Unexplored Paths

Chapters

Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 18
Chapter 19
Chapter 20
Chapter 21
Chapter 22
Chapter 23
Chapter 24
Chapter 25
Chapter 27
Chapter 28
Chapter 29
Chapter 30
Chapter 31
Chapter 32
Chapter 33
Chapter 34
Chapter 35
Chapter 36
Chapter 37
Chapter 38
Chapter 39
Chapter 40
Chapter 41
Chapter 42
Chapter 43
Chapter 44
Chapter 45
Chapter 46
Chapter 47
Chapter 48
Chapter 49
Chapter 50
Chapter 51
Chapter 52
Chapter 54
Chapter 55
Chapter 56
Chapter 57
Chapter 58
Chapter 59
Chapter 60
Chapter 61
Chapter 62
Chapter 63
Chapter 64
Chapter 65
Chapter 66
Chapter 67
Chapter 68
Chapter 69
Chapter 70
Chapter 71
Chapter 72
Chapter 73
Chapter 74
Chapter 75
Chapter 76
Chapter 77
Chapter 78
Chapter 79
Chapter 81
Chapter 82
Chapter 83
Chapter 84
Chapter 1
Chapter 8
Chapter 26
Chapter 53
Chapter 80

Chapter 2

“So what was Dave like?”

Odio sighed as he twirled his thumbs “He was a gamer, played all sorts until I plucked him from this world” the spirit of hatred scratched his neck “not to mention a really understanding guy”

The therapist nodded “Just from what you told me, I can tell he must have made a huge influence on you” He smiled as he gained a grunt from the boy

“Yeah not to mention a few other beings” Odio sat up as he counted on his fingers “Me the spirit of hatred, he made me… welcome and accepted that I made mistakes”

“So who else did he influence?”

“Apart from Celestia?” Odio continued to count “A guard named Strong Shield, real tough nut” Odio rubbed a finger down over his left eye “Big scar across here and until recently was an emotionless drill sergeant”

The therapist quietly took notes as the boy talked

“There was a dragon called Adamas” Odio let out a small laugh, “Did you know that dragons become physically strong when they are greedy but magically adept when generous?” He looked over at the therapist before carrying on “Anyway… Dave showed him generosity and inspired the dragon to do the same, there is a group of dragons that do the same called the enlightened”

“Ghosts, ponies and dragons” The therapist raised an eyebrow in suspicion “Why do I get the feeling that something new is going to be brought up?”

“Ever heard of Changelings?” Odio waited for the therapist to respond with a shake of his head “Well they can take on the shape of anypony they like and they feed on… love” Odio gagged at the word “Such a useless emotion”

“How did Dave influence these… changelings?” The therapist made a quick note of the name before Odio could speak

Odio chuckled as he slouched back into the sofa and stared at the floor “He allowed their Queen… Chrysalis to harvest some love from him so she could feed her sister Princess Larva… needless to say some of that love would have gone into the egg sack which produces the changelings” Odio rubbed his hands together with a sly grin “Love is an emotion… just like hate”

Celestia awoke with a tear already sat in her eye, she sighed as she wiped it away. She had shed enough tears already. The moon was nearing the horizon as Celestia climbed out of bed and walked over to her desk. She pushed her royal regalia aside as she pulled out a wooden jewellery box from the back of the desk.

The top of the box was covered in a thick layer of dust and a small lock held the lid shut. Celestia’s horn glowed and the lock clicked open. She put the lock aside as she lifted the lid, the stench of stale air attacked her nostrils. But the trinkets inside caused her to let out a sigh which cleared the dust from the air

She pushed aside the small watch with a silver and golden back, the hands inside ticked quietly as the princess removed the only other item. A silver bracelet that housed a deep blue sapphire, the bracelet rested perfectly on Celestia’s hoof as she slipped it on

“Funny how dreams make you become sentimental” Celestia smiled as she rubbed the silver with her other hoof “But why is Dave haunting my dreams now?” her humming didn’t last long as a knock came from her door

The door opened nervously as Nurse Redheart stepped in with a small bag “Hello Princess Celestia” she bowed deeply until Celestia indicated for her to rise. Simultaneously the princess received the urge to move the sun above the horizon before quickly fulfilling her duty

“Well I guess we could say good morning” Celestia smiled but her eyebrow rose in curiosity “But may I ask why you are here so early in the morning?”

The white mare shuffled her hooves as she set her bag down “Oh… well I was supposed to give you a check up and see how things are going” The nurse bowed in respect “But if you would prefer, I could come back at a later time”

Celestia shook her head “I’m sorry, I must have forgotten all about it” She trotted over to a white sofa and laid down on her back. The nurse brought her bag over as she sat down near the large bulge on Celestia’s belly

“Urgh I hate putting these on,” Nurse Redheart grumbled as she pulled out a stethoscope and struggled to use her hooves to put them in her ears. When she finally got the earplugs in she used her teeth to move the stethoscope over the white fur that covered the princess’ body

Celestia rested her head on the armrest of the sofa, her eyes fell shut as she kept her breathing as slow as possible to make the nurse’s job easier. Her curiosity made her eyes open to look at the nurse as she made a small murmur. The white earth pony indicated her eyes to the stethoscope and Celestia nervously understood

Her horn glowed as she used her magic to remove the earplugs from the nurse’s ears and over to her own. As the earplugs finally rested in her ears, she shuddered as she heard the soft beating of the baby’s heart. Her smile suddenly sprang to her face as she looked at Nurse Redheart

“You are very lucky” The nurse smiled but her face dropped as she looked away from the princess’ face and towards her flank “Oh my…” she gasped

Celestia’s face froze in horror “What is it?” Her heart began to beat out of her chest as she struggled to see past her pregnant belly. She didn’t have time to ask again as Nurse Redheart darted to the bedroom door and yanked it open

“Get Princess Luna and start taking Princess Celestia to the medical wing” The nurse frowned at the guards as they exchanged confused glances “NOW!” She yelled in irritation and the guards hurried away as the nurse rushed back to the princess

The princess’ face was now showing her irritation “Why did you yell at my guards?” She growled as she tried to look down again “And what is the matter?” She stared at the earth pony until she sighed

“Your water has broken” Nurse Redheart watched as Celestia’s face suddenly flipped from annoyance to horror “We have to get you into the medical wing” She allowed the princess a moment to absorb the information before forcibly dragging her to her feet “Come on, I’m not carrying you the entire way!”

Celestia’s mouth flapped around before finally screaming in the Royal Canterlot voice “I’M IN LABOUR?”

Meanwhile…

The skeleton managed to pick the final bits of dirt out from the back of his skull before looking up at the mountain before it. The castle clung proudly to the side of the mountain as the skeleton began his ascent. It started at a fast pace, the small finger holes were easier to grasp with the thin bones that made its hand

“I’M IN LABOUR?”

The sudden loud yell from the princess of the sun caused the very mountain itself to shake violently. The skeleton shook and the bones bounced against each other making a loud rattling noise. As the shaking stopped, the skeleton noticed it was travelling downwards at and alarming speed. Looking at it’s wrists it realized that its hands had broken off and were still clutching the mountain above it

A few minutes later…

The skeleton finally dragged itself onto a balcony, the mixture of dirt lodged in some joints and the large teeth marks that were the only evidence that a timber wolf had stolen the skeleton’s leg. The skeleton now brushed itself down before sneaking into the room behind the balcony doors

It stepped into the throne room, the guards were absent and the golden throne sat empty. The skeleton hurried over to the large doors before peaking out. The corridor was empty, the only thing that filled the white corridor was the sun streaming in through the windows.

The skeleton ran down the corridor, nervously stopping anytime it heard a noise or spotted a guard or servant going through a door. As the bones ran along it was forced to dart into a room in search of a hiding place. The room it had dived into happened to be a kitchen, the ponies on their way had to be the chefs. The skeleton quickly disassembled itself and threw its bones into different spots before the hands crawled away and hid amongst the pots and pans

As the door swung open a pair of chefs wandered in. One was a dark blue Pegasus mare, her mane was placed in a ponytail and her cutie mark was a spatula, the pony following her was an orange stallion unicorn, his mane was short and ruffled but his cutie mark of a chopping knife strangely suited him

“All I’m saying is that birth is a beautiful thing” The mare sighed happily at first as she sat down on an uncomfortable stool, before she could look down her attention shot to her laughing companion

“Beautiful?” The unicorn chuckled “There is screaming, tears, blood and sometimes the baby has one of those ugly faces that makes you want to slap the mother for creating something so disgusting” the stallion went over to a salad bowl and blindly threw some ingredients in “Why do you care anyway?”

The mare shrugged “I suppose that I was thinking about my love life” She sighed as she drew small circles on the work surface with a hoof. The stallion looked away from her and down at the salad bowl. Inside was a skull with olives for eyes and lettuce for hair. The stallion screamed as pair of hands reached out and joined it

The stallion’s scream was enough for the mare to snap out of her daydream. She saw the terrified unicorn and suddenly remembered how uncomfortable her stool was. Looking down her jaw dropped as she realized she was sat on a ribcage being held up by a pair of legs. She did not have time to shriek as her friend tackled her and rushed her into the store cupboard

“What the hay was that?” The pegasi panted as the unicorn shut the door and sat by her side. The pair flinched or let out a small squeak as they heard clanging of pots and pans. The mare suddenly wrapped her hooves around the stallion’s neck and pulled his in for a kiss

The unicorn’s eyes shot open once again as his hooves flapped uselessly above his head. As he pulled away, he took a few quick breaths before gasping “And what the hay was that?”

The mare cocked her head to the door “Do you want to die a virgin?” her raised eyebrow was suddenly dropped as the stallion closed the gap between their mouths again. Outside the store cupboard, the skeleton shook his skull to get all the fruit and veg out of the brain cavity before putting it back onto his shoulders. It nervously shuffled its feet as it heard low moaning from the storeroom and decided to make a timely retreat. As it stepped out of the kitchen, its head turned in all directions as a pain filled scream rushed down the hallways. It took off at full sprint towards the noise

Chapter 3

“So why are you here?”

Odio shrugged “That is a bit vague” he held up his arms “You could be asking ‘why am I on earth and not mars’ for all I know”

The therapist rolled his eyes “No, I mean why did you break into my house and start talking to me?”

“Oh that” Odio chuckled “You are a therapist and I wanted to talk to someone who wouldn’t judge me” He checked his fingernails for dirt as the therapist rubbed his eyes

“Just because I listen doesn’t mean I have tolerance for criminals” The therapists voice was agitated as he looked at the clock again “There has to be a reason for you to break into a man’s house during dinner”

Odio scratched his head “Well I needed to get a lot of my chest and I don’t like confession boxes in churches” He sighed as he tapped his fingers together “the sofa is much more comfortable here”

“But you proceed to tell me a very ludicrous story about unicorns and dragons” The therapist stood with a smug grin “I will have you know that I rang the police and my notes will make sure that you go to a very nice, padded cell”

Odio broke into laugher “Have you learned nothing from what I said?” He stood up, grabbing his bag of video games along the way as he marched over to the window. The blue flashing lights of a police car flashed in his swirling eyes as he removed a detonator “I plan for everything!”

He squeezed the detonator and the car next to the police car exploded, forcing the police car off the road and into a lamppost. Odio chuckled as he turned around and smiled at the terrified therapist

“W-why are you doing this?” The therapist nervously sat down and picked up his clipboard and pen. Odio returned to his sofa and laid his head back

“I would love to say I aim to control this world or throw it into complete disarray but…” Odio shrugged “In all honesty I wanted to play the new Halo game before I went back”

Princess Luna easily outran the guards that brought the news of Celestia’s situation to her. She sprinted down the hallways, hoping to find her sister along the way. She dashed around a pair of chefs that stood outside the kitchen with large grins across their faces.

Her heart raced as she managed to hear a suppressed scream. Her head angled downwards as she ran faster, her horn cutting a path through the air as she turned the corners. As Luan ran, she noticed a small green blur go around the corner she headed towards

She dismissed the spots of green as her attention focused on the final corner ahead, as she turned she saw the large group of guards standing outside the medical wing. As she approached they separated and allowed her onto the room where Celestia was crying out

She rushed to her sister’s side, giving a quick glance to Nurse Redheart that worked alone below the sheets that covered Celestia. Luna placed her hoof on Celestia’s shoulder as sat near her head

“It’s all going to be ok,” Luna whispered reassuringly as she held her sister’s hoof. She nodded to Nurse Redheart before whispering more reassuring words to her larger sister “This will be over shortly and then we will have a new addition to the family” her smile wavered as her eyes opened “I’m going to be an aunt!” She gasped

Nurse Redheart looked over from her position “You only just realized?” Her confused state was broken as Celestia’s loud moan made her return to her duty. The princesses held each other, Celestia pressed her face into Luna’s chest as her pain filled noises increased

“How is it going?” Luna asked as she saw Nurse Redheart wipe some sweat from her head. The white earth pony grumbled as she looked up at the princesses

“It is a bit hard with just me!” She complained but she shook her head before looking back with determined eyes “We have a small problem… I can sort it but it will hurt” the pony looked up at the princess of the sun as her sweat covered face looked down at her

“What kind of problem?” She managed to pant before another surge of pain pulsed through her “Is the baby ok?”

Nurse Redheart sighed, “The umbilical cord has caught around the baby’s horn, this is normal but in your case it could be very harmful” the nurse looked back at the princesses “Fixing it would require me pushing the baby back slightly to untangle it”

Celestia shuddered before nodding “A-alright, do it” She commanded as she clutched Luna again, her eyes shut out of fear. She felt a tear come to her eye as she whispered, “I wish Dave was here”

As the whisper left her lips and Nurse Redheart was about to attempt her painful solution, the doors swung open and a skeleton stumbled in, a pile of guards left behind in the corridor. It looked up to see the confused stares of the princesses and the nurse

Nurse Redheart managed to force herself to talk “What the hay is that?” She gawped as the living bones moved closer. Its bony hands outstretched towards the princess of the sun

Luna growled at the intruder and jumped into its path, her horn lowered and glowing “What are you?” She questioned with anger in her voice

“Dave?” Celestia gasped and the skeleton looked over in response “Dave… you came back” she smiled happily as the pain subsided from her body. Luna stepped aside and allowed the skeleton to move to the white alicorn’s side

As Celestia smiled, the skeleton held her hoof and its hollow eye sockets were strangely comforting to the princess. Her smile turned to a snarl as she hoof-slapped it’s jaw off and attempted to strike the skeleton from her position on the bed

“YOU DID THIS TO ME!” She yelled, her eyes full of rage as the skeleton retreated and reclaimed his lower jaw

Nurse Redheart chuckled as she watched the princess break down into tears “I was wondering how long it would take for her hormones to kick in” She looked at the nervous skeleton “She should be ok now” she reassured before returning to her work

The skeleton peeked down to see what the nurse was doing before regretting the decision and leaping to Celestia’s side again. She wrapped her hooves around his skull and squeezed tightly as the nurse began her attempt to free the baby from its prison

Luna smiled as Celestia whispered to the skull between her hooves but her gaze shifted to the rest of the body that was leaning against the wall in a relaxed fashion. She shook her head as she returned to letting Celestia know that she wasn’t alone buy resting a hoof on her shoulder again

“Almost there princess!” Nurse Redheart cheered reassuringly “The horn is out, so is the head… wings” She looked up at the princess “Come on! One last push!”

Celestia let out a final scream before her body went limp, her mane and fur was drenched in sweat and her head hit the pillow below it like a brick. Her hooves released the skull that the skeleton quickly caught and replaced on his neck

Luna and the skeleton moved to Celestia and smiled as she let out a small grin. The skeleton nervously rose as a baby’s cries came from behind it. It turned to see Nurse Redheart’s eyes looking happily at him as she cradled something in her hooves

“Princess Celestia, Dave…meet your son” she beamed happily as the skeleton slowly inched around to stand next to the nurse. In her hooves was a grey alicorn, kicking his front hooves out as his face clenched to give out maximum volume to his screams

The baby was already the size of Applebloom and her friends, its wingspan would certainly put Scootaloo to shame and his long pointed horn looked more ferocious than Sweetie Belle’s. His mane was messy and just dangled past his ears. Considering he was screaming and thrashing around, he still looked very cute

The skeleton moved a hand to the baby, only for his finger to brush against the grey horn and a sudden flash of light to send him across the hospital wing. Crashing into a bed a few rows along, the clamoring and crashing noises of medical equipment masked the sound of the baby suddenly silencing to watch the destruction

A few squelching noises replaced the noise of the crying baby, the skeleton's hand appeared to grab the top of the flipped bed. The white bone slowly turned red, a few wires stretched across the knuckles and wrapped around the thin fingers. The new muscle changed shape before a thin layer of skin dragged itself along the hand and slowly finished making the pale hand that disappeared from view again

“Urgh I knew I was bad with kids but what the hell?” Dave groaned as he used a bed to help stand, his skeleton was now buried behind muscles and organs, all wrapped in layers of skin, his new and refreashed body free for everypony to see. The human looked over at the bed where Celestia was smiling at him before her gaze dropped and her face blushed

Luna also joined in the blushing while she covered the baby’s eyes with a long dark wing. Nurse Redheart merely tilted her head to the right as she had a good view from her height. Dave followed where their eyes were looking.

They were staring at his exposed crotch. Dave blushed as he pulled his trench coat around himself and avoided eye contact with everypony but Celestia. During his journey around the castle he obviously forgot that the only piece of clothing he had anymore was the dragonscale trenchcoat

“You always knew how to make an entrance” Celestia chuckled weakly as her head rested on the soft pillow. Dave hurried back over to Nurse Redheart and to the grey alicorn that was his son

“Well I had to make up for lost time” he smirked as he reached out and took the baby from Nurse Redheart and cradled it in his arms. It placed a grey hoof into its mouth as it stared up at Dave with large eyes

Nurse Redheart quietly left the princesses and Dave to meet the newest addition to the family. Dave passed the baby to Celestia as she rubbed her nose against its head

“He is adorable!” Luna squealed as she got a closer look “Well I had no idea we were that cute eight million years ago!” she smiled happily as Dave glared at her

“Thank you for reminding me how old you both are” Dave rolled his eyes back to his child “So what do we name him anyway?” his eyes met Celestia’s and Luna’s blank faces and an awkward silence filled the room only to be broken by the newborn blowing a raspberry into his dad’s face

Chapter 4

“But how do you plan to get back?” The therapist sat nervously in his chair as Odio paced around the room

“Well some could say I am already there” he smirked as he walked behind the therapist “Lurking around and waiting for the opportunity to put my new plan to good use” He walked over to the sofa and collapsed onto his back, head on a large cushion

The therapist sighed as her looked outside and watched the flashing blue lights from the police car suddenly stop “So what is this new plan?” he glared at the smug boy’s smirk

“To get some power back… hatred to be exact” He rolled his eyes over to the therapist “And what gets more hate than war?”

“How about Grayson?” Dave scratched his head as he looked at the colt in Celestia’s hooves “He is grey and he is a son”

Celestia shook her head “It doesn’t seem right” She rubbed her nose against the colt’s chest causing it to giggle loudly “What about… Sky Light?” she sighed as Dave shook his head

“Oh I know!” Dave grinned happily “Barry!”

Luna burst out laughing at the suggestion “Barry sounds nothing like a royal name!” She wiped a tear from her eye “You might as well call him Dirt Digger!”

Celestia rolled her eyes as she rested her head on Dave’s shoulder “I guess that Barry is a human name” She rose her eyes to see Dave nod gently “Well I suppose we could give him a human name… his father is human after all”

Dave scratched behind the grey colt’s ear and its head craned around to pull the finger into his mouth and began to attempt chewing it. When that failed he wrapped his short hooves around Dave’s hand and hugged it

Luna continued to go “Aww” Every time the newborn colt did something new. Except when he got over excited and threw up into the dark princess’ mane. She spent well over an hour cleaning herself before returning

“Argh why is this so difficult?” Dave groaned as he moved away from the bed and leaned back in a chair. The colt panicked as its father left his view and began flapping his wings wildly. Celestia failed to catch him as he flew into the air and dive-bombed towards Dave, wrapping his hooves around his neck

“AWW!” Luna almost fainted as Dave hugged the colt back and she began to bounce on the spot “I don’t care what anypony says, I am foalsitting the life outta that!”

Dave raised an eyebrow “Have you learned to speak different since I left?” Dave chuckled as Luna frowned at him “Oh I am terribly sorry your majesty” He playfully teased

Luna was about to respond before Celestia held a hoof up “If you both start arguing I will send you both to the moon until you sort it out” She nervously giggled under the sudden glares she received but the tension was broken as the newborn let out a loud yawn

“Aww” Luna smiled again whilst Dave rolled his eyes

Dave handed the colt back to Celestia before standing up, his trench coat was closed, hiding his dignity “So what could we call him?” Dave scratched his head in wonder “Something cool, something royal… I managed to name a dragon but not my own son, how the hell did I manage that?”

Luna gasped, “That reminds me” She beamed at Dave “Adamas is stopping by in a few days as part of his time off!”

“Adamas?” Dave’s face lit up “How has he been?” His eyes narrowed as Luna’s smile turned into a suppressed giggle “And what do you mean time off?”

Celestia answered for her little sister “Adamas set up an embassy dedicated to bringing peace to all life” She grinned slightly as Luna began to laugh “He has a female companion that ordered him to take a day off after the… zebra incident”

Dave rose an eyebrow “Zebra incident?” a smile came to his face “What happened?” his eyes shifted to Luna as she calmed down

“Adamas went to meet a pair of rivalling zebra tribes that have been fighting for decades” Luna giggled into her hooves before continuing “These zebra’s have never seen diamonds or a dragon capable of flight, so when he showed up in his indestructible glory they began to worship him!”

Dave burst out laughing “Adamas being worshipped by zebra’s?” He laughed as he wiped a tear from his eye “I would have loved to hear all the rhymes about how much better he is than them”

Celestia nodded before her face became neutral again “But of course he stopped it when they brought in the sacrifice” she sighed before looking down to where her child previously rested “Where is the baby?” She asked in a shocked tone

Dave scanned the room, only the dividing curtains at the other side of the room stopped him from seeing everything “I have no idea” He replied in a growlingly concerned tone

“BWWWAAAA!” The colt cheered as he popped out of Celestia’s mane and grabbed her horn, bottom half still submerged in Celestia’s flowing mane as he snuggled against the white horn

“AWWWWW!” Luna literally fell down from the amount of cuteness being fired her way. She rolled on the floor before pushing her self back up into a seat “I have got to play hide and seek!”

Dave scratched his chin “He err… just appeared from nowhere” an idea crossed his mind as Celestia gained a smile of her own “Houdini!” He cheered but only gained in losing Celestia’s smile “Fine what is your idea?”

“I was thinking… Noxporta” Celestia looked up and saw the colt attempting to chew her horn. She looked back at the indecisive human “We could call him Nox for short”

Dave scratched his chin “Nox… Nox” he mumbled in thought

“Who’s there?” Luna managed to sneak in before Dave could continue. She shied away as Dave gave her an unimpressed look

Dave turned back to the colt “Damn I wish I had Google translate” He groaned “Then I could type in random words until I got something cool” He shrugged “But Nox sounds good, and we can yell his full name when he is in trouble”

Celestia smiled as Dave removed the colt from her flowing mane. His wings flapping until he was against his father’s chest. He looked back at his mother before snuggling against Dave and letting out a loud yawn

“Aww” Luna sighed again but her calm face changed when Dave walked over to her and held the baby close. Dave did not have to say anything as he indicated to the colt in his arms “Are you sure?”

Celestia nodded “Of course, you are just as much a part of his life as we are” She smiled as Luna held out her hooves and allowed Dave to pass him over. Luna failed to hold back a squeak as Nox rubbed against her chest

Dave smiled as he watched Luna nuzzle Nox, the colt responded by grabbing her nose and trying to bite it. The human smiled as the room fell into a comfortable silence. Except for a bleep coming from behind the dividing curtain on the other side of the room

“Hey” Dave looked over with a frown “What’s behind there?” He pointed to the curtains causing Celestia and Luna to exchanged worried looks. He stood up to go and inspect the strange noise but was stopped by Celestia’s hoof

“Wait, why don’t we take Nox to go see Twilight Sparkle and the others?” Her smile wavered as Dave looked back to the curtains. She sighed as she let Dave walk over to the curtains, his footsteps barely louder than the sound of a heartbeat monitor

As Dave reached the white curtain he stopped, his eyes wondered over to Celestia and Luna. Their sympathetic faces only made his heart tug sharply as he pulled back the curtain and saw the unicorn

Strong Shield lay on the bed, his black fur and greying mane were barely visible against the various tubes and wires that travelled from various machines into a hole in his side. Dave collapsed by the ex-guard’s bedside and dropped his head into his hands

Dave struggled to keep his breaths normal as he looked at the unicorn’s face. His trademark scar over his left eye was still the first thing Dave noticed as he looked over the still figure of the pony

“How long?” Dave growled “How long has he been like this?” His eyes shot to the two princesses as they avoided his gaze

Celestia finally worked up the courage to respond, “Ever since you left,” She sighed “That wound he took protecting you was… different”

Dave climbed to his feet and glared at the machinery “This was my fault, if only I had the damn courage to fight Odio I could have…” He was cut off as Nurse Redheart returned beside him

“You are his only family, even if it is through adoption” The white mare looked up “I have kept him stabilized for months now” She placed a reassuring hoof on Dave’s arm “But it can’t go on, it isn’t fair keeping him like this”

Dave finally broke into tears as he dropped to his knees “No, I won’t kill him” He took a few breaths to calm down before glaring at the nurse “How do we help him get better?”

“That is what the problem is Dave” Luna sighed “The wound was enchanted so that the pony inflicted is keeping up a spell that prevents healing” She cradled Nox in her hooves before passing him back to Celestia “He is killing himself unless he wakes up”

“And the only way that will happen is if we turn off the machines” Nurse Redheart sighed “He would have mere moments to remove the enchantment” Her eyes looked over the patient and the machines before moving back to Dave “Don’t let him suffer”

Dave looked at the mares around the room before finally looking at his son in Celestia’s hooves “Great… this day just got a whole lot worse” He sighed as he looked at the machines and saw a red button beneath a plastic flap

His fingers reached out and lifted the flap. His eyes moved over to Strong Shield as his finger rested against the button. Luna and Celestia huddled around Nox as Dave took a final deep breath and pressed the button

Nurse Redheart shuddered as all the equipment went silent and Strong Shield’s body shook. His eye cracked open and swirled towards Dave before coming still. Dave held firm as he looked into Strong Shield’s motionless eye

“I’m sorry dad” Dave sighed as he leaned forwards and hugged the unicorn “You would have made a strange and wonderful grandfather” He rested his head against Strong Shield’s mane as he felt the body beneath him relax

Dave began to pull away but was sent flying as a pair of black hooves bucked him in the throat “Strange my flank!” Strong Shield groaned as he held the wound in his side “And you didn’t have to suffocate me!”

“Dad!” Dave ignored the pain in his throat as he hugged the unicorn again “You had me terrified for a minute” He pulled back as he saw the unimpressed eye “So we are back to emotionless eh?”

“Emotions are an exploitable weakness” His eye moved over when a grey colt jumped onto his lap “And who is this?” His eye widened as he saw the wings and horn

Dave chuckled as he rubbed the colt’s mane “This is Nox! Your grandson… kinda” The unicorn rolled his eye as he accepted a hug from the baby alicorn

“AWWWWWWW!”

Chapter 5

“How?” Was all the therapist could manage to gasp, “How can you get back to Equestria and start a war?”

Odio groaned as he rubbed his neck, “War is imminent on so many levels at the moment” He smiled as the therapist continued to take notes “Some might be unexpected, some… small situations could yield large consequences”

“So you are going back to get more hate energy” The therapist nervously gulped down some water before continuing his notes “But it has supposedly been almost four months, how can you be sure you are travelling in the right direction?”

Odio smirked “Because I am already on Equestria… I’m just waiting to be released” His grin extended as more flashing lights appeared outside the house “Finally, the show is here”

Strong Shield bickered with Nurse Redheart as he attempted to get up. The nurse refused until the unicorn groaned in defeat. The white mare shook her head before trotting over to Celestia

“So Princess Celestia, when are you going to feed your baby?” The nurse smiled as Celestia cradled Nox “You do remember how I said you should do it?”

Celestia nodded “Yes, I am just a bit weary from the birth” Her smile grew as Dave returned from Strong Shield’s bed and sat next to her. She sighed before moving Nox down to allow him to feed

Dave’s reassuring smile disappeared as he watched Nox feed on Celestia’s milk “Wow… Is it wrong that I am slightly jealous?” His cocked head was slapped up by an agitated Nurse Redheart “I mean… it’s a beautiful thing”

The white earth pony shook her head “Between the princess and that stubborn unicorn, I have completely worn myself out” she rubbed her tired eyes “Nopony minds if I have a few hours sleep do they?”

“Of course not” Luna smiled “We know where to find you if we need you” The princess of the night waited until the nurse left before turning to Celestia “So would you like me to take over royal duties for a few days?”

Celestia shook her head “No, just give me a day to recover then everything should return to normal” She turned to look at Dave “You can look after Nox can’t you?”

Dave smirked “Sure, I can take care of him during busy days” He looked over at Strong Shield across the room “But I won’t let granddad make him a guard yet!”

The black unicorn groaned, “Don’t call me granddad!” He rolled his eye “You make me sound old!”

Dave chuckled as Nox finished feeding and jumped into Celestia’s mane. Celestia giggled as his head pooped out with a yawn, his head rested on Celestia’s horn. Celestia carefully leaned down to give Dave a kiss on his cheek as the grey alicorn in her mane slept

Luna smiled before quietly leaving, her face dropped as she reached the door. Strong Shield shook his head as he looked at the happy family “Can you go talk to Luna?” He glared at Dave

Dave looked bewildered before rubbing his head “Is she still… you know?” his gaze moved back to Celestia who simply shrugged

“She has kept her emotions under better control than I have” Celestia sighed “If she does still have any feelings towards you then I suggest you make you position clear” She carefully sat up as she looked at her human “I will be back in my quarters with Nox when you are finished”

Dave gasped “Clear?” He began walking to the door “I told her a million times that it was over” he mumbled a few curses to himself before chasing after the other princess “See you in a bit”

His quick pace allowed him to easily catch up with Luna. Her ears pricked up as she heard Dave’s feet running across the marble floor “Hello Dave” She said in a happy tone

“Hey Luna” Dave caught his breath before continuing “umm… I was wondering, are we cool?”

Luna turned to face Dave with a stare “How do you mean?” Her eyes were completely neutral, tipping towards happy or distraught depending on what Dave said next

“I mean, do you still have a crush on me or?” Dave could not speak again as Luna lunged forwards with her horn lowered. He lunged backwards avoiding the dark point

“Crush?” Luna snarled with her eyes full of pain “I loved you! It was no silly fillies’ game” her breathing shuddered as she stood upright again “You have some nerve showing up again”

“Excuse me?” Dave responded with mild anger “I come back and you think it was a bad thing?” He glared at Luna as she shook her head

“You weren’t there when Celestia spent those nights crying herself to sleep” Luna turned away “You weren’t there when I cried myself to sleep either”

Dave rolled his eyes “I chose Celestia because you gave me up, you can’t blame me for something you did”

“I fought to get you back, Celestia didn’t!” Luna took a few breaths to calm herself before looking back at Dave “I don’t hate you or my sister, but I hate myself for letting you go and I will spend the rest of my life trying to win you back”

Dave shrugged “Well good luck with the self pity, let me know when you can talk to me without thinking about how you can steal me from Celestia” He turned on his heel before walking back down the corridor to reach the steps that would take him to Celestia’s quarters

As Dave reached the golden doors that were accompanied by two unicorn guards, he nodded before walking in. As he closed the door behind him he scratched his head

“Did they ever consider I may be a trick?” He looked around for Celestia as he scratched his head “Where are you anyway?”

Before Dave could listen for a response he heard a loud splash coming from the bathroom. As he stepped in he was instantly greeted by a wave of water hitting his face. Celestia held back a laugh whilst Nox swam around the shallower waters of the small pool

Dave shook his head before opening his eyes “Well that was one way to say hello” He smiled as water continued to drip off his chin “So what are the plans for this week?”

Celestia swam over to the waterfall that flowed from the ceiling and began to bathe her wings “Well I suppose you would like to meet the residents of Ponyville again wouldn’t you?”

Dave chuckled as he felt the scales of his coat scratch against his back “Yeah I could buy some more clothes from Rarity while I am there” He looked back at Nox who was blowing raspberries into the water “And I am sure they would love to see this guy”

“I’m sure they would” Celestia sighed “And Twilight could study how Alicorns grow” She thought to herself before looking back at Dave’s troubled face “What’s wrong?”

Dave looked back to the princess before shrugging “I am just a bit shook up about how things have turned out” He plucked Nox out of the water before playfully rubbing his chest “I mean we have this little one, Strong Shield is on the mend and everything else is… alright”

“Don’t worry I’m sure that you will get into trouble soon” Celestia playfully winked at Dave before washing her mane “You can go see Strong Shield for bit if you like”

Dave put Nox back into the water before stepping for the door “See you later then?”

“Yes and don’t be too late” She sent him another, more seductive wink “You don’t want to miss the treat I have for you”

“Oh, well then I shall be but a moment” Dave smiled before reluctantly leaving

Meanwhile…

Strong Shield rested his eye while he attempted to sleep, the dull pain in his side was the only reminder that he was in the hospital wing rather than his bunk in the guard barracks. His breathing was slow and calm as he listened to the silence in the room

Groaning he opened his eye, scanning the room. The places where there should be a faint noise or a figment of his imagination were replaced with silence. The lack of noise made Strong Shield look around with greater care, glaring at beds or corners of the room

“Well I must say this is a surprise,” A soft female voice whispered next to Strong Shield’s ear. The unicorn froze as his eye rolled over to look at the mare sitting next to him. A short dark mane with a grey streak accompanied her dark lavender fur

Strong Shield looked past her gentle purple eyes at a freakishly large earth pony that rested against a wall, his front hooves were crossed while his eyes stared at Shield, daring him to make a move. His navy body helped conceal his shaved head leaving only stubble where his mane should be

“Why aren’t you both dead?” Strong Shield’s eye focused on the mare next to him while his mind searched the room. A small tray of surgical equipment rested next to the machinery that once supported Strong Shield’s life

“You should have checked for bodies rather than dispose of a bad guy” The Pegasus smirked “And don’t think about using that scalpel” She smirked as Strong Shield suppressed a flinch “Don’t forget we are better than you”

As her smug smirk grew until Strong Shield smirked in response “Don’t forget I beat you both thirty years ago” he responded before lifting his head and using his magic to launch his pillow at the pegasi. In one sweeping motion, the Pegasus used an armoured wing to slice the pillow and rise into the air

Strong Shield looked through the sudden cloud of feathers to see the earth pony kick one of his hooves into a bed, causing it to hurtle towards the black unicorn. Strong Shield groaned as he dived out of the way and onto his wounded side

“We aren’t as young as we once were” The Pegasus mocked “And you aren’t in the best of health,” her smile snapped to a snarl as she put a hoof on Shield’s throat “Now you have something that belongs to us”

Strong Shield managed to spit before a large hoof pushed down on his wound. The earth pony twisted his hoof slowly before looking in Strong Shield’s bloodshot eye

“The key” He whispered, “We know where Puppetmaster’s vault is but you have hidden the key very well” His smile lessened as Strong Shield struggled against the hoof on his throat

“What the fuck is going on here?” Dave gasped as he stepped in to see a Pegasus and earth pony pinning down Strong shield, a bed smashed through machinery and feathers falling through the air

Strong Shield looked over at Dave before yelling the few words he could manage “Dave RUN!”

Before Dave could react, the Pegasus rolled towards him before applying her rear hooves to Dave’s chin, sending him up to allow the earth pony to follow through with an elbow drop that slammed Dave into the ground

Dave coughed and wheezed as he climbed to his feet, using the wall to support himself “Ok… Dad who the fuck are these two?” He asked as the intruders did some stretches

Strong Shield climbed to his hooves and started his own stretches “The hag is called Flux and the product of cross breeding is called Battering Ram” He looked at the wound in his side before continuing to stretch “They used to work with me during my undercover days”

“Great so we have two evil versions of you?” Dave shrugged as the Pegasus moved so she was opposite Shield whilst Ram stood opposite Dave. His head would have allowed him to stare Celestia in the eye without any difficulty “Hello big guy”

“One of my grandfathers was a buffalo while the other was an ox” He chuckled “Let’s just say that I am complete strength in pony form” His smile grew as Dave braced himself “Just a friendly warning, I am going to break you”

Strong Shield glanced at Dave “Just keep alive until I can help” He shook hiss body before taking a few breaths “seriously though, he WILL break you”

“Can I call him RAAM? Or Bane?” Dave smirked “Just for my benefit?”

Flux shook her wings, the metal that ran along the front sprouted blades at each end “So Shield opened his heart a little? Hard to believe” she sighed

Battering Ram smirked “Yeah, he always was the more detached in our unit” He took a few deep breaths before his body went still and his eyes glared at Dave’s chest. Strong Shield and Flux also did similar things as the room took an eerie silence and left Dave as the only one making a sound

“Ok I am slightly scared” Dave gulped as the tower of muscle smirked at him

Chapter 6

Odio stepped outside, dragging the therapist by the back of his shirt. He smirked at the few police cars around the building, the police had their weapons pointed at the dark haired boy as the therapist was thrown to the floor

“Good evening officers” Odio bowed “Is there anything I can help you with?”

“Lay down on your front and put your hands on your head!” An officer yelled as he pulled the hammer back on his gun “And drop the bag!”

Odio clutched his video games close to his chest “Ok I was planning on making this memorable but now I am just going to leave” He looked up at the sky and held his hand over his eyes “In about thirty seconds”

The cops all exchanged glances before one put his gun in his holster and stepped forwards “Just calm down boy” He said calmly as Odio glared at him “We are only trying to help”

“How can you help something that is already perfect?” Odio cheered as he held his hands up to the sky “Equestria here I come!”

As the words escaped his mouth, a large bolt of lightning struck a police car as a beam of red light touched the ground. Odio’s smile dipped as he continued to hold his hands in the air, the red light a few feet to his right

“Damn, I was hoping that was going to be more awesome” Odio sighed as he shuffled into the light “Alright let’s try again” He cleared his throat “Equestria here I co…” He was cut off as the light raced back into the sky, taking the spirit of hatred with it

One cop walked over to where the boy once stood up and picked up the bag that Odio used to clutch. Carefully he opened it and peeked in

“Oh cool Halo 4!”

Strong Shield returned the blank stare that Flux gave him. Their eyes remained focused on each other as their breathing slowed and they took their positions. Strong Shield angled his wounded side towards the Pegasus and stood with his head held high

Flux lowered her body and spread her limbs out, wrapping one of her wings around her body and rested the other along her back. She stopped a few inches off the ground before a smile crept across her face

Battering Ram allowed his eyes to close and his head to drop as his muscles tensed and loosened. His eyes opened to stare at Dave before his mouth opened enough for Dave to see him use his tongue to remove some gum from the top of his mouth. He chewed as his front right hoof lifted up from the ground

Dave meanwhile licked his lips nervously as the three ponies seemed to stop breathing and stared at their chosen targets. The human shrugged as he kept his left hand out with his right fist beside his face “So umm… go?”

Battering Ram shot forwards, his right hoof planted itself in Dave’s left palm, his other hoof grabbed around his waist. Dave’s locked elbow worked against him as the earth pony suddenly pushed with his hoof and dislocated Dave’s arm

Dave yelped but angrily attempted to punch Ram’s throat with his working arm. As the earth pony avoided the punch, his hoof around Dave’s waist travelled up his body and wrapped over Dave’s shoulder. All it took was a sharp twist of Ram’s body to break Dave’s shoulder and leave his other arm useless as well

Dave’s yell was cut short as Ram’s rear hoof kicked him in his throat, his arm still trapped in a one-hoof grasp. Battering Ram smirked as he released the human, allowing him to roll onto his back before dropping his two front hooves onto Dave’s chest, gaining a howl of pain

As the earth pony resumed chewing his gum, he looked over at the unicorn and Pegasus that were still having a stare-down. He used one hoof to brush Dave aside to a corner of the room before sitting down on one of the beds

“Well I am done with my warm up” Battering Ram chuckled as Dave rolled around the floor uselessly, “So how have you been Shield?”

The unicorn never removed his eyes from the Pegasus opposite “Since I left both of you to die in that burning building?” Strong Shield shrugged “Alright I guess”

“Bet you wish you checked for bodies” Flux smirked “but you had to be a good little soldier and catch the bag guy” her eyes moved down the unicorn’s body “So how was that boring life being a pathetic drill sergeant?”

“Sleep late on Sundays and get plenty of exercise” Strong Shield rolled his eye “So how has being dead been? Still following Puppetmaster’s ideals?”

“I think we have talked enough” Flux sighed “We can’t talk, we need the key and you know where it is” She lunged forwards, her loose wing extended and the bladed wing stopped beneath Strong Shield’s chin “Where is it?”

“Let’s just say I have my eye on it so you won’t get it” Strong Shield smirked “Also seeing you two again is… shocking” As his eye looked at Flux, his faintly glowing horn surged and the chest paddles attached to the machine behind him blasted the Pegasus away

Battering Ram chuckled “Wow Flux I would have thought you would have seen that coming”

“See this coming asshole!” Dave growled as he swung a food tray at the back of Ram’s head. The silver tray bounced off harmlessly and Ram stopped chewing “Um… sorry?”

The huge earth pony grumbled as he looked at Dave “I thought that the spirit that gave you your power left Equestria” He inspected Dave’s healing chest as the ribs slowly pushed his collapsed midsection back to normal

“Yeah he may have left a few bits and bobs” Dave smirked “Enough to kick the fuck out of you though” He ran towards Battering Ram, his fist held high and ready to counter any kicks or swipes

Battering Ram sighed as he let his body fall onto the bed, avoiding Dave’s clumsy punch. As the earth pony bounced back up he grabbed Dave and squeezed around his chest. The ribs and spine gave way as the earth pony finished crushing Dave

Ram opened his hooves and allowed Dave to flop to the floor. He continued to chew his gum as Dave barely managed to groan in pain

Flux lunged forwards, her bladed wing raced ahead of her at Strong Shield's chest. He responded by moving quickly to the side and grabbing the outstretched wing. Flux grinned as she used her other wing to support her body as she brought all her hooves up into Strong Shield's chin

The force made the unicorn release the wing as he flipped backwards. As he moved through the air, he extended his rear hooves so he kicked the Pegasus with the added help from his flip. The Pegasus rolled backwards but elegantly ended up on her hooves again as Strong Shield landed on his hooves as well

"You can still turn yourselves in" Strong Shield suggested as he wiped some blood from a cut on his chin. His eyes followed the Pegasus as she moved over to the tray of surgical equipment, using a wing to pick up a scalpel

“It was nice seeing you again” Flux smiled “But we have some other business to attend to” As she finished her sentence she spun and threw the scalpel at Strong Shield as Battering Ram suddenly charged

Strong Shield hopped to the side, his horn glowed as he snatched the scalpel from the air and changed its course to shoot for the charging earth pony. Battering Ram narrowly avoided the blade but kept charging at the unicorn. Strong Shield took advantage of Ram’s small course change by rolling at the last minute and using his hooves to throw Ram into the air

The combined speed from Ram’s charge and Shield’s throw ended up sending the earth pony out the window. Flux flew over to the window but quickly turned to blow a kiss at Strong Shield “See you soon Shield”

As Dave got to his feet he saw the Pegasus dive out of the window and out of sight “Did we win?” He coughed as his ribcage rearranged itself again

Strong Shield shook his head “No, they will be back and next time they wont mess around” The black unicorn’s legs wobbled before he collapsed. Dave hurried over to his side but was pushed away “I’m alright, just do one thing for me”

“What’s that?” Dave asked, he rubbed his chest to make sure it had healed before looking back at Strong Shield

“Keep this secret” Strong Shield glared “Don’t tell anypony about them or what happened” He groaned as he got to his hooves and nursed his wound “Don’t even think about them around Celestia, got it?”

Dave reluctantly nodded “So what are we going to do about them?” he asked as Strong Shield repaired a window, “I doubt we can go after them in your condition”

“Knowing them… they will come for us” Strong Shield stamped his hoof in anger “Why didn’t I check for bodies?” He growled to himself

Dave stood upright and looked at the broken beds and medical equipment around the room “Who the hell were they?” He scratched his head as he looked back at the unicorn

“They were the other part of my unit thirty years ago” He sighed “Flux was trained in deception, stealth and can use her wings for much more than flying” He used his magic to replace the beds “Battering Ram is a powerhouse, one grandparent was a buffalo one was a bull and the other two were earth ponies… through some strange match of genes he has become a earth pony based around strength”

“Big, let’s not forget big” Dave pointed out “So two earth ponies decided to mate outside of their species and their children mated to make him” He rubbed his arms “Well I hate his parents for even smiling at each other”

“One died in an accident and the other in childbirth” Strong Shield glared at Dave “He was an orphan his entire life” He returned to fixing the room “Needless to say the training we received was much greater than that of average guards because we went on missions that were… frowned upon”

“So you were part of a black-ops squad?” Dave smirked a little “You were a goddamn SPY!” A hoof closed his mouth as Strong Shield looked over at the door

“In a way yes” He groaned as Dave held in a happy grin “But it was dirty, corrupt and ultimately made me kill my only friends…” he looked out the window “or so I thought”

“Why would you want to kill them?” Dave asked, managing to suppress his smile

“Our ultimate goal was to defeat a stallion called Puppetmaster” Strong Shield rubbed his head as dark memories came back “Those two ended up joining him so I had to kill them as well”

Dave’s happiness faded as he saw Strong Shield’s disheartened face “Did you stop Puppetmaster?”

“Broken nose, fractured skull, snapped spine, pen in left eye, pencil through right eye, hung and stabbed” Strong Shield’s eye rolled over to look at Dave “I made sure he died and by the time I walked back into the barracks I was tired and my fur was stained in blood and ash”

“Oh…” Dave scratched the side of his head “You could have just said yes”

Chapter 7

Dave left Strong Shield to repair the rest of the medical wing as he walked back to Celestia’s quarters, his bare feet slapping against the cold floor as he hurried along

“I suppose having hooves would be helpful,” He groaned as he continued along the white corridors, his hands in his coat pockets. He looked out the window and saw the naked branches of trees, the leaves gone and the green grass was short

Dave assumed autumn was in its final stages but the way the sun sank below the horizon made him hum the entire way to Celestia’s quarters. As Dave walked up the stairs he occasionally looked around for any more intruders or the two that attacked in the medical wing

Finally, Dave walked into Celestia’s quarters and wandered over to the bed where Celestia was sleeping, Nox was sleeping in her mane. The soft flowing of Celestia’s mane accompanied Nox’s quiet snoring as Dave snuck under the bed covers

“Aaaand…” Dave removed his trench coat as he made himself more comfortable “Safe” He whispered as Nox and Celestia continued to sleep. As Dave closed his eyes he felt a pair of small hooves wrap around his neck

Dave cracked open an eye to see Nox crawl onto Dave’s chest and fall back asleep, with a smile Dave attempted to join him in dreamland. As he began to drift off to sleep, Dave felt a larger pair of hooves go around his neck and a soft nuzzle against his neck

Cracking his eye open again, Dave saw Celestia shuffle closer as she made herself comfortable again. Dave rolled his eye as he attempted to sleep “Finally, nothing bad is going to happen to me” he whispered thankfully

His smile disappeared as he remembered Strong Shield’s old colleagues were potentially going to hurt him. Dave gave a final sigh before managing to fall asleep

The next morning…

“You are definitely his father” Celestia smiled happily as she looked at the pair sleeping next to her. Dave was clutching the pillow tight as he refused to face the morning sun. Nox had wrapped himself in the bed covers so only his horn was visible

Celestia stretched as she climbed out of bed and walked around to nuzzle Dave’s neck “Wake up honey” She said softly, she giggled as Dave and Nox both groaned and held their soft prisons

“No… Sleep is good” Dave pressed his face into the pillow as he groaned. Finally he gave up and climbed out of bed, staggering into the bathroom

Celestia unrolled Nox from the bed covers and he landed on his feet, but shut his eyes as he assumed Dave’s old position of holding the pillow. The princess of the sun rolled her eyes as she set about dressing herself in her regalia

As Dave walked out of the bathroom, in slightly better direction than before, he picked up his trench coat and lazily put it on “So are we going for breakfast?” He mumbled as he struggled to button up his only piece of clothing

“Yes then you can take Nox around the castle and introduce him to everypony” Celestia finally managed to wake Nox up and he clambered into her mane, his grey head poked out and rested against his mother’s horn

Dave opened the door for Celestia as they walked out of the bedroom and headed towards the dining room. As they walked, Nox finally managed to properly awaken and occasionally would dive out of Celestia’s mane to fly around before landing back in the flowing mane

“So how was Strong Shield yesterday?” Celestia asked as they walked along the white corridors, she smiled as Nox spiralled in the air and missed Dave’s panicked expression

“Oh… Um… you know” He chuckled “just thinking of his glory days heh” Dave rubbed the back of his neck as they reached the dining room. He opened the door for Celestia and quickly followed her in, taking a seat that was closest to the white alicorn

The head chef quickly took Princess Celestia’s and Dave’s order but paused when Nox poked out of Celestia’s mane and gave him a confused stare

“So… is this the newborn prince?” The head chef asked as the grey alicorn hopped onto Dave’s lap. Celestia nodded and ended up asking the chef to use his initiative for the prince’s first breakfast

“Prince Noxporta?” Dave scratched the back of his head “Don't names have some relevance to talent in Equestria?” He looked up at Celestia as he playfully wrestled with Nox

“Well yes” Celestia nodded gently “But I am sure that his talent will be great no matter what it is” She reached over with a hoof and rubbed Nox’s cheek “After all he is our son”

Dave smiled “That is something I never imagined hearing” his smile faded as Nox gasped and clutched Dave in fear. Dave turned his head to see Strong Shield standing beside him “And I didn’t hear you at all”

Celestia used her magic to bring another chair to her end of the long table so Strong Shield could sit opposite Dave. As the unicorn took his place, the head chef returned with Celestia’s breakfast, the chef quickly took a small order from Strong Shield before hurrying away again

As Nox realized that the sudden addition to the table was the same unicorn from the medical wing, he eagerly bounced over the table to greet him. As he neared Strong Shield, Nox was suddenly having his wings felt by magic and the black unicorn held his mouth open and peered in

“Healthy” Strong Shield looked over at Dave’s unimpressed face before sighed “And very… full of potential”

Dave rolled his eyes “Can you compliment him without it sounding like a guard analysis?” He looked back as Strong Shield almost seemed to struggle at the idea

“He is very…” His eye looked back to the grey alicorn that was chasing his tail “Playful” He looked back to see Dave nod

“Thank you for the compliment” Celestia smiled “As for the health check, I think Nurse Redheart would be more than happy to do that for you”

Strong Shield groaned “Not that blasted Nurse” He thanked the chef that brought out a slightly nicer looking version of guard rations “She insisted on putting on some new bandages when I can put them on by myself”

Dave quickly tapped the chef’s shoulder “Excuse me but um… is my apple pie almost ready?”

“We are trying to find some clean apples for you” The head chef rolled his eyes “Two of my chefs mated on a pile of them because they saw a skeleton and assumed that it was their final few moments alive”

Dave chuckled “You don’t say” He returned to his normal sitting position as he wondered what other fruit he accidentally caused ponies to mate on top of. After a few more minutes his pie and a small bowl of porridge were brought in

The human hastily dug into his meal whilst the princess of the day and the ex-guard ate theirs in a more dignified manner. Nox tapped the bowl of porridge with a hoof before staring at it like it was a strange animal

As Dave finished his pie, he brought the bowl closer to him and sat Nox on his lap, picking up a spoon and getting some porridge along the way “Alright here comes the airplane! Nnnneeeauwwww!” Dave made attempted to make noises as the spoon neared Nox’s closed mouth

“What is an airplane?” Strong Shield asked as Dave groaned, Nox moved his head away from the spoon as Dave gave up

“It is a large metal bird that humans pilot and allows us to fly” Dave sighed, “What is your equivalent?”

Strong Shield rubbed his chin “We have hot air balloons or the air barges” He looked at Dave’s new smile with curiosity

“Alright” Dave got the spoon ready again, “Here comes the air barge! Nnnneeeauwwww!” his smile disappeared as Strong Shield coughed “What?”

“Air barges don’t make that noise” He stared at Dave whilst Celestia kept eating her breakfast quietly “At least try to sound realistic so he doesn’t get confused when Nox is older”

“If I made things sound realistic then it would be like this” Dave placed the spoon in the porridge bowl before speaking in a bored monotone voice “We are sorry for the delay as a woman has not put her tray in the upright position”

Strong Shield glared at Dave “Are you trying to be funny?”

“I never try, I am” Dave smirked but his smile faded as Celestia rose an eyebrow at him “FINE!” He groaned before picking up the spoon again, “This is a spoon not a plane, train or automobile” he shot a glare at Strong Shield “The substance on the spoon is porridge, an easy to eat source of nourishment that is mostly eaten on cold days or for breakfast as it is typically served hot”

“Yum!” Nox leaned back against Dave’s chest as he ate the porridge from the spoon. His large grin and child’s voice made Dave give the smug Strong Shield a stare

“I really hate you sometimes” Dave eventually smiled along with Strong Shield and Celestia as he fed Nox some more porridge “Choo Choo! Here comes the cutlery with a source of calcium!”

As Nox finished eating all the porridge, he kept shuffling from one being to another in an attempt to find a comfortable place to nap. Finally he found a nice spot on a very serious unicorn

Celestia had to hold back a laugh that Dave was openly enjoying, as she saw Nox rest on Strong Shield’s head “I find this degrading in more ways ever imaginable” he sighed. His depression was short lived as Celestia stood and moved over to him

“Strong Shield, would you do your princess a favour for one…” Her eyes moved over to a confused Dave before moving back “two hours” she smiled sweetly before Strong Shield nodded. As the unicorn reluctantly played with the grey colt, the white princess pushed Dave out of his chair “Come with me” she ordered

“Wait… why?” Dave asked as Celestia’s horn jabbed him towards the door “Why does dad have to look after Nox for two hours?”

“It has been four months since I have last seen you,” She continued to push Dave to the door “I am going to make up for lost time” her sly grin made Dave pause

As the human scratched his head, Celestia winked at him that confirmed his suspicions “OH! Wait now?”

“Yes now” Celestia said more irritably

Dave waved to Strong Shield as he placed an arm around Celestia “See you in two hours!” he said happily as he left the room with Celestia

Strong Shield looked at the confused colt that sat on the table “Yeah your parents are going to do secret things like that a lot” he sighed “Or mating, which ever you would prefer to say”

Chapter 9

Adamas allowed himself to glide as the countryside rolled past, the birds moved out of his way as he flew. Dave held a spike with one arm and held Nox in the other, the baby alicorn cheering as the wind rushed by

“So how has everything been since I left?” Dave yelled towards the dragon’s head. He coughed slightly as a bug flew into his mouth

“At first the ponies were very upset, they mourned your passing but eventually had to face the fact that you were gone” Adamas tilted his wings slightly so that his flight would slow down “I moved on as death is a natural thing that happens to us all”

“Aww, I missed you too” Dave chuckled as he patted the dragon’s back with his foot. Adamas finally came to a hover as he looked down at Ponyville below

“Where would you like to set down?” Adamas asked as he looked at the pony-filled streets, “I take it that you don’t want to make a sudden appearance”

“Yeah it may be weird dropping in like nothing happened” Dave dared to release Adamas as he scratched his chin “Maybe we could land near my house and we decide from there” Dave grabbed hold of the diamond spike again as Adamas nodded

The dragon tucked his wings in and went into a sharp dive, the speed caused Dave’s feet to lose their grip and move into the air. Dave held onto the dragon with his free hand whilst Nox happily giggled at his father’s nerves

Finally, Adamas opened his wings and came to a slow stop, Dave happily released the dragon and fell the few final feet to the ground. He used a hand to steady himself as he stood up, Nox wriggled free from his grasp and flew around Adamas’ head

“Well it is good to see that your offspring has the same enthusiasm you do” Adamas chuckled as he playfully chased the alicorn with his head. His jaws gently snapped around Nox but nowhere near close to actually biting him

Nox did a spiral around Adamas before bucking him in the chest, the dragon played along and played dead as the baby cheered at his victory. The grey colt landed on the dragon and tapped him curiously, his eyes full of wonder at the large beast

“Boo!” Adamas sprung back to life, causing the alicorn to scream as he rushed behind Dave and buried his face into Dave’s back for protection

“It’s alright Nox, he was only playing” Dave said reassuringly as he prised the colt off his back “Now what should we do?” He asked Adamas as he held his son in his arms

Adamas pointed to the two-story house behind Dave “Well I would imagine that you would want to get comfortable before heading out” his suggestion was accepted as Dave gladly walked over to his house

The house was made of light brown wood and the roof was perfectly thatched. A small stone chimney poked out of the roof and a large balcony was attached to the side. Dave moved to the front door as a golden aura appeared around the handle

“Magical lock?” Dave looked at Adamas for reassurance before holding Nox with one hand and reaching out with the other. His hand made contact and the aura resisted and shook before finally fading away

Adamas moved around the side of the house and rested his head near the balcony as Dave stepped inside. The dragon heard excited cheers from Nox and Dave as they quickly explored the home. The bedroom door burst open and Dave jumped onto the bed and hugged the pillows

“Oh I am never leaving you ever again” Dave sighed happily as Nox flew in and joined him “Alright Nox, important life lesson” Dave wrapped an arm around his son whilst his other kept his pillow close “Pillows are everyponies friend, they don’t deceive or make fun of you”

Nox nodded as he hugged his pillow and yawned. Dave smiled as he gently climbed off the bed and tucked his son in, planting a gentle kiss on his head before sneaking out onto the balcony

“You are both very lucky to have each other” Adamas smiled as he watched Dave look back at his son “It has been a big day for him but I imagine that he won’t rest long”

Dave sighed, “Being an alicorn I assume that he has tons of energy like the others” he yawned himself but quickly shook it off “so where should we go after this?”

“I am afraid that I left almost immediately after your demise” Adamas shrugged “I am afraid that none of the elements of harmony know what I look like now”

Dave rolled his eyes “Nothing is ever simple is it?” The human ran his hand through his hair as a breeze rolled past “Brrr, actually we can go to Rarity’s boutique first and get me some pants” Dave walked back into his house and pulled open a draw, the gold refection greeted him as he looked down at the heap of coins “Money is still here… that’s a bonus”

Nox yawned again as he sat up, rubbing his eyes “Bwa?” He managed to groan as he looked for his father. Dave walked over and picked him up, allowing Nox to rest his head on his shoulder as the colt’s grey hooves held around his neck

“Alright, I have some money just in case” Dave said quietly as he walked back outside, closing the door behind him “Carousel Boutique should be on the edge of town but I would rather we wait until later because we may get spotted at this time of the day”

Adamas chuckled as he lowered himself onto all fours and allowed his wings to cover his body “I learnt this trick a little while back” his body quivered, starting from his head. As the shake travelled along his body, his scales flowed before disappearing

“You can bend light around you?” Dave gawped “That is amazing” He gasped as Adamas’ head appeared from nowhere and tossed him onto his neck “Are you sure you can be stealthy?”

Adamas chuckled as he withdrew his head into his invisible cover “Have some faith Dave” He smiled as he moved swiftly without making a single noise “I have practiced a lot when I needed some time alone”

Dave nodded as the edge of Ponyville seemed to slide past them, Ponies that were almost next to the invisible dragon did not notice a thing. Adamas dared to slip between some buildings in an attempt to get to the boutique as quickly as he could

Dave stroked Nox’s mane in an attempt to keep him quiet until they reached the boutique. The dragon did a small manoeuvre around the building to get a quick look inside before stopping near the back door

“It appears that nopony is inside” Adamas whispered “I can unlock the back door for you and allow you to sneak inside” He waited for Dave to nod before moving his spiky tail to the door, one spike slid in before the door lock made a faint click

“You picked the lock?” Dave gasped, “You are sneakier than I remember,” he hummed before swiftly moving from the shelter of Adamas’ invisible cloak and into Rarity’s kitchen “Alright Nox, we be quiet calm and try not to surprise her”

Nox seemed to nod as Dave crept into the main shop area, Nox hopped down and acted like a prowling cat. Dave crouched as he moved to the door, switching the sign from open to closed before closing the curtains

“Alright, we should be ok from anypony peeking in” Dave moved over to an order sheet and picked up the quill “If I leave some cash and a note that will help ease the blow then…” Dave froze as he heard hoovesteps coming from the stairs, he darted into the dressing room and peeked out from the top

Sweetie Belle walked down the stairs with her eyes on the floor, she held a bored expression as she walked across the room towards a set of crayons and paper. Dave’s eyes shot open as he saw she was on a collision course with Nox, who was staring at all the different dresses on display

Sweetie Belle raised her head just as Nox turned his to look elsewhere. Dave placed his hand in his mouth as they bumped heads and staggered away from each other, his gasp almost took all the air out of his body as the colt and filly stared at each other

The white unicorn smiled as Nox sat in silence “Hello, what’s your name?” her smile made the colt blush as he brought his wings around his body and played with them nervously “Y-you’re an alicorn?” Sweetie Belle gasped as she noticed the horn-wing combo

Nox merely stood up and looked at his body, his size was slightly bigger than Sweetie Belle and would definitely be larger than anypony in her class at school. As he inspected his body, Sweetie Belle noticed his plain grey flank

“You’re a blank flank?” She smiled happily “I never knew alicorns had to earn their cutie marks too!” She held out a hoof to Nox “My name is Sweetie Belle, I have two other friends that are blank flanks”

Nox quickly scanned the room for Dave before looking back at the filly he was stuck with. His eyes met hers and he looked away with another blush. Dave was surprised at the shades of red his son was turning

“Are you shy?” Sweetie Belle sat down with a curious face, wondering how she could make her guest welcome “W-would you like to do some drawing with me? I was just about to before I met you”

Nox slowly nodded, he followed Sweetie Belle over to a white table before sitting opposite her, his eyes still avoiding looking at her for too long. Sweetie Belle passed Nox a sheet of blue paper and placed some crayons in the middle

Sweetie Belle picked up an orange before drawing on her sheet of pink paper. Nox watched her for a moment before picking up a white crayon and began drawing as well. His head moved faster and with greater fluency than Sweetie Belle, changing crayons every few seconds

Dave sighed in his small prison and watched the pair have fun drawing. His relaxed posture froze again as Sweetie Belle spoke up

“Do you like what I have drawn?” She held up a simple picture of four children playing, the orange Pegasus was obviously Scootaloo, the yellow one was Applebloom, the white was Sweetie Belle but she also drew Nox as well. All four were laughing in the picture

Nox nodded, as he looked down at his he placed a wing over it and his smile faded. Sweetie Belle placed her drawing down as she noticed her new friend’s behaviour

“What’s wrong?” She asked, she noticed Nox attempt to move his drawing away from her “I’m sure your drawing is great” She smiled. Nox hesitantly moved his wing and held up a extremely detailed picture of him and Sweetie Belle playing in the gardens of Canterlot

“That is going on the fridge,” Dave whispered proudly to himself as he saw the drawing that could have been easily mistaken for a photograph

“That’s amazing!” Sweetie Belle gasped as she looked at the drawing “Why don’t you have a cutie mark in painting?” she smiled as she looked at the picture with greater care

Nox only blushed as Sweetie Belle commented on how beautiful she had drawn her and how the scene looked lifelike. He placed his hooves nervously together as Sweetie Belle continued to admire his work

Dave smiled as his son finally spotted him and gave him a grin. The happy mood shattered as another pair of hoovesteps came from the stairs

“Sweetie Belle? Would you like to come and help your sister with… oh” The white unicorn named Rarity stopped at the bottom of the stairs, her eyes fixed on the alicorn “Well this is certainly a surprise” She looked around the shop but didn’t see anypony else

“Rarity, this is… I don’t know” Sweetie Belle confessed “But he is really nice and he is really good at drawing!” She held up the picture that Nox had drew

Rarity walked over “Yes I see that it is… marvellous!” She gasped, obviously she assumed it would have been like every other drawing she had seen a child draw “This is simply outstanding! Well whoever you little friend is, he certainly is a good little artist”

Nox nervously shuffled as the purple maned unicorn moved near him and grabbed his cheeks, pushing them together

“And look how cute he is!” Rarity smiled as she put Nox down “where did you come from?” Her eyes scanned the room once more for anypony else but fell upon the bag of coins near her order book

Rarity walked over and read the small note on her book “Need some clothes, hope you still have old measurements, will be extremely grateful if you don’t scream” Rarity reread the note to herself before humming “Now why would I scream? A lady never screams” as she finished her sentence she felt a tap on her shoulder, she turned to see Dave standing with a smile

“Hi” Dave said quietly

“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!” Rarity screamed, causing everypony to cover their ears. Dave rushed forwards and placed a hand over Rarity’s mouth

“I thought you said that ladies don’t scream!” Dave groaned as he heard the echoes of Rarity’s shriek in his head

Rarity pulled her head away, angry at being silenced “Screaming? I was calling out in distress!” Rarity glared “This is screaming!” She inhaled deeply before letting out a high-pitched scream that Dave winced at

“SHUT UP!” Dave yelled over Rarity’s scream, causing her to go silent

Rarity was about to verbally attack the human but she finally realized the person holding her “D-Dave? I-is that? H-how are you?” her eyes went in a spin before she passed out in Dave’s arms

Dave sighed as he laid Rarity on the sofa at the side of the room and returned to sit with the children. Sweetie Belle smiled as she gave Dave a huge hug

“Dave! You’re back from your vacation!” She smiled happily, “Rarity said that you weren't going to come back!” She pouted at the unconscious body of her sister

Dave rolled his eyes “So she didn’t tell you the truth… ah well” Dave picked Nox up and gave him a reassuring hug “Sweetie Belle, this is my son Noxporta or Nox for short”

Sweetie Belle’s eyes shot open “Y-your son? B-but he is an alicorn, I know you and Princess Celestia were going to…to...” the fillies eyes opened wider before she passed out as well

Dave shrugged at Nox before taking Sweetie Belle and placing her in a chair “Well at least the introductions have started” Dave chuckled “Welcome to my life, the girls are crazy and all the plans go wrong”

Chapter 10

Rarity held her head as her eyes slowly opened “What a strange dream” She stretched her back as she looked at the sofa she slept on “Urgh… so unlady like”

“Yeah well I wasn’t going to carry you to bed, last time I had to undress you,” Dave teased from his seat near Rarity. He placed his hand over her mouth as she let out another scream “Can you please be quiet?”

The white unicorn pushed the hand away “H-h-how are you alive?” She finally managed to say as Dave chuckled

“Well let’s say that I had a reason” As he finished he held up Nox to the bewildered pony “I don’t get why you are surprised, I died once or twice before”

“But you had that ghastly fog inside of you” Rarity sat up “How could you have come back without him? Unless… AHHH!” Again, Rarity had her mouth covered as she screamed

Dave rolled his eyes “Odio has completely gone, he made it so I could come back but it would have taken much longer if I didn’t have a target” he looked down at Nox “So when I was a spirit I managed to talk to Celestia while she was dreaming”

Rarity finally calmed down enough for Dave to remove his hand “S-so you aren’t evil in anyway?” She sighed happily as Dave nodded “Well it is a delight to see you again” She hugged Dave as her eyes began to water “I am so sorry for my actions last time, I couldn’t see what was truly going on”

Dave hugged the mare reassuringly “It wasn’t your fault or any of the other girls, so there is nothing to forgive” he placed down the alabaster unicorn as she tidied her mane “So why are you here?”

“Clothes” Dave pointed to his trench coat “This is all I have and it is getting a bit nippy” He smiled to Rarity as she rolled her eyes and began working

“Destroyed clothes?” Rarity chuckled “Some things never change do they?” she flipped through one of her notebooks and found her old measurements “Simple design?”

“Glad you remember” Dave chuckled but his attention shifted to Nox as he hopped over to Sweetie Belle. The filly blinked as she sat up, rubbing her head

“What happened?” Sweetie Belle groaned until she came face to face with Nox “Oh hello, umm… you’re on my tail”

Nox looked down at his hoof that was pinning her soft tail down, his face turned red again as he lifted his hooves so Sweetie Belle could get away. Dave smiled at the sight before walking over to Rarity and sitting next to her workstation

“So how have things been? Since I… left” Dave avoided saying the obvious around Sweetie Belle

Rarity sighed “We were confused at first, we didn’t know how much Odio affected us” She looked at Dave “We didn’t know if you were working with him or if you were an illusion” she continued to cut materials to size as she worked “The princesses reassured us that you were good”

Dave watched Rarity carefully sew and trim the fabrics she was using “What should we do about the others?” he looked back at Sweetie Belle and Nox. Sweetie Belle was tidying her crayons whilst Nox rested on the sofa “Can you get them to all come over?”

“I would try but any time I have an emergency they ignore me” Rarity tapped her chin “Last week I misplaced some royal blue silk and they merely passed it off as nothing”

Dave hummed “So only something that is an actual problem” the human got lost in his thoughts as Rarity continued to work. His eyes moved over to the various dresses around the room, some were simplistic and looked like designer pyjamas, one was almost coated in sapphires and diamonds

Dave stared at a large diamond as Nox let out a deep yawn, almost like a roar. Sweetie Belle cast Nox an interested look before finishing her cleaning, the white filly smiled at Dave before sitting on the sofa and resting her eyes

“Rarity?” Dave stood up as an idea formed in his mind “I have a plan that is sure to get the others to come over”

Rarity did not look up from her work “Is it as ridiculous as they used to be?” She raised an eyebrow as Dave agreed, “What are you going to do? Get a manticore to attack my boutique?” She said sarcastically before she chuckled, she lost her smile as Dave didn’t laugh along

“No, well… not exactly a manticore” Dave smiled before heading for the back door “I’m gonna make sure nothing bad happens but it will be quite loud” He ignored Rarity’s questions as he stepped outside “Hey Adamas?”

The diamond dragon’s head appeared, dwarfing Dave by it’s size “What do you require?” he listened to Dave’s plan before chuckling “That is both ridiculous and brilliant”

Meanwhile…

Twilight sat on her balcony reading as usual, her scaled assistant brought up a bowl of salad and placed it next to her “Thank you Spike, are you having anything to eat?” she asked as the purple dragon shook his head

“I just had some, besides we have still got some apple pie left over from yesterday” Spike looked over the horizon “I haven’t had any news from the princess yet” he sighed sadly

Twilight placed a purple hoof around the baby dragon “Listen Spike, you shouldn’t have to worry about that” She sighed as she saw a tear form in Spike’s eye “When the princess has her baby I am sure you will be the first to know”

“You really mean that?” Spike looked back up at the unicorn “Will I get to spend time with it?”

“I’ll make sure of it” Twilight hugged Spike before an ear-splitting roar made them jump apart “What was that?” Twilight gasped

“I don’t know, it sounded big!” Spike rubbed his claws nervously “And angry” He spotted a rainbow coloured blur coming towards them “It’s Rainbow Dash!” he pointed

As the cyan Pegasus slowed down and hovered off the balcony she turned to Twilight “What the hay was that?”

“I don’t know, can you see anything?” Twilight used her magic to teleport onto the streets and Spike dropped from the balcony onto her back. Rainbow looked around before shrugging “Go find the others!”

Rainbow Dash saluted before shooting away, returning every few minutes with another one of her friends, except Rarity. Applejack adjusted her stetson hat before looking around with concern, Fluttershy cowering behind her

“What in tarnations was that? I heard it from the farm!” She looked around “Where is Rarity?”

Rainbow Dash shrugged “Nopony answered the door at the boutique, but we don’t have time to hunt for her”

Pinkie bounced in the air “What about a party while we look? It can be a… hunting party!” She jumped around happily “If Twilight makes some tranquilizers, I can make the guns and Fluttershy can provide the hounds!”

“We aren’t looking for Rarity until we find out what that noise was” Twilight groaned, “What are guns anyway?”

The girls all screamed as the noise tore through their ears again and the ground shook. Applejack looked up before her jaw dropped “Oh horseapples”

The rest of the girls all turned their heads to look where Applejack was before their jaws dropped as well. They looked up at the huge diamond dragon that roared and snorted at the scurrying ponies beneath it

“HELP! Oh won’t somepony hear my cries of fear?” Rarity bellowed from her boutique, “This dragon has held me captive in my own home!” She saw her friends from her bedroom window and glared at their faces “It would be nice if my friends could come and rescue me!”

Spike grabbed Twilight’s mane like reigns “Never fear my lady Rarity! I will save you!” He cheered, but Twilight turned to talk to her friends

“We have to get Rarity out of there!” She said in a panicked tone “Rainbow! Fly in and grab her!” her plan was shot down as Rarity screamed again

“Oh no!” She held her head as she hung out the window “I am being trapped by magical incantations, trees full of apples, time trials, wild animals and cake! Oh woe is me!”

“Do ya think she knows about the dragon that is three times the size of her house?” Applejack rolled her eyes at Rarity’s self-pity “But we can worry about that later, let’s save her!”

The girls all cheered as they ran to the boutique, with the exception of Fluttershy “Umm… I don’t think this is a good idea” She shied away but Rainbow Dash raced back to grab her and drag her to the boutique

The gang kicked the door open and jumped in, expecting a wave of horrible creatures being controlled by the dragon. Instead they saw a grey colt sat in the middle of the room drawing a picture, Twilight gasped when she saw the horn and the wings

“An alicorn? B-but how?” Her puzzling was put on hold as a green blur whipped past and a long piece of silk wrapped around her hooves and pulled her up to the ceiling, Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie soon followed. Spike dived for cover whilst Fluttershy hid with her hooves over her head

Fluttershy opened an eye and saw the web of silk binding her friends, her eyes moved over to the colt in the middle of the room. She carefully crept over and extended a hoof “Come on now little guy, let’s get somewhere safe” She looked around nervously but froze as something grabbed her

“I wouldn’t risk touching Nox” Dave chuckled “The combined cuteness if you hugged would cause everyponies hearts to flutter out of their chests and explode in showers of blood and daww” Dave smiled at Fluttershy “It would be beautiful and disgusting at the same time”

Fluttershy spluttered before her eyelids closed and she collapsed, leaving the rest of the girls with their jaws open yet again. Spike crawled out from his hiding spot and gazed at Dave

“D-Dave? Are you really here?” Spike stared at Dave, not blinking out of fear the human might disappear again

Dave nodded “Yeah Spike, I’m back with a surprise” Dave picked up the gray alicorn by his feet “This is Nox” He smiled as he showed the ponies his son “Celestia gave birth two days ago and thought that you would like to meet him”

The ponies all gasped as Nox huddled against Dave and shied away from the ponies’ eyes. Dave hugged him as he released the ponies’ from their silk prison

“Sorry about that, I didn’t want anypony to do something silly” Dave shrugged “That included you Pinkie… Pinkie?”

Pinkie was shaking madly, her mane wobbled as sparks danced around her. Everypony took cover as excited eyes and a huge smile grew on her face

“What is going on?” Dave asked as he grabbed Nox and jumped behind the sofa, reaching out and grabbing the fainted Fluttershy’s tail before pulling her behind the sofa as well

“It only happened once before” Applejack covered her ears “She can throw a new kind of party for the first time, which means she can throw a party to celebrate”

“And you just gave her two reasons to throw a new kind of party!” Twilight frowned at Dave “You’re back from the dead and now you have a son!”

Dave chuckled “You miss me?”

Twilight rolled her eyes “Kinda” she admitted before sharing a smile with Dave. Everypony covered their ears as Pinkie began to vibrate and bounce around the room

Dave peeked over at the pink moving blur “I think she is gonna blow!” Dave ducked as he placed his hands around Nox’s ears rather than his own

Chapter 11

Dave’s ears continued to ring after the pink wave rushed past. The only sounds he could make out were dull gasps and low cheering. As his hearing returned to normal Dave poked his head out from behind the sofa and rose an eyebrow

Everything was the same, everything from the walls to the mannequins in the corner. Dave saw the gang all staring out the window, wide smiles on each of their faces. He stood up before going to look out the window as well

“Alright, what is so… so… how the hell?” Dave gawped as he saw the entire town was decorated for a street party. Bunting stretched from house to house over a long table that curved around buildings and trees. The table was full of food, drinks and treats of all varieties

Pinkie bounced happily in a party hat “Yay! You’re all here!” She cheered as she finished hanging up a banner around the town hall. Dave chuckled as he followed his friends outside “You are all in time for the ‘Welcome back from the dead’ party, the ‘New dad party’, oh and the ‘Welcome back to Ponyville’ party but those are for Dave only”

“Thanks Pinkie” Dave smiled happily as Ponies began to walk out of buildings and sit at the table “But how did…” He was cut off as Pinkie bounced around him, speaking excitedly

“There is also the ‘welcome to Ponyville’, ‘new baby’, ‘new royal’, ‘first party’ and ‘first street party’ parties for Noxie!” Pinkie bounced around with the grey colt before being grabbed by Dave

“Pinkie, how did you set this all up in ten seconds?” Dave looked around at the decorations and food “How many party cannons did you have? Do you have a party attack chopper?”

Pinkie snorted as she burst into laughter “No silly! I had ages to do all this while you were on your tea break and when you were having your day off!”

“Tea break?” Dave shrugged “And what day off?” He glared at Pinkie as if she had wiped some of his memory

“Duh the one the author let us have!” Pinkie gasped, “That reminds me! I have to get him a cake to celebrate making a sequel!” She squirmed out of Dave’s grip before galloping away at top speed

Dave scratched the back of his head “Now I remember why she confused me” he sighed before turning back to the others “So how are you all?” He had a second to brace as the group bundled onto him and pinned him to the ground

The girls all hugged Dave’s body as Spike grabbed Dave’s neck and tears rolled down the dragon’s face “I thought you were gone!” Spike cried as Dave managed to return the hug. Dave wrapped his other arm around all the girls and held them tightly

“Don’t worry, I’m back now” Dave smiled as he felt his own tears forming “I’ll try not to pick a fight with any demons or enemies of the princesses again”

As the gang released Dave from his pony prison, he wiped his tears away and smiled at them. Spike crawled up and sat on Dave’s shoulder like he used to as Dave stood up

“I guess that we all need to catch up” Dave smirked as he heard a familiar voice from behind

“Eeyup!” Big Mac smiled as Dave looked at him. Dave looked past the big red stallion to the large horde of ponies behind him. Dave’s smile only grew as he saw a spiky maned DJ turn on a large turntable

Dave nodded “This is frigging amazing!” he cheered as he joined the town at the large table. The residents of Ponyville all sat at the table, they all managed to get a short conversation with Dave before he began to walk around and talk to specific ponies

Pinkie bounced around with a mouth full of candy, her bouncing stopped as Dave grabbed her in a hug “Hey Dave! Did you want some more punch?”

“No you have done more than enough” Dave looked around at the town “I can’t thank you enough for this” Dave felt a pink hoof wrap around him as Pinkie embraced him in a hug

“Don’t worry Dave” Pinkie nuzzled Dave’s neck “You did save us all from that meanie Odio”

Dave’s smile slipped “Yeah… yeah I did” He released Pinkie and allowed her to visit the other ponies around the long table. Dave felt Spike tap his head “Yeah?” He asked as he looked at the dragon on his shoulder

“What’s up?” Spike looked concerned at Dave’s disheartened face “You don’t have anything to worry about, you’re alive again and all your friends are here”

“You wouldn’t understand” Dave shook his head “Odio did bad things but he was a good being” He ignored Spike’s unconvinced sneer “To be honest… I kinda wish he was still around” Dave shrugged before walking around the corner and spotting Applejack and Twilight

“Howdy Dave” Applejack tipped her hat “So how long have ya been back? Alive I mean” She smiled as Dave sat opposite her and took a slice of cake from one of the various plates around the table

“Since Nox was born, so about two days” Dave bit into his cake and allowed the sweet taste of the topping to linger in his mouth “Has anything interesting happened since I… left?”

“Not really” Twilight sighed happily “Except for all the rumours about the gryphons and the changelings there hasn’t been anything major going on” She continued to eat her food as Dave hummed to himself

“Well knowing my luck, trouble is bound to show up from nowhere” He sighed as he stood up in search of other ponies. He smiled to a few familiar faces before noticing something out the corner of his eye “Spike?”

“Yeah Dave?” The purple dragon listened intently as the human pointed to Rarity’s boutique. His gaze shifted from the building to the diamond dragon and the blushing unicorn beside it “Rarity?”

Dave jogged over, his pace quickened as Spike began to scratch him nervously. Dave stopped beside the laughing couple, a small smile on his face “So Adamas, you have met Rarity then?”

“Why of course” Adamas smiled “It is an honour to speak to the element of generosity, she is highly regarded in the enlightened”

Rarity chuckled as she playfully tapped the dragon’s nose “The honour should be mine! Speaking to an ambassador, not to mention a dragon is possession of such gorgeous diamond scales” She admired herself in her reflection

“You have such a fine mane” Adamas complimented “It has such a powerful colour and it fits your sublime figure perfectly” the diamond dragon smiled as Rarity blushed again

“Oh come now, you are just exaggerating” The white unicorn stared into the dragon’s eyes as he stared back. Dave held a fake smile as he felt Spike’s jealousy and anger grip his shoulder

Dave clapped loudly “Rarity, do you mind getting me a drink? I need to talk to Adamas quickly” he shook Spike of his shoulder as Rarity nodded “Spike will help you”

“Ok, come Spike” Rarity winked at Adamas before going to fetch some drinks, swaying her hips with less subtlety. Spike snarled as he followed his crush to the table and shot Adamas a death glare

Dave smiled until he turned to Adamas “Ok, why the hell were you hitting on Rarity?” Dave frowned at the larger creature’s confused expression “You know… flirting with her”

“I wasn’t flirting, I was simply making nice compliments” Adamas shrugged “She opened with a nice comment about my scales so I had to respond with something nice as well”

Dave shook his head “A chocolate bar is nice, you were giving her a candlelit dinner, wine and full on passion in a hot tub!” Dave looked around to make sure that nopony heard him “Did you know that Spike happens to have a crush on her?”

“Hitting on, crush” Adamas sighed, “Why can’t you all get strait to the point? Spike wishes to engage in sexual activities with Rarity” He rolled his eyes “Isn’t that simpler?”

“NO!” Dave gasped, “You can’t just point at somepony and say ‘HEY I WANT SEX!’ ” The human’s face dropped as he heard the stunned silence behind him. He turned slowly to see the entire of Ponyville was gawping at him “Umm… I mean…”

Pinkie gasped again “I FORGOT BRAEBURN!” She ran into Sugarcube Corner, leaving the townsponies even more confused. Pinkie finally returned with a large box with a bow tie “Here you go Dave!”

Dave gawped at the box “Pinkie… did you ponynap Braeburn again?” He began to undo the bow tie as Pinkie simply smiled again. As the front of the box opened up, Dave’s jaw dropped and his hand covered his mouth “Oh… shit”

Braeburn was huddled in the corner, scraps of brown material littered the floor of the box and his waistcoat was gone. The earth pony covered his dark eyes from the sun and a beard stretched from his chin to his hooves

“Braeburn?” Dave said gently “Are you alright?” He looked around the insides of the box and saw words had been carved into the wood “I’m gonna guess no” he stepped back as Big Mac and Applejack helped their cousin out of the box

Braeburn hardly recognized the ponies around him as he grabbed Big Mac “Where am I? WHAT YEAR IS IT?” He slammed his hooves over his sensitive eyes as the sun hit him with full force

Dave and the ponies watched as Braeburn rolled around the floor “Pinkie… how long have you kept him in a box this time?” All the eyes swept to Pinkie as she smiled

“When you died!” She said proudly “When you left, I retrieved Braeburn in case you came back” She bounced on top of the box and looked down at Dave “I didn’t want one of your friends to miss the party now would I?”

“FOUR MONTHS?” Dave gawped at Braeburn “Motherfucking hide and seek champion” He sighed as Applejack and Big Mac took him away to clean him up “Anymore surprises?”

Pinkie tapped her chin “Nah, I’m all out” She smiled before bouncing away again. Dave turned back to Adamas before scratching his head

“Anyway… you can’t be as forward with ponies as you can with dragons” Dave folded his arms disapprovingly. He spotted Rarity and Spike returning in the reflection on Adamas’ scales “Ponies are different from dragons, you wouldn’t even be able to touch her

“Yes I could” Adamas snorted aggressively “Just watch,” He whispered to Dave as Rarity placed a barrel of punch down for Adamas and passed Dave a half-full cup

“There you go Dave” She smiled to him before her gaze shifted to Adamas “I managed to get a barrel of punch for you Adamas, I called in a few favours but I know you would appreciate it”

Adamas smiled “Thank you very much” He took the barrel into his mouth before tilting his head back and allowing the liquid to pour down his throat, some ran down his scales and flowed between the cracks

“Be careful darling, you don’t want to stain those beauties” Rarity used a napkin to clean some spills before Adamas lowered his head again, placing the barrel aside “Have you had enough?”

Adamas gently nodded “Thank you so much for your hospitality” he sighed “Sometimes it can be quite hard living as a dragon around smaller creatures, the fear and discrimination can be quite upsetting”

Dave opened his mouth to argue but his mouth closed again. Adamas was not lying, he was being honest and truthful. By putting his emotions out and letting Rarity understand, she was already rubbing his snout to sooth him

“Aww you precious thing” Rarity sighed “Don’t worry, you will always be welcome in Ponyville so long as I am here” She reassured Adamas before resting her head against him. Dave saw Spike storm off before watching Adamas wink at him

“Sneaky, truthful dick” Dave sighed before smiling and walking away in search of other ponies. After a while, he found himself at the DJ turntables beside the unicorn artist “So how has business been?” Dave yelled over the music

“Yeah, pretty good” Vinyl Scratch moved a few dials before moving back to Dave “I lost the bet by the way” She sighed

“The one with Otacon? No, wait… Octopus?” Dave rubbed his head in wonder “Octavia?” He fist pounded the air as Vinyl nodded

“She did a little better” The DJ smirked “I would have won if she hadn’t distracted me during my performance. Vinyl shook her spiky blue mane before standing back up at the turntables again, “You should swing by the club sometime, and we can catch up then”

Dave nodded “Sure, next time I am in Canterlot” He stood and looked over the large crowd that had formed and made a dance floor. Spike ran up to Dave with a scroll held high

“Dave!” Spike panted, “The princess sent this!” He handed the scroll to Dave before collapsing. Dave opened the scroll in curiosity as he read it quietly to himself

“Dear Dave” The human muttered “Nox is currently being looked after by Adamas and Twilight, I am currently awaiting some time for us to enjoy each others company” Dave chuckled as he poked Spike “I know what she means” He smirked before continuing to read “As I await I am currently sprawled out across your bed in your home in Ponyville”

Dave’s smirk faded as his legs suddenly began to move at over-speed towards his house, he quietly thanked that Rarity had not finished his clothes as he neared the house and removed his dragonscale trench coat

A few hours later…

Nox giggled loudly as Fluttershy rubbed his tummy, his wings flapped gently as Rainbow Dash messed with his hair.

“I think it would look cool if it was spiky” The cyan mare looked before sitting back “Why are we foalsitting again?” She looked over at Twilight

The purple unicorn sighed “The princess has to deal with a potential invasion and she needs Dave to assist her” She held her head high before realizing the hidden message “That is just wrong” she sighed “At least we get to play with Nox”

The grey alicorn managed to escape the mares as he dived for cover beneath Adamas’ wings. His eyes poked out as he glared at the ponies, daring them to attack his dragon fort. He gasped as the dragon moved and exposed his hiding spot

The mares chuckled as Nox flew back and sat down, glaring at the dragon that spoiled his fun. His glare vanished as a tall white stallion stepped into his view, his appearance made Twilight leap at him

“Shining Armour!” Twilight hugged her big brother “What are you doing here?” she released Shining from her gasp as he was joined by his wife. He smaller alicorn frame looked perfect next to her husband

“We were invited” Cadence smiled “We received a letter yesterday for some strange reason and we had to attend” She rose an eyebrow as Pinkie cheered

“See? The day off, I told you!” She pointed at the ponies around her as if they had been beaten in a game. The ponies all looked back to the married couple before Cadence picked up Nox

“Is this Celestia’s son?” She gasped as Nox gave her a hug “Oh he is adorable, where is the lucky mother anyway?”

“I think she is at Dave’s house” Spike shuddered “I read the scroll she sent Dave after he left about two hours ago” he pretended to gag “The letter was disturbing”

Shining Armour chuckled as Nox landed on his back “Well honey would you like to go take this little guy back to his parents?” He nuzzled Cadence as they said goodbye and headed for Dave’s house just outside Ponyville

Nox flew around happily as he followed the couple towards the familiar house. He finally landed on Shining Armour’s back before spotting Dave standing on his balcony. He waved to the human as Nox flew to his dad. Dave finished wiping face with a towel before holding his hands out for Nox

Dave caught Nox and held him tight. He poked his head back into the bedroom where Celestia was “Shining and Cadence are here, you don’t mind if me and Shining sit outside and talk do you?”

“Not at all” Celestia walked over and planted a kiss on Dave’s lips “I could do with a chat with Cadence” she smiled as she kissed Nox’s forehead and they jumped off the balcony and were replaced by the pink princess

“Hello Princess Celestia” Cadence bowed “How have you been?”

“I have been well” Celestia smiled at the smaller alicorn before sitting on the bed “But do you mind if I ask for some advice?”

“What kind of advice?” Cadence sat next to her as she saw the princess of the sun’s worried face “Oh no… what’s wrong?”

Celestia shook her head “Nothing is wrong it’s just that… Dave and I were here being rather… intimate” Her blush grew as Cadence smirked

“Was it good?” She smiled as Celestia gasped before gently nodding “So what is the problem?”

Celestia shuffled nervously before finally gaining the courage to talk “We had a slight… incident, but I was wondering what else we could do with each other, if you um… know what I mean” her blush grew as Cadence did a slow, powerful nod

“I know a few things, Shining and I have experimented” Cadence smiled as she thought back “And being a princess of love does help with those… activities” The pink alicorn moved further onto the bed “Alright if you copy me then I can show you what Dave has to do”

“HALT!” Celestia yelled “No offence, I was expecting pointers not… hooves on experience” She blushed again before Cadence laughed quietly to herself

“Don’t worry Princess Celestia” Cadence sat up again “I promise not to make you uncomfortable, I will only show you some simple positions, tell you of some small… umm… large items you can buy and when we get back to Canterlot you can borrow some of my books”

Celestia was almost completely red as Cadence talked openly about her adventures in the bedroom and explained in great detail all the feelings and emotions she felt

Meanwhile…
(Aka the man version of above)

Dave passed Shining Armour a drink before allowing Nox to fall asleep next to him. Dave held his own drink before looking at Shining Armour. They were both sat against a tree near the side of the house

“Something weird and disgusting just happened to me” Dave hung his head in shame

Shining looked at him with concern “What’s up?”

“Well… Celestia was giving me a…” Dave held his fist by his mouth and pushed his cheek out with his tongue “You know what I mean?”

“Oh… Yeah” Shining nodded “And? Don’t worry, you can tell me anything, odds are I have done it with Cadence anyway”

“Trust me you haven’t done this” Dave sighed “Well basically I… finished and Celestia looked at me in the eye and was going to… well you know” He took a gulp of his drink as he raised his eyebrows

Shining nodded with a smile “And? There is nothing bad with that” he chuckled “Carry on” He sighed as he began to drink

“I don’t know why but…” Dave frowned to himself “I said that she could have been swallowing Nox’s sister”

Shining spat his drink all over the floor and gawped at Dave “What?”

“Yeah… Celestia did the same”

Chapter 12

Dave said his farewells to Shining Armour and Princess Cadence as he carried Nox inside, the grey alicorn’s head slumped over Dave’s shoulder. The human gently carried the baby upstairs and into the spare bedroom

“Good night” Dave whispered as he laid Nox down and tucked him into bed. Dave kissed the top of his son’s head before switching the light off and creeping into his bedroom. Celestia was already in bed and was reading some sheets of paper

“How was your chat with Shining Armour?” Celestia continued to read her documents as Dave made his way over to the bed, removing his trench coat before climbing in beside the white alicorn

“Forgot to pick up my clothes from Rarity” Dave mumbled before responding to the princess “It was alright” Dave laid on his side to stare up at Celestia “how was your talk with Cadence?” Dave rose an eyebrow as Celestia blushed

“It was very… informative” She smiled at Dave before her attention was fully torn from the sheets of paper before her “Why are you looking at me like that?”

Dave shrugged “Like what?” his eyes continued to stare into hers, his gaze never seeming to look away

“You seem really… happy” Celestia placed her sheets aside as she shuffled down into the bed and rested her head onto the pillow “Not that I’m complaining”

The human let out a small sigh as he continued to stare at Celestia. Finally, a small smile crossed his face as Celestia yawned, “So why are you here anyway?”

Celestia rubbed her eyes before allowing them to close “Am I not allowed to be with the one I love?” She smiled as she cracked open an eye to see Dave’s grin grow

“Of course you are but I thought you would have stayed in Canterlot” Dave gave Celestia a quick kiss before climbing out of bed “I’m just going to fetch myself some water, do you want anything?”

“No I’m fine thank you” Celestia shuffled into a more comfortable position before attempting to go to sleep. Dave walked silently downstairs and into the kitchen, grabbing a cup from the side and filling it with cold water

As Dave took a sip of the refreshing water, his small thirst was quickly diminished. He walked out of the kitchen but stopped halfway through the living room, his eyes slowly moved over to the large earth pony relaxing on the sofa

“Sup?” Battering Ram gave a small wave as he took a bite out of an avocado. His eyes lazily looked at the small fruit in his hoof

Dave placed his cup down and glared at the earth pony “What the hell are you doing here?” He kept his voice quiet so he did not attract Celestia’s attention

The large earth pony sighed, “I’m fine don’t worry” He pulled the hard seed out of the fruit he was eating as he continued to eat the soft flesh “But I am here to ask you for a favour”

“A favour?” Dave chuckled “You broke quite a few of my bones and threatened to harm my dad” the angry human clenched his fists as the pony rolled his eyes “Why would I want to help you?”

Battering Ram placed the tough seed in his mouth and easily chewed through it “Because Strong Shield was a very good friend, I would prefer to avoid killing him” Ram sighed, “he won’t listen to me, he can’t look at Flux but he will listen to you”

Dave nervously looked at the stairs before sitting down in his armchair “I will listen to what you have to say but I want answers” He waited until Ram nodded before relaxing in his chair

“Strong Shield has a key for a vault, I need that key” Battering Ram held out his hooves “That’s it, simple but he will take the location of the key to his grave”

“If I get the key will you leave my family alone?” Dave sighed as Battering Ram nodded “what the hell is inside this vault? Some kind of weapon?”

Battering Ram shrugged “Strong Shield knows what is inside but the vault has been moved a few times, only Flux and I know where it is” He sat up as he saw Dave tense “I understand that you don’t trust me but if I wanted to harm you then I already would have”

Dave reluctantly relaxed into his chair “All I want is for my family to be safe, if I get this key then I could be putting them at risk” Dave scratched his head as possibilities swirled in his mind “I won’t do it, I trust Strong Shield will do the right thing”

“Don’t say that I didn’t give you a chance” Battering Ram got to his feet as he took a deep breath. Dave stood as well but was knocked down as a hoof slammed him in the throat, Ram quickly held him down “I will drain your blood and drown your son in it if you don’t get Strong Shield to hand over the key”

Dave’s hands uselessly fought against the muscular hoof that held his windpipe shut, the pony’s strength easily surpassed his. Dave happily gasped for air as Battering Ram released him “Get fucked!” Was all Dave could growl before Battering Ram used a hoof to pick him up and pin him against a wall

“Flux and I have killed for justice and purpose” His angry eyes turned sad as his head drooped “Strong Shield killed because of revenge, he killed because he was obsessed” Battering Ram released Dave and head butted him to the floor “Why he tried to defend you… I have no idea”

Dave’s hand rubbed against the floor as he dragged it towards his face. His groan was painful as he discovered his face was heavily indented, his nose no longer pointed. His eye managed to open in time to see Battering Ram walk out the door and disappear into the night

After a few pain filled minutes of slow healing, Dave managed to push himself to his feet and stagger to the stairs. He stopped at the top to check Nox was still asleep before creeping into his bedroom, Celestia’s gentle breathing indicated that she was asleep

Dave crawled into bed and shuffled close to the white alicorn, her unconscious body moved to grab him in return. Dave closed his eyes and struggled to finally fall asleep

In the morning…

Dave groaned as a small voice made its way into his ears, disturbing his already restless sleep. His eyes reluctantly slid open to reveal Celestia was still asleep next to her, the dim moonlight cast a gentle glow over her already perfect features

Dave assumed Celestia was talking in her sleep so he took a deep breath before attempting to get to sleep again. His eyes opened again when the voice called again, it definitely was not Celestia. Instead, the voice seemed too harsh but just as gentle, like an annoyed child

“Dad?”

Dave rolled onto his back and a grey colt flew onto his chest, Nox’s face seemed puzzled rather than the vague look of interest that it usually had. Dave quickly scanned the room for the source of the voice, his head stopped as he realized the last word said

“When are we having breakfast?” Nox smiled as Dave’s head attempted to push through the pillow and into the bed itself. Dave poked Celestia, when she failed to do more than moan he rapidly poked her until she angrily awoke

“Dave, stop” She sighed as she looked out the windows “I will raise the sun when I need to” She dropped her head back into the pillow

Nox walked over to Celestia’s head, leaving Dave to stare wide-eyed and his head as far back as his neck would allow

“Mommy, when are we having breakfast?” Nox nuzzled Celestia until she hugged him, obviously her mind was still asleep

“In a bit sweetie” Celestia sighed before her eyes shot open and her surprised face matched Dave’s. Her hooves released Nox as she nervously cleared her throat “D-did you just say something?” she smiled to go along with her nervous voice

Nox nodded “I’m hungry” He sat down as his stomach growled, “When are we having breakfast?” His pleading eyes made Dave and Celestia remove their confused faces

Dave nervously glanced at Celestia before picking Nox up “I’ll make you something now, mommy has just got to… panic” He stood up, the colt in his arms was definitely heavier than yesterday and his body was slightly larger

Dave grabbed his trench coat before heading downstairs and taking Nox into the kitchen. He placed Nox down in a seat before dressing himself and inspecting the cupboards. It appeared Pinkie was kind enough to restock his house as he had plenty of baking ingredients

The sunlight rolled through the windows and replaced the dull glow from the moon. Celestia entered the kitchen to see Dave making pancakes and Nox sitting happily at the table. She smiled to Dave before sitting at the table next to Nox, her face struggled to remove her confused stare

“Mommy… are you ok?” Nox tilted his head as he noticed Celestia’s worried eyes. His confusion only grew as Celestia moved neared and hugged him “Um… has something happened?”

Dave walked over with three plates of pancakes each were covered in syrup. He placed the plates down before kneeling next to Nox “Listen, there is no easy way of saying this but… you seemed to have aged a lot since yesterday”

“I don’t understand” Nox hid behind his wings nervously “Have I done something wrong?” His voice trembled as his eyes began to water

“No of course not” Celestia nuzzled her son until he revealed himself again “Normal ponies take years to do what you have done in only a few days” her eyes glanced at Dave before moving back “It is probably because you are an alicorn”

Dave sat in his chair opposite the ponies before slowly eating his sweet breakfast “It was just a shock to wake up to you speaking” He reassured Nox before he chuckled “Being my son, I’m not surprised strange stuff happens to you”

“Huh?” Nox looked between his parents before his stomach rumbled again and his gaze fixed onto the pancakes that sat a few inches from his head. His hunger became apparent as he finished his breakfast in less than a minute

Celestia and Dave shrugged before they ate their breakfast, Nox helped himself to the pancakes that Celestia could not finish. As the family finished their meal, Dave retrieved some money from upstairs before meeting Celestia and Nox outside

“So what is the plan?” Dave asked as he walked beside Celestia, Nox seemed perfectly happy walking on his own as he looked around the landscape

Celestia sighed “I suppose we could see if Twilight Sparkle has any books that contain any… oh who are we kidding” The white alicorn rolled her eyes “If I don’t know something then it certainly isn’t in any book”

Dave wrapped an arm around Celestia as he stroked her mane “I’m sure everything will be ok, a little rushed but it will turn out fine” He smiled as Celestia laughed to herself

“So long as we are together, everything will be fine” Celestia kissed Dave’s cheek as she rested her head on his shoulder “Sometimes I wish that I could have normal things like everypony else”

Dave hugged her reassuringly but something suddenly split his mind, his feelings suddenly being pulled in various directions. Happy that he was back with Celestia and his son was with them, but also disheartened that he couldn’t give Celestia something normal without something strange happening

Dave shook his head as the entered Ponyville and stopped outside carousel boutique. Dave knocked politely and waited for Rarity to open the door. Her mane was already combed to perfection and she already had some makeup on

“P-princess Celestia, Dave, Nox?” She flapped her mouth before regaining her composure and bowed deeply “I apologise that I am not suitably prepared for your arrival”

Princess Celestia bowed her head “we aren’t here for royal reasons, Dave forgot his clothes” She smiled as Dave smiled with guilt. Rarity allowed the trio in as she allowed Dave to get dressed in her changing room

Celestia sat on the sofa as she looked through Rarity’s dresses, the white unicorn was more than happy to show some of the outfits as the pair delved into simple conversations.

Nox meanwhile rolled his eyes as both the mares began to talk about dresses for a gala. The grey colt’s boredom was smashed as a familiar filly walked into the room

“Rarity can I have some money for some food on the way to… oh” She stopped as she noticed Princess Celestia and Nox were also in the boutique, she bowed deeply to Celestia before being told to rise

Celestia smiled “I am only here as a friend, not a royal” Her eyes shifted over to Nox who nervously played with his tail “Have you met my son Nox?”

“Yes, yesterday when Dave came over” Sweetie Belle smiled “He is really good at drawing” she did not notice Nox’s face burn red as he blushed. It didn't last long though as he took a deep breath

Nox swallowed his fear as he left his corner of the room “Thanks, I liked your drawing too” his newfound smile vanished as Sweetie Belle and Rarity gawped

“H-how? When did he learn?” Rarity’s brain struggled to comprehend the change that occurred to the colt she had only met yesterday

Dave chuckled as he stepped out of the changing room, checking his new attire out in a mirror. Blue jeans hung comfortably down to his heels whilst his collarbone was visible above a loose, white shirt. He moved his feet around his spacious shoes that gave plenty of grip. Finally, Dave could allow his green, dragonscale trench coat to sway around his shins rather than wear it like a dressing gown on a cold night

“Yesterday” The happy human responded “Thanks for these, I’ll try to take care of these better than the last set” He shook his body before sitting down beside Celestia “You like?” He joked

“Very much so” Celestia smiled as she leaned over and gave Dave another kiss. Rarity smiled at the romance whilst Sweetie Belle and Nox both made fake gagging noises

Rarity glared at her younger sister before calming “So what were you going to ask Sweetie Belle?”

The filly tapped her chin before bouncing over to her big sister with a grin on her face “Can I have some money to get some food on the way to school?”

“Yes I should have some in my…” Rarity was cut of as Dave gasped and fist pumped the air “What’s the matter dear?”

“Idea that can't go wrong!” Dave cheered, “Nox should go to school!”

Celestia’s smile grew until it suddenly failed “There are hundreds of things that can go wrong but I get the feeling we are going to go with it anyway”

Chapter 13

Dave and Celestia walked behind Nox and Sweetie Belle. Whilst the two children talked and laughed, the older alicorn and human both had mixed expressions

Celestia bit her tongue nervously “Are you sure this is a good idea?” she stayed close to Dave’s side as they walked towards the school

“Not entirely” Dave scratched his head “but at least he can start learning and interact with others his age” Dave wrapped an arm around the nervous Celestia “If he doesn’t like it then we will take him out, he has all of eternity to learn”

The princess of the sun nodded “I suppose you are right” She smiled down at her son “I am just getting used to the fact that he has grown up so fast” She rested her head on Dave’s shoulder as they made their way to the school’s front door

Sweetie Belle pushed the door open and stepped inside with Nox “Miss Cherilee?” she looked around and saw her dark purple teacher setting up some paints at the side of the classroom

“Oh Sweetie Belle you’re here early” The pink maned mare smiled at her student before her eyes moved over to the grey colt beside her “And who is your friend here?” her happiness switched to confusion as she noticed the unicorn also possessed wings

Celestia stepped into the school with Dave close behind “This is my son Noxporta, I understand that this may be quite a shock so it would be advisable if you could… blast” Celestia sighed as Cherilee tipped over and slumped to the floor

“Ponies seem to like fainting recently” Dave groaned as he looked around the large classroom “It would be great if she woke up soon, I’m already starting to get flashbacks of my school days” he shuddered as he saw what looked like physic equations on the blackboard “At least if you don’t know the answer you could always say magic”

Nox looked around the alien environment and let out a faint gulp “Why do I get the feeling that bad things are going to happen?” his nerves shook until Dave knelt beside him

“Hey, me and your mum are going to get you at the end of the day” Dave hugged the nervous colt “We will never leave you” Dave placed Nox back on the ground “You will only be here a few hours, Sweetie Belle will be here and Miss… unconscious pony will make sure nothing bad happens”

Nox looked between Celestia and Dave before finally nodding “Alright dad, I’ll stay here until you come back” He hugged Celestia before she left with Dave, leaving him alone with Sweetie Belle and the unconscious teacher

“Miss Cherilee normally has a few spare desks in the store cupboard” Sweetie Belle walked over to the door near the teacher’s desk at the far end of the room. She pushed it open using one of her white hooves before peeking inside “Here’s one!” she called

Nox hurried over and poked his head into the store cupboard, shelves were filled with a mix of books, paints, pens and paper. At the side of the store cupboard a few desks were piled up with a few chairs stacked next to them

Sweetie Belle looked at Nox “Can you use magic yet?” She hummed as Nox shrugged “Well I should be able to get these without much too much trouble” She smiled reassuringly as her horn began to glow, a single chair and table floated up and into the classroom before dropping to the floor. Sweetie Belle panted a little before quickly regaining her composure

Nox easily pushed the table and chair into line with the front row of tables at the front of the classroom. His attention was brought back to Cherilee that was just regaining consciousness

“That was so strange” Cherilee rubbed her head as she got to her hooves, she looked around at Nox and Sweetie Belle before taking a deep breath “So, I take it that you are joining my school?” the shaken teacher sat behind her desk “I’m sorry if I act a little strange… never had to teach royalty before”

Nox nervously smiled at the teacher “I-I don’t really know what I should do” Nox tapped his hooves together as he looked at Sweetie Belle “Sweetie Belle is the only other pony I know that is my age… at the moment”

“Well would you like to sit next to Sweetie Belle?” Cherilee looked to Sweetie Belle for a sign of conformation that it was ok with her. She missed the large blush that spread across Nox’s face as he avoided looking at the unicorn next to him

“W-well I suppose that it would be ok” Nox jumped as the door slammed open and an orange Pegasus and a yellow earth pony ran in. They both walked strait to Sweetie Belle and Cherilee, missing the colt that sat only a few feet away

“DAVE AND PRINCESS CELESTIA!” Scootaloo cheered as she hopped in the air “I knew the party yesterday was for something big but I didn’t realize they were both in town!”

Applebloom had an equally large grin on her face “They were hugging’ and they looked so happy to be back!” she bounced around excitedly until she noticed something out of the corner of her eye, she turned to see a grey colt nervously hiding behind his wings “H-hello?”

The wings dropped slightly to reveal a grand horn and a nervous eye. Sweetie Belle smiled reassuringly until Nox finally dropped his wings to completely reveal himself, his panicked breathing finally returning to normal

“Hey” Nox tapped his hooves together as the new fillies stared at him “Y-yes I am an alicorn, Celestia is my mom and Dave is my dad” He sighed as the girls exchanged confused looks “My name is Nox, what’s yours?”

Scootaloo bounced forwards and shook Nox’s hoof “I’m Scootaloo and this is Applebloom, so you are Dave and Celestia’s son?” she sat down as she tilted her head “How old are you?”

“T-three days” Nox winced slightly at the various gasps of shock “I don’t get why everypony is so shocked” He shrugged “I’m just going to take my seat”

Nox carefully stepped around the three fillies as he sat in his chair and gazed out the window. Scootaloo took a seat a few places away whilst Applebloom dragged Sweetie Belle to the side of the classroom, the earth pony glanced at the new alicorn before looking to her unicorn friend

“That’s Dave’s son?” Applebloom stared at Sweetie Belle until the unicorn nodded. Applebloom tapped her chin before blushing slightly “Y-you don’t mind if I sit next to him do you? I mean you have gotten ta know him a bit better than I have so I would like ta chat with him”

Sweetie Belle smiled “Of course, I’m just glad that you didn’t faint like I did when I first met him” Sweetie Belle sat next to Scootaloo whilst Applebloom sat next to Nox, his gaze moved past her to Sweetie Belle before giving the earth pony next to him a small smile

The children all turned their heads as a group of fillies and colts swarmed in, all laughing and talking to each other. The group all made way for a pair of fillies that had their heads held high. One was grey with a slightly lighter mane, a pair of expensive glasses covered her eyes whilst the other was pink with a violet mane, a single streak of white was complimented by a diamond tiara

Applebloom leaned over to Nox “The glasses is called Silver Spoon and the big head is called Diamond Tiara,” She whispered before sitting up strait again

“Urgh that party yesterday was so disgusting, why would anypony want to party in the streets with other common rabble” Diamond Tiara sat in the seat behind Nox, obviously she failed to notice him due to her self-absorbed nature

Scootaloo was already gritting her teeth as Silver Spoon nodded in agreement “I can guarantee that a trio of blank flanks went” She rose an eyebrow to the Cutie Mark Crusaders as she giggled with her upper-class friend

Nox nervously pulled a wing around himself and used his hooves to play with his feathers “I have a blank flank” he whispered to himself as he looked down at his clear grey flank

“Good morning students!” Cherilee called and the class responded her “We have a new student joining our class so I hope you all give him a warm welcome” she gave a reassuring smile to Nox before addressing her class again “Our first lesson today is arts and crafts, you can work in pairs and the equipment is on the side”

Nox peeked over at Sweetie Belle but saw that she was already moving to sit with Scootaloo, his eyes moved again to see Applebloom shuffling her seat so she was at the same table as him

“Ya don’t mind if I work with you do ya?” She smiled nervously, a hint of red graced her cheeks as Nox smiled back

“Uh… no I don’t mind” He chuckled nervously “I’m glad somepony wants to work with me” He sighed as Applebloom went to get the equipment, his voice dropped to a whisper as he saw the chaos of children rushing to get their hooves on paints “at least nopony noticed I’m an alicorn yet”

As Applebloom returned with paints and paper, Nox began to trace a landscape with a pencil on his sheet of paper. He began to draw a mountain range before an annoying posh voice filled his ears again

“Oh I didn’t realize we had another blank flank in this school” Diamond Tiara pointed at Nox “It looks like the Cutie Mark Failures might get another member,” She laughed along with Silver Spoon and a few other classmates. Cherilee merely rolled her eyes as another argument was going to break out

Applebloom instantly snapped “Leave Nox alone ya!” She glared at Diamond Tiara “It’s no wonder ya have almost no friends with your sour attitude!”

“At least her friends have some quality behind them!” Silver Spoon snorted, “What are you three?” She smirked at each of the Cutie Mark Crusaders “Smellyloo, Stinkie Bum and AppleBog!”

“Shut up” Nox growled loud enough for everypony to hear, his head was hung low so his mane shadowed his eyes. His hooves were gripping the table as he shivered

Diamond Tiara gasped, “Did you tell us to shut up?” she snarled at the grey colt in front of her “What kind of peasant are you to say that to me?”

Cherilee gawped, her hoof instantly went for the hipflask of cider she kept in her desk for emergencies. In this case, it would not go amiss

Nox’s wings spread open as he lifted into the air, turning so he could glare down at the two snobs that bullied him and his friends. The rest of the classmates gasped as they noticed the new colt was actually an alicorn. Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara both froze in horror as the colt glared at them

“You are both horrible and mean” Nox’s bottom lip quivered before his face turned into a snarl “If I hear you say anything mean about me or my friends again then I will…”

“We are sorry! We didn’t know that you are an ali…”Silver Spoon tried to interrupt by begging

Nox glared down at her “SHUT UP!” He yelled at the top of his lungs, his royal voice kicked in and blasted the windows out of the buildings. Silver Spoon’s glasses shattered and Diamond Tiara’s tiara cracked as Nox’s hate filled voice brought sheer anger upon them

As the grey alicorn blasted the room with his shout, his horn released a faint red wisp, the tiny red cloud turned black as it escaped Nox’s horn. The colt suddenly shook in the air before being launched against the wall and slumping to the floor

The Cutie Mark Crusaders all hurried around Nox as his eyes flickered shut. Applebloom’s face tightened in anger as she leapt at Diamond Tiara, swiping with her hooves

“Look what ya did!” She roared as she was dragged away from her target. She broke free of the classmates that were restraining her and hurried to Nox’s side “Please be ok” She whispered as she nuzzled his head

Meanwhile…

Celestia was sipping her tea as Twilight showed her some of her latest discoveries and small inventions. Dave was poking through some books and occasionally picked one up to have a small read before returning it to the shelf

“You have definitely rearranged these shelves” Dave sighed, “I mean I like everything in size order but I think that alphabetical order is better” He tapped his chin as Twilight pouted playfully

Celestia rolled her eyes “Ignore him, he is just worried that his son is at school” She sipped her tea again as Dave held his hands up

“Hey when I went to school for the first time it was terrifying!” He folded his arms as he returned to looking at the shelves “I thought that my mom didn’t care but hey… I know that she was actually just as terrified as I am”

Twilight smiled “You know, if you weren’t so… you, then that might have been sweet” She laughed as Dave shook his head “School is only a few hours long so you will get to see him again soon” She returned to showing Celestia her latest design for a spell

“Yeah I hope that…” Dave stopped as his chest tightened, his throat seized as a black fog rolled out of his mouth, it hovered by his face until another cluster of black smoke joined it. It swirled before a bolt of red lightning slammed Dave against the shelves and it escaped through an open window

Celestia and Twilight whipped their heads around in time to see Dave be buried under a pile of books, Twilight began to use her magic to lift them individually whilst Celestia brushed them aside with a single blast

“DAVE!” She yelled as she held his motionless body, Celestia shook him until he let out a cough. Her faithful student looked around for the attacker but hummed when she saw no evidence of anypony else in the library

Meanwhile…

The tiny black fog raced into the air, it slowed as it reached the edge of space, a few embers split from the main body but quickly faded.

Suddenly, one of the stars in the vast emptiness of space flickered and released a large beam of red light. It struck the black fog and caused it to swell, twisting and shaking as it became monstrous in size, and the blackness slowly became accompanied by the faint pulsing of crimson

The large mass began to spin, its speed increasing with each rotation until it rocketed downwards towards the ground, becoming longer and thinner as it reached the clouds and neared the ground

The fog pierced the ground and burrowed through the dense earth, racing through abandoned mineshafts and diamond dog burrows. It raced through dirt, clay and rocks with ease. It finally reached a thick black material, the fog twisted at its discovery and began to spread itself throughout the gooey material

The sound of buzzing around the fog only spurred it on as it hunted for its target. The fog finally reached a leathery surface and paused. The fog glowed a bright red as it stared at the yellow surface before it

When the yellow sack shook and turned black the fog forced its way inside. A loud scream accompanied the invasion as the egg sack pulsed and squirmed, the changeling princess attached screamed in agony

The changing queen burst through the wall at the sound of her younger sister’s distress “Larva! What is happening?” The queen gawped at the egg sack that produced her changeling swarm “What is wrong with the egg sack?”

“Chrysalis help me!” Princess Larva cried “the sack has been different ever since that… that HUMAN!” She winced as a large black spike stabbed out of the sack, a spray of yellow pus covered the floor

Chrysalis shuddered as her sister began to beg for anything that could take the pain away. The changeling queen’s eyes widened as the spike cut a large hole in the sack and a long bony leg stepped out followed by a black, exoskeleton

The sack returned to yellow as the large, broad head finally pushed itself out of the sack, the large ridge was easily twice the size of chrysalis whilst the rest of the monster’s body made her feel like a weak kitten. A large oval gem that was set into the creature’s skull sparked to life and filled with a dark crimson glow

A long bladed tail shook lazily from side to side as the giant, mutated changeling snarled down at the queen. Its red eyes were joined by a wide mouth that was filled of jagged and uneven teeth.

“What kind of abomination are you?” Queen Chrysalis shuddered as the creature smiled at her, its eyes unsettled her and his voice sent a shiver down her spine. However, as she recognised the voice her own face was met by a sly grin

“It is nice to meet you again Queen Chrysalis” Odio chuckled “I have very recently found out that you have a war with gryphons on your holey hooves” His smile grew as the swarm of changelings in the hive rejoiced at the addition of their newest member “I would like to speed up… negotiations”

Chapter 14

Dave yawned as he opened his eyes, his hands moved to rub his eyes but were blocked by a pair of white hooves. He looked down to find Celestia holding onto him, both her hooves wrapped around his chest as he laid on the sofa, his feet dangling off the edge

“Uh… how did I get here?” Dave looked around quizzically as Celestia looked up at his confused face. He did not have time to repeat the question as Celestia slammed their lips together

Twilight entered the room and let out a small sigh of relief “After you had the books fall on you we made you more comfortable” she allowed Celestia to release Dave from her lips before continuing “Did you see what attacked you?”

“Attacked?” Dave scratched his head “All I remember was dropping Nox off at school before Celestia suggested we come here” The human ran his fingers through his hair “I don’t remember any attack”

Celestia shared a worried look with Twilight before she resumed nuzzling Dave’s head “It’s alright now, whatever it is that attacked you has gone” she whispered reassuringly whilst Dave hugged her uneasily

“OK, I am fine now” Dave sat up and got to his feet “When does the school day end here anyway?” He looked at Twilight as she suddenly snapped out of her own thoughts

The purple unicorn looked at the clock that rested on her wall “School ends about two… but I am sure Miss Cherilee won’t mind you taking him out half an hour early” She nodded as Dave and Celestia said their goodbyes and made their way to the school outside of town

As Dave happily walked down the street, he continued to reassure Celestia that he was fine. The princess of the sun still had a worried look on her face as they reached the school gate. That is until the school door opened and Scootaloo leapt at Dave

“Nox is hurt!” She called in a frantic tone as she reached the couple. Celestia’s concerned face turned to horror as she darted for the school whilst Dave’s laid-back attitude disappeared as he grabbed Scootaloo

“What happened?” He growled as he held the filly “Was there a large earth pony or a purple Pegasus? Tell me!” He growled as Scootaloo shied away from the angry human

“He started yelling at Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon before he just… passed out” Scootaloo shuddered as Dave’s lips curled into a murderous snarl “I’m sorry if it was our fault, we didn’t mean to do anything”

Dave released Scootaloo as he hurried into the school and pushed past the schoolchildren to kneel by Celestia. He let out a sigh of relief as Nox’s eyes shot open and he wiggled free of his mother’s grasp

“Where am I?” He looked around at the classroom and the crowd of students, Applebloom and Sweetie Belle were both sat next to him as he looked back to his parents “Is this that school you talked about?”

Celestia looked at Dave “He seems to have forgotten things as well” She sighed as she looked at the Cutie Mark Crusaders “Did Nox do anything strange?”

“No… but his voice got really loud, like Princess Luna did during Nightmare Night” Applebloom pointed to the broken glass that was swept to a corner of the room “And when he was yelling he just flew across the room and collapsed”

Dave scratched his chin “It sounds similar to my attack… maybe it was because he went all megaphone that we were both knocked out” he shrugged as Celestia hummed “I mean a lot of weird things happen to me so maybe Nox and I are connected in some way”

“Maybe” Celestia muttered as she continued to scan her son for any signs of injury, when her search revealed nothing she finally allowed herself to relax

The already uneasy group inside the school jumped as the door slammed open “Dave and Princess Celestia, come with us, we have a problem” Strong Shield stood in the doorway, Adamas’ large eye was visible behind him

“Urgh, what now?” Dave groaned as he looked at the serious unicorn “I am already dealing with one mysterious problem, I’m not sure I could actually handle two”

Adamas moved his head closer to the school “The changelings have called for a meeting with the gryphons, I need two beings to accompany me” his eye hovered over Dave until he groaned again

“I’m guessing that is why you brought my dad along” Dave shrugged as he looked at Celestia “You don’t mind if I go play ambassador do you?” he smiled as Celestia gave him a light kiss

“Not at all, just make sure Strong Shield and Adamas fill you in on the details” she held Nox close to her as she gave a reassuring smile “I will see you back at Canterlot?”

“Of course” Dave hugged Celestia and Nox before hurrying outside and climbing onto Adamas’ back, Strong Shield found a way to sit on the dragon’s back as they took to the skies. Dave looked around to Strong Shield as the dragon levelled out “What are we expecting?”

“Each speaker in the talks can bring two beings to accompany them, to assist or for intimidation purposes” Strong Shield pointed to Dave “You will be filling the latter role”

Dave opened his mouth to complain but was cut off by Adamas “Queen Chrysalis normally brings two random changelings whilst General Talon will be accompanied by Bishop Ruffles and Elite Vix”

“Bishop Ruffles?” Dave sniggered

“Vix?” Strong Shield rolled his eye “You mean that birdbrain is still holding the title of elite?”

Dave put his private giggling aside “It seems your past keeps cropping up” he sighed

Strong Shield shot Dave a glare to remind him not to talk about Battering Ram or Flux before relaxing again. “Vix was a young, brash but very talented soldier in the gryphon special forces” he avoided looking at Dave as he hung his head in shame “It wasn’t one of my better moments as a guard, needless to say my reputation took a dip”

“So I take it her went all super soldier on you” Dave shrugged “I mean we all lose a fight now and again, don’t beat yourself up”

“I didn‘t lose” Strong Shield sighed “He attempted to hit me so I may of accidentally burnt his face and made sure he has to wear a mask for the rest of his life” the black unicorn shrugged “He never got over it so he became a ruthless… what’s that word?”

“A dick?” Dave suggested “Either that or a douche”

Strong Shield shook his head “I was thinking of warrior because he went to every extreme to gain the title of Elite, the best in the gryphon army”

“But the gryphon army are mainly private security or border patrol” Adamas smirked “I guess it wasn’t hard because he doesn’t seemed to have changed much from your description” the diamond dragon turned towards a large circular cloud “But I am still confused on why the changelings have called for another meeting”

“Well I am flattered that I have been brought along but I don’t see how much help I can be sitting on your back” Dave nervously looked down at the ground far below “I can’t walk on clouds and I don’t want to turn into a pancake”

Adamas slowed his approach to the cloud as he perched himself on the edge, his tail dangling over the edge “The cloud has magical properties, your body rejects magic so you should be able to walk on it”

Dave groaned as he slowly slid off the dragon’s back and landed on the spongy cloud. He bounced a bit to reassure himself before finally sitting down next to the dragon. Strong Shield sat down the other side of the diamond dragon as the sound of wing beats slowly grew in intensity

With a loud roar, three gryphons landed on the cloud and took their positions. The one that sat in the middle was obviously General Talon as his large red sash was coated in small pieces of decorative medals. The one on his left wore a large golden mask that stretched around his head, his amber eyes were fixed on Dave. Finally, the one to the right was adjusting a silk cap that was attached to two long, white strips that floated in the air, his slightly thicker feathers gave the impression that he was soft and gentle

“Why does that blasted bug call for a meeting then fail to show her face?” Talon growled as his tail swished from side to side. His eyes moved over to Adamas and his two accomplices “Ambassador Adamas, would you mind introducing these two?”

The dragon nodded “This is Strong Shield, former guard and this is his adoptive son Dave, partner of Princess Celestia” Adamas watched the change in reactions from the three gryphons. Talon and Ruffles both Smiled at Dave whilst Vix turned his head away

General Talon marched over and shook Dave’s hand “Well it is certainly an honour to meet you Dave” the gryphon grasped Dave’s hand as the human gently attempted to pull away “I thought you were dead or has rumours became even more ludicrous?”

“Yeah I was dead but… to got a bit boring so I decided to come back” Dave chuckled as Talon nodded understandingly

“Death is for those that have found every way to kill their enemies” Talon sighed, “I believe that you were brought back for a greater purpose than to deal with the squabbles of bugs and beasts,” the gryphon returned to his seat before whispering something to Vix

Dave looked down at his numb hand “Yeah well if I get dragged into another adventure that ends badly then I will be pissed” The human looked over at Strong Shield “Will everything be alright?”

“It will be soon Dave” Strong Shield frowned as a dull buzzing noise became suddenly apparent “We just have to deal with this first”

The changeling queen appeared and landed on the cloud, she took her position as she glared at the Gryphons opposite her. Dave tried to look away but was surprised when Chrysalis gave him a wink

The buzzing continued until Princess Larva joined her sister, her yellow mane was neatly combed and looked like she had tried to make herself presentable. She snarled at the gryphons that were responsible for the deaths of her children, when her gaze swept across to Dave she suddenly gave him a warm smile

Dave rolled his eyes at the royal changelings, he caught a glimpse of the gryphon general giving him a curious stare. However, everyone's jaws dropped as the final changeling landed on the cloud, its size made Adamas give it a cold stare whilst the gryphons whispered amongst themselves

The different form of Changeling unsettled the gryphons, its larger size would mean that it was stronger and could be a potential threat. Dave chuckled to himself whilst Adamas looked down at the creature that was twice the size of a manticore

“There was a film on my world called Aliens,” Dave whispered to the dragon “That one looks like a more badass version of the xenomorph queen” Dave sighed as he reminisced about the classic films and allowed the group to start the negotiations

"Now that we are all gathered I think that some introductions are in order" Adamas swept his claw at the new faces "the gryphons remain the same but why did you feel the need to bring your sister?"

Queen Chrysalis stood as she addressed the dragon "My sister has as much right to be here as I do, she asked if she could accompany me as the egg sack has been damaged"

"What a shame" Talon sighed sarcastically "it will be hard to sleep knowing that you roaches are suffering"

Princess Larva growled as she stood and marched into the middle of the cloud. "How dare you! If you weren't so selfish to try and impress everyone then you might actually do something good!"

Vix stood and positioned himself in front of the princess, his cold eyes matched hers as he growled in an effort to intimidate her "Don't talk to the general like that," he snarled from behind the mask

Adamas groaned "peacekeeper, can you diffuse this situation?" he rolled his eyes to Strong Shield as the unicorn made his way to the middle of the cloud

"Elite Vix please return to your General's side" His calm attitude was met with a short roar before the gryphon returned to his seat, his eyes fixed on the hulking changeling that sat beside its queen

Princess Larva returned to her sister's side and whispered in her ear. All the changeling's eyes moved over to Dave before Queen Chrysalis stood and walked in front of the diamond dragon

"Ambassador Adamas, my I call for a short break? My sister is feeling weary and being intimidated by a thug isn't helping" the queen looked at the dragon's companions "if you feel the need to send your... Assistants then please make sure that they do so without a vile tongue"

Adamas nodded "if the gryphons have no issue with taking a few minutes of privacy then I will allow it"
General Talon snorted before taking his two followers to another cloud. The behemoth seemed to fall asleep as the queen and princess moved to the far end of the cloud

Strong Shield looked across to Dave “Would you like me to check on the changelings?” the unicorn moved to get to his hooves but Dave beat him to it

“Nah I got this” Dave smiled as he walked past the resting giant and approached the queen and princess “Is everything alright?”

Queen Chrysalis turned to face Dave “Well I hoped that my sister would find some answers by coming to these talks but obviously the gryphons just like to kill” the changeling glanced at her sister before frowning at Dave

“Well I am sorry that the gryphons are brutes but I’m sure that there must be some way for you to coexist with them,” Dave indicated to Strong Shield “They get on alright with ponies”

Chrysalis rolled her eyes “Because the ponies have a modern society, live in houses and have schools means that they are worthy allies” The tall changeling glanced at the sleeping changeling “But if we were to obtain a large enough force then they would back down”

Dave shrugged “Well it sounds like a problem but I am sure that you will figure something out, I mean you both have HEY!” Dave gasped as Princess Larva grabbed him and pulled him behind the large changeling, using it as cover from the dragon and unicorn

Adamas snarled, “What do you think you are doing?” The dragon frowned at the only royal he could see “Are you alright Dave?”

“Yeah I’m fine!” He responded from behind the large changeling “They just wanted a private word!” he said in a happy tone before his voice dropped to a whisper “Ok why the hell are you on top of me?” he growled to the princess sitting on his chest

Larva placed her hooves on Dave’s chest as Queen Chrysalis moved her head above his “We know how to get the gryphons to leave us alone but we need love” The changeling queen kissed Dave’s cheek “We recently discovered that your love for Celestia is very…” She glanced at the behemoth “Potent”

Dave shook his head “What? So you want me to give you love?” he chuckled when the queen and princess nodded in unison “Well then you are fucking crazy if you think I would cheat on Celestia!”

“How’s your son?” Larva sighed, “We managed to get a changeling into Ponyville, he knows about your son and is waiting for us to tell him what to do” she dipped her head sadly, “I’m sorry that we have to do this but we must survive”

Dave sat up and pushed Larva aside “If anypony or anything harms my son then I will help the gryphons burn you all alive!” he snarled. His low growling only grew louder as Chrysalis wrapped her hooves around Dave’s neck

“We will be forever in your debt if you just allow us to take what we need” The queen whispered soothingly into Dave’s ear “Don’t you remember how good it felt the last time you allowed me to grace your being?”

“I choked on a five foot tongue” Dave released himself and turned to face the queen “Why would I want to let that happen again?”

Chrysalis moved forwards and stopped a few inches from Dave’s face “Nopony truly gets over us” She whispered as she moved closer “Besides, technically it can be either of us that enters the other” she gently pressed her lips against Dave’s. The kiss lasted for a minute before Dave shoved the Queen away

“Ok now I know you are crazy” Dave poked the queen “I am never going to sleep with you” He glared at Larva “And I am never going to sleep with you either! NEVER!”

Queen Chrysalis laughed as she sat up again “Then why did you let me kiss you if there was nothing?” she smiled as she approached Dave again “If we truly didn’t have feelings then you wouldn't have told Ambassador Adamas that you were ok”

“Well I was wondering if…” Dave fell silent before frowning “I don’t like you, love you and I certainly don’t want any interaction with you” he folded his arms as he looked away

“Not yet” Chrysalis smiled “But we both know that what I can offer you is greater than anything Celestia can give you”

Dave snarled as he grabbed Chrysalis’ throat “Don’t you dare say her name!” He growled as he watched the queen smile again, “What is so funny?”

“Where is your other hand?” She smirked as Dave looked down and saw his other hand reaching around the queen’s back “Changeling royalty…” Chrysalis and Larva smiled at Dave with a mix of desire and arrogance “We are irresistible”

Chapter 15

Queen Chrysalis stroked Dave’s chest as Princess Larva nibbled on his ear. Dave pushed the princess away but she returned with a greater sense of lust and need. Chrysalis held her mouth close to Dave’s as she forced him to share their breaths

“You are attracted to power, plenty of creatures are” Chrysalis inspected Dave’s body “You are VERY powerful, that’s what my sister and I look for when we choose our prey” Larva hummed in response as she inched her body closer

Dave snorted, “So I’m prey now? A food source for your army?” He attempted to push Larva away again but she manoeuvred herself so the push sailed past her head and allowed her to hold her head under Dave’s chin

Larva sighed, “Chrysalis and I are both grateful that you gave enough love to restore me” She looked up with hopeful eyes “All we ask is that you do the same for the rest of our race”

“We will accept any and all conditions you want and it shall only be us that holds you” Chrysalis stroked Dave’s cheek as she whispered into his ear “You could be our king and we would be your queens” she rested her head against Dave’s face “It may be strange to hear this but… we care for you”

“Bullshit” Dave spat as he pushed both the changelings away “You want an army and I can provide results” he prevented Larva from grabbing him by raising his foot to keep her away “I am not a sperm bank”

Chrysalis sighed “You saved my sister, I am in your debt and you are rejecting the offer of becoming a king” She shook her head as she looked at Dave in disgust “Do you think Celestia would allow you to even have a title? Power?”

“I love Celestia even if I held the title of castle jester” Dave frowned at the queen “I don’t want to be lord of the flies, I don’t want to be King Dave, I just want you to leave me alone” His intimidating snarl proved ineffective as Chrysalis approached him again

Chrysalis used a hoof to move her mane behind her ear as she looked sadly at Dave “I know our disguises don’t work near you, not even for a second” She inched closer as she looked at Dave’s lips “We can’t trick you and we don’t want to” her lips parted as she approached Dave’s mouth “We need love and are willing to give ours to you”

She paused before kissing Dave, their lips stayed together until the changeling pulled away. Larva sighed before leaving, sitting next to the head of her giant changeling. Chrysalis glanced into Dave’s eyes again before kissing him again, lightly prodding her tongue against his closed lips

Dave’s mouth unwillingly opened and allowed the queen’s tongue to explore the new environment. As the human felt the tongue that was used for draining love go deeper than he was comfortable with, he began to prepare himself to bite it off. To Dave’s surprise, Chrysalis pulled her tongue back and gently explored the area around Dave’s tongue, retreating anytime Dave showed any hint of discomfort

Chrysalis used her tongue to rest on top of Dave’s tongue, slowly pulling away to entice him to follow her into her mouth. It succeeded as Dave began exploring Chrysalis’ mouth, gently fighting against her tongue as she slowly draped her hooves over Dave’s neck

Dave’s eyes were fully closed as he kissed the changeling, his mouth finally pulled apart as he began to gently kiss her neck. Chrysalis moaned as Dave’s mouth kissed her softly “I love you Dave” she sighed in Celestia’s voice

Dave’s eyes shot open as he realized what he was doing and he quickly shoved the changeling off him. He slapped himself as his face twisted in anger and disgust, his glare moved to the queen that was just recently allowing him to kiss her

“You are good at deception I will admit” Dave wiped his mouth “I love Celestia and I will never be unfaithful, no matter how good your smutty tricks get” He groaned as he realized how far he went “Why the hell couldn’t I stop myself?” he groaned as he dropped his head into his hands

Chrysalis sat down next to Dave as she bumped against him “I put on Celestia’s voice because I though it would make you comfortable” She sighed as Dave scowled at her “I apologize for that but not for you kissing me”

Dave got to his feet as he pointed at the queen “I hope the gryphons tear you apart” he snarled as he walked away, his eyes focused on the cloud he walked on as he returned to Adamas and Strong Shield

“Is everything alright?” Adamas asked as he saw the angry human, he shared a concerned look with Strong Shield before looking back to Dave

“Fan-fucking-tastic” Dave spat “Can you drop me off back at my house in Ponyville? Or do I have to jump of this cloud and walk there?”

Strong Shield frowned at Dave before it shifted over to Chrysalis and the other changelings “Did they do anything?”

Dave groaned, “No… they didn’t” he rubbed his face as he looked up at Adamas “I’m sorry for being angry but can I please leave?”

Adamas nodded as he picked the human up “I must be quick as the negotiations take priority” He placed Dave on his back as he dived off the cloud and opened his wings

Dave held onto Adamas as he spotted Ponyville on the horizon. He shook his head again to get the changeling queen out of his mind as Adamas slowly dipped to land at the house outside the town. Adamas hovered and allowed Dave to slide down his tail before departing to return to the negotiations

The annoyed human stomped into his house and slammed the door behind him, his anger was briefly delayed by the sound of eating coming from the kitchen. He walked into the kitchen only to let out another loud groan

“Now why the hell are you two in my house?” Dave yelled as he saw Battering Ram and Flux eating at the dinner table. Ram continued to eat as Flux wiped her mouth

“We came to talk, maybe release some stress by hurting you a bit” Flux shrugged “But I we will cut to the chase, do you know where the key is?” she met Dave’s glare as his lips curled into a snarl

“I don’t know where the key is or what is inside the vault you are looking for!” Dave yelled, “My dad knows, not me!”

Battering Ram shook his head “Strong Shield would never tell us unless he had a reason, so we are going to make him realize what else he could lose if he doesn’t cooperate” he joined Flux in staring at Dave as the human visibly shook with rage

“I DON’T GIVE A FUCK!” Dave clenched his fists as the two ponies got to their hooves “All I want is to live happily but you keep spying on me as well as the goddamn changelings and every other…” Dave went silent as an idea popped to mind “I’ll make you a deal”

Flux smiled “What are you offering and what do you want?” she sat down again as she smirked at Battering Ram

“There is a changeling in Ponyville, if it dies then I will get Strong Shield to tell you what is inside the vault you are looking for” Dave kept his face still as Flux nodded to Battering Ram

The purple Pegasus stood and extended a hoof to Dave “It will be done quite soon” she smiled “We won’t try to cheat you and we should be done in a day or two”

“Whatever” Dave shook Flux’s hoof before pointing to the dirty plates on the table “Finish your meals then get out” He snarled as he left the kitchen and stormed upstairs into his bedroom

Meanwhile…

Nox hopped around the corner and the guard saluted him. The grey colt hid again before diving out and receiving another salute. He stared at the guard in wonder before walking down the corridor, looking at the various windows and features

He soon found himself lost and in a corridor that seemed to look the same as the one he had just left, he looked around before he spotted a staircase that seemed to lead up into one of the tall towers. Shrugging, Nox hurried up the stairs and found himself standing in front of two guards and a large black door

“Umm… where am I?” Nox said to the guards standing next to the door “And what is this door?”

The guards glanced at each other before one finally stepped forth “This is the entrance to Princess Luna’s quarters” he saluted as Nox smiled “Would you like to see the royal highness?”

“Yeah!” Nox bounced happily “I haven’t seen Auntie Luna in days!” he eagerly waited as the guard knocked the door and informed the princess that she had a guest

Luna opened the door and smiled at Nox “Oh hello nephew, are you lost?” she smiled as she expected an overexcited nod

“I was but I would love to speak to you!” Nox bouncing stopped as Luna’s face froze “Is something wrong?”

“Y-you can talk?” She gasped as Nox rolled his eyes “I suppose that I am not the first to know” She looked at her two guards that stood as still as statues “You might as well come inside” Luna allowed the grey colt to step into her quarters before closing the door

Nox hopped onto the sofa and played with his tail “Why don’t I see you very often?” Nox looked up at the princess of the night as she sat down next to him

“Well your mother raises the sun and rules the day, I rule the night because I raise the moon” Luna shrugged “I sleep during the day which is why most ponies don’t see me that often” she sighed sadly as she gave a reassuring smile to Nox

The grey alicorn hugged his aunt “Is it ok if I can stay here for a while?” he looked up at Luna’s smiling face “I don’t want to leave you alone if it makes you sad”

Luna nuzzled the top of Nox’s head “Of course you can stay, I have a bit of time until my duty is required” She looked out the window to the setting sun “Would you like to talk about anything?”

Nox hummed “Well… what was my dad like? Before I was born?” He looked up as Luna’s smile suddenly faded “I-if you don’t want to talk I understand”

Luna shook her head “It’s alright” She sighed as she shook her head “He was confusing, caring and not to mention once of the nicest ponies err… beings I knew” she took a deep breath before continuing “We were in love, for a while before I ruined it”

Nox gasped “You and dad were in love?” he looked down at himself “But why is he with mommy if he loves you?” His confused look only grew as Luna wiped a tear from her eye

“We loved each other but I pushed him away out of fear” Luna hit a cushion with her hoof “But by the time I realized how special he was… he was in love with Celestia” she looked at Nox “And look what they made”

Nox shuddered as he hid behind his wings “I-I’m sorry if I made you angry” the grey colt held back tears “I didn't know it would make you upset if I was around” he gasped as Luna picked him up in a tight hug

“You should never think like that” Luna smiled as Nox held her back “You are the most beautiful thing that my sister has made and I am proud to be your aunt” the dark princess smiled at Nox “I don’t hate you, my sister or Dave”

Nox smiled back “I love you Auntie Luna” he sighed as he gave Luna the biggest hug he could “I hope that somepony can make you smile again”

“So do I” Luna smiled as she kept her bottom lip stiff “It will be night soon, would you like me to take you back to Cel… back to mommy?” she released Nox as he let out a yawn

Nox looked at the large comfortable bed in the room “Can I sleep here?” he rubbed his tired eyes as Luna nodded

“Of course, I’ll tell my sister so she won’t worry” Luna carried Nox over to bed before tucking him in “Sleep well Nox” She smiled as she kissed his head

“Good night Auntie Luna” Nox whispered as he drifted to sleep, the glow from Luna’s horn helped ease his drifting off as she raised the bright moon into the sky

Chapter 16

Dave sat up in bed, stretching until his back let out a faint crack. His eyes finally adjusted to the morning sun as he scratched his back, his happy sigh was cut short as he saw Flux and Battering Ram sat by a beaten stallion

“You do work fast” Dave climbed out of bed and grabbed the stallion “Now you are going to tell me everything you… Braeburn?” his hands released the earth pony, two black patches remained where Dave’s hands held the impostor

Flux tapped the changeling “The changeling got himself kidnapped by Pinkie Pie so he could join in during the street party” she nodded towards Battering Ram “He managed to find out that the real Braeburn is still in Appleoosa and has no idea that the party ever occurred”

Dave nodded as he glared at the changeling “This son of a bitch managed to infiltrate without any problem” his eyes moved to Battering Ram “Are there any more changelings?”

“None, this must have been special because the rest are busy back at their hive” Battering Ram picked the changeling up and wrapped his hoof around its head “Do you want to keep it?”

Dave sneered before shaking his head, Battering Ram nodded as he twisted the head around resulting in a loud snap. Flux raised a wing to block Dave’s path “So what is inside our vault?” she raised an eyebrow as Dave shrugged

“I assume that you will both be spying on me so I will let you know when you can come talk to me” He pushed the wing aside as he retrieved his clothes and quickly left the house, rolling his eyes as he looked back and saw Battering Ram throw the changeling’s corpse into some nearby bushes

Dave kept his eyes on the town ahead as he walked, his eyes refrained from scanning the skies for Adamas. A breeze rolled over the fields and brushed Dave’s face, the smell of flowers and morning dew graced his nose as he finally reached the edge of Ponyville

A few ponies that got up early to set up stalls and open shops gave Dave a few waves as he made his way through the town. Dave responded with weak nods, not pausing to chat or say hello. His course remained on the train station at the other end of town

Dave spotted the train pulling into the station so he ran the final few yards as he leapt onto the train, the driver looked around for the sudden passenger but smiled as he saw Dave. “Well hello again Dave the human” The driver tapped his hooves “I would love to let you ride for free but you did crash my train last time”

Dave smiled weakly “So how much do I owe you?” His smile faded as the driver gained a sly grin “Can I just give you some bits now and some later?”

The driver burst into laughter as he released the brakes and let the train pull away from the station “I know what was going on with ya” The driver wiped some sweat from his brow as he began shovelling coal into the train “Besides, I didn’t buy the train so I don’t mind”

Dave chuckled as he patted the driver’s back “You are a real buddy you know that?” he smiled before making his way into the carriage and sitting down at one of the tables

Meanwhile…

Queen Chrysalis hissed as she stormed into her throne room, the walls coiled around a central throne made of a dark jade stone. She dumped herself into the chair, her eyes hidden behind her long mane as Odio entered the wide, tall hall

Odio looked up at the round room before his eyes fell onto the queen sat in the centre. He was surprised that the changeling queen didn’t have a huge castle for her own use like Princess Celestia and Luna but instead settled with a room that was almost a large dome, the walls had plenty of cavities and holes where the queen could easily lay herself down or suspend some prey in the thick green gel she used to keep them fresh

“Well I admit that you made a big mistake by talking like Celestia” He sighed as he sat by the throne “But you had me convinced with that speech about how much you loved Dave and would indulge his every desire”

Chrysalis groaned as she turned away “Leave me” she sighed “I am in no mood for conversing with you” she played with the holes in her hooves as Odio ignored her command

The large changeling smiled as Chrysalis continued to sit in silence “I am right in assuming that you have no feelings for Dave?” Odio smirked as Chrysalis continued to be quiet “Well I knew you had some… fascination to him”

“Fascination?” Chrysalis snarled as she glared at Odio, “I am not obsessing over that ape!” she folded her hooves as she looked away “I was just… planning my next move”

Odio shook his head “No, you were wondering why Dave helped you for no reason, he didn’t have to and he did it without wanting to be repaid” he swished his bladed tail as Chrysalis slowly looked up at him “You were wondering if you would drain his love or allow him to share it with you”

“He thinks I am disgusting” Chrysalis sighed “I can never win his affection as long as he is with Princess Celestia” she held her head as she closed her eyes “I am a queen! I should not be trying to win the heart of a lesser creature”

“He loves Celestia that much is true” Odio tapped the soft ground with a claw “But he used to love Luna, and feelings never truly go away” he gently used his claw to raise the queen’s head “If you managed to kiss him then that must mean something”

The changeling queen sighed, “You tell me what I should do!” Chrysalis raised her voice until Odio moved away “If you are so powerful and wise, then why don’t you save my race?” she snarled until her lip began to quiver and she collapsed into her throne “I don’t want my changelings to die”

Odio let out a sympathetic sigh but his mouth formed another smile “I can’t save a race that I am not a part of, don’t forget that I am only using a body I formed in the egg sack” he hid his smile as Chrysalis looked at him “If you want to see how much Dave cares then you must get him when he is completely alone and show him that you aren‘t some power hungry tyrant”

“How can I if he is always with Celestia? Or some other pony?” Chrysalis hummed before she shook her head “I-I have an idea… No, I am not going to do it” she sighed, “It would be stupid if Celestia was still angry about the attack”

“I think she might hold a grudge like that” The large changeling stared down at the queen “but if you don’t do it then you may lose everything you have” Odio smiled as Chrysalis slowly nodded “So whatever this plan is… you have to consider it”

Meanwhile…

Dave hopped off the train and started walking through the streets of Canterlot, heading straight for the castle. Luckily, nopony was out walking the clean cobbled streets but Dave continued to head for the castle as quickly as he could

He reached the courtyard gates and the guards gladly let him in, nodding with smiles as he thanked them. He jogged up the stairs into the castle as he began his journey towards the guard barracks, sure enough, he spotted Strong Shield stepping out of a room

“Hey dad” Dave caught his breath as he stopped by the unicorn “Listen, I have to ask a major favour from you”

Strong Shield stared at Dave with his only eye “And what kind of favour is this?” he frowned as Dave scratched the back of his head “What have you done?” he growled

“There was a changeling in Ponyville and he was after Nox” Dave sighed as he took a final gulp “I struck a deal with Flux and Battering Ram” he admitted

Strong Shield snarled “What?” He advanced towards Dave and poked him with a hoof “What kind of deal was this?” his eye was full of a strange hatred as he looked at Dave

“If they got rid of the changeling that was threatening Nox then I would get you to tell them what is inside the vault” Dave shrugged “I was protecting my son, you can’t blame me for getting their help”

The black unicorn reluctantly nodded “You should have found me” he groaned as he rubbed his head “If I tell them then they won’t believe me” he shrugged before staring at the floor “I’ll tell them but it won’t end well”

“Good enough” Dave nodded “I will pay you back I swear” his smile lasted for a second before Strong Shield’s ears perked up

“That reminds me” The ex-guard looked at Dave “I found a small lead, I need you to help me either tonight or tomorrow night” he began to walk into the guard barracks as Dave followed him

Dave quickly caught up with Strong Shield as he avoided guards that were in their way to posts or to attend other duties “What kind of lead is it? Do we need to break into someponies house?”

Strong Shield led Dave down a corridor, the doors along each side led into various sleeping quarters for the guards. Strong Shield stopped at the final door, its wood was covered in mild scratches and was in a much worse condition than that of the other doors

“This was the recruits’ sleeping quarters” Strong Shield sighed as he unlocked the heavy door and made his way inside “this was where I met Battering Ram and Flux” he shook his head as he allowed Dave to walk in before locking it behind them

“So what do you want to show me?” Dave watched Strong Shield curiously as the pony made his way one of the bunks. Each of the walls had a small bunk attached to the wall except the one the door opened onto. Strong Shield went for the central one at the end of the room before pulling the mattress onto the floor

“Don’t move or make a sound” Strong Shield grabbed the edge of the bunk and lifted it so it was flat against the wall. He placed his hooves on two of the vertical metal bars, his eyes closed as his hooves gently rubbed each of the pieces of metal until a single sound could be heard from the resonating metal

Strong Shield’s horn glowed as he slammed the bunk into the wall, the floor beneath him shook as narrow gaps fell away. The unicorn backed off as the bunk fell into its old position before the entire frame fell into the stone floor and broke into sections

“What the hell is going on?” Dave shuffled behind Strong Shield as the bars each pushed a piece of the floor down until they made a neat set of steps, they continued to descend until a small hole in the wall was visible

Strong Shield walked down the short steps, his horn still visible even though he was at the bottom of the stairs. He placed his hoof into the wall and twisted it until the wall clicked, allowing the unicorn to push it aside

Dave dropped the short distance to the entrance than bother walking the ten steps down to the opening, he crouched so he could fit through the doorway. He stood up again as his jaw dropped “How the hell?”

His eyes were fixed on the large golden bowl in the centre of the room, lava slowly flowed through as it bathed the room in a warm glow. Strong Shield walked around the centrepiece to a wooden desk that sat against the wall, levitating a parchment over to Dave

“This is the plan, read it then destroy the parchment” Strong Shield walked over to one of the side doors as he stepped inside, the sound of rummaging ensued as Dave sat down to read

Target Location: Shade Nightclub

Nightclub owner: Vinyl Scratch, Aka: DJ Pon-3

Target: Swift Mix

Target Occupation: Bartender at Shade Nightclub

Target Description: Eyes-Cyan

Mane-Lime green

Body fur-Light purple

Cutie Mark-Alcoholic beverage containing two olives

Plan:

Step 1: Identify and isolate target in the nightclub’s VIPs’ area (target is know narcotics dealer)

Step 2: Strong Shield will gain information whilst Dave deals with any unwanted attention (Gang members)

Step 3: Regroup and make way back to Castle to take places at appropriate areas, Dave will be in Celestia’s quarters whilst Strong Shield shall be pretending to nurse a bottle of whiskey in the barracks

Step 4: Regroup in morning after breakfast to debrief and plan next course of action

Notes:
If Battering or Flux show up, inform Strong Shield so he can terminate threats

If Dave is not subtle about fighting then use excuse of ‘self defence’

If target ingests suicide pill then Dave will have to search the target’s body for any antidotes e.g. cavity search

If anything goes wrong, it is Dave’s fault

Final review:

Chance of success with Strong Shield: 90%

Chance of success with Dave: 30%

Total chance of success: 120%

Dave scrunched up the paper and threw it onto the lava “So basically if anything happens it is going to be pinned on me?”

“Basically” Strong Shield stepped out with a small patch “I will be wearing a slight disguise whilst I deal with the target so in case I am discovered then this disguise shall protect my identity” Strong Shield applied the patch to his left eye, it replaced the scar with a working eye and his fur and mane turned into a dull blond

Dave nodded “Alright so you have a magical disguise and I have bugger all” he shrugged as he watched the paper burn in the lava “What kind of drugs is this bartender selling?”

Strong Shield shook his head “Some cheap stuff called Ketamine, it is supposed to chill you out”

“Horse tranquilizers?” Dave roared with laughter as he walked past the disguised unicorn “Even this world’s crime is hilarious”

Chapter 17

Dave waited in the corridor as Strong Shield finished putting the room back to normal, he stepped out with his disguise removed and the magical patch was passed to Dave to hide under his shirt. They both left the barracks and made their way to the courtyard

Strong Shield took his disguise back from Dave before leaving the castle courtyard and out onto the streets of Canterlot. Dave looked around before jogging back into the castle and making his way for the dining hall

Dave entered the hall with a smile on his face, expecting to see Celestia and Nox waiting for him. Instead, Luna looked up from her dinner to look at him, her ears drooped as she returned to poking her food with a fork. Dave sighed before taking a seat next to Celestia’s golden chair, he glanced at Luna occasionally until his impatience got the better of him

“Do you know where Celestia and Nox are?” Dave asked plainly as Luna momentarily stopped playing with her food

“Tia took Nox to Nurse Redheart for a check-up,” She muttered to her food “I’m sure she will be here soon,” she whispered sadly to herself as Dave rolled his eyes

A few silent minutes passed as Dave continued to glance at the princess of the night. He let out a groan as he stood and made his way over to the dark alicorn, her face briefly looked at his until she hid it away again

“Ok this has to stop” Dave groaned as he sat down “I love Celestia, I have a child with her” he placed his hands on the table until Luna looked up at him “I know that your feelings won’t just disappear but… we can’t keep ignoring each other forever”

“Literally” Luna said with a chuckle that Dave matched “I love you and I doubt that it will change…” her smile faded again “But I don’t want you hating me”

Dave sighed as he stood and moved closer to the princess, his arms outstretched “Hugs?” he smiled as Luna smiled in return, her eyes watering slightly as she leapt into Dave’s arms, wrapping her hooves around his neck

Dave stroked the princess’ mane as she sank happily into his embrace, the small gesture providing massive relief and comfort to her. Dave let out a final sigh as he released Luna and placed her back into her chair before sitting back in his own

“So how was the peace talk?” Luna smiled as Dave’s face turned white “Were they that bad?”

Dave slowly nodded “They were… eventful” he chuckled as an image of Queen Chrysalis shot through his mind “Let’s just say that I wont be doing that ever again” he said with a tone of disgust

The dining room doors opened and Celestia walked in with Nox close beside her, they both smiled as they saw Dave and they both made their way to him. Nox hopped over the table and dived into his dad’s waiting arms whilst Celestia walked around and nuzzled her face against his cheek

“Well good morning” Dave said happily as he shared a quick kiss with the white alicorn before he looked at the grey colt in his arms “And how was your trip to the nurse?”

Nox shrugged “She seemed nice but then she tried to stab me!” he squealed, “It was really sharp and pointy” he scowled at the thought of the needle

Celestia chuckled “I told Nurse Redheart that it wouldn’t work but she insisted that she tried” She sat down at her chair at the head of the table “It was common knowledge that Nox was going to blast it with magic” she smiled to the servant that came in to take her order

Dave and Nox also gave their order as the servant took Luna’s clean plate away, the grey prince hopped into his own chair in preparation for his breakfast. He looked between his parents as his mind began to dwell on something that had been filling his thoughts for the past few days

“Dad?” he looked up as Dave smiled at him “How did you meet mom?” he played with his tail nervously as Dave smiled at Celestia as he held her hoof

“Well when she first met me it was due to a royal visit” Dave gently stroked Celestia’s hoof with his finger “We didn’t show any interest in each other when we met, she was a princess and I was from another world”

Celestia smiled “Needless to say I never expected it to have grown beyond that” she blushed as memories flooded back into her mind “But he always forgot to call me princess” she nuzzled his hand as Dave chuckled

“I was trying to be friendly, informal, but friendly” Dave smiled “But then we had that party at my house, I drank a barrel of cider and woke up next to the most beautiful thing in existence” he smiled as he kissed Celestia’s hoof

“I made a few bad choices, mainly out of fear and duty” the white alicorn sighed happily “But I always smiled when Dave came back” she bit her bottom lip as it slowly quivered “I regret being so cruel to him”

Dave shushed Celestia as he pulled her in for a hug “But that is all in the past, we have done loads of good since then and I hope we do more” he smiled as Celestia nuzzled against him

Nox smiled at his parents, a quick glance at the shy Luna made him return to his original thought “How do I get a girl to like me?” he groaned “There is this girl I like but I don’t know what to do”

Celestia shared an awkward look with Dave and Luna before sitting down and looking at her son “Listen Nox, love can be a truly wondrous thing” she smiled “But you are a bit different from normal ponies”

Nox growled “I hate being special, I just want to be happy” he sighed as he saw his mother’s disheartened face “I am happy with everything but… I just don’t like my life being unpredictable”

“Welcome to my life” Dave chuckled until Luna threw a napkin at him. He shrugged before rolling his eyes at the scowling princess “Alright Nox, just take a while until we are sure what is going to happen to you before you start making decisions like these”

“I agree,” Celestia nodded “Just take a little while to get used to everything before you make any commitments” she thanked the chefs that brought the food into the room “Who is this filly anyway?”

Nox rubbed his hooves nervously “it’s… Sweetie Belle” he admitted, “Since the day I saw her she was so… stunning and beautiful” he dropped his head to the table as he groaned “I just don’t think she sees me in that way”

“Well this conversation sounds like my area of expertise” Cadence called as she stepped into the room, her sudden appearance brought on a confused stare from Nox until his memory caught up

“You were at that party!” Nox cheered until he dropped his hooves and tapped his chin “But um… who are you?”

“Just Cadence will be fine” the princess of love smiled as she sat next to Nox’s chair “So you like Sweetie Belle?” she smiled as Nox reluctantly nodded “If she likes you then she will be just as nervous as you are”

“R-really?” Nox gasped “B-but why?”

Cadence shrugged “Love is a wondrous adventure that is full of mystery, it can take all shapes and forms as it graces every living creature, big or small” she sighed happily. Her daydream was broken as Nox tapped her gently

“But what do I do about Sweetie Belle?” he asked with concern, his eyes full of hope until they were quickly replaced with shock. The door swung open and a guard ran into the room

“Your highness, your highness, your highness, your highness, hey Dave” he bowed respectfully to each of the princesses and Nox before waving casually to Dave “The changeling queen is in the throne room and wants to see Princess Celestia”

The princesses shared looks of anger and hate, Nox looked around with confusion whilst Dave dropped his head into his hands. They all got to their hooves with haste as they hurried out the door, Dave meanwhile dragged himself to his feet as he forced himself to chase after the princesses.

Nox yelped as Dave grabbed him and carried him into the corridor, the sound of hooves from the princesses and various guards caused the corridors to echo with metal hitting marble. Dave finally caught up to the princesses as Cadence kicked the throne room door open

“YOU!” she snarled as Chrysalis turned her head to look at them, she sat in the centre of a wide ring of guards, each stared in horror as Cadence marched up to the changeling and slapped her across the face “How dare you come back after what you did”

Chrysalis allowed Cadence to slap her again and again until some guards finally pulled her away. The changeling queen walked over to Celestia and stopped a few feet away, her eyes danced over to Dave before they returned to Celestia

Chrysalis dropped to a bow before the princess of the sun as she released a stream of tears “I beg you to save my changelings, they weren’t responsible for the attack on Canterlot, I was, I only wanted to keep them alive and help my sister”

Luna stepped over and pushed the changeling onto her side “And why would we help you after you attacked my sister? Destroyed some of the city and almost ruined the royal wedding?”

Chrysalis glanced at Dave again before she looked up at Luna “I came here to be punished, to take responsibility for what I did” she shuddered at the gasps “I deserve the hate you give me but don’t use it to allow my race to be destroyed”

Celestia shared conflicted looks with the other princesses “Take her into the dungeon, we will deal with her later” she commanded. The queen changeling stood and allowed the guards to fasten her with chains and drag her to the dungeon

The princesses muttered amongst themselves whilst Dave held Nox reassuringly. The princess of the night finally decided to retire to her quarters, the other two stepped over to Dave and Nox

“I hate to ask this of you but… can you see if you can intimidate her into revealing her plan?” Celestia sighed as Nox hopped onto her back “Cadence and I are going to Ponyville to make a short visit”

Dave groaned, “Fine I’ll see what I can do” he stormed off as he made his way to the guard barracks and the dungeon. Celestia and Cadence shared angered expressions before they finally managed to calm themselves

“We can bake two pies with one oven if we visit Rarity” Cadence smiled “Nox can visit Sweetie Belle and hopefully get his head straight whilst you…” she tapped Celestia with a sly grin “Can finally get that lingerie made for you and Dave to enjoy”

Celestia sighed “I suppose I need to do something to take my mind of this recent development” she shook her head as she looked at the smaller princess “I can’t help but think that she is up to something”

Cadence calmly led Celestia outside as they took flight, Nox occasionally flying by himself “Don’t worry Princess Celestia, I’m positive that Dave can squeeze any info out of her”

Meanwhile…

“MY SISTER DID WHAT!” Princess Larva screeched at Odio “We allowed you to remain because you could help us, not allow my sister to send herself to her doom!”

Odio smiled “I promised to save your race on the condition that I get something in return” he poked the princess as he chuckled “Don’t think that because I came out of your egg sack that I am under your control”

“Then what can we do?” Larva yelled, “My sister controlled the entire hive! Without her my children will run amok” she sat down as she panted furiously, her yelling causing her to get angrier with each word

The giant changeling stood, the giant gem in his head glowed brightly as he raised his head up high. He let out a loud roar that forced the princess to cover her ears as the sound of buzzing that accompanied the hive fell silent

Larva shuddered as the silence made her feel alone, the constant buzzing reassured her that her children were alive. She looked back at Odio as the buzzing returned, not constant, but as a harmonic pulse that shook the ground and walls

“What are you doing?” She shuddered as her children stepped into the throne room, their normally green eyes were now deep red “What have you done to them?”

Odio chuckled “Somepony needed to take command” he smiled at the changelings “You can trust me, I played loads of strategy games while I was on Earth” he rose a claw and all the changelings buzzed at the same time, their thoughts filled with the need to please their new master

“You've brainwashed them” Larva gasped, “You planned to take over my children, you planned for my sister to be captured… what are you going to do now?”

Odio shrugged “First I shall stick to my promise and get those gryphons to leave you alone, then I will save your sister by taking over Canterlot” he tapped his chin as he grinned again “I wonder if Dave has missed me”

Chapter 18

General Talon walked into his barracks, various gryphons of different shades sat around a circular map of Equestria. Vix was polishing his mask as he looked down at the positions of the gryphon forces. The room itself was a hollowed out tree, the seats were small clouds that the gryphons sat on

“Alright” The general pointed to the badlands on the map “I want these pathetic roaches on my dinner plate by tonight” he groaned as Bishop Ruffles stood up “What is it Bishop?”

“Have you ever tried coming to a peaceful resolution?” The bishop looked around at the other gryphons “All violence does is cause problems which bring more problems” he removed his hat as he held it over his heart “Unless we try to make ourselves better then what hope is there for the future and our children?”

The gryphons that had not fallen asleep were yawning as they struggled to pay attention. Talon shook himself awake “All in favour of Bishop Ruffles being slapped raise a talon” he thrust his talon up along with every other gryphon in the room, including Ruffles

Ruffles shrugged to the gryphon next to him “I’m weak to peer pressure” he sighed as Vix slapped him to the floor before he returned to polishing his mask

Talon nodded to Vix “Now that all our normal business is attended to we should press on with more important matters” he shuffled into a more comfortable position as the gryphons began to study the map “If we fly in a basic formation where we reinforce any gryphons that are getting outnumbered then we can…”

The general paused as the table shook, the air filled with a faint buzzing. The gryphons looked around the large room as paintings vibrated off the wall and crashed onto the floor. Elite Vix dropped his cleaning cloth as he rushed to the window and poked his head out

“General we have a proble…” Vix could not finish his sentence as a pair of changelings dragged him out the window and threw him to a group of waiting changelings. They waited by the window as the gryphons inside leapt to cover and began nervous muttering

General Talon roared as he jumped onto the table “Changeling cowards! Come in and fight us like real warriors!” he smirked as the changelings disappeared from view. His smile disappeared as a large claw filled the window and tore the wall away

“Morning gentlemen” Odio smiled as the changelings swarmed in and outnumbered the gryphons. General Talon managed to claw two changelings away before flying out the new exit, his eyes widened as he saw the rest of his forces beneath a sea of red and black

“H-how could this happen?” Talon gasped, his face froze in horror as he felt a breath along his neck “What do you want?” he swallowed his fear as he turned to face Odio

“First off, stop the war with the changelings, this happened with the minimal of planning and effort” He held up a black claw and the buzzing from the changeling swarm stopped “Princess Larva has come up with a solution that can satisfy both sides”

General Talon let out a sigh as he looked down at his trapped army “I have no choice, but I congratulate your victory, I should have seen something like this happen” he extended a talon and shook Odio’s claw “So you managed to win a war in a day, what will you do now?”

Odio looked over the forest village in the direction of Canterlot “Rescue a damsel in distress and…” he frowned as he let out a small growl “Princess Celestia has something that belongs to me”

Meanwhile…

Dave stepped into the dungeon, the cells all empty apart from one that housed the changeling queen. His face tightened as he saw her waiting for him, her eyes instantly met his as he stopped at the cell door

“So…” Dave put his hands in his pockets as he looked around the stone cell that the queen was kept in “You came to Canterlot to atone for your sins” Dave chuckled before his eyes returned to the changeling “I suppose I am as ready as I’ll ever be for the rest of your reasons”

Chrysalis stepped forwards so her horn poked out of the cell “I came to show you that I can take responsibility for what I have done” she sighed as her head rested against the cell door “If I came for your love to power my army then I would still be faced against an entire city”

“I thought you said my love was more potent” Dave folded his arms as he stared at the queen “I heard that you managed to defeat Celestia when you had Shining Armour powering you up”

“I… know what I did” Chrysalis sighed “My action were for the good of my changelings, they needed to feed otherwise they would have died” she stood on her hind legs as she put her front hooves on the bars “I came alone so I could offer my love to you”

Dave leaned against the wall as he stared at his feet “You will most likely be banished or imprisoned” Dave scratched his head “Depends if Celestia finds out that you tried to sleep with me”

“I don’t care” Chrysalis growled “If I am banished and kept away from you then that would be torture enough” she reached out with a hoof “Come with me and we can go anywhere”

Dave stood up straight “Anywhere?” he hummed “anywhere we want?”

“Yes!” Chrysalis smiled “We can go back to the hive or anywhere we want, I can take on a new form and find a way to provide for us or we could live in a remote place and live off the land”

“Ok here is the plan” He moved closer as Chrysalis’ smile grew “I am going to live here with Celestia and my SON” Dave smiled as he poked Chrysalis “And you can bugger off and leave me alone”

Chrysalis tried to grab Dave but missed as he hopped back, she dropped to the floor of her cell as she put her hooves over her eyes. Dave began to walk away until he heard sniffing coming from the jail cell, he groaned as his conscious made him walk back

Dave knelt down next to the cell but Chrysalis had moved to the far corner of the room, her sniffs managed to fill the dungeon as Dave sat in silence. He groaned as he marched out of the dungeon and looked for the jailor

He spotted him by one of the desks, his hoof around a mug of cider as he snored heavily. Dave walked over and pretended to whisper in his ear as he plucked the cell keys from the jailor’s pocket. He nodded to a few guards as he walked back into the dungeon

“Alright, I’m a nice guy so I am only going to offer this once” Dave shook the keys at Chrysalis “I’ll let you go, you can scurry back to your hive and look after your swarm”

Chrysalis stopped sobbing to look at Dave, she walked over to the cell door as Dave opened the door and stood aside. She looked back at her cell before looking at Dave

“Will you come with me?” She sighed as Dave shook his head “Well I appreciate the gesture” Chrysalis stepped back into her cell and closed the door behind her “I would prefer to stay like this”

Dave growled as he stormed out of the dungeon, he threw the keys back at the jailor, causing him to bolt awake. The angry human marched around the castle as he tried to clear his head, his thoughts bouncing between Celestia, Chrysalis, Strong Shield and Nox

“Why does it have to be me that has to make everypony happy?” Dave sighed as he stepped into Celestia’s quarters, he searched the rooms before he gave up and collapsed onto the bed

Meanwhile…

Celestia, Cadence and Nox all landed outside Carousel Boutique, Cadence quickly locked the door and closed the blinds behind the group as they hurried inside. They heard Rarity calling out as she hurried downstairs, her normal introduction stopped as she saw the three royals

Rarity went straight into a deep bow “Your highnesses, how could I ever be of service to you?” she held her pose until Celestia beckoned for her to rise

“Is Sweetie Belle around?” Nox smiled as Rarity pointed upstairs, they grey colt eagerly rushing up the steps to find the filly that had been playing on his mind

“I hope he remembers that advice I told him” Cadence sighed, her eyes moved back to the puzzled unicorn “Oh forgive me, Nox has a crush on your sister”

Rarity nodded understandingly until her eyes shot open “A prince has fallen for my little sister?” her eye twitched as Celestia and Cadence nodded

“But there is another reason we are here” Cadence moved over to Rarity and began to whisper very quietly “Princess Celestia needs some clothes made”

Rarity shook off the initial shock before she smiled “Well you came to the right place Princess Celestia” she bowed again “What would you like? A gown? A dress? Maybe some scarves?”

“I would like some um…” She blushed as she tried to remember what Cadence had told her “silk garments”

Rarity nodded “Ok, I will start right away” she levitated over a notepad and pen “what kind of events are you going to be wearing this garment to?”

Cadence placed a hoof on the notepad “These particular garments are for Dave’s eyes only” she rose a suggestive eyebrow as Rarity frowned in confusion “They will be worn for… private use”

“I’m afraid that I don’t follow” Rarity laughed nervously as Cadence took her notepad and wrote down a few notes before passing it back to the white unicorn “Oh… revealing, sexy…” she gasped as she finally caught on “Y-you want me to make these?”

“I could think of nopony better qualified” Celestia smiled before she rethought her sentence “For making dresses, not experience with… sex clothes”

Cadence giggled “So long as they aren't edible I’m sure it will be fine” she smiled until she noticed the confused looks “well Shining Armour put on a bit of weight when I used to wear them” she scoffed until Rarity began taking measurements of Princess Celestia

“Well I hope Dave likes them” She gave a hopeful smile to Cadence before her expression was switched with fear “What if he doesn't? What if he thinks I am going crazy?”

Cadence held up her hoof to silence the other princess “Dave will love them because they will be worn on your sexy flank” she smiled reassuringly

“Thank you, I suppose that…” Celestia exchanged a confused look with Rarity before they both slowly looked at Cadence “D-did you just say I had a sexy flank?”

“Well yeah” Cadence smiled “it has a nice shape and Dave can certainly put his hands to some use” she frowned at the awkward looks “I can have opinions you know”

Rarity smiled nervously “Well of course you can but…” The alabaster unicorn tapped her chin “I never would have guessed that you thought Princess Celestia’s flank was… sexy”

“I find yours reasonably nice to look at but that doesn't mean I am going to try and kiss it” Cadence sighed, “I have self control and I have a husband to play with, do I need anything else?” she hopped on the spot as her face lit up “that reminds me, do you make furry hoofcuffs?”

Chapter 19

Nox stepped into Sweetie Belle’s room and saw the white filly talking to her friends, he politely knocked the door before stepping in. Applebloom spun her head around and smiled at the new guest “Hey Nox” she called and her friends soon gave similar greetings

“Hey girls” Nox nervously joined the group as he stared at a broken chair “Are you trying to get your cutie marks in building?” he stroked his chin at the splinters on the floor

“No…” Scootaloo groaned as she threw a paintbrush back into a pot “We tried painting Sweetie Belle’s ceiling but we couldn't reach it” she stared up at the single dot of blue on the ceiling

Nox held back a laugh “Well, it would have certainly been a nice colour” he finally broke into a full laugh as Scootaloo shoved him “Anyway I am not here to judge your decorating”

“What are ya here for?” Applebloom asked as she began picking the broken chair up and moving it to a corner of the room, she hurried back to the colt’s side as he finally managed to stop giggling

Nox opened his mouth to confess but his nerves hit home and his throat seized “I um…” he pulled a wing around himself as his face turned red “I-I need to chat with Sweetie Belle… it’s kinda embarrassing”

Sweetie Belle smiled before she sat herself down next to Nox “we are all friends here, it’s ok” she smiled until Nox let out a loud groan “Whatever it is you can tell us”

“Doyouwanttogooutwithme?” Nox gasped for breath as he looked at the confused faces around him, his nervous smile moved to Sweetie Belle as he took another, deeper breath “I-I mean, what I said was, I said… would you like to go out with me?”

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo gasped while Applebloom’s face dropped, her concerned eyes replaced with hurt and betrayal. The earth pony ran out the bedroom before tears began to flow. Scootaloo shrugged before she chased after her friend, leaving Nox and Sweetie Belle alone

The white unicorn stared at her hooves as a large blush spread across her face “W-why would you like me?” she shuffled nervously away from Nox “You’re a prince and I’m just a regular unicorn”

“W-well you’re nice and kind” his smile turned to a frown “I like being around you and I like seeing you smile”

“But you’re not even a week old… technically speaking” Sweetie Belle sighed as Nox looked down at himself “I like you but… as a friend”

Nox growled at himself “Stupid alicorn body” he whispered before he calmed down “It’s ok, I should have thought it through first” he let out a small fake laugh before he walked for the door “Say goodbye to the others for me?” he smiled as much as he could to Sweetie Belle before he dragged himself downstairs

Cadence noticed the grey alicorn enter the room as he hopped onto the sofa and buried his head into a cushion. The princess of love sighed sadly as she knew what Nox’s news would be so she returned to talking to Celestia, who was having measurements taken around each hoof

“So what are we doing for the rest of the day?” Cadence levitated over some samples of fabric as she rubbed them against her cheek “By the way, I think that pink would be a nice colour”

Celestia nervously smiled as Rarity measured her hind legs “When Rarity has finished taking measurements we could go visit my student erm… your sister-in-law uh… Twilight” she chuckled at the various links Twilight had to royalty

“That sounds like a wonderful idea” Rarity called from somewhere behind Celestia’s tail “I’m almost finished here but it will still take a while to make your clothes”

“Well I would hate to ruin your schedule by placing in a late order” Celestia cringed as Rarity let out a loud gasp

The white unicorn bowed to the princess “I would gladly do this, you have done so much and we have never properly repaid you” she smiled up at Celestia before she set about getting herself ready to make the clothes “I should be done sometime this afternoon”

Cadence hopped off the sofa as she walked over to Celestia “If you would like to go see Twilight then I don’t mind staying with you and Nox” she looked over at the grey colt that was still face down in a cushion “Are you alright Nox?”

Nox groaned loudly as he flipped onto his back “I don’t get it, why doesn’t Sweetie Belle want to go out with me?” he looked at his hooves “I bet it is because I live in Canterlot”

“Aww I’m sure the right girl will show herself,” Rarity said reassuringly before she froze “Um… who did you say turned you down?”

Nox sighed sadly as he sat up “Sweetie Belle”

“Heh… excuse me” Rarity calmly walked over to her stairs before she rushed at full speed into Sweetie Belle’s room, her head turned to look at her bigger sister

“Hey Rarity, can I help you with anything?” Sweetie Belle was silenced as Rarity grabbed her cheeks and shook her violently

“ARE YOU MAD?” she released her sister as she pointed at the door “A prince? A prince threw himself at you and you brushed him off? My own sister refused the chance at becoming royalty” the mare continued to over dramatize the situation as Sweetie Belle crept out of the room

Meanwhile…

Strong Shield walked through the streets of Canterlot as he headed for his home, his magical disguise was wrapped up neatly and was balanced on his back. His eye flicked between windows and alleyways as he walked down the cobbled road

He walked around a mare wearing a large purple hat as he made his way towards a side street, he gave one final look around the quiet road as he walked up to his house and made his way inside, he dropped his disguise on the living room table as he looked around his under decorated house

The walls were a clean white, no paintings or photos were on display to add variety to the room. A dull brown sofa and chair sat around a varnished table. In the corner of the room sat a mannequin dressed in Strong Shield’s old armour, it’s surface still held a pure gold shine as he looked at it

“The helmet is tilted slightly too much to the right” He sighed as he corrected the mistake “I understand you made a deal with my son” he turned to see Flux sat on the sofa whilst Battering Ram was walking out of the kitchen, a large plate of salad in his mouth

Flux rolled her eyes as Battering Ram sat down and began devouring the heap of food. She waited for Strong Shield to reluctantly sit next to her before she looked at him “We dealt with the changeling in Ponyville, Dave said you would be willing to tell us what is inside the vault”

Strong Shield sighed “Alright, you wont like it but…” He looked up at his former friends “It’s Project Harvest” he sat calmly as Battering Ram stopped eating and growled at him

“We all know that what you just said is a lie” he glared with Flux at the black unicorn “Tell us what is really inside” he forced himself to calm before Strong Shield continued

“I knew you wouldn’t believe me but what I am saying is true” Strong Shield ignored the hatred in his guest’s eyes as a knock came from the door “Excuse me whilst I see who that is” he stood and marched for the door, feeling the glares on the back of his neck

Strong Shield opened the door to see three ponies looking at him with warm smiles, two were stallions whilst the other was the mare that he had walked past earlier except her hat was missing. She held out her hoof as she smiled

“Hello we are planning a social gathering to commemorate the birth of Prince Nox” She smiled as Strong Shield shook her hoof “Would you like to come join us?”

“That sounds nice” He smiled until he tilted his head “Where is that hat you were wearing?”

The mare sighed, “Oh, I must have left it at the gathering, would you like to come with us?” her two companions slowly began to lose their smiles

Strong Shield ignored her “That hat had such a nice shade of blue” he sighed as a smile crept across his face

“Yes it did didn’t it?” She responded as her hoof tried to lead Strong Shield outside “Would you like to join us? I can show you my hat again”

Strong Shield’s face went blank as he pulled the mare forwards and slammed the door on her hoof, it flashed red as it turned black. Strong Shield opened the door enough to kick the changeling into its companions before he shut the door

“The hat was purple you dumb bug” Strong Shield growled as he hurried to the window, he peeked outside to see ponies being snatched into hidden spots, changelings quickly taking their old positions. He groaned as the three outside his door began to headbut at the thick wood

Flux curiously joined him “Changelings with a plan?” she hummed “This doesn’t seem too good, they are actually replacing ponies rather than avoiding the real one”

“Canterlot is under attack again?” Battering Ram groaned “every time I come here there seems to be an apocalypse of some sort” he stood as he moved over to the door, opening it long enough for him to kick one changeling across the street, pick up the other two and slam them into the ground

Strong Shield dragged Battering Ram back inside as he locked the door “Now they will warn the rest of the changelings” he growled, “We have to get to the castle and make sure that it is secure”

“We?” Flux laughed, “give us the key to the vault and we will help you, we still don’t believe that it is Project Harvest” she was reassured as Battering Ram grunted in approval

Strong Shield shook his head “If I die or get captured then the location of the key will be lost forever” he smiled as Flux groaned “So I suggest you help me get to the castle” he glanced out the window before deciding that the back door was a better option

Flux and Battering Ram followed Strong Shield as they moved from alley to alley, keeping their bursts for cover as short as possible. The trio reached the main street before they stopped, keeping close to the wall

Flux poked her head out as she surveyed the area “Judging by stature, height and general eye contact” she hummed “The ponies on this entire street are changelings”

“Any alternate routes into the castle?” Battering Ram whispered before a smile came to his face “Or can I make a distraction?”

Strong Shield peeked out of cover to look at the buildings “Flux, you boost me onto the buildings on the opposite side of the street and follow me to the castle walls” he looked back at his bigger ally “While you have fun being an exterminator”

Battering Ram nodded as he confidentially strutted into the middle of the street “QUEEN CHRYSALIS SUCKED ON MY BIG HAIRY BA…” He could not finish his insult as the street full of changelings rushed at him. Ram managed to kick or buck a few away before one actually managed to grab him, but his strength allowed him to shake the changeling off with ease

As the fight continued, Flux ran for the closest building and crouched down, Strong Shield hopped onto her back before Flux launched him into the air. Strong Shield reached the first windowsill and kicked off it, his momentum slowed but Flux flew up to push him the rest of the way on to the rooftop

Strong Shield nodded to the Pegasus as he began to run across the rooftops, Flux flew alongside him as they left Battering Ram to fight a small swarm of changelings. As they reached the castle wall, Flux flew ahead and turned upside-down, Strong Shield leapt onto her hooves and they kicked off each other, causing Strong Shield to soar over the wall

He landed with a roll as he dived behind a bush, he looked at the guard and noticed his armour was slightly dented “Even the guards are changelings,” he groaned quietly. He spied the castle door as he snuck his way around the edge of the castle and hurried up the stairs

Meanwhile…

Queen Chrysalis sat by the door to her cell, her ears pricked as she heard the sound of buzzing, her hopes grew as a small group of changelings arrived at her cell and began gnawing on the metal

“My changelings” She sighed happily “I am most pleased to see you but… why did you come for me?” she shuddered as she noticed her army’s eyes were all red

One froze and shook violently, it’s eyes turned black before being replaced with a dull crimson “Assuming direct control” it called in a growl before bursting into laughter “I’m sorry I couldn’t resist” Odio chuckled

“ODIO!” Chrysalis snarled, “What have you done to my swarm and how did you get here?” she froze as the changelings snarled at her

“We made peace with the gryphons, temporarily captured Canterlot while we rescue you, umm…” Odio hummed sarcastically “Oh and once you are free the changelings are going home and returning to normal”

Chrysalis shook her head “I want to see Dave”

“You and me both” Odio sighed before the body he possessed started to bounce on the spot “Well I liked being a bug for a few days but being a large fog of hate is much more my style” he waited until the cell door was removed before waving to the changeling queen “See ya around!”

Meanwhile…

Strong Shield was walking down the corridor as a loud buzzing filled his ears, he frowned as the corridor around him filled with changelings. They all avoided him as they crawled out of open windows and flew though the city streets

Strong Shield looked out the window and saw all the changelings removing their illusions and replacing unconscious ponies in their original position “This wasn't an invasion…” Strong Shield realized “this was a highly organized prison break”

The changeling swarm managed to escape the city before any of the ponies regained consciousness, Flux and Battering Ram looked at the castle before they walked out of sight. With nothing else to do Strong Shield ran for the barracks, failing to notice the black fog that raced past the window he was just looking out of

Chapter 20

Dave groaned as he opened his eyes, his body felt sore and his head pounded in agony. He moved to sit up but felt something weighing down his arm, he looked over to see Celestia holding onto him, her mane matted with sweat

She did not stir as Dave managed to wiggle his arm free. He moved again only to find that his other arm was pinned by Luna, causing his jaw to drop

“The hell happened?” Dave whispered to himself as he retrieved his other arm, he looked at both princesses before he noticed the changeling queen sleeping between his legs “Chrysalis?” he rubbed his head as he looked around the room

Cadence and Larva were snuggled together on the floor as empty bottles of wine laid around the room. Dave crawled out of bed and slowly got to his feet, his legs wobbled as he leaned against the wall to support himself

Dave rubbed his eyes as he looked around the room again, the princesses of the sun and moon both moved closer together as they embraced the changeling queen between them

“Either I am in a really weird dream or alcohol makes me get laid way too easily,” Dave groaned as his headache continued, but a smile crept across his face “At least cider helped me find you” he aimed at Celestia

“Dave?” Luna called, her mouth remained still as the voice seemed to echo around the room “Dave wake up”

Dave released his head as he looked at the princess of the night “Did you say something?” he staggered over to the bed as he stared down at Luna “Hello?”

“Dave we have a problem!” Luna called again in a more panicked voice but her body still rested perfectly still as Dave looked around the room

“LUNA!” Dave yelled as the room suddenly disappeared and darkness filled his vision. His shoulders began to shake as his eyes opened to reveal the dark alicorn was shaking him

“Dave I need you to wake up!” Luna almost sobbed, “Please don’t leave me” she sniffed as she stared at the door

Dave sprang up and glanced around the room, he pinched himself a couple of times before he turned to Luna. “What’s going on?” he asked as he rubbed his face

“There were changelings everywhere” Luna shuddered “I was so afraid that I would let everypony down if I tried to fight them alone” she dropped her head into her hooves “I ran to find you but you were asleep”

The bedroom door swung open and Strong Shield hurried in “Princess Luna, Dave” he sighed as he regained his breath “Queen Chrysalis has escaped with her entire swarm”

“It was just to get Chrysalis back?” Luna groaned, “No wonder there was so many inside the castle… are you sure they are all gone?”

Strong Shield nodded “They even stopped to pick up their dead or wounded” he looked at the balcony doors “Looks like they tried to get in any way they could” he sighed as they all looked at the cracked glass

“Good thing that the glass was strong enough to keep them out” Luna smiled “Dave was so asleep they could have dragged him away”

Dave chuckled “Trust me when I say that my sleep wasn’t nice” he stood up as he put on his trench coat “So what’s the plan?” his head hit him with another wave of pain as he sat down again

“Get everypony to repair any damages and make sure any wounded get attended to” Strong Shield responded, he held up his hoof as he sighed “Forgive me, I am still used to dealing with these issues”

Luna nodded understandingly “Your advice is still some of the best we can get” she smiled to the ex-guard “Go tell the other guards so that they can follow it out”

Strong Shield almost saluted but settled with a nod as he left the royal chambers. Luna turned to Dave who was rubbing his head “Are you alright?”

“Y-yeah” Dave groaned, “Maybe a changeling hit me when I wasn’t looking” he shook his head as he smiled reassuringly to Luna “I’ll be fine in a minute”

“Alright” Luna smiled “I have to go attend to a few things but when Celestia comes back we have to tell her everything” she exchanged nods with Dave before she left the room as well

Dave sat alone on the white bed, his hands shook as he looked at them, his chest squeezed painfully as he pushed himself to his feet. He stretched resulting in a loud and painful crack as he collapsed to the bed again

“What the hell happened?” Dave groaned as he pushed himself onto his back and stared at the ceiling, “I go to sleep for a few minutes and I wake up feeling like I have been beaten up”

The human attempted to get to his feet again, he held onto the bed until he managed to stand up straight, his legs wobbled before he fell to his knees. He panted as he dragged himself onto the bed and spent a few minutes rubbing his skull

“Did Battering Ram do this?” Dave asked himself before he slowly shook his head “This feels to blunt to be him, he would just snap everything rather than leave me like this” his body responded by stabbing him with pain again

“Argh, why is this happening?” Dave groaned as the pain continued to assault him “Hello? Can anyone give me a hand err… hoof?” his yelling caused his stomach to twist violently “Ow… Celestia where are you?” Dave groaned in pain as he was left alone in the room to suffer

Meanwhile…

Sweetie Belle walked up the clubhouse ramp to see Scootaloo sitting by the door, a worried expression was stuck on her face. “Applebloom has locked herself inside” the orange Pegasus shrugged “I don’t know what to do”

“Well we have to find out what is wrong” Sweetie Belle walked up to the door and knocked gently “Applebloom! What’s wrong? You can tell us!”

“GO AWAY!” Applebloom yelled angrily before her voice cracked and she resumed her sobbing, the pain in her voice made Sweetie Belle shudder slightly before she looked at Scootaloo

“I’ll go find Applejack or Big Mac,” Sweetie Belle said as she ran off in the direction of Sweet Apple Acres, leaving Scootaloo to sit at the door again, listening to the faint sobs and sniffs of her friend

Sweetie Belle returned shortly after a few minutes with both of Applebloom’s older siblings following beside her. Applejack used a spare key to unlock the clubhouse as she entered with Big Mac, closing the door behind them and leaving Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo outside

Applejack sighed as she trotted over to her younger sibling and put a hoof on her shoulder “Now what’s up sugarcube?” she said reassuringly as she sat next to her sister

Applebloom sniffed as she threw her arms around Applejack and held on as she buried her face into the mare’s mane. Applejack held Applebloom reassuringly as she stroked her mane, Big Mac walked over and sat down as well

“I-I liked a colt” Applebloom sniffed as Big Mac carefully wiped the tears from her face “B-but he doesn’t like me, he likes Sweetie Belle” she burst into tears again as her older siblings exchanged sympathetic smiles

“Hush now” Applejack whispered “We all like somepony at one point but it doesn’t work out, I’ve had a few in my life and I cried just as much as you are now” she smiled as Applebloom looked up at her

“R-really?” She waited for a nod from Applejack before looking at Big Mac, who slowly nodded as well “B-but it isn’t the same, the colt I like is different!”

Big Mac chuckled as he rubbed Applebloom’s mane “Who is this colt?”

Applebloom looked down at her hooves as she tapped the wooden floor “I like Nox but he likes Sweetie Belle” she looked up to see the shocked faces of her brother and sister “I told you he was different”

“Y-yeah but an alicorn is REALLY different” Applejack played with her hat before looking at Applebloom again “Nox is a prince, he has got to live a life around servants and maids”

“But he was willing to be special someponies with Sweetie Belle!” Applebloom stomped her hooves angrily “If she wasn’t around then Nox wouldn’t like anypony and I could be with him”

“APPLEBLOOM!” Big Mac growled, “Never wish your friends gone” he scolded his sister as she began crying again

The yellow filly curled into a ball as she cried, her hooves covered her eyes as tears streamed down her face. “I don’t wanna lose my friends!” she ran for the door and yanked it open, she dived towards her fellow crusaders as she threw her hooves around them “I don’t want to lose either of ya!” she wept “I don’t care if Sweetie Belle is with Nox, so long as we are friends ah don’t care”

Sweetie Belle frowned slightly “I’m not with Nox” she smiled as she saw Applebloom’s confused face “I said no when he asked me to be his special somepony”

“Y-ya said no?” Applebloom wiped the tears from her face as she looked at her unicorn friend “Why would ya say no to being royalty?”

“Because I knew you like Nox and I would rather have you as a friend than be married to a prince” Sweetie Belle hugged Applebloom “We are Cutie Mark Crusaders and that bond is stronger than anything!”

Applejack and Big Mac stood at the entrance to the clubhouse as they exchanged relieved and happy smiles. Scootaloo joined in the hugging as the three crusaders began laughing and planning their next adventure

Meanwhile…

“Thanks again for helping out in the barracks” Shining Armour thanked Nurse Redheart as she walked along the corridor, her medical equipment in her brown saddlebags

The white mare smiled happily, “it was only a few scrapes and bruises, the changelings just wanted to get their Queen, not to destroy the city”

Shining Armour nodded as walked beside the nurse “Your career is certainly getting more exciting than it was in Ponyville” He joked as Nurse Redheart nodded in response

“I went from town nurse to royal nurse in a very short space of time,” Redheart pointed out “I never expected everything to be easy or dull, life never is”

The captain of the guard chuckled “You say that as if your entire life has been one long struggle to survive”

“My life has been fine” Nurse Redheart sighed “It’s just that I have treated everything from ponies to alicorns to buffalo, I just hate to see what else could be injured” she turned the corner and saw Dave sprawled out in the middle of the corridor “Me and my big mouth” she groaned as she rushed to the human’s side

Shining Armour rolled Dave onto his back “Hey Dave!” he tapped his cheek “wake up buddy” he shook Dave a bit more until his eyes flickered open

“Shining?” Dave groaned loudly as he rubbed his head again “I was in Celestia’s quarters for so long that I had to try and find somepony” he flinched as Nurse Redheart placed a hoof against his neck

“His pulse seems fine,” She observed as she set about checking for injuries “Where do you feel pain?”

Dave rolled his eyes “Everywhere” he groaned as Shining Armour helped him sit up and rest against the wall “I staggered for a few minutes before everything went black”

“We have to get you somewhere where you can rest” Shining Armour commanded as he lifted Dave’s arm around his neck “I’ll drag you if I have to”

Nurse Redheart pushed Shining Armour away from Dave “He is not moving anywhere until I am sure that he is fit to travel” she matched Shining’s scowl “I can have you reported for being unfit for duty if I believe you have so much as a cold”

“Fine we will leave him in the cold corridor then” Shining Armour snarled “You’re the nurse, you know best for everypony,” he mocked as Nurse Redheart stepped forward to retaliate

“SHUT UP!” Dave yelled before he grabbed his head again, “You are both acting like silly… fillies!”

Nurse Redheart sighed as she slowly nodded. Shining Armour shrugged as he pointed at the white mare “She started it!”

Chapter 21

Celestia, Cadence and a depressed Nox stopped outside the Ponyville library, their combined appearance had attracted a lot of attention that they would have preferred to have avoided. They knocked on the door as they waved to small groups that watched them

Spike opened the door and quickly bowed before the royal alicorns hurried inside the library. “I apologise for the intrusion but I’m afraid that our visit is a little unorthodox” Celestia sighed as Spike nodded understandably

Twilight hurried from upstairs and smiled as she saw her teacher and sister-in-law. “Princess Celestia, Cadence” She stopped in front of her old foalsitter before bouncing on her hooves in exact time with Cadence “Sunshine sunshine, ladybugs awake, clap your hooves and do a little shake!”

“How old are you?” Nox raised an eyebrow at the two giggling mares “Mum, can I go back to daddy?” he groaned as he buried his head in his mother’s mane

“Nox I can’t let you go all the way back to Canterlot alone” Celestia sighed before lifting Nox off her back and placed him next to Spike “We won’t be much longer, I promise”

Nox gave a small smile to Spike before they both walked over to a corner of the room and sat down, leaving the tree mares to talk around the large table

“Are you alright?” Spike asked as he looked at the grey alicorn beside him

“Huh? Oh… yeah I’m fine” Nox looked as his grey hooves before he looked up at the dragon next to him “Do you have a marefriend?”

Spike sighed as he scratched his scales around his neck “No but there is this one mare I like” Spike looked around as he turned to Nox “I will tell you but this has to be a secret”

Nox nodded “I won’t tell anypony” he moved his ear closer to Spike as the baby dragon lowered his voice to a whisper

“It’s Rarity” he smiled as he managed to get his secret off his chest yet again. Nox gasped before his eyebrow rose in confusion

“Isn’t she a bit old for you?” Nox held up his hooves as Spike frowned at him, “Well I asked Sweetie Belle out and she turned me down”

Spike gasped “You like Sweetie Belle?” he patted Nox reassuringly on the shoulder “I’m sorry it didn’t work out but I am sure that somepony else will be your special somepony”

“Yeah I wish” Nox groaned as he looked at his mother having a happy conversation with the other mares “But right now I just want to see my daddy”

Meanwhile…

“You are the worst stretcher ever,” Dave groaned as Shining Armour carried him up the steps, Nurse Redheart continued to poke Dave with various medical equipment “And where are we going?”

“Princess Celestia’s quarters” Nurse Redheart panted as she ran ahead and opened the doors, the guards that had arrived to stand guard helped carry Dave onto the bed “Everypony out, he needs some space”

Dave reached out and grabbed Shining Armour by his chest plate “They can stay!” he led out a yelp as his chest stabbed at him again “Am I dying?”

Nurse Redheart shook her head as she pulled out a stethoscope “No you aren’t” she pressed it against his chest as her face dropped “Your heart has stopped” she began to place her hooves over his ribs “I have to get it going again”

“His heart has stopped?” Shining looked at Dave “We need to get Celestia, Luna or… or somepony!” he tapped Dave’s leg “Don’t worry, you will be fine!” he said reassuringly as he took the other guards and ran out of the bedroom

Dave grabbed Nurse Redheart’s shoulders before she started her chest compressions “If you try mouth to mouth or some other shit then I won’t be happy” he groaned as he grabbed his head again “W-where is Celestia?” he groaned as he arched his back

“I-I-I don’t know, I’ll be back as soon as I can!” She bolted out of the door as Dave rolled off the bed and landed on the stone floor. He pushed himself to his feet as he staggered over to the window, his head shot one final burst of pain before his arms dropped and his body fell to the floor

…

Dave opened his eyes to have dark fur fill his vision, his head was being held by something soft as the patch of fur repeatedly moved back and forth. His hearing returned as he heard the noise of faint sobbing, he could just make out small words as his head was being cradled

“You silly human” Luna stroked Dave’s head as she was left alone in her sister’s quarters “Why did this happen? Why did you come back, only to be snatched away again?”

Dave attempted to move his body, only to discover that it took all his concentration to move his finger. He looked around as best he could, catching a glimpse of the afternoon sun as Luna’s hoof moved out of the way

“I thought that you were going to be here forever” She kissed the top of his cold head “I hoped that one day you could learn to accept me again, to hold me as you hold my sister”

Dave closed his eyes as Luna spoke to his motionless body, his body remained as quiet until his body lurched, as if something had kicked him alive again

“AH!” Dave gasped as he squirmed and ended up on his back, Luna had shrieked as the corpse she was holding suddenly awoken and had wriggled free from her grasp. Dave panted before he sat up, the pain gone and his head still pounded gently “What the hell happened?”

Luna did not respond as she leapt forwards and tackled Dave, her lips repeatedly slammed against his face until Dave managed to grasp her shoulders and hold her still. Luna gave one final burst as she locked her lips against Dave’s, her hooves wrapped around his neck as she released him “Never do that to me again” she whispered before placing her lips against his again

Dave was still recovering from being tackled as he realized that his mouth was joined with Luna’s and that his tongue was not the only one in his mouth. He tapped Luna before pointing to their conjoined mouths

The princess of the night pulled herself off Dave as she blushed “I can never apologize enough for what I just did, I was being selfish and I was…”

Dave placed a finger over her lips “You were just happy to see me” he smiled as Luna sighed, “We agreed that we were friends and you have been a good friend in making sure my body was protected”

Luna pushed Dave’s hand away “What happened to you?” Luna asked as she shuffled closer and began checking Dave to reassure herself “Nurse Redheart said that you were in immense pain”

Dave nodded as he looked at his chest “I was and I have no idea why” his hands shook slightly as he looked at them but they quickly became steady again “Where is Celestia and Nox?”

“They were held up in Ponyville, something about an item” Luna shook her head “They have both decided to stay in your home with Cadence” her lip began to quiver again as she threw her hooves around Dave and hugged him tightly “I was so worried”

“It’s ok Luna” Dave returned the hug “I am happy to know that you are nearby” he yawned as he watched the sun lower towards the horizon “I hope you don’t mind but, I am really tired as you could guess”

Luna smiled as she released Dave and headed for the door “I’ll see you tomorrow morning, Celestia and Nox should return in time for breakfast” She smiled one last time before leaving the room completely. The guards outside saluted to her but quickly popped their heads into the royal bedroom

“Hey Dave” One of them called “Are you alright? Do you need anything?”

Dave shook his head “Nah I’m fine guys, but can you make sure my dad can meet me for breakfast tomorrow?” he smiled as both the guards saluted him and closed the door. Dave removed his clothes as he climbed into the comfortable bed and sleep took him almost instantly

The next morning…

A white alicorn stopped next to the sleeping human, she rubbed her nose against his head as she took in his scent. “Dave, wake up” Celestia said loud enough to awaken him “I have a surprise for you”

Dave rubbed his eyes as he rolled over and looked at Celestia, her mane was flowing gently as she smiled at him. “Hey Celestia… where is Nox?”

“That’s the surprise!” Celestia hopped onto the bed and stood over Dave “I have asked for no disturbances for the entire morning”

“Again?” Dave chuckled as he was pushed back onto the bed “Listen I had a rough night and I would like it if we…”

“Do you love me?” Celestia stared at Dave as his smile disappeared

Dave nodded as Celestia moved her head closer “Of course I do”

“Say it” She closed her eyes as Dave frowned slightly

“I love you,” Dave whispered as Celestia’s face gained a happy and grateful smile

“Then close your eyes” She whispered in return. Dave complied as she kissed him and joined him under the bed covers “Don’t open your eyes” she reminded as she returned to kissing her lover

Dave’s mouth opened instinctively as his tongue met Celestia’s halfway, his tongue tried to match Celestia’s but she attacked with a hunger and desire that Dave failed to match. Her tongue was more violent, more wanting and it made Dave think back to…

“CHRYSALIS!” Celestia bellowed from the other end of the room, her eyes fixed on the changeling queen that had her body laying on top of Dave’s exposed chest. Her lips curled into a snarl as her hair began to glow and float rather than flow

Dave heard Celestia scream from the other side of the bedroom, his eyes opened to meet Chrysalis’ as his mouth opened to gasp. Chrysalis took the chance to kiss Dave as much as she could before a large beam of light blasted her against the wall

Dave bolted up, his eyes shot to Chrysalis who was huddled in the corner, casting a green shield around herself. Dave turned to look at Celestia, her mane was on fire as her body glowed a bright orange

“HOW DARE YOU TOUCH HIM!” Celestia growled loudly as the air in the room began to shake, the curtains burst into flame as smoke began to emit from almost every object in the bedroom

Dave climbed out of bed and wrapped his clothes in his trench coat, he yelped as the floor burned his feet. He jumped back onto the bed as Celestia marched around it, her furious eyes remained on the changeling

Chrysalis’ magical barrier began to shudder and shake as her defences began to fail. Celestia’s hoof prints were burned into the ground as the floor began to glow from the heat

“Celestia stop!” Dave shuffled away from the edges of the bed as they began to smoke. He looked back to Chrysalis who was covering her face with her hooves as Celestia stopped a meter short of the green barrier

“LOOK HOW POWERFUL YOU ARE WHEN YOU HAVE NOPONY TO SUPPORT YOU!” Celestia yelled as she ignored Dave’s yelling or Chrysalis’ quiet pleading “YOU WON’T LIVE TO REGRET TRYING TO USE DAVE!” her horn glowed brighter as she pointed it at the changeling queen

“I SAID STOP!” Dave yelled as he jumped between the princess of the sun and the queen of the changelings. He ignored the pain of having his bare feet on the glowing floor “Don’t drop to her level” he said without showing how much pain he was in

Celestia continued to stare at where Chrysalis was hiding “SHE WAS KISSING YOU!” her tears quickly turned to steam as they left her white eyes “I’LL KILL HER!”

“Celestia stop please” Dave begged as his body’s sweat evaporated before it even reached his skin “Don’t do this, this isn’t the Celestia I love” he groaned as he placed his hands on Celestia’s flaming fur, his hands let out a cloud of smoke as he lifted her face to his

“S-SHE WAS GOING TO… to” Celestia’s eyes returned to normal as her fur stopped glowing and her mane stopped burning and returned to flowing in its multiple colours. She shuddered as she smelt the burnt skin coming from Dave “I-I’m sorry”

Dave managed a smile before he collapsed against Celestia “Don’t be, I should have realized” he glanced over his shoulder at Chrysalis “Go” he whispered as she released her barrier and flew out the melted balcony window

Celestia nuzzled Dave as she cried “I-I just wanted her to stop, she has hurt so many already that when I saw her kissing you I wanted to…” She let out a loud sob as she held Dave even tighter “I would never kill anypony”

“I know” Dave kissed Celestia’s head as he ran his fingers through her mane, his soothing humming made Celestia’s crying fade into a dull whimper. He rocked slowly back and forth as he held Celestia and continued to comfort her

“I love you Dave,” Celestia whispered

Dave smiled “I love you too”

“Wwwwwwould it be a bad time to mention that I am back in your head?” Odio said cautiously

Chapter 22

“Now act calm Dave” Odio whispered “I made a few adjustments which allows me to talk to you without anypony else hearing” Odio squeaked happily “Finally nopony can disturb us!”

Dave snarled as he gritted his teeth, he continued to hold Celestia as he suppressed the urge to start yelling. He kissed Celestia’s head again as Odio groaned in disgust

“You are still with Celestia?” He sighed “You have two other females that would love to ride you like a… pony” Odio chuckled at the joke “Anyway if you can dump this one and we go on an adventure that would be great”

“FUCK YOU ODIO!” Dave yelled, causing Celestia to jump in shock. Dave groaned as he grabbed his head, “I don’t want you messing with my life anymore!”

Celestia frowned “Odio?” she slapped Dave’s head “Are you inside Dave again? Was it you that brought him back?” Dave fell to his knees as he held his head

Dave coughed as a black fog floated out of his mouth and two flaming red eyes burned into existence “Oh no you caught me” Odio sighed in defeat “I brought Dave back to kill him again, I planned to make him sleep with Chrysalis and make hundreds of changeling humans so I could take them and start a rampage throughout the galaxy”

Celestia’s horn began to glow as she glared at the fog “You have no remorse, no compassion, no respect and…” Celestia was interrupted as Odio’s burning eyes dwindled to a couple of embers “What do you want?”

“I want…” Odio looked at Dave before he hovered over to the window, a few black wisps of black smoke connected Odio to Dave “I went to Earth and had fun, played games, the odd bank robbery, stole a jet”

“You stole a jet?” Dave chuckled “what did you do with it? Actually wait… you did some barrel rolls?”

Odio laughed, “Yeah until I was shot down by some missiles so I parachuted down whilst firing dual pistols” He sighed before his gaze swept back to Celestia “The only thing that would have made my time on Earth perfect would have been…” He swirled to face the human “him”

“Me?” Dave chuckled as he stood up “A being of hatred and you are lonely?” the human walked over to Celestia and wrapped an arm around her “No wonder you hate me being happy with Celestia, you are worried that I will stop being your friend”

“FRIEND?” Celestia gasped as she looked at Dave “You are telling me that you and Odio are friends?”

Dave shrugged “He did do a lot of good… even if it did involve blowing me up and letting me sleep in dirt for almost four months” he glared at Odio as the fog appeared to shrug

“It’s true that I have no friends, mainly due to them trying to kill me, but Dave has been the only one that has ever been the tiniest bit nice to me” Odio swirled around Dave as if he was giving him a hug “He is my B.I.T.C.H”

“I am not your bitch” Dave waved the fog away

“B.I.T.C.H stands for British Intergalactic Travelling Companion Human” Odio pressed Dave’s cheeks together “You are British, travelled across the galaxy, Human and my friend!”

Dave rolled his eyes “I am more Celestia’s companion than I am yours” he smiled as he attempted to pet the fog “It is good to know that you are back though”

“ARE YOU SERIOUS?” Celestia yelled as she pulled Dave away from Odio “He killed you remember?”

Dave nodded “Yeah but Odio had to kill me in order for some upgrades to take effect” Dave looked down at his body “That’s the reason that I came back and still have healing”

“Yes Princess Celestia, you may thank me for allowing you to spend eternity with the one you love” Odio floated smugly as he stared at the leering Celestia “Any time you want to say thanks… any time now, I’m in no rush”

Celestia groaned as she looked at Dave, she let out a long sigh before looking back at Odio “Thank you Odio for making Dave immortal”

Odio swirled happily “Oh you, there was no need to thank me” He chuckled as Celestia glared again “But you are welcome, now come on Dave we must be off” the fog began to float towards the door before Dave let out a loud cough

“Yeah, I’m not going anywhere” Dave scratched the back of his head “I am glad to know you are around and everything but… I have responsibilities now, I have a son”

Odio nodded “I know, that’s how I found my way back to Equestria, I left a tiny bit of me behind as a beacon” he floated onto the charred bed as he sighed comfortably “When your offspring got mad, the beacon was activated and allowed me to head straight for the changeling egg sack”

“You were that huge changeling!” Dave realized “No wonder you looked familiar” he tapped his chin as Celestia nudged him to a corner of the room

“Dave, can you please not seem so happy about this?” Celestia glared at Odio as he attempted to listen in “I know you like him but I don’t and I would prefer it if he wasn’t… inside you”

Dave’s smile faded as he glanced at Odio and then back to Celestia “Come on, he has done a lot for us” he smiled reassuringly “He wont bother us if we don’t want him too”

Celestia groaned as Odio began whistling “I want us to be a family, you, me and Nox” Celestia moved closer to Dave as he hugged her “I don’t want him ruining anything”

“I know it might be weird but I’m sure we can come to some arrangement” Dave stroked Celestia’s mane until she pulled herself away

“If you loved me then you would have told him to leave already” Celestia turned her back to Dave “I love you, that’s why I didn’t vaporise Odio when he showed up”

Odio looked up at the mention of his name “I am right here you know”

Celestia turned back to Dave as she held back watery eyes “Do you want to be with me or do you want to be with Odio?”

Dave glanced at Odio before embracing Celestia in another hug “You, it will always be you” Dave pressed his face into Celestia’s neck as she wrapped her hooves around Dave’s neck

“Hold up” Odio pushed the pair apart as he turned to Dave “Are you telling me that you don’t want me to empower you? Push your potential to the max? Halo?”

Dave shrugged “Sorry dude” He walked past the fiery red eyes as he held Celestia again “But I love Celestia and I never want to make her cry again”

“What about me?” Odio floated closer “I can cry too!” Odio began making wining noises as sparks and embers shot out of his eyes “See this is emotion!”

Celestia nuzzled Dave’s shoulder as the human gave Odio a sympathetic shrug. The fog of hatred glowed crimson as he growled, his body shook with rage as he saw Celestia holding his only friend

Finally, Odio groaned in defeat as he began floating away, his eyes became dimmer as he floated out the door and through the castle corridors. Cadence and Nox came bouncing around the corner as they laughed playfully, they both stopped as the saw the giant fog in the centre of the corridor

“Oh no” Cadence stepped in front of Nox as she bared her teeth and lowered her horn “What are you doing here King Sombra?”

Odio shook his eyes “Who the fuck is King Sombra?” he growled, his eyes rolled as Cadence gasped and lowered her horn again

“What are you doing here Odio?” She snarled until Odio floated over her head “Where are you going?”

“Leaving” Odio spat “I have no time to mess with you or anypony else, returning to Equestria has been a complete waste of time!” the black fog continued for a few more meters until Dave appeared from around the next corner

“Wait, wait” Dave held his knees as he caught his breath “I had a talk with Celestia and she has agreed to let you stay on two conditions”

Odio stopped swirling as he glared at Dave “Alright what are these conditions?”

“One, you don’t use me as your personal taxi all the time” Dave waited as Odio hummed before finally nodding “And two, you don’t do anything that might split me and Celestia up or destroy Equestria”

“But I am lazy!” Odio groaned “lazing in your brain and coming up with diabolical schemes is all I am good for… well I do make a mean lasagne but that is besides the point”

Dave shrugged “It is either that or you will continue to be hated by everyone” he smiled as the fog parted and Nox ran into his arms “At least if you keep to these rules for a little while then you could earn Celestia’s trust”

“How many millenniums do you think I will waste trying to make friends with some princess?” Odio sighed, his eyes moved down to look at the grey colt in Dave’s arms, “This is your son I take it?”

Dave rubbed Nox’s mane as the colt giggled, “Yeah this bundle of joy is Noxporta, Nox for short,” Dave pointed to Odio “Nox, say hello to Odio”

“Umm… hey” Nox flinched as Odio raced closer and inspected him

“I was there when you were conceived!” Odio chuckled “Your mom moans a lot and your dad is extremely unlucky… but your name is interesting”

Dave frowned “What’s up with his name?”

“I learnt Google Translate” Odio hummed “I have a rough translation… did you name him?”

Dave shook his head “Celestia named him” he sighed as he tickled Nox into a laughing fit “I wanted Houdini”

“That would have better” Odio rolled around the corridor as he made way for Cadence “Hello princess of love, can I have a welcome back kiss?”

Cadence scowled at Odio before she stepped next to Dave “Why is Odio back and what is this about him staying?”

“Odio is responsible for making me immortal and for allowing me to spend time with Celestia” Dave smiled at the giant black fog before he looked at Cadence “I heard something about a King Sombra”

“Oh… him” Cadence rubbed her hooves together “Just something we dealt with whilst you were dead” she looked down at her cutie mark “I ruled for a short time but the crystal ponies managed to get their old council to take care of things”

Odio groaned, “This King Sombra… you mistook me for him” He glanced at his fog before looking back at the pink princess “I don’t recall anypony being as beautiful as I am” he said with a small chuckle

“Basically you but he knew how to keep his mouth shut!” Cadence snapped

“Touchy” Odio swirled around the princess as he hummed “but let it be known that I was the original fog of hatred!”

“He was around a thousand years ago and enslaved the crystal ponies!” Cadence growled as she used her wings to flap the black fog away

“I was around a thousand years ago and I was responsible for Princess Luna turning into Nightmare Moon and for her being banished to the moon!” Odio cheered as he spun in the air “Checkmate!”

Chapter 23

Dave carried Nox into Celestia’s quarters, he stepped aside as a pair of decorators levitated out a burnt bed. Dave poked his head in the room as he spotted Celestia handing over a list to a guard

“And if you could have at least the bed replaced by tonight then I would much appreciate it” Celestia smiled as the guard saluted and hurried out of the warm room. Celestia watched the guard leave and spotted Dave standing in the doorway, Nox resting in his arms

“So how is everything in here?” Dave asked as he looked around the burnt furniture “Anything important lost?” his smile faded as Celestia gasped and ran across the room to a small pile of burnt wood “What’s wrong?”

Celestia sighed happily as she pulled out a small box “This box was enchanted to survive most magical attacks” she looked around the room as her ears drooped “It wasn’t designed to withstand this”

Dave walked over and placed Nox down, he placed a reassuring hand on Celestia’s shoulder as he gently tapped the box “It looks alright to me… whatever it is”

“It contains the bracelet you bought me” Celestia smiled happily as she lifted the lid and removed the silver bracelet, a sapphire rested in the broadest part of the jewellery “It was all I had after you… passed on, so I wanted to keep it safe”

Nox looked at the bracelet before shrugging “Why is this bracelet so special?” he looked up at his parents in time to see them exchange a strong kiss

“Because it proved how much I loved your mom” Dave smiled happily as he rested his head against Celestia’s “She was a bit confused and thought that I was actually in love with Luna and only stayed with her because I felt obligated”

Celestia managed a weak smile “I gave the bracelet to Luna and said Dave had sent it to her” her smile grew as she remembered, “Dave got the bracelet and resisted my guards until he could give it back to me”

“It was meant to show how much I love you” Dave laughed quietly “And when I said that I would never stop loving you, I meant it” he pulled his head back as he stroked Celestia’s cheek

“So this bracelet helped you both love each other?” Nox hummed as he tapped his chin “Can I borrow it and give it to Sweetie Belle?”

Dave smiled as he rubbed Nox’s head “No… oh, you asked her out didn’t you?” Dave sighed as Nox stared at the floor and began to sniff “Hey come here buddy” Dave picked up Nox as he hugged him “There are plenty more girls out there, who knows, maybe one of Sweetie Belle’s friends likes you”

“Pfft like that will happen” Nox rolled his eyes before he began to ponder “Scootaloo and Applebloom are nice but I never really thought about them like I do for Sweetie Belle”

“Well if you never need any help then I will lend you a hand” Dave rubbed Nox’s mane as Cadence stepped into the room “Hey Cadence, did you win the argument with Odio?”

Cadence groaned, “No… he called me a noob, what the hay is that?” she rolled her eyes as Dave began sniggering “Princess Celestia, is this true that Odio is staying?”

“Yes, but if he looks like he thinking about doing anything without asking me then I am going to make sure he doesn’t do anything again” Celestia sighed as Dave stopped laughing and frowned slightly “I know he is your friend but I still don’t trust him”

Dave reluctantly nodded as he let out a yawn “What time is it?” he looked at the wall where the clock had melted “I’m gonna guess late-afternoon”

“Yes” Celestia nodded as she looked out the window and saw the sun nearing the horizon “We should have a new bed before sundown, everything else is being replaced tomorrow”

“What happened in here anyway?” Nox looked around the room as he noticed the damage “And where am I going to sleep?” he looked between his parents as they exchanged looks

Dave shrugged before his eyes popped open “I won’t be here tonight!” he called as he remembered that he was going to help Strong Shield. His sudden idea was hit with a sudden wave of dread, if Celestia knew that he was going to help Strong Shield then she would find out about Flux and Battering Ram or worse, blame it on Odio

“Why won’t you be here?” Celestia tilted her head as Dave began scratching his neck nervously “Is it because of Odio?”

“Well there is this thing at this place” Dave scanned the floor for help as he began to mumble nervously “Alright, I have to… to… go meet some friends” he smiled nervously as Nox bounced up

“Can I come?” He smiled hopefully “Most of your friends are weird and funny looking” he giggled as Dave playfully grabbed him and threw him into the air

“No because these are… some of the guards” Dave smiled as he caught Nox and threw him into the air again “We are going for a drink or two then coming back” he smiled reassuringly to Celestia “Is that alright with you?”

Celestia nodded as she stepped forwards and nuzzled Dave’s cheek “Alright, so long as you come back quietly and aren’t drunk” she teased as she used her magic to lift Nox onto her back “I will see if Luna wouldn’t mind Nox sleeping in her bed again”

Dave smiled as he said his goodbyes and headed for the guard barracks, he nodded to guards he walked past as he entered the main room. Various groups sat around a few of the tables as they were having some rations, a few were removing their armour as they prepared to go into Canterlot

“Um… excuse me” Dave tapped a guard on the shoulder and he spun around in fear, as the guard noticed it was Dave he took a deep breath before saluting

“Yes sir!” the private attempted to stay as still as he could before his hooves began to shake “Is there anything I can assist you with?”

Dave pushed the hoof down “You don’t need to be that formal with me” Dave chuckled as the private sighed thankfully “I was just wondering if you had seen my dad anywhere”

“Sergeant Strong Shield… I mean Strong Shield,” The private growled quietly to himself before saluting again, “I haven’t seen him sir!”

Dave pushed the hoof down again “Alright well if you do can you let him know I was looking for him?” Dave rolled his eyes as the private saluted again “See ya later then”

Dave walked through the castle as the sun set and the moon took it’s place, as the corridors changed from a bright white to a dim blue, Dave stepped out onto the castle courtyard, the gate was now being guarded by guards dressed in dark black and their eyes could have been easily mistaken for feline

“Oh hello Dave” the guard opened the door as the human approached, his enhanced vision allowed him to see all of Dave’s features in detail whilst Dave could only make out a few body parts. Dave shrugged of the face that the guard was almost invisible and began to walk towards the nightclub that Strong Shield told him about

As he walked down along the streets Dave could already make out the low beats from the club’s DJ and owner. He smiled as the bright neon light above the door regularly pulsed above the line of ponies that were already bouncing with the beat

Dave joined the queue as he patiently waited, his eyes avoided looking at the ponies that gave him strange looks. He almost smiled as one nearest to him shuffled away, his smile disappeared as the bouncer pony indicated for him to come forward

“Have I done something wrong?” Dave asked as the bouncer pulled out a clipboard

“No, you are listed as one of our few VIPs” The bouncer smiled as he opened the door “I’m sure Miss Scratch would like to see you”

Dave rolled his eyes “Yeah, I’ll get right on that” he waved over his shoulder as he stepped into the club and the beats began to full his ears. He smiled as he saw the purple and blue lights flicker around the room and the horde of ponies that danced on the reflective floor

There were a few booths and tables around the side of the club, an upstairs balcony hung over the long bar that stretched along the longest wall and stopped as it reached a long window. Dave spotted the small side door that led behind the mirror and into the private room for the club’s owner and DJ

Dave walked over to the bar as he fished out a few bits from his pocket and placed them on the glass surface. He turned and looked at a large pedestal at the end of the dance floor, a white unicorn with a blue mane was constantly flipping switches and turning dials to make the beats work as hard as they could

“So what can I get ya?” A bartender stepped over as he took the bits. Dave turned to look at him, his eyes looked strait at the bartender’s cutie mark of a martini with two olives

“Yeah I’ll have a… whatever you recommend” Dave chuckled as the bartender gave him an understanding wink “So what is your name?”

“I’m Swift Mix” He called over the loud music as he began making a cocktail “so what brings a thing like you into this club?”

Dave shrugged as he scanned the room for Strong Shield “I’m just here to meet a friend” he chuckled as the beat cut out for a moment, only to be replaced by something of lesser quality but still had a good vibe to it

“HEY!” Vinyl Scratch cheered as she hurried over to the bar and grabbed Dave’s head playfully “What the hay are you doing down here again?” the enthusiastic DJ lifted her glasses so they clipped onto her horn and revealed her magenta eyes

“Here for the music and drinks” Dave smiled in response, he thanked Swift Mix as he took a sip of his cocktail, the yellow liquid repeatedly switched between sweet and sour as it travelled down his tongue “And holy hell this is good”

“Nice to see you approve!” Vinyl smiled as she bobbed to the music, her eyes lit up as she looked to the entrance “Do you want to crash in my private room again?” she smiled again as Dave shrugged and downed the rest of his drink “I’ll be two seconds”

Dave got another drink as he made his way to the side door and stepped in. The mirror turned into a window that over looked the partying ponies, the volume of the music dropped dramatically as it turned into a few faint beats. The room was a pure white with a small private bar, a glass table and a round white sofa that was softer than it looked

Dave placed his drink on the table as he happily dropped into the spongy sofa, his ears continued to ring as he relaxed. He took a small sip of his drink before resting it on the table again, as he relaxed again Dave felt something in his back pocket. Dave pulled out a small piece of paper as he read the short note

“Change of plan, convince Swift Mix to meet you in the alley behind the club. Take as long as you need but don’t be ridiculous” Dave rolled his eyes as he saw the note was from Strong Shield. The door opened so Dave quickly threw the piece of paper into his mouth and took a large mouthful of his drink

“Alright girls we can have our own private dance floor in here!” Vinyl smiled as she stepped in the room and held the door open for a group of mares to walk in. One Dave remembered as Spitfire, her fiery hair and orange fur made her instantly recognisable

The next mare to step in was grey with a darker mane, her cutie mark of a treble clef rested on her flank as a deep purple. Another two stepped in one had cream fur, she had a pink and blue mane that suited her cutie mark of three sweets, and the mare that accompanied her was a mint colour with a golden lyre as her cutie mark

The girls all took their seats as Dave continued to drink, his eyes focused on the task at hand rather than the room full of mares. He sighed as he ran out of drink, he placed the drink on the table as he was met by a variety of stares

“This is Spitfire, Octavia, Bon-Bon and Lyra” Vinyl introduced each of her female friends as she hopped onto the sofa “And everypony say hello to Dave”

Chapter 24

Dave laughed as he was handed another drink, the mares with him were all fairly drunk as they swayed in their seats and held their various drinks. The only one that was still on the line between sober and tipsy was Octavia, who still held her second cocktail

“Alright Dave has weird hooves” Lyra called as she lifted Dave’s hand and tapped his fingers “These just confuse me”

Dave nodded as he wiggled his fingers and received a giggle from the mint mare “these things can do nearly everything” he looked at his fingers for a few moments before he returned to his drink

Octavia finally drank the few last drops of her drink before she stood up “Well I have enjoyed our small party but I have to do some practice before I go to bed” She was pulled back into her seat by Vinyl as another drink was poured for her

“Please stay” Vinyl begged as she kept her hooves around the earth pony’s neck “You are always practicing or going to group rehearsals” the DJ smiled happily as her friend started drinking again

“Yeah stay” Dave chuckled “I’m sure Vinyl would ‘wub’ you to stay a bit longer” he laughed as Vinyl stuck her tongue out at him. The white unicorn levitated her drink over to her mouth and tipped the rest of the alcohol down her mouth, some missing and going down her chin

Spitfire walked over from the private bar with a large glass of multicoloured liquid joined by large cubes of ice. She glanced at her old spot before she decided to keep walking and sat down next to Dave “So why are you back in this little club?”

“Little club?” Vinyl blurted as she wiped the alcohol from her chin “I will have you know that this is the biggest nightclub outside of Las Pegasus!” she crossed her hooves proudly as the other girls raised their drinks to her

Dave had a swig of his sixth drink as he placed his arm over the back of the sofa “I have a few… responsibilities now, but I fancied taking a short break and relax” he placed his drink down on the glass table as he burped

Spitfire smiled as she sipped her drink “Well the Wonderbolts are in Canterlot for the next couple of weeks… maybe I could persuade you to attend, I could get you some backstage tickets” she shuffled closer as Dave rubbed his tired eyes

“Yeah that sounds great” Dave smiled enthusiastically, his smile faded as he felt a chill run down his spine. Dave looked around the room as he felt a pair of eyes watch him, his arms pulled back to his sides as he shuffled nervously in his seat “Did it get colder in here or is it me?”

Spitfire shuffled closer so Dave could smell her drunk breath “Aww, if you’re cold then this fire could warm you up” she whispered as she neared Dave’s ear

Dave shivered as the chill in his spine returned, he glanced around the room as his face turned into a frown. Lyra and Bon-Bon were huddled together as Vinyl and Octavia continued to share quiet words, but Dave could not figure out where the stare was coming from

As Dave turned his attention to the one-way mirror behind him, he caught a glimpse of Swift Mix serving some drinks to a few of the dancing ponies. Dave stood up as he remembered his task and made his way to the door

“Sorry everypony but I have something that I have to do” Dave held up as hands at the collective groans “If I see any of you again, don’t hesitate to say hello” he waved as he stepped out of the room and into the loud and busy club

He made his way over to the bar as he came up with a quick plan, when he had an idea of what he was going to do, Dave sat at the bar and indicated for the bartender to come closer

“What can I do for ya mate?” Swift Mix cleaned a glass as Dave lowered his voice so only the bartender could hear

“I understand that you have some… substances in your possession” Dave applied a smirk as Swift Mix glanced around the bar and gave a small nod “How about you meet me in the back alley in five minutes” Dave left a few bits on the table as the stallion took the coins and began to wipe his hooves clean

Dave to the back of the nightclub and stepped into the dark alley that rested at the back of the building, a small light hung over the back door to illuminate the damp and smelly alley

The back door crept open as Swift Mix joined Dave “So, you are looking for some of the good stuff?” he held the door open as a larger stallion joined him, his mane was messy and his yellow body was barely distinguishable in the dim light

“Yes I am indeed looking for stuff of incredible quality” Dave pointed at the new stallion “Why is he here? This is a deal not a gang war”

“Well… you are special with the princesses” Swift Mix stroked his chin “You would be extremely valuable as a hostage” he smirked as the large stallion walked towards Dave, teeth bared

As Dave got ready to fight the large stallion, Strong Shield jumped out of the shadows and kicked the large stallion off balance before tackling Swift Mix. Dave grabbed the stallion in a headlock as he held his grip around his neck. Strong Shield dragged Swift Mix over to the alley wall as he pinned him by the throat

“Do you deal in criminal activities?” Strong Shield glared as Swift Mix struggled against his hoof “Tell me, I can easily cut you and leave you to bleed”

Dave placed his free hand over the large stallion’s mouth and nose as he resisted the stallion’s struggles “How the hell did you fit a message into my pocket?” he looked up at Strong Shield as the black unicorn threw Swift Mix against a bin

“I was the bouncer, I had to change my disguise” He nodded to Dave before hitting Swift Mix across the face “Tell me what has been going on,” he demanded as he forced the bartender to look at him

“T-there was a big deal coming in, lots of product and handovers” Swift Mix threw his hooves over his head as Strong Shield lifted his hoof “that’s all I know I swear!”

Strong Shield sighed as he looked at Dave “I will be two seconds” his horn glowed a dim white as he levitated a syringe and stabbed it into Swift Mix, the black substance was injected in as Strong Shield hid the syringe again

Swift Mix screamed as his legs buckled and he collapsed to the floor, his voice weakened as his face began to droop. Dave’s jaw dropped as the bartender seemed to become lifeless, the stallion in his arms had stopped resisting as he passed out

“What the hell was that?” Dave asked in a panicked tone as he dragged the large stallion behind one of the bins. He hurried to Strong Shield’s side as they looked down at the twitching body

“That potion stopped most muscle movement, just enough for him to say a few things” Strong Shield tapped the paralyzed stallion to get his attention “in ten minutes he will be dead unless I give him the antidote”

Dave stepped away from Strong Shield as he saw his serious face “Wow, dad that is pretty messed up” he turned away as Strong Shield grabbed Swift Mix’s head

“Has any trades gone down? Anything big?” Strong Shield snarled as the cripple shook his head “What about store houses? Labs? Farms? Warehouses?”

Swift Mix’s eyes popped open “Yyeashh” he managed to slur as his eye lids began to twitch and his mouth began to drool. His chest moved irregularly as Strong Shield shook him again

“Which Warehouse?” He glared at the drug dealer “Private property or gang territory?” he moved his ear closer to the dying stallion as he gurgled a few last words

“F-Foul…. Play…. Grrgghh…. D-Damn Rich…. Blugghh…. Train yarrr…. Bought by… by…” His head bobbed from the effort required to keep his head up, his heart was visibly quivering by the amount of stress it was under

Strong Shield roared as he punched the bartender “WHO BOUGHT IT?” He yelled as he hit Swift Mix again “You have about two minutes until your heart stops and you die so hurry up!”

Swift Mix had to concentrate as hard as he could as he forced out a final name “M-Max… P-P-Power” he gasped as he fell against the bin and looked sympathetically at Strong Shield

Strong Shield’s face dropped as he stood up and walked over to Dave “Go home, forget everything” Strong Shield sighed as he kicked the wall in frustration “We aren’t going to the vault anymore”

Dave grabbed Strong Shield by the shoulders “We are giving up? All this effort and we are dropping it?” he laughed in disbelief as he pointed to the dying Swift Mix “And are you going to give him the cure?”

“There is no cure” Strong Shield spat “Even if there was, I wouldn’t give it to a criminal” he pushed Dave away “And I am telling you, as you father, DROP IT!”

Dave managed to refrain from lashing out as he took a deep breath “Who is Max Power? What is this Train yard? And why are we giving up?”

“I don’t have to tell you” Strong Shield stepped up to Dave and poked his chest “Forget everything, the vault is way out of our reach, I know where it is but the danger is much greater than either of us” he turned as he walked away

“So that’s it?” Dave looked around the broken alley, the dead body of Swift Mix was propped against the bin, the other stallion was still unconscious but breathing slowly. He buried his face into his hands as he took a few calming breaths

Strong Shield looked around as well “They fought, Swift Mix won but had a heart attack soon after and died” he looked at Dave with his serious eye “That is the story and that is what happened here tonight”

“You murdered somepony and you are fine with that?” Dave began pacing along the alley “What happened to you being a guard and following the law?”

“Bigger things are at stake” Strong Shield groaned as he turned away again and rested his head against a wall “Just let me take care of Flux and Battering Ram, once they are gone then we will have no problems”

Dave threw his arms in the air as he laughed, “Yeah, let’s go home and pretend that nothing happened” he shook his head at Strong Shield “You know what dad? You were completely different to how I thought you were”

“And I thought you would have learnt to do as I say” Strong Shield responded with a cold voice “Now respect my decision as a father”

Dave shook his head as he walked down the dark alley and towards the castle “Leave me alone and never speak to me again… Strong Shield”

Meanwhile…

Luna flew back onto her castle balcony, her hooves instantly covered her mouth as she landed. The things she saw an hour ago almost caused her to be sick

She had just raised the moon when she noticed Dave leaving the castle. The princess of the night had followed Dave to a nightclub called ‘Shade’. She used magic to turn invisible and follow Dave through the club and into the back room, where she watched him flirt and drink with a group of mares

Luna did not stay for long as she saw Dave place his arm around the wonderbolt called Spitfire. The dark alicorn had left the club and had made her way to the castle where questions filled her mind

What was Dave doing in a nightclub and not with Celestia? Why was he in a soundproof room with a group of mares that were getting him drunk? Was he cheating on Celestia?

Luna quickly shook the thoughts from her head as she rubbed her eyes “Silly Luna, Dave wouldn’t cheat on Celestia… would he?”

Chapter 25

Luna continued to dwell on the things she had seen for most of the night and into the early morning. She rested on her bed as she stared at her hooves, gently tapping them together as she thought. She stopped tapping as Nox began to stir in his sleep and cracked his eyes open

“Auntie Luna?” Nox groaned as he wiped his eyes and sat up in bed, Luna smiled at him as she picked him up and began stroking his mane

“Sorry I woke you little one” Luna managed a small smile as Nox yawned “It is morning anyway, you mother would want to see you soon”

Nox nodded “Yeah, but is it ok if I stay here for a little while?” Nox hugged Luna as the colt snuggled against her dark fur “I don’t get to see you that often”

“BREACHING!” a loud roar yelled out as the door cracked open and a small ball rolled in. The ball exploded in a flash of light that was accompanied by a loud bang. Two humans ran in, they both looked tougher and older than Dave and were wearing camouflaged clothing

“Get the package!” one pointed at Nox, his hand returned to the grip on his assault rifle as his team-mate grabbed Nox and slung him over his shoulder. Luna snarled and fired a blast at the human that grabbed Nox

The soldier dropped Nox and fell onto his back, his assault rifle disappeared and turned into a pistol as he froze, pointing his gun at the wall. Luna was about to fire another blast as the other human ran forwards and pulled out a sniper rifle

“360 NO-SCOPE!” The soldier yelled as he jumped in the air and spun around, firing the gun blindly as he completely missed Luna and shot the wall his team-mate was still aiming at “Ah fucking lag”

Luna snarled and stepped forwards as her horn glowed “Who are you and why did you try to foalnap Nox?” She swiped the human with her hoof in rage “I command thou to speak!”

“Wait, wait, wait, wait” Odio chanted as he ran into the room, two white controllers in his fog “My first controller disconnected and the other wasn’t on a high enough sensitivity” he sighed as he absorbed the false humans back into his fog “Do you mind if I restart?”

“Odio?” Luna snarled even louder as she levitated a confused Nox behind her “Why were YOU trying to foalnap Nox?” she growled as Odio rolled his eyes in wide circles

“Celestia, your sister, wanted Nox, her son” Odio smiled as he reached over with a black tentacle “So if you could pass him here then that would be great,” Odio sighed as Luna placed a magical shield around herself and Nox

Nox nervously watched as Luna stepped closer to the fog “Why would she send you to collect him?” Luna rose an eyebrow as Odio floated backwards slightly “Well?”

“Alright, she doesn’t know that I am here to get him” Odio reluctantly confessed “I came up here to get him to show Celestia that I can be trusted and she doesn’t have to keep threatening me with destruction”

Luna slowly dropped the magical barrier as she stared at Odio “So where are you staying?” she sat down and placed Nox between her hooves as she continued to stare at the black fog filling the doorway

“In a spare room, small but it will do” Odio floated back out the door to release Luna’s guards from their temporary bindings that Odio had placed them in “If I wanted to do something evil, don’t you think I would have done something better than send in Woods and Mason?”

Luna shook her head “I don’t understand that reference” she held Nox tighter as Odio chuckled in his low voice. His flame eyes glanced at the two alicorns before he bowed to Luna

“If there is anything I can do that will prove I have changed then I will fulfil that task to the best of my ability… as soon as I complete Assassin’s creed” Odio smiled before Luna’s sly smile made him retreat slightly “Why do I get the feeling I am going to regret this?”

Luna placed her hooves over Nox’s ears “I will let you take Nox to Celestia, so long as you go inside Dave’s mind and…” Luna was cut off as Odio shook his eyes

“Uh uh, no can do princess” Odio held up a single tentacle of fog “Rule number one, no invading Dave… I just realized how gay that sounded” Odio muttered to himself until Luna coughed loudly “What am I looking for?”

Luna pressed her hooves over Nox’s ears even tighter as she lowered her voice to a whisper “I need you to find out if Dave is cheating on Celestia” she frowned as Odio gasped and flew around the room

“I don’t have to read Dave’s mind to know that he hasn’t cheated” Odio swirled beside Luna “Remember when me and him managed to capture you, Celestia and every other pony in this city?”

The princess of the night turned her head to glare at Odio “That was one of the most horrible events in my life, coincidentally the worst was also your fault”

“Pfft, we can sit here all day and point fingers… hooves… fog… penis…” Odio hummed before shaking his eyes again “ANYWAY, the point I am saying is that Dave threw himself in front of Celestia when I attempted to attack her, even though he wasn’t going to be with her”

“Yes but what if…” Luna was cut off as Odio raced forwards and stopped by her face

“No what if’s?” Odio growled, “Dave would kill me to protect Celestia, he died to forgive her” Odio glared as Luna stared at the floor “You were hoping this would break Dave and Celestia up weren’t you?”

Luna shook her head “N-no!” she looked up at Odio’s unconvinced stare as her eyes began to water “I just didn’t want Celestia hurt again, she suffered so much when Dave was dead and I didn’t want her to…”

Odio managed to stop Luna from talking by simply looking away “You were hoping that you could either convince Dave to spend time with you in exchange for silence or… Celestia dumped Dave and you could snatch him up on the rebound”

Luna sighed as she removed her hooves from Nox’s ears and gave the grey colt a tight hug “Nox, go with Odio and he will take you to your mother” Luna kissed the top of his head before finally placing the prince down

“B-but auntie Luna, I though that you wanted to spend some time with me” Nox’s ears dropped in disappointment as he let his wings dropped to his side “W-well I suppose I will speak to you soon”

“I promise” Luna smiled as Nox waved and slowly walked out of the bedroom, Odio floating behind him as they left Luna’s quarters . As the guards closed the door, Luna dragged herself into her bed and curled into a ball as she allowed her built-up emotion to escape

Meanwhile…

Dave’s eyes finally opened to greet the morning sun, its rays of bright light managed to directly hit his face, forcing him to sit up and rub his pained eyes. He stretched his back until he heard a loud crack and then he finally relaxed

The groggy human sat up and scanned the room, making sure he avoided making any noise loud enough to add injury to his already painful hangover. He saw his trench coat was folded neatly beside the new bed that he was resting in, the other pieces of furniture that were burnt had been removed

Dave reached down at picked up his trench coat, the sound of dragonscales scratching the stone floor made him cringe. His ears also picked up the sound of paper landing on the floor, he looked back over the bed and saw three letters had fallen out of his coat

He picked up the three small letters as he spread them out on the bed, all were addressed to him and they all had separate handwriting. Dave picked up one at random and opened the small seal, carefully removing the small piece of paper within. The first letter was written neatly and had a small kiss left at the bottom in light pink lipstick

Dave

I left you sleeping when I got up, I should be with Nox by the time you awaken

Love Celestia

Dave smiled as he held the letter for a few more moments, his day had started perfectly and he was sure nothing could ruin it as he picked up the letter with simple yet clear handwriting

To Dave

Keep your mouth shut about what happened last night

From Strong Shield

Dave chuckled as he screwed up the message up and dropped it back on the bed and picked up another letter. The next one had a similar handwriting but had slightly more flair and smelt faintly of perfume, Dave opened it before the flowery fragrance

Dear Dave

If you think we are going to fall for your fathers excuse then you are poorly mistaken. The vault does not contain Project Harvest as it was abandoned thirty years ago. Do not play with us again or we will play with your family

Sincerely Flux and Battering Ram

Dave groaned as his perfect day had been instantly overshadowed by threats and warnings. He climbed out of bed as he got dressed and hurried tearing up the letters, except for Celestia’s which he placed back in his coat pocket

He left the room as he made his way down the steps that took him back into the bowels of the castle, his slow pace allowed his to say a few words to passing guards and servants as he enjoyed his stroll.

Eventually Dave walked into the large dining hall but it was empty and held no trace that it had even been used. Dave stepped back into the corridor as he looked around, finally spotting a passing servant

“Excuse me!” Dave jogged over to the servant that was carrying a saddlebag full of cleaning equipment “I don’t suppose you know where Celestia is do you?”

The maid turned to Dave and quickly bowed “She is in the throne room your majesty”

Dave shook his hands as he laughed, “There is no need to bow to me, I’m not a king or prince” he was cut off as a large, very light grey stallion stepped beside him, his large horn was neatly kept and slightly reflected the sun

“Well I hope that you don’t drag every member of the royal family through the mud” The unicorn glared at the maid until she bowed again “These servants need to know their place” he muttered in disgust

Dave rose his eyebrow at the stallion “I’m sorry, who are you?” he crossed his arms as the stallion ran a hoof gently over his light amber mane

“I am Prince Blueblood” the high-class unicorn attempted to look down his nose at Dave, even though the human was an inch taller “I wouldn’t go into the throne room, the room is filled with commoners that are dying to see what luxury looks like”

“Nice to meet you… I suppose” Dave held out his hand to the prince “So how are you a prince? Are you from another country?” Dave rolled his eyes as Blueblood covered his hand in a handkerchief before shaking it gently

“Princess Celestia is my aunt” Blueblood smiled proudly “I would have met you before to deter my aunts from taking you in as we have no idea what kind of background you grew up in” He didn’t notice Dave’s hand had clenched into a fist “We wouldn’t want to spoil the bloodline would we?”

Dave grounded his teeth together as the pompous prince began to let out a hearty laugh. Dave was about to raise his arm as a black fog swept around his eyes

“Guess who!” Odio smiled as Dave wafted the fog from his face and gave him an unamused smile “Come on, you couldn’t be bothered? I know it could have been a bit difficult but at least try”

Dave’s smile faded as Prince Blueblood groaned in disgust “What kind of cruel apparition is this?” the prince held his handkerchief over his mouth so he did not inhale any of the fog

Odio glanced at Dave but only gave a sly smile as he slowly looked back at Blueblood “Well if it isn’t another descendant of Nobility” Odio’s smile grew as Prince Blueblood’s eyes widened “Yes I was around a thousand years ago, your ancestor was very nice and kind”

“So his family has always been free-loading off Celestia and Luna?” Dave smiled as Blueblood glared between the human and the fog of hate

“No, his family became nobility many generations ago” Odio looked out of the window as he sighed “When the princesses were very young and inexperienced, they took in a poor homeless couple and accepted them as their own”

Dave, Blueblood and the servant mare looked at Odio as the room took on a pink hue. Odio sighed as he ran a small tendril of fog along the window

“They respected the princesses and did their best to repay them” Odio looked back at Blueblood “As they died, their children were kept and stayed as royalty, to carry on their parent’s good name”

Dave stepped forwards as the servant began to smile “So what happened to the children?”

“They forgot their roots and became pompous pricks like this one,” The room returned to normal as Odio sighed, “Celestia couldn’t bring herself to do kick them out and dishonour the memories of the original couple”

“How dare you!” Blueblood glared “I am of noble decent and you have no right to make up ridiculous claims like that” he flared his nostrils

“Yeah, yeah whatever” Odio turned back to Dave “Really important, do you know the best weapon to kill Bloodwing with in Borderlands 2?”

Dave’s face dropped as his face went pale and his eyes began to water “You kill Bloodwing?”

“Ohh” Odio chuckled “Sorry I forgot you have been dead”

Chapter 27

Celestia stepped into her newly furnished room, the clock had been replaced and her wooden desk had been replaced with a desk made of gold and silver. The walls and floor were clean again, the windows replaced with new glass and the mannequin that was used to hold her regalia was now accompanied by a smaller one for Nox and a human shaped one for Dave

Nox walked in after his mother and went up to his mannequin, only the chest of his regalia had been made and he quickly put it on. It was lightweight obsidian that housed a large diamond in the centre, the size fitted Nox perfectly and he started doing heroic poses to himself

Dave chuckled as he saw Nox’s royal attire “If Odio sees that obsidian and diamond combo then he is going to faint” he smiled as he wrapped an arm around Celestia and kissed the side of her head “Did I ever tell you that I loved you?”

“Many times and I hope you never stop” She smiled as she used her magic to fix Nox’s messy mane “And you need a bath, you have had a lot of excitement recently”

“Aww mum” Nox groaned in protest as he removed his regalia and placed it back on the mannequin before dragging himself into the bathroom. His groans of protest quickly changed to excited cheers as he swam around the pool

Dave smiled as Celestia turned and wrapped her hooves around his neck “I hope you didn’t mind what I did in the throne room, it just felt right” Celestia nuzzled Dave’s shoulder until he gently lifted her head

“So long as I get to kiss you then I have absolutely no problem with anything” Dave smiled as he gave Celestia another kiss, forgetting that the bedroom door was open and that two guards were trying to ignore the sounds of gentle moaning

“Psst” One guard whispered to the other “Why is it that we get promised a lot of cool stuff and then the world is saved by a bunch of girls?”

The other guard shrugged “I don’t know, while Strong Shield was sergeant at least we did regular drills to keep ourselves active”

“I know, I wish we had something interesting happen again” the first guard sighed “Just once”

“Whoa don’t talk it up” the second guard frowned “you know I hate it when you do that”

The first guard scowled “Nothing happens in this castle anymore, a thousand years ago there was danger at every turn!”

“A thousand years ago, everything happened” The second guard rolled his eyes “Discord, Nightmare Moon, Sombra, Herpes”

“Those were the days” the first guard shook his head “when guards couldn’t sleep with a witness without catching either a criminal or an infection”

Meanwhile…

Strong Shield strolled down the corridor as an angry Odio floated alongside him. The black fog glared at him even though the black unicorn continued to ignore him and continued to walk

“So you are going to give me the silent treatment for the rest of your pathetic life?” Odio spat as he sneered at the unicorn “I know that something is going on, I don’t need to read minds to know that”

Strong Shield groaned “All you need to know is that I will resolve this issues and make sure that Dave is safe” he turned his head away from the fog as he reached the guard barracks and headed for the abandoned recruit quarters

Odio smiled sarcastically to the guards that glared at him, he followed Strong Shield into the room before snarling again. “You won’t protect Dave from both of them, let me kill them and we will have no problems!”

“No” Strong Shield sighed “They are my responsibility and I will take care of them myself” he began opening his secret room as Odio watched in wonder “Just keep yourself out of trouble”

Strong Shield opened his secret area as Odio rushed in after him and began to inspect the various rooms and objects. The black unicorn sealed the entrance behind himself as he stepped into a room full of various files and folders

“What the hay is all this?” Odio looked at the lava that flowed in the basin in the middle of the room “It is very nice and certainly seems cosy but… the fuck?”

The unicorn rolled his eye as he levitated a brown folder onto his desk in the main room, he sat down and pulled out a sheet of paper as Odio peeked over his shoulder. Strong Shield quickly read the file before handing it to Odio

“That is the Daedalus, it is in the Manehatten Trainyard because it is unusable, unknown and makes the ponies that spend too much time around it go mad” Strong Shield rubbed his scared eye as he looked at Odio “It’s the perfect prison train”

Odio read the paper and instantly slammed it back on the desk “The Tartarus prison train?” he laughed loudly “How the hell does Tartarus have its personalized train?” Odio lost his smile as he saw Strong Shield’s cold stare “That prison is a massive black fortress that is guarded by a huge three-headed dog”

“Cerberus and the fort aren’t Tartarus” Strong Shield sighed “That is to keep ponies out and away from the real prison” he pulled pictures out of the folder as he looked at them with a vacant stare “The real prison is a gap in reality, every reality”

“So Tartarus is a black hole in space, time and all the universes?” Odio floated gently to look at the pictures of a pony covered in deep cuts “What happened to him?”

“He volunteered to go in” Strong Shield sighed “He came out ten minutes later with information that every universe dumps their most horrific monsters in Tartarus” he tapped the pictures “he died within his first day inside, info carved onto his own body”

Odio shook his head as some of the images became even more brutal “how could the vault get in there without the Daedalus? And what were this Project Unity and Project Harvest?”

“The vault… I have no idea” Strong Shield walked over to the lava centrepiece as he dropped his head “both the projects were run and created by Puppetmaster”

The fog of hatred scowled “How come I have never heard of this?” He whirled around Strong Shield’s head as he rested the other side of the gold basin “I have read your mind and this is completely new to me”

“After the incident of Project Unity I fell into a depression, I used magic to hide my injuries and drank to hide the memories” Strong Shield rubbed his head as he felt all the buried emotion strike at him “When the Mercenary War happened I threw myself at it for no reason, maybe I wanted to die or I wanted to fight for justice”

“Well aren’t you Max Payne?” Odio chuckled before he sighed at Strong Shield’s depressed face “Sorry… continue”

Strong Shield smirked “I got beaten up so badly, I was almost killed and left for dead” He paused as Odio giggled “Anyway I was thrown into a river and floated downstream and out of Equestria, I was retrieved by a family of zebra that nursed me back to health”

“Zidindi” Odio whispered as Strong Shield let out a slow and regretful nod “her family helped you and you slept with her?”

“Yes” Strong Shield groaned as his ears drooped “My mind was haunted by Flux and Battering Ram, I thought I had killed them but… I was wrong” he glanced at Odio before continuing with his tale “Zidindi helped me recover and put the past behind me, she loved me but I was still thinking of Flux”

Odio dipped a tendril into the lava and swirled it in small circles “I suppose that you returned to your badass ways and defeated the mercenaries”

“Yes” Strong Shield said proudly “I stopped the private war and left the mercenary business to die” he shuddered as he looked down at his body, many small scars covered his body, he tapped one on his hoof “I got this when I punched a minotaur to death”

“Oh shit really?” Odio hurried over and inspected the battle scar “How the hell did you pull that off? I can understand Battering Ram doing that but you!”

Strong Shield nodded “I pinned him to a wall by running him through with a few spears and then punched his head until his jaw broke and his teeth cut my hoof”

“Ouch” Odio giggled excitedly as he poked a scar on Strong Shield’s thigh “How did you get this? Probably fighting a dragon armada or something”

“Basic training” Strong Shield chuckled “Our captain of the guard handled the training back then, I got this when he was doing one of his speeches” Strong Shield traced the thin line across the front of his leg “I asked a question and this was my answer”

Odio laughed, “Wow that captain sounded like a major dick” he smiled at Strong Shield “What happened to him? He died thirty years ago and Shining Armour has been the first to replace him”

Strong Shield stopped smiling “I killed him” he shrugged “Long story short, he was bad and was responsible for Puppetmaster, so I killed him and somehow got away with getting the job of sergeant”

“That is one way to get promoted” Odio chuckled “So what was Project Unity?” he whirled enthusiastically as Strong Shield levitated over a bottle of brandy and a wide glass. The black unicorn poured himself a drink as he leaned back and stared at the alcohol, levitating the bottle back onto his desk

“Project Unity was designed to unite all of Equestria and beyond” Strong Shield frowned “It involved building an army of mechanical ponies that used brains as a way to improve performance”

Odio shook his eyes as he spluttered “R-robotic ponies?” he smiled “Oh wow, I would love to have some of them!”

“I was going to have my brain removed and placed in one of his latest designs” Strong Shield took a sip of his brandy and cleared his throat “Something about my training would make the machine better than the rest”

“Admittedly Mecha Shield sounds cool as fuck” Odio sighed “But I suppose you would have to do” he joked as Strong Shield glared

“The machines were going to put the world under martial law that was decided by Puppetmaster” he glared at the lava as the molten earth flowed through the basin “Equality and living in fear, the ones that fought would be turned into one of the machines”

Odio sighed, “Well I suppose you did well, considering you had to kill your friends, fight a robot army and lost an eye in one mission”

Strong Shield drank the rest of his brandy in one gulp as he placed the glass on the floor “Puppetmaster allowed Flux and Battering Ram to remain as normal because they were more useful alive than as slaves”

“Until you went in like Captain Price and kicked their shit like a boss!” Odio cheered as Strong Shield rose an eyebrow at the fog’s unusual eagerness “Or used CQC to totally own them! Like Solid Snake, not like Raiden… well maybe Metal Gear Solid: Guns of the Patriots, but not Sons of liberty”

“I think those video games have messed you up” he rolled his eyes as Odio began muttering quietly to himself “Why are we even down here? I never asked for this”

“AH!” Odio cheered “Adam Jensen! Definitely Adam Jensen style!”

Chapter 28

Flux and Battering Ram both sat at a small table in the corner of the quiet bar, the other patrons were drowning their sorrows into alcohol whilst the bartender happily served the drinks as long as the customers had the bits to pay with

Battering Ram slid a strong cider to Flux and she began to gulp it down, her eyes resumed staring at the same spot on the floor as she finished her alcoholic beverage. The large earth pony sighed as he placed a straw in his soda and drank gently

“All those mares and he expects me to shrug it off” Flux folded her hooves on the table and dropped her head into her makeshift pillow “We were going to get married at one point you know”

“I know” Battering Ram sighed, “I was going to be the best stallion” he tapped his hooves before looking back at the depressed Pegasus “That was a huge risk going to see him”

Flux sat up and rubbed her eyes “I know but I had to speak to him, it is my fault that Strong Shield and I broke up” she ran a hoof over her smooth mane “I suppose that thirty years is long enough to think about the past”

“I don’t want to hurt him either but he has the key to the vault, he knows where they both are now so it is a waiting game until he tries to make a move” Battering Ram glanced at the door as a small group of stallions walked in

The lavender Pegasus looked at her hooves “I wanted to grow old with Strong Shield, not grow up old fighting him” she looked up at her large friend as she groaned again “I know what you are thinking”

“If we get the key from him then I can go to the vault and you can try and mend your broken relationship with the guy that almost killed us” Battering Ram frowned slightly as he spotted the group of stallions approaching him

“Well hello there beautiful” The obvious ringleader stepped closer to Flux, his large orange wings flared into Battering Ram’s face “How about you ditch the fat lad and I show you a really good time” he smirked as his gang of five other pegasi sniggered

“I’m fifty one, kill ponies for a lifestyle choice and I am in a really bad mood” She rolled her head to look at the brash Pegasus “So how about you take your friends away and give each other hoofjobs”

The Pegasus snarled as he slammed his hooves onto the table, causing the other patrons that were trying to drink themselves into amnesia to leave the bar. The owner nervously began washing glasses and mugs as he watched the gang of pegasi try to intimidate the pair of older ponies

“Don’t talk to me like that you washed up whore!” the leader spat, his eyes flared at Battering Ram “What the hay are you looking at you pansy?” he swatted the small straw out of Battering Ram’s drink as his gang muttered insults to assist their leader

Battering Ram slowly stood and towered over the gang as he rested his hoof on the table “I suggest you leave while you still have the basic ability of breathing” he said calmly as the gang frowned and bared their teeth

“And what are you gonna do you overgrown weirdo?” they grinned as Battering Ram looked at Flux before taking a calm breath and sitting down

“We ain’t looking for trouble” Battering Ram picked his straw off the table and replaced it in his drink “Just leave us alone”

The leader smirked at his crew as he pushed Battering Ram’s drink off the table “Too late for that” he smiled as Battering Ram still held the straw in his mouth “You are pathetic you freak, you wouldn‘t try a thing, even when me and my crew are using your mare as a bucket”

Flux winced as she covered her eyes with her hoof and leaned back in her chair. Battering Ram spat out his straw as his eyes opened in anger, he looked up at the gang as he snarled at the pegasi that grinned at his friend

The large earth pony grabbed the leader’s head using one hoof and slammed it through the table and into the floor. Battering Ram rose out of his chair and used an uppercut to knock one of the gang members into the wooden ceiling before he elbow dropped another with enough force that his body snapped in half

Ram then used one hoof to swat a forth gang member across the room and into a wall whilst he punched one with enough force to send him out the pub window and crash into a shop window on the other side of the street

The final gang member tried to run for the door as he saw all his friends brushed aside by the mountain of muscle. He just opened the door as Battering Ram grabbed him and pressed his face against the edge of the door

“I would say that the door is two inches thick of solid wood and is also half a meter wide” he brought his mouth close to the crying Pegasus’ ear he whispered “Which would you prefer I push your head through?”

“P-please, we were only messing around” The Pegasus sobbed as Battering Ram roared into his ear

“YOU PICKED ON MY FRIEND!” he continued to growl into the ear of the Pegasus “I don’t like having my friends hurt in any way” he pulled his head away as he pushed the head of the Pegasus through the entire width of the door and stopped when he hit the hinges

The bartender gasped as splinters and blood sprayed around the room, the Pegasus went limp as his head ceased to have a shape that resembled a head. The door was messily cut in half as the sharp wood held up the Pegasus body

Flux stood up and walked across the room, dropping a bag of bits on the bar as she nudged Battering Ram out of the pub and into the dark streets of Canterlot. They both quickly began walking towards another street where the road was darker

“Another place we can never go to again” Flux sighed angrily “one definitely dead, one possibly dead, one crippled and the other three with serious injuries… all in under a minute because you can’t keep calm”

Battering Ram snorted, “I can be calm, but I can’t stand by and let us get walked over” he looked down at his friend “I’m sorry about them but we are both under a lot of pressure because of Strong Shield”

“I know” Flux sighed as her ears drooped against her head “He has never been off my mind”

The large earth pony looked down at his companion “Listen, we both made our commitments and Strong Shield made his” Battering Ram stopped walking as he gently placed his huge hoof on Flux’s shoulder “What are we going to do if Strong Shield doesn’t do anything?”

“Then we tear his life apart” Flux growled as she wiped her tear from her face “The needs of the many, outweigh the needs of the few” she nodded as she looked up at Battering Ram “That is what we stand by and that is what we must pursue”

Battering Ram smirked as he walked up to one of the houses and opened the door, allowing Flux inside before closing the door and placing an anvil behind it “If push comes to shove, who do we target?”

“He held his guards highly” Flux began lighting a fire in the dusty fireplace “We take one of them and he will retaliate” she looked over her wing at the earth pony “We will only take Dave or Nox if the situation becomes dire”

“We touch either of them then the princesses will know and our cover is blown” Battering Ram sighed as he walked over and sat next to Flux “And I thought death was going to be peaceful” he rubbed his hooves as the fire finally flickered to life and bathed the room in a warm glow

Flux shivered as the heat from the fire began to battle the cold air in the room “you made the choice to save yourself or save me” she smiled as the earth pony nodded “luckily we saved each other”

“I still will never know how Strong Shield managed to beat us both” Battering Ram reached around and felt the large scar across his spine “losing the use of your rear legs really makes you think about life”

“You still managed to get us to safety” Flux smiled as she pulled Battering Ram’s hoof away from his scar “Don’t dwell on the past, just make sure that we are ready next time”

Battering Ram nodded “Alright, I’m going to hit the sack” he stood before walking towards the stairs “Don’t beat yourself up too much” he waved before ascending the creaky steps

Flux’s smile lasted until she heard the large earth pony crawl into bed, his quiet complaining lasted a few minutes before his snores slowly began to roll through the house. The Pegasus walked into the centre of the room and rested the tips of her wings on the floor, with a deep breath Flux threw her body upwards and allowed the tips of her wings to suspend her body in the air

She slowly lowered her body until her nose almost touched the ground before she pushed her wings straight again, her groans never got louder than a quiet grunt every time her wings became fully stretched

As Flux continued her exercise, she closed her eyes as memories floated back into her mind. Memories that defined her and memories that haunted her, the type of memories that made her stronger and the types of memories that begged her to give up

Her pace increased as she continued to push her body into the air, her wings ignoring that the pain her muscles were slowly gaining. Her hooves remained by the side of her body as her face occasionally winced at the pain her exercise was doing

“If I said that I loved you then that would make you a weakness”

“Do you love me?”

“Yes”

Flux’s wings buckled as she collapsed to the floor, panting as her head rested against the cold ground, the heat from the fire hitting one side of her sweaty body as the freezing air attacked the other side

Growling in determination, Flux rolled onto her front and began doing push ups, her wings rested as she used her hooves to lift her body this time

“The captain has said that I should stop having feelings for you, said it was a distraction that we couldn’t afford”

“Oh, so the captain has ordered us to work together and not have this affect our performance?”

“Basically”

“…”

“But I think that our relationship helps our teamwork”

“I like to think so too”

“You know, Battering Ram is in the barracks and won’t be back for a while”

“So we have the entire room to ourselves?”

“Yeah, if you wanted to we could go over our plan for the next mission”

“Or get some last minute training in”

“I suppose a few rounds of sparing wouldn’t go amiss”

“We could practice a few grapples”

“Counter attacks”

“Positions…”

“…Did I ever tell you that I love you?”

“Many times and I hope you never stop”

“How could I ever stop loving the beautiful Flux?”

“And how could I stop loving the handsome Strong Shield?”

Flux shook her head as she returned to reality, her eyes looked over to the fireplace where a few bits of ash were the only evidence that a fire ever existed. She turned her head and saw the morning sun being blocked by the curtains

“You were talking in your sleep” Battering Ram stood at the bottom of the steps as he looked down at Flux “You must have been exercising most of the night, you look exhausted”

The lavender Pegasus stood but her legs wobbled and forced her to sit down “I needed to occupy myself with something” she sighed as she gazed at the fireplace “I’ll be fine in a minute”

“I’m going to get something from one of the cafés” Battering Ram walked over to the front door and pushed the anvil aside “I’ll get something for you to eat”

Flux nodded as her friend left and she resumed sitting in an empty room as her thoughts continued to pester her

“Are you insane? We are going for Puppetmaster’s headquarters tomorrow!”

“I know, this may be my only chance”

“This is ridiculous”

“Flux, will you marry me?”

Chapter 29

Dave stopped outside one of the castles various guest rooms as he knocked on the hard wood. He tapped his feet impatiently as he heard hurried rummaging and swearing coming from the other side of the door

“Alright I’m here!” Odio pulled open the door, his large fog hiding the room behind him “Dave! Good to see ya buddy” The fog quickly dragged Dave into the room and forced him into a large, leather recliner

Dave looked around as Odio continued to flow around the room, the walls that were once clean were now covered in posters of different varieties. A majority of the posters were of video games, a few were video games and one was a large poster of a wet mare walking out of a sea of sapphires and onto a beach of gold

“Sapphire Shores?” Dave looked at Odio after he read the words along the bottom of the poster. Odio looked at the poster before glaring at Dave

“I like her music” the fog of hatred slowly returned to flowing around the room, replacing posters that he had removed in his haste “Don’t ask how I got these posters, I just did”

Dave shrugged before he relaxed in his chair again, its comfort was suddenly reduced as Dave remembered that he was sat on real leather. “So how did you get this chair?” he squirmed uncomfortably as Odio’s evil laughter filled the room

“I killed many ponies for the glue and I made the leather using all the cows on Applejack’s farm” Odio burst out laughing as he spawned a similar chair into existence and rested on it “Only joking, these are just imitations I made using my fog”

The human rolled his eyes before relaxing again “At least these are comfortable, I did not sleep well last night”

“Ooh were you having some issues being around Celestia?” Odio smiled as Dave rose an eyebrow at him “Are you starting to have doubts and want to spend all your time with me again?”

Dave shook his head “No, me and Celestia had some time alone so we made the most of it” he chuckled as he rubbed his eyes “I tell you, she is nice and regal but in the sack she is a demon”

“DON’T GIVE A FUCK!” Odio yelled loudly as he threw a small cluster of fog at Dave’s face “Now help me with this” the fog whirled around Dave’s head and filled his vision with darkness

“Wow, what are we doing?” Dave looked down and saw nothing but an endless void as his voice echoed continuously “Hang on, are we going into another video game?”

“Damn straight” Odio chuckled as he hummed “Would you like to play an exciting game of Assassin’s Creed, a nice relaxing game of Grand Theft Auto or a tense play through of Far Cry?”

Dave nodded at the options “Well I suppose a nice game of Far Cry wouldn’t hurt… right?” his question wasn’t answered as the black surroundings suddenly turned into a dense forest, small puddles were red with blood and bullet cartridges littered the ground

“Psst, over here” Odio had taken the basic shape of a human except his skin still looked like the black fog he normally was, he was lightly clothed with a dirty vest and a set of military boots and trousers

Dave looked down and saw that he was wearing a green shirt and a pair of bark blue jeans. His trainers were slightly scuffed and a machete hung from his leather belt. He did not waste time in running over to Odio and hiding behind a bush

“Alright” Dave smiled happily as he saw Odio’s machete had carvings across the blade in the shape of a lightning bolt. He looked behind him and saw a jeep driving towards their position “So what is the plan?”

“Wait and see where they stop” Odio dragged Dave to the ground as the jeep stopped a few feet away from their position and three armed soldiers stepped out. They each held an AK47, had a handgun in their holsters and a large blade hanging by their legs

Dave smirked as the military personnel all turned away from their hiding spot “Alright, this is going to be amazing” he quietly pulled out his machete and felt the weight of the blade “Ok if you go for the furthest guy then…”

Dave was cut off as Odio snatched the blade out of his hand, ran up to the first guy and stabbed it into his neck, yanking it out to throw it at a soldier on the other side of jeep as he grabbed the handgun that belonged to the first guy he killed

The final soldier turned as he heard the slashes and the sound of bodies hitting the floor. He turned to face Odio with a gun aimed at his head and a bullet leaving the barrel. As Odio smirked at his kills, he threw a handgun to Dave and climbed into the passenger side of the jeep, picking up an AK47 along the way

Dave rolled his eyes as he retrieved his machete and climbed into the driver’s seat. “There is a thing called teamwork,” he groaned as Odio began reloading the gun, his face turned to glare at Dave before he returned to his assault rifle

“You were a bit slow and I was awesome” Odio smiled as he looked at Dave “I have played this game loads, trust me, there is noting that will surprise us” he sighed happily until he looked out of his passenger window and saw a large bear looking back “Bugger”

The bear rose up on its hind legs and roared loudly, his teeth gleamed in the sun as saliva sprayed across the car windows. Odio opened his door as he hopped out and kicked the bear in the testicles and jumped back in the jeep, leaving the large animal to groan in pain

“Drive!” Odio smirked as the bear collapsed to the ground and groaned as it began to crawl back to Odio’s window “Any day now will be fantastic!” he said in a more panicked tone as the bear pressed its claws against the glass

Dave nervously smiled “There are no keys” he glanced at the angry bear before looking back at Odio “We have guns you know” Dave pulled out his handgun and pointed it at the bear “Just one good shot should do it”

“No!” Odio grabbed all the guns and threw them on the back seats “We managed to get this car in perfect condition and I intend to keep it that way!” he glanced at the roaring bear “Shut up!”

The bear roared once more before a few rapid gunshots rang out and the bear was blasted to the ground by a shower of bullets. Odio smiled happily as the bear stopped twitching, but his smile turned to a concerned frown as a man stepped next to the car and rested his arm on the roof as he looked inside at the two random people

“Is that the guy from all the Far Cry 3 trailers?” Dave looked back to his window and saw three guns pointed at him “Umm… I don’t think they are here for directions”

“Yeah his name is Vaas” Odio rolled down the window as he leaned out of the car and smiled at the man, the scars on his head avoided his mohawk as his creepy smile made Odio’s smile turn sly. “I would like two cheeseburgers, some fries, two cokes” He glanced at Dave before leaning out the window “Do you supersize or is that at McDonalds?”

Vaas reached into the car and pulled out Odio’s machete, he inspected the blade before grabbing Odio’s head and forced the blade between Odio’s teeth

“If you bite down then this won’t hurt as much” Vaas slowly released the machete and smiled as Odio held the machete with his teeth. He was just about to leave before he reached back into the car and turned the machete so it had its point inside Odio’s mouth

Dave looked at Odio as Vaas left the window and walked to the front of the car “I thought he was supposed to be really sick and twisted” he whispered as Odio shrugged. They both looked out the windshield as Vaas tapped on the bonnet of the jeep

Vaas smiled as he swung an assault rifle over his head and hit the front of the jeep, causing the airbags to deploy and force Dave’s head to slam into his headrest

“Ow” Dave rubbed his sore face as the airbag deflated “Now that was slightly mean, he didn’t have to HOLY SHIT!” Dave gasped as he looked at Odio, the machete handle barely visible in his mouth as the blade was clearly out the back of his head

Vaas walked over to Dave’s door and tapped on the glass, waiting patiently with a bored expression as Dave rolled down the window. The psychopath rubbed his nose as he looked at the mess he had caused “Did I ever tell you the definition of insanity?”

Meanwhile…

Celestia and Luna both stepped out into the warm glow of the sun as they walked through the castle gardens. Both the princesses were without their regalia as they found a nice patch of shade to sit in

“So how has everything been?” Celestia smiled as her younger sister stretched out and laid down on the grass

Luna sighed as she tapped the ground with a hoof “Better I suppose, knowing that Nox has a father to take care of him” she smiled to her older sister before her face became blank again

“It is not often we get time to ourselves” Celestia sighed as she rested her hoof on Luna’s shoulder “If there is anything that is bothering you then I would like to know”

The princess of the night sat up again as she turned to her sibling “Well I have been wondering about Dave, not in the way you think” She said quickly as Celestia’s ears drooped “I have been wondering about him and Strong Shield”

“How so?” They get along well and they seemed to have picked up perfectly where they left off” Celestia frowned slightly as Luna nodded

“They have gotten too good, too quickly” Luna tapped her chin “Strong Shield never trusts anypony, even if Dave is his son, he would want to have a conversation before even blinked at Dave”

Celestia reluctantly nodded “I know but Strong Shield has been through a lot, we all have” the princess of the sun wrapped a hoof around Luna “Maybe he his changing and becoming more kind as he gets older”

“Strong Shield being kind?” Luna giggled as Celestia failed to hide a small laugh of her own “Strong Shield has been an exemplary guard his whole life and gave that up to protect Dave… maybe I was worrying about nothing”

Celestia’s smile faded “I should have never sacked Strong Shield” she shook her head as she thought back “I was so angry and I never stopped to think what it would do to him”

“I could have stopped you but I was angry as well” Luna sighed, “I was worried about Dave too, I still am, but I am trying my hardest to keep my feelings under control” she smiled briefly as Celestia sighed at her

“Hiding from Dave is not the same as hiding your love for him” Celestia stroked her sisters cheek as she put on her motherly smile “He cares about you as much as I do, he will understand if you did continue to feel for him but you must understand that he can’t be forced into anything”

“Forced into a harem you mean” Luna pulled her head away as she looked at the various plants and birds around the royal garden “The problem with Dave is that he is so picky, once he finds a problem with something then he will only see that problem”

Celestia shuffled closer to Luna “I know that the harem he was originally in was a disaster and a mistake” Celestia dropped her head in guilt “I forced him into it and that is why he hates the idea”

“Hate…” Luna hummed as she turned around “Do you think we could get Odio to remove Dave’s hatred for harems?” she shuddered as she saw her sister’s furious glare “I’m sorry, I didn't mean to…”

“Speak your mind?” Celestia’s glare disappeared as she pulled Luna in for a hug “I don’t want Odio getting back any of his old habits and I am not letting him touch Dave’s mind again”

Luna returned the hug as the sisters held each other tightly “If Dave ever agreed to a harem and involve me… would you have a problem with it?”

Celestia stroked her hoof through Luna’s mane “If it makes you happy I would do anything”

Luna smiled as she nuzzled against Celestia’s white chest “I love thee very much” she whispered happily

Chapter 30

“All I am saying is that you must have deep emotional issues is you keep getting yourself into trouble” Odio sighed as Dave gave him another glare “Seriously, I don’t feel safe around you” he joked

Dave rolled his eyes “Whatever, I don’t seek out trouble” the human climbed out of his comfortable chair as he headed for the door “Anyway I have got to go do some stuff”

“Like dealing with your father’s mess?” Odio smirked as Dave froze and looked back at him “don’t worry, I didn’t poke inside your mind”

“So what do you know… actually” Dave narrowed his eyes at the arrogant fog “How do I know you aren’t throwing out random stuff and hoping something comes out of it?”

“Giant earth pony and voluptuous Pegasus” Odio smiled as Dave walked away from the door and sat back on the edge of his chair “I admit that your father had an interesting past”

Dave clicked his fingers “Oi! Leave Strong Shie… Dad alone” Dave’s angry expression was slowly replaced with a concerned frown “I can’t imagine what he must have gone through, killing his friends”

“I can” Odio laughed as he wrapped a tendril around Dave and gave him a small cuddle “I killed you and I felt amazing”

Dave rolled his eyes “I meant killing his friends permanently” Dave stood up and away from the fog “You planned me to come back… Dad thought he killed his best friends because they betrayed him”

“Did you know Flux was going to be your mommy?” Odio chuckled as Dave’s jaw dropped “Oh yes, Strong Shield actually loved Flux, strange considering his heartless attitude”

“Whoa, whoa, whoa back up” Dave rubbed his eyes “My dad, the emotionless, workaholic was going to marry Flux?”

Odio nodded “Pretty much”

Dave held his hands up as he headed for the door “Whatever, too much information that I just can’t handle right now, I‘m going to find Celestia and Nox” Dave quickly left the room and left Odio to pout at the door

“Aww… come back!” Odio sighed, “I promise I won’t teabag you as hard next time!”

Meanwhile…

Shining Armour saluted to some guards as they marched out of the barracks on their daily patrols. The captain of the guard entered the barracks and one guard instantly shot to his hooves and saluted

“At ease Private Barrier” Shining Armour smiled as the guard gave a sigh of relief and resumed polishing his armour. The captain removed his purple helmet as he looked around the room, a few groups of guards were playing card games and Private Barrier was quietly polishing his armour again. Shining Armour spotted the pony he wanted to see and calmly sat opposite the lonely unicorn

“Morning, Captain Shining Armour” Strong Shield sighed as he looked out of the window at the city of Canterlot “how are the guards? Or is that confidential?”

Shining Armour placed his helmet on the table as he rubbed his blue mane “Listen I wanted to talk to you about rejoining the guards” he smiled as Strong Shield looked at him “Princess Celestia knows she made a mistake and I am sure she would love to have you back as our sergeant”

Strong Shield allowed himself a small smile “If I wanted the job back I would have asked,” the black unicorn sighed as he relaxed in his chair “I have other businesses except the guards”

“If you have no interest in the guards then why are you always here?” Shining Armour raised an eyebrow as Strong Shield managed to tear his eyes from the window and look around the barracks

“The noise calms me down” Strong Shield glared at Private Barrier “The armour won’t snap! Put some effort in!” he yelled and the nervous private saluted

Shining Armour laughed “Still a sergeant at heart eh?” he smiled as Strong Shield quietly returned to staring out the window “Seriously, you should consider coming back, you can make these guards a hundred times better if you wanted”

“Keep tricks for yourself to ensure your superiority” Strong Shield muttered, leaning forwards as he saw a single Pegasus guard flying towards the castle “Why is he alone?”

Shining Armour looked out the window before a frown grew on his face “I don’t know, it is not time for the pegasi flight patrols to switch either” he hummed before placing his helmet back on his head and waiting for the Pegasus to enter the barracks

The door slammed open as the Pegasus saluted Shining Armour “T-the Canterlot bank is being attacked, the unicorns that are attempting to rob it possess magical boosters”

Shining Armour frowned “GUARDS!” He bellowed and all the guards put aside their cards and cider as they looked at their captain “We have a bank being robbed by powerful unicorns, I want everypony out there to help”

“YES SIR!” All the guards yelled in response as they quickly equipped their armour and began flooding out of the barracks, leaving Shining Armour and Strong Shield to look at each other

“Two minutes and forty four seconds” Strong Shield shook his head “They are slowing down”, he allowed a small grin to creep across his face “I suppose you want me to assist”

Shining Armour nodded as Strong Shield stood and they both began to chase after the rest of the guards “Are you sure? At your age you might hurt yourself”

“I’m fifty three and have been in a coma for four months” Strong Shield glared at Shining Armour “I may be a tad rusty but I am not dead”

Shining Armour laughed as they left the castle and began charging down the cobbled streets of Canterlot “Well I suppose you have a few days to adapt” his smile turned to a serious frown as he saw the broken marble pillar on the front of the bank

“GET BACK!” A bank robber yelled, “We have weapons that will tear you to shreds if you don’t back away!” he yelled in a panicked tone as he turned to his two accomplices

Strong Shield frowned as he saw the golden triangle that was around the unicorn’s horn, three beams of light joining the points of the triangle to the tip of his horn

“Seen anything like that?” Shining Armour asked as he sent the guard away with orders to set up a perimeter. The wall of golden guards slowly backed away from the bank as pegasi began to land on the roof

“There are plenty of trinkets that can help boost a unicorn’s power” Strong Shield shook his head “But I am more interested in the pony that is wielding it” he stopped behind a group of guards as he looked around the front of the bank

Three unicorns stared at the guards, one inside was constantly using magic on the large safe that held a huge bounty of bits and records of each ponies bank accounts. One of the unicorns outside had a magical booster on his horn and was constantly shifting his gaze as the sweat from his head dripped onto the floor

“He isn’t a robber and that trinket has a flaw” Strong Shield sighed as he pointed to the marble pillar that had fallen to the street “Four guards can get behind that and be safe from that unicorn with the booster”

Shining Armour whistled for three guards to follow him “How do we get past the unicorn with the booster? He will fry us before we get near”

“The flaw with the trinket is that it requires a charge up to cast any spell” Strong Shield hummed “It collects a certain amount of magical energy before it can actually be used” he tapped Shining Armours shoulder “I’m almost certain you could walk calmly to cover and still have time”

“Thanks for the advice” Shining Armour nodded to his fellow guards as he lowered his horn “COVER FIRE! ADVANCE!” he charged forwards with his small team as the rest of the unicorn guards fired small magical bolts at the robbers

The robber with the booster saw the small strike team and pointed his horn at Shining Armour, groaning as his horn glowed. The trinket began to spin rapidly as the space between the three beams of light began to fill with a light glow

As Shining and his team dived behind the pillar, they had time to pull their tails into cover as a wave of light raced over then and burnt the ground around their cover, the marble pillar protecting their bodies completely

The captain of the guard stood and faced the robbers, his eyes full of determination as his mouth curled into a snarl. He fired a blast of magic at the robber and succeeded in knocking him against the wall and rendering him unconscious

Shining Armour breathed a sigh of relief as his three teammates followed him over the pillar and quickly incapacitated the remaining robbers. He walked over to the triangular trinket as he carefully picked it of the ground

“I heard Twiley talking about an Alicorn Amulet but I would have never guessed that something as simple as a gold triangle being able to boost a regular unicorn that much” Shining Armour looked up at Strong Shield as he hurried over

The black unicorn looked at all the robbers before stamping his hoof angrily “These aren’t bank robbers, these are hoodlums that wouldn’t rob a granny unless they knew they would get away” he looked at the trinket in Shining Armour’s hoof before looking at the guards around the bank “When was the last bank robbery?”

“About…twelve years ago” Shining Armour smiled “By then you had the guards so well trained that they could smell thieves from a mile away” his smile faded as he saw Strong Shield’s worried face “What’s wrong?”

“You brought every single guard down from the castle” Strong Shield turned and began running at full speed to the castle, running through the pain that his muscles began to scream at him. Shining Armour ordered the guards to start returning to the castle as he hurried to catch up with the scared unicorn

Strong Shield ignored his old captain as he ran down corridors and poked his head into different rooms, his breaths becoming more frantic until he ran into the royal gardens and saw the princess of the sun

“Princess Celestia!” Strong Shield yelled as he ran over “Where is Dave and Nox?” he let out a sigh of relief as Nox appeared from one of the bushes, a wooden sword in his mouth. Dave sat up from Celestia’s lap, a bunch of grapes hanging out of his mouth

The human removed the grapes as he exchanged blushes with Celestia “H-hey dad, how are you?” his smile faded as Shining Armour staggered next to Strong Shield “What’s happened?”

“There was a bank robbery, it’s over now but… whew, you run fast for an older stallion” Shining Armour wiped the sweat from his face as he collapsed to his flank “What was the emergency?”

Strong Shield shook his head “Nothing, just an old fool being paranoid” he sat down as his hooves began to shake, his eye stared at Dave as a smile grew on his face

“I was almost worried when you mentioned that every guard left the castle” Shining Armour smiled “Don’t you remember the contingency that you put in place?”

“Contingency?” Strong Shield frowned again, “I made many contingencies in my years of service” his eye scanned the floor before he looked up at Shining Armour again “Are you talking about the Spotlight Contingency?”

“Yep, in the event that all guards are required outside the castle for an emergency, one guard minimum must find the princess and inform her of the reason” Shining Armour saluted to the princess “Did you receive the message?”

Celestia stood and dropped Dave on his head “No, what is this about a bank robbery?” she glared between the captain of the guard and Strong Shield “Which guard should have sought me out?”

“The only guard that would think about previous orders than get caught up in the excitement” Strong Shield stood again as his panicked face looked at Dave “I need you to help me son”

Dave frowned as he stood up and followed Strong Shield as he bolted through the castle, avoiding servants and guards that walked back through the corridors towards the barracks. Dave and Strong Shield raced ahead as they barged through the barrack doors

“BARRIER!” Strong Shield yelled as his face dropped, his ears cringed in pain from the scream that filled the air. Dave froze at the sight before he looked around for a table, moving as fast as he could as Strong Shield’s hooves buckled and he collapsed to the floor

Private Barrier screamed in pain as his body was suspended over the central table, his hooves being held apart by barbed wire that was buried deep within his hooves and attached to the ceiling. The large round table itself was burning furiously as the guard was being attacked by the flames that swallowed his lower body

Dave grabbed two of the spears by the side of the barracks and snapped off the blades, he moved as far away as he could from the guard being tortured more than his screams could ever explain. Dave pushed off the wall as he dived over the flames at the guard, throwing the spearheads to cut the barbed wire

The guard was almost completely consumed by the flames before Dave managed to grab him in midair, turning so the dragonscales on his trench coat could protect against the flame. He landed on the floor of the barracks as he carefully placed Private Barrier on his side

Strong Shield managed to snap back to reality as he ran to Barrier’s side “Stay with me!” he yelled as he held the young guard’s head “You followed all my orders so far and I’ll be damned if I let you ignore them now”

“S-sir?” Barrier shook as Strong Shield placed his hooves either side of his face “D-did I do good?”

Strong Shield nodded as his eye began to water “You were going to have my job one day you stupid guard” the private smiled until his body shook again and his eyes began to roll away from the guard he always tried to impress. Strong Shield frowned angrily as he held Private Barrier still, his eye looked down at the guard’s injuries “Dave, get help”

Dave stood up as he looked down at the sight “Dad I don’t know if there is anything we can do”

“I SAID GET HELP!” Strong Shield roared as he started shaking Private Barrier again “Stay with me, that’s an order” he growled as his voice began to crack and his ears drooped. Dave turned and ran out the door, yelling the entire time he ran

“S-sir?” Private Barrier coughed as Strong Shield held his head

“Yes Barrier?”

“It was an honour to have been trained by you” he managed a weak smile before his eyes began to flutter again, “May I be dismissed sir?”

Strong Shield bared his teeth before bringing his face to normal, his lip quivered as his eye finally allowed a tear to run down his face. Private Barrier groaned as he used all his strength to lift his hoof and give a salute

“Permission granted” Strong Shield closed his eye as he rested his head against the dying guard’s head “Permission granted Private Barrier”

Chapter 31

The royal guards all surrounded the wooden coffin as they stood to attention, the captain of the guard stood by the top of the wooden casket. The pegasi weather teams quietly removed the greying clouds as they allowed the evening sun to cast long shadows across the graveyard outside Canterlot

“We all knew Private Barrier, his determination and enthusiasm was a reminder to us all about why we joined the guards” Shining Armour put on his helmet as he looked down at the coffin. His eyes moved to look to his wife for support

The pink alicorn gave a weak smile as she brought a napkin to her eyes again. Cadence stood with Luna, Celestia, Nox, Dave and Strong Shield. Each of the royals had their heads hung in sadness, the human glanced at Strong Shield

Strong Shield stared at the grave with a restrained snarl, his eye showed his immense fury as his breaths sounded like they were forced to stay calm. His mane helped cast a shadow over his face as he listened to Shining Armour’s speech

Beside the coffin was an older mare that was beginning to wrinkle and show her age, she wept as the coffin of her only child was lowered into the ground. A guard stepped out from his position as he held the mare back from following the wooden box into the hole in the ground

As the sound of dirt hitting wood began to join the various quiet sobs and suppressed sniffs as the guards simultaneously fired bolts of magic into the air. Every loud crack of magic made Nox wince as the noise made him shuffle closer to Celestia

As the coffin was fully buried and the headstone was placed into the ground to mark the grave of the young guard, the guards saluted and finally began to act as ponies rather than guards. Shining Armour marched straight away from the grave and towards Cadence, his emotional disguise fell as the princess wrapped her hooves around him and allowed him to soak her shoulder with tears

“One guard!” Shining cried “I couldn’t protect one of my own guards”, he removed his helmet as he threw it at the floor “What captain of the guard am I if I can’t even look after my own troops?” as the white unicorn held his wife closer, she began to gently hum a song to him

Celestia stepped next to Dave and rubber her cheek against his shoulder, her eyes fixed on the grieving mother. “I can never feel what she feels right now,” Celestia sighed as she picked Nox off the ground and held him tight, “Immortality is more of a blessing than I thought”

Strong Shied quietly turned away and began walking, Dave stroked Nox’s mane before he kissed Celestia’s head “I’m going to see how my father is holding up” he smiled as Celestia gave him an understanding nod. Dave walked past the group of guards, each of them expressing their sadness in their own ways

Dave caught up with Strong Shield and began to walk alongside the unicorn, looking around at the shops and ponies that walked the streets. Everypony wore something black, from a dress to a small piece of thread tied around a hoof, everypony wore something to show their respect to the fallen guard

Strong Shield and Dave remained silent until they walked through the guard barracks and into Strong Shield’s secret base. Dave closed the stone door behind him as Strong Shield sat at his desk, his eye still full of fury

“Listen, I know it must be tough but don’t blame yourself” Dave sighed as Strong Shield pulled out a bottle of brandy and took a large swig from the bottle

“Blame myself?” Strong Shield growled “I know exactly who did this and so do you” he was about to take another drink before he snarled and threw the bottle against the wall “THOSE BASTARDS!”

Dave jumped at the outburst “You couldn’t have known that this was going to happen” the human took a few steps forward as Strong Shield marched into one of the side rooms

“The bank robbers were decoys” Strong Shield yelled as he threw things around the room “the magical booster was given to them by Flux and Battering Ram,” he returned with two golden blades strapped to the side of his front legs

“Why are you wearing that?” Dave stood in Strong Shield’s way “There is no way I am letting you throw yourself at them whilst you are like this”

Strong Shield snarled, “I am going to kill them, properly this time” he grinded his teeth together as he pushed Dave aside “This is too much”

“Stop!” Dave yelled, “We were lucky the last time we fought them, your anger is making you reckless and stupid,” he folded his arms as he glared at Strong Shield’s head, “if Barrier could see you now then he would say the same”

Strong Shield whirled around and slashed at Dave’s ankles, slicing through most the flesh. “Don’t you dare use his name like that!” Strong Shield yelled again as he jammed his other blade under Dave’s jaw and dragged him against the floor until he reached the large basin of flowing lava

“Look at yourself!” Dave managed to groan before Strong Shield could slam his head into the magma. The black unicorn looked at Dave’s body before he pulled him away from the lava and grabbed his own head

“They killed an innocent guard!” Strong Shield yelled as he punched the floor in anger, the blade left a large scar in the ground “They will pay if it is the last thing I do!”

Dave groaned as he sat himself against the wall “Then we have to stop them from doing anything like this again, we have to do what they want and keep going for the vault” he winced as his ankles began healing “I know you are angry but you have never let your emotions control you”

“I KNOW!” Strong Shield roared as dropped head again and his limbs fell weakly against his body “I just want to make sure Private Barrier gets the justice he deserves”

“He will be avenged, but you can’t do it if you are dead,” Dave scratched at his healing ankles, his chin slowly sealed up soon after “Let’s get the key to the vault and make sure it stays locked”

Strong Shield looked at the blades attached to his hooves as he shook his head in despair “I’m sorry I attacked you, I lost control” he managed a weak smile as he saw Dave’s casual shrug “I will get the key before we depart for Manehatten”

“Getting it last minute would be a good idea” Dave scratched the back of his head, stopping as he realized his fingers were still bloody “Where is this vault supposed to be hidden?”

“Tartarus, at least inside the fortress walls and hopefully not inside the actual prison” Strong Shield removed the blades from his arms as he frowned again “I am going to ask you to do three things for me”

Dave stretched his legs as he climbed to his feet, using the wall to support himself until he was sure that his ankles had properly healed “Sure what do you need”

“You can’t tell anypony what we are doing, including Celestia” Strong Shield waited for Dave to stop his humming before moving onto his next point “second, you are bringing Odio with us, he will be crucial in helping you fight”

“Both of those sound like they could damage me if we get found out” Dave protested before finally nodding again “and what is this final request? Convince Cadence to sleep with Nox in a few years?”

“As much of an idea that is… no” Strong Shield paused to hum in consideration before shaking his head again “When I give you the key you have to swallow it, straight away”

Dave nodded “I understand that it would be easier for me to hold onto it but what size is it?” the human shrugged as Strong Shield rolled his eye “Are we talking about a fork or fishing rod? Seriously, how big is it?”

“Big enough for you to swallow and to retrieve it later when the time arises” Strong Shield began to open the entrance to the secret base again

“Yeah I’m such a slut that I can swallow anything you give me” Dave joked as he began laughing, stopping as he hurried after the unicorn “Seriously is it about three inches big or?”

Meanwhile…

Cadence opened the door to her house, her mane was unusually messy and it still had traces of tears amongst the hair. She gave a small smile as she saw the guests that consisted of Celestia, Luna, Nox and Twilight

“We thought that your husband could do with a reassuring face” Celestia smiled as Cadence nodded, the princess of love stepping aside so the group could enter the house

Shining Armour sat in the living room, a horseshoe rested on the table in front of him, the name of the fallen guard was engraved on one side. His face was calmer but his eyes still showed a lot of weight and strain

“Hey big brother” Twilight smiled reassuringly as she sat next to her sibling “Is that one of a guard’s horseshoe?” she asked, knowing what the answer was

“Yeah, one of four” Shining picked it up as he looked at his own dark horseshoes “One is kept with records, one is buried, one is given to family and one is passed onto whoever the fallen guard wished it to be given to”

Twilight nuzzled her brother’s shoulders as he dropped it back onto the table “Well it must be an honour to know that the guard wanted you to have it”

Shining Armour shook his head “Barrier wanted it to be given to Strong Shield, but I doubt the old fool would care” he snarled again as he threw the horseshoe at the floor “I am supposed to be the captain of the guard! Why do I have this job if I can’t even protect my soldiers?”

“Because you can handle it” Celestia stood with her head held high “You have been the youngest captain of the royal guard in thousands of years, and it would be even longer since we have had one as good as you”

Shining Armour glanced at the princess “I am not good, I let somepony get murdered because I jumped at the chance to stop a bank robbery” he wrapped a hoof around Twilight as his heavy eyelids fell shut “Why you chose me to become captain I have no idea”

Celestia passed Nox to Luna as she stepped in front of the wallowing stallion “You were my eleventh choice” she glared down at the captain looked up “I spent many years without a captain because the one I had decided on refused every time I asked”

“Strong Shield I presume” Shining Armour sighed “that old fart wanted to yell at recruits for the rest of his life” the white unicorn raised his head again to look at the serious Celestia “Why did you end up coming to me?”

“Because Strong Shield said so” Celestia’s eyes dropped as she sat down in a chair opposite her captain “Every time I asked Strong Shield he said no because he said that he didn’t have the right qualities” Celestia pointed at the stallion opposite her “He sent me a letter recommending you on your first day you finished training and became a private”

“Wha?” Shining’s eyes popped open “I have qualities that Strong Shield doesn’t? What the hay are those? Umm… your majesty” Shining Armour finally saluted as he realized who he was talking to

Celestia frowned in thought as she thought back “When Strong Shield was first recruited he seemed normal, his first year went by normally but then…” The white alicorn sighed, “The captain at the time was murdered, inside the castle, just like what happened to Private Barrier”

Shining winced at the name, as if the dead Private Barrier had haunted his vision at the mention of his name. The stallion slowly released his purple sister as he leaned forwards “What happened to Strong Shield? I‘m guessing his was close to the captain”

“Indeed, thirty years ago, right after the murder… he changed” Celestia shook her head “He went from an average guard that wouldn't complain if the armour was too loose, to a cold and isolated sergeant” the princess of the sun frowned “I think that the old Strong Shield died thirty years ago when his mentor was murdered”

Luna stepped forwards “That is why he recommended you, because he would not weep for those that fell in the line of duty” the princess of the night held her head high, forgetting Nox was on her back “You would use that death to rally the guards and take them to a new level that they have never seen before”

Shining Armour looked at the various stares he was receiving before his eyes fell on the horseshoe that belonged to the late guard. He picked it up and glared with determination

“I won’t seek justice, nopony will seek justice, but the guards…” he held the hoof against his chest as his eyes flared in fury and his breathing dropped to a growl “The guards will claim justice”

Chapter 32

Dave held Nox in his arms as he walked up the stairs, the quiet colt yawned as he wrapped his hooves around Dave’s neck and returned to his deep sleep. Celestia nuzzled Dave’s cheek as they approached the unguarded bedroom doors

“I suppose that today has taken its toll on everypony” Dave sighed as he opened the door and allowed Celestia through before stepping in behind her and quietly closing the door, making sure he locked it. Dave carefully placed Nox into bed and Celestia tucked him in as she kissed his head

“He has been so good today, considering the situation” The princess of the sun sighed as she moved into Dave’s arms and nuzzled against his chest. Her limbs grew suddenly heavy as Dave wrapped his arms tighter and gently rubbed his face against Celestia’s head

“You have been through a lot too” Dave kissed Celestia’s head as he slowly released her and guided her to bed. The princess did not have the strength to resist as she climbed into bed and her head fell into the pillow

Celestia sighed as Dave placed the soft quilt over her and ensured there were no gaps for cold air to reach the tired alicorn. Dave stroked her cheek before he slowly began walking over to the sofa and sitting down, kicking his shoes off as he rested his head on the armrest and folded his arms

Dave stared at the balcony window, listening for any sounds before he allowed his eyelids to fall shut and he joined his family with their heavy slumbers. Celestia rolled in her bed and held Nox in her hooves, the sleeping colt unconsciously shuffled so he held his mother in return

The giant black fog that floated by the window let out a sad sigh as he floated to a lower window and floated back into the castle. Odio floated happily as he began humming a tune to himself as he proceeded down the corridor, doing occasional twirls until he passed a depressed Luna

“Good night Princess Luna” Odio said with a smirk, which he quickly lost when Luna ignored him and continued her slow walk to her quarters “Who died?” Odio joked

“Private Barrier” Luna sighed as she began walking up the long steps to her quarters, not looking back to see Odio stop and turn to look at her

“The little tinnie weenie guard?” Odio hurried after Luna, only having to move quickly for a short burst as Luna was still dragging her hooves “What happened?”

Luna sighed as she reached the door to her quarters, “he was murdered as all the other guards left to deal with a bank robbery” she allowed herself to snarl as she turned to Odio “And he was more than you could ever hope to be!”

Odio snarled slightly “It is one guard!” the black fog retaliated “You have hundreds all over Equestria! Why is this one so special?” he growled

“Because he was murdered inside the castle, executed in a way that required effort to out in place” Luna turned away, “Every guard feels guilty because it is their duty to protect” The princess of the night resumed her slow walking, “If they can’t protect their comrade then how are they supposed to protect their princesses?”

The black fog of hatred sighed as he followed Luna “I know this is probably the first death you have seen in a thousand years… excluding what I did to Dave… but that guard would have to die at some point”

“I know but it would have been nice to know he lived a full life and died peacefully rather than being hung by barbed wire and burnt” Luna stormed into her room as Odio’s confused stare was replaced with a startled gasp. As Luna closed the door behind her, Odio whirled around in anger but returned to looking at the princess’ door.

“Listen um… are you alright?” Odio listened for a response but tapped the door when he heard nothing. He casually fitted through the cracks on the door and spotted Luna curled on the bed “You ok?”

Luna looked up, screaming as she jumped into the air, “ODIO!” she shook her head as the fog looked around innocently. The princess of the night crawled back onto her bed as she waved the fog away, “These are my private quarters, and why would you care?”

“Well I apologize for the intrusion to your lair” Odio bowed graciously as he looked back with a frown “And I am doing this for Dave’s benefit” his frown turned to a snarl as Luna gave a unconvinced snort

“You have always been a selfish one” Luna sat up on her bed as she returned the fog’s glare “Why would talking to me be for Dave’s benefit?”

Odio flew closer to Luna as his fog hid most of her bedroom from view “Because if I don’t then you will bottle these emotions up and release them by going in a huff with Dave about how he doesn’t belong to Celestia and all that nonsense”

Luna gasped, “How dare you!” she stood as her horn began to glow and summon a large ball of magic beside her “That is ridiculous, leave now or you will suffer the consequences”

“Hit me with magic and Dave will never look at you again,” Odio said calmly as Luna flinched “I am his best friend, you’re an ex-girlfriend” he floated gently as a smile floated into view “On Earth they say ‘Bros before hoes’ a lot”

Luna’s magic faded as she sat down “Just leave me, you are wrong and I don’t need to prove it” she frowned as Odio floated closer, her horn almost glowing again

“I do” Odio whispered “Because if Dave walked through that door now, one of two things would happen” Odio floated towards the balcony as he began to sift through the cracks “If Dave is worried and mentions Celestia, instant tantrum but if Dave acts all caring to you then you would kiss him”

Luna continued to stare at Odio until he was completely out of the room, increasing her glare until Odio finally floated with the wind and moved to a different part of the castle. The princess of the night groaned as she tipped sideways and collapsed onto her bed, removing the crown from her head as she removed the rest of the regalia

As Luna attempted to drift off to sleep, she was interrupted by a knock at her door. Groaning the princess sat up and quickly made herself presentable, “You may enter” she called, keeping her royal posture until Dave poked his head in, “Oh hello”

“Hey” Dave gave a weak smile as he stepped into the room and closed the door behind him. He stayed by the door as he leaned against the wall, “How are you holding up?”

“Urgh, attending a funeral and then being a subject to you and Odio to mock with your performances” Luna turned her head away as Dave frowned “Funny how you show up right after he left”

Dave shook his head, “I heard that you were talking to Odio and I was hoping you knew where he was” Dave stopped leaning of the door as he looked around the bedroom, “But I knew that you would be in a state because of the funeral so I thought I would at least seem like I cared”

“So you came here to find Odio?” Luna gasped as she whipped her head around to look at Dave, his arms now crossed “Well why did you ask how I was?”

“Because I thought that you might have needed a friendly face” Dave shrugged as he walked back to the door and began to open it, “But obviously this is some giant play to make you look like an idiot, you caught me, I’m off”

Luna sighed as her horn glowed and she used her magic to hold the door “Wait, I’m sorry” She dropped her head as Dave allowed the door to close. Luna rubbed her eyes as she shuffled closer to the edge of her bed, “I have been rather short-tempered since the murder”

“I know it must be hard for you” Dave sighed as he sat on the edge of the bed, “Most of the guards are down in the barracks having a drink, Celestia is asleep, Nox is asleep and I can’t seem to join any of them”

Luna smiled slightly “I suppose we both just need somepony to talk to” her smile grew as Dave nodded in response, running his hand through his hair as he tilted his head to look at the princess

“I guess that you don’t exactly want to be alone right now” Dave gave a weak smile as he sat up and stretched his back, “I can’t get to sleep but I feel tired”

“I feel the same” Luna nodded understandingly as Dave dropped back onto the bed, “The problem with these sorts of events is that you feel strange for a few days until you get over the shock”

Dave grunted in response as he covered over his eyes with his arm, “One guard inside the barracks by himself” the human rolled onto his side as he looked at Luna, “Whoever attacked must have been brave or stupid”

“We will find out who is responsible” Luna turned her body so she could look at Dave with out having to twist her neck, “When are you going back to my sister?”

Dave shrugged “They will be asleep until sunrise and I doubt I could get to sleep even if I wanted to” he scratched his chest as he looked back at Luna, “If you aren’t busy, can I stay and talk with you?”

“Of course” Luna smiled happily as she laid down next to Dave, “you know that we haven’t talked properly in a while”

“Kinda my fault” Dave chuckled, “to be honest I have been avoiding you slightly” he sighed as Luna frowned in concern, “My relationship with Celestia is a bit vulnerable at the moment, so I didn’t want to risk her thinking I still wanted to get back together with you”

“Still wanted to get back together?” Luna’s jaw dropped as Dave slowly nodded, “You mean that you always wanted to… but Celestia…”

Dave rolled onto his back and stared at the ceiling, his hands resting by his side, “I didn’t want to lose Celestia, I had to do everything I could to make sure I stayed with her, including hiding my feelings”

Luna shuffled closer to Dave as her eyes widened in hope and awe, “Dave can you do something for me?” she lifted her body slightly as Dave nodded, “Don’t fight your feelings”

The dark princess rushed forwards and smacked her lips against Dave’s, stopping after a moment to collect her thoughts, But as Dave responded with nothing but a small grin the princess moved forwards again and kept herself pressed down on the human

Luna positioned herself above Dave, her horn glowed as her magic pulled his shirt from his body with ease. She wrapped her hooves around his neck as she continued to bombard Dave’s face with kisses

“I WIN!” Odio cheered, causing Luna jump in shock. The princess looked at Dave in time to see him burst into a black fog and whiz around her to rejoin the main cloud

“Odio?” Luna shuddered as her mind suddenly kicked into gear. Dave’s body should have resisted her magic. Dave brought up the conversation about their relationship and he encouraged Luna’s kissing with a simple smile

“Isn’t it funny how I made a cheap copy of Dave and you didn’t notice?” Odio swirled happily as Luna’s head fell to her hooves, “So long as it had the face you were sold”

“I HATE YOU!” Luna yelled in her royal Canterlot voice as her magic began to illuminate the room and she fired a blast at the fog “HOW DARE YOU DO THIS TO ME!”

“Quite easily, I am a giant fog capable of supporting two forms simultaneously” Odio moved out of the way of the door and floated to the opposite side of the room, avoiding magical blasts along the way. He coughed before putting on a panicked face, “W-what are you doing?”

“What am I doing?” Luna growled, her eyes burning with hatred, “I am going to DESTROY YOU!”

“LUNA!” Dave yelled from his spot at the door, his eyes constantly shifting between the fog and the furious princess

“Thank god you showed up Dave” Odio sighed happily, “I came to talk to Luna but she snapped and started attacking me”

Luna snorted at Dave as her magic surrounded the human, her smile faded after her magic waned and released Dave. Now the princess realized that Odio had tricked her twice within minutes

A tiny strand of fog moved near Luna’s ear a whispered gently, “One half stayed here for the fake Dave whilst the other secretly got real Dave, who found you attacking me… bros before hoes”

Luna’s face dropped as she hurried across the room and stopped a few inches from Dave, “Odio provoked me, he made sure that you arrived when you did, he…”

Dave cut the princess off by raising his hand to her lips, “You were attacking Odio, you have always hated him and you have always wanted me” he looked at Odio, “Him and I are best friends and you can’t stand another obstacle between you and me”

“No!” Luna pleaded desperately, “he tricked me into thinking you and I were… confessing our love again” her eyes began to water as Dave shook his head in disapproval

Dave glared at the princess, his eyes full of anger as they crept over to Odio, “I’m not happy with the way you have been treated recently” his frown turned to a slight smirk as Odio hurried over

“Are you gonna see if we can get something in place that keeps Luna away?” Odio smiled hopefully

“Not you” Dave’s smile grew, “I’m not happy that Luna hasn't spent a day with all her family round her since I got back”

Odio’s eyes widened “B-but she was going to attack me! Didn't you hear those ludicrous lies?”

“Yeah, silly enough that only you could pull them off” Dave stepped away from the fog “I know you well enough to know that you would try something like this eventually”

“But what about bros before hoes?” Odio sighed, “I’ll wait for my punishment elsewhere, start packing or something,” he groaned as he floated out of the room

Luna stammered in confusion, “h-how did? Why did you believe me?” the princess gazed into Dave’s eyes “You looked so disappointed at me”

“At Odio” Dave sighed, “I hoped he wouldn't try this crap but it looks like it is too late, once Celestia finds out then he is outta here”

Luna grabbed Dave’s hand with a hoof, “I won’t say anything, and I know you can come up with some way to punish him”

“Thanks Luna” Dave smiled as he stroked Luna’s hoof with a thumb “I don’t blame you for falling for his copies of me, they are based off of my memories and thoughts after all”

Luna nodded understandably, “Well I hope to see you at breakfast tomorrow… and maybe a dinner with the rest of our family members?”

Dave nodded with a smile, “Of course, anyway I have to go” he left the room, leaving Luna to stand by the door, “See you in the morning”

“I shall be there” Luna smiled as she closed the door and wandered over to her bed, pausing as she made another connection. “Based off of thoughts… get back together” Luna climbed onto her bed and her tiredness quickly beat her thinking as she drifted to sleep

Chapter 33

Odio was calmly removing his posters from the wall as they returned to their natural fog and rejoining Odio’s large mass. The door opened and Dave stepped in with a slight mix of anger and depression.

“Oh hey, I was just getting my things before I am destroyed” Odio sighed, “I was doing it for a good reason really”

“You aren’t getting destroyed” Dave shook his head, “Luna has let you off but that doesn’t mean you are getting away with what you did!” he pointed at the fog to add emphasis that he was serious

Odio whirled closer to Dave, “What did you say to let the princess of the night let me go?” he hummed as Dave shrugged

“I said that you could easily trick anypony because your… clone is based off my exact thoughts” Dave ignored Odio’s sly grin, “So, I want you to apologize at some point and I need you for taking down Flux and Battering Ram”

Odio smiled happily as he whizzed towards Dave, “You need me to do violent things?” he cheered as he picked his friend up in a strange hug

“Yeah but we have to keep this secret” Dave waved the fog away from him, he patted away the final few wisps before looking back up, “I will let you know when we are going and you can tag along”

Odio shook happily, “Ok Dave, I will be right here!” the fog became strangely still as his eerie smile continued to stare at Dave

“Alright… see you later I suppose” Dave left the room and allowed Odio to hold his happiness in as he continued to stay in midair

Dave walked along the corridors, back towards Celestia’s quarters. He refrained from looking around the dark hallways, as he did not want to see anything that could make his already strange night any weirder

He walked up the stairs until he was face to face with Celestia’s door before quietly creeping in and resuming his position of the sofa. Dave smiled at his sleeping partner and child that slept quietly in the bed before allowing himself to sleep

The next morning…

Nox’s head shot up at the sound of somepony knocking heavily on the door, his eyes still groggy from his long sleep. He crawled from Celestia’s grasp as he staggered over to the door, glancing at Dave who was hanging half off the sofa

“Who is it?” Nox groaned as he stood next to the door, rubbing his eyes as a yawn escaped him. He was replied with a short cough before the pony announced itself

“It is Captain Shining Armour, I am here for your mother” Shining called as he waited patiently by the door. Nox slowly opened the door as he looked up at the guard in his purple armour, the captain quickly saluted the prince

“Mum is still asleep” The colt yawned again, “And I think dad will be grumpy because he fell asleep on the sofa”. He rubbed his tongue along his gums as he tried to get the dry feeling from his mouth

Shining Armour chuckled, “well your father has seen worse” he looked into the room at the sleeping princess. He saw a hand dangling over the edge of the sofa and smirked, “We have visitors on the runway!”

Dave bolted awake at the noise and fell off the sofa, landing on his head. The human groaned as he stood up, causing the white alicorn to awaken with more grace.

“Shining?” Dave groaned as he rubbed his eyes at the morning sun, “Honey, can you turn down the sunshine for a few minutes?” he joked

Celestia climbed out of bed and walked over to Dave’s side, nuzzling his chin as she looked at Shining Armour. “Did I hear something about visitors?”

“Yes your majesty, five dragons” Shining Armour saluted the princess, “Ambassador Adamas, an equally large dragon and three small ones that are slightly taller than Dave”

“Small dragons pfft” Dave folded his arms, “There is only one ‘small dragon’ and it happens to live with your sister” he stretched as Shining reluctantly nodded

“Regardless, they want to see you” Shining Armour saluted again, “They say your majesty organised a project to help train new dragon ambassadors”

Celestia tapped her chin before her eyes popped open, “They are showing up today?” the princess of the sun gasped, “I thought that was still a few weeks away”

“What is going on?” The confused Dave asked as Celestia smiled at him

“Adamas asked me if I would allow a few young dragons to stay in Canterlot and learn to interact with ponies” Celestia shook her head before she started putting on her golden regalia, “Something about Adamas wanting the next generation of enlightened to have experience in communicating”

Dave rubbed the dull pain in the side of his head as it quickly faded, “So long as they behave themselves I suppose?” he let out a small sigh of relief as Shining gave him a reassuring nod

“Adamas assured me that they would behave or suffer dire consequences” Shining Armour shrugged as Celestia began placing Nox’s only piece of regalia over his head, “I also took the duty of informing the guests that they must report to me every other day”

“A wise precaution” Celestia nodded, she levitated a comb from the bathroom and began rubbing it through Nox’s mane. Dave chuckled at the colt’s protests until Celestia brushed his hair as well

Dave grabbed the brush from midair and gave Celestia a playful glare. “I am gonna say hi to Adamas and then I might go into the city”

“Alright, just make sure you show up for dinner today” Celestia smiled as Dave and Shining Armour left the royal chambers and began walking towards the runway at the bottom of the castle. Shining’s face wasn’t full of the normal happiness or duty he normally showed when he was on duty

“Hey are you alright?” Dave asked as Shining’s quiet behaviour made him feel uneasy. His armour-clad friend only grunted before he looked up at Dave

“I’ve been better” Shining Armour sighed, his eyes rolling slowly to look ahead again. “I have spent most of my free time making new training methods, but if I had your dads help then I could have guards that could stand hoof-to-claw with dragons”

As they reached the door that lead out onto the runway, Dave held his hand on the door and stopped Shining Armour from opening the door. “Listen, I know what happened to Barrier was hard on you but you have to take it easy”

“And how do you suppose I do that?” Shining glared at Dave. The captain turned to face Dave properly, “I suppose Dave the mighty has a plan to make all our troubles disappear, what are you going to do? Kill yourself again?” Shining spat

“WHOA!” Dave held his hands up, “I am just trying to help out because you look like crap, that’s what friends do, help”

Shining groaned as he rubbed his eyes, “Sorry, late nights have been making me agitated and I have been snapping at everyone”. The captain smirked at Dave, “So what did you have in mind?”

“Well I was planning for a night out on the town, have some drinks and have fun” Dave smiled as Shining nodded. “I need to pop out into the city for a bit but then we can meet in this awesome nightclub I know”

The tired unicorn nodded, his eyes filled with a small spark of joy and eagerness. “Alright I am going to get these dragons settled in, go home and sleep, get in touch with a few friends and then we meet by the castle gates by nine o’clock tonight”

“Get the lad gang back together?” Dave’s smile grew as Shining slowly nodded. The human clapped excitedly as he wrapped an arm around Shining Armour’s neck, “And need to ask you a question”

Shining tilted his head to look at Dave, “What can I do for you?”

“Where did you get a certain gold ring that you needed to commence a certain event that commemorated the union of Princess Cadence and yourself?” Dave looked around nervously as Shining rose a confused eyebrow. Dave shook his head, “You know an engagement ring?”

“OH!” Shining suddenly beamed, “I got it from Rough Cut, he is an old family friend and he owns a jeweller on Trot Road”

Dave shook Shining playfully as he pushed open the doors to the runway. “Alright, let’s get these dragons out the way and then we can make tonight the best night ever!”

“Dude?”

“Garble?” Dave’s jaw dropped and his eye twitched as he saw the familiar red dragon, he had grown a few inches and the small bumps that looked like spots had finally faded

Garble punched Dave’s shoulder as he placed a claw around him. “Dude, why haven’t I seen you around? Gramps here talks about you all the time, as well as that dweeb Spike”

Adamas growled and Garble threw his arms over his head as the huge diamond dragon leaned down, his eyes full of anger. “I did not teach you to speak about Spike in that manner!”

“Jeez, sorry” Garble folded his arms as he looked back at Dave. “So what you been doing?” he sighed as Dave continued to process that one of the most immature dragons around was able to swindle a spot at Canterlot castle

“Hey, I remember you!” A sleek, jet-black dragon pushed Garble aside and ran a claw under Dave’s chin. “You are that frisky ape from the mud bath!”

Dave cringed as he looked up at the female drake, her scales reflected the light in a way that made her body look like flowing oil. The human took a few steps back and attempted to slowly hide behind Shining Armour

“Uh ok” Shining Armour shook his head as he looked up at Adamas. “Ambassador, if your three pupils would like to follow me then I will show them to their sleeping quarters”

The third dragon that was a burning orange hastily followed Shining Armour whilst Garble flicked Dave with a chuckle and the black female gave him a quick wink. Dave shuddered before standing to look at Adamas and the female companion that was only a meter or two shorter than the diamond dragon she stood next to

“Hey Adamas, how have you been?” Dave’s smile turned into a curious smirk as he noticed Adamas’ tail was intertwined with the purple female. “And how is your girlfriend?”

“I am well, and by girlfriend I assume you mean my mate?” Adamas lowered his head slightly and rubbed his snout against the females. “Her name is Sind by the way” he smiled as his companion giggled lightly

Dave nodded understandably, “Right, hello Sind” he waved as the purple dragon leaned down to speak. “I hope Adamas has been treating you properly” he chuckled

“Very much so” Sind smiled as she glanced back at Adamas, a small blush showing through his diamond scales. “Last week he brought me a cow for dinner, a live one!”

Dave’s cheeky smile slowly faded as Adamas leaned down as well. “We spent the entire day resting by each others side, not moving for any reason”

“Except for when we were mating” Sind reminded quickly her face seemed unembarrassed as Adamas slowly nodded in agreement. “Remember, we mated at least five times before midday”

“Does that include that one technique that was suggested by Princess Cadence?” Adamas hummed as he looked at Dave. “Did she tell you the technique? The one where the male goes for the entrance that is not normally used”

Dave rubbed his eyes as the two dragons began discussing the various positions and motions in great detail. He covered his ears as they both began to make small noises to help describe the situation

“Why do dragons have to be so blunt and straightforward?” Dave groaned as Adamas and Sind looked at him. “Seriously, can’t you both just say you had a wonderful day rather than describe exactly how you did it?”

Adamas bowed his head, “I understand, some cultures use metaphors to describe some actions” he looked at Sind as she slowly nodded and extended a claw to Dave

“Nice to meet you” she smiled as Dave shook one of her sharp claws. “Adamas used his boa constrictor to razzmatazz my dungeon, making sure to thoroughly paint my stairs with his syrup”

Dave’s hands went straight over his face as the mental image began to assault his mind. Sind looked to Adamas for judgement and smiled happily as he gave her a nod and a nuzzle

Chapter 34

Dave happily left the castle runway as Sind and Adamas began to describe other ways that his tree trunk had raided Sind’s theatre. Dave gave a short nod to the guards as he jogged out onto the city streets and stopped to catch his breath

“Ah, Davestia” A posh voice called as Dave glanced over to see the handsome white stallion walking towards him. The stallion’s golden monocle was an extravagant accessory that went with his neat blue mane

“Hey um… Fancy Pants” Dave remembered as he saw the slim, elegant figure of Fleur de Lis appear suddenly beside him and began leaning across his back to look into a shop window. “What was it you just called me?”

“Oh haven’t you heard?” The gentlecolt sighed as he smiled at Dave. “Some of the ponies around the city have began calling your relationship with the princess, Davestia”

Dave scratched the side of his head before shrugging, “Why not just say Dave and Celestia?”

“I’m afraid we will never know why these little trends become so popular” Fancy Pants’ horn glowed as he levitated a cloth to clean his monocle. “But it does have something to do with the situation of you pairing”

“Situation?” Dave frowned slightly. He looked around for street signs before looking back at Fancy Pants and his clingy wife. “Do you know where Trot Road is? I am in a small hurry”

Fancy Pants nodded understandably, “We can walk and talk can’t we?”

Dave indicated for his posh guide to take the lead, “So what was this situation you are on about?”

“Yes the small matter of the change of names” Fancy Pants nodded to a few ponies as he passed them, the streets of Canterlot becoming slightly more crowded. “Will Celestia be taking your last name or will you be changing yours in some way?”

Dave opened his mouth to respond but stopped before he could make a sound. After humming Dave finally responded with a simple, “I have no idea”

“Well I suspect that a wedding is coming soon” The white unicorn smiled, “Why else would you want to go to the road that has the jewellers that provided the rings for the previous royal wedding?”

Dave shrugged, “I suppose you caught me,” the human sighed as he glanced around at the posh ponies, a few bowing slightly to him as he passed by

“Don’t worry, I shall keep quiet about the whole affair” Fancy Pants nodded as he indicated to a large street that branched away from the main street. “But your wedding will most likely be a larger event than the previous royal wedding”

“How so?” Dave spotted a wooden sign swinging in the wind, the wood was varnished and the letters stood in clear gold letters

Rough Cut’s pure cut gems

Fancy Pants used his magic to open the door for Dave and Fleur de Lis. He stepped in shortly after and looked around the empty shop, “Well Princess Cadence is a… recent addition to the royal group, whereas Princess Celestia has been the serving royal since Equestria began”

“I see your point” Dave sighed as he looked into the various glass cases at the numerous combinations of gems and metal rings. One sat separate from the others and had a tag stating that it was a replica of Cadence’s wedding ring

“The royal wedding did bring me a lot of business” An old stallion called as he stepped out from a back room and smiled at the customers. “Was there a particular item you required or are you just browsing”

Dave slid over to the main counter, a bead of nervous sweat already forming on his head. “Yeah I need an engagement ring”

“YOU!” Rough Cut gasped, his silver mane moved to reveal a few bald spots and his hooves began brushing small crumbs from his green fur. “I apologize for my late response to you, your majesty”

“Stop right there!” Dave held his hands out, “None of this royal crap with me, ok?” the agitated human frowned at the shopkeeper’s confused expression. “I don’t want to spend ten minutes listening to you repeat ‘your majesty’ when I came in here to buy a ring!”

Rough Cut shrugged, “Alright, whatever you want” he groaned as he leaned on the desk. “So would you like to browse or would you like a tailor made ring?”

“Tailor made sounds good, how much would it cost?” Dave scratched his chin as he got into haggle mode. His preparation to bargain was shot down as Roush Cut shook his head

“So long as you let ponies know where you got it from then I will let you have it for free” Rough Cut chuckled at Dave’s confused face. “The royal wedding of Princess Celestia and Dave is sure to attract global attention”

Dave smirked, “You would make a bit of cash if everypony knew that royal rings are bought in this shop”

“Business is a trade that I have slaved over for many years” he tapped his nose as he winked at Dave. “I know how to make the most from a situation… but more importantly, what do you want me to make?”

“Oh right…” Dave hummed as he looked at the various jewels around the room, some attracted Fleur de Lis’ attention as she practically drooled at some of the various items. “Gold band with a gem, something precious”

Rough Cut sighed, “Really imaginative one you are” he groaned as he pushed away from the counter and shuffled through some draws. “I will have to spend a day or two getting some samples ready before we can move onto smaller details”

Dave tapped the counter with a quiet cheer, “Thanks, I’ll pop in some point and see how you are getting on”

Rough Cut grunted in response as Dave, Fancy Pants and a wining Fleur de Lis left the shop full of shining gems and precious metals. After a short pout, Fleur de Lis resumed leaning against her husband, his eyes rolled as he smiled at Dave

“Well I hope that your purchase will be well placed” The unicorn levitated a small pocket watch out of his coat and groaned. “I apologise for leaving but I have a dinner party to attend to”

Dave nodded with a wave as he started walking up the road towards the main street. “See you later, thanks for being a tour guide”

“Well I do try to be helpful” Fancy Pants tipped his head whist Fleur de Lis gave a small wave with one of her clean hooves. “We must converse at another dinner party” he called before walking away to talk with some other high-class ponies

Dave put his hands in his pockets as he walked up and down the streets, waving to a few ponies that smiled at him or called out to say hello. He began to quicken his pace as the attention kept growing and eventually led up to him having conversations with ponies that he did not even know

Meanwhile…

“Get a move on!” Battering Ram yelled at the racing wonderbolts, the crowd around him also yelled for their chosen racer to pull into the lead. Flux sat with her hooves crossed as she groaned, her eyes failing to avoid looking at somepony that was cheering

“And Fleetfoot wins again!” the commentator yelled and was greeted with a mix of happiness and despair

Battering Ram tore his ticket up as he threw the pieces into the air. Flux rolled her eyes as her large friend began grumbling quietly to himself

“It was only ten bits” The Pegasus rose her eyebrow as Battering Ram glared at her. “I don’t know why we came here, you always get moody when you lose”

Battering Ram stood, “Well I am going to get a drink and put another bet on,” the crowd behind Battering Ram groaned as their view of the racetrack was blocked

“Hey can ya get outta the way?” A unicorn called as he got another ticket ready. His arrogant glare was replaced with an apologetic smile as Battering Ram’s head slowly rotated to stare him down

Flux tapped the large earth pony to get his attention, “I’ll have half a cider and make sure you bet on Slipstream”

Battering Ram nodded before making his way up the steps and over to a small booth that was taking bets and selling a few bits of food and drink. Flux rubbed her eyes as the commentator began announcing the line-up for the next race and the crowd cheered after each name was announced

The hulking earth pony returned with a ticket and a large tray of snacks and two drinks. He sat down and passed the half full cup of cider over to his bored friend

“Cheer up, this is the last one then we can go” Battering Ram began chewing some snacks as the horn blew to signal the next race had began. His eyes followed the speeding blurs that overtook each other at every opportunity

“They reach the final corner!” The commentator leaned forwards as the crowd let out a final cheer. “And the winner is… Slipstream!”

Battering Ram cheered as he grabbed Flux in a large hug, laughing as he kissed the top of her head and ran off to collect his winnings. Flux sighed as she hurried after the excited earth pony and frowned as he was handed a pair of large bags of coins

“How much did you bet?” Flux growled as Battering Ram placed the heavy bags onto his large back

“Only fifty bits” he smiled, but his enthusiasm was slowly replaced with a concerned frown as Flux shook her head and began to storm for the exit. Battering Ram groaned as he had to jog to catch up with his friend

Flux weaved between the small groups that stood outside the entrance to the racetrack and began walking down the streets. Battering Ram’s huge size made ponies willingly move out of fear that they might be stood on

“What have I done now?” Battering Ram sighed as Flux glared at him

“If you had lost then we would have lost money that we can’t afford to lose” Flux growled as she turned to face her larger companion. “I am stressed enough as it is with dealing with Strong Shield, Dave and finding the key without you losing us money!”

Battering Ram stared at Flux’s furious glare, “I have never forced you to keep going, I said that I can deal with things if you want to leave and start a new life somewhere”

“I can’t leave!” Flux yelled, attracting stares from various ponies. “I destroyed everything I had because I believed that Puppetmaster had a plan to make everything better for everypony in Equestria”

“Well excuse me for trying to get us to relax!” Battering Ram responded with a growl, his eyes full of anger. “You were skipping meals, missing sleep, pushing yourself too hard, all because you are trying to speed up something that won’t move any faster”

The crowd had silenced as they watched the huge earth pony glaring at a seemingly insignificant Pegasus, they all resumed what they were doing when Battering Ram shot a glare at them

“Fine, I will relax” Flux held out her hoof, raising her eyebrow as Battering Ram took a step back. “Give me some bits, I am going out tonight”

Battering Ram nodded as he pulled a hoof full of bits out of his large bag of winnings and passed them to the lavender Pegasus. Flux nodded before wrapping a wing around the coins and trotting off up the street

Later…

Dave tapped his feet as he leaned against the castle walls, his gaze continuously switched from looking down the street to looking at the castle gate. His attention was finally turned to the gate opening and Shining Armour stepped out with a grin

“So Dave is taking us to a cool nightclub” Shining stepped aside as Strong Shield, Braeburn and Big Mac all stepped out after him and nodded to Dave

“Hello lads” Dave clapped his hands together as his group began to follow him down the road, the sun slowly descending below the horizon. “Alright, ground rules, Strong Shield doesn’t arrest anyone and Braeburn doesn’t go with any strange hookers”

“Now that was a misunderstanding!” Braeburn called from the back of the group, he pulled his stetson hat lower over his eyes as the group chuckled

Big Mac nudged his cousin, “Did ya misunderstand how her tongue works?” he laughed as Braeburn grumbled and made his way to the other side of the group

Dave and the gang of stallions reached Shade nightclub and made their way inside, the bouncer allowing them in as he noticed the human leading the group. They all smiled as they became immersed in the music and the beats that rippled through the floor

“Ok, I’m going to get in touch with the DJ and I will see about us getting into the VIP area” Dave clapped his hands as he looked for Vinyl Scratch

“I’m going to start drinking at the first opportunity, keep out of trouble with any drunks,” Shining laughed as he made his way to the dance floor and left the two farmers and ex-guard to stand awkwardly in the middle of the room

Strong Shield frowned slightly as a Pegasus looked at him from across the room. Braeburn noticed the strange exchange of looks before he smirked and leaned closer to the black unicorn

“Call me silly, but I think that you are being checked out” He nudged Strong Shield playfully as the unicorn rolled his head to glare at the farmer. “Go over and talk, who knows what might happen”

Strong Shield sighed as he walked over to the Pegasus and sat down next to her. “I wasn’t expecting to see you here”

Flux placed down her drink as she chewed the olive in her mouth. “Yeah well I am not exactly in the mood for games”

“Guilty conscious?” Strong Shield spat as Flux dropped her head into her hooves. The Pegasus turned to look at the unicorn with a slight sway of her mane

“I will have you know that we paid those mercenaries to damage the barracks, not to murder an innocent guard” Flux slouched back into her seat as Strong Shield pointed at her with an angry hoof

“Are you telling me that you hired mercenaries to do all the work?” Strong Shield groaned as Flux reluctantly nodded. “That explains some of the evidence I found” he rubbed his chin as he thought of some of the fur he found around the damaged barracks

Flux shrugged, “We weren’t planning to murder any of your precious guards until later, shame it happened this soon”

Strong Shield sniffed before narrowing his eyes at the Pegasus, “You’re drunk, aren’t you?”

“If I wasn’t five drinks ago then I am now” Flux stroked the table with her hoof as her wings twitched occasionally. Her eyes slowly rolled over to look at Dave that stood on the other side of the room, talking to the nightclub owner before a large grin grew on his face

Strong Shield saw Dave beckon for the other stallions to follow him into the VIP area, he slid off his chair to follow but sighed as he turned around. “Listen… if you intend to get drunk and possibly start a fight”

“What?” Flux spat as her head almost dropped to the table, her eyelids threatening to shut as the effects of the alcohol were becoming increasingly apparent

“Stay with me until we leave the club” Strong Shield groaned, “I would prefer to keep everything quiet and you beating up everyone here won’t help”

Flux smiled as she clambered off her chair and nuzzled gently against Strong Shield’s shoulder. “Aww, do you still care about me or about your reputation?”

Strong Shield rolled his eyes before he escorted the inebriated Pegasus into the VIP area and sat her down away from the others. Dave’s face dropped until Strong Shield placed a hoof over his lips, his eyes darting to the other ponies that made themselves comfortable on the white sofas

“So um… Vinyl said that we could help ourselves to her private bar,” Dave pointed to the large rows of shelves that were full of various drinks

“I’ll make us the drinks!” Flux called as she hopped over to the drinks, licking her lips before using her wings to pluck bottles from the shelves. Strong Shield rolled his eye as he went to help the more than tipsy Pegasus

Braeburn tapped Dave’s shoulder, “I never thought that your old man would find somepony… even if she is already drunk”

“I’ll admit that she must be of the older variety of mares but she has definitely kept her figure” Shining Armour shrugged, his hooves raised innocently as Dave glared at him. “Just saying,” he muttered

“He’s right” Big Mac nodded

“Whatever” Dave groaned as a drink was levitated into his hand. Flux and Strong Shield sat down and handed more drinks out to the others in the room. “Well lads, lets make tonight a night to remember”

Braeburn cheered, “Yeah and me and Big Mac will get free pickings of the mares!” the earth pony smirked as he pointed at Dave and Shining Armour. “Because you two are both in relationships with immensely powerful beings”

Big Mac chuckled, “And Strong Shield has his hooves full!”

Dave whistled, “Alright I get the point! Now let’s get drunk so time goes by faster and we end up having a good time”

The group all cheered before having their drinks, not wasting time to try and start having fun as they drank whatever was passed to them

Chapter 35

Braeburn groaned as he pushed himself up, his hat was missing and his vision was filled with a blinding light. His groan became a roar in his skull as his brain lurched painfully at every move he made

“G-guys?” the apple farmer moaned quietly, his hooves protected his fragile eyes from the dim sunlight that streamed in through the window. His eyes managed to adjust enough for him to make out a pair of bumps under a large bed sheet

Shining Armour lifted his head from one of the bumps and groaned in agony as his body was exposed to the waking world. “What the hay happened?” he whined as he held his tongue out of his mouth. “And something tastes really strange, almost… non-vegetable”

The other bump groaned as it sat up and was revealed to be Big Mac, his eyes bloodshot but he still had a strange, relieved smile. He looked at Braeburn before looking at the stallion next to him, his jaw dropped as he saw Shining’s disgusted face

“AAAAHHHH!”

…

Shining Armour finished brushing his teeth for the fifth time as he continued to whimper, his hooves constantly rubbing his face as he attempted to process the information. “Wha… how… why was I in bed with Big Mac?”

Braeburn found his hat and quickly placed it on his head, his waistcoat was still missing as he looked around the room they were in and risked looking out the window. “I think we should be asking why are we in Manehatten”

“WHAT!” Big Mac gasped as he rushed to the window and looked down at the busy streets below, city ponies carrying on with their day

“I-I cheated on my wife… with Big Mac?” Shining’s eyes searched the floor as he staggered out of the bathroom

Braeburn turned around and slapped Shining Armour before grabbing his tense shoulders. “We have no way of knowing, so assume that just fell asleep next to ya”

Shining slowly nodded his head, his tongue still found it’s way out of his mouth as he gagged again. “But what the hay did I eat then?”

Big Mac shrugged before looking around the penthouse suite they were in. The main room was a large, open area with soft seats and glass tables. A few varnished doors opened into large bedrooms and a bathroom with a hot tub.

Braeburn groaned as he searched for his waistcoat, finally finding it in front of the only closed door. “Hey, I think somepony is in this room”

Big Mac and Shining Armour both removed themselves from the window and silently opened the door, leaving enough space for them to peek in

Facing them was a sleeping pair of ponies, Flux being held by Strong Shield as they held each other softly. Strong Shield’s scarred eye was hidden in Flux’s messy mane, making him almost look happy

“Hang on,” Shining pulled his head away and looked quickly around the penthouse. “Where is Dave?”

Flux and Strong Shield both groaned as they woke up, their eyes scanned the room before they ended up looking at each other. Their reactions were hidden by their faces but not by their shocked eyes

“W-why am I in…” Flux was about to let a small smile crawl across her lips but she was prevented when she noticed the two earth ponies standing by the door

Strong Shield looked up at Big Mac and Braeburn with an unimpressed glare. His expression managing to hide the strange grin that wanted to leap to his face when he awoke

“Well this is strange” Braeburn commented before closing the door and dragging Big Mac away to search around the room. Flux groaned as she crawled out of bed and began using her hoof to flatten her mane

Strong Shield rubbed his eye before climbing out of bed and peeking out the bedroom door, making sure nopony was in earshot. “So… last night”

“Was clearly a mistake for you,” Flux hissed as she began stretching her wings. “I wasn’t drunk enough to forget what you had become”

“What I’ve become?” Strong Shield glared as he forced the door closed with a loud thud. “Excuse me, who was it that hired mercenaries to ransack the castle?”

Flux sneered at the comment before responding with one of her own. “And who was it that tried to drug a mare in a nightclub?” she snarled, “Some would see that as attempted rape”

“I was merely going to detain you in a prison cell,” Strong Shield responded, making sure he kept his serious face from showing his annoyance. “I assume Battering Ram will find out about this?”

“He would kill me, then you” Flux sighed as she looked in the mirror and saw the large bags under her eyes. “He always was the protective sort, making sure nopony got hurt”

Strong Shield snorted, “So are you both an item now?”

“No, he just doesn’t like the fact that I keep trying to reason with you,” Flux frowned before her eyes dropped to the floor. “He and I are friends, you were once his best friend and he would never touch the mare you love”

“You say love as if I still care about you,” The frowning unicorn glared as Flux waved away with a hoof

“If you didn’t then why are we talking rather than fighting?” Flux looked over her shoulder as she walked over to the bedroom window. “If you didn’t, then why did we spend the night together?”

Strong Shield shuffled uncomfortably from each hoof as he shot another glare at the Pegasus. “I assume you are keeping a close watch?”

Flux did not respond, instead she open the window and leapt out, spreading her wings as the morning sun warmed her body. The morning breeze began to fill the bedroom but was cut short as Strong Shield used his magic to slam the window closed

Strong Shield left the bedroom and was instantly standing in front of a shaking Braeburn. “No I am not going to describe what happened between me and that Pegasus,” Strong Shield groaned

“Daveismissingandwehavenomemoryofthepasttwodays” Braeburn said as fast as he could before sitting on the spot, panting as if he had just ran a marathon

“Slow down, deep breaths” Strong Shield rested his hoof on the pony’s shoulder. “Say it again”

“Dave is missing and we have no memory of the past two days” Braeburn sighed. His closing eyes shot open as Strong Shield yanked him upright and stared into his eyes

“WHAT?” He yelled as he saw a bead of sweat roll down the farmer’s face. “Did you say Dave is missing and we can’t remember the past two days?”

Big Mac placed a hoof on Strong Shield’s shoulder. “Eeyup”

…

Shining Armour, Braeburn, Strong Shield and Big Mac all sat around a table in one of the nearby cafés. They all had large coffees sat in front of them as they all looked down in despair

“We have been gone a whole weekend” Braeburn sighed in disbelief. “Nopony knows that we are here and we don’t know where Dave is”

Big Mac leaned forwards, his eyes holding onto a small fragment of hope. “Maybe he went back ta Canterlot”

“No, he was definitely with us until yesterday afternoon and the train for Canterlot was vandalized the other day by a bunch of partying stallions” Shining Armour groaned as the large red stallion sunk back into his seat

“Ah shoot” Braeburn pulled his hat down to cover his face. “Those vandals were us weren’t they?”

The group all exchanged glances before they groaned in unison, Big Mac taking a large drink from his coffee in an attempt to avoid eye contact with anypony

The black unicorn stood up and looked at the rest of the group. “Alright, if we find Dave then we can worry about everything else later because losing Dave would be the worst thing for us”

“I know, he was such a nice guy” Braeburn sniffed as he hung his head. “I couldn’t live with the guilt if he got hurt because of me”

“I though that you would have been more worried about the fact that Princess Celestia would probably kill us all, or send us to the moon” Strong Shield rose an eyebrow as Braeburn finally caught on

Shining Armour stamped his hooves as determination swept across his face. “We must find Dave and find out if I had an affair with Big Mac”

“Why is that important?” Big Mac groaned before looking away awkwardly, due to Shining’s disgusted look

“If we lose Dave, Celestia will kill us!” Shining nodded but his face became more panicked as he hid slowly beneath the table. “If I cheated on Cadence, she will make me infertile and then kill me”

Braeburn stood up, causing the table to shake as he cheered. “Alright! We will save Dave and Shining’s balls!”

The café waitress coughed to get Braeburn’s attention. “Will you please quieten down? This is a family area”

“Ah,” Braeburn apologized before herding the group outside and forming a small circle. They all focused on the matter at hoof as they tried to come up with a plan. Big Mac would occasionally point out flaws whilst Braeburn came up with ideas that were more radical than the last

Shining Armour tapped Strong Shield as they all paused to think. “Do you think I could use my shield spell to find where Dave is? He would resist the expansion of the bubble and we can track him from there!”

“What if he’s below ground? Or outside Manehatten?” Big Mac sighed as he brought Shining’s plan crashing down

Strong Shield tapped his chin with his hoof. “We might as well try, and at least we would remove a large area from our search”

Braeburn clapped his hooves together in an attempt to stay positive. “Alright, that is our Plan A”

“What’s gonna be our Plan B?” Big Mac frowned as Braeburn quickly stammered another response

“W-we get our flanks to Saddle Arabia and live in a cave” he smiled to keep his confident appearance going

Shining Armour held up his hoof, a new idea forming a wide smile on his face. “Wait… I have the perfect idea”

“What is it?” Strong Shield leaned closer to listen

“If I go hide in Saddle Arabia then Cadence won’t be able to emasculate me with her bare hooves!” Shining cheered quietly. “It is better safe than sorry. Running the risk of finding out if I did sleep with Big Mac is too great and takes up valuable fleeing time”

Strong Shield groaned, “Can we just find my son for now?” He snarled slightly, “Besides, we can find out if you slept with Big Mac later before you go steal a hot air balloon”

“But I need all the time I can get” Shining whimpered as if Cadence was already charging towards him. “If she hears a rumour then she might take my manly mark just to be sure”

“She won’t touch your cutie mark or your manly mark until she is sure you slept with Big Mac” Braeburn frowned at Shining’s strangely nervous attitude. “You are safe until you find out more”

Shining shook his head before he finally regained his smirk. “Alright, first we have to find Dave or any clues that might help us”

The group nodded before they began walking down the busy streets of Manehatten. Shining Armour would occasionally ask a passer-by for any info, but sighed when his questions turned up nothing. Braeburn kept pausing to eavesdrop on strangers whilst they gossiped.

Big Mac and Strong Shield both kept on eye out for any strange objects or ponies. They both continued to frown as their search found nothing as well. The group groaned as they stopped in a park to rest, Braeburn pulled his hat down to block the sun from his eyes

“I think we should try this magic spell before we go any further,” he groaned. “We are wasting time if he isn’t even in the city or lost underground”

A snapping twig made Strong Shield turn his head to look at a brown earth pony with a messy cyan mane. “So I heard you were missing something dear to you,” he smiled as he looked over the confused group. “I can inform you that there are some mystical sea-ponies that live in a small cave on the edge of Manehatten. Where the beach and the cliffs meet! They can use their spiritual magic to find your lost friend”

“Cheers mate!” Braeburn began pushing the group away but was stopped as the strange pony jumped into their way. “Can we help you?”

“That will be ten bits!” The pony held out his hoof as his cyan mane was continuously messed up by the wind and made him seem immature rather than threatening. “My trade is selling folklore and information”

“We didn’t ask, so we ain’t paying!” Big Mac growled as the pony shrugged

“Fine, then you technically shoplifted,” The weird pony smiled happily. “Now pay or you will be going strait to prison! You hear me? S-T-R-A-I-T to P-R-I-S-O-N!”

Shining Armour held up his hoof, “Isn’t straight spelt s-t-r-a-i-g-h-t?”

“Oh ho silly unicorn,” The pony scoffed as he pulled a dictionary out of his messy tail. He flicked though a few pages before slamming his hoof onto a page. “HA HA! Straight is spelt s-t-r-a-i-g-h-t! Victory is mine! Mine! MI… oh”

The pony looked at the book again before scowling at the group of bemused ponies. “You win this round” he glared as he crawled away and slid into a bush

“I’m scared” Big Mac gulped as he saw the cyan eyes watching him from the bushes. The group nodded as they quickly hurried away in search for the cave and the sea-ponies

Chapter 36

Braeburn poked his head into the cave entrance as the seawater began to splash around his hooves. He was encouraged to take another step in as Strong Shield jabbed him with his horn, the other ponies close behind

“This seems a bit strange,” Braeburn whispered as they followed the small water trail into the cave, the light slowly dwindling until they came across a large opening with glowing water gathered in the centre

“Who dares to enter the cave of the sea-ponies?” a echoing voice called as the water began to ripple outwards from the middle of the pool

Shining Armour stepped forwards as he proudly puffed out his chest. “Captain of Celestia’s royal guard, I am here to ask a few questions”

The water bulged as a streamlined pony head pierced the surface of the water and shot a glare at the group of land walkers. “So it appears that the defeated have returned for a rematch,” the stallion noted

“Rematch?” Big Mac shrugged to his friends before stepping closer to the pool. “Listen we were very drunk for the past two days”

“Silence you inferior beast!” the pony pulled his top section of body out of the water and began to flex his muscles for display. “I won the challenge you set me and I won my prize”

Strong Shield narrowed his eye as he coughed loudly. “What prize would that be?”

“The human called Dave,” the sea-pony’s body was a dull pink whilst in the dark but turned into a deep blue as the light from the pool shone against his smooth body

“Dave?” Braeburn gasped, leaping forwards as the sea-pony began to shake his blond mane around gracefully. “Can we see him?”

The sea-pony clapped his hooves together and Dave was thrown from the water and was caught by his watery host. “This is my prize, I won him in that eating competition with that white unicorn”

Shining Armour recoiled as everyponies eyes turned to look at him. “What? We were drunk and I have no idea what we were eating”

“We were eating salmon!” The sea-pony cheered as he dropped Dave’s limp body back into the water, allowing him to float around uselessly. “But the ground walker gave in as his distaste for fish beat his willpower”

Strangely, the sound of cheering began to fill the cave and caused Dave to bolt awake and begin rubbing his pained head. Shining danced as the audience around him winced at the high-pitched cheers

“It was fish!” Shining Armour kissed his hooves before throwing them into the air. “I didn’t sleep with Big Mac! Cadence won’t cripple me and we found Dave”

Strong Shield covered Shining’s mouth, making sure the younger unicorn had silenced before letting go. “But we still have to get Dave back from this sea-pony”

Dave groaned as he swam to the edge of the pool and rested his head on the dirty ground. “My head hurts… why am I in an underground pool?”

“I won you in that simple eating challenge last night!” the sea-pony beat his chest to show off his arrogance. “I will beat any challenge you set me and I will take another one of you as my prize”

Dave rolled onto his back as he pointed at the sea-pony. “So you can do anything?”

“Yes I can!” The sea-pony chuckled with a smug grin as he admired himself in the reflection of the pool. “Give me a challenge and I shall complete it within mere moments”

“Eat your own head” Dave groaned before climbing to his feet and groaning at his soaked clothes

“Certainly!” The sea-pony stopped as his nose was about to be grabbed by his bottom jaw. His sharper teeth certainly looked good for biting fish or tearing seaweed. “Hang on… eat my own head?”

Dave nodded, “Yeah or I am leaving because you failed the challenge”

The sea-pony hissed in annoyance as his hand rested on his chin. “My life is extremely valuable… but so is my pride”

The group came to a standstill as the sea-pony began to narrow his eyes at Dave. His low humming was joined by nervous breathing from Braeburn and Big Mac. Shining and Strong Shield exchanged curious glances at each other as they slowly began to lead the group towards the exit

Dave smirked as he pointed his finger at the sea-pony. “You won’t try will you?”

…

“Well that was the second weirdest experience of my life,” Dave sighed as he climbed out of the cave, his clothes slightly stained red

Big Mac hurried out as he hurried behind a rock and began to revisit his breakfast. “Eeyup, blugh!”

“Well sea-ponies are known for their fierce competition and love of challenges” Strong Shield shook his head and sent a tooth flying out from his mane

“I just can’t believe that I just witnessed a living thing try to eat its own head” Shining Armour sat down as Braeburn nodded in agreement

Dave shrugged, “Ah well, his fault for not quitting while he was ahead.” The ponies all sent glares at him until he realized the joke he made

Meanwhile…

Celestia hummed as she read the letter again. Her worries and suspicion continuously growing with every passing minute. The letter arrived the morning after Dave’s disappearance and made her almost explode with anger as the smell of alcohol coated the letter

The letter said that Dave was taking his friends for a weekend holiday and would be back as soon as he could. Her worries had been temporarily set aside as Cadence got a similar letter from Shining Armour

“I swear if he is anywhere near another mare I will… I will…” Celestia sighed as she dropped her head back into her pillow. Her bedroom was fully illuminated by the morning sun but she refused to move until her duty required so

She glanced at the small bag hidden beneath her bed, a piece of pink silk hung out the top as she blushed. “So much for a romantic evening,” she groaned as she dropped her head again, the pillow now had a large indent from where her head kept falling

“What did I do before I met Dave?” Celestia hummed as boredom seemed to find its way in again. “I suppose I could write a letter to Twilight Sparkle and see if she has been ok”

Celestia groaned as she saw the parchment and quill was on her desk. “It is so far away! I would have to get up or levitate it over to me!” she sighed in defeat as procrastination caused her to abandon any idea that required effort

The bedroom doors swung open as Nox charged in and began bouncing on the bed. “Can we go to Ponyville? Please, please, please!”

Celestia sat up and smiled at the grey colt, more out of relief that she now had something to do. “If you want to, but we must leave a note for your father if he returns home today”

“I thought daddy was only going to be away for the weekend,” Nox pouted as Celestia picked him up for a hug. The colt flapped his wings uselessly as his mothers long legs managed to hold him in place

“I’m sure he will be back before the end of the day,” Celestia smiled as she tapped Nox’s nose. “And I will have words with him, then some action, followed by words, maybe some more action if I still feel tense”

Nox backed away from the white princess. “What do you mean by ‘action’? Are you going to hit him?”

“No… of course not” Celestia smiled sweetly as she climbed out of bed and began placing on her golden regalia. She called for the guard and informed him that she was going to visit Ponyville and would be there most of the day

The princess of the sun stepped out onto the balcony and extended her large white wings as she prepared for flight, allowing Nox to take to the air before following close behind. The mother and son flew around the castle before gaining altitude and flying in the direction of Ponyville

“Where are we going first?” Nox called over the wind that rushed through his mane. Celestia hummed in thought as she allowed herself to glide freely

“We can go see Twilight Sparkle first” Celestia smiled as Nox nodded, a small frown crossing his face. “Is something wrong?”

The grey alicorn sighed as he drifted closer to his mother. “I was wondering if we would see Sweetie Belle at some point”

“Nox, you are young and you will have to be patient for the one you will truly love to appear,” Celestia smiled reassuringly. “They won’t fall out the sky and fall for you immediately”

“But dad fell out the sky and you both fell in love within weeks” Nox groaned as Celestia flew above him and nuzzled the top of his head. “I don’t know why you both got together so quickly”

Celestia lowered her eyes to look at the ground below, the town of Ponyville beginning to come into focus below the clouds. “Your father and I were a mistake originally, but his persistence to follow his heart meant that he followed me, even if I tried to push him away or tried to show no interest”

“So you are saying that I should just wait and follow my heart?” Nox arched his neck to look back at his mother as they both began to descend towards the library

Celestia smiled again as she began to gently slow herself down, flapping only when she was a few meters from the ground. “Just do what you feel is right and you will be fine”

The princess of the sun folded her wings against her back as she gently knocked on the door. The wooden door opened almost instantly as the purple unicorn was leaving the tree, her assistant dragon close behind her

“Princess Celestia?” Twilight gasped as a grin spread across her face. “What are you doing in Ponyville?”

Celestia nodded as Twilight and Spike quickly bowed. “My son and I were simply coming over to visit, seeing as it is a nice day”

Spike giggled, “Yeah, RD managed to schedule a sunny day for today’s picnic.” he covered his mouth with a claw as he released the secret

“The element of loyalty changed the weather schedule?” Celestia narrowed her eyes when she spotted the picnic basket in Spike’s claws. “Well I am afraid that I will have to speak with Rainbow Dash… so long as no cake happens to distract me” she winked at the purple dragon

Twilight’s smile grew larger, “Do you want to come to the picnic as well? I’m sure that my friends would love to speak with you as well!”

“That is what I was hinting at,” Celestia laughed as Twilight began to lead the way to the picnic area, staying close to her teacher’s side. Nox and Spike strolled together as they rolled their eyes at the mares leading the way

“Will it only be Twilight’s friends?” Nox asked curiously as Spike readjusted his grip on the picnic basket

“I think the Cutie Mark Crusaders might be there as well but… I have some rubies in here that I need to eat up” he licked his lips as he held the basket with a sense of longing

Nox hummed as they approached the lush green grass and shady trees that made up the girl’s picnic area. Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Applebloom were playing to the side, giggling happily until Applebloom saw Nox. The earth pony stopped running around and went to go sit behind a tree

Celestia began greeting the other ponies as she was offered a slice of cake. She ate the delicious treat gingerly until she managed to strike up a conversation with Fluttershy about the upcoming bird migration

Scootaloo walked over to the picnic to gather some food bits for her and her friends, she was only interrupted as Nox hopped over

“Hey Scootaloo, how are you?” Nox smiled until he noticed Scootaloo’s uncomfortable stare. “What’s wrong?”

The orange Pegasus looked over at her friends before sighing. “Listen, I am only going to be your friend, I can’t be your very special somepony because it may mean I lose one of my best friends”

“Huh?” Nox stammered as Scootaloo grabbed what other bits of food she could before dashing back to her friends. The grey colt shuddered as his ears drooped and he made his way back to his spot near Spike

The purple dragon noticed Nox’s sudden depression, so he finished chewing his ruby before placing a claw on his shoulder. “What’s up?”

“Nopony likes me” Nox muttered as he withheld a sniff. His bottom lip became stiff as he looked up to look at the Cutie Mark Crusaders. “They won’t even talk to me”

Spike frowned as he looked up at the fillies, his eyes moved back to look at Nox’s sad face that was on the verge of tears. “Nopony makes my friends sad” he growled as he stood up and marched over to the girls. “What did you say?” he growled

Sweetie Belle blinked in confusion before glancing at her friends. “What do you mean Spike? We haven’t done anything”

“You have all been doing something to Nox!” Spike snarled as the fillies looked at him in confusion. “He is really upset because you are all avoiding him!”

Scootaloo sighed sadly, “Applebloom likes him”

“That’s not a… wait really?” Spike dropped his claws as Applebloom’s face turned a deep red. “B-but why are you all avoiding him?”

Applebloom rubbed her hooves together as she let out a sigh. “When Nox asked Sweetie Belle to be his marefriend… I got jealous and almost lost my only friends”

“We aren’t going to risk losing each other again,” Scootaloo nodded, “Sweetie Belle and I aren’t nearly as taken to Nox as Applebloom is”

Sweetie Belle nodded, “Yeah, we just want to be friends but Nox might want to ask one of us out again!” the white unicorn whispered with a sense of dread

“But he can’t ask any of you out if you all avoid him!” Spike groaned, until he pointed at Applebloom. “If you like him, go talk to him”

Applebloom blushed heavily before seeing the seriousness in Spike’s eyes, finally giving a small nod before standing. “Neither of you would mind if he asked me out would you?” she winced as her friends looked at her

“I would be happy for you1” Scootaloo smiled

Sweetie Belle nodded as she picked up a fritter, “I agree!”

Applebloom nodded with added determination as she walked over to Nox and sat next to him. “Hey Nox,” Applebloom’s smile faded as she saw Nox’s lip begin to quiver, “What’s wrong?”

“You were told to come over here weren’t you?” The grey colt dropped his head, the sounds of Pinkie’s laughing seemed quieter as Applebloom lost her smile

Applebloom shook her head, “I came over because I wanted to talk to you!” she pouted to add force to her statement

“You keep coming to me a lot, like when we were in school and you offered to work with me… the teacher obviously told you to be nice” Nox sighed, his eyes followed a ladybird that sat on a blade of grass before flying away

“To be honest, I was kind because I kinda… liked ya” Applebloom blushed as she finally admitted it. “I kept it quiet because I knew how impossible it would be, an alicorn going with an earth pony”

Nox’s ears perked up, “So when you ran that one time… it was because I asked Sweetie Belle to be my very special somepony?”

“Yeah,” Applebloom smiled slightly, “I can see why ya liked her, and she is very pretty”

Nox smiled slightly, “I didn't like her because of that. I liked her because she was kind when I first met her”

“Sweetie Belle is always nice to ponies she meets,” Applebloom looked down at her hooves, “I tried to be extra nice because I was trying to get your attention… I couldn't do much because I don‘t have wings or magic”

Nox tilted his head to look at Applebloom’s hooves before he placed one of hooves in the space between him and Applebloom. “You’re nice without those things… that’s why I… kinda like you”

Applebloom placed her hoof against Nox’s, smiling slightly as they both shuffled to sit closer. “Do ya mind being seen with an earth pony?”

Nox smiled as he began blushing as well, “I would love to be seen with you”

Chapter 37

Celestia continued to enjoy the picnic with the elements of harmony, laughing as Rainbow Dash kept telling jokes every time the conversations began to dwindle. Spike was talking to Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle whilst Nox and Applebloom sat together behind a tree

“So do ya really mean that?” Applebloom smiled as Nox nervously tapped his hooves together. The earth pony rested against the alicorn as the sun began to descend

“W-well yeah, I mean we both like each other” Nox gave a reassuring smile, his face burned red as Applebloom rubbed her face under his chin

The yellow filly giggled as Nox struggled to act casual, “But wouldn’t ya like it if we kept this secret?” Applebloom turned away slightly as her hooves felt for the bow in her mane. “I ain’t special in anyway, it might make ya look bad”

Nox wrapped his wing around Applebloom as he pulled her closer again, a small blush still spread across his face. “You might not look special to anypony else but to me you are the most precious pony I have met”

Applebloom blushed before leaning forwards and kissing Nox’s cheek, causing him to blush even redder and pass out from shock. The filly giggled at the colt until she realized he was not playing and had actually fainted

The ponies all began to pack their food away and gather the children up as they yawned from the day’s events. Nox managed to recover before Celestia calmly walked over and knocked the tree politely to gain the attention of Nox and Applebloom

“Come on Nox, we had better get going if we want to get back to Canterlot in time for dinner” The princess looked down at the cuddling pair as her eyes opened dramatically. “But if you want to wait a few minutes then that is fine with me”

Celestia quietly retreated as Nox and Applebloom laughed briefly until Nox broke the growing silence. “I might not see you for a while… I kinda don’t want to leave you”

“I know what ya mean,” Applebloom sighed sadly. “I would have liked to have spent a bit more time with you”

Nox scratched his chin, humming as Applebloom rested her head against him. “Well I could see if my mom will let you come with us… but I doubt I would be allowed”

“Well… why don’t ya stay at my family’s farm tonight?” Applebloom looked up hopefully as Nox nodded in agreement. “Granny Smith made a pie that will be too much for just me an the rest of my family ta eat alone”

The grey colt stood up in determination as he followed the earth pony over to Celestia and Applejack. Applebloom smiled sweetly as she neared the pair, “Is it ok if I can have somepony sleep over?”

Applejack smiled in response as she placed a hoof around her sister. “Sure ya can, is it Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo or both?”

Applebloom gave Nox one final smile before looking back up at her smiling sister. “I was wondering if Nox could stay over”

Applejack’s relaxed posture suddenly tensed up as she bowed in front of Celestia. “W-well it would be fine with me as long as your majesty has no objections”

“Of course not!” Celestia smiled as a sly smirk suddenly spread across her face. “It would give me some time alone with Dave when he returns”

Applebloom and Nox smiled happily as they moved back to each other’s side. Applebloom nuzzled against Nox’s crimson cheek as she sighed happily. “I can’t wait til Granny Smith meets my very special somepony!”

“That sure does sound lovely Applebloo…” Applejack stopped mid-sentence as her eyes slowly moved to look at her little sister. Her eyes darted between the filly and colt as her jaw dropped and she turned to Celestia

All the other girls also had shocked expressions until they changed to various smiles. Pinkie’s smile was clearly larger than everypony else’s as she began to plan a party. Spike exchanged glances with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo before lookin at Celestia to listen for her response

Celestia looked around and saw that all eyes had turned to her, the hopeful grins made her roll her eyes as she looked down at Applebloom. “If Nox give you any trouble, don’t hesitate to tell me” she winked as she took flight into the air and left Nox with Applebloom

…

Applejack pushed open the door to the house as she stepped in and began to look for Granny Smith, her two followers closed the door as they walked into the living room. Applebloom sat on the sofa and watched Nox observe his surroundings

The living room was large and had an apple green sofa along the far wall, a wooden rocking chair beside it. The curtains were closed so no moonlight shone in through the windows, only the lamps on the walls filled the room with light

Applebloom rested her head on Nox’s shoulder as she clutched one of his hooves. “So do ya like my home?”

“Yeah!” Nox smiled with enthusiasm as he nuzzled Applebloom’s head. “I can’t believe how big the farm is!”

“Well I usually help my sister and brother during my days off school” Applebloom sighed as she rested her eyes

Applejack stormed back into the room with a slightly annoyed frown. “Nox, would you like some apple pie?”

“Yes please” He smiled until Applejack’s flustered attitude got his attention. “Is something wrong?”

“Mah big dumb brother finally showed up” Applejack groaned as Big Mac walked into the room, his eyes looked tired as a frail old mare followed him in and continued to mutter in annoyance. “Nox, this is Granny Smith”

Nox walked over to the old pony and smiled as nicely as he could. “It is nice to meet you Granny Smith” he stared curiously as Granny Smith leaned closer and began poking him in random places

“Oh he is one of them royal types!” Granny Smith sighed heavily as she sat down in her rocking chair. “Forgive me if I can’t bow like a spring chicken any more”

Nox chuckled, “I don’t expect any royal treatment or anything special” He nervously shuffled his hooves, “Actually I have asked Applebloom to be my very special somepony”

“Oh?” Granny Smith lowered her gaze to the colt. “Well if ya try any hanky panky with my granddaughter I will leave ya more broken than an apple with worms!” she glared menacing at the alicorn

Applejack placed a hoof over her mouth as Big Mac groaned, “Trust Dave’s kid ta get into trouble”

Nox walked back over to Applebloom and held her hoof as he looked back at the elderly mare. “I intend to make Applebloom happy and I will never do anything to hurt her or her family”

Granny Smith glared before breaking out into a raspy laugh, her rocking chair sprung to life with every chuckle. “Good! It’s about time somepony in this family is managing to grab somepony nice”

Applebloom blushed as Nox sat next to her, making sure she managed to get a good grip on his hoof again before resting her head in its usual spot

Meanwhile…

Dave, Shining Armour and Strong Shield all got off the train as it rolled into Canterlot train station. The captain of the guard said his goodbyes before walking back to his home and his inevitable encounter with his wife

“So what was this I heard about you hitting it off with a Pegasus?” Dave smirked as he placed his hands in his trenchcoat pockets

Strong Shield rolled his eye, “We were all drugged and I may have accidentally slept with Flux,” he grumbled as Dave swapped between happy and confused

“I thought you hated her and the big fellow?” Dave slowed his pace as Strong Shield paused to yawn

“I don’t hate them, I just hate the ideals they follow, chasing after a dead ponies failed science project,” The black unicorn shook his head. “Martial law is not the same as peace”

Dave shrugged in agreement, “I am not really sure what happened all those years ago, but I know that it changed you”

“Yeah, I used to be a lot more open and caring,” Strong Shield closed his eye for a brief moment before opening it to look up at Dave. “Flux, Battering Ram and I were all chosen because we were supposed to have a range of skills that would have allowed us to complete objectives easily”

“What kind of places did you all come from?” Dave asked as they began walking towards the castle. The few lights in the castle were a welcoming sight for Dave and Strong Shield

“Well I did the odd jobs that nopony else did, tried to be a good citizen of Equestria,” he sighed as he looked at his hooves. “Battering Ram was a farmer that came into the city to take part in underground, bare-hoof boxing, which he always won”

Dave chuckled, “When he is twice the size of your enemy then I suppose he has an advantage,” Dave’s laugh was wasted as Strong Shield continued to stare at the floor

“Flux was a pickpocket and thief,” He groaned, “She was orphaned from birth and always depended on herself”

“I thought you were an orphan as well?” Dave raised an eyebrow as he stepped into the castle courtyard

Strong Shield nodded, “But I was almost a teenager by the time I saw my father die”

Dave and Strong Shield remained silent until they were inside the castle halls before saying their farewells and walking in opposite directions towards their respective bedrooms. Dave had to drag himself up the long stairs as he made his way towards Celestia’s quarters

Dave hesitated going inside as he noticed the guards outside were relaxing with newspapers and their ears had yellow earplugs firmly equipped. The hesitant human nodded to them before creeping into the room and closing the door behind him

Dave closed the door gently before turning around and freezing on the spot. The room was filled with lit candles that made a large ring around the bed. Celestia was reclining across the bed, her mane wet as she held a rose between her teeth

The white alicorn levitated the rose out of her mouth as she smiled seductively. “So my brave adventurer has returned from his quest?”

Dave’s mind went into autopilot as he began walking towards the alicorn. “Yes milady, I hath slain the foul beast and have returned to your service”

Celestia smirked as she rolled to the edge of the bed, her wet mane clung to her body and enhanced her curves. “But a true princess must reward her knight properly”

Dave smiled, “That is true but I think that…”

“Shut up and get on the bed” Celestia glared, “I have been worried sick and have not had any decent physical contact with you for a while!” She narrowed her eyes until Dave nervously sat down and began undressing. “Now make sure you do your best and I might overlook the fact you disappeared for no reason again”

Dave sighed, “Listen I’m sorry about that, I promise I will…” he held Celestia’s hoof gently as he smiled

“Did I say stop?” Celestia licked her lips in anticipation as Dave finally removed his shirt

“This is almost rape”

“It’s your duty to make me happy" The white alicorn rose an eyebrow as Dave shrugged

"Well couldn't I bake you a cake?"

Celestia tapped her chin, "You can do that later"

Chapter 38

Applebloom groaned as she awoke, the soft sound of her bedroom door closing made her look up and around at the room. Her room had just recently been tidied so it was in a better state than usual, but the homework piled on the desk and the checklists for the Cutie Mark Crusaders were pinned to the walls

The earth pony rubbed her eyes as she looked to where her special somepony should have been sleeping. She heard her front door creak open before closing gently, causing Applebloom to rush to her window and peek out

Nox stepped into view before he looked around with a determined face, his eyes scanned the trees before he began to walk in a random direction. Applebloom quietly left her bedroom and her house as she pursued the alicorn

“Nox wait!” Applebloom called as soon as she was sure nopony else could hear her. Nox spun around before a concerned look shot across his face

“Applebloom, why are you out here?” The colt stepped forwards as Applebloom looked up at the full moon

The filly rubbed her tired eyes as she looked back at Nox. “I woke up and saw ya leaving”

Nox nervously looked down at his hooves, “I don’t sleep much and I heard that my dad landed somewhere here when he first came to Equestria”

“Oh I know what ya mean” Applebloom smiled as she began to lead Nox past the apple trees. “We can go back in the morning if ya want”

“I would like to go now… if that ok” He smiled as Applebloom smiled happily and began to walk alongside him. Nox noticed Applebloom shiver in the cold air, forcing herself to look fine until she sneezed

Nox wrapped one of his wings around Applebloom as they walked, his body sharing heat with her. The earth pony hummed happily as they walked along together, stopping as they reached a small hill that was clear of trees

Applebloom looked around until she pointed at the stump of a tree that had been knocked down months ago. “This is the tree your dad hit when he fell from the sky,” Applebloom walked closer as Nox gazed at the tree

“So this is where my dad first arrived,” Nox whispered in a surprised tone. “I thought he would have left something more noticeable”

Applebloom gasped as a loud howl filled the air, “W-we had better go back now, I forgot that it was a full moon”

“What happens on full moons?” Nox asked curiously as Applebloom began to panic and tug at his neck. “What’s wrong?”

“On full moons the timber wolves sometimes come into the farm to collect apple tree bark for their bodies.” Applebloom began to hop on the spot, “We need to go”

Nox gulped as he hurried after Applebloom and began to run for the safety of the farmhouse. However, as they were still running through the trees, the sound of a twig snapping made them freeze. A pair of dark, amber eyes floated out of the shadows as the timber wolf’s wooden body revealed itself

A wave of putrid breath struck the nostrils of the children as they began to run away, screaming as the wolf gave chase. Applebloom galloped as fast as she could, Nox staying close beside her as they heard the wolf hunting them down

“I’m sorry Nox!” Applebloom cried as tears began to form in her eyes, “I should have remembered about the wolves”

“No, I wanted to go out at night, it’s my fault!” Nox replied, his eyes looked down before a glare crossed his face. “But I won’t let you get harmed because of me!”

Nox stopped, turning to face the timber wolf. The colt pushed all his fears aside as he glared at the approaching wolf. The predator began to charge towards the easy prey, his eyes narrowed on his target. Applebloom stopped and turned, gasping as the wolf lunged at Nox

“GO AWAY!” Nox yelled as his horn glowed, a beam of light streamed out of his horn and stopped a few feet in the air. The air tore open as a swirling black hole began to suck everything towards it, the wolf being the first to be pulled into the abyss

Fallen leaves swirled around the edge of the destructive hole before falling into the endless pit. The trees began to lean towards the hole as it continued to suck everything in and devour it. Its hunger was not satisfied as loose apples soon succumbed to the depths of nothingness

Nox let out a loud gasp as his horn returned to normal and the black hole disappeared, leaving a small hole in the ground where the dirt had been pulled up. The young prince staggered as he sat down and held his head, Applebloom quickly rushed to his side

“Y-you saved me,” the earth pony smiled as Nox managed to recover and look at her

The grey colt smiled, “Of course!” he exclaimed, his hooves keeping himself steady as Applebloom grasped him in a tight hug

Applebloom released Nox before giving him a quick kiss that caused him to instantly blush. “You are my hero Nox!” Applebloom smiled as she hugged Nox and was wrapped in his hooves

“I wouldn’t dream of being anything less than good enough for you,” Nox whispered as he placed his head on top of Applebloom’s soft mane. “And I will never let anything hurt you”

Meanwhile…

Celestia let out a brief snore as she rolled onto her back, her mane was ruined again from all the sweat that caused it to form into mats and knots. Dave’s eye popped open as the princess’ noise made him shoot out of his slumber

The human rubbed the red patch on his neck where Celestia decided to bite during their passionate moments together. Dave did not mind the pain, he shrugged it off, as it no longer served as a warning for danger to his life. Odio’s gift in making him immortal and still managing to keep his other skills was still amazing in his eyes

Dave sat up in the bed and ran his fingers through his hair, grumbling as he wiped the alicorn’s saliva from his ear lobe. He stretched his neck as he looked around the dark room, the candles had died or the gust of wind Celestia caused at one point had blown them out

Dave shuddered from a sudden chill he got down his spine, causing him to frown as the room was warm enough that he was happy sleeping without a lot of the bed covers. His eyes instinctively moved to the window where he saw Flux’s face staring at him

As Dave blinked, the head disappeared with no trace that it was even there. Dave shook his head as he rubbed his eyes, “I’m going crazy,” he sighed as the call of nature made him go to the bathroom

Once he had finished using the toilet, Dave washed his hands in the pure white sink, his eyes wandered to the golden hairbrush beside the basin. The bristles looked clean even though Celestia brushed her mane very thoroughly each morning. The handle of the brush ended up in a sharp point that captured Dave’s attention

He picked up the brush a he normally would and twirled it around his finger so he held the sharp point facing towards his other hand. With a deep breath, Dave plunged the point into his hand and winced as the drops of blood inevitably ran down his hand and dripped into the sink, getting swept up in the rushing water from the elegant taps

Dave washed the brush and replaced it as he looked at the neat gash in his hand. His eyes studied the wound as it slowly pulled itself together and left no evidence it ever existed. Dave shook his head as he looked at himself in the mirror

His hair was messy from all the recent activities and his body was still covered in a tiny layer of sweat. His body looked slightly more toned than when he first came to Equestria, his small areas of fat disappeared, probably due to his lack of eating. But the thing that caught his attention most was his eyes, they were once a sapphire blue that was one of his more noticeable features but now they had withered into a duller, darker blue that seemed less noticeable than before

“I guess a lot has changed since Earth,” Dave groaned before rubbing his eyes. “Why do I still talk like I can pop back whenever I want?” he mumbled as he walked back into the bedroom and sat down, facing away from the other occupant of the bed

Celestia opened her eyes and saw Dave with his head hung low and his fingers grasping the back of his head. The white alicorn sat up and draped her hooves over Dave’s shoulders and held her body against his back, feeling the cold skin against her warm fur

“I would have thought you would be worn out from our reunion,” Celestia smiled as she kissed Dave’s neck. She rested her head next to Dave’s as he sat up straight again

Dave looked at his naked body as he took in the warmth from Celestia’s body. “I was gone for two days, for no good reason and I return to receive free sex,” Dave stared at the floor as he felt Celestia shuffle uncomfortably, “why didn’t you scold me or get angry?”

“I love you and I know you always try your hardest to make everyone happy,” Celestia’s smile faded as Dave’s head drooped again. “What’s wrong?”

“When I lived on Earth I used to fantasize about silly things like adventure and romance,” Dave closed his eyes as he felt Celestia hold him tighter. “I used to wonder how I could do everything within the short life I had, deciding if I should look for the right love early or experience all of the world’s different places”

Celestia sat in silence as Dave took a moment to rub his eyes and look out the window. The princess of the sun rested her ear against Dave’s back, listening to his slow and pounding heartbeat

“But coming here I got all of that within a few weeks,” Dave clenched his fist and relaxed it as he placed his hand on Celestia’s hoof. “But now I have a son, get into trouble almost every day and have the very image of perfection as my true love… but I am petrified”

“Why?” Celestia lifted her head as she saw Dave break down and tears began to flow from his eyes as if all his emotion suddenly escaped in one final push. Celestia released Dave as she hurried to sit next to him and wrap her hooves around him as he grasped her in a weak embrace

“I-I am scared that I might lose you,” Dave whimpered, his happy attitude completely gone as he sobbed. “I can’t handle this anymore, the fact everyday might bring something that would tear us apart”

Celestia searched for the right words to say that might reassure Dave, ease his burden and let him know everything was going to be perfect. But as the words failed to find her, Celestia’s eyes eventually began to water as well. Dave’s eyes opened for a brief moment, snatching glances of Battering Ram standing in the mirror, his empty and remorseless eyes staring at him

“I’m scared too,” Celestia sighed, her voice wavering as she held Dave for her own reassurance more than Dave’s. “I am scared that someone will try to pull us apart, but I know that they won’t succeed”

Dave stopped sniffling long enough to pull his head back and look at Celestia’s face. The princess’ eyes were full of happiness but the tears that ran down made her eyes sparkle as the moonlight reflected from them. Her smile was so sincere and determined to stay showing that she allowed herself to sob even as she had it on her face

Dave placed his hand on Celestia’s cheek as he wiped away her tears. “But how can you be sure? How can you know that something won’t be stronger than us?”

“Because you beat death to make sure you saw your son be born,” Celestia rubbed her face against Dave’s hand as he looked down in guilt, knowing he made the love of his life cry for no reason. “But I know that we will be together forever, until the end of time”

Dave sighed as he looked up again. “But what if…” he was cut off as Celestia pressed her hoof against his lips

“If something happened that forced the two of us apart,” Celestia closed her eyes as she rested her horn against Dave’s head. “I know you would tear the fabric of existence apart to be with me again”

“Celestia I…” Dave allowed his eyes to fall shut as Celestia pressed her lips against his. Her mouth rested against his, their tongues stayed behind their own teeth as the kiss was full of love rather than consumed with lust

Celestia gently pulled away, still sharing her breaths with Dave. “I am just happy to know that you have more feelings behind that cheerful and determined man that you normally show”

“And I am happy to know that the mare I love can be so faithful and trusting,” Dave opened his eyes as Celestia pulled her head back and her horn began to glow. “What are you doing?”

“I have been learning a spell that will allow me to be a human for a short while,” Celestia frowned as she concentrated. She gasped as Dave placed a hand on her chin and another on her horn, preventing her from casting her spell

“You shouldn't mess with perfection,” Dave smiled as Celestia’ shocked expression returned to her tear-filled grin. “We are who we are, and we love each other because of it”

Chapter 39

Dave yawned as his pancakes were placed in front of him along with a large mug of coffee. Celestia thanked the servants as she began to eat her breakfast

“Didn’t you get much sleep darling?” Celestia asked as Dave used his fork to poke his pancakes, not being able to find the energy to actually eat anything

“Nah, every time I managed to doze off I just woke up again,” Dave put down his fork as he rubbed his temples

Eventually Dave’s sleepy eyes opened and he forced himself to drink some of his coffee and start making his way through his pancakes. Celestia watched him until his discomfort seemed to fade

“Well tonight you can go to bed early,” the princess commanded as Dave began to smirk like usual. “You have been over doing it recently and you are going to do yourself an injury”

Dave shrugged, “And? It isn’t like I can die or anything”

“I mean mentally,” Celestia sighed as she looked down at the sliced banana on her plate. “Years ago, I was going through a depressed stage and it made me do some foolish things,” the alicorn looked up at Dave with a frown. “Just because you aren’t harmed, it doesn’t mean it won’t hurt others”

“Sorry, I know that I haven’t been consistent with spending time with you and Nox.” Dave sighed as he rubbed his eyes. “I promise that I will try to spend more time here rather than getting into trouble”

A servant mare stepped into the room, her yellow mane tied behind her ears. “Excuse me your majesty but the captain of the guard wishes to speak with you in the barracks”

Celestia thanked the servant before standing up, “I will be expecting to see you at dinner today, and if not then I will hunt for you personally”

“Love you too” Dave smiled as he received a kiss from Celestia on her way past. She gave him one final smile before disappearing from the room and heading towards the barracks

Dave finished off his breakfast before leaving the room and heading down the corridors. His head throbbed again, causing him to stagger against a wall until the pain subsided. He looked along the clean corridor before heading for the nearest set of steps and making his way to the guest bedrooms

He managed to make it outside one of the guest rooms as he walked in, not bothering to knock. “Hey Odio, I need you to…” Dave cocked his head as Odio was still frozen in midair. “Have you been like that all weekend?”

“Well after you did make me fairly happy,” Odio resumed flowing normally. “It isn’t everyday I can do something mean”

“You are always doing something mean,” Dave frowned before the sudden wave of pain made him sit on the bed

Odio’s smile disintegrated as Dave groaned, “What the hell is up with you?”

“I have been getting these headaches, not to mention seeing stuff,” Dave cracked open an eye to look at Odio. “You’re the closest to a brain surgeon I know so can you take a look?”

The black fog moved to support Dave in his seated position as Odio’s red eyes moved to the back of Dave’s head. A small tendril slipped into Dave’s ear as the human groaned uncomfortably, the uncomfortable silence was broken by Odio whistling

“Well this won’t do,” Odio glared as a bolt of red raced down the tendril and Dave squirmed from the feeling in his head. After a few seconds of writhing, Dave heaved forwards and gagged, covering his mouth with his hands as something spongy was forced out and into his waiting palms

Dave looked at the grey and black blob in his hands, its broad edges were slightly burn from the short operation Odio performed. They both sneered at the blob as Dave’s headache was replaced with a rush of energy

“What the hell is this?” Dave gasped as the blob wobbled in his shaking hands. The fog of hatred hummed as he began to float around the room

“Ok I’ll let you down gently… you know that tumour in your hands?” Odio recoiled as Dave dropped the blob with a splat. “Ok I guess that was a bit of a shock”

“A TUMOUR?” Dave gasped as he grabbed his head again. “I thought I was supposed to heal!”

Odio swept the blob of brain matter up and dropped it into the bin. “Tumours are growths so there was nothing to heal, your head just kept itself together during the build up of pressure”

“That explains the headaches and probably the delusions, but how the hell did I get a tumour anyway?” Dave panted as the shock was slowly being subdued by curiosity

“It is most likely due to emotional stress or repetitive injury to the head,” Odio smirked as Dave rubbed his sore ear. “But in your case, both are major suspects”

Dave gave a sarcastic smile, “Thanks mate, cheers for the reassurance”

“No problem,” Odio laughed. “But if you suspect you have another problem then come straight to me and I will sort you out”

Dave sighed before nodding, “Ok, thanks for helping me out, I think Celestia was starting to get really worried,” he stood and left the bedroom, waving over his shoulder

“Anytime!” Odio cheered before following Dave into the castle corridor. “What? You owe me some time with you after I saved your life”

“Fine,” Dave groaned, covering up the fact he was slightly excited to spend time with his friend again. “But no wacky adventure or street fight, got it?”

Odio formed two hands with his fog and held them up innocently, “Whoa, calm down there buddy, I was going to suggest donuts and going to see your dear old dad”

“Ah crap, I almost forgot that I needed to see him before we go to Tartarus,” Dave scratched the back of his head as Odio flew into his way

“Tartarus?” Odio groaned. “I should have known that I would have to come along for something like that”

Dave placed his hands in his pockets as he walked down the corridor. “Anyway my dad is supposed to give me something before we go into Tartarus”

“Wait one second,” Odio floated beside Dave’s head as they walked. “Go in Tartarus? I know you are mad but that is just insane! Only if you were super powerful should you even risk going in…” Odio narrowed his eyes at Dave’s cheeky grin. “That’s why I’m coming along isn’t it?”

“Basically,” Dave laughed as Odio grumbled quietly, the black fog moving to the ceiling so he did not get in the way any of the passing guards or servant’s way

The fog dropped a few feet to talk down at Dave’s head. “I don’t see how something could go inside Tartarus and expect to survive long enough to be retrieved later”

“Do you know what Tartarus is like? My dad said that it is supposed to be stretched across multiple dimensions or something” Dave arched his neck to look up at Odio

“I haven’t got a clue” Odio confessed, his burning red eyes almost fading as he slowly rolled around, causing Dave to cough as some of the putrid black mist floated up his nose

Dave waved his hand past his face so the thick fog was cleared from his vision. The essence of hatred continued unfazed as the pair strolled into the barracks, earning mixed glares. Welcoming nods to Dave and suspicious stares at Odio

Odio smiled as the glares were instantly ignored and his attention was turned to the human as he walked down the corridor that led to the sleeping quarters. Dave walked to the end of the corridor, where the light dimmed slightly and the smooth stone began to crack

Dave stopped at the entrance to the old recruit quarters and knocked loudly, leaning closer to the door as he heard the short sound of the stone entrance returning to normal. The door lock released as Strong Shield opened it enough to peek out

“Oh, hello Dave,” Strong Shield allowed Dave to enter but stood in Odio’s way. “Sorry but the less that know will be better for all of us”

“B-but I wanna be involved,” Odio pouted as Strong Shield slammed the door. “Yeah fine! I’ll be out here in the cold!”

Strong Shield snorted before locking to door, “Good!”

Dave stood aside as Strong Shield opened up the secret entrance to his base of operations. They both stepped down into the main room as the lava began to light the room with a warm glow. Strong Shield walked back over to his desk as he forced down a gulp of brandy

“Umm, why are you drinking?” Dave looked around the desk and saw an empty bottle of brandy sat beside the unicorn’s hoof

“Just come with me,” Strong Shield slightly staggered into one of the nearby rooms and was quickly joined by Dave. The human looked around the pure white room, the floor was only decorated by a long silver table and only a few bits of surgical equipment

Dave hummed as he was passed a scalpel, “What the hell am I going to do with this?”

“Incision from the top of the scar to the bottom, the key is somewhere inside,” Strong Shield grunted as he climbed onto the table and laid down so his scared eye was next to Dave

“WHOA! I am not going to cut your face up!” Dave dropped the scalpel, “I am not some hoodie from the east side”

“I trust you with my burden,” Strong Shield glared at Dave with his good eye. “Listen, it is like opening a bag and pulling out a coin”

Dave sighed as he picked up the scalpel and held it nervously, “I suppose that every time you said ‘I have my eye on it’ you were being serious”

“Yeah, it turns out that having my eye cut out gave me the perfect spot to hide the key to the vault,” Strong Shield groaned as Dave slowly began to cut along his scar

Dave had to stop for a minute as a drop of blood began to flow from the scar. “Argh this is really getting a bit strange”

“Listen Dave, I know I don’t say this enough but…” Strong Shield raised his hoof to tap Dave’s shoulder. “I am very proud of you for doing this”

Dave sighed as he began to continue his small operation. “I know you are… but you wouldn’t say it if you were sober”

“True, emotion is a weakness in battle,” Strong Shield groaned, stopping as Dave grabbed his head to stop him moving as Dave dropped the scalpel and picked up the tweezers. “It should be in the entrance to the eye socket”

Dave used his finger and thumb to open the wound slightly as he began to feel around the inside of Strong Shield’s head with the tweezers. “Is this the key?”

“No, that… is the back of my eye socket” Strong Shield’s other eye twitched as Dave began to move to the sides of the socket

Dave smiled as he tapped something hard with the end of the tweezers, “Alright I think I have it!” Dave grabbed the object and Strong Shield failed to respond with a twitch or a grumble

Dave slowly pulled the object out and saw the tip of a golden point. As Dave pulled the object out fully, he dropped the small medallion into his hand. Strong Shield sat up and used his magic to wrap a bandage around his head and cover his cut eye

“That is the key, time for you to swallow it” Strong Shield looked down at the object that had been lodged in his eye for thirty years

The vault key was hardly smooth in anyway, sharp points poked out from the circular body and made it look like a flat beetle. The circle contained a cube that was a web of gold wires and small gaps that was perfectly symmetrical on each quarter of the key

“I am not swallowing this!” Dave held it up with his fingers. “It is the size of a digestive biscuit and is like a fucking buzz saw!

Strong Shield sighed as he took the key from Dave and placed a hoof on his shoulder. “Listen Dave, I love you more than any father could love a son”

Dave opened his mouth to respond but was cut off as Strong Shield forced the key into Dave’s mouth and kicked him in the stomach. As Dave gasped, the key was pulled into his throat and Strong Shield held his hoof behind Dave’s head as he massaged his throat

With a loud gulp, Dave pulled back and began coughing. “I… really dislike you right now”

“Well if you dislike me now you will hate me when we have to get the key out again”

“Oh ha ha… wait…” Dave’s eyes shot open as his hand covered his buttocks. “Please tell me you are joking”

Strong Shield simply shrugged as he left the room. “I can’t be sure until we get to the vault or you get severe constipation”

Dave shuddered as he followed Strong Shield, “Do ponies have lubricant on this world?”

“I heard Princess Cadence has something similar”

“I don’t want it chocolate flavoured” Dave groaned as he dreaded to think what items Cadence had in her possession

Chapter 40

Dave scratched at his throat as he left the small operating room, Strong Shield following close behind. The unicorn walked over to his desk and began to shuffle some items around, mainly sheets of paper or small scraps of metal

“Alright what are you doing tonight?” Strong Shield picked up something that looked like a napkin covered in scribbles. He turned the pad until he spotted an address and a time

“Unless Celestia decides I should be spending the night giving her a massage to make up for everything wrong I’ve done… I should be free,” Dave coughed and winced in quick succession, “Ok the key is firmly lodged in my stomach

Strong Shield gently tapped his temporary eye patch before turning to face Dave. “If you come to the barracks after sundown then I will take you to a show”

“I don’t have to ask a dumb question to know that we aren’t going to watch a musical,” Dave groaned as he clutched his stomach. “I’ll see you later if I can”

Strong Shield grunted in response as Dave left the secret room and into the recruit quarters. Odio was still waiting as Dave stepped out of the room and shut the door behind him

“So what did pops want?” Odio asked impatiently as he followed Dave back through the castle corridors. The human coughed and burped occasionally as the key continued to roll and poke at the lining in his gut

“Just… leave it,” Dave let out a long breath before smiling again. “Do you know what the time is?”

Odio smirked, “time you got a watch, BOOM!” the fog swirled happily as Dave gave a sarcastic laugh

“Alright I guess I walked into that one,” Dave rubbed the back of his neck as he looked out one of the windows. “But seriously, what is the time?”

“Time watches could get pregnant so we could all have one,” Odio smirked as Dave gave up and walked away, heading towards the kitchens, Odio hurrying to follow him

Dave gasped as Odio flowed up his trenchcoat and hid behind his back. “I guess you are a shy one around ponies”

“Not shy! The puny ponies can’t understand me, so they dislike me” Odio groaned, “It is a miracle that Celestia and Luna are putting up with me so far”

“Just thank me for being your little miracle, seeing as I am the one that stopped you from being disintegrated,” Dave rolled his eyes as he stepped into the kitchen and was instantly greeted by the head chef

“What may I get you your majesty?” the chef bowed so quickly that his hat was thrown into Dave’s chest, causing the chef to bow again as he picked it up from the ground. “I do apologize for my rudeness your majesty”

Dave sighed, “listen, I don’t like all this ‘your majesty’ stuff and I would be much happier with being called by my proper name”

The chef paused, obviously wondering if this was some kind of test or an actual request. “Ok, Dave, what can I get you?”

“I’ll have a carrot without the skin, I just want something light I can eat while I try and find Celestia,” Dave didn’t have time to wait for a response as the head chef personally set about getting a large carrot and cutting the skin away. After a blur of knife cuts, the carrot was smooth and was shining as a bright orange

“Thanks,” Dave smiled as he bit the end of the carrot, allowing the juice to hang around on his tongue before chewing the vegetable itself and giving a casual salute. “Keep up the good work!”

“Of course your… I mean Dave!” the head chef beamed happily as he returned to whatever task he was performing before the human arrived

Dave left the kitchen and Odio removed himself from his hiding place. “So Mr Rabbit, are we going to the throne room or to some other random place?”

“I was thinking we could hang around the palace gardens or the dining room until dinner,” Dave frowned as Odio groaned in protest

“Aww, can’t you skip dinner? You don’t need to eat and you have already missed every other dinner you said you would attend,” Odio made a pout with his fog but Dave wafted it aside with his hand

Dave bit his carrot again and pointed the end at Odio, “That is why I need to go to this one, I need to catch up with Celestia and start being a good husba…” Dave slapped his hand over his mouth as Odio glared at him

“Were you going to say HUSBAND?!” Odio growled as small sparks of red bounced around the fog, “You are planning on marriage NOW!”

“Well duh!” Dave held up his hands, “When else?”

Odio stammered before taking a second to collect his thoughts, “Honestly? In a century or two”

“Haha, no,” Dave bit another piece of carrot off, “I love Celestia and I want to marry her before Nox gets any older!” He finished his sentence by throwing the rest of his carrot in his mouth, “and I don’t care who knows it!”

A female voice from behind Dave made him freeze, “So… when did you propose?”

Dave slowly turned and Odio slowly floated away, making sure he wasn’t around when the awkward atmosphere made time slow down. “H-hey Luna, how are you?”

“I’m well,” the princess of the night looked up at Dave, “I am surprised that you and Celestia have engaged without me being informed, I suppose my sister has had a few busy days so she couldn’t talk”

Dave shuffled his feet as he looked at Luna’s curious face, “Well I haven’t proposed yet but I was planning to soon”

“Oh,” Luna had a mixed tone of pleasure and disappointment, “Well I hope that you will let me know when you do, I want to be the first to congratulate you both”

The uncomfortable human was not sure if she was trying to get some sympathy or if she was genuinely happy. Instead, Dave decided it was for the best that he did not investigate and end up in trouble

“I have to hope Celestia says ‘yes’ first though,” Dave joked, his uneasy laughter was met with a polite smile and nod. “Listen um… are you alright with this?”

Luna dropped her head and shook it gently, “Am I alright with seeing my sister happy? Of course I am you silly beast,” Luna moved forwards and wrapped her hooves around Dave’s neck, pulling him in for a hug. “You don’t need my permission”

“I’m sorry, I just thought that our past might have made things difficult with me and Celestia,” Dave flinched as he realized what he said, “I’m sorry I didn’t mean…”

Luna released Dave and placed a hoof on his lips, “I know you made a mistake, you make plenty,” the alicorn joked. “But I love my sister even more than I love you, and you making her happy means that I will be happy too”

“Luna…” Dave sighed as he rubbed his eyes, “you know that you will always have a place in my heart, and it makes me happy to know that you are supporting this”

The princess of the night closed the gap between Dave and moved her mouth to his ear. “Take her to the top of the mountain tomorrow at midday and get ready to propose, she won‘t be able to say no”

“Thanks Luna, I don’t know how I could ever repay you,” Dave sighed as his vague plans for tomorrow were quickly replaced

Luna moved her mouth away from Dave’s ear and planted it against his lips, savouring the moment before gently pulling away. “Repaid,” she whispered before walking down the corridor and leaving Dave alone, confused and his stomach doing flips whilst the key inside began cutting again

Later…

Dave wiped his mouth as he finished eating his large lunch, smiling at Applebloom from across the table. “So how long have you and Nox been going out?”

“Well we have been together for a few days,” Applebloom nervously shuffled in her seat as Celestia gave her a motherly smile

“Well it is nice to have you over for dinner,” Celestia’s reassuring smile was met by a bow of the earth ponies head. “Oh, please don’t use formalities now, you are special to my son so you are special to me”

Nox blushed as he looked over at Applebloom, “Sorry about my parents, I hope they aren’t being weird,” he whispered

“Well Dave has always been different,” Applebloom joked as Nox hid his giggle. The human could not help but smirk as he saw Nox nuzzle the pony beside him

Celestia yawned as she stood up, “Now make sure you both get to bed on time, daddy has been a bit naughty recently and needs to get some rest”

“Yeah I have been busy with… work,” Dave lied as he reassured the young ponies as he followed Celestia out of the dining hall and left the couple to eat their meal together. “They are certainly happy”

“So long as Nox is happy then I am happy,” Celestia stated as she walked close to Dave’s side, smiling as he rested his hand on her back. “So are you tired or will I have to make sure you are?”

Dave hummed, “Well I suppose a bit of mild exercise would help me get ready for bed” he teased as he winked at the alicorn beside him

“Trust me, there will be nothing mild about it,” Celestia smiled proudly as Dave blushed. “You are too easy sometimes”

“And you are too good all the time,” Dave chuckled as he rubbed his red-hot cheeks. “But we do need some sleep so will you make sure you don’t get overexcited?”

Celestia pouted, “Alright, I love you enough to know that we can make up the time later”

The couple nodded to the guards that stood outside Celestia’s quarters but Dave gave a small indication of pointing to Celestia, then himself, followed by a wink. The guards playfully rolled their eyes as they pulled out earplugs and some newspapers

Meanwhile…

Nox used his magic to hold Applebloom’s ice cream as they walked down the white corridors, the couple playfully made faces at a guard and he resisted smiling or making any facial emotion

Finally, the pair made it to one of the guest rooms and stepped in, a guard positioned himself outside, probably due to orders that the young prince had some protection. Nox placed the two large bowls of ice cream down and joined Applebloom on the bed

“So what do you want to do?” the grey alicorn smiled, still recovering from his laughing session. His special somepony hummed as she tapped her chin

“I know, we can see if ya can make something else disappear!” Applebloom squeaked as she moved to look at Nox’s flank. “Maybe that is what your cutie mark is!”

Nox gave an unconvinced groan, “I don’t know… maybe”

“Well it is worth a shot!” Applebloom pointed at one of the pillows and hid behind Nox’s wings. “Make that disappear”

Nox rolled his eyes before furrowing his brow at the pillow, trying to match the spell he cast earlier. After a few minutes of silence and concentration, the only thing that changed was that the ice cream was now melted

Applebloom continued to stare excitedly, waiting for something to happen. “Are ya doing it yet?”

“I can’t do it!” Nox yelled before dropping his head. “Last time I was just making sure you didn’t get hurt because you forgot about the timber wolves!”

Nox turned his head and saw that Applebloom was frozen on the spot, frightened that Nox’s voice had risen in volume dramatically an his anger was dripping from his voice. Even the guard poked his head in to make sure everything was ok before returning to his position outside the bedroom

“I-I’m sorry Applebloom, I didn’t mean to…” Nox was cut short as Applebloom began crying and ran for the balcony, dropping to her flank and covering her eyes with her hooves

Nox’s ears drooped as he heard a few sniffles coming from the earth pony. Eventually he plucked up the courage to follow her outside and sit beside her, still remaining silent as she cried softly

“Applebloom…” Nox closed his mouth as no words came to mind. He stared at his hooves, angry that he made the filly beside him cry. He looked up at the starry sky before standing up again and turning to Applebloom. “Would you like a star?”

Applebloom stopped crying as she looked up at Nox with tears still in the corners of her eyes, “B-but why?”

“Because I want to show you how precious you are… by giving you something nopony else has,” Nox turned to look up at the sky before his gaze fell on one of the brighter stars. He pointed his horn before he focused on pulling the star towards him

Applebloom watched as Nox’s horn suddenly burst into light and a long beam raced out into space, the alicorn beginning to sweat as he clenched his eyes. The beam stopped before slowly reeling back in and disappearing

“I… whew… managed to make it come this way,” Nox said proudly as he looked up at the star. But his face turned into a frown as a second light began to flicker in the sky. Nox narrowed his gaze before his eyes popped open in shock, “Oh no,” he gasped as the large lump of rock became visible very quickly

Nox threw his wings around Applebloom, attempting to protect her from the incoming meteor as he held her close in a tight embrace. Applebloom held Nox back as she closed her eyes, waiting for the sudden force to hit them. But as the collision never occurred, Nox slowly turned his head to look back

“AUNTIE LUNA!” Nox cheered as he saw the princess of the night effortlessly hold the large rock using her magic. The princess turned her attention to Nox with a disappointed frown

“What do you thing you were doing?” The taller alicorn spoke in an angry tone, “You could have harmed everypony in Canterlot!”

“I-I’m sorry, I just wanted to do something special for Applebloom after I made her cry,” Nox looked back at Applebloom with apologetic eyes, “but I almost made everything worse”

Luna sighed as she saw Nox’s bottom lip began to quiver and Applebloom gave him a reassuring hug. “Uh, you are too much like your father, doing something exceptional and only realizing how big a deal he caused when it is too late”

Nox looked up at the meteor before flying up to it and bucking it with all his strength, causing a small piece to break off and fall to the balcony. The colt then rummaged through the rubble with his hooves until he found a lump that had strange crystals growing on one side

The princess smiled, “not to mention you care about your love first before yourself”

“I said I would get you a star,” Nox said to Applebloom as he extended his hooves to the pony. “But will this do for now?”

Applebloom took the colourful rock and wrapped her hooves around Nox’s neck, “Thank you Nox… ah… I love you”

Nox smiled as he hugged Applebloom back, “I… love you too”

Luna gently shook her head as she sent the meteor back into space, she smiled at the young couple as she flew back into the air and towards her tower. As she was out of range of anypony that could hear her, she began to sigh and allow her ears to droop

“Too much like your father”

Chapter 41

Dave managed to creep out of Celestia’s bedroom and into the corridor where the two guards were still relaxing. They gave him a set of raised eyebrows as he pulled a white hair off his tongue and flicked it away

“Um… she likes to snuggle,” Dave gave a quick smile before rushing away and heading towards the barracks. He made it halfway before Strong Shield turned the corner and bumped into him

The black unicorn grumbled as he raised a hoof to his fresh stitches on his eye. “Watch where you are going next time”

“I’m guessing the alcohol has left your system.” Dave placed his hands in his pockets as Strong Shield nodded and began to walk towards the castle gates. “So what are we doing at this time at night?”

“We are going to see a match,” Strong Shield replied as they stepped out into the chilly air

Dave narrowed his eyes, “I take it we aren’t going to see a wonderbolt thing?”

…

The large Pegasus held up his hooves but could not stop the force from the unicorn’s buck from sending him against the stone wall. The Pegasus wiped the blood from the side of his mouth before being smashed in the chin by another powerful kick

“Oh and the challenger has gone down!” the commentator laughed, his hoof scratching the short stubble on his cheek. He looked down at the unicorn that had defeated the ninth pony to step into the dirt pit. “Will nopony stop this unicorn’s rampage? The bounty is up to five thousand bits for whoever can stop this monster!”

Dave sat with his wooden flagon of cider, his eyes watched the tall unicorn sit on a bail of hay and had a bucket of water thrown over him, washing the blood and mud from his black mane and yellow body. His cutie mark was two hooves being smashed together. The Pegasus he beat looked athletic but did not have the stamina to keep fighting and had to be dragged out of the pit

“I’m guessing that this is bare-knuckle…. Bare-hoof boxing,” Dave shuffled as another scruffy pony moved and obstructed his view. “Why are we right at the back?”

“Brawler has just managed to win enough fights so that he has been undefeated for two weeks straight, that is almost an eighth of the best record that was set years ago,” Strong Shield sipped his water and his face scrunched in disgust as the staleness stuck to his tongue

Dave shrugged, “So? Why are we here if it is only a really big unicorn? Admittedly he does look a little bigger than Big Mac but I don’t think he would last as long”

“Because this is the first time somepony has reached this far in months,” Strong Shield glared amongst the crowd, “Somepony wants to make sure his record is safe”

Dave looked back up at the commentator that stood in a box that was suspended above the mud pit. He was scanning the crowd and tried to tempt somepony to face the tough unicorn. His eyes widened as he saw a navy hoof extend into the air

“A new challenger appears!” The commentator tapped his hooves to get everypony to pay attention. Some ponies began to place bets as the challenger stepped forwards and dropped down into the pit

“Oh… shit,” Dave placed his drink down as he leaned forward, shoving a pony out of his way. Strong Shield narrowed his eye at the new challenger as he did a few stretches

“So what’s yer name old timer?” The commentator smiled down at the earth pony

The hulking pony smiled up at the commentator, “Battering Ram and I am just here for the cash so you might want to start bagging it up or write a cheque”

“Alright, Brawler against Battering Ram!” The commentator called out, “Youth vs… midday naps!”

Battering Ram continued to smile as Brawler scoffed and strutted up to the taller pony, “Dant worry gramps, I aint allowed ta use my magic in tha pit”

“So you have a disadvantage?” Battering Ram lost his smile, “You will lose either way”

“Yer carers must be out lookin for ya, they must think you gon crayzay,” the unicorn’s accent made Dave instantly think of the cockneys and gypsies that lived on Earth

The commentator smirked as the final bets were placed, “Rules! No racial advantage, that means no magic or wings! That’s all we got so far and it hasn’t done us wrong in fifty years,” he smirked, “Now fight!”

Battering Ram closed his eyes as Brawler rose to his hind legs to deliver the first blow. To Dave’s surprise, the earth pony did not resist as the unicorn began his vicious assault or bucks and punches. Battering Ram’s eyes remained closed as he muttered something silently

“What is he saying?” Dave looked at the frowning Strong Shield

“I have no idea,” Strong Shield leaned forwards as Battering Ram was pinned against the wall and his stomach began receiving powerful punches that would have winded anypony else. “He is counting down with every attack he receives,” he whispered in confusion

Battering Ram spat some blood from his cut lip as he was released from the wall and heard the crowd cheer for his opponent. He stood calmly as Brawler lined up a hook up and swung it into Battering Ram’s jaw

It collided with enough force to send the earth ponies’ head upwards, his eyes slid open as he mouthed, “Zero”

Battering Ram roared as he finally brought his muscles into use and brought his raised head smashing down into Brawler’s face. The smash from Battering Ram’s forehead let out a loud crack that silenced the crowd as Brawler’s cheek was crushed

Ram followed with a short and powerful jab to an exposed shoulder that resulted in another crack and the unicorn to fall face first into the mud. He hooked a hoof under Brawler’s waist and effortlessly lifted the unicorn over his head and slammed him into the wall

The crowd sat in silence, stunned that the unbeaten fighter was rendered unconscious in mere moments by an older pony that was allowing himself to take a beating. The commentator blinked as his champion was dragged out of the pit and was being seen to by a medically trained pony

“W-well what do ya know,” the commentator gulped, “The winner is Battering Ram and he wins the jackpot of five thousand bits”

Battering Ram happily stayed in the pit as the money was being counted, the crowd of ponies were reduced to low mumblings as their entertainment was cut short. Dave sat wide-eyed as he looked at Strong Shield

“What now?” Dave gulped

“Nothing, I just wanted to know if him and Flux were still in Canterlot,” Strong Shield nodded, “We are done here”

Dave looked down at the earth pony, he froze as he saw Battering Ram was looking back at him. The earth pony ignored Dave but shot Strong Shield an aggressive snort. Dave frowned as Strong Shield looked away, “Well I am getting answers!”

Strong Shield groaned as Dave stood up and took off his trench coat and shirt, leaving himself in his jeans. He marched down to the pit and dropped in, the crowd all turned their gazes as Dave pointed at Battering Ram

“I bet two bits that I will beat you!” Dave glared as Battering Ram sighed

“Fine, two bits” Battering Ram turned to face the human, sending a quick glance to the commentator, “it isn’t like anypony else is going to fight now”

Dave clenched his fists and held them up, relaxing one hand and letting it hover above his other arm. Battering Ram did a short stretch before his eyes danced around the room before landing on Dave

“Five,” Battering Ram whispered as Dave lunged forwards and planted his fist into his neck. He grabbed Battering Ram’s head and kneed him before pushing away

The earth pony recovered quickly and coughed before he whispered again, “three”

Dave ran at the Battering Ram, jumping so he could use both feet to kick the side of Ram’s head. Battering Ram staggered but recovered by the time Dave was on his feet and running at him

“I want answers!” Dave growled as he grabbed Ram’s throat, lifted him and jabbed under his ribs. The earth pony didn’t react to the punch but instead gained a grin

“How about this?” Battering Ram stretched his neck as Dave let him go, “Hit me one more time, then for every decent attack that you hit me with, I will answer a question”

Dave nodded as he swung his leg and kicked Battering Ram in the side of the head. The earth ponies’ eyes flared as he grabbed the leg before it could pull away. Dave gasped as Ram yanked his body towards him before swiping at his face

Dave groaned as the hoof smashed against his face and caused his vision to completely disappear for a split second. He pushed himself to his feet as he looked at the earth pony, his fists clenched as he ran at the smirking pony

Battering Ram hopped to the side at the last second and brought his hoof up to catch Dave’s head, mid-run. Dave reached out and grabbed the hoof that remained outstretched. He pulled himself off the ground and swung onto Ram’s back, punching the back of the navy head as soon as he could

Battering Ram hopped into the air and allowed himself to slam into the dirt, Dave taking the full force from the throw. “Alright, one question, go”

“What was that… counting about?” Dave grunted as he stood up, his back covered in mud

Battering Ram looked at the floor, “For everypony that I hurt, I allow myself to receive a strike,” he looked up at Dave. “In this case, five, you, Strong Shield, Flux, Princess Celestia and Noxporta”

“How does that work?” Dave ducked as Battering Ram tried to hit him with a flying punch. “Alright another hit, another answer,” he remembered

Dave inched closer to Battering Ram, waiting to avoid another kick or punch. When they both remained still, Dave made the first move of a quick punch aimed for Ram’s head. It was slapped away and the same hoof swung back to smack into Dave’s stomach

Dave collapsed to his hands and knees as he struggled to regain his breath, he glanced up to see Battering Ram begin to slam down with his hooves. Dave dropped to his side, avoiding the hooves, countering by using his legs to sweep the front hooves from under Battering Ram

As the earth pony’s face fell into the mud, he chuckled as he pushed himself up. “Alright, I am beating you up, one,” he dashed forwards and grabbed Dave in a grabble that involved twisting his arm behind his back and throwing him to the ground

“Your father is watching, two, Celestia and Nox are your family and they will be worried about your health, three and four… five is Flux, I promised her that I wouldn’t fight you unless it was necessary… I broke that promise”

Dave rolled away from Battering Ram and shook his head, mud clung to his dirty hair. “Next question, what were you to my father?”

Dave rushed forwards and tried to punch the side of Battering Ram’s head, his futile punch was blocked and he was struck across the head in return. But this time he flowed with the attack and used the extra force and twist to arc his foot up and kick the opposite side of Battering Ram’s head

“Heh… we were basically brothers, he would do anything for me and I would do anything for him, well… I used to,” Battering Ram sighed as he glanced at the glaring Strong Shield. “Our group started apart but we formed the greatest bonds that we struggle to break even when we want to”

The earth pony looked back and saw that Dave was missing, he tensed his muscles before Dave’s attempt at an elbow drop could hit his back. Dave yelped as his arm hit something as strong as concrete

“Ok, I guess I deserved that for trying a sneaky trick,” Dave stood up and nursed his arm, “But it was still a hit so… what will you do when you open the vault?”

“It isn’t Project Harvest!” Battering Ram spat, “If it is then I would gladly fight it and then hand myself in for all the crimes I committed”

Dave paused, “Harvest? What the hell is that?”

“It is a blasted abomination which was destroyed!” Battering Ram glared at Strong Shield, “It is impossible that it still exists”

“Fine, last question,” Dave figured Ram had stopped caring about the agreement but he continued anyway. “Why are you doing all this?”

“Because if a few of us sacrifice our time living then we can make everyponies life better, no war, no crime, no… sadness,” Battering Ram groaned, “Strong Shield didn’t join because he was too obsessed being a hero of the guards… he wasn’t even awarded when he stopped us the first time”

“You were killing innocent ponies,” Dave sighed as he stood up straight, his chance to prepare was taken as Battering Ram manoeuvred around him and grabbed his chest. The large earth pony grunted as he arched his back and dropped Dave on his head, gaining a gasp from the crowd

“The ponies we took were criminals,” Battering Ram muttered as he stood, “My question now… why do you fight so hard for somepony you still can’t fully trust?”

Dave glanced at Strong Shield, “Because he is family, if it makes him happier then I will do anything I can… even if it means me getting beat up to find out that you still have a soft spot for him”

“There is nothing soft about me,” Battering Ram snarled until he looked up at Strong Shield, “just tell him that… never mind, he wouldn’t believe me”

“Wait, what is it?” Dave looked at Battering Ram from his position in the dirt

Battering Ram chuckled, “Tell him I am sorry for knocking his son unconscious”

“But I am not uncons…”

THWACK!

Chapter 42

Battering Ram walked down the dark road, his cart full of moneybags hardly slowing him down as he walked. The cool breeze rolled across his body as he looked up at the lowering moon, his eyelids dropping slightly as he rubbed his jaw

“That kid sure packs a punch,” Battering Ram chuckled as the dull pain faded away with the wind. The earth pony stopped outside his temporary home and removed the cart from himself, picking up the bags by his teeth and creeping into the cold building

Battering Ram placed the bags down in the kitchen before standing at the bottom of the stairs, holding his breath as he listened to the silence. As he heard a slow breath from the sleeping Flux he walked into the bathroom and filled the sink with warm water

The huge pony held a cloth under the water before picking it up and wiping the dirt from his face, his eyes glancing over the small bruises across his body. He groaned as he used the cloth to clean the rest of his body, his hoof pausing over the deep scar on his back

Why? Why now?

You know I joined the guards because I thought that I could help everypony

But if you help Puppetmaster then all of Equestria will be at risk

If I do this then nopony will have to fear criminals or worry about crime

Don’t turn your back on the guards, don’t turn your back on me… I thought we were brothers!

We were Strong Shield… if you want to hurt him then you will have to go through me

Battering Ram… if that is what it takes then I have no choice

“I just keep making mistakes,” Battering Ram sighed as he pulled the plug out of the sink, allowing the water to take the dirt away. He used a towel to dry himself before stepping back over to the bags of coins

He took a small heap of bits and transferred them to a cheap saddlebag, making sure that he didn’t wake Flux as he picked up the saddlebag and left the house again. He looked around at the quiet street before slowly making his way towards the shops

Battering Ram stopped in an alleyway that joined onto the main street that led to the castle gates, his breathing stopped again as he stepped backwards into the shadows. Strong Shield and Dave walked towards the castle, Dave mumbling about the mud that stained his body

As the pair left Battering Ram’s view, he slowly stepped out and walked over to a bakery, a mare was yawning as she began making the dough she would turn into bread later. Battering Ram tapped the glass gently and caused the lime mare to jump in shock

“Sorry for disturbing you but have you got any bread?” Battering Ram sighed as he realized how stupid he sounded. “I know it is very early but the ducks are usually active around sunrise and I want to be ready”

The tired mare opened the window and exchanged two loaves of bread for a generous amount of bits. Battering Ram thanked the mare before placing the bread into his saddlebags and walking back down the street, his body shivered as another cool breeze rolled over him

The giant wandered down some streets until the buildings eventually disappeared and was replaced with trees and park benches. One bench was positioned close to the edge of a slow moving stream, a few ducks huddled under the wood whilst the rest were swimming around the water, bobbing their heads under occasionally

“Hey guys,” Battering Ram chuckled as the ducks noticed him coming and began to quack happily, a few chicks running over to flap around his large hooves. The earth pony sat down and removed his saddlebags, pulling out a loaf of bread

The ducks began to move into the view of the pony, quacking louder in hopes of getting more bread. Battering Ram tore a corner off the loaf and dropped it amongst the ducks, the pony smiled as one managed to steal it before any of the other ducks had a chance to grab it

A few ducklings were clustered together and Battering Ram threw a larger chunk for them to share. The ducks eventually settled down and waited for the huge pony to drop some bread for them to eat. One of the ducks stood away from the rest of the hungry birds

Battering Ram threw a small piece of bread to the duck but the bird ignored it and continued to stare away from the crumbs that dropped to the ground. Battering Ram crushed the rest of the loaf and scattered the bread across the ground, allowing the ducks to help themselves as he carefully stepped over to the vacant duck

“What’s up with you eh?” Battering Ram lay down so his head was beside the duck. “You normally like some bread before sunrise”

The duck shivered as Battering Ram gently tapped him with his hoof. The large earth pony frowned as he saw some dried blood on the grass. He lifted the feathers out of the way and saw a large cut across the duck’s leg, a piece of wire poking out of the wound

The duck waddled away as Battering Ram stood up and glared around, growling as he spotted some broken fencing higher upstream. The earth pony crushed the other loaf of bread and threw the crumbs into the water, allowing the ducks to exercise for their food and the ducklings to finish up the crumbs that were still amongst the grass

Battering Ram put on his saddlebag, marched over to the broken fencing, grabbed the wire between his teeth, and pulled it out of the rotting wood. He rolled up the wire and placed it in his saddlebag before marching towards the castle

The large pony managed to get to the castle with little effort as his long strides allowed him to quickly cover ground until he was at the castle gates. He stopped outside the gates and coughed to get one of the night guards’ attention

“If you want to speak to the princess, the daily hearings start at eleven in the morning,” The night guard returned to facing forwards with a neutral stare

Battering Ram glared, “There is a night hearing for emergencies, or has that been removed?”

“No, but whatever you want to ask can wait until morning,” the guard snorted in annoyance as he looked at the taller pony

“I pulled wire fencing out of the stream in Canterlot, if a pony were to get tangled then they could drown,” Battering Ram looked at the gate with a focused glare. “I reckon that counts as an emergency”

The night guards groaned before opening the gates and allowing one of the guards on the other side to lead the earth pony into the castle and let him wait outside the throne room doors. The night guard then walked in a completely different direction, leaving Battering Ram alone with his thoughts

Why did you join the guards?

I think that everypony should try to help those with less

But you could take what you want, why bother being nice?

Well… while I was growing up, I saw somepony being intimidated into giving his hard-earned money to a thug. The thug took the coins and ran off, the victim spent the next two days without food because he could not afford to feed his entire family

What happened to the victim?

He collapsed and spent a day in hospital. He would have been fine if I had just helped him against the thug. I could have spared his family the fear of almost losing a loved one

You shouldn’t think about ‘what ifs’

I don’t. I always think, ‘what next’

Battering Ram was torn from his memories as Princess Luna stopped in front of him. “Your majesty!” Battering Ram sunk into a bow as the princess nodded

“I didn’t know that we had night hearings,” Luna smiled, “But it is more surprising to hear that there is an emergency”

“Yes your majesty,” Battering Ram opened his saddlebag and pulled out the rusty wire, “Canterlot Park has been seeing growing amounts of litter and this was in the stream only a few minutes ago”

Luna had to hide her surprise at the size of the pony, her eyes had to look up at the navy chin of the earth pony. “W-well I suppose this could be a problem if left unattended”

The night guard that accompanied the princess frowned, “Your majesty is this really a problem? The wire would probably sink and become buried at the bottom of the stream”

“Some young colts and fillies swim in the stream during hot summer days, if this wire was to become caught around one of their soft hooves then they could become snared and then drown,” Battering Ram growled at the guard

The guard stood forwards, his armour obviously not gaining the fear that normal ponies usually showed. “That is ridiculous, I doubt a living thing could get caught in this wire”

“A duck cut its leg because of this wire,” Battering Ram snarled. “Complain when a child dies and have that become a burden on your conscious!”

“SILENCE!” Luna called, the guard bolted to attention whilst Battering Ram slowly returned to his standing position, his head slightly dipped in apology. “Battering Ram, you came into my castle and have now started an argument with one of my guards, and foolishly he reacted”

The guard flinched as Luna glared at him, she looked back towards Battering Ram, expecting him to be nervous or bowing in apology. But the pony surprised her again as he was staring straight at her, meeting her glare

“Do you know that you could be perceived as threatening the Princess of the night?” Luna raised an eyebrow. “That glare looks aggressive”

“Disappointment actually,” Battering Ram sighed, “I was hoping to have this problem sorted by some other means and have measures put in place to make sure Canterlot Park doesn’t become such a mess again… but it looks like I will have to sort it with my own hooves”

Luna stepped forwards, her eyes staring into Battering Ram’s unmoving pupils. “Why would you take time to do that?”

“Because there are a family of ducks that I would hate to see disappear,” Battering Ram blinked and his face became more sympathetic. “I wouldn’t allow anypony to suffer, so why should I allow wildlife to suffer?”

“Guard, please send word to the castle groundskeeper that he should take the next few days off to attend to Canterlot park until a permanent solution can be found,” Luna glanced at the guard and he saluted, hurrying away and leaving the alicorn and the earth pony alone

Battering Ram smiled, “Thank you Princess Luna, I will make my own way out of the castle,” he bowed before picking up the wire and placing it back in his saddlebag

“For a pony of such size… you certainly seem like a gentle one,” Luna smiled, her posture relaxing slightly

Battering Ram chuckled, “I only wish to protect, not to mention the ducks are good company,” he laughed as Luna began giggling behind one of her hooves

“Seeing as you did such a service for our local park and the… ducks,” Luna smiled, “I will be lowering the moon in a few minutes… would you like to join me for my morning meal?”

“W-well I don’t think that would be a good idea,” Battering Ram blushed, “Would you really like a simple earth pony to stay in the castle?”

Luna smiled before starting to walk away, “My nephew has recently become an item with an earth pony… I don’t see a problem conversing with one for a few minutes, do you?”

Battering Ram finally broke a bead of sweat, “W-well I-I um…” his mouth opened slightly as the Princess of the night was surrounded by a silver glow, her eyes closed as the moon fell below the horizon and the sun slowly rose to take it’s place

Luna smiled as the sunrise poured in through the windows and cast a warm orange across the white corridor and over the sleek princess. “Join me for a short breakfast at least?”

Battering Ram coughed as he caught himself staring, his throat unusually dry as a smile shot to his face. “If you insist your majesty,” he replied as he followed the princess

Chapter 43

Dave snuggled against his pillow as Celestia rested her head on his back. Neither of them really wanting to get out of bed and disrupt the comfortable positions there were in

Finally Celestia sighed and used her magic to open the curtains and allow the light to slam into Dave’s eyes, causing him to flip from sleepy to wide awake

“Argh no,” Dave groaned as he sat up to move his head out of the way of the sunlight. He rubbed his eyes and looked over at the alicorn that sat beside him. “So how are you today?”

“I’m doing well,” Celestia smiled as she rested her head on Dave’s shoulder. “I heard you in the bath earlier, did I make you that sweaty?”

Dave rolled his eyes, “Yeah, you really outdid yourself last night,” he smirked as Celestia hummed happily

The white alicorn pushed herself up and began levitating her regalia over to herself so she could begin dressing. Dave reluctantly climbed out of bed as well, making sure his bruised body had healed before standing up in search of his shirt

As the pair finished dressing, Dave left his trenchcoat on the bed and followed Celestia out of the bedroom and past the guards that spent most of the night with earplugs equipped. Dave stretched as he walked, wincing as he felt a scratch in his stomach, the key inside stabbing and poking at Dave’s insides

Celestia noticed Dave’s face twitch painfully, “Are you feeling ok?” the white alicorn lost her smile until Dave gave her a reassuring grin

“Yeah I’m fine,” Dave lied, “Just working out the kinks you gave me last night,” he joked in an effort to reassure the princess

Celestia bought the lie and gave Dave a mischievous wink. The human sighed as he poked his belly until the key had shifted into a more comfortable position. The couple finally reached the dining hall but stopped at the doors as they heard a soft giggling

“Is that… Luna?” Dave scratched his head, “I wonder what could have made her this happy?”

“Only one way to find out,” Celestia smiled as she pushed open the door and entered the room, Dave entered shortly after and he saw the navy earth pony that sat at the table, keeping a respectable distance from Luna

Battering Ram continued to laugh with Luna until his eyes moved across to Dave, his laughing stopped as he exchanged a slightly worried and shocked look with Dave. Dave quickly sat into his seat that was near Celestia’s and sent a small glare to the pony at the other end of the table

“Sister! You will not believe what happened last night,” Luna smiled enthusiastically as her bigger sibling leaned forwards slightly, “this kind citizen did the nicest thing”

Battering Ram’s face froze, “Um… your majesty, does Princess Celestia really need to know? It was nothing and it doesn’t need any attention”

“Nonsense,” Luna smiled at Battering Ram’s nervous attitude whilst Dave gained a devious smile. “This generous earth pony was feeding the ducks early this morning and found that dangerous litter was endangering the wildlife, so he cleaned it up, marched straight here and brought it to my attention”

Battering Ram dropped his head as he heard Dave start chuckling at the mention of ducks. The princess of the sun did not notice Dave as she listened to her little sister

“Well this pony certainly cares about his local environment,” Celestia nodded to Battering Ram, “it is nice to see somepony doing that bit more for the community”

Dave could not help but lean forwards with a smile, “So do you regularly feed the cute little duckies?”

Battering Ram sighed, “Every other day, sometimes the fresh air is a nice change”

“You will have to see if Luna would like to go feed the ducks with you,” Dave sniggered as he relaxed into his chair, smiling at Battering Ram’s glare

“That sounds like a good idea,” Luna smiled as Dave and Battering Ram both exchanged confused glances before shifting their gazes to the princess of the night

“W-well if you don’t mind princess,” Battering Ram spluttered, his nervousness made Dave confused as every time he met the huge pony, his attitude had been almost like Strong Shield’s except with more smiling and less negativity

Luna smiled as she rested her hooves on the table, “Well I haven’t actually been to Canterlot Park before, I’m sure we can get some bread and feed the ducks,” the princess smiled whilst Battering Ram rolled his eyes

“This is going to haunt me forever,” Ram muttered to himself as he eventually agreed. “Ok, I suppose I could fetch some bread and we can feed them this afternoon”

Dave was red in the face from holding back his laughter, his lips held firmly between his teeth as he finally managed to calm down. The human took a deep breath before his usual breakfast was placed in front of him

The human hungrily started to eat his breakfast before his eyes popped open, “Rough Cut…” Dave remembered the ring that must have been finished for a while. “So Celestia, have you got a busy day?”

“Nothing but paperwork today,” Celestia sighed, for every hour spent with Dave it meant another few sheets of paperwork to sort through. “What are you doing today honey?”

“Well I was wondering if we could have a meal out later,” Dave smiled, “just you and me, somewhere different”

Celestia smirked, “Where did you have in mind?”

“Well the castle is attached to a mountain but I have never seen the peak,” Dave tapped his chin as he hummed, “I’m sure we could have a picnic up there”

“But we would have to find a flat place to sit comfortably,” Celestia sighed, “Unless you want to have a look in a bit”

Luna beamed, “I recall seeing a nice place to sit just near the peak, and it is easy to get to and will be more than large enough for you both to have a picnic”

Celestia smiled as she began to eat her breakfast of only a few flowers and small pile of herbs. Dave and Luna both nodded to each other before resuming their meals, leaving Battering Ram to sit awkwardly between two princesses and opposite a cautious Dave

“So what is your name?” Dave narrowed his eyes, “is it something to do with feeding ducks?”

“My name is Battering Ram,” the pony replied, his smile grew slightly as Dave’s fun was shot down. “I did a lot of work in demolition for special clients… unfortunately as I grew older my services were no longer required”

Luna’s smile quickly disappeared, “How old are you? If you don’t mind me asking,” the princess listened with curiosity as Battering Ram finished his breakfast and cleared his throat

“Well I am actually fifty five,” Battering Ram smiled, “My life hasn’t been that interesting, just the usual working life, trying to get from day to day”

“Do you have much family?” Celestia asked as she listened to Battering Ram, “I apologise if I our questions seem a bit forward but we don’t regularly have guests”

Battering Ram nodded, “It’s no problem,” He looked at Dave, his ears drooped slightly before he looked down at his plate. “I have a brother, I don’t speak to him much but I hear he has been doing well… he even has a son now”

“Why don’t you talk?” Dave asked, his smiles and glares now buried beneath a heap of curiosity

“We fell out… over something petty,” Battering Ram sighed, “But last time I saw him he was in good health, his son has grown up to be strong…” he looked at Dave again, his eyes almost full of regret, “I just wish I could have had the courage to sit down and talk”

Dave was silent as he looked at the few bits of pancake that remained, his stomach churning with the key inside was ignored by the thoughts that weighed on his mind. Celestia looked slightly sorry for the earth pony whilst Luna was starting to have tears form at the corners of her eyes

“Alright, sorry to go like this but I have to do some bits and get the picnic ready,” Dave kissed Celestia as he made his way to the door. “Shall we meet about half eleven?”

Celestia nodded, “I will meet you there”

Dave left the dining room and calmly closed the door. He turned to walk towards the guard barracks and try to find Strong Shield, but he stopped as he looked out one of the stained glass windows

“Strong Shield or picnic?” Dave groaned, “Ram or ring?”

Dave decided to turn around and head for the castle gates, making his way through the corridors until he stepped out onto the castle courtyard and into the bright sun. He walked across the courtyard and began to walk down the streets, struggling to remember which road led to the jewellery shop

Finally, Dave found the shop after making a few random turns and stepped inside, the quiet shop a vast contrast from the bustling streets outside. Rough Cut was sat behind a glass counter and raised his eyes to look at the customer

“Ah Dave!” the pony burst into life, “I was almost out of hope! So I made a proper ring, just in case you came by to surprise me”

Dave frowned, “How did you know what size to make the ring?”

“Well, Princess Cadence is very well… endowed with her horn and it is only a fraction smaller then Princess Celestia’s,” Rough Cut smiled as Dave shrugged and walked over to the counter. Rough Cut reached below the counter and brought up a velvet box

Dave gently opened the box and whistled at the silk inside and the ring that was resting in the centre. The ring was about the length of Dave’s thumb, a thin gold band curled around, creating the hole for the horn to go through. The tips of the gold band were holding in place a single, oval diamond with a decorative carving made at the edges and left the flat surface to shine brightly as Dave continued to gawp

“And you are sure you don’t want payment?” Dave chuckled in disbelief as he picked up the box with the ring. “This must have cost an arm and a leg to get the materials!”

Rough Cut gained a smug smile, proud that his creation was gaining such compliments. “Well I had to call in a favour for such a large diamond, the band used up my reserves of pure gold and I make have gotten a few minor burns moulding the entire piece”

“Well I can’t thank you enough,” Dave smiled as he closed the lid and placed it in his pocket, keeping his hand on it so he did not have to worry about losing it. “And all you want is for me to let ponies know where you got this?”

“That is all I ask,” Rough Cut bowed to Dave. “I don’t care if you disapprove of the formalities but you will have to get used to them once you are married… Prince Dave”

Dave smirked as he reached over the counter and grabbed the pony in a hug, chuckling as he released him. “Cheers mate, see ya later!” Dave laughed as he ran out of the shop and left a confused pony to make sense of what happened

The happy human bounced along the streets, a large smile spread across his face as he hurried back towards the castle, saying hello to anypony he passed by. He reached the gate and the guard quickly opened it before Dave could bounce into the hard wood

Dave continued his journey into the castle, bouncing up the stairs with growing enthusiasm. He reached the castle kitchen and kicked the door open with a loud bang, sliding in as he pointed at the head chef

“Picnic!” Dave cheered, the head not following the human’s train of thought as he looked around in confusion

“H-has something happened?” the head chef looked at the other cooks who looked just as confused as he did

“Not yet, but soon!” Dave hopped to his feet and grabbed the head chef, “Need a picnic, for me and Celestia, need it to be romantic!”

The head chef took a slight step away from Dave, freeing himself from the human’s grasp. “Y-yes your highness, how romantic should this be? Is there an occasion?”

“Yes, THIS!” Dave pulled out the box from his pocket and revealed it to the chef

The head chef shrugged, “I don’t know how this could… be…” his eyes widened as he turned to his team of cooks. “ROSES! GET ALL THE ROSES, LILIES, DAFFODILS, WE NEED VIBRANCY!”

Dave’s smile continued to grow as the team of chefs began to rush around, grabbing all the ingredients and picnic essentials as the head chef yelled at them to move faster. The human looked at the engagement ring again, the realization of what he was about to do was finally settling in

But as the ponies around the kitchen continued to cook and prepare, Dave found himself humming happily, not noticing the pink alicorn step into the kitchen to investigate the noise and to see what Dave had in his hand. He began to wonder what Luna was going to do, and what would happen if Celestia said no

“Oh god,” Dave froze, his face full of horror. “What if she says no?”

Cadence leaned next to Dave’s ear, “Cold hooves?”

“FUCKING HELL!” Dave screamed as he tripped to the floor, the princess of love bursting into a laughing fit as Dave knocked a bowl of cake frosting over and it sprayed across his face

Cadence wiped her tear away and used her magic to clear most of the white frosting from Dave. She continued to giggle as Dave stood up and began staring at the ring again

“Listen Dave, I know you aren’t the most straightforward being to understand,” Cadence nudged Dave and smiled up at him, “But I do know that you truly love Celestia, and she feels the same”

“But what if?” Dave was cut off as Cadence placed a hoof over his mouth

“Celestia will say yes,” Cadence removed her hoof as Dave began smiling. “I know true love when I see it”

“Thanks Cadence,” Dave sighed, placing the box back in his pocket as he looked at the alicorn beside him. “I’ll let you know how it goes shall I?”

The head chef walked over and passed Dave a large picnic basket and a rolled up blanket, the entire cooking staff giving encouraging smiles. Cadence nodded as Dave took a deep breath and stood up, placing his doubts and fears aside as he marched for Celestia’s quarters

Chapter 44

Luna and Battering Ram both walked along the corridor, laughing quietly as they told each other jokes. The large earth pony smiled as he looked out of one of the large windows and down at Canterlot’s busy streets

The large earth pony sighed as he quietly returned to following the dark princess. He paused as the princess walked around the corner and gasped, quickly retreating and heading down the other way

“Is something wrong princess?” Battering Ram frowned as he moved to look around the corner

“No nothing,” Luna said quickly, impatiently inching down the corridor as she wanted Battering Ram to follow. “I umm… thought we could go see the castle gardens”

Battering Ram saw through the act and turned to peek around the corner, jumping back as a large black fog rushed past, red flashes of lightning bounced around as Odio swept past

“HEY LUNA! HEY BATTERING RAM!” Odio cheered as he raced down the corridor, pausing as he looked back at the large earth pony

Luna frowned at the two males as they glared at each other in confusion. “Excuse me Odio, but how do you know Battering Ram?”

“W-well I heard from Dave that there was a huge pony with that name,” Odio made a shrugging motion with his fog. “I made the connection with relative ease because of my new thinking skills I learnt in Phoenix Wright”

Battering Ram gave a confused look to Luna, the princess sighed as she rolled her eyes. “Odio has a strange hobby that involves him wasting time”

“Wasting time?” Odio growled, “I will have you know that I have reached the Ender Dragon in Minecraft, not that you would care… that reminds me, where is Dave?”

“I would say him and Celestia are about to make their way to the mountain top,” Luna smiled as Odio’s flaming eyes narrowed. “Dave is going to propose to Celestia with my help”

Odio pulsed red as his eyes widened, “What?”

Luna smiled at Odio’s discomfort, “Yes Dave has finally decided to settle down and put his adventures aside, that means you will have to learn to let go and stop being so persistent in trying to get his attention”

Odio’s growl turned into a soft purr, “Well it can’t be as tough for you, losing your forbidden love and your sister in one foul swoop, ooh that has got to sting!” Odio smirked as Luna’s smile faded, “If I lose, you lose, if I win, you lose… the thing is with you is that you don’t have many ponies near you that would help unless they had something to gain or they were family”

Luna lowered her head slightly, “Leave me alone Odio, you made your point”

“Uh uh,” Odio chuckled, “this is too much fun, watching you squirm, watching as every option around you involves you losing something dear to you.” Odio seemed to breathe in Luna’s sadness as her ears dropped even further, “You don’t have anypony to support you and nopony who loves you enough to stand up to me!”

“SHUT UP!” Battering Ram yelled, his voice echoing down the corridor as he caused Odio and Luna to both jump in shock. “You think you are untouchable! Unstoppable! But in reality you are pathetic, hiding behind Dave and using him as a tool against others because he is too kind hearted to say no to you!”

Odio snorted as he floated towards the pony, “Listen here you! I know things about you that would get you thrown out of here in a second, so if you don’t shut up then I will…”

“I DON’T CARE!” Battering Ram roared, “You work in the shadows, try to get dirt on ponies and blackmail them… without that, you are nothing, alone and weak”

“Fine!” Odio spat, “Princess Luna! This earth pony before you was once a guard here, before you returned and he has a very interesting past with…”

“Strong Shield,” Battering Ram sighed, “I was a guard, things went wrong, I fought Strong Shield and I left the guards.” He looked at Luna as he felt Odio’s eyes widen in surprise, “If you really want to know more then I will tell you later”

“W-why would you do that?” Odio gawped, “You do realize what could happen?”

Battering Ram nodded, “Yeah but I can’t stand by and watch somepony being bullied or hurt… even if it means me getting into trouble”

Luna stepped forwards and stood between Odio and Battering Ram, she sent a glare to Odio, “I suggest you leave”

Odio growled before deciding to float away, sending glares at the ponies. Battering Ram sighed as Luna stood to face him, her head held high as she narrowed her gaze. “Yeah, my protective attitude has gotten me into trouble before”

“Battering Ram?” Princess Luna said in a plain tone until Battering Ram took a deep breath and stood up straight, awaiting orders from the princess that could use her powerful magic to throw him aside

“Yes Princess Luna?” Battering Ram began to plan an escape route, starting with the door beside him to break visual contact with the powerful mage. It would force the princess to use a weaker spell with a wider radius, hopefully he could use his massive strength to push through and find another way to escape, possibly a balcony or a short fall out of a window

Battering Ram’s concentration was broken as Luna leaned forwards and gently rested her lips against his. Her eyes closed as his opened wide, shocked that he was being kissed, especially by a princess. The earth pony’s eyes slowly closed, sinking into the kiss

Luna gently pulled away as a smile crawled across her lips, her eyes gently opened to look at Battering Ram, his face still stuck as if he was still enjoying the moment. The princess placed her head next to the pony’s ear as her smile continued to grow

“I will come find you soon,” Luna whispered, “But first I have to make my sister happy”

The princess of the night walked down the corridor and left the confused Battering Ram to finally realize that he was no longer kissing anypony. “W-where am I?” he looked around in confusion until he caught on and his jaw dropped, “Ahh, buck”

Meanwhile…

The guards outside Celestia’s quarters both failed to keep their straight faces as Dave suddenly appeared at the top of the stairs and quickly walked over to the door. A large, excited smile across his face as he gently knocked on the golden doors

“Enter,” Celestia called, a mild tone of annoyance accompanied her voice. Dave was unfazed as he stepped into the room and Celestia suddenly beamed at him. “Why did you knock? You know you live here too”

Dave shrugged, “This feels better, almost more correct for our little outing”

“Who are you and what have you done with my special somepony?” Celestia smiled as she briefly narrowed her eyes. “Dave normally worries about everything and doesn’t walk around with a ridiculous grin… well most of the time he doesn’t”

“Well milady, I have a reason to be happy and we should be having fun with our picnic,” Dave tapped the large basket, the human pouting slightly. “I am trying to be romantic you know”

Celestia bit her bottom lip before walking away from the paperwork and into Dave’s outstretched arm, her horn glowing as she carried the large blanket. “If you are trying to seduce me then we could always have our picnic in here… I can order the whipped cream again”

Dave blushed at the wink, “Well as tempting as that is, I would prefer to have our picnic outside.” The red faced human smirked before leaning close to Celestia’s ear and whispering, “Maybe later though”

Celestia giggled playfully as they made their way through the castle and down the large steps. As they passed servants the love-struck couple, they bowed deeply and were met with thanks for all the work they did at the castle and inspiration for them to keep up the good work

The human and alicorn both stepped out onto the castle runway and walked towards the large storage buildings at the end of the marble runway. Dave took a few steps ahead of Celestia so he could open the door for her, playfully bowing as she walked past and swished her tail into his face

The pegasi inside the building were quickly getting into a line to salute and stand to attention. Celestia walked over to them whilst Dave looked over at the heavily polished carriages that were used for formal visits

The largest looked like it had to be pulled by eight pegasi guards, six in front and two on the sides. The size of it made it perfect for long visits that both the princesses were attending, not to mention it could open up and turn into a stage if it was needed

The rest were basically large chairs suited for the normal visits either of the alicorn sisters usually attended. The similarity between Celestia’s grand, but basic throne and Luna’s sleek, but primal chair was that they both reflected their uses inner personality. Celestia appeared grand but nopony got to see her natural side, Luna was a princess but most of her traits were still old fashioned

Dave finally returned his gaze to Celestia and saw that she was climbing onto a flat, golden chariot with a pair of guard pegasi attached to the front. Dave followed Celestia onto the chariot and placed his picnic basket between his feet

“So why are we on this?” Dave asked as he wobbled, the pegasi guards apologizing before moving forwards again except at a slower pace

Celestia nuzzled against Dave’s shoulder, seeming unfazed by the rocking of the chariot. “With this we can quickly find this flat bit of land and easily dismount”

“Makes sense,” Dave admitted, bracing himself as the pegasi flapped their wings and took to the air, taking their time so the chariot didn’t tip too far back and allow the passengers to slide off

The pegasi gently rose towards the mountain, eventually turning slightly so they could circle the mountain as they rose. The guard closest to the mountain began to scan near the peak, searching for the flat bit of land that Celestia described

“There,” the guard informed his wingpony, pointing at the flat spot until his co-worker nodded and they simultaneously began to slow and near the grassy, flat ground

Celestia levitated down the basket and blanket before gracefully opening her wings so she floated down. Dave thanked the guards before dropping down, bending his knees to absorb the shock. The alicorn used her magic to open the blanket and set it down, allowing Dave to begin to open the picnic basket

The white alicorn allowed her eyes to close as a warm breeze rolled past and gently stroked her face, her mane continued to flow in its own direction as it ignored the wind. Dave reached into the basket and pulled out a handful of rose petals

Dave glanced at Celestia, her back still facing him as she embraced the warmth of the sun. Dave gently threw the rose petals into the air, the wind catching some and helped spread them around the picnic area. He made sure that the petals were reasonably spread around before he walked over to Celestia and sat behind her, placing his hands on her shoulders as he gave the alicorn a small massage

“This is certainly a good view,” Dave noted as he looked over the edge of the mountain, the city of Canterlot was in full view from their position, the ponies looking like ants running around the cracks between stones

Celestia’s tensed muscles seemed to instantly relax as she gave into Dave’s massage, her head dropping as Dave used one hand to stoke her mane aside and allow himself access for him to kiss her neck

“Would you like something to eat?” Dave whispered as Celestia leaned back and rested her body against his

The white alicorn reluctantly got onto her hooves, gasping slightly as she saw the rose petals that were strewn across the blanket and beyond. “You are certainly outdoing yourself,” Celestia smiled as she sat next to the basket, her horn glowing yellow as she levitated out a small cupcake, the pink frosting piled high on the small bun

Dave sat next to Celestia as his eyes darted to the sky, searching for any sign of Luna or what she might have planned. He sighed as he rolled his head to look at Celestia, a small smirk crossing his lips as he noticed a small spot of icing was stuck to her nose

“Come here,” Dave smiled as he wiped the icing off with a finger and showed it to the white princess. “Biting more than you can chew?”

“The icing committed treason,” Celestia smiled as she licked the icing from Dave’s finger. “It had to be isolated from the rest of the icing in my mouth until it learned its lesson”

Dave chuckled as his hand dipped into his pocket, grabbing the small box as he took a few breaths to calm himself. He pulled the box out of his pocket as he hid it behind his back, mentally preparing himself to ask the question that burned in his mind

“Hey Celestia?” Dave sighed as he looked down at the gap between them, a single rose petal floated through as Celestia placed as hoof on Dave’s leg

“Yes Dave?” Celestia smiled reassuringly as she looked across at Dave, her smile faded as she noticed Dave’s nervous attitude. “Is something wrong?”

“Hmm? No, no,” Dave muttered slowly. “It’s only… I want to ask you a question”

The white princess frowned in curiosity, “What is it?”

Dave took a final deep breath, slowly pulling the box from behind his back. His eyes moved up to look at Celestia’s but her gaze shifted as the sky became dark and the light slowly dipped. Celestia looked up towards her sun but gasped

Dave held the box out, his fingers ready to pull it open and reveal the ring inside. He instead followed Celestia’s gaze and looked up in time to see the moon moving to block the sun, the eclipse forming right before his eyes

The busy streets of Canterlot paused to look up at the sky, the entire city gasping and whispering as the moon fully blocked the sun and left a burning ring of light in the sky. Celestia frowned in confusion again but her eyes widened as words began to appear in the eclipse. A question burned into the ring of fire

Princess Celestia, will you marry me?

The princess of the sun read the words before her head slowly turned to look at Dave, his hands holding out a box that he slowly opened to reveal the elegant gem within. Celestia covered her gasp with her hooves, her eyes widened as she saw the diamond look back at her

“Well?” Dave said nervously, his hands shaking slightly as Celestia dropped her hooves and her eyes returned to normal size. Dave’s heart stopped as Celestia looked up at him with tears in her eyes

Did Celestia hate it? Did she think this was too late or too soon? Was there something wrong with the ring? Dave kept sending the same questions through his mind as Celestia slowly shook her head

“Stupid question,” the alicorn sighed, dropping her head as a huge smile spread across her face. “OF COURSE!” she screamed as she leapt forwards and tackled Dave, wrapping her hooves around his neck as she kissed him

The words on the eclipse disappeared before the word ‘yes’ appeared and caused the entire city to cheer and yell congratulations towards the castle. The chefs and servants also cheered and danced as they heard the loud roar of appeal. Even the guards raised their hooves in the air with a cheer before they quickly regained their composure

Dave managed to laugh as Celestia finally released him, “You had me worried for a minute there!” he panted as he pulled the ring free from its silk prison

Celestia’s smile grew as Dave placed a hand on her cheek and placed the ring on her horn, gently guiding it down until it rested an inch from her head. The gold band hugged Celestia’s horn whilst it allowed the diamond to stand out and sparkle in the sunlight

Chapter 45

Battering Ram gawped as the eclipse passed, the cheers from the ponies of Canterlot was loud even from his position in the castle courtyard. The earth pony frowned as he heard slow hoovesteps coming from behind him, the time between each one were almost exact

“So your son has finally proposed,” Battering Ram sighed as Strong Shield walked over and sat next to him. “In all honesty I would not want to be him tonight, I fear the princess may break his pelvis”

Strong Shield snorted in agreement, “Odio came and told me you were here, not to mention you lost your temper again and blurted out our previous meetings”

“Meetings?” Battering Ram growled, “We were basically brothers, Flux was basically my sister and you didn’t care about killing us both”

“You were killing ponies and using their body parts to make robotic slaves,” Strong Shield glared up at Battering Ram. “If it gets out that I stopped it then I would get medals and a nice country home”

Battering Ram laughed, “Yeah and you hate that don’t you?” he sighed, “But it would mean some of Puppetmaster’s ideology getting out”

“Risking another catastrophe,” Strong Shield shook his head as his eye scanned the floor. “You do realize that I could tell Princess Luna the truth and have you and Flux hunted like a wild dog for the rest of your lives”

Battering Ram smirked, “We go down and you get labelled a hero”

“Alright the cover story is you were a private and you constantly disagreed with me, eventually getting angry enough to try and fight me,” Strong Shield said quickly. “But I won and kicked you out”

The pair looked up at they heard a flapping of wings and saw Luna slowly descending, Battering Ram nervously turned to Strong Shield. “By the way, she kissed me and I don’t know what to do”

“Do you want to be with her?” Strong Shield narrowed his eye

Battering Ram quickly shook his head, “You know I can’t settle down!”

“Well you are lucky I can drag you out of this,” Flux sighed as she landed silently beside the large earth pony, gaining a confused stare from Ram. “Don’t ask, Strong Shield managed to inform me that you were here and needed to leave”

The trio shared uneasy glances but settled down into their own disguises as Luna finally landed, tipping her head to each of the ponies. “Hello Strong Shield, Battering Ram and… may you introduce yourself?”

Flux bowed graciously, “Your majesty, my name is Flux and I apologize if my brother has been giving you any trouble”

“Not at all, he has been very kind and I enjoy his company,” Luna smiled to Battering Ram, his eyes quickly darted to the floor

Strong Shield stood up with a grunt, “Well I hope you take him off the castle premises, he is a disgrace to the guards and no matter how much he has matured, and he is not welcome”

Flux held back a sneer as she nodded, “I know my brother has a temper and he still regrets trying to attack you all those years ago”

Luna frowned, “I heard that Battering Ram did fight with Strong Shield, but the guards are a tough group to get into, both mentally and physically”

“It was just a good thing I could incapacitate you before you did something really foolish,” Strong Shield shook his head. “The guards require a certain amount of discipline and should always stick to the rules”

“Like what you did when Dave ran away that one time?” Luna glared at the unicorn, “You knocked out Captain Shining Armour, attacked four guards and kidnapped Princess Celestia”

Strong Shield glared in response, Flux and Battering Ram both glanced between the intimidating ponies. Luna’s royal pose dwarfed Strong Shield but his scared eye made him look a lot more experienced and intimidating

Calmly, Strong Shield nodded, “I was sacked for that don’t forget”

Luna lost her glare as she looked back at Battering Ram, replacing her previous expression with a kind smile. “So are there any other family members living in Canterlot?” she asked, Battering Ram’s unusually nervous glancing was replaced with a warm smile

“My ma and pa both lived out in the country, so did my family before them, on a small farm miles from any village,” the huge earth pony sat down as he smiled to himself. “My ma was the nicest pony you could meet, she always lent a helping hoof whilst my pa could plough three acres in one go without breaking a sweat”

Flux smiled slightly as she looked over at Strong Shield, the unicorn glanced at her before quickly looking away, a small sigh escaping his lips. “That sounds nice,” Luna nodded, “I don’t suppose you have a wife or marefriend do you?”

Battering Ram chuckled, “No, I don’t”

“So no kids?”

Flux and Strong Shield both went wide-eyed at Luna’s question. The Pegasus looked down at Battering Ram, his head lowered as his smile disappeared and was replaced with the start of a snarl. “No” he muttered quietly, a faint tone of guilt in his voice

Strong Shield looked at Luna, his eye showing an unusual trace of fear as he quickly shook his head, begging the princess to drop the subject like a venomous spider

But, Luna was still annoyed at the ex-guard for his previous comment so ignored his silent warning. “Well have you ever though about it?”

Battering Ram’s eyes rolled up to glare at Luna as his body visibly shook with a suppressed rage, his muscles stiffening to a point where his body almost seemed to swell. “It crossed my mind at a point,” he snarled, failing to keep his hatred from bubbling over

Luna put on a badly timed smile, obviously missing the various signals for her to shut up. “Well what stopped you?”

The princess only had time to change her facial expression from happy to shocked as the huge earth pony got to his hooves and raised one of his powerful arms to strike the dark alicorn. Strong Shield and Flux both shot to their hooves and grabbed the hoof, placing their entire strength into holding the hoof still

“ME!” Battering Ram yelled, “I’m a hybrid of hybrids, I shouldn’t be allowed to exist but I do and for that I am cursed with being the end of my family tree, the end result of bad choices”

Battering Ram effortlessly shook off Shield and Flux as he slammed his hoof into the ground, causing a huge crack to emerge. Luna looked at the earth pony as his eyes made her shiver, the desire to hurt her obvious, even though he knew his attack would be futile

“I can’t have kids because my genetics won’t allow it,” Battering Ram snarled, “I can’t settle down, I can’t raise a family… I can only survive and then die!” he spat as his eyes narrowed. “You kissed me in a way I have been kissed before… you want something”

Luna shook her head, her eyes darting to the calmer ponies behind the navy body of muscle. “I never intended to relay that kind of message, I just thought that you were nice and…”

“And you wanted to feel wanted for once,” Battering Ram growled, “Dave rejected you so you thought you would try to rut the first pony that even gave you a compliment”

The princess of the night glared at the earth pony, “How dare you accuse your princess of such ridiculous claims!”

Strong Shield rubbed his forehead as Flux almost seemed to wince ahead of what Battering Ram was going to do. The earth pony took a deep breath before his growling turned to a silence where his eyes measured the princess up

“You thought you lost Equestria’s love, so you tried to force it to love you, as a result you received banishment to the moon,” Battering Ram stepped forwards, looking down on the princess as her eyes widened a fraction. “You pushed away Dave’s love, fearing you would lose it, but when you saw how much Dave fought to stay with Celestia you saw your mistake and tried to correct it”

“Stop,” Luna said, her voice beginning to shake as she took a step back from the pony. Her horn glowed as she placed a zip across Battering Ram’s mouth

Ram hardly grunted as he forced his mouth open regardless, his jaws more powerful than Luna’s magic. “No,” he whispered threateningly, his mind making connections so he could deliver that final blow, the killing strike.

“Every single time you try to get Dave to love you, you push him further away, just like Equestria,” Battering Ram narrowed his eyes as he began to make the final statement that would strike the princess’ heart. “But unlike Equestria’s love, Dave won’t forgive you with the help of some magical trinkets, you will lose it and it will hurt you more than losing Equestria’s love… it will burn you up until you lose everything because you care about gaining Dave’s affection more than anything else”

“Shut up,” Luna almost begged, still attempting to hold onto the authority she had

“That eclipse was to show Dave how far you would go to make him happy,” Battering Ram ignored the angry glares he was getting from Strong Shield and Flux as he twisted the emotional dagger he had made. “The moon is partially responsible for the tide and you carelessly dragged the moon across the sky… what happened to coastal cities and villages? What happened to the residents in the sea that might have gotten washed ashore?”

“I-I,” Luna’s eyes began to water as her heart began to jerk and tear

“ODIO WAS RIGHT!” Battering Ram yelled down at the princess, “YOU WILL LOSE EVERYTHING BECAUSE OF YOUR NATURALLY SELFISH WAYS, YOU LOST YOUR SISTER FOR A THOUSAND YEARS AND YOU WILL LOSE DAVE FOREVER BECAUSE YOU CAN’T THINK ABOUT ANYPONY BUT YOURSELF!”

Luna’s eyes dropped as she burst into tears, her heart had been torn out and smashed. Battering Ram stood tall, his face as straight as Strong Shield’s. The unicorn and earth pony stared at each other, the expressions they exchanged during their final moments against each other when they knew that they would have to hurt each other so they could protect those that were closest to them

Flux walked over and slapped Battering Ram, “How dare you, I have never been more ashamed of you in my entire life”

Battering Ram looked back and saw the alicorn was curled into a ball, her wing covering her body as she cried into her hooves. The huge earth pony dropped his head in shame, “I… I’m so sorry,” he sighed as he ran for the castle gates and down into Canterlot

“We are lucky he just raised his hoof and didn’t try to lash out,” Flux turned her angry glare to Strong Shield, “The next time we meet will most likely be the last”

“We will end this,” Strong Shield spat, “I will see you dead before I allow that vault to be opened”

Flux opened her wings, moving her gaze to Luna as it turned apologetic. “What happened to us?” she sighed sadly as she took to the air in search of Battering Ram

Strong Shield shook his head, “We didn’t win, neither of us did,” he whispered to himself as he walked over to the alicorn and placed a hoof on her wing. “Princess Luna, don’t cry”

The alicorn receded from the touch, her body shaking as she cried. “He was right… EVERYPONY WAS!” Luna yelled, her voice shaking too much for her to use her Royal Canterlot voice. “My sister is probably being caressed by Dave and all I can think about is how it should be me getting married!”

Luna continued to sob whilst Strong Shield stared down at her. “I said don’t cry, that’s an order!” The unicorn barked at the whimpering alicorn. “You are upset, jealous, angry even, but you are a princess of Equestria so you should not be showing these emotions outside of your personal quarters!”

“I’m not like you! I can’t just bottle up my emotions and put them aside!” Luna returned to sobbing loudly, her mane still flowing gently as she lay on the ground

“You can because your sister can,” Strong Shield glared, “You know better than anypony what kind of trauma she went through during her pregnancy, crying herself to sleep because Dave wasn’t alive to be with her”

Luna pulled back her wing slightly to look up at Strong Shield, her sobbing reduced to a loud whimper. “So what?”

“You should have been crying too but you put on a brave face because it was what Celestia needed,” Strong Shield sighed, “I cut out my emotions because that is what was needed from me, and I don’t regret it even though I lost the one I love because of it”

Luna slowly sat up as Strong Shield took a breath to calm himself, the alicorn’s face was stained with tears as the unicorn gently placed his hoof under her chin. “What are you saying?”

“I’m saying be the pony that is needed, not the one that it is easier to be,” Strong Shield shook his head, “If you don’t do it for yourself then do it for others, do it for Dave, Celestia… for their son”

Luna shuddered, “I was going to tear his world apart… tear his family apart for my happiness”

She almost slipped back into tears but was stopped as Strong Shield spoke up again, “Nox loves his auntie, Celestia loves her sister, Equestria loves its princess and Dave… well Dave doesn't know anything”

Strong Shield and Luna both shared a short laugh before they fell into a silence. Luna took a few breaths before giving Strong Shield a determined nod and standing up straight and opening her wings. The princess’ face grew a smile as she took to the air and felt the warm rays of the sun against her wings and heard the partying from the streets of Canterlot

Author's Note

Hey guys, thanks for sticking with the story and I hope you are enjoying reading it as much as I have writing it. (Bit of a cliche thing to write but what the heck.)

Chapter 46

Strong Shield stepped into the castle, his eye glaring at the floor as he slammed the door behind him. Odio floated gently down from the roof and hovered around the unicorn’s head. “Well?” the fog asked impatiently

“Battering Ram and Flux have left and it means we will have to consider getting our flanks to Tartarus soon,” Strong Shield rubbed his chin as he looked up at the black smog above him. “Make sure Dave is ready, we will have to leave at a moments notice and we will end this”

Odio made a hoof using his fog and gave a salute, “Well yes sir!” the embodiment of hatred hummed before looking back at Strong Shield. “Why am I detecting a mixed set of reactions in this castle?”

Strong Shield frowned, “What do you mean?”

“You are angry, as is your ‘friends’,” Odio looked up at the roof, almost looking through the ceiling and walls at the various occupants in the castle. “Nox and Applebloom are having fun, Celestia is having a slightly more adult version of fun”

As the fog sighed it instantly made Strong Shield narrow his eye, “What about Dave? You missed him on purpose”

“He…” Odio shook the part of the fog that was the closest resemblance to his head. “He is the happiest he has been since… forever”

“And you are worried about ruining it?” Strong Shield grumbled, “Dave needs to realize that he has a duty and has to see it through!”

Odio sneered as a bolt of lightning crackled across him, “You placed that responsibility on him because you made a mistake”

Strong Shield just walked away as he quietly grumbled to himself, his face glaring at the floor as he disappeared from Odio’s sight. The spirit of hatred swirled around before seeping out through the tiny gaps in the castle door and floated up the outside of the white castle

The fog made fake gagging noises as he heard the partying still resonating from the city. His attention was interrupted as he heard the soft noise of children laughing, his burning eyes peeked over one of the large segments of castle to see Nox and Applebloom running around Canterlot garden

Odio snarled as he floated down towards the castle gardens, “Why are you two so happy?”

The colt and filly both stopped to look up at the black fog that loomed over them, Applebloom’s face almost filled with fear but was stopped as Nox hopped forwards with a beaming smile

“Hey Odio!” Nox smiled, “We were just playing around, wanna join?”

The floating red eyes quickly grew slim, “No, not really.” He turned to float away before a devious thought crossed his mind. “Should I? No, it will definitely get me destroyed”

Nox tilted his head, “What’s up? If you aren’t honest then others can’t help you”

“Well I was wondering… what is going to happen with you?” Odio hummed as he turned to stare at the grey alicorn. “I mean, you did jump a considerable age gap and who says it won’t happen again?”

Applebloom glowered at Odio as his fog seemed to swirl in curiosity, “What are ya getting at?”

Odio rolled over to look at Applebloom, “Well if he does suddenly jump to being about the age of… Applejack for example, why would he want to stay with a filly when he is a fully grown stallion that attracts plenty of mares?”

“Well Nox would… would,” Applebloom fell into a quiet silence as Odio allowed himself to smirk slightly

The prince stepped over and wrapped a wing around Applebloom, “I’ll wait!”

“Huh?” Odio gawped, “You would wait all those years for Applebloom to grow and develop while you sit here with your hoof up your ass?”

“My hoof up my what?” Nox’s face tightened in confusion before a smile broke out across his face. “But I am sure that Applebloom will be just as great as she is now!”

Applebloom smiled as she quietly nuzzled her cheek against Nox’s head, his smile continued to grow as he nuzzled her back. Odio fake-heaved again as he slowly turned around, “I’m gonna be sick,” he groaned

“Excuse me Uncle Odio but why are you so glum?” Nox asked, his face looking disheartened that the large evil fog seemed sad

“Why? Because everypony is finally getting everything sorted and I seem to be the only one that can see this all going wrong and everypony losing everything!” Odio groaned loudly before his eyes burst into large circles, “D-did you call me Uncle Odio?”

Nox nodded, his mane bouncing carelessly, “Well yeah! I heard my dad call you his ‘bro’ and that means brother right?”

Odio swirled slowly, his eyes scanning to floor and the surrounding trees as he hopped to find answers. “Well… we are best buddies,” the fog slowed to a halt as Nox stepped forwards with Applebloom beside him

“Well dad said you were irritating but he couldn’t see much point in having you around if you weren’t,” Nox chuckled at Odio’s confused glare. “He meant that you wouldn’t be his friend if you weren’t the pony… fog that you are!”

“But Dave has every right to kick me out, he can do it if he wanted to,” Odio sighed, ignoring Nox‘s previous comment. “He must think he owes me or something”

Applebloom picked up a small stone from the ground and threw it at Odio, the rock hardly moved the fog as it bounced into the ground but it managed to get Odio’s attention. “I think what Nox is trying to say is that Dave knows what you are like and doesn’t mind that because he is your friend”

“But why would Dave protect me unless he thinks he can get something?” Odio turned his gaze to the earth pony. “Everypony else seems to think I am around to help and nothing else”

“Because he is your friend,” Nox sighed, his cheery attitude seemingly faded. “I heard that my dad… died to protect somepony and that you were the one that killed him”

Odio snorted, “Yeah, and?”

“He forgave you and fought on your behalf to let you stay,” Nox frowned in return to the fog. “I would be happy to help somepony that did that for me”

“W-well I would be but…” Odio paused, his fog freezing as his eyes slowly closed. “I have been a massive idiot and it took a child to help me realize it… what a cliché”

Applebloom looked away from the fog as it began mumbling to itself, “Hey Nox, are we gonna try and get ya cutie mark again?”

Nox nodded before he hurried over to stand opposite Applebloom with a determined stare, “Alright, I’m ready!”

Odio floated aside as Applebloom picked up an apple and threw it up into the air, the alicorn’s horn glowed as he focused his eyes on the round fruit. His tongue poked between his lips as he concentrated and forced his magic towards his target

Applebloom ducked behind a tree as the apple froze in midair, its skin vibrating as it slowly failed to keep its shape. Odio’s eyes widened as he quickly retreated behind another tree, his fog compacting so nothing was exposed

Nox grunted as the apple exploded, the chunks only flying a few inches apart before they were sucked into a growing hole, the fallen leaves quickly being swept into the whirlpool. He panted as the hole disappeared and the colt sunk to his belly, smiling as Applebloom cheered

“I managed to get it this time!” Nox quietly cheered, he began laughing as Applebloom ran over and gave him a celebratory hug. Odio slowly left his hiding spot as he stared at the spot where the apple previously was

“T-that was a black hole,” Odio chuckled as he smiled at Nox. “You mom moves the sun and your aunt moves the moon, so it makes sense for you to have something space related”

Nox looked up at the giggling fog, “What is a black hole?”

“It is thought to be a gateway into other places but that’s nonsense,” Odio floated through the spot where the fog was and laughed again. “Nox means night, at night you can see space… now it makes sense”

Applebloom ignored the fog as she rubbed her face against Nox’s mane, “I knew we could get it eventually!”

“Yeah!” Nox exclaimed as he began to arch his neck, his eyes moving to look at his flank. “Aww…” he sighed as his flank remained completely grey

The earth pony also sighed in disappointment as she saw the blank area where Nox’s cutie mark should be. “Maybe ya didn’t do it right… or maybe your talent has to do with meteors!”

“Meteors?” Odio gawped, his eyes filling with wonder as he began inspecting Nox. “Well I dare say you might just have a talent in everything space related… if you inherited your dad’s love for doing too much without realizing it”

“But I thought that if I knew what my talent was then I get my cutie mark,” Nox sighed as he glanced at his clear rear before standing up

Odio shook his head, “you have to realize, not force it” the fog rolled over to Applebloom. “She might be good at lots of things but she will eventually realize the extent of her abilities and then poof! Cutie mark achieved”

“So I just have to wait?” Nox groaned

“But you are immortal so…” Odio was cut off as Applebloom threw her hooves around Nox
“Don’t worry, I am positive that your cutie mark will be great!” the enthusiastic pony smiled
Odio shook in annoyance, “Don’t mind the giant fog of death, just interrupt me mid-senten…”

Nox smiled up at Odio, “Do you know where my dad is?”

“I don’t know why I bother,” Odio grumbled to himself before returning the smile. “I imagine he would be with Celestia… seeing as he proposed!”

Applebloom and Nox both gasped before cheering and bouncing on the spot, both the children hardly able to contain their excitement. The fog extended a pair of tendrils as he smiled at Nox

“Celebratory hug?” Odio asked, his answer returned in the form of Nox leaping at him. The alicorn flew through the fog and smacked into the tree behind the fog of hate. “Oh… well that was unfortunate, I am going before I get blamed,” Odio sighed as he quickly whizzed away and left Nox to rub his sore head

Chapter 47

Odio quickly floated down the corridor, his eyes separated as they individually looked through keyholes and up and down stairs. The fog heard a loud giggling from the barracks so he diverted to investigate the noise

The barracks were full of guards on break, various drinks were scattered around the new central table as the ponies looked like they were celebrating a private party. But now the guards were sitting uncomfortably, some with hooves covering their ears. A couple of guards that usually guarded Celestia’s quarters had their earplugs in

“What’s going on?” Odio asked as the guards glanced at the captain’s office. The loud giggling turned to a loud moan before turning into a groan of protest. “Is that… Cadence and Shining?”

One of the guards nodded as he kept his eyes closed, trying to suppress the noise. “It turns out she didn’t put a silence spell around the room”

“At first it was funny, but now…” Another guard protested, his nerves obviously at the end of their tethers. “I just want it to stop!” he began to sob as another guard patted his back reassuringly

“Considering that she is the princess of love and another princess has just gotten engaged, she must be feeling the effects” Odio winced as a loud voice filled the air

“COME ON SHINING!” Cadence moaned in lust. “PLOUGH THE FIELDS, STORM THE CASTLE AND PREPARE THE FEAST!”

A guard vomited before passing out into his half-digested lunch. A group of guards fought for who could carry the comatose unicorn out of the barracks and anywhere that wasn’t near the busy couple

Odio moved a tendril of fog over to the door in an effort to apply his own silencing spell, his fog almost froze as a pink barrier suddenly appeared. The guards all exchanged nervous and scared glances as they realized that the action was already behind one silencing spell

“Umm… I think I smell a fire outside,” Odio whimpered as he held the barracks doors open and allowed the guards to swarm out of the barracks, some leaving their helmets behind in their haste

Strong Shield appeared from the corridor that lead to the various sleeping quarters, his eye looking around at the mess caused by the fleeing guards. “Well it is nice to know all my time spent training them was worth it,” he groaned sarcastically

Odio began inching for the door as he heard another wave of moaning coming on, “Are you sure you want to be here when Shining… dies?”

“My bunker has more than enough quiet spots,” Strong Shield winced as Cadence screamed again

The pink alicorn definitely liked to make her pleasure obvious as she moaned loudly, “this is almost as great as that time we were in Twilight’s room!”

Odio and Strong Shield exchanged disgusted looks, “I’m gonna go now!” Odio nodded to Strong Shield before they both went their separate ways in search of quiet

Meanwhile…

Dave slipped his arms back into his trenchcoat as Celestia continued to lick the cake icing from his ear. “Whoa, ok I know you are good at that but can you please, Ahahaha ooookay!”

Celestia smiled deviously as Dave stood up and extended a hand to her, her eyes still staring at a piece of icing below Dave’s nose. “You still have a bit on your face,” she whispered as Dave placed his hand to his cheek

“Where is…” Dave was cut off as Celestia pounced forwards and licked the icing up before sharing it with Dave during a kiss. After a moment of indulgence, the pair pulled apart and Celestia rolled her eyes up to look at the oval gemstone that decorated her horn

“I will have to think of a way to really show my happiness,” Celestia purred as she nuzzled against Dave’s chest. The human gained a smile as he held Celestia in a tight hug, his hand gently stroking her mane

“So what was that?” Dave smirked as he pointed at the picnic blanket that was thoroughly wrinkled. “I assume that was just your way of saying yes?”

Celestia winked before using her magic to replace everything into the large picnic basket before using a final spell to teleport the basket away. She stretched her wings as she gave them a quick flap to prepare for flight

“Well I suppose I have to thank my sister for that little display,” Celestia smiled as she began to flap her large wings and took to the air. “I will see you later my love!”

Dave waved as Celestia flew away, his smile fading as he realized he was still left alone at the top of a mountain. “Oh that was just sneaky,” Dave chuckled as he walked over to the edge and looked down at the rocky slope

He placed his foot on what looked like a solid and secure rock. It wasn’t

“Ah crap,” Dave had time to whisper before the rest of his body began to tumble forwards, the dragonscales that made up his trenchcoat protected from any cuts or sharp rocks but didn’t protect Dave from bouncing like a rag doll tumbling down stairs

Dave hit the mountain hard before bouncing off the edge and began falling towards Canterlot castle. He managed to get a quick glimpse of one of the roofs before he slammed into it, completely winding him

“Well… that’s one way,” Dave groaned as he forced himself to his feet, brushing the dirt from himself as he looked around. A tower was connected to the roof Dave was on and one of the windows was conveniently open. As Dave began to walk towards the tower, one of the roof tiles slipped and Dave began tumbling again

Dave bounced against the tiles before he began falling through the air again. Dave didn’t bother screaming as he fell. “This is some bullshit,” he sighed as he could only see the open sky and hear the wind rushing past his ears

Luckily, Dave fell into something slightly softer than a building or a mountain as he plummeted into a tree and snapped most of the branches on the way down. He was treated to a brief fall free from twigs and leaves before he smashed into the ground, moaning in pain as he pushed himself into a seated position against the tree

“Dad?” Nox asked as he sat against a tree opposite Dave, his tree had a large scar where his horn and pierced the wood. Dave looked at his tree and saw most of the bark had fallen off, probably due to him slamming into the top of the tree

“We aren’t having much luck with trees are we?” Dave chuckled as his son slowly nodded. “Did you see the eclipse?”

Nox shook his head, “Me and Applebloom were having dinner before coming outside to play, we missed it by a few minutes I think”

Dave looked around the castle gardens from his resting spot, “Where is Applebloom?”

“She went to get the nurse just in case I hurt myself,” Nox shrugged as he looked back at the split tree. “I think the tree needs more attention than me”

Dave got to his feet as he walked over to Nox and sat beside the grey alicorn. “Listen son, I have been meaning to talk to you about your… relationship”

“I already told Uncle Odio that I would wait for Applebloom if I suddenly age again,” Nox’s smile faded as Dave burst out laughing. “What is it dad?”

“HA HA!” Dave wiped a tear from his eye. “I have got to use that Uncle Odio line at some point!”

“Well I can assume that you are feeling well,” Nurse Redheart walked past the healthy human as she sat in front of Nox, removing her saddlebag as she looked into the colt’s eyes. “Do you feel dizzy or nauseous?”

Nox shook his head as much as he could from his place between the nurses white hooves. “No I feel fine, but the tree might need somepony to look at it”

“I’m a nurse not a gardener,” Nurse Redheart stated as she picked up he saddlebag again

“Hey Redheart, are you alright?” Dave tilted his head at the agitated nurse. “Is something wrong?”

The earth pony sighed as she slowly nodded, “I have nearly every guard in the medical wing with nausea, vomiting or headaches”

“Is there a bug or virus going around?” Dave frowned as Redheart shrugged. “How did they all get sick then?”

“Well one guard told me not to go into the barracks with out earplugs,” Nurse Redheart tapped her chin before shrugging

Dave hummed for a few moments before his eyes popped open, “I’m guessing Shining Armour isn't one of the guards in the medical wing”

Redheart shook her head with a confused frown, “No, he was the only one that didn't show up even though he was supposed to be in the barracks”

The human climbed to his feet as he rubbed his neck. “Yeah, you might want to avoid the barracks for today… Shining Armour’s office might be a bit… damp”

Nox and Applebloom shrugged at each other whilst Nurse Redheart rolled her eyes. “Oh dear, please don’t tell me that Princess Cadence is acting strange because of the increased amount of love from everypony”

“Yeah… kinda my fault,” Dave shrugged as he slowly backed away from the frowning mare. “Alright Nox I will see you later son, bye Applebloom and Nurse Redheart”

The tired nurse and confused children waved Dave away before he made his way back into the castle, his legs getting heavier as his stomach growled. “What? I just ate a load at the picnic,” Dave hummed before he poked his stomach and felt the sharp key move so the food could leave his stomach and continued being digested

As Dave poked his stomach, he didn’t notice the princess of the night walk around the corner, a loud yawn escaping her mouth. The pair bumped into each other and froze as they looked at the creature they crashed into

“H-hey Luna,” Dave smiled as he quickly removed his hand from his stomach

“Hello Dave,” Luna bowed her head slightly. “I take it my sister was pleased with your proposal?”

Dave nodded as a large smile spread across his lips, “It was amazing, she loved the engagement ring I got her and that eclipse was amazing! If there is anything I can do for you just say it,” Dave’s face waned slightly as he remembered what happened the last time he brought up repayment with this particular mare

Luna’s face remained smiling but in her mind she argued with herself, trying to decide between sticking with Strong Shield’s advice or following her heart. “T-there is one thing you can do…” Luna started, her heart beating faster as she looked at Dave, his lips only a few feet away

“Umm… what is it?” Dave asked, fearing the answer

“I want you…” Luna started, her muscles tensing as she held herself back from pouncing forwards and wrapping her hooves around the human’s neck. “I want you to make sure my sister is happy,” Luna’s heart stopped pounding as it turned to a heavy weight in her heart

Dave nodded with a reassured smile, “Of course I will, what else would I do?” Dave joked as he let out a brief snort. He looked at Luna and saw she still had a smile across her face, “So what are you doing?”

“I was going to start heading for lunch,” Luna rubbed her tired eyes. “That eclipse really made me really tired… it feels strange”

“Well I am still a bit hungry,” Dave admitted as he scratched behind his ear. “Do you mind if I come along and we can spend some time together? To say thanks of course”

Luna’s smile became real and removed any traces that she had been wearing a fake one all along. “I would like that”

Chapter 48

Dave and Luna both entered the dining room, the servant responsible for making Luna’s meals was already waiting for the princess to walk in, her eyes widened as Dave entered shortly after

“Princess Luna, would you like your usual meal?” The servant bowed, she nodded as the princess of the night ordered her usual. “And what would you require Prince Dave?”

“I will just have some… pancakes,” Dave smiled to the servant as she walked to the door, pausing to look at Dave

“And congratulations on your engagement,” the servant gave a final bow as she trotted away, leaving Dave with a small grin he couldn’t hide

Dave sat down in his usual seat and looked down the table at Luna, “I still can’t thank you enough for that eclipse”

Luna smiled, “It was no problem, and I would do anything to make my sister happy”

Both the human and the alicorn stopped their conversation as the servant returned with their meals. The chefs obviously had been quick in making these meals as the portions seemed slightly smaller, probably due to the chefs wanting to go into the city and join the celebrations

“Excuse me…” Dave turned to look at the servant, the mare bowed as she looked at Dave. “But can you send a message to Princess Celestia telling her that I will be with her about midnight?”

The servant bowed, “Certainly Prince Dave”

“And then you can take the rest of the day off along with the chefs,” Dave smiled as the mare suddenly beamed before she regained her composure

“Thank you Dav… I mean,” the mare smiled as Dave waved it off and she almost skipped out of the dining room

Dave shuffled in his seat as he picked up his fork, preparing to tuck into his light meal. His eyes wandered over to Luna, her eyes watching him carefully. “Have I done something wrong?”

“I was just wondering who will wash up our plates,” Luna looked down at her waffles. “Normally the chefs clean these up as well”

“I’ll do it,” Dave shrugged as he began to break a piece of his pancake away from the others. His pancake was skewered by his fork and was halfway to his mouth when he caught Luna looking at him again. “Do you want my pancakes?”

Luna shook her head, “No, nothing like that but… why would you do something as small as wash up some plates and cutlery when we have servants that are more than happy to do that?”

“If I can do it myself then I won’t allow servants to miss out on festivities that will happen once in their lifetimes,” Dave finally managed to get the pancake into his mouth and he began chewing as he twirled the fork around his fingers. “I’m a nice guy like that”

The princess of the night finally levitated up her knife and fork, intending to start on her meal but had the wave of feeling that made her instinctively drop her cutlery and begin raising the moon. Dave paused his eating as the room turned dark, the lights flicking on almost instantly, casting a warm glow around the room

Dave settled into his seat as he placed another piece of pancake into his mouth. “Well at least this day is finally winding down…” Dave muttered as he imagined what the citizens of Canterlot must have been doing

Dave began poking at his pancakes again as a loud thud and smash caused his daydreaming to shatter. His eyes scanned the room before he noticed Luna was sprawled across the table, her plate had fallen on the floor, her normally flowing mane had become still, and flat, the normally starry appearance had fallen to a plain dull blue

“LUNA!” Dave gasped as he rushed over, pushing his large chair aside as he ran to the alicorn’s side. His hands grasped her shoulders as she remained limp, offering no resistance as Dave picked her back up and placed a hand to her face

Dave scanned Luna’s body, looking for any sign of injury or other problems. Luna began to tip forwards again so Dave swept her up in his arms and gently laid her on the ground, leaning over her as his hands brushed her strangely flat mane aside

“Come on Luna, don’t do this to me!” Dave panted as his fears became more and more worrying. His hand stroked the alicorn’s neck as he searched for a pulse, his mind put slightly at ease when he felt a slight pulse

The panicked human placed his hands on either side of Luna’s face. “What’s wrong? You were fine before you raised the moon, you do that every day!” Dave’s face dropped as his head began to slowly move back and forth. “No, no, no, no, don’t tell me that the eclipse did this”

Dave picked Luna up as he wrapped his arms around her, “You shouldn't have done it if you couldn't handle it.” Dave buried his face into Luna’s neck begging to the weak pulse he could feel throbbing against his cheek. “Please don’t leave me, I won’t have you suffer because of me… I want you to be happy”

Luna’s wing twitched as her eyes fluttered open, a small groan began to escape her but she stopped herself as she felt Dave’s arms around her. She looked down from her position and saw the human was not only holding her, but stoking her as well

“I should have checked what you were doing,” Dave whimpered, his hands cradling Luna’s limp body as he rocked back and forth. “I should have thought about you more, I should have cared, I should of…”

Luna groaned as she raised her head, her tired body hardly giving her enough strength to lift her eyes to look at Dave. The human pulled his head back to look at Luna, his arms still holding her as his fingers moved from her neck to the start of her mane as he supported her head

The princess of the night felt broken, her body felt too heavy for her to move. She rested her head, trusting Dave to keep it in place as she used all her energy to try to move her lips, to form words

“D-Dave… don’t…” Luna’s tongue felt large and heavy behind her teeth. A small part of her almost fearing it would roll back and choke her. She continued to focus her efforts on trying to reassure Dave but her lips were stopped as Dave gently placed his hand on her cheek

Dave shook his head as he smiled down at Luna. “Don’t tell me not to worry…” Dave whispered as he gently placed his lips against Luna’s, the princess did not have the energy to gasp, recoil in shock or kiss back at the same time.

So she focused her energy on trying to kiss back. Luna’s lips were still void of feeling except the heaviness that pinned her body down. She allowed her eyes to drop, she ignored the rest of her body as she gave a final burst that would have completely pressed her lips against Dave’s

Dave felt the princess’ lips twitch before slowly but gradually returning the feeling he was giving

To Luna, the kiss felt like the chains and doubts around her mind had been lifted. Her heart began to race as her lips seemed to draw power and energy from the being that was embracing her, his hand that had been resting on her cheek had moved behind her back and was now pulling her body towards his, closing the small gap between their bodies but breaking down the wall that had separated them from being this way

Luna used her new-found energy to lift her hoof and place it around Dave’s head, allowing herself to pull back for a short breath before returning for a larger kiss, drawing more power and more happiness as she allowed her joy to fill her body

Slowly Luna pulled away, only enough so her lips could move but her breaths were still being shared with Dave’s. “I love you Dave”

Dave’s eyes slowly opened as he gazed into Luna’s teal eyes, his fears pushed aside as a small smile spread across his lips. “I love you Luna”

Chapter 49

Dave slowly awoke, his eye slowly adjusting to the low light in the room as he moved a hand up from behind the bedcovers to wipe the sleep from his eyes. His hand returned under the covers but moved across and around the alicorn that rested next to him

Luna flinched as the arm rested around her, but as she felt the skin against her fur she instantly shuffled forwards and further into Dave’s embrace. The princess of the night opened her eyes and looked up at Dave, her face full of wonder, probably wondering if this was a dream or if it was reality

Dave allowed a small smile to creep across his face as Luna lowered her gaze to look at Dave’s chest. Her eyes scanned his body as she placed her hooves on his shoulders and gently rolled him onto his back, the alicorn positioning herself on top of him as she stared down at him

The princess of the night laid down on Dave’s chest and held her head above Dave’s staring down into his eyes. Luna’s mane had finally returned to its normal flowing state, her strength had recovered and had never felt happier than she did now

Dave could sense Luna’s hesitation so he decided to lift his head and kiss the dark alicorn, gently raising his hands to hold her body as she guided her tongue into his mouth

Reluctantly, the princess pulled her head back slowly, allowing a strand of saliva to connect her to Dave before it eventually broke. She shuddered as she saw an emotion lurking behind Dave’s calm eyes

“Do you regret staying the night?” Luna whispered, for no reason other than the fear that she might hear an answer she would have preferred not to hear

“No,” Dave whispered in response, his hands moving to place them around Luna’s body and rested them against her soft wings

Luna shuffled down so she could rest her head on Dave’s chest, “So why do I get the feeling you hate me?”

The human instantly brought a hand to Luna’s face and gently turned it to look at him. “I don’t hate you… I hate myself”

The princess nuzzled Dave’s neck reassuringly, “Why do you hate yourself? You have no reason to”

“But yesterday,” Dave shut his eyes as he gave Luna a gentle squeeze. “Yesterday I proposed to Celestia and spent the night in her sister’s room… I just feel so guilty”

Luna licked Dave’s cheek, “You have nothing to feel guilty for!” Luna almost growled. “I needed help and you carried me to my chambers, you stayed the night just in case I needed any further help”

Dave shook his head, “What if we couldn’t control ourselves? What if we had slept together?” Dave looked down at himself in disgust. “I would never sleep with anypony else after I just proposed to the mare I love”

“Celestia said that she wouldn’t mind if we were to get together,” Luna lifted her head again. “Do you love me?”

Dave sighed, “Yes, you know I do, but…” the human moved to sit up and the alicorn moved with him, staying so her chest rested against his. “But this is too soon, we shouldn’t even be like this until after the wedding”

“I know this is your special moment with my sister,” Luna sighed sadly, but she continued to wrap her hooves around Dave’s neck as she kissed his head. “We don’t have to do anything… major, until you and my sister are happily married”

The human slowly sighed as Luna rubbed her chin against Dave’s brown hair, his face rested against her soft fur as he softly kissed her neck. “I need to use the bathroom quickly,” Dave whispered, allowing Luna to move as he climbed out of bed and carefully made his way through the dark room

Dave stepped into the bathroom and turned on the light, he looked back at the bed to see Luna looking at him, a small smile on her face. Turning back to the bathroom, Dave closed the door behind him and looked around the familiar yet alien bathroom

The layout was almost identical to Celestia’s bathroom except the large pool did not have a waterfall, but instead had a deep amount of water and had a small rain effect falling from the ceiling. The water droplets did not make a sound as they fell into the water, but the pool continued to ripple as the drops splashed against its surface

A large marble block rested beneath a long mirror that stretched around the room. The marble block had a washbasin cut into it, two grand silver taps protruded from the clean stone whilst various bathroom items were made from ebony and rested either side of the basin, depending on importance

Dave walked over to the silver taps and stood staring at himself in the mirror as the washbasin filled with warm water. Dave waited until the basin had almost completely filled before submerging his face, holding his breath for a few moments before pulling himself out

He pulled the plug out of the basin as he grabbed a nearby towel to wipe his face, his eyes slowly moving to look at the ebony hairbrush besides the sink. He picked it up in the same way he did with the golden hairbrush in Celestia’s bathroom, twirling it around his fingers as he aimed the sharp point at his hand

However, this time Dave stopped, his fist clenched the brush before he placed it back down and placed his hands on the flat marble. His glare then moved to the middle finger on his left hand, his other hand almost instinctively grabbing it as he braced himself

Twist

Dave grunted as his finger refused to obey any commands he tried to place into it, only being responded with a dull pain that soon subsided in his mind. Dave released his finger as his healing forced it back to normal, in a slightly faster motion than before

“What are you doing?” Luna shuddered as she stood at the entrance to the bathroom, staring at the human. She watched Dave break his own finger for no reason and was more afraid of what he was going to himself rather than what he might do to her

“Luna I…” Dave looked at his hands before he dropped to the floor, his hands falling uselessly to his sides. “I don’t have to fear death but I can still experience the pain… but it doesn’t… feel normal”

The alicorn stepped into the room and wrapped her wings around Dave. “Immortality is both a blessing and a curse, my sister and I will help you adjust… just stop doing this”

Dave looked at his previously broken finger, “Don’t worry… self harming doesn’t seem to have the same effect when you can heal,” Dave chuckled as he placed his arms around Luna. “What are we going to tell Celestia?”

“The truth,” Luna responded almost instantly. “If we tell her everything then she can make the right choice, I know she will”

Dave pulled his head back to gaze into Luna’s eyes, “What if she tells you to not love me anymore?”

Luna shuddered, almost fearful that her sister would condemn such a fate on her for almost ruining her perfect engagement. “I love my sister more than anything… so I will stop loving you if she really means it”

“Well she said that she would be fine with this… but I guess she was counting on it happening in about a hundred years,” Dave groaned as he slowly pushed himself to his feet. “Should we ask her to help you lower the moon?”

Luna shook her head, “No, I feel much better after my sleep and another one will bring me back to normal”

Dave paused as he looked at the princess of the night, his stare eventually caused her to smile. “What’s up?”

“It’s nothing…” Luna’s smile grew again as she stood on her hind legs and wrapped her hooves around Dave’s neck. “You really do care about me!”

“And you think I didn’t?” Dave chuckled, “I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t feel something for you.” Dave held Luna in return before she slowly released him and began walking to the door. “Where are you going?”

Luna gave a small reassuring smile to Dave before she frowned to herself. “We can wait until the sun has been raised… then we have to go see my sister”

“I suppose we do,” Dave sighed. “I’ll start getting dressed, let me know when you are ready”

Later…

Luna’s legs wobbled as she lowered the moon, her weight suddenly supported as Dave placed his arms around her, making sure that she did not fall. The princess nuzzled Dave’s cheek and allowed him to slowly move away

“Alright… are you ready for this?” Dave asked as he tucked his hands into his pockets. He stayed close to the dark alicorn as they stepped out of the royal chambers. The guards exchanged confused glances as Dave walked past, the princess walking close beside him

The human smiled to the alicorn before he glared at his feet, his fears and concerns grew with every step he took down the corridors. The alicorn smiled back reassuringly before she gently placed her head beside Dave’s arm

As a servant came around the corner, the princess pulled away but a soft hand reached around her neck as Dave held her close again. The servant bowed, her eyes quickly darting to the hand that rested on Luna

Dave felt his stomach tighten, the key inside digging into his innards as he flinched. Luna felt the jolt and turned to look at Dave. “Are you ok? Do you want to stop?”

“No… it is for the best we do this now,” Dave nodded before he continued walking, ignoring the gold spikes that poked around in his stomach

The couple walked up the final set of stairs that took them to Celestia’s quarters. The guards standing outside had to suppress their curious glances as Luna walked ahead of Dave and knocked on the golden door

“Come in,” Celestia called, the sound of shuffling and agitation apparent as Luna stepped in, followed closely by Dave

“Ah crap,” Dave muttered under his breath as he saw the burnt-out candles around the room. His hands covered his face as he moved to sit on the bed. Celestia sat up, moving the covers away slowly as she removed the lacy stockings she was wearing to surprise Dave with last night

Dave spotted Celestia removing the lingerie and it only made his heart drop even further. The princess of the sun finally removed the clothes as she moved to sit beside Dave, her wing wrapping around him

“What’s happened?” Celestia asked in a concerned tone, her eyes darting from the depressed Dave to the alicorn that had her ears flat against her head

Dave wrapped his arms around Celestia’s neck, “I’m sorry I didn’t show up last night,” he sighed sadly

“I was wondering where you got to but…” Celestia was cut off as Luna stepped over and took a deep breath

Dave released Celestia as he looked at Luna. “Dave was… with me last night,” Luna took a deep breath as Celestia’s curious frown slowly disappeared and was exchanged with an expression of shock

“You… and Dave?” Celestia looked at Dave and saw his small nod. Her eyes moved back to Luna as she frowned. “The happiest day of my life and you have to get your attention by sleeping with my fiancée?!”

Luna shook her head, “We didn’t…”

“Why do you always do this?” Celestia ignored Luna’s whimper, “Just let me have one thing to myself for ONE DAY!”

“Celestia,” Dave placed his hand on the white alicorn’s chin, slowing gaining her attention as her frown disappeared. “We didn’t sleep together, I would never do that to you, and neither would Luna”

Celestia shot a glance at the guilt-stricken Luna, “Then what did happen?”

“Luna used a lot of energy to do that eclipse for us,” Dave sighed as he looked at Luna. “She passed out when she raised the moon and I looked after her… but…”

“But what?” Celestia narrowed her eyes at Dave. “What else happened?”

Dave scratched the back of his neck as he glanced at Luna, “We kinda made out and… we were wondering if you would mind us… being together as well”

Celestia released Dave as she glared at Luna, “Is my sister a good kisser?”

“Well not as good as…” Dave paused as he looked between the two princesses before sighing in defeat. “Yes she was”

Celestia stood up and marched over to Luna, staring at her as both princesses stood tall and looked at each other

“Sister I…” Luna was cut off as Celestia lowered her head and kissed her younger sister, placing a hoof around her so she could not wiggle free

Dave gawped before his heart began to race. “Should I stop this or… join in?” he whispered to himself as Luna actually began to return the motion that she was receiving

Finally, Celestia pulled her tongue out of Luna’s mouth as she presented it to Dave. “I reckon that got his blood pumping”

“Huh?” Dave shook his head in confusion, the blood in his body was relocated from his head to below his belt. “What’s going on?”

Celestia placed her hoof on her chest, a smug grin across her face, “I knew Luna would pass out and I knew you would probably go for an extra snack even though we had our picnic”

Luna’s eyes popped open, “YOU PLANNED THIS?”

“Kinda,” Celestia smiled. “I am more than happy with this, it means two of the most important people in my life are happy… and it includes the possibility of joining in”

Dave narrowed his eyes, “Are you only saying the smutty parts because you want to make up for me missing last night?”

“You know me to well,” Celestia blushed as she turned to look at Luna. “But I don’t want you both to start anything physical unless you let me know… alright?”

Luna nodded, “how far can I go physically?”

“Hang on,” Dave held up his hands. “I’m not a piece of meat here”

“Nothing going inside,” Celestia stared at Luna’s determined face as she hummed

“Hello?” Dave called his voice ignored as the sisters haggled

Luna glanced at Dave, then back to her sister. “What about my… mouth?”

“Seriously, I kinda feel unimportant here!” Dave sighed as he gave up and threw his arms up in protest

Celestia smiled, “Deal, we can renegotiate later!”

Luna beamed as she hugged her sister before bouncing over to Dave and planting a huge kiss on his lips. “See you later Dave, bye Tia!”

Celestia returned to sitting at Dave’s side as Luna hopped out of the room. “You are lucky you get to marry me”

Dave rolled his eyes as he smiled at Celestia, “I sure am… hey, about that kiss you gave Luna, do you think that…”

“After we are married, then we can negotiate”

“Aww”

Chapter 50

“Alright, what if I got to watch you and Luna make out?” Dave smirked as Celestia playfully poked him with her hoof

The white alicorn blushed as she rested her head on Dave’s chest, “I should not have done that, you will never let me forget it”

Dave chuckled as he rubbed his fingers through Celestia’s mane, “It was pretty hot and it definitely gave me some ideas”

“We still have to get married first,” Celestia pouted as she nuzzled against Dave’s neck. “Listen, I know I may have acted a bit weird just now”

Dave laughed as he held up an empty can of whipped cream, “You made out with your sister before pulling this out to celebrate… not to mention that thing you did with that banana”

“Alright it was a spur of the moment thing but I am trying to be serious here,” Celestia used her magic to remove the whipped cream can from Dave’s hand as she sat up to look down at him. “We will have to tell Nox about it, we have to get married and I want to talk with Luna so we can set some ground rules”

The human sat up as he held Celestia’s hoof, “What kind of rules are these?”

Celestia bit her bottom lip as she struggled to keep eye contact with Dave, “Don’t get mad but… I don’t want you having foals with Luna”

“What?” Dave frowned, his body turning slightly so he could get a better look at the nervous princess. “Are you banning me from sleeping with her?”

“Yes, no…” Celestia sighed as she looked at Dave. “I just want to spend time with you and Nox, if you got Luna pregnant now then it would only give us a few months to be a family”

Dave returned to his comfortable seat as he allowed Celestia to rest her head on his shoulder. “I know what you mean… we didn’t exactly know what we were doing and we kinda… rushed into this whole family thing”

“All I ask is that you don’t even risk getting Luna pregnant until we are married,” Celestia closed her eyes as she listened to Dave’s gentle breathing. “Maybe in a few hundred years when Nox begins to move out, then you can try”

The human’s eyes widened as he looked at the white alicorn beside him, “A hundred years?” Dave gawped

“Give or take”

Dave sighed as he rested his head on top of Celestia’s, her flowing mane creating the perfect pillow. “You forget that I am still only seventeen… wait…” Dave counted with his fingers before he shrugged. “Ok I have been eighteen for about two weeks”

“And?” Celestia looked up at Dave. “Technically I am about…”

Dave placed his hand over Celestia’s lips as she began humming, “I don’t need to know how old you are, let’s just drop the age thing”

Celestia nuzzled in agreement as she placed a hoof over Dave’s chest. “I suppose you can spend tonight with Luna and I will see you tomorrow morning”

“It is still morning now,” Dave chuckled as he peeked over at the balcony, the sunlight streaming in through a slit in the curtains. “Should we go down for breakfast or are you full?” he teased as Celestia blushed

The white alicorn climbed out of bed and threw Dave’s shirt at him as she began to dress in her golden regalia. Dave chuckled as he began to dress as well, his hand swept through his hair to return it to its mildly shaggy state as he finished dressing and opened the bedroom door for Celestia as they walked out and into the castle corridors

Dave closed the door behind him and caught up to Celestia as she began to descend the stairs. As the human caught up, he slowly placed his arm around Celestia’s neck, stroking behind her ear so she could not help but move her head towards his fingers

The couple continued to playfully nudge each other as they walked down the corridor, eventually stopping as they reached the dining hall. Dave held open the door as he allowed Celestia to walk in, following close behind before his attention was shifted from Celestia to the dining room’s new layout

Luna had shifted her chair from the end of the table all the way up to the other end so she was seated next to Dave’s usual spot. Cadence was in a seat in the middle of the long table with a sleeping Shining Armour sprawled out opposite her

“So… what happened?” Dave asked as he sat down between Luna and Celestia

Shining groaned as he lifted his head to look at Dave, “I-I both hate… and love you right now.” He groaned before dropping his head again

Dave frowned in confusion before he remembered a similar situation happening to him. “Cadence… how long were you and Shining at it?”

The princess of love tapped her chin, “Hmm, I would say… fourteen hours”

Celestia gained a smug smirk as she winked at Dave, “We still hold the record”

“Twenty four hours straight,” Dave nodded as he gave his order to a waiting servant. “And Cadence should have done better considering her special talent in love”

Luna blushed at the conversation going on around her and she gently placed a hoof on Dave’s arm. “What are you doing tonight?”

Dave noticed Luna’s embarrassed look and decided to change the subject. “Well I could stay up and we can hang out or…”

“Can we call it a date?” Luna smiled hopefully as Dave glanced at Celestia

Finally, Dave nodded and held Luna’s hoof, gently stroking the back of it with his thumb. “Sure, anything you want honey”

Dave leaned towards the princess of the night and allowed her to reach out and exchange a quick kiss. Cadence stared at the kiss before glancing at Celestia, before looking back to Dave. “Are you and Luna a couple? As well as you and Celestia?”

“Yes, I think we have made a small…” Dave struggled to say the word, his previous experience resulting in weeks of torment and death, all reserved for him. “… Harem”

“R-really?” Cadence turned her eyes to Luna. “Are you sure about this? I don’t want to see you get hurt again”

Dave gave Cadence a deadpan stare. “Seriously? You know me well enough to know that I would never hurt Luna’s feelings”

Cadence avoided Dave’s gaze as she tried to find the right words. “Well you… have before… sort of”

“You mean the time I was rejected, and then suffered various attempts at getting back together?” Dave raised an eyebrow. “And during that time, most of my friends were being manipulated into trying to sleep with me”

“Well…” Cadence played with her mane as she smiled sweetly. “Can we call it half and half?”

Dave hummed, “I would say everyone else is at least… sixty nine percent responsible”

“NO NOT ANOTHER SIXTY-NINE!” Shining yelled as if her had just woken from a nightmare. His eyes slowly moved to look at the shocked princesses and a laughing Dave, his head against the table as he pounded it with his fist

“How did I know something like that would happen?” Dave continued to chuckle as he wiped a tear from his eye

Shining Armour grumbled and hugged a large mug of coffee that a servant passed to him, “I really don’t feel up to work today”

Cadence instantly gained a guilty face, “I’m sorry about my… eagerness, but can’t you just take today off and let somepony else take over for today?”

“I would have asked Strong Shield but he was sacked,” The captain of the guard almost glared, his tiredness was very obvious as he yawned

The princess of love stood up as she walked to the door, “I’m sure that the guards still respect him enough to do what he says”

“They are all terrified of him… well,” Shining took a swig of his coffee as he snorted. “Not the latest recruits I was supposed to train today”

“Well he loved doing that so he can do it today,” Cadence’s smile as everypony rose their eyebrows at her, even the servants bringing in food. “What?”

Celestia tapped her hooves together, “Strong Shield isn’t the loving type, and the only passion I have seen from him was when he adopted Dave”

Dave kept quiet as Strong Shield’s past life was brought into question. He merely nodded or shrugged to agree or disagree. The pink alicorn finally decided to leave but was delayed as Nox walked through the door, Applebloom close beside him

Shining Armour drank most of his coffee before sliding out of his chair and pursuing Cadence, “I’m just gonna make sure she doesn’t do anything foolish”

“Hey son, how are you?” Dave smiled as the grey colt sat opposite him, Applebloom taking a seat next to her special somepony. His smile lessened as Nox and Applebloom sighed sadly, “What’s up?”

Applebloom tapped her hooves together, “Mah family was starting ta wonder when I would be going back”

“I found some guards that said they would take her back home after we had breakfast,” Nox sighed. “But we can go to Ponyville again soon right?”

Dave nodded as Celestia looked between her fiancé and her son. “I think our son has grown up to be quite polite and independent… almost like his father,” Celestia joked as everypony laughed except Dave

“Yeah, yeah, yeah,” Dave mumbled as he held back a smirk. “But you do seem to be quite helpless when I scratch that spot on your rear, the spot just above your…”

Celestia blushed as she placed her hoof over Dave’s sly grin. Her white face had turned almost completely red. “Not outside the bedroom,” She whispered as her eyes darted to the other ponies in the room

Luna leaned forwards to join in on the conversation, “Where is this spot? I would like to know for… reasons”

Chapter 51

Strong Shield sat quietly in the barracks, his eye on the large map that sat across the large table. His gaze swept across the terrain as he looked between the city on Manehatten and the small drawing of a black fortress called Tartarus

The black unicorn was careful in thinking to himself, his cautious eye sometimes sweeping the room in case of Celestia’s presence. He even took the precaution of placing magical spells on himself just before he went to sleep, taking care of the risk of Luna stumbling into his dreams

The barrack doors swung open and a princess stepped in, her shadow just in Strong Shield’s sight as she walked over to the table. “Can I help you Princess Cadence?” The black unicorn sighed as he continued to scan the map

“Actually you can!” Princess Cadence smiled as she tapped her hooves on the table, her voice overly happy. “We were wondering if you could attend to Shining Armour’s duties for today…”

“Nope,” Strong Shield said quickly his face remained pointed down

Cadence glanced at her husband for reassurance but he responded with a shrug. “W-well we thought you would have jumped at the chance to train some new recruits”

“You were wrong,” Strong Shield frowned as he looked at the map. The nearest train tracks to Tartarus were still miles away. The special tracks the Daedalus followed were not marked on any map Strong Shield possessed

“But you loved training the guards,” Cadence smiled, hopeful that her attempts could touch Strong Shield’s heart

“It was a job,” Strong Shield grunted. The princess’ attempt failed

Cadence tapped her chin as she thought, “It is you duty as a guard to…”

“I was sacked,” Strong Shield frowned as all the princess achieved was getting the unicorn to shift his glare to her. “Now if you don’t mind I am very busy”

“This is very important,” Cadence pouted. “Shining Armour isn’t feeling too well and I am worried he might injure himself if he works too hard”

Strong Shield turned to look at the princess. “You made him this tired due to you having your libido enhanced because of the royal engagement yesterday… so I will repeat myself once more… no”

“But there is nopony else who can train the guards,” Cadence sighed, her eyes looking around the room as she noticed a few insulted guards. “Well… nopony who can train them as well as you”

The guards around the barracks nodded as they resumed their polishing or other random tasks. Strong Shield looked past Cadence to glare at Shining Armour, “Are you capable of training the guards?”

Shining Armour sighed before he held his head high, “Yeah it is only a pair of unicorns and a Pegasus… I can handle it”

“Fine,” Strong Shield stood up, “Would you like it if I trained them for today?”

“Well… yeah,” Shining Armour nodded. “I would appreciate it and I know that it would definitely be a boost the recruit’s training”

Strong Shield nodded, “So it’s a tactical advantage?”

“I suppose you could call it that,” Shining slowly narrowed his eyes. “So will you do it?”

Strong Shield looked at his map, “Fine but I will require access to the guard’s resources”

The captain of the guard smiled before his face tightened in confusion. “But you never stopped having access… we even let you keep your room here”

“I like to know where I stand,” Strong Shield snorted as he stood up and walked over to one of the guards polishing his armour. “Get me some recruit armour sets,” he ordered and the guard saluted before finally obliging

The black unicorn turned to look at the leaving captain of the guard, “But don’t think for one minute that I will rejoin the guards”

Shining simply shrugged, “Alright, thank you for this and I will get back to training them tomorrow”

“Don’t you have a new drill sergeant?” Strong Shield frowned. “I have been sacked for while now”

“You were sacked for a bad reason, you were in intensive care for almost four months and we thought you would have liked to rejoin…” Shining Armour rubbed a hoof through his blue mane, his head slowly shaking as he looked back up at Strong Shield. “So I didn’t really look for anypony to fill your slot”

Strong Shield turned his head to look at the map that he had been staring at all morning before he looked to the approaching guard, three folded sets of dull iron were levitating above him. The guard passed over the armour sets before returning to his duties

Strong Shield carried the armour sets with him as he walked out of the barracks and straight down the first set of stairs he reached. He reached the next floor down and stepped out onto the balcony that merged with the mountain, most of it carved away to create a large area for guards to do any exercises they required

Three stallions stood around a single tree that had grown in the middle of the grounds, Strong Shield had joined the guards when the tree was half its size and even he had no idea how it managed to start growing. His suspicion was that an earlier guard had brought up a seed and planted it, either way, Strong Shield never thought about cutting it down and using the wood for something useful

One of the unicorns had an annoyed expression, his blond, windswept mane and cream body made his cutie mark of a spear made it look slightly less intimidating. The other unicorn was a pure white, tidy navy mane, a cutie mark of a steel sword, almost the iconic gate guard.

The Pegasus really caught Strong Shield’s eye, his cutie mark was of a winged shield, his mane and tail had a small red stripe but it was barely noticeable against his black body that was covered in yellow stripes

Strong Shield dropped the armour sets he was carrying and walked over to the younger stallions. “So we have a posh colt, a wannabe… and a hybrid?”

The three new recruits all glared at Strong Shield, “who are you?” the blond unicorn snorted. “Do you have the habit of insulting future guards you old…”

“I get to decide if you become a guard on not,” Strong Shield stared at the blond pony. “If you were expecting Captain Shining Armour then I am afraid that you will be very disappointed”

The white unicorn frowned, “Well how do we know if we will get the best training from you?”

Strong Shield would have smiled at the challenge if he weren’t the way he was. “Well you have grown up thinking that you would be a guard, you have the build, mane, cutie mark, natural curiosity… but,” Strong Shield levitated up a armour set and threw it at the unicorn. “You might not have what it takes”

“What about me?” the posh unicorn asked. “He is plain and obvious”

“You were raised in privilege, getting everything you wanted and you never heard the word ‘no’ before,” Strong Shield threw his armour set into the tree. “For your rudeness, you can get your armour without using your magic”

The Pegasus almost did not want to respond as Strong Shield’s gaze turned to him. “S-so you’re going to train us?”

“For today at least,” Strong Shield narrowed his eyes. “Which of your parents is a zebra?”

The Pegasus rubbed a hoof along his neck. “My mother was a zebra… my father was a Pegasus”

“I assume you took your dads colours… black stripes from mom, the wings look quite nimble yet toned…” Strong Shield narrowed his eye briefly. “I assume you play an instrument, stringed… banjo, no… a guitar”

The hybrid bit his tongue as a bead of sweat rolled down his cheek, “Yes sir”

“Well I would like to know the names of the trainees that I will be crushing over the course of the day,” Strong Shield frowned at the posh pony that had refused to climb the tree. “Let’s start with you”

“I’m rich kid,” the cream pony snorted as he held his head high. “And I don’t see how climbing a tree can be part of a guard’s training regime”

Strong Shield pointed at the other unicorn, “kick the tree then tell me your name”

“Uh… I’m Tough Heart,” the pony lifted his rear hoof and kicked the tree, the iron armour fell out of the tree and crashed onto Rich Kid’s head

“I said kick the tree first,” Strong Shield snorted. “And what about you stripes?”

The Pegasus tapped his hooves on the ground, “Well my name is Matrix, kinda hoped that I could do some good by joining the guards.” Matrix chuckled nervously, “I can pop back to my rented room and get my guitar if you want to hear me play”

“Bring that musical shit in the barracks and I will smash it over your head and tie your wings together with the strings,” Strong Shield snorted, the final armour set was dropped behind him as he glanced at the two unicorns. “Get your armour on, you need to get used to the feel”

“What is shit?” Tough Heart raised an eyebrow as he placed the rough helmet on over his mane

“I really should stop using words that Dave uses,” Strong Shield hummed as Matrix reached for the armour resting on the ground. Strong Shield grabbed his hoof, “Not you, I need to see what reach your body has first”

The Pegasus stared at the stern unicorn, “How do you mean… sir?”

“I mean you have to try and hit me,” Strong Shield frowned at Matrix’s hesitant face. “Hit me like you dad did when he slept with that mud drinking whore of a zebra!”

The striped Pegasus’s hesitant face was instantly replaced with anger as he struck out, his hoof aimed at Strong Shield’s chin. The unicorn sidestepped the hoof and ducked under a sweeping wing as he brought his hoof into the Pegasus’ stomach

Matrix coughed as the wind was knocked out of him, he collapsed to the floor as he clutched his stomach. Strong Shield pushed the armour next to the Pegasus, “Congratulations Matrix, you are now my star pupil in this training group… now get up and give me one…”

“O-one?” Matrix looked up at Strong Shield

“… hundred,” Strong Shield glared as he heard both the unicorns sniggering. “And you two can both do double… seeing as you are in heavy iron armour you will get a good work out”

Matrix smirked as both the unicorns realized the plan that they had been subject to and both groaned. Strong Shield took a deep breath as all the trainees were soon exercising and having their muscles put through harsh torment as Strong Shield sometimes placed a hoof on their backs to add extra weight

“Ahh, I missed the smell of hard work and… nose to the FUCKING GROUND you posh mule!”

Chapter 52

“This is ridiculous,” Flux groaned in agitation. “Why isn’t Strong Shield doing anything? He looked ready to make his move”

Battering Ram sat on the floor of their empty house as he rubbed his eyes, “Either he thinks the key is hidden well enough, or he has come clean to the princesses”

“No… he just wants to see what we know,” Flux spat. “If I hadn’t slept with him in Manehatten then we would have the key by now!”

“You slept with him?” Battering Ram sighed before shaking his head. “You want to be with him more than find the key, don’t you?”

Flux nodded, “I will never earn his forgiveness though… so the key is all I have left”

“What if…” Battering Ram bit his lip. “I turned myself in? It would give you a second chance at life”

The lavender Pegasus gasped, “Why would you do that?”

“I have no future… besides, you always knew that I would protect you,” Battering Ram smiled reassuringly. “But you can move on, do what you want to do for once”

Flux stared out of the window at the castle as she resumed glaring again

Meanwhile…

Nox levitated Applebloom’s bag for her as they walked out onto the runway. “Did you pack the bit of comet I got you?”

“Yeah, I was the first thing I packed,” Applebloom smiled as she nuzzled against the grey alicorn. “So when might ya come to Ponyville?”

The alicorn shrugged, “hopefully soon,” Nox smiled reassuringly. “Well if I don’t have anything planned in a week then I will fly down myself!”

Applebloom wrapped her hooves around Nox’s neck as a pair of pegasi guards brought a small chariot over and placed the bags into one of the compartments. The earth pony jumped onto the padded seat as she made herself comfortable

“I’ve never been in one of these flying things before,” Applebloom looked around nervously. “Granny Smith said that she once went on one of those flying ships”

One of the guards turned his head to smile at Applebloom, “Don’t worry miss, you are perfectly safe with us”

“She had better be!” Nox frowned playfully, the guards saluting as they extended their wings. “See ya later Applebloom!”

Applebloom waved as the chariot began to pick up speed, “See you soon Nox! I love you!”

“I love you too!” Nox cheered as a smile spread across his lips

The grey alicorn watched as the golden chariot took to the air and flew towards the horizon, a small part of Nox wanted him to spread his own wings and chase the chariot, to follow Applebloom. But his hooves took him back inside the castle and took him on a long course back to the dining room where his family were

As Nox stepped into the room, he noticed that Dave had moved up a spot and Luna was now sat opposite the vacant seat. The colt sat between his parents as Dave leaned over and placed a hand on Nox’s head as he ruffled his mane

“So has Applebloom gone back home then?” Dave patted Nox on the back as he nodded sadly. “Well we have something to tell you that might… confuse you”

“What is it dad?” Nox looked up at his father as the human scratched his head

Dave looked at Celestia and Luna as he sighed. “You know I am marrying mom soon?” Dave smiled as Nox nodded. “Well… I am also in a relationship with Auntie Luna as well”

“So will you be getting married to Auntie Luna too?” Nox tilted his head

“Well…” Dave looked at Luna as she blushed and looked down at her hooves. “Of course I will but I have to get married to mom first”

Luna looked at Celestia and saw her give a happy smile. Nox frowned in confusion, “So she will be your wife… that means I will have to call her mom too?”

“You can still call her Auntie Luna,” Dave poked Nox’s tummy playfully as he caused the colt to go into a laughing fit. “You only ever have one mom, don’t forget that”

Nox grabbed Dave’s hand as he calmed himself down, “W-what about your mom?” Nox asked as he still recovered from his laughing fit

The grey alicorn did not notice Dave’s brief switch of expression but Luna and Celestia both noticed his small disheartened, vacant stare. The sisters exchanged worried glances as Dave picked Nox up to kiss his mane and place him on the floor

“Go see if you can find grandpa and I will see if I can get some ice-cream for desert later,” Dave smiled as the young alicorn cheered and ran out of the room, his wings flapping to boost his speed. Dave sat back in his usual chair to look at the two sympathetic princesses, “What?”

Luna decided to sit quietly as Celestia placed a hoof on Dave’s hand. “Are weddings a big event on your world?”

“Kinda, except some people get divorced,” Dave turned his hand so he could stroke Celestia’s hoof with his thumb. “But I will never stop loving you… or you Luna”

“Don’t you ever think about your world?” Celestia shuffled closer to Dave as she placed her other hoof on his face. “It’s ok to cry… we understand that losing your past life can be hard”

Dave glanced between Celestia and Luna as he hummed, “Alright I will keep that in mind”

“Aren’t you worried about your family back on Earth?” Luna’s face turned to a concerned gasp. “They weren’t abusive were they?”

“What? No!” Dave frowned as he took his hand from Celestia and folded his arms. “It was fine, but I am happier here so can we please drop it?”

Celestia brought her hoof back to her side of the table before she looked down at the table. “Well can you at least tell us a bit about your human family?” she sniffed as she looked up sadly at Dave

“Playing the guilt card?” Dave groaned as he placed his hands on the table and stared at his palms. “I lived with my mom, she took care of me ever since my dad left… I was… three at the time”

Luna and Celestia both exchanged nervous glances before Luna leaned forwards and placed a dark hoof in Dave’s hand. “Why don’t you talk about your home world?”

“This is my home,” Dave held Luna’s hoof as he sighed. “I don’t like dwelling on things I can’t change”

Celestia placed her hoof in Dave’s other hand, “But what about your family? Surely they would want to know that you are getting married”

“You are my family,” Dave smiled as he gently squeezed both the hooves in his hands. “And Strong Shield has adopted me, he probably has filled out enough paperwork to convince everypony that I am biologically related”

“And what about friends?” Luna tried to look for any sadness in Dave’s eyes. “They must miss you and have at least tried to find you”

Dave snorted, “I had friends, but they are nothing compared to what I have now”

“How so?” Celestia frowned. “You have only been here for a fraction of the time you were on Earth”

“If one of them had a problem with me back then, I would find my problem and try to find a… solution,” Dave shook his head as he continued to stare at the light and dark hooves in his hands. “If I had a problem with them and tried to talk about it or find a solution…”

Luna squeezed Dave’s hand as he fell silent. “What would happen?”

“Well people don’t like hearing about their bad points,” Dave shrugged. “I was one of the few that wanted to know their problems and get people to help them correct the issue”

“So they stopped being your friend?” Celestia leaned over and nuzzled Dave’s head. “Well they didn’t deserve you”

Dave chuckled, “I sometimes felt that they only kept me around because I was a laugh, someone who would go that extra effort to do more… but they never expected me to ask for anything in return.” The human turned his head so he rested it against Celestia’s. “I had… two or three close friends… the others were just talking to me so they felt liked”

“Well you are surrounded by good friends here,” Celestia smiled as she felt Dave squeeze her hoof in affection

Luna smiled as she felt her own hoof receive a small squeeze, “Not to mention you have us to love you”

Dave pulled his head away from Celestia as he smiled, “that is true… that other stuff is in the past and I would prefer it if we didn’t have to bring it up again”

“Why not?” Luna sighed as Dave shook his head

“Because I don’t want to think about what might have happened if what happened to me before was true,” Dave mumbled angrily to himself as he saw Luna’s and Celestia’s confused and worried stares. “When I was imprisoned by the Elements of Harmony, my mind was forced to play a trick and put me in a perfect one-man prison”

Celestia’s ears drooped in guilt, “But Odio helped you escape.” She sighed as she thought back to the time she saw Dave be turned to stone, her anger back then almost lost her the one she loved

“Yeah… but my mind came up with a clever trick of saying that I bashed my head open and got an infection.” Dave chuckled at his subconscious’ creativity. “I was apparently in a coma and you were fake… I still get nightmares that all this was just dream and I am just laying in a hospital bed with a split skull”

Luna dropped her head in a guilt she shared with Celestia, “The elements did that much damage to you? We didn’t think about any after effects”

Dave stood up and walked around the table so he could wrap his arms around both the princesses in a big hug. “I would do it all again if it made you both safe, I wouldn’t even pause to think”

“But if we had thought to listen to you back then…” Celestia shuddered as she thought back to the time she tortured Dave. “We could have avoided putting you through so much pain, such anguish”

Luna nodded, “You have every right to hate us but you still love us… why?”

Dave chuckled, “What’s with the random questions today? I love you both now and forever, nothing will stop me from protecting you both or anypony else I care about”

“We’re sorry Dave, it is just that everything is finally going the way we all want it to,” Luna smiled. “We won’t bring it up again”

“Thanks,” Dave kissed both the princesses. “I might see if I can find my dad as well, I need to ask him something”

Both the princesses nodded as Dave released them from their hugs and left the room, his smile fading as his thoughts turned to Tartarus. Both the royal sisters sighed as the door closed and they were left alone

“I had no idea that the elements would have such a lasting effect on Dave,” Luna sighed. “It is all our fault that he suffered”

Celestia stood up and walked over to Luna, wrapping a wing around her. “He doesn’t hold it against us and he understands why we reacted the way we did back then”

“And what if we react that way again?” Luna wrapped her hooves around Celestia’s white neck. “I-I don’t want to lose Dave again”

The princess of the sun held her younger sibling, “Don’t worry Luna, Dave loves us and he won’t leave us for any reason”

The human that rested his ear against the door quietly sighed to himself, his hand rubbing his eyes as he pulled his head away from the door. “Well I hope for your sakes that something good happens,” Dave sighed as he started his search for Strong Shield

Chapter 54

“This… is… ARGH!” Rich Kid collapsed as the recruits dragged themselves past the donut shop for the fifth time. “W-why is Canterlot so… so big?” the posh pony gasped for breath

Matrix groaned as he fell to his flank and wiped the large amount of sweat from his brow. “After all that exercise back at the castle I just can’t carry on!”

Tough Heart tripped over Matrix’s long wings and fell to his face, “Why are we out here? There is nopony to supervise us or tell us what to do”

“But we were ordered to run around Canterlot ten times,” Matrix coughed as his limbs burnt and his lungs struggled to get all the air his body desired. “We have only done half”

“That old fart that is training us has been sacked!” Tough Heart sneered. “He shouldn’t be giving orders to anypony but here he is barking at us to be good enough!”

Rich Kid nodded, “My father only sent me to the guards because I was being a nuisance and wanted me to learn manners”

“I joined because I thought it was a good cause,” Tough Heart spat on the ground. “I am not taking this, if I am not going to be given any respect then the guards have lost out”

“Same here,” Rich Kid nodded. “I am going for some food and drink, would you like to come”

Tough Heart nodded, “I’m coming, how about you Matrix?”

“What? No!” The black and yellow Pegasus stood up. “I joined the guards to serve, and if that means putting my faith in some random unicorn then I will do it!” He stood up as he felt the tiredness wash from his body. “Now if you could both move, I have some laps to do”

The Pegasus ran off at full gallop, shoving the two unicorns aside as he focused on running. Both the deserters groaned as they began to walk into the donut shop, only to get knocked aside as a group of mares and a baby dragon rushed past

“Twilight slow down!” Spike held onto the unicorn’s purple mane as she half-galloped down the street. “I’m sure Princess Celestia isn’t going anywhere”

“This is the second time I have had to hear about a wedding from someone other than the one pony who is getting married!” Twilight growled as she approached the castle, her friends close behind as the guards recognised the bearers of the elements and opened the gates. “Applebloom knew before I did and I’m Celestia’s student!”

Rarity whined as she walked briskly, her pace meant that she was at the back of the group. “Twilight, could you be a darling and walk slower? The wind is bad for my mane”

“I don’t think that Twilight is trying to restyle your mane,” Rainbow Dash flinched as Twilight bucked the castle doors open and stormed in. “I think she might restyle some rooms in anger though”

“Are we surprising the princess with a surprise visit?” Pinkie giggled happily. “Oh this will be such a surprise seeing the princess surprised, I might surprise myself just seeing her surprised face!”

“I-I don’t like surprises,” Fluttershy whispered as she followed behind Applejack, the earth pony smiled back at her

“Don’t worry Fluttershy, Twi is just gonna say congratulations to the happy couple… aren’t ya Twi?” Applejack did not seem too sure as she spotted Twilight with a large frown

“Oh I am going to give them something…” Twilight growled as she stormed down another corridor, her eyes glaring straight ahead as she neared the throne room doors

Her friends gave some final few efforts before the angry element of harmony pushed the throne room doors open and stepped in. A dozen gryphons stood at the bottom of the royal stairs, a guard allowed one to stand at the bottom step and speak to the princess of the sun. The gryphon at the bottom of the stairs was already annoyed and was growling quietly

“Why didn’t you tell me you were getting married!?” Twilight yelled from the other end of the large hall. Spike fell from her back as she panted in anger, her quick pace finally taking its toll

Princess Celestia rubbed her face with her golden hoof before waving to Twilight, “I will speak with you in a moment Twilight, I have more important matters to attend to”

“More important?” Twilight laughed sarcastically. “You are getting married and you don’t even send a letter to your student?”

“I will say this once,” General Talon turned to face the purple mare. “Sit down and be silent!”

Twilight froze as she realized the entire group before her were actually gryphons. Some wore medals and sashes whilst others had small pieces of armour strapped to their bodies. The ponies slowly inched behind Twilight as Talon turned his snarl to Celestia

“Those bugs threatened my race and forced a peace, I was forced to back down because of a powerful leader to the Changelings,” Talon roared as he took a step further up the marble stairs. “And I find out that it was one fog that now resides in your kingdom and he makes your child giggle!”

“If you are referring to Odio then I will inform you that he is a guest and is under my protection,” Celestia frowned at the general. “And I demand you keep your eagle eyes away from your allies”

Talon snarled angrily, a loud growl grew at the back of his throat, “I demand your assistance in wiping the changelings out! They have attacked you before, that is why you helped us gain control of their borders!”

“I remember lending assistance to PROTECT!” Celestia yelled at the gryphon. “I will not exterminate an entire race because one gryphon has lost his self-respect”

“YOU PATHETIC MULE!” Talon roared. “We respect your pony ways because you have powerful magic at your disposal, but without all that, without all your elements and other trinkets, what have you got?”

Celestia glared at the Gryphon as he glared back, Twilight and her friends exchanged nervous glances as they looked back up at Celestia. The princess of the sun took a deep breath before holding her head high again

“I understand your anger but extermination isn’t the way,” Celestia began but was prevented from going further as General Talon roared again

“You continuously allow yourself to get pushed around by these… roaches,” Talon’s claws scratched against the ground as he held back his anger. “If we attack then we can stop all the problems from coming back, we can KILL that fly they call a queen”

Celestia shook her head, “Enough General Talon!” She stood as she looked down at the squadron of gryphons and their furious leader. “I will not be spoken to in my own castle, especially about such dirty matters as this”

“If you won’t help me now then I will not help you the next time Chrysalis gets her teeth into your future husband!” Talon spat, his snarl grew as Celestia’s eyes filled with anger. “He has kissed the changeling queen more times than you know! And I almost respect that ape for understanding who is respectable and who should be used”

Celestia stood as she bared her teeth to the gryphon general, “You are trying my patience, leave now before negotiations deteriorate any further”

Talon was not finished with pushing Celestia’s buttons as he snorted, “Your fiancé has a habit of going for royalty, he has you and your sister and he could have Chrysalis and Larva if he truly wished so!”

“I SAID LEAVE!” Celestia bellowed, her anger dripped from her voice as the ponies moved to one of the corners of the room. The royal guards slowly tensed their muscles before relaxing, preparing for any situation that might arise. The gryphons growled with their leader as they stared up at Celestia, none of them noticing the door open and softly close

“What happens when the changelings come here again?” Talon advanced further up the steps, almost like he was stalking towards Celestia with the attempt to leap at her. “Will you stand by and allow your love to become one with those life sucking beetles!”

Celestia opened her mouth to yell at the approaching gryphon, her attention had been focused on not obliterating the general but this was the case with most of their meetings. General Talon would ask too much from Celestia and would sulk away with nothing. But this time, instead of Celestia retaliating, General Talon yelped as his tail was yanked and a sudden force pinned his head to the stairs

“NOPONY SPEAKS TO CELESTIA THAT WAY!” Dave yelled to General Talon as he held his head down. The gryphons roared as they prepared to charge but hesitated as six guards leapt to stand in their way

The guards were outnumbered two-to-one by the gryphons but they had Dave who calmly picked up Talon and held him in the air by his throat

“I hate Chrysalis and her changelings,” Dave spat into the gryphon’s face. “But killing an entire race is wrong and we will not take any part in it”

Talon continued to snarl, even when he was struggling to breathe. “The changelings have already attempted to break through our border patrols again! Once or twice they were with that queen or princess!”

Dave’s frown turned curious as he placed the gryphon down. “I will tell you this once, I will bring Chrysalis here soon and I will make both of you talk, whether you like it or not”

“If you get me in the same room as that spider then I will tear her limb from limb,” Talon snarled. “But I shall humour you by talking first”

“If I get both of you in the same room, with me, Celestia and whoever else,” Dave poked the general and earned a chorus of growls from the gryphons. “You will make a peaceful solution”

General Talon snarled as he stood up to Dave, “What do I get out of this?”

“If Chrysalis acts up, winks at me or pisses my fiancé off…” Dave smirked. “I’ll look the other way and I will leave you alone with her”

Talon’s eyes lit up, “Well you had better not be wasting my time with this!”

“I despise Chrysalis!” Dave snarled. “But peace deserves a chance”

The general of the gryphons nodded before marching away, his squadron of gryphons followed him as he left the throne room. The minute the doors slammed shut, the guards sighed, the ponies breathed again, Dave sat down on his step and Celestia moved to join him

“You weren’t serious about leaving Talon with Chrysalis were you?” Celestia wrapped a wing around Dave. “I hate her but killing her isn’t right”

Dave chuckled, “I lied about everything I said, except the talking part,” the human rubbed his hand through Celestia’s fur. “I wouldn’t kill anypony, but it gets that jarhead to sit down and talk”

“I love you too much sometimes,” Celestia laughed as she nuzzled against Dave, her eyes wandered around the room and saw the elements were still sat in the corner of the room, their eyes wide from watching politics unravel

“Dave…” Rainbow Dash raced over and stuck her hoof out to the human. “That was AWESOME!”

Dave tapped his fist against the hoof before smiling to the others. “Hey guys, how have you been?”

Spike ran over and gave Dave a high-five, “You just showed that gryphon who’s boss!”

“You know it Spike,” Dave rubbed the dragon’s head. “I wouldn’t let my special somepony get talked to like that by some bully”

Celestia smiled to Twilight, “I apologize for not sending you a letter but we haven’t made invites yet and we wanted you and your friends to get the best seats”

“I-invites?” Twilight blinked, “But we aren’t related to you, we should be in the friend seats shouldn’t we?”

The white alicorn giggled as she rested her head on Dave’s shoulder. “I don’t have much family remember?”

“Yeah,” Dave chuckled. “I don’t have family here either… except my dad and Nox”

“Oh that reminds me,” Celestia looked to her fiancé. “Will you be able to get your father to give me away? He is the closest to a father figure we have”

Dave tapped his chin, “I’ll try, but I think I have a better chance of making a stone bleed”

“Oh that doesn’t sound very nice,” Fluttershy whimpered. “I’m sure the rock doesn’t deserve to be hurt”

Pinkie bounced over, “Why are we hurting Tom?”

“I thought we agreed to never speak of that again,” Rarity sighed

Chapter 55

“So…” Twilight tapped her chin. “Dave is engaged to you whilst in a relationship with Princess Luna”

Dave nodded, “Yeah, so far so good!” He smiled as Applejack leaned forward

“And that Odio fella isn’t controlling anypony or possessing Dave?” The earth pony waited for Dave to nod before sitting back again

“Congratulations everypony!” Dave cheered. “We have finally gotten through this without too much difficulty”

Rainbow Dash placed her hooves on the long dining table as she frowned at Dave, “I thought you hated harems!”

“I do but…” Dave smiled to Celestia as he reached out and held her hoof. “I love Celestia and Luna more”

Rarity smiled as she sipped the tea that was laced in front of her. “Well if you are all happy then I don’t see what problems could occur”

“Don’t say that,” Dave groaned. “It sounded like ‘nothing can go wrong’ and we all know how well that phrase has helped me”

“Well you did seem to attract a lot of attention and problems without needing any help,” Rarity responded with a smirk, leaving Dave with a small frown that slowly changed into a smile

The human shrugged as he felt a tug on his coat, he looked down to see Spike smiling up at him. “Hey Spike, what’s up?”

“Hey Dave, I figured that you would want to talk with the others so I was wondering where Nox is,” the baby dragon rubbed his claws together as Dave hummed

“Well if he isn’t being pumped full of nonsense by Odio then he is probably in the barracks with his cheerful grandpa,” Dave’s eyes popped open as he turned to Celestia. “Will Nox have to go through military training?”

Celestia almost spat her tea out as she frowned at Dave, “No! Why would I force my son to go through the guard training regime?”

“I’m from England, we had a royal family and some of the males went into some kind of military training,” Dave sipped his drink as he hummed. “Different place, different traditions I suppose”

Spike glanced at Twilight before shrugging, “I’ll just look around”

Meanwhile…

Lieutenant Night Stalker sat polishing his dark armour as the barrack doors swung open and a sweaty Matrix limped in, collapsing after a few steps into the room. The night guard glanced at the other guards and rolled his eyes as he was the closest one to the exhausted hybrid

“Do you have the strength to take yourself to your bunk?” Night Stalker frowned as he was responded with a loud groan, signalling that his assistance was required. “Would you like some help?”

Matrix lifted his head, his mane drenched in sweat, “Yes please!”

“Had the energy to say that,” Night Stalker mumbled angrily as he placed his armour polish down and walked over to the panting Pegasus. He used one of his charcoal black wings to scoop under the black and yellow body of the trainee to support some of his weight

“Thanks, the other guys decided to abandon the training,” Matrix sighed. “Will I get kicked out for not working as a team?”

Night Stalker began to help Matrix towards the sleeping quarters, “no you will just get advanced into the next stage”

“Wait… what?” Matrix suddenly hopped away from the lieutenant his eyes wide as a large smile spread across his face. “I-It was a test? And I-I passed?”

“Well… all trainees start as groups of three,” Night Stalker sat down at one of the small tables around the barracks and waited for the recruit to sit opposite him. “As the training increases in difficulty then some leave, eventually leaving one guard that follows orders and will give everything to prove himself as a good guard”

Matrix’s smile lessened as he used a hoof to sweep aside his damp mane, “your said ‘himself’, does that mean that mares aren’t allowed to join the guards?”

“One joined years ago, according to rumour,” Night Stalker lowered his voice. “My advice is to not bring it up”

“Why not?” the striped Pegasus looked around the barracks. “Is there a conspiracy?”

Night Stalker shook his head, “No, all you need to know is that mares can join, but they don’t”

“That’s fair enough I guess,” Matrix tapped his striped hooves on the table before he heard the barrack doors open and a frowning Strong Shield stepped in, glaring at some paperwork that levitated in front of him

“Who ordered the rookie to sit down?” Strong Shield barked as he glanced at Matrix, waiting for somepony to answer his question. “Nopony? Well why is he sat down rather than outside with the rest of the trainees?”

Matrix groaned as he slid off his chair and stood to attention as best he could, “Sorry sir, Rich Kid and Tough Heart both left”

“You mean your squad failed to run around the city ten times?” Strong Shield glared at the yellow and black Pegasus

“I-I managed to do the task but the others…” Matrix was silenced as Strong Shield slammed his documents onto the table and marched over to the trainee

“You may have passed but your squad failed,” Strong Shield snorted as Matrix avoided his gaze. “I see that you require more training in working as a unit, but unfortunately I can’t let you progress because you are a single trainee with no squad”

Matrix looked up at Strong Shield as his jaw dropped slightly, “So I… failed?”

“You can’t be a trainee…” Strong Shield’s horn glowed as he levitated over a single sheet from his stacks of paper, placing in on the table. “Place your hoofprint in the box at the bottom,” Strong Shield pointed to the large box large enough for one hoofprint

Matrix shuddered as he read the small writing beside the box, “Hoofprint required to discontinue training in the royal guards… is there nothing I can do?” he looked at Strong Shield, almost pleading for another chance

“No, now place your hoofprint in the box,” Strong Shield glared until Matrix slammed his hoof into the box, leaving an indent in the paper. “Good, now lieutenant Night Stalker, please take Private Matrix to the armoury for some decent armour before your patrol in an hour”

Matrix’s eyes popped open as he looked between the two dark ponies, “Did you call me Private Matrix?”

“Yes, I can’t train you anymore without you becoming an official guard,” Strong Shield snorted as he placed the stamped paper back onto the stack beside him. “Lieutenant Night Stalker will be your handler for a few days, his word is law to you”

“Will Matrix be joining the Noire Wings?” Night Stalker sighed as he stood up from his seat

Strong Shield looked over the newly recruited private and shook his head, “Probably not, you may take him out for night patrols or any other reason but he gets to decide whether he join the night guards or day guards”

“What are the Noire Wings?” Matrix asked, his curiosity helping to keep his excitement from bubbling over

Night Stalker sighed as he looked at the grinning Pegasus, “the Noire Wings are the night guards that are responsible for the protection of Princess Luna during special events”

“Basically Princess Luna’s personal bodyguards,” Strong Shield picked out another sheet of paper from his pack and passed it to Matrix. “This is the requisition order for your new armour and your new bunk room”

Matrix used a wing to hold the sheet as he read through the list, “One full set of golden armour, four tins of armour polish, one standard issue hoofcuffs, one standard issue wingcuffs, and one magical dampener”

“Everything a guard needs to make an arrest,” Strong Shield tapped his documents against the table before he looked over at the two pegasi. “You are both partners for now, get used to it or figure out how to get Matrix promoted fast… don’t forget to salute rookie”

Matrix stood to attention as he saluted Strong Shield, “Thank you sir!”

Strong Shield gave a small salute before walking off towards the captain of the guard’s office. Night Stalker held his hoof out to Matrix and they shook hooves, “Congratulations you passed the first test”

“Thanks I… first test?” Matrix groaned as the ache in his muscles returned. “Can we take a break first?”

“Probably not, we can get your equipment and we can rest while you polish your armour,” Night Stalker looked at the sheet of paper that was handed to him. “It looks like we will have some time before we go on the sunset patrol, should be easy for your first patrol”

Matrix chuckled, “So long as I have my partner I should be fine”

“Don’t call me that, use my name like everypony else,” Night Stalker frowned his new team-mate still smiled as he looked down at his requisition order

Meanwhile…

Strong Shield knocked on the door and stepped into Shining Armour’s office, a few pieces of paper were strewn around the large desk and the ex-guard sorted them out due to habit. He looked up to see the white unicorn sat at his desk with a shocked expression on his face

“Hey Strong Shield… what are you doing?” Shining moved his hooves from under the desk to on top as he took the stack of papers that Strong Shield passed him. “What are these?”

“I sorted the reports since my… dismissal,” Strong Shield tapped the front document. “This is a basic summary of all the guard’s actions in the last four months, with improvements, funds and timetable of events”

Shining nodded as he looked through the sheets and pushed them aside, “That’s great, thanks for helping out”

“Also I have your newest private ready to start doing patrols, I have left him in Lieutenant Night Stalker’s care…” Strong Shield looked down at the desk between him and the captain of the guard. “How are you Princess Cadence?”

Shining’s eyes looked down as a small tapping noise came from under the desk. Strong Shield rolled his eye before leaving the room, allowing Cadence to peek out from under the desk

“Did he know I was there the entire time?” the princess of love looked up at her husband

“I-I don’t want to know,” Shining sighed as he looked back down at his wife. “I’ll lock the door”

Meanwhile…

Spike walked down the corridor as he continued his hunt for Nox, his attention was brought to the corner he was about to reach, the sound of something dragging against the stone floor made him jog to look around

Unfortunately for Spike he ran straight into an orange chest, the baby dragon looked up to see the teen dragon looking down at him. “Oh hey…” Spike smiled as he slowly walked backwards

“Hey! It’s the dweeb!” Garble appeared from behind the orange dragon and grabbed Spike, holding him by his head as he snorted smoke into his face. “Try and run away now”

“Just put him down,” the orange dragon sighed. “Adamas said we had to meet him on the runway

“Shut up Blaze, I am just gonna have a little fun!” Garble smirked as he threw Spike in the air and caught him at the last moment

The final dragon appeared and tapped her chin as she saw the baby dragon being thrown in the air. “You know, I always wondered if baby dragons could survive falling from the top of the mountain”

“We have a mountain outside, we can try it!” Garble smirked at Spike as the baby dragon’s attempts at wiggling free were futile. “Do you want to drop him Blaze?”

“No,” the orange dragon snorted. He pushed past the other two dragons as he walked down the corridor. “Put him down or I will tell Adamas”

Garble gave a sarcastic gasp, “Oh no, not Adamas the gentle dragon!”

“Yeah, just because you want to be magical doesn’t mean the rest of us do,” The female dragon glared as she snatched Spike from Garble’s claws

The three teen dragons glared at each other but were interrupted as they head hoovesteps approach. “Hey!” Nox yelled. “Put Spike down!”

The black teen laughed as she saw the small alicorn, “Aww look, a baby alicorn, who are your parents?”

“My mum is Princess Celestia and my dad is Dave!” Nox growled. “Now put Spike down! Last warning!”

Garble and the female dragon gasped, “Dave is your dad?”

“I warned you!” Nox’s horn glowed an the two bullies levitated to the ceiling, Spike fell from the dragon’s clutches and fell into Blaze’s arms. “You ok Spike?”

Spike nodded as he jumped to the ground and looked up at the two dragons that were pinned to the ceiling. “What did you do?”

“Changed gravity around them… or placed a black hole behind them,” Nox hummed. “Either way they shouldn't get hurt… I hope”

Blaze smirked as the grey alicorn and baby dragon left. “So would you like me to get Adamas the gentle dragon to help you?”

Chapter 56

“I swear, if I ever see that dweeb Spike again I’m gonna,” Garble groaned as he punched his claws together

Blaze rolled his eyes, “Just be thankful that I am not going to tell Adamas about what you did”

The three teenage dragons walked out to the large runway, they all scanned the long marble surface and saw no trace of Adamas. The slim black dragon spat an ember into Blaze’s face, “we weren't planning on that alicorn showing up”

“I hope you aren't talking about Noxporta,” Adamas growled as he glared down at the teenagers. They turned around to see the diamond dragon standing with his hind legs either side of the door they walked through

“Umm… is his father Dave?” Garble smiled innocently before being coated in a thick stream of smoke being blasted from Adamas’ nostrils

“Yes and his father is a close friend of mine and to the enlightened,” Adamas snarled. “If I hear that you did anything bad to Nox then I will have you punished!”

The black female flapped her long wings and flew up to look at Adamas. “Some of us think that this enlightened stuff in nonsense”

“You don’t think that dragons can obtain magic?” Adamas narrowed his eyes as the black dragon folded her arms in response. “Well sit down young Zisha and you may learn something”

Zisha snorted before returning to her spot beside the other two dragons. The large diamond drake opened his jaws and released a small stream of flame into his hands, the flame stayed around Adamas’ claw as he looked at the young apprentice

“Can you freeze fire?” he stared down at the apprentices as they shook their heads. “Well I can,” He stared at his claw and the dancing flames stopped in their tracks and a thin layer of ice slowly covered the orange fire

The diamond dragon opened his claw and the frozen fire fell to the floor and shattered, the ice briefly burst into flames before leaving a mix of burnt spots and water droplets to litter the ground

“Now I want you to find Dave and apologize for being a nuisance,” Adamas pointed at Garble, the red dragon groaned as he wandered back into the castle. Zisha and Blaze both chuckled as the unlucky teen gave them a glare and disappeared around the corner

Meanwhile…

Dave held the dining room door open as the elements of harmony began to walk out of the room. “The guards will take you to your rooms if you want”

“No thanks Dave,” Twilight smiled over her shoulder. “I’ve been here enough times to know where the bedrooms are”

Rainbow Dash giggled as she began flying backwards. “I think Twilight is hitting on you again Dave!”

“I only date alicorns!” Dave chuckled as the group of girls laughed. He turned back to Celestia as he closed the door. “What was up with the gryphons earlier?”

The princess sighed as she rubbed her eyes, “the changelings are being difficult again so he asked for our help”

“I assume the gryphons thought Odio was still with them?” Dave groaned as Celestia nodded. “How the hell did he know about me and Luna though?”

“Eagle eyes,” Celestia pointed upwards. “Gryphons fly high in the air and can see things with ease”

Dave shook his head as he glanced at the stained glass windows, “So they have UAVs then”

“UAwhats?” Celestia rose an eyebrow but Dave stepped over and wrapped his arms around the alicorn

“It doesn’t matter,” Dave sighed. “So we still have some of the afternoon left… do you want to…”

Dave was cut off as a knock at the door gave a brief warning as a guard stepped in and saluted. “Prince Dave, two visitors are here to see you and your father”

The human instantly frowned as he guessed who the visitors were, he put on a smile as he looked at Celestia. The alicorn smiled back as she stood up and walked to the door, “Don’t be too long, ok?”

“I won’t,” Dave blew a kiss to Celestia before frowning at the guard. “Get my father now, send in the guests”

The guard saluted and allowed Battering Ram and Flux to step into the room, their eyes stared at Dave as they walked around the table and sat down. The human remained standing as he glared at the two ponies

“What the hell do you two want?” Dave snarled as he clenched his fists. “You have some nerve showing up here”

Battering Ram sighed as he glanced at Flux, “We would like to wait for Strong Shield before we say anything”

“Planning to kill us both off?” Dave narrowed his eyes. “You wouldn’t risk it now my dad is better, not here”

“We don’t want to hurt you,” Flux sighed as she lowered her head. “We just want to talk”

Dave sat down, shortly after the door opened and Strong Shield stepped in, slamming the door behind him. The unicorn sat next to Dave as they both glared at the Pegasus and earth pony

“So why are you both here?” Strong Shield glared. “If you want to negotiate you can go fuck yourselves”

“Where did you learn that language?” Dave glanced at Strong Shield

“From you,” the unicorn leaned forward as he focused his attention on the two ponies opposite him. “Now what do you want to say?”

Flux looked at battering Ram before her ears rested against her head. “We only wanted to protect Equestria… Puppetmaster helped show us a way that was better than the guards”

“It involved killing,” Strong Shield snarled. “How was that protecting?”

“We were only harming criminals,” Battering Ram shook his head. “The guards couldn’t protect everyone”

Dave slammed his fist into the table, “You tried to kill me and my dad!”

“And we are sorry,” Flux shuddered. “We spent most of our lives looking for the key… when we saw the chance to get it we… lunged”

Battering Ram dipped his head, “When we started talking to you again we began to think about how much time we wasted and how little we actually have left”

“Wait… you’re giving up?” Dave shared a confused look with Strong Shield. “But what about the vault?”

“If I know Strong Shield then the key is never going to be found,” Battering Ram chuckled. “We don’t have time chasing ghosts anymore”

Flux nodded, “I have fought too many times, and I just want this to end”

“So you are happy with the consequences… so long as the key is lost?” Strong Shield narrowed his eye, looking for any hint of treachery

“The key is gone… and so is most of our time,” Battering Ram looked down at his hooves. “I will take full responsibility for our actions as long as Flux gets off free”

Strong Shield glared at Flux, “This is a trap”

“She doesn’t want to hurt you Shield!” Battering Ram groaned. “Just because you had your heart replaced with a block of ice it doesn’t mean that you will be betrayed again”

Strong Shield stood as he walked to the end of the table his eye stared at Flux until she slowly stood and walked over to him. Dave and Battering Ram exchanged nervous glances as Strong Shield lifted his hoof and tapped his scared eye

“The key was hidden in here,” He narrowed his good eye as Flux gasped

“W-why would you put it in there you silly colt?” Flux raised her hoof to stroke along the scar. “It must have hurt”

“Like you wouldn’t believe,” Strong Shield sighed as he held Flux’s hoof. “Are you lying to me? About giving up?”

Flux nodded, “I'm not lying… I can’t do this senseless fighting anymore”

“That offer still stands you know,” Strong Shield looked into Flux’s eyes. “You still need to give me an answer”

The Pegasus smiled as tears began to form at the edges of her eyes. “Yes… of course I will marry you”

Battering Ram smiled until he looked across to Dave, “So what is my punishment?”

“If I had my way?” Dave shrugged. “Lots of tests to make sure you weren’t lying, prison for a while and finish off with community service”

“Still better than guard training,” Battering Ram chuckled as he looked at his hooves

Meanwhile, Flux had wrapped her hooves around Strong Shield’s neck. “What was really inside the vault anyway? A new type of machine?”

“I was serious when I said Project Harvest,” Strong Shield snorted. “Puppetmaster told me right before I finished him, not to mention I got scanned and rejected”

“What is Harvest missing?” Flux pondered. “Probably something rare like a phoenix”

Dave sighed as he reluctantly smiled at Strong Shield’s small smile on his face. His head turned when Garble stepped in and dragged himself over to Dave

“Hey dude,” Garble sighed as he sat next to Dave. “I was sent here to apologize for something”

Dave smirked at the dragon, “Oh yeah? What did you do this time?” he laughed

“Oh ha!” Garble groaned, his snout twitching as he narrowed his eyes at Dave. “Hey I didn’t know that you eat gold!”

Dave’s smile dropped as Strong Shield froze in place, Battering Ram and Flux both glanced at each other before they looked to Dave’s stomach

“I don’t know what you mean,” Dave gulped as he saw Battering Ram’s eyes open in realization

Garble sniffed around Dave’s face, “Pure gold too! Wicked!”

“Garble…” Dave frowned at the dragon. “Remind me to kick your ass at some point”

Strong Shield grabbed Flux and threw her aside as he shot a ball of magic into the air. Dave shoved Garble aside as he stood up to face Battering Ram. The large earth pony had already began to throw the table at them as he charged for Dave

The ball of magic exploded and filled the room with light, the sudden bang blinded everypony except Strong Shield as he pulled Dave down to avoid the flying marble table and began running him to the door

Battering Ram recovered enough to see Dave and Strong Shield dive out the door, he braced himself to charge but Flux jumped into his way

“YOU IDIOT!” Flux screamed at him. “You had to throw the table didn’t you?”

The navy earth pony frowned at the smaller Pegasus. “He threw you aside! The key is in Dave and Strong Shield saw fit to attack!”

“IT WAS A TEST!” Flux broke down into tears. “Shield could have easily snapped my neck but he wanted to see if we would attack once we knew the position of the key”

Ram’s eyes shut as he let out a sigh, “I thought he was going to attack BECAUSE we knew the keys location”

“Oh no…” Flux gasped. “We have to stop them from getting to the vault”

“Why?” Ram frowned. “If we don’t follow then they might see we just acted out of reflex”

“Strong Shield was telling the truth…” Flux shook her head. “If he opens the vault, just to get the key inside then… oh dear Celestia no”

The huge pony glared, “What? The vault will open, scan Shield and see that it doesn't need unicorn and close again”

“Yes but what if it scans Dave before he can get the key inside?” Flux shook her head. “Equestria has only one human… Harvest needs it”

“Hang on, I thought that harvest was made of every living creature,” Ram glared. “It only needed one creature and there are only four that we know of, and they all live here!”

Flux groaned as she hit Ram’s chest, “What if Dave shows up as a better match?”

“Oh…” Battering Ram’s eyes popped open. “Harvest would gain Dave’s healing, his traits… his knowledge”

“And Harvest would know the location of every populated area as well as the location of alicorns,” Flux rubbed her eyes. “We have to stop them from getting to the Daedalus and to Tartarus”

Garble pushed himself off the ground as he glared at the ponies, “What the heck are you on about?”

“None of your business dragon!” Flux snarled. “But we have to get Strong Shield to believe us, which is impossible… or get the key and hide it”

“We have basically switched roles with Shield,” Ram groaned. “If we fail, can we count on anypony being able to stop Harvest?”

Flux shook her head, “I couldn't kill Strong Shield… why would Celestia be able to kill Dave?”

“I’m really lost,” Garble held up his claws

Ram snarled, “If you want an explanation then go ask Strong Shield!”

Chapter 57

Dave opened the door that led onto the large runway, waiting until Strong Shield had made it through before slamming the door shut. The black unicorn spotted the diamond dragon resting beside one of the walls, his two remaining apprentices were also sleeping nearby

“Adamas we have a problem!” Dave yelled as he ran over. Strong Shield’s horn glowed as his horn released a red spark. “What was that?”

“A high concentration of hate,” Strong Shield looked towards the castle to see a black fog burst through one of the windows. “To get Odio’s attention”

Adamas opened his eyes as Dave and Strong Shield stopped nearby, “What is the matter?”

“Battering Ram and Flux showed up,” Dave panted as he recovered his breath, he waited until Odio had flown over before standing upright. “They know where the key is so we have to move”

Odio groaned, “And I had almost killed Menendez”

Dave rose his eyebrow to the saddened fog, “Who?”

“You know…” Odio looked at Dave’s shrug. “MENENDEZ!” he yelled as he formed two arms and held them in the air in rage

“You play too many video games,” Dave sighed. “But seriously, we need to leave for Manehatten NOW!”

Adamas nodded, “Alright climb onto my back, Odio may have to place himself inside you Dave”

Odio winked at Dave, “Dave loves having me inside him”

“Shut up,” Dave groaned, a small smile grew on his face as he began to climb aboard the diamond dragon. Odio’s fog wrapped around Dave’s chest before it slowly seeped into his body, Dave’s vision went black before returning to normal

“Ew, gross,” Odio wined as he moved around Dave’s mind. “Can I delete these files labelled family?”

Dave rolled his eyes, “No Odio, just sit down and shut up”

Strong Shield hopped onto Adamas’ back and held onto one of the large crystal spines that poked from the dragon’s back. “Alright, take us to Manehatten”

Adamas flapped his large wings as he slowly rose into the air, “No getting into trouble young apprentices”

Blaze nodded whilst Zisha simply groaned. Adamas flapped a bit harder so he flew completely into the air and left the castle grounds. Dave and Strong Shield held onto the dragon as it began to pick up speed

The wind rushed past Dave’s ears as he looked back to the castle, he swear he spotted Luna standing on her balcony, stretching as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes

“Urgh, I forgot how you look at princesses,” Odio shuddered. “Can you look away now? Please?”

Dave reluctantly looked away from the castle and the city as he looked forward to see Strong Shield glaring into nothingness. “Hey dad, you alright?”

Strong Shield slowly nodded, “I’m fine, it’s just…” the black unicorn sighed. “I almost believed her”

Adamas looked back to give Strong Shield a concerned look, his gaze met Dave’s as they both slipped into silence. Odio continued to rummage through Dave’s mind without a care until he made a gagging noise

“What’s up?” Dave muttered as he adjusted his body into a more comfortable spot

Odio whimpered slightly, “Please don’t tell me you put your tongue where I think you did”

Dave rubbed his neck, “Well… I kinda got carried away”

“You get carried away a lot,” Odio sighed before groaning. “You have a lot of plans for your wedding”

“It is going to be important to me,” Dave frowned. “Don’t you dare think of ruining it for me or I swear to god I will…” Dave shook his fist to finish his point before returning his grasp to the dragon’s spine

Strong Shield looked over his shoulder to glance at the human. “Will you concentrate on the task at hoof?”

“We can’t do anything until we reach Manehatten,” Dave shrugged. “I just want to get this over and done with because everypony is saying how bad Tartarus is and I have to go in there”

“I’m going in with you,” Odio cheered as he swirled around Dave’s brain. “It can’t be any worse than being attacked by the elements of harmony when you have your… condition”

“Condition?” Dave rose an eyebrow, expecting Odio to reveal that he has an illness

Odio chuckled, “You are human, and your body resists the very world itself”

“I know about the magic, Nox was just a battle between my resistance and Celestia’s… compatibility?” Dave scratched his head as he tried to think, “Screw it, I’m happy so I don’t care”

Adamas stopped flapping as he allowed himself to glide, “We shouldn’t take too long to reach Manehatten”

“Good,” Strong Shield looked back at Canterlot to see the large city begin to disappear behind the horizon. “Drop us off just outside the city and keep an eye out for the Daedalus”

“What does this Daedalus look like?” Adamas glanced over at his passengers

Strong Shield hummed, “Streamlined, black train… probably bursting through a side of a warehouse”

“Whoa what?” Dave leaned forward, his eyes open from shock and concern for his own safety

“The Daedalus runs on one track and only one track,” Strong Shield adjusted his position as the diamond scales began to feel uncomfortable. “My theory is that the track was designed to stay in one piece and shift with the moving ground”

“So the track could go underground?” Adamas hummed. “I will fly straight for Tartarus after I drop you off”

Dave tapped the dragon with his foot, “Hey why can’t we just go to Tartarus now?”

“The outer fortress is impenetrable, the walls are strong enough to withstand a millennia of earthquakes, erosion and other causes,” Strong Shield called back as the wind suddenly picked up, causing Adamas to adjust. “But the Daedalus is designed to enter without leaving a gap for anypony else to slip through”

Odio pushed a small amount of his fog out of Dave’s face and his burning eyes blocked Dave’s vision. “Is there anything else you care to share?”

“Well we may have to stop the Daedalus once or twice,” Strong Shield tapped his chin, quickly replacing his hoof as Adamas began banking to one side. “If I recall correctly, the Daedalus requires somepony to drive it at all times”

Dave nodded, “I suppose it would be best if we were both rested rather than have one sleeping and one tired”

“If Flux and Ram showed up I would prefer it if we were both prepared,” Strong Shield frowned again as he looked down at his reflection in the diamond scales. “I still can’t believe I fell for that ruse”

Meanwhile…

Matrix walked down the castle steps in his shining gold armour with slightly more enthusiasm than Night Stalker who was in his normal ebony armour. “So where can we get the most arrests?”

“We aren’t trying to arrest anypony,” Night Stalker groaned as he walked down the steps and began walking alongside his new partner. “We are simply trying to prevent crime, not wait for it to happen before we do anything”

The hybrid sighed, “Fine, I’ll be good”

The pair of guards walked through the main castle gate as they began walking down the main road. Matrix had trouble keeping a straight face as he heard the small clunk from his armour every time he took a step

The more experienced guard slowly moved his eyes to look down side streets or glance into shop windows. His eyes constantly moving as he indicated to Matrix that they should move down one of the busier streets. The broad street had restaurants along each side, various forms of cuisine were on offer as ponies had afternoon meals

“So how long do we keep this up for?” Matrix whispered to his colleague

“About two hours,” Night Stalker narrowed his eyes at a pony that looked slightly more than tipsy. “You will normally do shifts during sunrise or sunset to see if you work better at night”

Matrix had to hold back a gasp, “So if I eat more carrots can I become a night guard?”

“It doesn’t work like that,” Night Stalker glanced at Matrix out of the corner of his eye. “But if you show to me that you perform well in dark conditions then I will place a recommendation”

“Thanks,” Matrix had to work harder to keep his smile in check. He looked back around the streets before he noticed the sound of a loud groaning crowd. “What was that?”

Night Stalker looked towards the sound of the noise, “It is coming from the nightclub Shade”

“We should investigate,” Matrix shrugged as he saw Night Stalker’s unamused look. “Well somepony might be in trouble”

The lieutenant reluctantly nodded and he led the private in the direction of the nightclub and they nodded to the bouncer as they reached the door. The silence from the club concerned both guards as they stopped at the entrance

“What happened?” Night Stalker asked the bouncer

“Just the music system, the speakers have probably blown again,” the bouncer rolled his eyes behind his dark shades. “Last time Miss Vinyl pushed the volume too much we had a brawl”

Matrix nodded, “We are just going in to make sure Nopony starts anything”

Both guards thanked the bouncer before walking down into the club, a few ponies were making their way out but moved aside as the guards walked past. Night Stalker and Matrix looked around the busy nightclub, spotting the DJ beside one of the large speakers with a pony up to his waist in the depths of the machine, obviously trying to repair the damage

The guards made their way through the irritated crowd as they stopped beside the DJ. “What’s the problem?” Matrix asked, his partner watched the crowd as some were too keen to have a good time and were putting away drinks one after the other

The white unicorn raised her shades as she looked at the guards, “oh hey, the speaker broke again and we have a bit of a tough crowd tonight”

“I can see,” Night Stalker glanced at the flank that was poking from the large speaker. “Who are you?”

The pony jolted and bashed his head as he climbed out of the speaker, his cutie mark of a hammer and nails was more easily visible against his dark purple body. His deep orange mane was slightly messy and it partially covered a small cut in his ear

The new unicorn rubbed his horn as he looked at the guards. “Ow, uh… hey, I’m Fixxy, well… Fix It but my mum calls me Fixxy but I um…”

“Nervous around guards?” Night Stalker looked back to the restless crowds as Fix It shook his head

“No, but I said I could fix this speaker because I can fix absolutely anything!” Fix It laughed nervously until he pointed at the crowd. “But they will have my head if I don’t fix it quick enough”

Matrix tapped him reassuringly on the shoulder as he allowed him to get back to work. “We will keep an eye on the crowd don’t worry”

“Thanks,” Fix It called from his depths inside the speaker. “I am normally a lot friendlier but… I feel kinda uncomfortable around a large group of ponies that want to beat my flank in”

Night Stalker spotted an earth pony by the bar slam his drink back down as his drunk eyes moved towards the unicorn that was fixing the speaker. “So why are you in a nightclub if you dislike loud and large groups?”

“Cheap drinks and my friends said they would be here,” Fix It groaned. “Unfortunately they didn’t show up and now I am I risk of being murdered in a speaker”

“I’ll buy you a drink for helping out,” Vinyl Scratch tapped the speaker as she turned to the guards. “You don’t mind waiting until this gets fixed do ya?”

“Not at all,” Matrix nodded to the DJ. “So long as Nopony causes a problem we should be…”

“HURRY THE BUCK UP!” the drunk earth pony Night Stalker had his eye on had finally stood up. “I came here to party but all I got was some unicorn stuck in a speaker!”

Fix It poked one of his hooves out, “Not stuck! Just fixing!”

Night Stalker rubbed his eyes, “Please don’t let this drunk try something”

“I outta teach this unicorn about how to fix something that is broken!” the earth pony began to stagger towards the speaker and the two guards. “Git outta my way!” he barked at the two pegasi, obviously oblivious to the fact that they were guards

Matrix prepared to move into a fighting stance but Night Stalker had already stepped forward and jabbed the earth pony in the neck, cutting off his air supply as he passed out and collapsed

“Well he certainly got his chance to get down on the dance floor,” Night Stalker chuckled before looking back at Matrix and Fix It. “What?”

“Do you normally say something witty every time you hit somepony?” Fix It asked as he climbed out of the speaker and sealed it up. “I’m done by the way”

“Thanks!” Vinyl Scratch climbed back behind her turntables as the speakers began blasting out music again, the beats got the crowd cheering as Matrix and Night Stalker lifted the unconscious earth pony

Fix It followed the guards with a smile, “mind if I follow you outside? I have nothing else to do”

“Sure, we need a witness report anyway,” Night Stalker looked around at the dancing ponies. “Let’s go before something big drops”

As the Pegasus finished his sentence the beat dropped and the ponies began to dance even harder. Matrix and Fix It both looked at Night Stalker as he shrugged

“You are smooth you know that?” Fix It chuckled

Matrix glared at the unicorn, “What about me?”

“Your stripes are cool but I haven’t seen you do anything,” Fix It shrugged. “Nothing personal”

Chapter 58

The flight to Manehatten remained silent, with the exception of Odio mumbling complaints every now and then. Dave occasionally glanced at the depressed Strong Shield before looking down at the ground far below them

Adamas kept the flap of his wings slow and gentle, keeping himself moving enough to glide. His eyes narrowed slightly as his vision focused on a city on the edge of the horizon

“We are approaching the city,” Adamas arched his neck to see Dave nod and Strong Shield snap out of his thoughts as he looked in the direction of the city

Strong Shield nodded, “drop us off at the train yard, on the far side”

“Will anypony panic?” Dave called to the dragon

“I will hide myself again, the use of magic is almost second nature to me now,” Adamas almost smirked. “Nopony should see me, just concentrate on your parts of this mission”

Strong Shield nodded, “Fine, just get us there fast, we have to get the Daedalus moving”

“How long will the journey take?” Dave yelled to Strong Shield as Adamas began to fly faster and the noise of the wind picked up

“It depends on where the track has moved,” Strong Shield held onto the dragon’s spikes as the wind began to sting. “If it has stayed near the surface then it shouldn’t take more than a day, but if some parts have fallen underground then it could take up to three days”

Odio groaned, “Woopidy doo daa!” Odio cheered sarcastically, “three days in some metal tin with grumpy and unlucky”

“I will make haste for Tartarus once I have dropped you off,” Adamas didn’t have to focus his attention as he easily spotted the web of train tracks that were lined with large warehouses. The multiple tracks were all lined up neatly, a few crossed over to join them and a few short ones sprouted from the front on some of the buildings

The dragon opened his wings and decreased his speed, his passengers held on as the large drake shuddered, and his scales seemed to merge into one single surface before disappearing completely

The ground seemed to approach at an alarming rate before it suddenly stopped, the passengers still felt the gentle flapping of Adamas’ wings. Dave and Strong Shield exchanged glances before slowly sliding off the invisible dragon

Dave fell and rolled across the ground, pushing himself to his feet with a groan as he looked up at his father. “Oh come on,” he glared as he saw Strong Shield being helped down by Odio’s fog

“What?” Odio placed Strong Shield on the ground before retracting his fog back into Dave’s body. “He can’t heal and you can, I would prefer it if he didn’t get a broken hip”

“I’ll have you know that I have fallen out of a burning skyscraper,” Strong Shield looked at the various warehouses. “I may have been responsible for it blowing up but that is in the past”

Odio laughed, “Was it being run by evil vampires?”

“No a group of terrorists had taken control over it, taken hostages,” Strong Shield began leading Dave towards some old warehouses as they heard the dragon above them fly away. “I saved the hostages, went back into the building to dispatch the leader before blowing the main support pillar and caused the top half to separate and fall to the ground”

“How did you survive?” Dave rose an eyebrow as they began to walk between some of the large buildings

“A few terrorists were pegasi so I simply fought them until I reached the ground,” Strong Shield looked at the buildings as they reached a gap between some of the buildings, metal stairs went up to a walkway that was suspended between the long rows of warehouses

Dave followed the unicorn up the stairs, his feet tapped against the rusting metal as he reached the long, flat walkway. “So where is this Daedalus then?” Dave asked as he looked between the gaps of the buildings and saw Manehatten was still a mile away

“If I remember correctly…” Strong Shield pointed to the other end of the long walkway, a wooden wall signalled the end of the path. “Right through there”

“Oh a secret door?” Odio swirled happily. “I bet I can find the secret switch”

“No,” Strong Shield sighed. “I’m afraid we have to bash through and climb down”

Dave chuckled, “Bash through? Can’t you use magic?”

“No, the Daedalus emits a dampening field,” the unicorn frowned at the thick wood. “A full powered blast would turn into a spark the moment it touches the wood”

The human groaned as he crouched down and got ready to sprint at the wall. “I’ll let you know when it is safe to join me”

Strong Shield nodded as he stepped aside and allowed Dave to charge at the wall, getting as much speed as he could as he approached the thick wood. He gave a final burst of speed before launching his shoulder first into the wood

Thunk!

“HOLY SHIT!” Dave held his arm as he bounced away from the dense wood. “That hurt like a bitch!”

Odio laughed as Strong Shield shook his head. “Try and break one piece of wood rather than the entire wall”

Dave took a step back before bringing his foot up and stamping his heel into the centre plank of wood. The wood remained solid but it definitely gained a dent, encouraging Dave to keep kicking at that spot until his foot finally went through, sharp wood scraping his legs

“That is one hell of a splinter,” Odio winced as Dave slowly pulled his leg out and revealed the large nail that was stuck in his shin. The human yelped as Strong Shield grabbed it with his teeth and yanked it out, Odio quickly assisted with Dave’s healing so his leg was better in seconds

“Thanks for the warning guys,” Dave groaned as he shook his healed leg. His eyes hovered over the nail before he took it from Strong Shield, the length of the metal was enough for Dave to hold it with both hands and still have the point clearly revealed. An idea flashed across his mind as he began to stab at the wood with the sharp metal, leaving scrapes and cuts throughout the wood

Strong Shield stood back as he saw Dave’s plan and allowed the human to hack at the wood until the nail finally bent sharply to one side. Dave threw the nail aside as he rammed his shoulder against the damaged wall, the wood bent as it broke in some places. Another ram was all it took for Dave to burst through and fall into the dark warehouse

“Wow, great mood lighting,” Odio hummed as he pushed some of his fog out of Dave and looked around the blackness, the only light was the small amount pouring in through the hole Dave had made

Strong Shield grunted as he fired a ball of light into the air, it flickered as it slowly disappeared within feet of leaving Strong Shield’s horn. “This is the right warehouse”

“You mean you weren’t certain?” Dave groaned as he pushed himself off the ground, dusting off his hands as he looked back up at the hole he had made, Strong Shield poking his head through

The unicorn looked at the drop and carefully jumped through the wooden hole, he landed on his hooves before looking around. “There should be a generator nearby, find it so we can get some light”

Dave groaned as Strong Shield looked at him again. Dave began walking along the wall of the warehouse, his fingers touching the wood so he didn’t get lost as his other hand made sweeping motions in front of him

He reached the corner and his hand bumped into something metal. His hand fumbled around the metal box until he found a lever that he was able to slowly turn. The generator coughed into life and began shaking violently as it began to produce power for the simple lights that were suspended from the ceiling

The lights flickered slightly before turning fully on and illuminating the room. One light exploded from its sudden activation and a few sparks rained down onto the large black arrow in the middle of the room

“Holy fuck,” Dave gawped as the Daedalus came into view. Its shape was perfectly smooth, two sides were visible as the point of the train was only an inch from the ground. The wheels weren’t visible and only some of the track still poked above the ground

Strong Shield sighed as he walked over to the train and slowly inspected it. The point raised slowly into the ground before it levelled off and formed the rest of the triangular train. The back was just another long point that almost touched one of the walls

“This is a demonic bullet train,” Odio chuckled. “But how do we get in? I can’t see any doors”

The unicorn began to place both hooves onto the train and push his weight against it, muttering angrily every time nothing happened. Eventually stopping as two parallel cracks appeared and a flap lifted up and revealed a way in

Strong Shield walked in first and Dave quickly followed, Odio’s fog soaking back into his body as he climbed aboard. He leaned back out of the train to grab a handle on the hatch door to close it as he looked around the interior of the Daedalus

The walls were smooth in here as well, except the only triangular parts were at either end of the train. The rest was a normal carriage large enough for Dave to do a full fitness workout without the fear of hitting the sides

Strong Shield walked over to a control panel, a few round buttons extended from the walls and two long pipes were directly in the centre. The unicorn slowly placed his hooves into the holes and the engine roared into life, the noise made Dave jump as the train filled with a red glow

“What is going on?” Dave asked as he walked over to Strong Shield, his hooves moved further into the pipes before they closed and locked his legs in place. A few black poles of metal poked out from the walls and supported Strong Shield’s weight, the buttons slid upwards so the unicorn could use his horn to push them

“I have activated the Daedalus,” Strong Shield took a deep breath as he looked at the buttons. “The door is locked and we are ready to go”

Strong Shield used his horn to press one button and the wall in front of him became transparent, allowing him to see the wall of the warehouse ahead. Dave sat on the ground behind the unicorn as he rubbed his neck

“So is there a door or what?” Dave asked as Strong Shield took a final breath

“There will be in a second,” he sighed as he pushed his hooves forward slightly and the train shot forwards, obliterating the wall and began to carve a trench through the train yard

The speed made Dave topple backwards and roll towards the back of the train. The Daedalus stuck to its own track as it began to tunnel into the ground, Strong Shield’s viewport was slowly being replaced by ground that the train was pushing trough

As the Daedalus surfaced again, an approaching mountain made Dave gawp. “Please tell me this track avoids that mountain!”

The track still headed towards the mountain but tilted so the Daedalus began to roll, causing Dave to fall and roll around the inside but new metal poles constantly appeared to keep Strong Shield in position

The Daedalus didn’t lose speed as it smashed through the mountain and Dave continued with his falling and tumbling like a sock in a tumble dryer. Strong Shield looked over his shoulder as he saw Dave bounce against his face

“If you are desperate then I can activate the prisoner restraints,” Strong Shield saw a thumbs up and a pleading smile as an indication to press a button beside his head. For spikes appeared at the rear of the train and shot out in Dave’s direction

The human had enough time to yell in pain as the spears pierced his wrists and ankles. He saw the spear split in half and curl around his limbs as they retracted and pulled him to the back of the train, pinning him helplessly as the Daedalus continued to scar the landscape

“You could have warned me that I was going to be FUCKING CRUCIFIED!” Dave yelled down the train at Strong Shield

“Look on the bright side,” Odio chuckled. “At least you aren’t being tossed around like a ragdoll”

Dave groaned as Odio began to make more jokes, laughing loudly to himself every time Dave began to lose attention. Strong Shield constantly kept his eyes focused on the view ahead, making sure that he had enough time to stop the train if a random pony appeared in front of him

A few hours later…

“Are we there yet?” Dave groaned from his wall

“No,” Strong Shield yawned, his view of the outside had been dirt for the past two hours, a few rotations had kept things interesting but nothing interesting

“I spy with my little eye,” Odio sighed out of boredom. “Something beginning with… w”

Dave looked around the plain and simple train. “Wall?”

“Correct,” Odio groaned as he began poking at Dave’s mind again. “This is driving ME nuts and I spent a thousand years in space by myself”

The human groaned in agreement, “yeah, can we stop for a bit?”

“I suppose we could have something to eat,” Strong Shield hummed. “We will have to wait until we are outside or in a large cave if I am to get far enough away from the Daedalus to summon some ration packs”

“Fine,” Dave sighed. “I could do with a break from being Jesus”

Odio chuckled, “All you need is the beard, besides that you have already died for our sins”

“That was your fault,” Dave growled. “And don’t forget the fact that you still kinda owe me”

“Hey, I made you immortal didn’t I?” Odio snapped

“Will you both shut up?” Strong Shield looked over his shoulder to yell at the pair of squabbling beings. All of them became silent as the train shook and lurched in various directions, Dave groaned as he was pulled on the spikes that kept him in place

Strong Shield pulled back on the pipes that he was connected to as he looked out the viewport. His view was hidden by a black smudge but he could see a large cave that stretched out just enough for him to get out of the Daedalus’ influence.

“It is a bit dark but I think I can see a space that is far enough away,” Strong Shield narrowed his eyes as he tried to get a better view of the outside

“I’ll be fine here,” Dave gritted his teeth as his arms healed around the metal again. “Just go get some food”

“Alright, I’ll be quick,” Strong Shield pressed a button and he was released from his supports. “Odio, come with me, you might be able to counter the Daedalus in case we can’t get enough distance between us and it”

Odio‘s fog poured out of Dave’s body as his flaming eyes flashed into life. “Oh I love being helpful, you know me,” he groaned sarcastically as he followed Strong Shield out of the hatch

Dave allowed his head to drop as he rested his eyes. “Maybe a short nap before they get back.” The sound of hoovesteps made Dave gently flap one of his hands. “I’m alright dad, I’m not dead”

“That’s good,” A familiar female voice said happily. The sound of the hoovesteps approaching Dave made his eyes open as he looked up

“Oh shit”

Chapter 59

“Nope, no, uh uh,” Dave shook his head as he tried to pull at his restraints. “Not happening, go to hell, not in a million years”

“I would have thought that you would have been pleased to see your queen again,” Chrysalis smiled as she placed one of her hooves on Dave’s chest

“DAD!” Dave yelled as he continued to squirm, his worried frown moved over to the changeling queen. “Can you please step back?”

Chrysalis smiled as she looked at Dave’s restraints, “Oh you seem to be stuck, how… unfortunate”

Dave’s eyes widened as Chrysalis placed her hooves around his neck, “Yeah I am kinda busy and you really shouldn’t be here”

“I should not be here?” Chrysalis laughed quietly as she rubbed her nose against Dave’s. “You are the one that dug into my hive”

“Wait, we crashed into your hive?” Dave frowned, his concentration was broken as a loud thud hit the side of the train. “What was that?” Dave muttered before remembering that he was in a vulnerable position and the changeling queen seemed to be making the most of it

Chrysalis licked Dave’s cheek as she used her hooves to keep Dave’s head still as she aimed for Dave’s mouth. “It is probably nothing, we wouldn’t want to be distracted now would we?”

“Alright, you’ve had your fun,” Strong Shield groaned as he pulled Chrysalis away from Dave and began pushing her to the door

Odio swirled into the Daedalus with a frown. “The changelings tried to jump us but your dad seemed to handle himself quite well”

Chrysalis hopped away from Strong Shield and lowered her horn. “I will punish you for standing in my way!” she snarled as her horn glowed, a beam of green light shot towards Strong Shield but it only travelled a few inches before it simply faded away

“Yeah, even with your power the Daedalus can still have an effect,” Strong Shield narrowed his eye. “So that means I have the advantage due to my physical prowess”

Chrysalis snarled, “but will you have the strength to defeat my entire swarm?” her eyes glanced between the unicorn, the fog and the human as her wings began to vibrate and produce a loud buzzing

From the outside of the Daedalus the rest of the changelings began to buzz in response to their queen. Their eyes appearing at the door as they glared at the passengers in the prison train

“Wait,” Dave called from his restraints. “Can we make a deal?”

Chrysalis narrowed her eyes at Dave, “what do you propose?”

“Dinner,” Dave shook his head as Chrysalis’ eyes lit up. “Not what you think, just let us have dinner, we can talk and I will let you know how I choked the Gryphon general”

The changeling queen smiled as she fluttered eye eyes at Dave, “Well that would make an excellent conversation starter”

Dave nodded before looking at the cautious Strong Shield, “Can you let me down? I’m not really into bondage”

“Yeah I was debating when I should have told Strong Shield that Chrysalis was going to rape you,” Odio huffed as he began looking at the buttons at the front of the train, eventually pressing one and the restraints retracted back into the wall and allowed Dave to fall to his feet

Strong Shield frowned at the changeling queen, “if I suspect a single bit of treachery then I will take action,” he growled before stepping off the train, Odio close behind him

“If we could go to a dining room then that would be great,” Dave rubbed his healing wrists before stepping of the train, the humid and damp smell of the hive instantly reached his nostrils. “No changelings other than yourself though”

“My sister will be joining us,” Chrysalis stepped beside Dave, standing close to him before he took a small step away. “But I have no dining room, the best I can offer is a small modification to the throne room

Dave reluctantly nodded and followed the queen down one of the tunnels that delved deeper into the hive. He looked back at the Daedalus had crashed through the ceiling and had rammed through a few pillars before stopping at one of the walls

Strong Shield walked alongside Dave whilst Odio floated behind them, his flaming eyes looked at the changelings that scurried along the walls and the ceiling. Dave followed Chrysalis, ignoring the obvious hip swaying that she was displaying in his direction

“Hey, if I didn’t know any better,” Odio hummed as he whispered in Dave’s ear. “I would say that she is hitting on you”

“I noticed,” Dave groaned as he didn’t notice Chrysalis had stopped and walked into her flank

“Oh Dave,” Chrysalis smiled. “If you really wanted we could go somewhere more private,” she winked

Dave groaned as he stepped back, “you are really desperate you know that?”

Odio had to refrain from giggling as Chrysalis flicked Dave with her tail and began leading the way again. Strong Shield continued to glance between the changelings before noticing a large door, the surface was made of various carapaces but it still had the vague shape

Chrysalis’ horn glowed and the door opened, allowing the group to enter before closing it behind them, the changeling swarm buzzed before scattering to attend whatever duties they required

A throne sat in the middle of the round room, a few black beams connected the top of the throne to the surrounding walls. A few gaps in the walls seemed to lean into small rooms, a few pieces of random junk poked out from some of the gaps

“Kleptomaniac,” Odio chuckled as he flew up and peeked in some of the gaps. “You use this room more like a storeroom than a throne room”

“This is my personal area,” Chrysalis snarled. “I recommend that you keep your prying eyes to yourself”

Dave indicated for Odio to float down before the door opened again and Princess Larva walked in, her face suddenly beamed as she saw Dave. Chrysalis’ horn glowed as a flash of light brought a large block into the centre of the room and a few hallow shells the size of bowls appeared

“Why is it that creatures that shouldn’t get into relationships all seem to want to get into a relationship with me?” Dave groaned as Larva skipped over, her joy obvious as she sat next to her sister

“Probably because you seem to break every rule,” Odio chuckled. “You physically resist this world, spiritually resist magic, and emotionally attach to every royal being from here to the end of the world”

Dave sighed as he sat down at the improvised table, Strong Shield sat beside him whilst Odio had compacted his fog into a simplified humanoid shape, his hands replaced with a few wisps that constantly morphed shape

Chrysalis and Larva sat down opposite the three adventurers as they smiled, “so would you like some of our food?”

Strong Shield snorted, “I am summoning some rations, and you can keep your goo”

Odio chuckled, “I don’t have a stomach so… yeah”

Dave shook his hands as all eyes turned to him, “I’m fine with my dad’s space food”

Chrysalis sighed, “If you are our guest you must really try a little bit of our cuisine”

“Fine,” Dave groaned. “Just a small bit”

Larva leaned over the table and her long tongue fell into Dave’s bowl. Her tongue shook slightly as the bowl began to fill with a light green substance

“I made that especially,” Larva smiled as she sat back in her spot, leaving Dave with a disgusted expression

“That… was… revolting,” Dave stared at the jelly in his bowl. “I am not eating your spit”

Odio laughed as he looked into Dave’s bowl, “you don’t have a problem eating honey.” He smirked as Dave glared at him, “just think of how much it looks like mountain dew”

Dave took a deep breath as he lifted the bowl to his lips, the stench of the goo reminded him of lemons and rotting wood. A combination that didn’t reassure him as he tilted his head back and allowed the thick and viscous sludge to slowly fall pour into his mouth

The taste was completely indescribable as Dave heaved but managed to keep all the gunk in his mouth. The goo was sticky as it made it hard for Dave to move his tongue around his mouth, his teeth not able to grind anything as Dave slowly began to swallow the goo piece by piece

Chrysalis and Larva both smiled sweetly as Dave forced the liquid love into his stomach. As he felt the goo slowly run down into his stomach, his eyes widened and his body felt warm, like the way he did when he proposed to Celestia

“Whoa,” Dave held his head as he rested his elbows on the table. “That stuff sure packs a punch”

“It is the love we feed on,” Chrysalis’ bowl was now full of the green sludge and her tongue lapped at the goo. “It provides the feeling of love and the sample my sister gave you was of the highest quality”

Larva tipped her head to Dave, “Did you enjoy it?”

“Y-yeah I suppose,” Dave coughed as he felt the leftovers continue to slowly run down into his stomach. He smiled as Strong Shield dropped some strawberries, “thanks,” Dave said quickly as he scoffed the strawberries to get the taste out of his mouth

Strong Shield had some slices of melon and sat quietly as he ate. “We should sleep once we have done this, we can lock the Daedalus from the interior”

Dave nodded, “yeah we should get some rest while the Daedalus is still upright”

Chrysalis and Larva both glanced at each other before Chrysalis quickly leant forwards. “If you prefer, you can sleep here”

“We will sleep in the train,” Strong Shield glared. “I don’t trust you for obvious reasons”

Chrysalis snarled at the unicorn. “I could easily have my swarm bash against your pathetic train and make sure you don’t get the chance to sleep”

“We could easily drive a bit further ahead to get our sleep,” Odio glared. “Well… for them to sleep, I just pull an all-nighter to play games”

Larva placed her hooves on the table top, her amber mane draped onto the table, “Well I think that sleeping in here would be much more comfortable”

“I prefer the train,” Strong Shield spat. “No matter what you threaten, I am not going to be forced”

Odio nodded, “yeah, I prefer the indestructible train to keep a nice barricade between me and you”

All eyes turned to Dave again as he looked between his traveling companions and the two royals opposite. “W-well I um…”

“If Dave sleeps here then I will make sure you all get a good night’s rest,” Chrysalis looked at Strong Shield as he hummed

Strong Shield nodded, “deal, see you in the morning Dave”

Dave gawped as Odio and Strong Shield both left him alone with the royal changelings. “Well… I think I had better hit the hay, I have a long day tomorrow”

Dave slowly stood up and backed away from the changelings as they smiled, their tongues poked out of their mouths as they began to creep around and over the table their hungry gazes on Dave

“We wouldn’t want to be bad hosts now would we sister?” Chrysalis smiled as Dave was backed into a corner

Larva licked her lips as Dave gulped, “I still want to taste his love from the source”

“You are both really freaking me out,” Dave held his hands up as the changelings got closer. “Did I tell you I was engaged to Celestia and Luna is now my other marefriend?”

Dave’s attempts to stop the changelings in their tracks failed as Chrysalis almost seemed spurred on at the mention of Celestia’s name

“We don’t mind sharing,” Chrysalis smiled as she approached Dave. “And now we know you are more willing to have multiple lovers then we are more than willing to join”

“I NEVER INVITED YOU!” Dave groaned loudly as Chrysalis stood on her hind legs and placed her forelegs on either side of Dave’s head. Larva nuzzled herself against Dave’s chest as she listened to his heartbeat

“Does Dave have a lot of love?” Larva whispered to her sister as she fluttered her eyes at Dave

“Oh yes,” Chrysalis sighed as she sniffed Dave. “He is absolutely full of love that he is willing to share”

Dave quickly ducked under Chrysalis’ legs as he hopped away from the pair of sisters. Chrysalis smiled as she looked back at Dave, swishing her tail to draw his eyes to her body

“Is he playing hard to get?” Larva smiled deviously. “Because I love a challenge”

“This is going to be a long night,” Dave sighed

Chapter 60

Celestia yawned as she was given a plate of celery, tomatoes and various flowers. Luna had just woken up and was passed her usual bowl of porridge topped with jam and syrup. Both sisters smiled at each other as the servants left them to eat

“So has anything interesting occurred today?” Luna asked as she levitated a spoonful of porridge to her mouth and she began to blow on it

“I’m afraid nothing has happened except things to look forward to,” Celestia sighed. “Applejack has invited Nox and I to come and have dinner with her family”

Luna smiled, “Nox and Applebloom make a nice pair don’t they?”

“Yes,” Celestia was about to eat one of her flowers before she stopped herself. “I don’t suppose you have seen Dave today have you?”

“No actually,” Luna tapped her chin. “I haven’t seen Strong Shield or Odio for that matter”

The princess of the sun sighed as she shook her head, “If they have gone away for another few days drinking then I am going to lose it”

“I’m sure Dave would have let us known if he was going on a small trip with his friends,” Luna tilted her head. “We have all of eternity together, we can allow him to spend a night or two away”

“That’s not the problem,” Celestia placed her fork down. “I just hate the way he sneaks off or just simply disappears… do you think he fears us? That we might say no?”

Luna gasped, “Dave loves us and he has never been afraid of us… that is what made him so unique in the first place”

“I suppose you are right little sister,” Celestia smiled again. “Have you and him spent any time together yet?”

“If you mean a date then no, not really,” Luna sighed sadly. “It may be a bit difficult for Dave to stay up permanently if he wants to see both of us constantly”

Celestia nodded as she began to eat. “If we sort out a timetable then we could organise something like…” the white alicorn tapped her chin. “Dave sleeps around midday and midnight so he can spend time with us as we are settling into our latter roles and maybe join us when we go to… the bedroom”

“You like to bring up that subject don’t you?” Luna blushed slightly as she saw her sister smiling. “Does it really feel that good?”

Celestia’s smile grew, “The physical act itself is enjoyable but the feeling I get when I know I am making Dave feel as good as he makes me is… indescribable”

“But you have spent many nights with Dave,” Luna tapped her hooves together nervously. “What if my inexperience makes it bad?”

“Would you like to know a secret?” Celestia looked around the room before leaning closer to her sister. “The first time me and Dave made love we… accidentally head-butted each other”

Luna had to place a hoof over her mouth to stop herself from spitting out her porridge. “Tia, why would you both do that?”

“Me and Dave are separate species,” Celestia poked at her food. “The first time we made love it was a very clumsy and complicated activity”

“But what about now?” Luna asked with wonder in her eyes

“Well Dave definitely does more than his fair share to make sure I get my enjoyment,” Celestia paused for a moment. “Sometimes I think he is happy enough knowing I am happy,” the alicorn shook herself out of her thought bubble as she smiled at Luna. “But you will have to find out for yourself”

Luna blushed slightly, “Well I am happy enough knowing that Dave loves me enough to hold me, let alone… indulge himself with me”

“When you first experience it my little sister,” Celestia winked. “You won’t think twice if you get another chance”

The princess of the night almost turned completely red, “Well have you got any advice?”

“Oh yes,” Celestia’s eyes lit up. “For now, get him to use his… fingers”

Meanwhile…

Dave sighed as he repositioned himself, his back held up a piece of wood that separated his small space from the two changelings outside. His feet were perched up in another small gap as his hands began to poke at some of the clutter around him

He lifted up a small spearhead and moved it further away. He rolled his eyes as something tapped the wood behind him. Dave sat forwards and pulled the wood down enough to see Chrysalis’ eyes staring at him from her sleeping space, Larva was tucked into her own space on the other side

“Can I help you?” Dave sighed as Chrysalis peeked into Dave’s blocked off pod

“You never did tell us why you were in that large train,” the changeling queen hummed

Dave sighed as he looked back into his dark sleeping place, “let’s just say I am doing this to protect my family… as always”

“Why don’t you let everypony sort their own problems?” Chrysalis whispered, her eyes glanced to Larva who stirred in her sleep. “I mean… you could have anything, take everything… but you don’t”

“When Odio empowered me before I did think about it,” Dave sighed. “Not just a passing thought but… I began to make real plans before I decided to scrap it”

Chrysalis shuffled into a more relaxed position as she looked back at Dave, “So you are doing all this for others?”

“For my family,” Dave rose an eyebrow as he noticed a small red cushion in the shape of a heart. “You can understand that”

“I suppose I can,” Chrysalis sighed as she looked across at her sleeping sister. “She needed love and I promised that I would get it for her.” Chrysalis sat up as she turned to Dave, “But in the end it was you that restored her strength and it was you that saved her”

Dave held the red cushion as he gave a small chuckle, “I thought that if I saved your family then at least losing mine wouldn’t have hurt so much”

“Why do you refuse our offers of sharing love?” Chrysalis tilted her head. “We don’t just drain everything you know”

Dave rubbed his eyes as he placed the pillow aside, “I have had enough problems trying to be with Celestia, now I am with Luna too and I just don’t want to risk adding somepony else and losing everything”

“So you do have feelings for us?” Chrysalis’ ears pricked up as a small smile grew on her face

“No, well…” Dave groaned as he looked through the gap at the changeling queen. “I think you and your sister are nice, maybe you do make wrong decisions about things but you mean well”

Chrysalis smiled as she looked back at Dave, “Is it alright if we can move this wood aside? I promise not to try anything you aren’t comfortable with”

Dave sighed before sitting up and moving the wood out of the way, Chrysalis moved to one side and allowed Dave to lay down properly. She laid back down and rested her head on his chest and shuffled beside him

“If your hoof goes anywhere below my waist then I have a problem,” Dave sighed as he finally rested in a comfortable position

Chrysalis nuzzled Dave’s chest as his fingers stroked her silky mane. “Goodnight Dave”

“Goodnight Chrysalis,” Dave yawned as he closed his eyes and sleep began to take over

“GOODNIGHT EVERYPONY!” Odio yelled as he smiled at Dave. “Oh I didn’t realize you were dumping Celestia for these butterflies”

Dave growled as he looked at the fog, “It isn’t what you think Odio, go away”

“Fine,” Odio sighed as he floated back down the throne room and out the door. Dave replaced his head but noticed Larva was now smiling down at him. “No I am not having sex with you”

“Aww but,” Princess Larva pouted playfully but her sister’s glare made her stop

Chrysalis looked back at Dave with a small sigh, “he has allowed us to cuddle, nothing more”

Larva nodded before laying down on the other side of Dave and shuffling into his other arm. “Are you sure Dave doesn’t want us to make him feel…”

“Larva!” Chrysalis hissed. “Dave said he wants to get some rest, at least be kind enough to allow him that,” the changeling queen nuzzled back against Dave’s chest as she closed her eyes

Dave gave a half-hearted smile to Larva as she attempted to go to sleep as well, using Dave’s shoulder as a pillow. Dave’s gaze moved across to the other changeling as he lost his smile, his view and assumptions of the queen completely changed during their little conversation

“God dammit,” Dave whispered quietly to himself as he reached down and kissed Chrysalis’ head. He rested his own head back down as he felt the queen cuddle closer against him as he fell asleep

…

Dave groaned as he felt his arms being restrained above his head, his legs were being restrained down and the rest of his body felt tight and sore. He managed to open his eyes to see a desk, a logbook was laid open across the flat surface

Dave looked at his arms and he instantly began to panic, the restraints from the Daedalus covered his arms, dried blood covering most of the black metal. He looked down and saw his legs were being pulled down in a similar fashion and his body was also sharing the same fate. The connecting chains reached into the darkness and out of Dave’s view

“What the hell is going on?” Dave groaned as he struggled against the restraints, his body shook with pain from him trying to move his arm so he decided to wait

“You were restrained in the prison train Daedalus,” a voice echoed around Dave. “True or false?”

Dave looked around for the source of the voice but couldn’t see anything except the table and logbook, “uh… true”

The ledger made a scribbling noise as one of the pages began to fill with words that were illegible to Dave. “The driver’s mind believes you are to spend one of your days inside Tartarus.” The voice echoed as coldly as the last time. “True or false?”

“Driver?” Dave racked his brain before he made the connection. “Oh dad drove the train… yeah true!” He called to the void around him

“What crime did you commit?” the voice asked again, the logbook fell silent as Dave waited to respond

“Um… none,” Dave answered. His response was met with silence before a pair of metal hooks pierced Dave’s face and yanked his head back

The voice returned with a greater tone of curiosity. “So why are you entering Tartarus if you haven’t committed a crime?”

“I’m looking for something,” Dave managed to say through his stretched face. “I need to find it to protect somepony”

“Something is volunteering for a stay in Tartarus?” the voice hummed. “The warden will like to meet you at some point during your stay… now I will give you your mark”

“Mark?” Dave groaned as he felt all the restraints retract from his left arm. He managed to move his eye enough to see his arm get pulled in front of his body and towards the desk. “What the hell is going on?”

“All inmates are marked before entry to Tartarus,” The voice responded unemotionally in a way that made Dave almost wonder what made the creature behind it would find unnerving. “You are now Inmate 1EC”

The back of Dave’s forearm was turned upright and three metal bands flew from nowhere to snap around his arm and tighten painfully. His designated mark appeared on the bands before they slowly grew brighter

“What is going on?” Dave gritted his teeth as the bands began to burn and sizzling noises came from beneath the metal. “Argh, I think you have done enough!” Dave held back a scream of agony as the pain managed to become more intense. “AH! FUCKING STOP!”

“No,” the voice whispered into Dave’s ear. “We need to make sure we BURN the very mark onto your soul,” the voices breath rolled across Dave’s face as the lights became blinding to him. “If you have any children then they will be born burnt”

Dave finally let ought the scream of pain as the bands continued to get hotter and hotter. His hand began to spasm as he began to believe what the voice said

“This was only the preparation room, you will awaken soon and continue on your journey, when you arrive in Tartarus, present your mark to the reception desk and you will be entered into the prison,” the voice said calmly, his voice still loud enough for Dave to hear over his own screams.

“But I shall give you a warning Inmate 1EC… you may leave Tartarus but Tartarus will never leave you”

Chapter 61

Dave awoke screaming, his left arm burning with agony as he clutched it with his other hand. The royal changelings that had fallen asleep at his side were thrown wide awake as they head Dave’s cry of anguish

“What’s wrong?” Chrysalis placed a hoof on Dave as he slowly pried his hand away from his arm. “What is that?” the queen asked as she saw the letters that were branded into Dave’s forearm

The letters were black and were written in an elegant yet unnerving text. The three letters stretched across Dave’s left forearm, blackness covering from the back of his wrist to the top of his elbow. The bottom of his arm was still healthy and smooth

“What the?” Dave still shook as he looked his arm, his finger traced along the outside of the flat burn. His body shivered as he continued to stare at the brand on his arm, “My dad has to know something”

Dave rolled out of the hole in the wall and landed on the ground, taking off at full sprint as the royal changelings were still getting up. The human not wasting time as he bashed the door open and began running down the dark corridors, the sound of the buzzing hive filled his ears

Dave ran out into the large central clearing and saw the Daedalus was still imbedded in the wall. He ran at the smooth surface before he began pounding his fists against the side of the train

“DAD!” Dave hit the train, desperately searching for the hatch. His ponding eventually gained a response as the hatch slid open and Strong Shield poked his head out

“Is everything alright?” the unicorn asked before Dave grabbed him by the throat and held his scared arm in front of his eye

“Did you know this would happen?” Dave growled. “I swear to god if you knew this was going to happen I will fucking KILL YOU!”

Strong Shield wrapped his front hooves around Dave’s arms before using his rear hooves to push Dave away and escape his grasp. “I don’t know what happened, just tell me what is going on”

“Last night I was strung up like a prize pig and fucking branded!” Dave held his arm up again. “This is only a goddamn identity mark! The worst hasn’t even happened!”

Odio floated out of the Daedalus’ open hatch and chuckled at Dave, “Wow, I am loving your Tatau, what skills did you get?”

“The skill of GO FUCK YOURSELF!” Dave snapped. “This isn’t going away and it hurt more than you can ever imagine”

Odio sighed, “Don’t worry I can help you get rid of it.” The black fog floated over before he slowly wrapped a tendril around Dave’s arm. “No let’s see what we have OW FUCKING HELLS TIT BELLS!”

Odio’s eyes shook and deformed as his fog began to split and crackle as red lightning bounced across his body. His voice began to vary in pitch, his voice almost breaking into separate frequencies before his fog turned into a black tar and fell to the ground

Dave looked at his arm and saw the large mark was still there. “What happened?”

“Strong Shield,” Odio groaned in pain as his fog began to slowly rise out of the tar. “This is on your head… and I wouldn’t blame Dave if he ripped it off”

The black unicorn looked at Dave will concern, “What’s wrong?”

“Oh nothing, only being hurled into the sun by your testicles would hurt less,” Odio growled as he looked at Dave. “And I am guessing it hurt less actually having that thing burned into the very fabric of who you are”

“You have no idea,” Dave snarled as he looked at Strong Shield, his eyes full of hatred as he heard the buzzing of wings behind him. The human turned to see Chrysalis and Larva fly over and land in front of him. “What do you two want?”

Chrysalis sniffed Dave’s marked arm as she looked up at his glare. “What is going on?”

“A lot of shit that I can’t be bothered to explain,” Dave snapped as he turned back to the Daedalus. “I should have listened to everypony else and not bothered with all this crap!”

“We are doing this to protect others remember?” Strong Shield sighed as Dave clenched his fists

“Maybe they should learn to protect themselves every now and then,” Dave snarled as he stepped into the Daedalus, pausing to lean back out and point at Chrysalis. “Oh and you have to show up in Canterlot someday soon otherwise I am going to let the gryphons tear this place apart”

Odio floated past Strong Shield with a growl, leaving the unicorn to drop his head and climb onto the train. Strong Shield closed the hatch behind him before connecting himself with the driver’s seat again

“The voice said that you acknowledged me as the prisoner,” Dave narrowed his eyes at Strong Shield. “Does that mean the same voice talked to you?”

Strong Shield looked at his hooves that connected him to the train. “The Daedalus must work on a form of telepathy, I know that you are going into Tartarus so the train must have intercepted that thought”

“Great,” Dave kicked the wall as he snarled. “Just fucking brilliant!”

Odio floated over to Strong Shield as Dave began pacing along the train. “Listen, if Dave tries to hurt you then I will protect you, because I know that he isn’t in the right frame of mind right now”

“I’m ready for the ‘but’ part,” Strong Shield turned his head to look at Dave

“But,” Odio snarled. “If Dave suffers and wants you dead then I will do it personally, because I can make it worse”

“The last thing I wanted was for Dave to get hurt,” Strong Shield’s ears fell against his head as he began to speed up the Daedalus

Odio snorted, “yeah but you don’t mind so long as your personal vendetta gets resolved”

Dave sat at the far end of the Daedalus, glaring as his arm. The black letters stood out even in the dim light, almost constantly mocking him as he pulled his sleeve back over the mark and closed his eyes

Odio floated beside Dave before hovering around his head. “You alright Dave?”

“No I’m not you fucking moron,” Dave spat. “And you might as well start calling me Inmate 1EC”

“Inmate 1EC?” Odio hummed as he saw the top of Dave’s brand on his wrist. “Oh… well I am sure that we can find something to do about that… mark”

“There is no ‘we’ anymore,” Dave opened his eyes to glare down the train at Strong Shield. “From now on, if I want something done then I will do it myself”

Meanwhile…

Matrix sat tuning his guitar, one of his wings plucking at the strings as his other slowly turned one of the silver knobs. He paused to look around his small room, his armour rested on its stand and it gleamed enough to help brighten the room. His bed was simple and average, not too hard but not soft either.

He finished tuning his guitar before dragging his wing across all the strings to produce a smooth tone that resonated around the small room. But before he could begin to play his instrument properly his door opened and Night Stalker stepped in

“Oh hey Lieutenant,” Matrix smiled before he burst into action. “Oh I mean, yes sir!” the Pegasus placed his guitar on his bed before standing to attention

Night Stalker glanced at the guitar before rolling his eyes. “If Strong Shield knew you had brought that here then he would have it confiscated”

“Well Strong Shield hasn’t been around for days,” Matrix shrugged. “I don’t know why but he seems to have disappeared”

“The princesses have come down into the barracks multiple times to see if they can find out about Strong Shield or Prince Dave,” Night Stalker hummed. “Anyway we have another patrol, one of our other squads has been called away to deal with a disturbance and we are to replace them”

Matrix groaned as he carefully placed his guitar back into its case and slid it under the bed. He began to place his armour on as Night Stalker left the room. Matrix made sure his armour was secure before placing his helmet on, making sure his ears poked through the holes before securing it beneath his chin

The Pegasus did some stretches before stepping outside his room and seeing that Night Stalker was already prepared in his ebony armour. “Were you adding another layer of polish to your armour?”

“No, I just like to make sure I am comfortable,” Matrix closed his door before following Night Stalker into the barracks and towards the balcony door. The ponies stepped out onto the flat surface as they extended their wings and allowed themselves to glide off the edge

Night Stalker glanced behind him to make sure his partner was close behind before altering his course slightly. “We are going to land near the train station and work our way back through the shopping district”

“Roger partner,” Matrix called ahead as he kept up with the charcoal Pegasus. The two guards slowed their decent as they neared the train station, a few ponies waited patiently for a train as they sat on some wooden benches

Night Stalker and Matrix both landed near the station and had to hop to the sides as a large navy earth pony charged past with a lavender Pegasus close behind. The guards glared after the impatient ponies before deciding to leave it and begin their patrol

“So why are we down this end of Canterlot?” Matrix asked as they watched some ponies run to catch one of the leaving trains

“Like I said, the patrol guards that were supposed to be here have been called away because of gryphons proving unruly,” Night Stalker sighed as he looked down some of the back alleys. “The gryphon general allowed some of his patrol to stay in Canterlot and they started a bar fight”

Matrix shook his head, “For a security group I would have thought that they would at least be able to keep themselves out of trouble”

“The problem with gryphons is that they don’t understand the concept of discipline,” Night Stalker frowned as he saw a familiar unicorn walk down the street, his body covered in patches of black dust

Fix It coughed as he looked around, he let out a sigh of relief as he ran over to the guards, “Thank Celestia I found you”

“What’s wrong?” Matrix asked, his eyes looking at the coal dust that fell from the unicorn’s mane. “And why does it look like you were in a coal mine?”

“Well I needed some money because I was looking at moving flat but my newest employer is kinda…” Fix It tapped his chin. “Mental”

Night Stalker rolled his eyes, “We can’t arrest somepony because he has an odd personality”

Both guards walked around the unicorn but didn’t get far as he jumped in front of the pair again. “Can we help you?” Matrix groaned as Fix It blocked their path

“I don’t think you understand,” Fix It held up a hoof. “When I say mental, I mean he built a bomb in his bathroom”

Both guards frowned at the unicorn. Night Stalker stepped closer to the unicorn and glared at him. “That is a serious allegation”

“And how did you know it was a bomb?” Matrix frowned

“Well he employed me to fix a broken tap in his bathroom, we had to climb through a tunnel and we were in a different house.” Fix It rubbed a hoof through his mane and coal dust fell from his long fur. “And there were these large bricks with wires and timers attached”

Night Stalker narrowed his eyes, “is that it?”

“Well when I asked him what it was, he said it was a bomb!” Fix It threw his hooves in the air. “So I just got the hay outta there and tried looking for some guards”

Night Stalker and Matrix exchanged anxious glances, “Do we have time to get reinforcements?” Matrix frowned nervously

“I doubt it,” Night Stalker tapped his chin. “Fix It, can you tell us where this bomb is?”

“Sure I can take you right to the tunnel entrance,” Fix It nodded, allowing more dust to fall off him. He turned and began jogging, allowing the guards to stick close behind

“And how good are you with electrical equipment?” Night Stalker called to the unicorn

Fix It chuckled, “From a light bulb to a giant speaker, they are all the same on the inside”

“Good, because you are our bomb defusal pony” Night Stalker finished before he focused on running

“WHAT?” Matrix and Fix It both gasped as they looked at the dark Pegasus. They exchanged nervous glances before they resumed running

Chapter 62

Fix It lead the two guards to a boarded up building, some efforts at renovation were obvious but seemed to be abandoned as well. “Alright, there is a tunnel in the basement that takes us a few streets along… I think”

“Ok, Matrix, you take up the rear whilst Fix It stays in the middle,” Night Stalker waited for both the stallions to nod before he opened the door and stepped into the barren house

The stench of chemicals and damp wood instantly rushed to meet the ponies’ noses. “Woah, you didn’t find it odd that somepony lives here?” Matrix covered his nose with his hoof

“Ponies can live however they want,” Fix It rubbed his chin. “Besides, he said he would pay handsomely”

“Oh now it makes sense,” Night Stalker walked down the damp corridor as he looked at the peeling wallpaper. “This is just a front and you assumed that you were going to fix his lights?”

Fix It shrugged, “A pony has to eat”

“All I want is for us to get the hay outta here and get this bomb out of the way,” Matrix sneered at the broken stairs and woodlice that crawled away from the ponies. “You do know how to defuse a bomb right?”

“No strangely enough,” Fix It rolled his eyes. “My specialty is in fixing things not defusing things”

Night Stalker pushed open the door to the basement and flicked on a small switch. A row of lights flickered on and revealed the small basement with a large hole in one of the walls

Matrix groaned as he looked at the dirty basement, “And my specialty isn’t being a mole but we are all making exceptions today”

“Come on let’s just get through this tunnel,” Night Stalker walked over to the hole and flicked another switch. One light flicked on and revealed another larger basement on the other side of the gap. A few cardboard boxes were stacked in one corner

“Wow,” Matrix and Night Stalker both stared at the unicorn as they looked at the short tunnel

Fix It rubbed the back of his neck, “Well I was worried about the bomb that was referred to as ‘rubber ducky with an explosive personality’!”

“Ok whoever built this thing sounds mad,” Matrix stepped through the tunnel and into the other basement

“I prefer the term bonkers, it makes me sound like a funny guy at a party,” the black unicorn smiled at Matrix, his slightly frazzled mane was a mix of white and black

Fix It looked past the guards and smiled, “By the way I fixed your taps… about the bits we talked about”

“Ah yes, here they are,” The unicorn’s horn glowed as he threw a cluster of coins at the other unicorn. “I would have put them in a bag but I kinda used them all up with my samples”

Fix It levitated the coins and placed them in his own small bag before stuffing it away in his tail. “So I have my money and I will take my leave”

“OH you aren’t going anywhere,” Night Stalked used his wing to grab the slower unicorn. “We have a bomb to defuse”

The black unicorn bounced on his hooves with a large smile, “Oh can I help? I would love to be a hero!”

Matrix took a few steps around the strange unicorn, “So what is your name?”

“Oh yes I haven’t introduced myself,” the pony swept his hoof over his cutie mark of a mechanical arm. “I am Shadow Tech! The greatest inventor of snowglobes! And other seasonal items! And items that aren’t seasonal!”

Fix It tapped Night Stalker’s shoulder, “Yeah he is a mad scientist… mad is an understatement though”

Night Stalker pushed Fix It through the hole as he stared at Shadow Tech. “You two go see to the bomb in the tub, I will make sure this strange fellow stays here”

“Wait, defuse ducky?” Shadow Tech shook his head. “Ducky is going to make me famous, he is going to walk into an orphanage and I will save everypony with my power suit!”

Matrix grabbed Fix It and pushed him towards the stairs. “Come on let’s go see to the exploding bath tub”

Fix It and Matrix ran up the steps, hopping over the broken pieces of wood before they charged into the bathroom. They both gawped at the large mass of wires and plastic explosives that filled the bath and pilled to the roof

“Well no pressure,” Matrix tapped Fix It on the back. “Just be careful that this duck doesn’t… kill us all”

The deep purple unicorn gulped as he began to poke at the wires. “Alright I will try my best but if you suddenly turn into tiny pieces then I made a mistake”

Meanwhile…

“You wanna see my power suit?” Shadow Tech smiled as Night Stalker began to walk towards him. “It operates with a variable rotation system that allows for maximum strength”

Night Stalker narrowed his eyes, “I would like to show you the inside of a prison cell, complete with prison food”

Shadow Tech hopped over to one of the large cardboard boxes. “If I go to prison then who will save the orphans?”

“We can save them from you right now,” Night Stalker extended his wings. “You have the right to remain silent”

“And you have the left to be crushed!” Shadow Tech threw the cardboard box aside and revealed a large gold chest plate. The unicorn levitated the armour onto himself and green lights flickered on around the neck and sides

More armour pieces fell out of boxes and were levitated onto the mad scientist, his size increasing with each new section. The parts appeared to be made from everything from scrap iron to shining aluminium

“Oh buck,” Night Stalker took a few cautious steps back as the helmet slid into place and four green eyes span to zoom in on the Pegasus. A chuckle resonated out of the suit of armour as a megaphone appeared in the mouth of the armour. “Your armour is not worth the metal it is made from”

“And your brain cells have been wasted,” Night Stalker glared as the golden golem slowly advanced towards him. “Let’s see if I can’t defuse you”

The giant hoof of the power armour raced at the Pegasus. The guard rolled to the side and dashed at the suit’s rusty legs, preparing to buck the weaker metal but Shadow Tech jumped aside

“A slippery one eh?” The suit chuckled as its wearer studied Night Stalker. “You are like a frog in the bath… once I dropped the hairdryer in, very messy”

“Well you have a very terrible hobby,” Night Stalker saw the exposed clamps on the suit’s chest. “Have anything else you want to get off your chest?”

The black Pegasus ran at the large golden pony, leaping over a hoof that shot out to crush him. Shadow’s head followed Night Stalker as he flipped through the air and kicked at one of the chest attachments

The clamp broke and the chest opened slightly at the base of the neck. Shadow growled as he looked at the Pegasus. “You do realize that I made this myself?”

“Yeah, only somepony completely mad would waste his time with such a… ridiculous machine,” Night Stalker leapt to the side as Shadow lunged forward and rammed into the wall, leaving a large crack

“This isn’t ridiculous!” The scientist wined. “It has cup holders and a glove box!”

“A what box?” Night Stalker ducked under another swipe before flapping his wings to get some distance between him and the armoured pony

“It doesn’t matter!” Shadow yelled. “All that matters is that I will save ponies… from myself… some other stuff… and then PROFIT!”

“Oh shut up!” Matrix yelled as he dropped his rear hooves onto one of the other chest clamps, the gap widening a bit more

Shadow turned to swipe at the newcomer but Night Stalker used the distraction to finally buck the rear hooves out from under the scientist’s body

“Fine, playing dirty will only mean your bath will be longer!” Shadow snarled as his power armour began to make noises. A large barrel poked out of his back as it scraped the roof of the basement

“What is that?” Matrix pointed a hoof at the large weapon

Shadow Tech pointed to the cannon, “Oh this is just a rapid delivery device!” He said happily, “It is going to deliver metal to your face”

“That doesn’t sound too good,” Night Stalker sighed as he pushed Matrix aside and jumped into the air, narrowly avoiding the spearhead that whizzed through his tail

“Hold still, the lock on won’t work if the stripy one acts as a flare!” Shadow rolled his eyes as he began to aim his gun again

Night Stalker looked at Matrix, giving a reassuring nod as both the guards prepared themselves. “Feel like doing something stupid?”

“I have already joined the guards,” Matrix smirked as he narrowed his eyes at Shadow Tech. “Is it safe to assume that his magic is powering the suit?”

“Looks that way,” Night Stalker used his wing to pull out a metallic cylinder from his armour. “Ready?”

Matrix smirked, “You know it”

Shadow Tech lunged at both the guards, his hooves aimed for their heads as his gun tried to lock on. Matrix and Night Stalker hopped onto the outstretched hooves and ran along to the body

Matrix wrapped his striped wings around the suit’s eyes, causing the gun to fire blindly into the wall. Night Stalker began to hit the neck joint and eventually the head became limp and Matrix lifted the metallic head and threw it aside

“Time to shut down your operation!” Night Stalker yelled as he stabbed the cylinder into the neck of the power armour. The cylinder glowed and the suit suddenly fell silent, the large body slowly tipped to the side and fell to the ground

Matrix and Night Stalker tapped hooves as they heard Shadow Tech groan inside the armour. “Oh you crafty blighters, a magical dampener?”

“Standard issue,” Night Stalker left the armour as he followed Matrix up the stairs and into the bathroom. Fix It was covered in pieces of wire and was carefully pulling pieces of wire out and poking at the black box that was connected to the front

“Hey guys, it turns out that I am still not a bomb defusal pony,” the unicorn tapped the box. “I haven’t figured out how to stop it yet and we are running out of time”

“Running out of time?” Matrix looked around for a timer. “How do you know?”

Fix It reattached one of the wires and red lights appeared on the red box. “Yeah I turned the lights off because they were unnerving me”

Night Stalker sighed, “You have to stop this, we are relying on you”

“Oh no pressure then,” Fix It groaned as he lifted the lid of the box and revealed even more wires. He hummed as he tapped his hoof against each wire, tracing the connections as he began hearing bleeping

“What’s that?” Matrix took a step back from the bomb, his nervousness obvious

“I’m guessing we have ten seconds left,” Fix It began to sweat as he hummed faster, eventually wrapping his hoof around a large red wire. “If we die…”

The stallions all exchanged glances

“…I’m blaming you guys”

Fix It pulled the wire and slammed his eyes shut, cautiously opening them to see the timer had stopped with only a few seconds to go. Matrix fell to his flank as he breathed a sigh of relief and Night Stalker rolled his eyes

“Good job everypony,” the charcoal Pegasus nodded. “Now all we have to do is carry Shadow Tech to the castle and send disposal guards down here”

Matrix nodded, “Alright, Fix It, can you stay with the bomb?”

“Yeah I would love to stay with the huge bomb that could kill me before I could blink,” the unicorn groaned sarcastically as he rubbed his eyes with his hoof. “But I just want to… oh so you just leave me talking to myself!” Fix It called as he was left alone with the bomb

Chapter 63

The Daedalus crashed through more rock as Strong Shield continued to drive, Odio floated aimlessly around the carriage and Dave sat silently at the back of the train, his eyes staring at the mark on his arm

Strong Shield yawned as he continued to stare at the view outside, a few odd coloured rocks went by but nothing interesting besides the grey stone that the Daedalus had been traveling through for the past few hours

Odio floated over to Dave as his burning eyes stopped near his head. “Hey Dave, you alright?”

“No,” Dave moved his glare to Odio as he pulled his sleeve back down. “What do you want?”

“I just want to let you know that I have your back when we go into Tartarus,” Odio smirked. “Together we are unstoppable!”

Dave stood up, “You aren’t coming in with me”

“W-what?” Odio gawped. “I only saw a fraction of the pain that gave you that mark and you will need me if you intend to survive ten seconds in Tartarus”

The human walked through the fog as he went over to look through the viewport. “I was marked, not you”

Strong Shield sighed as he looked over at Dave. “I suggest you take Odio, you may need his help”

“I don’t need anyponies’ help,” Dave frowned. “You want me to find the vault then fine, I will”

Odio and Strong Shield exchanged nervous glances as they avoided looking at Dave. “When you find the vault, do you know what to do?”

“Put the key into the vault activation slot, wait for hatch to open then quickly remove key and throw it in,” Dave remained monotone as he continued to stare out the viewport. “I know what to do”

The Daedalus suddenly lurched upwards, sending Dave flying to the back of the train. The human used a hand to stop himself as he was about to hit the wall. He sat down as he kept his glare focused on the floor

Odio moved closer to Strong Shield, “this is definitely not good, Dave is completely… not Dave”

“I know,” Strong Shield shook his head. “I should have seen this all sooner and maybe we could have stopped all this”

“Also Dave seems to be more… repulsive,” Odio hummed

Strong Shield frowned, “I don’t think Dave’s personal hygiene has any relevance at the moment”

“No I mean his magical resistance,” Odio whispered. “When he walked through me I felt like I was being pushed aside rather than the normal feeling when he just seems to move through”

As Strong Shield was about to reply, the Daedalus raced upwards, and broke through the rock and ground, the midday sun beating the dead ground as the Daedalus levelled out and turned to face a huge black building on the other side of a wide ravine

The fortress stretched up to the sky, various spiked towers seemed to form one large canopy that were being held back by huge smooth black walls. A large archway led onto a round courtyard, a huge three headed dog sat chewing on the tail of Adamas

The diamond dragon slept as he hardly felt the smaller dog’s teeth try to bite against his hard diamond scales. He rested on top of one of the spiked buildings, his breaths slow and regular as he stood out against the pitch black background

On the other side of the courtyard was a triangular engraving with a small dot in the centre. The Daedalus slowly approached the ravine before slowly crossing the track that strung the two sides together

Strong Shield sighed as they passed under the black arch and brought the Daedalus to a halt. “I guess you would like to get some fresh air before we go in”

“And you can speak to Adamas,” Dave muttered as he walked over to the hatch and opened it, stepping out into the hot sun as Cerberus noticed the new creature ad began to run over, snarling

Strong Shield reached the hatch to see the Cerberus charging at Dave, “Look out for the blasted dog!”

Dave tilted his head to the Cerberus, his frown deepening as he saw the saliva that frothed at Cerberus’ mouth. “SIT!” he bellowed and the dog came to a halt, pausing slightly as each head looked at the human in confusion, finally sitting down

“I know the Cerberus was a pushover but I never expected it to… not actually be a threat,” Adamas yawned as he arched his head over to look at Dave. “How are you?”

“Alive,” Dave removed his trench coat as he threw it back into the Daedalus, revealing the mark that covered the back of his left arm. Adamas narrowed his eyes before sniffing slightly

“Is there something wrong with your healing?” Adamas hummed as he saw the smooth branding that was drastically unexpected for the dragon to see on the human

Dave glanced up at the dragon, “Nothing is wrong, this is just my identity tag in Tartarus”

Strong Shield sighed as he walked over to Adamas and began filling in the details of how Dave got his mark, the conversation was short lived as Dave climbed back into the Daedalus and sat by the hatch

“Are we going now?” Dave called to the black unicorn as he stared at his mark again. “I intend to get this done and out the way”

Adamas nodded to Strong Shield, “I will wait out here and will tap the roof if I see any problems”

“Thank you Adamas,” Strong Shield sighed. “I just wish it could be this easy to get Dave to forgive me”

“He knows you never wanted to get him involved,” Adamas smiled. “He is protecting you and the rest of your family, just know that he loves you really”

Strong Shield shook his head, “Maybe I should have never adopted him… I have only brought misery to him”

Adamas dipped his head as he looked at the human that sat in the Daedalus, “I wish you a good hunt during your search”

Dave waved his hand out the hatch and waited for Strong Shield to step in before stretching to pull the handle and close the hatch. Cerberus barked as the train moved slowly towards the engraving and slowly began to slide through, the wall opening as the Daedalus moved to ensure there were no gaps between the train and the wall of Tartarus

The Daedalus reached a U-turn and came to a stop, the hatch opening a final time as Dave stepped out, with Strong Shield and Odio close behind. “So… this is Tartarus?”

The outside fortress was like a giant dome that stretched across in every direction, only the dry ground beneath Dave’s feet was any sign that he was still in Equestria. A large black cube sat in the middle of the huge dome, it still dwarfed the Daedalus as it stretched higher than a church tower

“Yes it is,” Strong Shield sighed as they walked over to the smooth surface of the cube. “I have no idea how we get in”

“I thought you told me you did know something about this place,” Odio frowned

“We only got rumours that were passed around by reliable sources,” Strong Shield shuddered. “This is as close as I have ever been”

Dave felt his mark burn painfully as he looked at the large black cube. “Look after my coat, I’ll be back in a day”

“One of our days,” Strong Shield nodded. “We won’t move until you come back”

“See you in a day buddy,” Odio smiled as Dave gave a half-hearted smirk and wave before he placed his left hand onto the cube. His vision went black before restoring, revealing a black door in front of him and a black wall behind him

Dave sighed as he went through the door and instantly stepped onto a long black bridge, the void below almost seemed enticing to Dave before he pulled his gaze away and looked across the short bridge to a desk, a sheet of glass stretched around it as a humanoid figure appeared to be working

The bridge was a smooth stone with no railings to stop anypony from falling off the edge. Dave kept his cool as he walked across the bridge and over to the reception desk, a red, bird-like humanoid was tapping away at a typewriter as Dave neared the glass, the usual hopes had been drilled through so Dave could speak to the creature

“Hello?” Dave said calmly as the creature turned to face Dave, its plumage moved to reveal an almost skull head, the skin appearing to be the only thing that held the feathers to the frail body

“Can I help you?” The receptionist turned out to be female as she stared at Dave

“I uh… am here to be imprisoned,” Dave cleared his throat as the bird-lady nodded. “My name is Dave, what’s yours?”

“Eskala da’ shankrikosdalaphinskav,” The creature replied, rolling her black eyes at Dave’s gawp. “Or Esk for short”

Dave nodded as he held up his mark to the window, “So Esk, is there a door or a jailor that will take me to my cell?”

“No,” Esk looked at the mark before rummaging through a few folders below her desk and pulling out one that shared the same letters as Dave’s brand. “Alright, a little bit of paperwork… who are your next of kin?”

“Oh Noxporta is my son,” Dave nodded as Esk wrote down his answer

“Ok, what is the name of your world?” Esk rubbed her beak as she waited for Dave to respond. “And who is the ruler or rulers?”

“Equestria,” Dave awkwardly placed his hands into his pocket. “It is ruled by Princess Celestia and Princess Luna”

Esk hummed as she wrote, this obviously was just a job to her. “Ok and what is your crime?”

“Crime?” Dave scratched his neck. “I didn’t do one, I am here to look for something”

The bird squawked as she looked at Dave, “You are volunteering? You didn’t commit genocide, create a disease, or enslave the world?”

“N-no,” Dave shook his head. “I am actually trying to protect ponies and other creatures but I am mainly here to protect my family”

“A genuinely good being coming into Tartarus?” Esk tapped her beak. “The warden would like to see you at some point… anyway, how long is you imprisonment?”

The human placed his hand back into his pocket, “One day”

“Of your days?” Esk pulled out some form of calculator but the device was a sphere and had random symbols. “Ok that equates to one year, now if you don’t mind stepping into…”

“HOLD IT!” Dave held up his hands. “Did you say one year?”

Esk nodded, “It is the lightest sentence yet, the next shortest has still got another twenty million years to go”

Dave took a step back from the reception desk. “Yeah I’m gonna go now”

“You can’t,” Esk shrugged. “You have been marked so you must serve your time, or we can add another ten years if you decide to run”

Dave glared at Esk as he considered attacking the frail looking beast. Finally the human groaned and walked back over to the desk. “Fine, where do I go then?”

“The analysis chamber,” Esk pointed to a black door to the side of the reception desk. “It will record your body and will open out onto Tartarus prison”

“Okay,” Dave took a deep breath as he stepped into the room and closed the door behind him. One of the walls turned red and illuminated the room in a dark glow. Two holes opened in the roof and two large pipes poked into the room

Dave stepped under one of the pipes and looked up, the dark tunnel was wide enough for Dave to fit his hand in. Moving slowly, Dave placed his hand into the pipe, feeling around for a lever or switch. Instead he felt something land on his hand, so he carefully removed his hand from the pipe and saw a small beetle crawling on his palm

“Well hey little guy,” Dave moved his hand so he could see the horned bug in better light. The beetle wasn’t much bigger than a poker chip and it had a small horn in the middle of its head. Its head separated to reveal a few small barbed tentacles that rubbed against Dave’s skin

“Oh no, don’t you dare think about!” Dave yelped as the bug bit into his hand, attempting to burrow under his skin. Dave pulled the bug off and squeezed it between his fingers, allowing the dead bug to fall to the floor

A low rumble made Dave’s heart skip as he looked up at the pipe above his head and a swarm of beetles landed on his head, some bugs poked around Dave’s hair whilst some began to burrow into his ears

Some took opportunity of Dave’s shouting to crawl into his mouth, some pulled back his eyelids and found their own way in from there. The pipes began to regularly spew out more beetles that crawled over Dave, analysing every part of his body as his attempts at brushing them aside proved futile

Dave’s body felt full of fire and pain, as every single beetle either bit his skin or tore away at his muscles. Some grouped in his stomach as they found the key in his belly, they deemed it as a foreign object and began to push the sharp metal out of Dave’s body

The human fell the floor as he shook, the key being forced out of his body as more bugs crawled in through the new wound. Biting, tearing, chewing, stabbing, cutting, crushing, analysing

Chapter 64

Celestia brushed her mane as she replaced the golden regalia on her head, the engagement ring standing proudly as she inspected herself in the mirror. She rolled her eyes as Nox irritably groaned as he bounced on the bed

“Mum, hurry up!” Nox wined. “We are gonna be late for dinner with Applebloom!”

“Have you cleaned your teeth?” Celestia rose an eyebrow to the younger alicorn. “How about combing your mane?”

Nox groaned even louder, “Yeah I’ve done them and I even polished my royal clothes because you told me to”

Celestia looked back again as she saw Nox slip his dark regalia over his head, tapping the diamond as he was showing lack of patience. The princess smiled to her reflection as she finished making herself presentable and walked over to the door

“Are you coming?” Celestia smiled as her son bounced over and nodded. “Good, then I will have to make sure that I sort all my paperwork out when we get back”

Nox nodded as he used his magic to open the door, “Alright but can we hurry to go see Applebloom?”

Celestia smiled as she noticed the guards outside smile briefly. “Guards? You may leave your post until the afternoon”

“Thank you your highness!” Both guards saluted until both royals were completely out of view. One guard flinched as he looked at the letters on his back. “I forgot to give her these”

The other guard levitated the stack of various letters and stepped into the princesses’ chambers. “Well we can leave them on her desk, Princess Celestia can look at them when she gets back… they seem to be reports anyway”

The guard flicked through a stack of yellow envelopes and white scrolls. His eyes stopped as he saw a pitch black letter that was sealed with a crimson wax

“That is definitely new,” the guard shrugged to his partner. “Just leave it and let’s get going, I’m sure it is nothing important”

Both guards nodded as they placed the letters onto the desk and closed the bedroom door. The pitch black letter faded away as couldn’t feel the presence of its’ designated recipient

Meanwhile…

Dave shivered as he rested on the floor, his body still covered in scratches that slowly healed after a final few bugs crawled out of him and scurried back up the pipes. Dave looked up and saw the golden key that was in his stomach was now laying a few inches from his head

He reached out and grabbed the key, holding it close to his chest as he sat up and looked around the daunting room. Dave held back the urge to vomit as he saw the room was almost covered in his blood, the prints the beetles made dotted the roof as they lead to one of the pipes

Slowly, Dave stood up to steady himself, the beetles had even dug through his bones and made his legs feel unsteady and weak. He managed to stand up straight, leaning against the wall as he looked around the room

Apart from the red wall that illuminated the room and the two pipes in the ceiling, there was no marks to show any door or hatch of any kind. Dave looked down at his bloodied clothes and decided to remove his shirt, allowing it to fall to the floor

The room felt warm, the wall Dave rested against felt hot but not enough to make him pull away. His attention still shifting between looking for a door and making sure he still held the golden key

Dave attempted to walk to one of the other walls, slipping and falling onto his front as he felt his body fill with pain again. He groaned as he pushed himself to his knees and slipped the key into his pocket

“What the hell?” Dave looked around at the new area he was in, the room he was previously in had disappeared. His new area seemed more daunting. The feeling of isolation came almost immediately as Dave looked down the huge area he was in

The horizon was replaced with huge walls that reached up into a shadowy abyss. The walls were filled with various sized holes that seemed to lead to nowhere as they stretched out of view. The furthest wall from Dave had a smooth circle with a large orange sphere that illuminated the main area Dave was in

Dave pushed himself to his feet and rubbed his legs, shaking them as he began to feel normal again. He turned around as he looked for anything that could help him in some way, not finding anything as he could only see the flat ground that he stood on

“Well this is encouraging,” Dave grumbled as he noticed that every part of the ground was covered in some form of dried blood. His attention was brought upwards as he heard a loud roaring, the body of a Minotaur fell and slammed into the ground

Before Dave could move again, a large, dog-like creature slammed into the Minotaur, instantly knowing and slashing as it tore off parts of the creatures’ body and began to chew on the limbs

What surprised Dave even more was the Minotaur itself, even though most of its head was a mess and spread around the floor, its arm grabbed one of the dogs’ throats and pulled it down to what was left of its mouth

“You can taste next time!” The dog used one of his hind legs to help pull the remaining arm from the Minotaur’s body. His long fangs sunk into the flesh and the body twitched and shook in pain

Dave looked around before staring at the dog, a large mark similar to Dave’s was branded down its’ chest. “89873PA?” Dave muttered as he read the mark

The dog looked up at Dave and dropped the arm it was grazing on. “A new inmate?” he licked his lips as he began to prowl towards Dave. “I bet you taste bitter!”

The dog lunged at Dave, its jaws open and aiming to clasp onto Dave’s neck. But the human side stepped and threw his arm around the dog’s neck, pulling sharply to break the dog’s neck

Dave dropped the body but it instantly hopped away and its front paws began to slowly twist its head back into place. “What the fuck are you?” Dave asked as he took a few precautionary steps away

“I am a diamond dog, named L…, it was too long ago for me to remember now,” The dog’s mouth dripped saliva as he stood straight and readied his claws. “I am designated Inmate 89873PA! You will remember it for it shall be the thing you see every time I pull your eyes out!

“I’m not on the menu,” Dave readied his fists. “And if you need to know, I am Inmate…” Dave looked at his marking, “Inmate 1EC”

89873PA paused, his eyes narrowing before his position became defensive. “1EC? Impossible! Even the swarm is only marked Inmate 2TA and it has always been here!”

“What do the marks mean?” Dave glared

“If I tell you,” The scruffy dog looked ready to flee. “Will you try to taste me?”

Dave shook his head, “I didn’t come here to eat anypony”

“The markings define us,” The diamond dog inched away from Dave. “They are given by the Ledger!”

“That dream…” Dave rubbed his chin as he remembered the logbook that was around when he received his branding. “One last question, where can I find the warden?”

89873PA grabbed one of the Minotaur’s legs as he stepped over the body. “You can’t find the warden, nothing can.” The dog’s eyes looked past Dave before he suddenly scampered away

“Hey where are you going you mutt?” Dave yelled as the other convict ran into one of the tunnels. The human sighed as he scratched his head, his attention brought to the arm that reached past him and picked up a piece of the squashed Minotaur

“I hate creatures that run,” a deep voice groaned. “Makes their meat a bit chewy, and the sweat reduces the taste”

Dave turned and looked up at a haired creature, his chest was covered in a thick black fur and his head had two spiral horns that poked out of his temples. Dave’s head only reached to the top of the creature’s bulging abs

The human took a step back as he noticed the creature’s six muscular arms, hooved feet and a mark across its’ chest that said ‘9FP’

“What the hell are you?” Dave gawped as the creature’s goat head looked down at him

“You must be new… and fresh,” the creature smirked. “I am Inmate 9FP, I was once known as… I can’t remember… but I want to know what you taste like, Inmate… 1EC?”

Dave rubbed his mark, “Yeah what do these marks mean?”

“Enough talk!” 9FP grabbed Dave’s arms and lifted him into the air, Dave kicked him in the face but his legs were grabbed soon after

“Why the fuck are you going to eat me?” Dave didn’t get a warning as his chest was punched by the creature’s remaining arms. He coughed as he felt his ribs give way without much resistance

9FP placed his free hands onto Dave’s stomach, his dirty nails pushing into Dave’s skin. “We can feed but the hunger remains, we can drink but the thirst sticks… we can die but the pain continues to burn”

Dave resisted as he felt his arms and legs get pulled in opposite directions, the skin around his belly was already feeling the strain of large fingers being slowly pushed in. “So you hope that I can remove your hunger?”

“Yes, you are new and you will feel the pain of being digested bit by bit,” 9FP licked his lips as his fingers became coated in Dave’s blood. “And if my hunger isn’t affected by eating you then I will roar and allow the other hundred thousand inmates to feast on you before you even reform your eyes!”

“Go to hell!” Dave spat into 9FP’s face. The creature licked the spit as he savoured the taste

“Hell…” 9FP began to pull out Dave’s entrails as he engorged himself of the red meat, tearing the clothes away so he could get to the flesh with ease. “Hell is paradise compared to this place”

Meanwhile…

Esk continued to type, the small clicks of her typewriter were disturbed as her light flickered and a cloaked figure stepped in front of the glass. She shuddered before looking up, the eleven foot being wasn’t completely visible as its’ hand pressed against the glass and showed a crushed bug

“What is this?” A stern voice asked

“I-it appears to be a record beetle Mr Warden,” Esk rubbed her feathered hands together nervously. “Is there anything else I can help you with?”

The warden left the squashed bug against the glass, “the beetle is dead… no beetle can die”

“I-it must have been the new inmate,” The bird squawked in alarm as the warden suddenly placed a finger on the glass and pointed at the receptionist

“What is his mark?” the warden growled

“Inmate 1EC,” Esk shook in terror as the finger dropped and the warden hummed. “He is staying for one Tartarien year”

The warden turned to look elsewhere, “Crime?”

“None, he came in to look for something,” Esk found the document and hastily pulled out the info sheet, slipping it through the gap at the bottom of the glass. “Here is his file”

The warden took the sheet and read all the info, “I will let him get settled, maybe let him meet some of the bigger fish before I meet him”

“Shall I arrange for him to be delivered to your office?” Esk asked, her nervousness obvious as she talked

“No,” the warden hummed as he passed the document back. “I will present the chance myself and hopefully Inmate 1EC will let himself in”

Esk nodded as she looked back at her typewriter, “I apologize for my rudeness but I think Ledger is mistaken, as Inmate 1EC appears to be nothing that threatening”

“He could kill an indestructible beetle without any thought,” the warden hummed. “We will have to see how much untapped potential our new convict has… send a letter to his family, informing that we will have to double his stay”

“Yes Mr Warden,” Esk nodded, her eyes catching a glimpse of the warden’s hand, the mark, ‘1EC’ branded thoroughly into his leathery flesh

Chapter 65

Flux groaned as the train waited at the station, a pregnant mare was struggling to lift a large suitcase onto the train

"Let me get that for you," Battering Ram sighed as he stepped off the train allowing the mare to step on as he effortlessly lifted the case and carried it over to the mare’s seat

Flux rubbed her eyes as Ram took his seat opposite her. "We are never going to reach Tartarus in time"

"We have to try," Battering Ram looked out the window, the buildings slowly moving away as the train gathered speed. The navy earth pony gritted his teeth as he grumbled quietly

The lavender Pegasus placed her hooves on the table as she closed her eyes. "We failed the guards, we failed Puppetmaster, and now we failed Strong Shield"

"You knew he always was cautious," Battering Ram looked over at the mare. "Once we find him, we can talk this over and you can have a decent discussion, maybe see if you can still patch things up"

"Patch things up?" Flux's eyes tightened as she began to cry. "If something happens to Dave then he will never look at us again!"

Battering Ram shuddered as he watched Flux sob, her tears falling to the table. "Come on Flux, don't be this way... We are almost to Fillydelphia, then it is only half a day away"

"What if they have found the vault already?" Flux looked up at Ram with bloodshot eyes. "What if we failed again?"

Ram shook his head, "You can't think like that, we will make things right"

"We could have gone to Celestia," Flux frowned at herself. "She could have saved Dave and Strong Shield"

Battering Ram sighed as he looked out the window and at the lowering sun. “Well we would have gotten into trouble, and I am pretty sure that Strong Shield would have been punished too”

“I just hope that Strong Shield doesn’t do anything drastic,” Flux wiped her tears away as she looked out the window at the passing scenery

Meanwhile…

Celestia and Nox stepped off the carriage, the colt hopped on the spot as he waited for his mother to catch up. “Come on mum!” Nox wined as Celestia quickly thanked the guards that pulled the royal carriage

“We are at the farm and I am sure Applebloom’s family will be expecting us on time, not early,” Celestia nodded to the guards who detached themselves from the carriage and pushed it into a spot out of the way, resting as they saluted the princess

Nox rubbed his mane with his hoof and sniffed his own breath. “I know but I just missed her… don’t you miss dad when he disappears for days?”

“Well…” Celestia paused as she looked at her son, her mind beginning to wonder as she slowly smiled. “Of course I do, but I know that your father will always come back”

The prince nodded before following his mother up to the farmhouse door and the white alicorn knocked politely. A few hushed voices came through the door before it opened and Applejack quickly bowed to the royal alicorns

“Howdy Princess Celestia,” Applejack’s mane was braided and had a fancy bow at the end of her blond hair. She had obviously put lot of effort into her appearance and undoubtedly so had the rest of her family

“Hello Applejack, I apologize that my son has brought this responsibility to your family,” Celesta tipped her head. “If I had known Applebloom had invited my son and I for dinner then I would have made sure they had gotten your permission first”

The earth pony shook her head as she smiled up at the princess of the son. “It was a surprise to hear you were coming over and I am glad Applebloom has got a nice colt to call her special somepony”

Nox smiled at the compliment as he tried to look past Applejack and see if he could spot Applebloom. The grey colt managed to see the tail of his special somepony and he instantly smiled even more

“Is Dave gonna join us for lunch?” Applejack asked as she looked around for the human

Celesta frowned slightly, her concern being touched again. “I suppose he will be having something to eat elsewhere, he has done another disappearing act”

“Ah, well I hope he is eating something nice,” Applejack joked

Meanwhile…

Dave snapped the leg from the mantis-pony hybrid. Its shape was more pony but its head was joined with pincers and two large arms grew from its shoulders to form the green claws that Dave had seen on praying mantises

“ONE MONTH!” Dave slammed the severed hoof onto the monster’s already cracked head. “One month I have been here and all I get from you fucks is the same bullshit!” Dave’s hair was dirty, him body stained in dried blood and the golden key was hanging from a handmade necklace that Dave managed to make by tearing strips from his damaged jeans

The creature merely groaned as it slowly swiped as Dave’s face, the claw falling short as Dave grabbed it and yanked it away from the body, resulting in a scream as the monster squirmed

“What do these fucking marks mean?” Dave stabbed the creature with its own claw, the arm penetrating just below the mark of ‘75355BP’

“I-I don’t,” 75355BP screeched as Dave plunged his hand into the gap he had made in the green creature’s side

“None of you know the warden and you all like to remind me that my hunger can’t be satisfied!” Dave snarled as he looked at the bleeding wound he had his hand buried into. “But all the inmates say that tasting another being makes you forget a little, I haven’t degraded myself yet and that has cost me twenty times already… twenty times I have been passed through dirty teeth, burning stomach acid and filthy intestines”

Dave began to drool as he felt the creature squirm and his hand feel all the movement of the creature’s organs. “You wouldn’t give me pity… so why should I give you any?” Dave whispered as his eyes became locked on the bleeding wound

The human couldn’t resist as the crushing pain of hunger forced him to start ripping into the other inmate, his mouth moving to the wound so he could get at the stringy meat and sour blood sooner

Meanwhile…

Princess Celestia and Prince Nox both followed Applejack into her home, smiling as they saw the other ponies around the table

Applebloom had a jewelled bow in her mane, her hair looked much softer as did her tail. Big Mac had his mane combed straight and his red fur had definitely seen a brush for the first time in years. The old green earth pony that was Granny Smith was wearing glasses and a pearl necklace that suited a pony of her age

“Hello everypony,” Celestia smiled as all the ponies bowed on their seats. Nox hurried to the in-between Applebloom and Big Mac as he nuzzled the filly. Celestia took her seat between Applejack and Granny Smith as she smiled to the other ponies

Celestia still sat higher than everypony else, even though Big Mac was taking the effort to sit up straight. Nox meanwhile was happy whispering with Applebloom whilst Applejack walked into the kitchen to get the food

“I’ve missed you,” Nox smiled as Applebloom blushed

“I’ve missed ya too,” Applebloom smiled as she rubbed her nose against Nox’s neck. “I got told off when I sent that invite to ya but got stuck with extra chores when we heard that you were coming”

Nox smiled as he placed his hoof on Applebloom’s, the grey colt had his attention tore away as Applejack returned and placed a large steaming pie on the table

“Dig in everypony!” Applejack beamed as she saw the group of ponies gawp at the pie. “Err, that is… if ya want to Princess”

Celestia nodded, “The pie looks delicious and I am sure it tastes as good as it looks”

“If ya think this is gonna be tasty then wait til ya try one of Applejack’s homemade apple cakes,” Granny Smith chuckled as she sniffed in the smell of the pie

Applejack picked up a sharp knife with her mouth and carefully cut out large slices of pie for each of the hungry ponies that sat around the table. “Just make sure that ya don’t drop any on yourselves, we didn’t get all fancy just to get messy in front of royalty”

“Oh don’t worry about us,” Celestia smiled. “We are guests and we don’t need special treatment”

“Yeah we aren’t on a parade or anything,” Nox smiled as Applejack placed a large slice of pie on his plate. “This looks yummy!”

Applejack smiled as she finished dishing out the rest of the pie, “Well I hope it tastes as good as it looks!”

The ponies began to dig into their food, Nox and Applebloom eating hungrily whilst the other ponies took their time. Celestia glanced at Nox and smiled as she saw him joking with Applebloom, the filly and colt enjoying each other’s company

Big Mac glanced at the empty seat between him and Celestia, the chair that was reserved for Dave. “So where is Dave?” the stallion asked

Celestia’s smile faded for a second, “Well I don’t honestly know.” The princess’ ears dropped, “My guess is that he has been whisked away for some unknown reason… but he should show up soon”

Meanwhile…

“I have been doing some thinking,” Dave tapped his chin as he walked down once of the dark corridors. “One hour on the outside equals half a month in here,” the human paused as he tilted his head with hum. “I am only dealing with approximates”

The creature Dave was dragging had most of its limbs removed and was just a black body that was soaked in yellow blood. The torso twitched as Dave talked, a head was bouncing along the ground behind them, a few veins connecting the stumpy sphere head to the body

“What does that have to do with anything?” the creature groaned. Its circular mouth was lined with sharp teeth that had been broken

“Well during my extensive time here I have noticed three distinct groups,” Dave dropped the body and turned to smile at the head. “One group like to talk and try to hold onto the power that they had on the outside, you fall into this group Inmate 121234SA”

121234SA snarled at Dave, “You know nothing about me! I was a stalker, a killer of countless children that didn’t run fast enough, their young lives were nutritious and filling!” The creature was silenced as Dave stomped on the head, resulting in a spray of yellow blood

“The second group have completely twisted and can’t even speak, they survive in Tartarus by resorting to behaviours that they would never consider,” Dave chuckled as he slowly pointed to himself. “Then there is me, I am alone in group three because I have begun to see Tartarus in a new light… this prison has allowed me to expand my knowledge, test theories”

The torso twitched as the squashed head gargled in response

“Basically I have grown to understand, learnt new things and now begun to realize that pain is an experience, something I merely hinted at understanding on the outside,” Dave placed a finger in the smashed head and hooked out an oval eye

The pupil of the eye dilated as Dave brought it close to his face, his smile bared his teeth as he laughed at the eye

“The only thing that I know for real,” Dave tilted his head back as he lifted the eye above him and aimed it over his mouth. “Is that there will be blood,” he whispered as he dropped the eye into his waiting mouth

Chapter 66

“1EC?” Dave tapped his chin with the severed hand he held. “If this is a rating system then I am supposedly the most dangerous thing in Tartarus”

Dave moved the hand to his mouth and bit off one of the short red fingers. The hand twitched and squirmed as it attempted to escape Dave, the severed finger crawled around Dave’s mouth before his tongue moved it into the path of his teeth

“Not very meaty are you?” Dave threw the arm aside as he wiped his mouth. “Admittedly I am becoming a lot more relaxed here, I have been an inmate for… shit… I can’t remember”

The human reached the end of the dark corridor as he arrived in the large open space, this area saw most of the dangerous inmates and Dave liked to see who was around. His eyes instantly glanced to the large sphere that was imbedded in the wall at one end, its orange glow illuminated the entire area

Dave recognised a six armed creature that was tearing into a bloody pulp in the ground. “Inmate 9FP?” he smiled as the goat headed being turned and smirked at Dave

“So if it isn’t the newest prisoner, I haven’t seen you for a while,” 9FP cracked the knuckles on all six of his fists. “I recall you tasted fairly… beefy”

“I haven’t eaten in a while,” Dave licked his lips as he felt the deep hunger that he could never satisfy. “And I would imagine you taste quite stringy”

9FP began to run at Dave, his fists ready as he lunged at the human. Dave took a step forward and allowed his head to get hit in rapid succession, the pain piled on top of the pain he had amassed since his arrival

Dave fell to his knees and began laughing, his happiness made 9FP frown with curiosity. “Don’t you fight against those that will gladly feast on your kidneys?”

“I don’t fight,” Dave stood as he looked up at the larger creature. “I don’t know what I figured out recently but it has made me… better”

9FP snorted, “Like I care, I might start with your throat this time to shut you up!” The beast moved to grab Dave’s head but a hand grabbed his wrist and held him at bay. He grunted as he placed two more hands onto his first hand and tried to push through the immovable force

“You aren’t scary or intimidating,” Dave looked down at the golden object that was tied around his neck. “You have no purpose but I do… I have to find the… um…”

“The pain makes us forgetful,” 9FP snarled as he used his other hand to grab Dave’s head. He wrapped his large hands around Dave’s face as he attempted to pull but the human refused to move. “What the?”

Dave’s muffled laugh came from behind one of 9FP’s hands. Dave used his free hand to pull the hand away from his face without any effort. “I used to think that my resistance to magic was a trait, but it isn’t… it’s a force, a power and I will use it how I see fit”

Dave gently placed a finger over 9FP’s chest and pushed through with ease, the larger convict gasped as he felt more pain being added onto the ache that had he had grown accustomed to

“N-nothing does this to me!” 9FP roared at Dave as he used all his fists to start punching Dave repeatedly in the head, only causing Dave to smile

“And I am not going to give anypony the chance again,” Dave smirked as he brought his other fist forwards and punched 9FP away, leaving Dave with his heart in his hand. “Thanks for the grub!” Dave smirked as he bit into the heart like an apple and walked away

Meanwhile…

Celestia wiped her mouth as she finished her apple pie, “Thank you Applejack that was a wonderful meal”

“Thank ya Princess Celestia,” Applejack smiled. “Would ya like some dessert?”

Celestia tapped her chin, “what is it?”

“Apple crumble of course!” Applejack beamed as the white princess smiled

“I am fine thank you, the pie was more than filling,” Celestia looked over to Nox who was happily chatting away with Applebloom. “Did you have a nice meal Nox?”

The grey alicorn looked over to his mother, “huh? Oh yeah, it was great!” The colt smiled as he looked back to Applebloom. “So you have a school trip to Canterlot soon?”

“Yep!” Applebloom smiled. “Oh Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon have started to leave me and my friends alone ever since you yelled at them”

“I try to help,” Nox chuckled as he rubbed his mane. “So when you come for this school trip I can come meet you?”

The young earth pony nodded, “Sure, I would love to see ya and then we can hang out”

Big Mac’s attention was caught by the noise of post being delivered, he quietly slipped away from the table to pick up the letters and place them on the small table beside the door. He saw the usual orders for apples and a letter from a relative, but he also noticed an unusual black envelope that was slightly larger than the rest of them

Before the red stallion could move to touch the letter, Applejack called him back into the dining room. “What is it?” Big Mac asked

“Did ya check Dave’s house to see if he had any post recently?” the blond earth pony asked her older brother

“Uh… nnnope,” Big Mac smiled innocently. “But everypony knows that Dave lives with Princess Celestia”

Applejack rolled her eyes, “I give ya one job, just make sure ya do it tomorrow”

Celestia noticed Nox yawn before he shuffled closer to Applebloom again, “I think it is time that we went home Nox”

Nox groaned as he finally slid off his chair, pausing to move back and kiss Applebloom on the cheek. “See ya soon Applebloom”

“Goodbye Nox, see ya soon,” Applebloom smiled as Nox followed his mother out of the house and towards the carriage. As he passed the stack of letters, the jet black envelope shook and disappeared again, leaving no trace it was ever there

Meanwhile…

Esk groaned as the same black letter appeared in her stack of paperwork, she removed the black letter from the stack and held it as she picked up a plain black phone and pressed one number

The phone rang twice before the sound of the warden came from the receiver, “Can I help you?”

“The letter to Inmate 1EC’s family has been returned again,” Esk looked at the untouched letter. “I think she may be ignoring it”

The warden sighed as he thought, “Well send it via express delivery that will get her attention”

“Yes sir,” Esk pulled open a draw on her desk and removed a smooth black brick and an elastic band. “Is there anything I can do for you sir?”

“Just hold my calls… well… any calls,” The warden hummed before returning to the topic at hand. “I will be meeting Inmate 1EC in a moment, he appears to have settled down nicely”

Esk nodded as she prepared to put the phone down, “ok sir, I will let you know if I get a response letter from Inmate 1EC’s family”

“Thank you Esk,” the warden said farewell before putting the phone down and looking around his office. The walls were still the normal smooth black that made up the rest of Tartarus, but the furniture was all made from varnished wood

The warden was sat on a leather chair, his large desk had neat stacks of paperwork and a small black cube that fit in one of his large hands. He sighed as he relaxed in his chair and held the cube between his hands

“Let’s see how you will react,” The cloaked warden hummed as his door began to vibrate, the noises of screams of pain and suffering before stopping with a sudden thud

“What the hell?” a voice hummed as the door handle turned and Dave poked his head into the room. “Why do you have a flying door? And who the fuck are you?”

The warden placed his cube on the desk, “I am the warden and please take a seat”

Dave stepped into the room and closed the door behind him, the orchestra of screams shrieked again before falling silent. The human walked over to the seat and sat down, his seat was smaller and was made of black stone

“So why am I here?” Dave licked his lips as he looked up at the larger being

“You tell me,” Warden leaned forward. “You originally came into Tartarus to search for a… vault?”

Dave gasped as he looked down at the golden key that hung around his neck by a tattered fabric. “The vault! My dad sent me here to find the vault and make sure the key got locked inside”

“Well there is no ‘Vault’ inside Tartarus, just convicts,” Warden shrugged. “Anyway I doubled your sentence to two Tartarien years”

“Wait what?” Dave looked up from his key his eyes glared at the warden. “Why is my sentence being extended? I didn’t do a crime originally!”

Warden shrugged, “You intrigue me and I wanted to test you before I let you back out into the outside world”

Dave yelled as he leapt at the warden, both his hands reached for his head. The human stopped in mid-air, Warden’s grey finger aimed at him. “I am the warden, I am god here,” Warden flicked his finger and sent Dave crashing back into his chair

“Fine, what do you want?” Dave snarled. “Will you let me go early if I pass?”

“Sure,” Warden reached over his desk and pulled the key away from Dave. “I’ll hold onto this for you, you get it back once you beat Inmate 2TA, AKA Swarm”

“I have been in this shithole for a year now, I have never seen 2TA but I heard about him,” Dave folded his arms as his fingers traced along his own mark

Warden stood to his full height of eleven feet, his long grey cloak shadowed his head and left Dave with an uneasy feeling. “We trim Swarm down every century or so, he eventually digests all inmates and makes them part of his body”

“So how am I supposed to find something that you cut to size?” Dave threw his arms into the air. “I have a life I need to go back to”

“I’ll make it easy for you,” Warden picked up the black cube and held it in one hand. “By the way… what is the name of your son?”

Dave snorted, “My son? His name is…” Dave’s eyes opened as he looked at his hands. “His name…” Dave shuddered as he rubbed his head, his mind scanning the floor as he struggle to think

“Tartarus is designed to do that,” Warden walked over to one of his work surfaces and placed the key on one of the shelves beside various ceremonial blades. “The pain and suffering makes your brain lock information away so you can’t adjust to normal life”

“Why are you telling me this?” Dave groaned as he looked up at the warden. “Why tell me these things? I can fix this when I get out”

Warden shook his head, “You can’t! You may leave Tartarus but Tartarus never leaves you”

“Go to hell!” Dave rolled his eyes. “We are already there though”

“True,” Warden massaged his wrist as he sat down again. “You can’t remember your reason for being here, your son and I doubt you can even remember the name of your lovers”

Dave stood up and slammed his hands onto the table, “SHUT UP! I know their names and I would never forget them!”

“Name one!” Warden leaned forwards as Dave’s head dropped and he began to groan loudly, the warden leaned back as Dave began to grip his head, pulling at his hair. “See? Tartarus makes you incapable of surviving on the outside”

“FUCK YOU!” Dave yelled as he paced around the room, growling as he tried to remember. “Just let me kill this other inmate and let me go!”

Warden tapped his black cube and the door clicked open, “Go on, I’ll see you soon”

Dave pulled the door open and stepped out into the large open area of the prison, all the other convicts stood staring at him, multiple tendrils connected the inmates. “When you said that Swarm makes inmates part of his body”

The warden’s door slammed shut as the warden placed down his cube. “Now we will see if you really are 1EC”

Chapter 67

Battering Ram and Flux both gasped for breath as they stopped running, dropping to their flanks as they tried to recover as quickly as possible. “We can do this, you can fly ahead if you need to,” Battering Ram coughed as he poured water over his face

“I need you to help me try and talk to Strong Shield,” Flux took the water bottle from Ram and poured the water into her mouth. “How much further?”

Battering Ram removed his saddlebag and pulled out a map and compass. “We still got an hour or two, we might make it about midnight if we stop once or twice”

“And it was sundown only a few hours ago,” Flux groaned. “We have to keep going, no matter what”

Meanwhile…

The creatures and inmates of Tartarus shook as the tendrils separated and dug into the bodies of their hosts. The first creature to approach Dave was 9FP, his eyes were blank as his mouth opened further than possible and a mass of tendrils swiped out and reached for Dave

The human dived to the side as the rest of the creatures began to advance, tentacles slowly consuming their bodies. The possessed inmates began to run, as they collided with each other a tendril would attach them and cause them to merge and mutate

“Get the hell away,” Dave growled as he avoided grabs and began hitting back at the inmates. Being forced to fight all the time had developed Dave’s reflexes and his punches landed with greater accuracy

As Dave ducked under a scrawny claw he landed an uppercut into the creatures’ chin, sending it into a few other monsters. The tendrils instantly reacted and began merging the bodies, reaching out at other infected creatures as it slowly became a large mass of tentacles that began moving towards the human

Dave ran down the black corridor as the tentacle monster chased him. “I have seen enough hentai to know where this is going!” he yelled with a smirk that turned into a frown. “Hang on… I REMEMBER THAT?”

Swarm managed to throw a tendril around Dave and drag him towards the swirling mass of tentacles. Dave managed to yank his arm away, snapping the tendril but Swarm quickly lurched forwards again

The tendril around Dave’s arm began to bulge and tighten around Dave’s skin. His vision shook as the piece of Swarm began to pump toxins into his body, making him feel ill and collapse to his knees

The mass of tendrils paused as it waited for the human to succumb to the tentacle that was slowly wrapping around his body. Dave fell to his back as he stared up at the black ceiling, “Extended sentence… for nothing”

Warden’s voice echoed through the halls of Tartarus as he sighed down the PA system. “Well this is a shame, I expected more from 1EC but it looks like his family will have to go without him for a little longer… you managed to resist the other inmates but Swarm takes you”

“Resist…” Dave raised his marked arm to look at his brand, a small part of Swarm’s tendril broke away to start wrapping around that arm. “I can resist magic… resist other’s power… why can’t I resist you?”

“What is that supposed to mean?” Warden snarled over the intercom. “I am the warden, I am the god here!”

Dave climbed to his feet and glared at the mass of tentacles and tendrils, his mark glowed as he growled. “I am not spending another minute in this place, I am going back to my family, back to Celestia, Luna, Nox, Strong Shield…” Dave began to sweat as his make began to burn brighter and the tendril around his body burst into flames and fell to the floor. “You want me to defeat Swarm? I will kick its ass!”

Dave raised his arm to face the swirling pool of flesh and tendrils, the monster screeched as its’ mark along one of the small tendrils, the source of the abomination began to burn as well

“I chose to come into Tartarus, I chose to look for the vault… but I won’t allow my life to be controlled by others anymore,” Dave snarled as he clenched his fist and the tendrils began to crumble away and turn to ash, leaving behind the pieces of the normal inmates. “I am going back to normality! I am sick of this prison and I am sick of all this pain!”

“1EC… you are killing something inside a prison where everything is meant to survive,” Warden hummed. “If you kill Swarm then I will be forced to take action against you”

Dave shook his head, “Nah, I won’t sit by and let others make decisions for me or try to pressure me into something,” the human dropped to his knees as he kept his burning arm aimed at the disintegrating monster. “You want to make a bet? To show how much faith in my abilities at taking control of my own life?”

“Sure,” Warden chuckled. “I bet you won’t adjust to living on the outside and you will come back here eventually, you have gotten a taste for eating the living”

Dave nodded, “fine, I bet that I can make Tartarus good for me… if I lose?”

“You spend eternity here and I make your punishment a thousand times worse every year,” Warden chuckled. “I love my job sometimes,” the warden sighed happily

“Shame because that is what I want when I win this little bet,” Dave smirked. “I saw the mark when you took my key, you must have beaten the previous warden and took over”

The warden’s door came sliding over to Dave as Swarm continued to burn. The door opened and the cloaked figure of the warden stood with the golden key in his grey palm. “Deal, see you soon Inmate 1EC”

Dave looked back at Swarm before roaring and opening his hand, causing the monster to burst and ash to get sent down the corridor. The human gasped for breath as his mark returned to normal and he stood to face the warden

The warden extended his hand and shook it with Dave’s, passing over the key in the process. “I don’t lose, think about that when you leave”

“I don’t intend to forget that you tried to extend my sentence,” Dave looked at the golden key in his palm. “You are lucky I have a family to help first”

“Stand before the orange orb in the main area and you will be taken to the reception so you can be released… for now,” Warden slammed his door before the wood began to fade from existence

Dave looked at his mark, “Resistance isn’t as futile as I thought”

Meanwhile…

Celestia yawned as she climbed into bed, glancing to the spot where Dave normally slept. “Maybe he has come back and is with Luna…” Celestia sighed as she looked back at her hooves. “So much for spending time together”

The white princess yawned before a black brick smashed through her window and landed on the bed. A black envelope attached with a red elastic band stared at the alicorn as she glanced between the smashed window and the letter

Celestia used her magic to repair the window and pick up the envelope, she had seen the simple wax symbol the sealed it one once before. The princess’ horn glowed as she teleported to her sister’s bedroom, seeing it was empty before teleporting to the throne room and finally the dining room, finally finding her sibling

“Luna we may have an issue,” Celestia placed the letter on the table in front of the surprised alicorn. Her eyes darted to the grey alicorn that sat with a bowl of ice cream. “What are you doing up?”

“I was talking to Auntie Luna,” Nox smiled innocently. “What’s the letter?”

Luna leaned forward and shuddered at the seal, “Why would they send another letter? Surely the Warden couldn’t have been replaced so soon”

“I am worried that it is a warning of some sort,” Celestia sighed as she broke the seal and removed the sheet of paper from within. “Dear Princess Celestia, as you know…”

Celestia’s eyes opened into a furious glare as she slowly snarled. Luna looked nervously at Nox before standing to look at the letter with her sister

Dear Princess Celestia,

As you know, your partner Dave has been admitted to Tartarus by the unicorn Strong Shield. The imprisonment was due last one day but I have doubled his time due to unforeseen circumstances.

Kind regards
Warden

“I am going to kill Strong Shield!” Celestia yelled as she stormed around the table and picked up Nox. “I can’t trust anypony with those I love”

Luna shook her head in disbelief as she read the letter, “This has to be wrong… where are you going?”

“To get my fiancée back and stick that blasted unicorn into that infernal prison,” Celestia snarled

“This isn’t like you,” Luna’s ears drooped as she walked over to her sister’s side. “I am coming to make sure you don’t do anything you might regret”

Celestia didn’t respond but her horn glowed and the flash of light engulfed all the alicorns and the reappeared over the spiked dome that was Tartarus fortress. They instantly spotted the diamond dragon that rested on top of the prison

“Adamas?” Celestia glared, “If I find out that Odio is involved then I will punish them all personally”

Nox flew beside his aunt as they all flew down to the dragon and stared at him. The diamond drake sat up and sighed, “When did you find out?”

“Where is Dave?” Celestia’s voice shook as she almost broke into tears. “I lost him once and I am not losing him to that prison!”

Luna shuddered as she saw her sister’s pain, “Please Adamas, can you tell us if it is true? Is Dave really in… Tartarus?”

“Yes,” Adamas dropped his head. “Strong Shield had a problem that only Dave could resolve… Dave volunteered to go in alone and…”

“Enough!” Celestia snapped. “Once I am through with Strong Shield then I will deal with you!”

Meanwhile…

“Something has to be wrong,” Strong Shield shook his head. “It has been past Dave’s planned time, he should be out by now”

Odio sighed as he pulsed red, “I am getting a lot of energy though, so… you know… silver lining and all that”

The unicorn sighed, “I just want this over with, all the fighting and having to protect”

Strong Shield and Odio both looked up at the large black cube as they hummed impatiently, Odio’s burning red eyes looked around the space they were in and sighed

“I spy with my little eye,” Odio paused as he saw Dave, naked, covered in multiple colours of blood and with eyes void of energy. “Well at least we know how bad Tartarus was”

Strong Shield ran over to Dave as the human fell to his knees, “Dave, are you ok?”

“I’m great,” Dave smirked, his hand held out the golden key as he showed it to Strong Shield. “The vault wasn’t in there… I spent a year getting eaten and going mad for nothing”

The black unicorn visibly shuddered as he looked at the floor. “Dave… I’m sor…” the floor shook as the top of the dome was hit by a monumental force. The human fell and the key flew from his hand, bouncing off something and producing a metallic chime

Odio floated over to the key and his fog swept across the floor, revealing a golden surface. “The vault was inside the walls, not the prison itself,” the fog chuckled. “So Dave had to pick up the soap for nothing”

Dave snarled as he glanced at Strong Shield. “Don’t worry, Tartarus helped me learn a few things so I won’t hold it against you”

“But I sent you in there…” Strong Shield shook his head as he walked over to the golden triangular prism that Odio was pulling from the ground. “Let’s just finish this,” the ex-guard sighed as he levitated the key up and towards a small gap that was large enough to fit into

Meanwhile…

Adamas reared again before roaring and ramming his head against the black wall of Tartarus fortress. “I may be able to break through and allow enough space for one of you to get through”

“We need to get in there and see what is going on,” Celestia frowned. “Keep going, even if you begin to feel tired”

Nox looked at the black fortress walls, “Is dad in trouble?”

Celestia sighed, “I don’t know, but I need to find out soon”

The grey alicorn hummed as he looked at the fortress, his eyes widened happily as an idea popped into his head. “I’ll go find out,” Nox said happily as he created a wormhole and dove through

“NO!” Celestia yelled as the wormhole closed before she could reach it. “ADAMAS HURRY!”

The diamond dragon flew up slightly and brought all his weight into a smash, causing the fortress dome to crack and the dragon to wobble slightly as it shook its’ head. The dragon began to prepare another smash as soon as it recovered

Meanwhile…

“DAD!” Nox cheered as he flew towards Dave, the golden vault behind the shocked human released a red light before bleeping loudly. The top opened and a set of golden restraints appeared and opened in preparation

Alicorn detected. Absorption success rating 68%. Activating Harvest.

Dave ran towards Nox, reaching a hand to the grey alicorn to grab him. But before the human could touch the colt, a golden claw grasped Nox’s hoof and began reeling it towards the open hatch

“Nothing touches my son!” Dave yelled as he grabbed the golden cable that grabbed Nox and was pulled into the golden vault. The golden clamps tried to hold Nox still but Dave began pulling them apart, dismantling the machine from the inside

Anomaly detected. Analysing.

A golden syringe stabbed Dave before taking a small sample of blood. The machine bleeped and paused in trying to restrain Nox before it growled back to life

New life form detected. Absorption success rating… 69%. Harvesting new life form.

“Ha ha,” Odio sniggered. “Sixty nine…”

The golden clamps around Nox released briefly, allowing Dave the chance to push open the hatch and throw his son to safety. “Hey Odio! Less jokes and more FUCKING HELP ME!” Dave yelled before clamps crabbed him and pulled him back into the mass of wires

Meanwhile…

“Oh no,” Flux gasped as they entered Tartarus courtyard, Cerberus was watching Adamas head-butt the black dome. She began to fly towards the dragon and saw that Celestia and Luna were both watching the dragon slowly break through

Battering Ram followed as much as he could from the ground as he watched Flux fly over to the princesses. “What the hay is going on?” He mumbled as he was forced to wait, the moonlight illuminated the fortress walls and allowed him to see the crack where Adamas was hitting

“Princesses!” Flux called as she neared the alicorns. Both the royal sisters looked at the Pegasus but Luna took the most surprised expression as she saw Flux approach and Ram on the ground. “What is going on?”

Luna turned to Flux. “You? What are you both doing here?”

“It’s a long story but it is urgent that we get into this fortress!” Flux looked at the large crack Adamas had made. “Dave is in trouble and so is all of Equestria if we don’t hurry!”

Celestia gritted her teeth as she looked at the dragon, the Pegasus, the earth pony and her sister. “Luna get the other pony, you get ready to go in, and Adamas… give it everything”

Adamas grabbed the dome with his claws as he reared his head back. Luna raced over to Battering Ram and quickly grabbed him with magic. As the dragon gave one final smash against the dome it finally gave way, creating a large enough hole for all the ponies to rush in

Celestia saw Strong Shield and rushed over, venom in her eyes as she glared at the unicorn. “WHERE IS HE?”

“In the vault!” Strong Shield pushed his worries aside as he continued to hold the crying Nox. Odio was wrapped around the top of the golden prism as he groaned

“Has anyone got a towel I can use? Because this jar is tough,” The fog grunted as it pulled at the sealed hatch

“MOVE!” Battering Ram yelled as Luna placed him on the ground. The huge earth pony charged at the vault, ignoring the glare from Strong Shield as he leapt and brought his front hooves against the top of the vault, causing it to tip and fall to the ground

Flux ran over and began bucking the top of the vault, Battering Ram gave a large kick and caused the hatch to dent, opening it at the edges enough for Odio to slip through and began expanding from within and breaking the machine from the inside

“I got him!” Odio cheered as the hatch popped open and the fog raced out, Dave’s legs dangled out of the dense fog as Odio pulled him to safety. “Only minor head scars so we are ok!”

Strong Shield stared at the vault as its’ noises switched from mechanical to organic. “Everypony out! Adamas BURN IT!”

“How dare you!” Celestia towered over Strong Shield as she glared down at the stallion. “You used my fiancée enough times without dragging him into this torture!”

“Enough chit-chat!” Odio wrapped his fog around everyone and began funnelling them out the hole. “Alright scales you can do the fire trick now!”

Adamas waited until everypony was clear of Tartarus before sticking his head in the hole and breathing fire at the broken vault, a sickening screech met his ears but was quickly silenced as he added more force and the gold began to melt

The dragon prepared to let out another blast but saw that nothing was moving and everything was covered in soot. Before pulling his head out, the dragon noticed Dave’s trenchcoat was draped over the front of the Daedalus. He pulled his head out and reached in with his claw to retrieve the clothing before flying away from the hole and regrouping with the crowd of angry ponies on the other side of the ravine

Luna and Nox were holding Dave’s sleeping body as Celestia glared down at Strong Shield, tears running down her face. “Of all the ponies I could trust… it had to be you that tried to destroy my happiness”

“Princess Celestia, it was me that drove Strong Shield to do this,” Battering Ram stood in front of the dark unicorn. “If anypony is to be punished then it should be me”

“Me too,” Flux rushed to Ram’s side. “It is our fault this got out of hoof”

“Fine,” Celestia snarled. “You can all spend time in prison together,” the white alicorn turned to Luna. “Take them to Canterlot and make sure every guard knows that they are to be imprisoned and only I am allowed to see them”

Luna shuddered as she saw the hatred behind her sister’s eyes. “Ok, just make sure we can talk before anything else happens”

Celestia walked over to Dave as she wrapped a wing around her son, “Adamas, can you carry Dave straight to Canterlot and then Odio can take him straight to the medical ward”

The dragon slowly picked up Dave with his claws and allowed the black fog to cling to him before taking flight. The fog’s red eyes moved to look at the unconscious Dave, “Celestia sure looks pissed, wait until she sees the scars on Dave’s head then she will burst a blood vessel”

Celestia’s horn glowed as she teleported herself and Nox to Canterlot castle and appeared in Celestia’s quarters. “Nox I need you to be brave, mummy is going to do some errands but when daddy gets here I want you to stay with him ok?”

“Ok mummy,” Nox rubbed the tears from his frightened eyes. “That golden machine made lots of scary noises and daddy was yelling and he went silent and… and…” the colt held back tears as he hugged his mother, Celestia holding back her own tears as she gently rubbed his mane

“It’s ok,” Celestia said soothingly. “Everything is going to be ok from now on… I’ll make sure of it”

Chapter 68

Dave’s eyes slowly flickered open as he sat up, clean hospital bedding fell away as he lifted his arms. He looked around and saw he was in the medical wing of Canterlot castle, the other beds vacant and only a grey alicorn slept on a chair beside Dave’s bed

The human smiled at the sight and made himself more comfortable as he looked at his body. The blood stains had been cleaned away and he had been partially dressed with a pair of pants and a thin shirt. His left arm was wrapped in a white bandage and it had completely covered his mark, obviously hiding it away from anypony who might randomly come in with an injury

As Dave rubbed his hand along his head he felt a distinctive bump, his fingers found the source at his forehead, the scar split into two lines that Dave could trace with his thumb and index finger that reached over his scalp and ended at the base of his skull

“If we shaved that middle section and tattooed it then it would look like an eye,” Odio chuckled weakly as he floated through the door and over to Dave. “How you doing buddy?”

Dave stared at the fog before smiling, “I’m fine Odio, but… why am I in the infirmary?

“The vault must have pulled out an important bit,” the fog hummed. “What are the names of your lovers?”

Dave frowned slightly, he instantly knew that Odio must be wondering how much he remembered “Celestia and Luna”

“Shit,” Odio sighed. “You still remember that bit… ok… what is the vault?”

“The what?” Dave rose an eyebrow, he could keep everypony happy and away from him if they thought everything was happy and normal. “Is that some kind of wedding tradition here? Because I feel more comfortable talking to Celestia about it”

The black fog of hatred floated around Dave, “huh, you seem to be fine.” Odio paused before closing the gap between him and the human. “Tartarus?”

Dave’s expression turned blank, “No I am fine for Tartar sauce… What is with this interrogation?”

The fog hummed in thought, “All I am going to say is that during your… accident, you lost a small chunk of your brain”

“Lost some of my brain?” Dave’s jaw dropped, he scratched his chin as he thought of the next piece of his act. “Anything important?”

“Your head is full of useless crap so you didn’t lose anything important,” Odio commented before floating closer to look at Dave’s scar. “It appears to have slowed your healing but that should only be temporary”

Dave rubbed his head before he became lost in his own thoughts, “Hey Odio? Can you take Nox and go let Celestia know I’m ok?”

“Sure thing,” Odio carefully wrapped his fog around the grey alicorn as he continued to sleep. “I guess you need some alone time eh?”

Dave shrugged as Odio opened the door and left the room. Dave kept his smile until he was sure Odio had completely left before replacing it with a neutral expression, he climbed out of bed before peeking his eye out the ajar door and noticing two guards outside

He carefully closed the door before returning to his bed, “Alright, this certainly changes things,” he sighed as he scratched his chin. “Plan, plan, plan… need a plan,” Dave laid down as he pulled the bed covers up to his neck

“It is safe to assume that they don’t want me to remember Tartarus,” Dave mumbled as he tapped his feet together. “Ok, find out what happened to other part of my brain, until then, act dumb”

Dave didn’t have much time to start thinking of a backup plan before he heard hoovesteps coming his way, the sound of the guards saluting gave him a brief warning to sit up as Celestia and Luna stepped into the medical wing

“Hey,” Dave smiled as both the alicorns rushed to his sides and wrapped their hooves around his neck. “Woah! Ok, still need air you know!” He smirked as both the alicorns released their iron grips and sat next to the beds with their hooves holding onto Dave’s hands

“We were so worried when we found out that you went to… I mean, you had your accident,” Luna smiled, sending a nervous glance to Celestia. “Do you still remember that we became a um… item?”

Dave rolled his eyes as he squeezed Luna’s hoof, “Of course I remember, I think I can remember some smaller details now that I couldn’t before”

“Just don’t hesitate to ask if you feel a bit confused at any point,” Celestia smiled. “But Nurse Redheart insisted that you stay here until she clears you”

“Ok fine,” Dave groaned. “So will I come find you both later? I would hate to keep you both away from your duties because I had a slight mishap”

Celestia’s ears drooped as she stood up, “I have some things to attend to but I will see you later… I just hate leaving you like this.” The white alicorn leaned forward and nuzzled Dave’s neck, smiling as the human kissed her cheek

“I’ll be fine,” Dave smiled reassuringly, his hand stroking Celestia’s soft fur. “I’ll see you soon ok?”

“Ok,” Celestia kissed Dave before saying her goodbyes and leaving Dave alone with Luna

The dark alicorn shuffled closer to Dave as she smiled, “I don’t have anything to do and I am too worried to sleep.” Luna’s hoof seemed to hold onto Dave’s hand as she cleared her throat, “you don’t mind if I stay here for a little while do you?”

Dave held back the urge to groan and replaced it with a smile, “Not at all, so has anypony got anything planned that is coming up soon?”

“You did have that peace talk coming up between the gryphons and the changelings,” Luna tapped her chin. “I’m sure Celestia or I could take over for you”

“No, I will be fine by then,” Dave rubbed his head. “This is only temporary anyway… what kind of business does Celestia have at the moment anyway?”

Meanwhile…

Strong Shield stared vacantly at his cell wall, his eye blinked occasionally and his rising and falling chest was the only indication that he was still alive. In the cells opposite the unicorn’s were Battering Ram and Flux

Flux sat near her cell door and watched Strong Shield breathe, “We are so sorry for everything we did, you shouldn’t blame yourself”

“Why shouldn’t he?” Celestia frowned as she stepped into the dungeon. “He forced Dave to go into Tartarus for his selfish needs”

Battering Ram walked over to his cell door and stared at the white princess, “Strong Shield never forces anypony to do what he can at least attempt”

“But he knew that Dave would try to do something for him,” Celestia glared back at the ponies. “Dave is too kind and will always do anything to protect his family, something Strong Shield took advantage of”

“What are you going to do?” Battering Ram flared his nostrils. “If you try to hurt Strong Shield then I will stand in your way because I am not losing him again”

“Strong Shield is going to have all his accomplishments taken away, struck from the record books,” Celestia moved her gaze back to the unicorn. “He dedicated his life to the guards so I will take away what he almost took from me”

Flux shuddered as Strong Shield didn’t respond, “Please Princess Celestia, Strong Shield has done more good than anypony I know”

“I don’t care,” Celestia snapped. “He tried to take Dave away so I will take revenge”

“Then you should abdicate you hypocrite!” Battering Ram snarled, his anger remained even as Celestia moved to stand in front of his prison. “You killed Dave before, sent him to fight dragons, used the elements of freaking harmony on him and you aren’t allowed to be punished?”

Celestia’s horn glowed as she glared at the earth pony that was only a tiny bit shorter than her. “I suffered, I spent night after night crying when Dave was gone!”

“Then look at Strong Shield!” Flux pleaded. “He is broken, he doesn’t show emotion because it is his way of coping and I hope he never changes because I am afraid that if he feels guilty for one thing then it will all come back to haunt him”

“And how would you know what Strong Shield is really like?” Celestia snarled

“BECAUSE I LOVE HIM!” Flux yelled as she threw herself at the jail cell door. “He did everything for the guards, he did everything for Dave, he stood up to you once before and you still haven’t repaid him even after it was your mistake!”

The princess of the sun stepped closer to the lavender Pegasus, “Strong Shield sent Dave into Tartarus! That is unforgiveable!”

“Strong Shield isn’t yours to punish,” Battering Ram barked angrily. “If Dave suffered that much then get him down here! Don’t go assuming what Dave wants!”

Strong Shield turned his head to look up at Celestia, everypony went silent as the unicorn shuddered. “I’m sorry… if I had known then I would have… I’m sorry,” Strong Shield closed his eye as his body visibly shook and he began to gently cry, “I didn’t want him to get hurt, I thought he could handle it… I thought… I thought… I’m sorry”

Celestia stared in wonder at the unicorn, even Battering Ram and Flux stopped to look at Strong Shield as he slowly slid down the wall and curled into a ball on the dirty floor of his prison cell

“I have known him for over thirty years,” Battering Ram shook his head in disbelief. “This is the first time I have seen him cry”

The princess regained her composure as she turned around and headed for the exit, only to be stopped by Flux’s wing. “What is it?” Celestia snapped

“I don’t know anything about Dave before he came to Equestria, nopony truly does,” Flux pointed to the emotionally broken Strong Shield. “But I know that Strong Shield is his father, without a doubt in my mind that Dave would have insisted on helping if Strong Shield had tried to deter him”

“But he didn’t,” Celestia sighed, “He just let Dave waltz into Tartarus and didn’t think what effects Dave would suffer from, didn’t think if he had gotten something wrong”

“Like how you got Dave confused with Odio because of one magical blast?” Battering Ram shook his head as he walked over to his stone bed and laid down. “I am ashamed to have been a guard if this was the princess I was protecting”

Flux began to ignore Celestia as she tried to reach a wing across the corridor and towards Strong Shield. “Don’t cry Strong Shield, you don’t cry… you shouldn’t have to cry,” Flux’s head dipped as Strong Shield dragged himself over to a corner of his cell and huddled his good eye into a hoof whilst his scar remained on display

Celestia looked into the cell with Strong Shield before she resumed snarling, “I will deal with you all later, and don’t expect any pity”

Meanwhile…

“YEE HAW!” The amber pony smirked to his slightly larger treasure hunting friend. “I told ya that there were ancient ruins!”

The stallion with the pick axe cutie mark gawped at the large broken, black dome. “That doesn’t look that ancient”

The scrawnier pony shook his head, “Ya just don’t get it do ya?” he brushed the dirt from his shovel cutie mark. “Ya gotta trust treasure maps, they lead you to wondrous treasures!”

“Like that skeleton that turned out to be Prince Dave?” The larger earth pony frowned. “All our money literally walked off, you kept running down random tunnels that turned out to be an abandoned mine shaft AND you lost half your blood to that pony the other night”

“Ahh, Fang was such a nice mare,” the scrawny pony sighed happily

“She was a bucking vampony! She would have killed you if I hadn’t got her with a wooden stake”

The scrawny pony waved his hooves as he walked over to the large dome and saw the entrance to a large courtyard beside it. He skipped over with the bigger pony in tow as they stepped into the courtyard and saw the large three headed dog retreat to a corner as it briefly sniffed a small mound on the ground

The scrawny pony ran over to the oddly coloured object and hopped on the spot, “Ancient alien bones!”

“That looks like a carapace for one of them quarray eels, only smaller,” the smarter pony frowned as he got closer. “And those look like dragon scales, changeling horns, gryphon claws… everything is here”

“Woo hoo!” The scrawny pony cheered. “We are gonna be rich when we sell this abomination to some lab somewhere”

The mass suddenly lunged and two large rows of fangs stopped short of the ponies. “Kkkkaaannttaarrlllllooootttt” it gargled loudly as it dragged itself closer to the terrified treasure hunters

“Umm… that way,” The larger pony pointed the way he had just come. The mass of flesh crawled away as the ponies let out a sigh of relief. “That was close… what the hay are ya doing now?”

The scrawny pony was using his hooves to scratch Cerberus’ tummy and was smiling to himself as the dog laid on its back and all three heads looked happy. “I reckon we could sell this to a pet shop somewhere!”

Chapter 69

Dave sat at the end of his bed, his fingers played with the bandage that covered his arm. Luna had recently left the medical wing but had also left Dave with a slight sense of confusion and wonder

“Why do they insist on keeping me here? Is it to ascertain my condition or… merely rehabilitate me?” Dave tapped his scar as he hummed. “Something is definitely missing, but what? Certainly not my memories”

The human’s eyes widened in realization as he sucked air through his teeth, “Now it makes sense… time for me to clear Dave’s schedule and start making informed decisions”

Dave stood up and walked out of the medical wing, the guards exchanged confused glances before following the human. “Excuse me your majesty but aren’t you supposed to be waiting for Nurse Redheart before you can leave?”

“Then tell her to find me in the castle library,” Dave pointed at the guard before moving his hand to look at the other one. “Can you retrieve me some trousers?”

“Yes sir!” Both guards saluted before marching away to attend their given tasks

Dave continued to stride down the corridors as he made his way into the large library, the large hourglass continued to flow as Dave walked around it and over to the large window. He took a deep breath before walking over to one of the shelves and selecting the first book

The pages quickly flew by before Dave closed the book, his eyes still moving as if he was scanning the paragraphs within the book. “Interesting…” he muttered as he moved onto the next book and began making his way across the shelf, soaking in the information stored in the books

As Dave finished reading the entire wall of books he turned to look at the rest of the library. “Very interesting indeed…” he rubbed his chin but was interrupted as the library door opened and a frowning Nurse Redheart stepped in with a large bag

“You were supposed to be resting in bed until I was sure you were ok,” the white earth pony groaned as she put down her medical bag. “What would have happened if you had collapsed?”

“I would have fallen over for a start,” Dave rolled his head to look at the nurse. “I am in perfect health and I don’t require any treatment or observation”

Nurse Redheart scoffed, “That is for me to decide, now would you please let me give you a check-up now and then come back to the medical wing so I can analyse your condition further?”

“I have a dull feeling in my head, nothing more, nothing less,” Dave looked past the nurse as the door opened and a guard levitated a clean set of jeans over to Dave. “Thank you, you may return to your duties,” he called as he quickly dressed himself

“I am afraid that if you don’t do as I ask then I will have to inform Princess Celestia or Princess Luna,” Nurse Redheart sighed as she used her guilt card. “They have been worried enough without having to chase after you”

Dave shrugged, “If they wish to busy themselves then so be it, Luna is asleep and Celestia is working so go ahead and disturb them”

Nurse Redheart looked at the human before her eyes darted to her bag. “You want me to go and find them?”

“I don’t care what you do at the moment,” Dave walked over to one of the bookshelves before taking one from the shelves. “If my health becomes an issue then I will come find you,” Dave emphasised by tapping a medical book he had just finished reading. “I know the symptoms”

“I can hold you against your will due to the fact that you appear to be suffering mentally,” Nurse Redheart rose an eyebrow as Dave paused to look at her. “I have never seen you read a book before, let alone read an encyclopaedia in ten seconds”

Dave tapped the spine of the next book as he looked down at himself, “Well I need to know a few things so there is no point hanging around when something needs to be done”

Meanwhile…

Nox groaned as a plate of broccoli was placed in front of him, “Aww these taste bad, can I have something else?”

“I’m afraid not,” Celestia sighed as she poked at her spinach, he face covered with a frown. “We had a large meal at the Apple’s home, we need to eat these to get other minerals and vitamins in our diet”

The grey alicorn pushed the plate away as he folded his hooves, “we don’t need to eat anyway. Can I have ice-cream instead?”

“No Nox we can’t!” Celestia snapped, moving her gaze up to look at the startled colt. The white princess dripped her head in guilt before looking back at her son. “I’m sorry for shouting but you need to learn that… I just like feeling normal”

Nox tapped his hooves nervously before pulling his plate closer and began to nervously chew his green broccoli. “I’m sorry mummy, if I had known then I would have told the truth… I like broccoli”

“Then why did you lie?” Celestia frowned as Nox’s wings twitched nervously

“Applebloom said she didn’t like them so I thought that I could convince myself I didn’t like them too,” The grey colt used his magic to levitate another piece of broccoli into his mouth

Celestia pushed her plate away as she rested her head on her hooves. “We do silly things for those we love”

Nox hummed happily as he finished his broccoli, “Didn’t dad meet you by doing something silly?”

“It was a house warming party and Dave got the wrong barrel of cider,” Celestia smiled as she thought back. “He was having fun, so was everypony, even Luna… except me”

“Why?” Nox tilted his head as he looked at his mother in confusion. “Didn’t you like the music?”

“It was more the fact that no matter how hard I try, I will always be slightly more isolated than anypony else,” Celestia sat up as she felt a chill wash over her. “Luna is always willing to try new things and I took it upon myself to make sure that I remain responsible”

The young alicorn looked at the princess of the sun with a smile, “But dad is different!”

“He talked to everypony that night, said hello, shared stories… but when he found me sat on the stairs and sat down beside me,” Celestia smiled as she reminisced. “He said ‘Why do you look so upset Celestia?’ with the most casual tone that anypony could say”

“And you fell in love because of that?” Nox shrugged. “I suppose that he sounded better back then”

Celestia shook her head gently, “Dave talked to me, shared secrets and listened to a few of my own.” The white alicorn smiled as she lifted a hoof to her engagement ring that still sat on her horn. “And I remember thinking ‘Equestria owes me’ and planting a kiss on his lips, I don’t know if anypony saw but I didn’t care”

“But didn’t you worry that dad was drunk and wasn’t thinking properly?” Nox took a sip of his juice before looking back to his mother

“The next morning I did but he stopped that train of thought before it left the platform,” Celestia giggled softly behind a hoof. “He was so strange, we talked long after everypony else had left and he even cried at one point… right before we became an item”

Nox smiled as he finished his drink, “That sounds way better than how me and Applebloom got together.” The colt looked at the empty glass before a maid came and cleared the plates away. “So what exactly is it about dad that makes him important? You always look sad when he isn’t around”

“Your father is special, he always was reckless but I suppose he never cared about his own safety because he was protecting us,” Celestia’s smile vanished as Battering Ram’s words flashed through her mind

Hypocrite

The princess looked down at her hooves as she shuddered, “I forget that it isn’t just me and him.” The alicorns sat in silence before Celestia shook her head and stood up, “I have somepony I need to see”

“Ok mum, is it ok if I can go to Ponyville for a little while?” Nox smiled sweetly. “I promise I will let you know if anything happens”

Celestia sighed, “Ok just be back by tonight, I want us to spend a day with dad soon”

“Thanks mum!” Nox quickly leapt over to his mother’s side as he wrapped his arms around her neck before running out the room

The remaining alicorn thanked the maid that took her plate away before standing up and leaving the dining table, leaving the room in the direction of the guard barracks. Celestia walked calmly as she entered the room full of guards

The guards all instantly got to their hooves and saluted their princess but were left without a response as she walked straight for the dungeon door, levitating the prison keys away from the nearby jailor before disappearing out of sight. Celestia walked down the dirty steps before arriving in the dimly lit corridor

Strong Shield was still sat at the far end of his cell, his food was being picked at by a rat while he continued to stare at the floor. Flux sat by her cell door, watching Strong Shield as she longed to comfort him. Battering Ram was breathing gently as he rested on his stone bed, one of his massive hooves over his eyes

“You, come with me,” Celestia frowned as she unlocked the jail cell and allowed the heavy door to swing open. She glared at the earth pony as he slowly rolled onto his front and stood up, staring blankly at the princess as he followed her out of the dungeon

Celestia walked determinedly as the earth pony received glares from all the guards, his eyes scanning the groups until he spotted a particular Pegasus. The huge earth pony changed course and walked over to the table that Matrix and Night Stalker were using

“You a hybrid?” Battering Ram narrowed his eyes at the striped Pegasus

“Yeah, what about it?” Matrix glared, going in the defensive as he looked up at the navy earth pony. “You one too?”

“Yeah, it means you will go far in the guards,” Battering Ram chuckled. “Take it from me, don’t let anypony give you any hassle for it”

Night Stalker noticed Celestia was glaring impatiently at the prisoner. “Princess, would you like me to detain the prisoner?”

“If you try then I will break you in half,” Battering Ram snorted. “That sad excuse of a princess doesn’t deserve royal guards, let alone Dave”

The charcoal Pegasus stood up, along with half the guards that heard the comment. Battering Ram focused his gaze on Night Stalker, “Wait until she lets you down, then you will understand”

Celestia gave Battering Ram a cold stare as he resumed following her, the white alicorn led Battering Ram to an old office room and waited for him to take a seat before sitting opposite him. “Tell me about Strong Shield”

“You are desperate to find something bad aren’t you?” Battering Ram folded his hooves. “Strong Shield once crippled somepony that he cared deeply about”

“Who?” Celestia leaned forwards as Battering Ram stood up and showed his back to the princess, a deep, round scar was carved into a spot in the centre of his spine. “Why did he do this to you?”

Battering Ram smirked as he sat down, “For the guards, he was ordered to kill me and Flux because we were assisting Puppetmaster… he broke my spine, left Flux under a chandelier and left the building to burn”

Celestia looked down at the table before looking back up at the earth pony, “Strong Shield has to be punished for what he did, it was treason and it demands justice”

“You really don’t know what to do, do you?” Battering Ram shook his head. “Strong Shield has suffered his entire life in silence, devoted everything to the guards and he finally lets somepony help him… well one human help him and suddenly everypony ends up hating him”

“What he did to Dave is unforgiveable, Strong Shield made Dave do it because Dave would do anything to protect his family,” Celestia shuddered as the memory of Dave throwing himself in front of a spear suddenly surface. “Strong Shield is an emotionless user”

Battering Ram shook his head, “Strong Shield doesn’t want to burden others.” The earth pony sighed as he looked at Celestia, “Do you want to hear a story about something Strong Shield did once? It was a little over thirty years ago…”

Chapter 70

30 years ago…

“Three hours of adjustments and it is still too small,” Battering Ram groaned as he pulled his helmet off his head. “Why can’t they just let me handle this?”

“Because it still has to look presentable and not have any silly additions to it,” Strong Shield sighed as he looked at his notepad. “You would want to add stripes or some other nonsense,” The unicorn closed his book and dropped it on his bunk as he rubbed his eyes

Battering Ram reluctantly nodded before removing the rest of his armour and placing it on a mannequin at the end of the bunk room. Strong Shield looked around the stone room, his bunk was clean and his armour was finely polished

As the huge earth pony sat back down on his bunk, the door swung open and Flux stomped in, throwing her helmet at the mannequin before dropping onto her bed. Battering Ram and Strong Shield shrugged before Flux sat up to glare at them

“Aren’t you going to ask what’s wrong?” The lavender mare growled

Battering Ram shook his head, “We learnt that if we talk to you when you are angry then we get yelled at”

“Yeah, no offense but we don’t like being a target for your minor issues,” Strong Shield sighed in defeat as Flux glared at him. “Ok, what happened?”

Flux angrily pulled the hairband out of her mane before shaking her head and letting her mane fall back into its normal place. “That stupid pea-brained colt of a guard thought he had the right to touch my flank as I was handing in my patrol report card”

“Which idiot are we talking about?” Battering Ram raised an eyebrow. “Are we on about Steel Wings or Swift?”

“Steel Wings is a moron but at least he has the decency to be afraid of me,” Flux groaned. “Swift had his hoof on my flank and whispered into my ear, ‘I have been planning a drill, you should try it’, and I was almost sick”

Strong Shield glared briefly at the floor before turning his head back to Flux, “Have you told Captain Sharp Eye?”

“No,” Flux shook her head at the idea. “He has enough on his plate trying to find us info about Puppetmaster without having to worry about our personal issues”

“If he has the nerve to recruit us and keep us as recruits for a year then he can damn well make sure the guards don’t harass us,” Battering Ram sneered before smirking. “Well nopony bothers me after that one fight and nopony bothers Strong Shield because he could do their job if he wanted”

Flux groaned as she fell back onto her bed, “When I agreed to being recruited I thought that I would show what mares could do, but so far I am being treated like some kind of stress relief for the stallions!”

“Well it took a lot of courage for you to be the first mare guard,” Strong Shield smiled. “But you really shouldn’t throw your helmet as it ruins the polish”

“Oh no, watch out Flux, the armour guard is on patrol,” Battering Ram joked as he made ghost noises. “Watch out he’s gonna make you polish and add some wax!”

The door opened and a guard stepped in, his formal composure made all three recruits quickly stand to attention. “Personally I think the wax makes an odd smell,” The purple armour the belonged to the captain of the guard was worn by a tidy white unicorn, his golden mane was combed and his piecing blue eyes matched the eagle eye cutie mark that sat on his flank. “How is everything going with my recruits?”

“Good sir!” The ponies all echoed each other as they remained saluting. The door closed as Sharp Eye gently used his magic to remove a small scroll

“I have found out that we may be able to gain some information on Puppetmaster’s plans,” The captain of the guard passed over the scroll as he waited for the recruits to read the information. “I am unsure as to the identity of the courier but it won’t hang around if it detects trouble”

Strong Shield hummed as he continued to read the vague information, “So anypony who is running may be the courier, but it is summer in Canterlot and we are going to a busy street”

“Nopony said it would be easy,” Battering Ram chuckled. “So are we going in without our armour?”

“Yes, it will buy you more time and hopefully the courier won’t scarper,” Sharp Eye nodded as he moved back to the door. “Your orders are to get that information, if it means force then use it”

As the captain of the guard left the room the recruits began to organise themselves, Flux removing the rest of her armour with haste before placing it on her mannequin. As the mare finished, the group all left together, walking through the busy barracks before hurrying through the castle corridors

The group emerged onto the castle courtyard, making their way straight for the gates before finally stepping out onto Canterlot’s cobbled streets. Flux nodded to her teammates before taking to the air and flying high above the ground

Strong Shield waved his hoof to the small shape in the sky and it did a loop to signal its acknowledgement. “Alright, Flux will keep over-watch whilst we go in,” Strong Shield nodded to Battering Ram before they both walked into the crowd that was walking alone the main street

“So how are you and Flux getting on?” Battering Ram scanned the crowd using his height whilst Strong Shield gave him a curious stare

“Fine, why?” The black unicorn glimpsed at a passing Pegasus before looking back into the dense crowd

Battering Ram chuckled, “I saw the look you made when you heard that Flux was being hit on,” the huge earth pony smirked. “You were pretty angry from what I saw,” Battering Ram ignored Strong Shield’s snort

“Just looking out for a work colleague,” the unicorn replied. “It isn’t like I have a crush on her or anything”

“I never said that,” Battering Ram smirked as Strong Shield blushed slightly. “You love that sleek mare don’t ya?”

“Shut up,” Strong Shield chuckled as he looked amongst the crowd. The various colours and races made identifying anything unusual almost impossible as a red unicorn walked past with a green Pegasus.

Strong Shield looked up at the sky as he pretended to stretch his neck, his eyes moving to see Flux continuing with her flight. He spotted a pony wearing a large cape that covered most of the body and only allowed its gold hooves and glowing blue eyes to be visible. “I would class that as odd”

Battering Ram nodded as he saw the same pony, “Yeah, you had me at the glowing eyes”

Strong Shield sent a signal to Flux by pretending to stretch his neck, pointing his horn at the suspect in the process. Both the stallions walked towards the cloaked pony, avoiding ponies as they crossed the busy street

The suspect walked at a constant pace, its head turned smoothly to look at the pair as they had to change course to try and intercept the suspect. The glowing eyes flickered before a small beep made the suspect face forward again

“Have we been spotted?” Battering Ram whispered, his curious expression turned to an annoyed one as the cloaked pony suddenly bolted forward and began running at full pace down the street, effortlessly weaving through the crowd

Strong Shield pushed a stallion aside as he chased the suspect, Battering Ram running behind as Flux dived out of the air to help the pursuit. The cloaked pony didn’t look back as it moved for one of the quieter side streets and ran towards a high wall, jumping without preparation and cleared the jump with ease

“Like I’m going to be beaten by some crook,” Strong Shield snarled as he put all his effort into jumping and managed to get his front hooves onto the top of the wall. He watched the cloaked pony stop as it was met by a locked gate, the top was spiked and was taller than the wall it had jumped over

Flux dove down and landed in the small garden that the suspect had cornered itself into. Battering Ram watched as Strong Shield pulled himself over the wall and left the earth pony behind

“Don’t worry about me,” Battering Ram smirked as he charged at the brick wall. “I’ll make my own way”

The suspect turned as Battering Ram burst through the wall, bricks and rubble sent everywhere as he continued his charge at the pony. The suspect made another beep before rolling to the side, leaving its brown cloak behind as Battering Ram ran into the cheap cloth

Strong Shield and Flux stared at the golden pony, its eyes were two circular lights held by a few wires inside a golden skull. The body was a golden ribcage with a cluster of wires and bits of metal held into the chest. Its limbs were almost a cluster of pipes with tubes running along to the cluttered hooves that were made of various gold plates. Where the mane should be was replaced with an oval hatch and its tail was another coil of wires that ended in a silver plug

“What the hay?” Flux muttered before the robot spun the top half of its body to lash out with its front hooves. Strong Shield darted forward but was stopped as the robot quickly changed course and began to swipe at him

Battering Ram pulled the cloak off his head and turned to deliver a powerful punch with his front hoof. The robot beeped again before using its rotating body to grab the hoof and spin its hind legs into Ram’s face

As the earth pony recoiled, Flux and Strong Shield darted forward to help. The robot’s head rotated to look at Flux before extending a hoof, the flat end opened and a long golden spike shot out towards the advancing Pegasus

“No!” Strong Shield yelled as he threw his hoof into the path of the spike, grunting as the point easily went into his leg. The unicorn roared in anger as he spun in the air, using the momentum from the spike to help him turn and strike the robot across the face, slashing out one of its eyes and knocking the hatch from the robot’s head to reveal the sliced and wired brain inside

The robot bleeped loudly as it hopped away from the ponies, the sound of gears turning stopped as the robot quickly turned and ran away, leaving Flux and Battering Ram to aid Strong Shield

“Did I get it?” Strong Shield groaned as he held his bleeding hoof. “I think that spike may have broken a bone… I think”

Battering Ram picked up the broken eye and the hatch, a small engraving was cut into the inside of the metal. “Mark Two?”

“Should we go after it?” Flux looked up at her teammate. “If there are more then I think we should find out”

“No,” Strong Shield grunted as he stood on his good legs. “It almost got us and there are three of us and one of… whatever it was, I think we should report this immediately”

Flux took the hatch and eye from Battering Ram before looking back at Strong Shield. “Thanks for protecting me… I’ll make it up to you someday”

“No need,” Strong Shield smiled confidently as his leg continued to bleed. “What are friends for?”

Present day…

“Strong Shield has always been protecting others but he hasn’t always been… emotionless,” Battering Ram rubbed his face and tapped his faint crow’s feet beside his eyes. “Admittedly we were all better looking when we were younger”

Celestia narrowed her eyes at Battering Ram, “Strong Shield has never been that kind and there were never any robot ponies”

“Because we… Strong Shield stopped them,” Battering Ram looked down at himself in guilt before glaring back at Celestia. “And you are beginning to choose what to remember”

“Are you accusing me of lying?” The princess rose a judgemental eyebrow

“Strong Shield was in the hospital for a few months because he jumped in front of a spike when he was protecting Dave,” Battering Ram sneered as Celestia glanced away. “If you spent more time worrying about what Dave wants rather than what you think he needs then maybe he wouldn’t have to do things to protect others”

Celestia sighed as she looked at her golden regalia on her hooves, “I don’t want Dave being used, I want him to be happy”

“Then why don’t you let Strong Shield go?” Battering Ram almost pleaded. “He doesn’t deserve to be punished”

The princess shook her head before returning to her stern glare, “You probably made that story up, I’ve never heard it and Strong Shield wouldn’t lie or withhold information”

“Strong Shield wouldn’t send anypony in Tartarus by force?” Battering Ram folded his hooves

“No he…” Celestia stammered before glaring at the earth pony. “Go back to your cell!”

Meanwhile…

Dave stepped out of the library, Nurse Redheart sent him a glare as she stepped out alongside him. “If either princess found out that you left the medical ward without an examination then they will hold me responsible”

“They won’t bother punishing you,” Dave looked down the corridors. “If you don’t mind, I have some important business”

“What happened to you?” Nurse Redheart shook her head sadly as she walked away. “You used to be so happy”

Dave walked the opposite direction as he headed for the kitchen, his face remained neutral as he entered the busy kitchen. The head chef ran over and bowed deeply, “Ah Prince Dave, would you like something to eat?”

“No, have you got a large potato sack?” Dave stood still as the chef hurried to the store cupboard before returning with a sack large enough for Dave to fit in. “This will be fine,” Dave responded as he folded up the sack and left the kitchen

The human carried the sack under his arm as he walked out onto the castle gardens, a gardener was sweeping up leaves and broken twigs as Dave walked out into a clear patch. “Morning Prince Dave!” the gardener called happily

“Leave the garden,” Dave responded as he looked up at the sky, narrowing his eyes occasionally

“B-but I still have a few more things I need to do,” the gardener shivered as Dave slowly rotated his head to look at him

“I said leave, if you find that command too tasking then I can have the guards haul you out,” Dave responded calmly as he looked back up at the sky, eventually extending his arm and twitching his fingers. He waited for the gardener to leave before he allowed the burning pain from his arm to effect his expression

Dave rubbed his arm before he dropped the potato sack, “Why did Dave have to be so modest, now nopony can listen to a command without having to hesitate first”

An eagle’s screech filled the air as a gryphon fell and crashed into the ground near Dave, one of its wings was mangled. Dave stepped over and pulled the flight goggles away from the high flyer, his stared at the gasping gryphon as fear began to fill its eyes

“The rest of the gryphon army will deny you existence,” Dave grabbed the gryphon by its neck as he dragged it over to the sack. “You may prove useful, so that can be your way of repaying Dave for spying on him”

“If you aren’t Dave,” The gryphon coughed before it was shoved into the sack. “Who are you?”

“Me?” Dave looked at his bandaged arm before closing the sack and punching the gryphon inside unconscious. “I’m the Id”

Chapter 71

Odio whistled as he floated along the corridors, smiling at any passing ponies that responded with a slight glare. “I knew I chose a few renegade options but jeez,” the fog sighed as he floated around the corner and saw Celestia walking angrily in the other direction

Odio floated over and smiled as he followed the princess. “Can I help you?” Celestia sighed as the fog’s burning face began to float closer to her face

“I was wondering if Dave could come out to play Miss Celestia,” Odio pouted childishly. “I’ll make sure we don’t get into trouble”

“I am not in the mood for jokes,” Celestia frowned as she looked at the floor. “I just had to listen to a story from the earth pony”

The fog paused before floating alongside the alicorn again. “You mean Battering Ram? Why were you talking to him?”

“I needed answers and got nothing, only a story about Strong Shield and how he used to be a nice and caring recruit,” Celestia shook her head as she allowed her tired eyes to shut for a moment. “Am I really a hypocrite?”

Odio flinched as Celestia stopped to look at the fog, her eyes were forming tears as she tried to stop herself from crying. “Oh I uh… you’re not a bad pony,” Odio smirked uneasily before groaning. “Alright I know you and I aren’t best friends, friends, or even two entities that can get along, but I think you are trying too hard”

“I just want to protect Dave, he has done so much and continues to do so,” the white alicorn clenched her eyes as she held back the urge to begin wailing and falling to the floor. “I am so afraid that Dave will go for good if he keeps doing this”

“I know Dave better than anypony, I’m not bragging, it’s just fact,” Odio sighed as he lightly tapped Celestia with a tendril of fog. “He will always come back, Tartarus was just a deep hole that Dave didn’t inspect before jumping into”

“But if I stop and tell Dave everything then he might hate me for doing what I did to Strong Shield,” Celestia took a deep breath before regaining her composure. “I have to see this through and make sure that nopony things of using Dave again”

Odio sighed, “Alright, but make sure you know what Dave wants, he is very… vulnerable I suppose”

“Ok,” Celestia smiled. “Thank you Odio, if you ever need anything, let me know”

“Can I have thirty bits?” Odio smiled at the confused alicorn

“I suppose,” Celestia looked at the fog. “May I ask why?”

“Steam sale, don’t judge me”

Meanwhile…

Luna yawned as she awoke, her head slowly rotated in a large circle as she stretched her neck. She rolled onto her side again and wrapped her hooves around what she thought was her pillow. After squeezing the odd object she opened her eyes to look up at Dave

“Oh I am still dreaming,” Luna sighed before smiling. “Ah well, this is a good dream”

Dave looked down at Luna before looking back at the blueprints he held in his hands. He readjusted his sitting position as Luna continued to snuggle against his stomach. “How did Dave react before?” He whispered before using one of his hands to gently stroke Luna’s mane

“This dream keeps getting better,” Luna moved her head against Dave’s hand as she looked up at his face. “If only I could wake up to find you in my bed for real”

Dave slowly moved his gaze from his blueprints to look down at the princess of the night. He blinked a few times before dropping his documents off the side of the bed. Luna’s smile was replaced by a wide-eyed gaze

“Is this one of those wet dreams?” Luna blushed at the thought. “I accidentally stumbled into other ponies’ dreams like this but I never thought that I would get one”

As Luna began to sit up and move her lips towards Dave’s, a hand blocked her path. She opened her eyes to see Dave with a raised eyebrow. “You aren’t dreaming”

The alicorn’s seductive gaze was replaced with one of pure horror, her blush turned from rosy to a deep red that filled her face. “Please tell me this is a nightmare”

“Afraid not,” Dave leaned over the edge of the bed and picked his blueprints back up. “You still have ten minutes before you have to raise the moon so don’t worry”

Luna sat up in her bed and shuffled closer to Dave, her wing brushing against his arm. “Why are you in my bed?”

“I thought it would be… nice to surprise you,” Dave continued to stare at the paper in his hands as the princess shuffled a bit closer. “If it wasn’t a nice surprise then I apologize and I will leave immediately”

“No,” Luna said almost instantly before closing the final distance between her and Dave, smiling as she felt his skin against her fur. “I never knew exactly how much I wanted to wake up beside you until today”

Dave glanced at the nervous princess before looking away again, “So long as you are enjoying yourself”

“What are you reading?” Luna looked over at the blueprints. “Is that a plan for a set of royal guard armour?”

“Yes, I figured that I need a hobby,” Dave looked over the various armour pieces and designs. “I will make it myself and I still have to make edits so it with fit me”

The alicorn nervously looked at the serious face of the human next to her, “Why do you need this?”

Dave paused as he quickly thought of a reasonable lie to use, “I just thought it would be cool, not to mention it may come in handy for any uh… events”

Luna remained silent as she rested her head on Dave’s shoulder, her hoof slowly moved to rest itself in Dave’s palm. “Are you sure you don’t remember your… accident?”

“I assume I fell off something again,” Dave lied as he put the blueprints down and rubbed his eyes. His hand fell back to his side as he stared at the wall opposite, the slow sunset casted an orange glow into the room

“Dave…” Luna waited for Dave to look over at her. “Can you answer something? Truthfully?”

Dave paused as he slowly smiled, his mind ready to answer any questions, “Sure, ask away”

Luna slowly looked down at her hoof that rested in Dave’s hand, “What would have happened if we had never broken up at the start? You know… before I messed everything up”

“I always blamed myself for that,” Dave sighed before shaking his head. “Well I assume that you would have had a child and I might have never gotten into a relationship with Celestia”

“Ok,” The dark alicorn whispered as she rested her head back down again

Dave looked at the wall again before he looked down at his hands, “Dav… I mean I always wondered something”

Luna opened her eyes to look up at the human, “What’s that?”

“If I was with you first and Celestia wanted to join this small harem,” Dave looked over to Luna. “Would you have let her?”

The princess shuddered as she shuffled closer to Dave, “Honestly? No.” Luna stared down at her bed as she felt Dave’s hand reach over and stroke her face. “But I am so happy that she let me be with you, finally we can all move on”

“Soon,” Dave sighed as he pulled Luna in for a hug. “I will make sure that everything will be sorted, for you, Celestia, Nox, everypony… even Dave,” he whispered as he gently kissed Luna’s head

Meanwhile…

“Sunflower, would you please wait a minute?” A yellow stallion panted as he chased a white mare up a hill. He smiled as the mare used a hoof to brush her pink mane aside and smile back at him, his heart fluttered as she sat at the top of the hill

Sunflower glanced at her sunflower cutie mark, “Somepony mistook me for a young Celestia again today.” The mare looked around at the surrounding trees as she took a deep breath of fresh air

“Well if Celestia was ever as beautiful as you are then she is lucky,” The yellow stallion finally reached the mare and sat beside her. “I managed to get a reservation at that restaurant you like so much”

“Aww Splint, you shouldn’t have,” Sunflower blushed as the stallion shuffled closer. “You are normally so busy at the hospital”

Splint rubbed his mane as he nervously chuckled, “Well I had been working harder lately because I was saving up for time off, and I was wondering if you wanted to take a few days away somewhere”

Sunflower smiled as she nuzzled the stallion, “Oh you know what makes me smile don’t you?”

“Ssssselesssstiaaaaaaa”

“Did you hear that?” Splint raised his head to look at the surrounding trees before scanning the ground. “There are no snakes here right?”

Sunflower rolled her eyes, “There are no snakes!” The white unicorn groaned as she moved away from the scared stallion. “I wish you would stop watching those silly horror movies”

Splint was about to turn and protest at the mare but the sight of two yellow eyes made him freeze. “S-sunflower, we have to go,” the stallion gulped as a long and streamlined wolf stepped out of the shadows, its body was covered in dragon scales and two small changeling horns poked from its head

“I thought I would be nice for once and actually invite you back to my place but you have totally ruined the atmosphere,” Sunflower shook her head

Harvest’s long, drooling tongue began flicking through the air as the creature crouched down and leapt at the terrified stallion before he could react. Sunflower’s eyes shot open as the rush of wind, screaming and a high pitched roar filled the air

Harvest pinned the stallion down and its tongue began to rub against the ponies face. The monster roared again before walking away from the stallion and slowly advanced towards the mare. Sunflower slowly retreated from the monster, stopping as she was backed against a tree

The two small horns on Harvest’s head suddenly glowed green and the entire monster burst into flames. The four legged creature rose up to stand on two large, fleshy talons, the arms were thin paws from a manticore, the body changed to a simple leathery texture

Sunflower shivered as the rest of the fire disappeared and Harvest’s shorter, broader head slowly stopped next to hers. Her breaths were weak and rapid as the monster began to sniff, Harvest’s tongue licked her cheek as she it tried to determine her identity

“Sssselesssstiaaaa?’” Harvest hissed as it used its strong paws to hold the pony’s head still and slowly began sniffing some more

Splint sat up in time to see Harvest push Sunflower aside and roar to the sky in anger. The monster looked around in a blind rage before it brought one of its large claws up and slashed through a tree

Harvest roared again as it clutched its head, ignoring the two escaping ponies as it felt a surge of pain explode from its skull. Harvest finally stopped roaring as the creature began looking at the rising moon that replaced the sun on the horizon, “Lluuuunnnnaaaa…” Harvest hissed again before running off into the cover of darkness

Chapter 72

Strong Shield blinked slowly as he stared at the dirty wall opposite him. Battering Ram was sleeping whilst Flux continued to stare at her beloved that was only a few feet away. The three prisoners were all silent as the dungeon door opened and Matrix stepped in with three food trays

Flux glanced at the striped guard before looking back to Strong Shield, “Please eat something today, you shouldn’t punish yourself like this”

Matrix nervously looked at the veterans and gave the trays of basic and tasteless food to each of the prisoners. He stopped at Strong Shield’s cell and glanced at the dungeon door before looking back at the vacant unicorn. “I don’t know why you are in here but… the guards are still behind you, if you need us”

“Tell them to give up on me,” Strong Shield lowered his head. “I made a mistake and the princess deserves to punish me”

“We all make mistakes,” Matrix sighed. “Whatever you did, you have done more good than any guard I have ever known”

Strong Shield glared down at himself as he slowly turned his head to look at the private, “But I sent my son into hell, why shouldn’t I be punished?”

“Because you make it up to Dave someday,” Matrix glanced at Flux before shaking his head. “You aren’t helping Dave by being locked up in here”

The Pegasus placed the food tray through the little gap at the bottom of the cell door before walking away and locking the dungeon door behind him. Flux watched the guard go before slowly shaking her head, “Why can’t you accept that you made a mistake?”

“Because the last time I made a mistake…” Strong Shield looked over at Flux, “I lost you, and I never wanted to fail since”

Battering Ram lifted his hoof from his eyes to glance at the unicorn, “Didn’t you miss me?”

“Yes, of course,” Strong Shield chuckled, his smile lingering before his emotionless stare made him look at his meal. “Unless I am mistaken, shouldn’t there be a meeting between Dave, the changelings and the gryphons today?”

Meanwhile…

Celestia walked beside Dave, her nervous glances to her human never stopped until they reached the dining room door. “Are you sure you want to do this alone? I will come in if you are feeling unsure”

“Celestia please,” Dave gave Celestia a reassuring smile. “I will make sure that everypony will come to an agreement, you can attend to your duties”

The white alicorn stared at Dave before slowly nodding, “Alright, I will see you at dinner?”

“Yes,” Dave nodded before moving towards the door. “I will make sure this will be over quickly”

The human stepped into the dining room and closed the door behind him, he turned in time to see a maid leaving the room. “Excuse me,” Dave called the maid over. “There is a potato sack in the store cupboard near the royal gardens, can you make sure somepony sends that straight over?”

“Yes your majesty,” The maid bowed before leaving the room. Dave waited for the door to close again before looking up to see Queen Chrysalis and General Talon both glaring at each other

Chrysalis smiled over at Dave whilst Talon sneered at the new arrival. “I hope you have seen sense and are going to assist with the extermination of the changelings”

“No,” Dave sighed as he sat at the head of the table. “You are going to ease on the border control, reduce the amount of patrols and will allow some changelings cross”

“WHAT!” Talon stood and dug his claws into the marble table. “This is unacceptable! You are allying yourself with these bugs?”

Dave shook his head, “There is to be a restriction on how many changelings can cross, if they exceed this limit then you may kill any that try to go near the border”

Chrysalis frowned at Dave, “This won’t do, they have to trust us and leave the borders completely”

“Trust you?” Talon snorted. “We gryphons don’t trust anypony, and nopony trusts the changelings!”

“Silence!” Dave yelled. “My proposal is beneficial to both of you, if neither of you like it then I will be forced to take drastic actions”

Talon stood and growled at Dave, “You shouldn’t throw your authority around so much, you haven’t been in Equestria for more than a few months and you already believe that you know more than us!”

Dave glanced at the door as it creaked open and a pair of guards dragged in a bulging potato sack, the guards saluted Dave before leaving the room. “So you won’t consider my proposal?”

“No,” The gryphon spat as he looked away

“Chrysalis? Where do you stand?” Dave stood and picked up the sack before placing it on the table

The changeling queen hissed at Talon before looking back to Dave. “I trust your judgement and so I will agree, so long as we negotiate a fair amount of border use”

“So Talon, are you the immoveable object in this scenario?” Dave sighed as he rested one hand on the potato sack

“Yes,” Talon stared at Dave’s blank face. “I am not moving from my decision”

Dave sighed as he slowly walked along the table, pushing the sack along as he spoke. “Well I am an unstoppable force, and that means I have the advantage,” Dave stared at the gryphon as he neared him. “Immoveable objects can’t move, unstoppable forces can move around, find weak points like…” Dave opened the sack and a beaten and bruised gryphon fell out, gasping for breath as its’ pleading eyes looked at the startled General Talon. “The foundations”

“What is this?” Talon stood to snarl into Dave’s face. “I demand answers!”

“This is one of your Eagle Eyes, trained gryphons that spy for you,” Dave grabbed the gryphon’s head and dragged him closer to the general. “I used my resistance to this world and I caused him to crash to the ground, then I made him talk, tell me things about you”

Talon growled as he raised a claw to Dave’s face, “I will tear the skin from your face, APE!”

“And I will get your niece, tear her head off with my bare hands, hallow out her skull and use her neck as a straw as I suck out her blood,” Dave snarled as he willingly pressed his face against the sharp claws.

Talon flinched as Dave slowly dragged his face along the sharp claws, “What makes you think I have a niece?”

“Your soldier told me about how your sister died in childbirth and you took care of the child in your spare time,” Dave tilted his head as the general flinched. “You are just going to give me a scratch and I can heal”

“You leave my niece out of this!” Talon snarled

“Then do as I say,” Dave kept his face straight as the gryphon looked between the human and the gryphon that was laying on the table

The gryphon general shuddered before he slowly sat down, staring at the floor as his claws visibly shook in fear before pressing them against the table. “We… agree to your terms”

“Good,” Dave released the injured gryphon he was holding before moving back to his chair. “I also want the leather that gryphons use for their armours, the leather from your bodyguards’ armour should suffice”

“Fine,” Talon mumbled as he glared down at himself, not even looking up at Chrysalis as she stood and walked over to Dave’s seat

The changeling queen was smiling the entire time she took a step closer to Dave, her thoughts buzzing after the scene she had witnessed. She couldn’t contain herself, she threw herself at Dave and her tongue slipped easily into him

Dave slowly moved his eyes to look at the changeling as her expression switched from happy to as fearful as Talon’s was when he saw his battered soldier. The queen slowly pulled her head away from Dave as she pulled her tongue back into her mouth

“Y-you’re empty,” Chrysalis shuddered. “You are normally overflowing with love but now… there is nothing”

“Emotions are easy to fake when you remember how to act,” Dave stared at the changeling as he stood. “Negotiations have finished, let yourselves out… oh and Talon?”

The gryphon looked over before nodding in acknowledgement, “I will have the leather delivered by the end of the day”

Dave tipped his head, “Good, now I don’t want either of you two causing any more problems for me”

Chrysalis shuddered as she looked over at Talon, the normally ferocious gryphon was reduced to a quiet creature that sulked in his chair. The changeling tapped her tongue with her hoof before looking at Dave. “Who are you?”

“I’m Dave,” The human responded. “Now please leave, you should be happy that I am not going to punish your race for wasting my time”

“Does Celestia know?” The changeling queen shuddered. “She wouldn’t allow this behaviour”

Dave frowned, “No, and she wouldn’t believe you after all the things you have done in the past,” Dave narrowed his eyes as Chrysalis glanced at the door. “Are you going to try? Why would you bother?”

“Well... Dave has done enough for me to earn my respect,” Chrysalis stood her ground. “And as queen of the changeling hive, I repay my debts”

“Go ahead,” Dave stood aside. “Go make a fool of yourself, you have a ten second head start,” Dave began slowly tapping his feet as the changeling bolted for the door

The human sent a small glare at Talon before leaving the room and began walking after Chrysalis, the changeling queen used her wings to fly down the corridors and upstairs as she headed for Celestia’s quarters

The two guards that were standing guard at Celestia’s door instantly got into position in front of the door as the changeling queen appeared at the top of the stairs. “You have to get Celestia quickly,” Chrysalis looked back at the stairs, “She is being deceived by an impersonator that is pretending to be Dave”

The guards glanced at each other before shaking their heads, “No, Dave has been through a lot and Princess Celestia doesn’t need your kind messing around anymore!”

“But I am trying to help you insolent whelp!” Chrysalis hissed. “I am doing this to help Dave because I owe him and he has done more to help my kind than anypony else!”

The golden doors opened and Celestia stepped out, her confused expression switched to a snarl as she saw Chrysalis. “I should have known you would cause problems if I allowed you near Canterlot and even within a mile of Dave”

“The Dave here is an imposter!” Chrysalis froze as she heard footsteps coming up the stairs behind her. “You have to believe me, this Dave is deceiving you and you are falling for it, just like when I managed to infiltrate Canterlot”

Dave reached the top of the stairs and had a large frown on his face, “I doubt a changeling could look as handsome as me, even with magic”

Celestia glared at Chrysalis as Dave walked over and stood beside the alicorn. “Dave, please go into my room,” Celestia gave Dave a worried glance. “I don’t want the stress to affect your recovery,” The princess sighed as Dave slowly nodded

“I managed to negotiate a decent truce that will ensure a stable peace,” Dave sighed as he rubbed his eyes and entered the bedroom. “I just think that Chrysalis enjoys messing something up wherever she goes… Remember the time she pretended to be you in order to try and get with me?”

Chrysalis froze stiff as the guards exchanged shocked glances before glaring with murderous eyes, furious that they had been tricked by a changeling. Celestia nodded to Dave before slowly turning to stare at Chrysalis

“Leave now,” Celestia said in a quiet and threatening tone. “If I see you near Dave or I even suspect you of even thinking about him then I will come for you, not your swarm… just… you!”

“B-but,” Chrysalis stammered but was silenced as Celestia took a step forwards and the two angry guards lowered their horns. The changeling queen looked past the ponies and saw Dave standing in the bedroom, his hands behind his back as he gave her an emotionless the stare. His stare that showed his true status and condition

Chapter 73

Dave looked out of the balcony window and saw General Talon flying away with a group of gryphons, the injured one that Dave left in a potato sack appeared to be carried by two of the larger gryphons

Celestia closed the door as she heard Chrysalis walk away, muttering under her breath. The white alicorn sighed as she looked over at the distant human. “Are you ok?” Celestia asked softly, “You shouldn’t push yourself”

“I can manage,” Dave responded as he turned and was faced with Celestia only standing an inch away. “How was your day?”

“Boring but now you are here so…” Celestia placed a hoof on Dave’s chest as she smiled. “How about we use the free time we have and enjoy ourselves?”

Dave glanced at the bed before his mind began to buzz, thoughts and memories whizzed through his skull as he slowly let out a slow breath. “Do you want to? Right now?”

The white alicorn slowly stood on her hind legs and draped her hooves over Dave’s shoulders, her horn glowed as she started undoing the buttons on Dave’s shirt. “You would have already picked me up by now, but I suppose you must feel woozy from the aftereffects of your accident, so we can take it slow”

“Yeah… woozy,” Dave looked down at Celestia as his memories of Dave’s past thoughts and opinions filled his head. “Listen, can we delay this? I don’t feel completely comfortable and I would appreciate it if you could stop”

Celestia only slowed her unbuttoning as she looked up at Dave, “I just want to reward you for the good job you did with the negotiations”

“I don’t need a reward, I chose to do it,” Dave bit his lips together as Celestia began to softly touch his neck with her face. “Can we stop please?”

“I thought that you liked this?” Celestia slowly moved her lips to Dave’s ear as she hummed softly. “I’ll make sure you remember why”

“I said STOP!” Dave pushed Celestia away as he began fastening his shirt buttons again. The alicorn stumbled but recovered in time to see Dave start heading for the door a neutral expression still stuck to his face

Dave pulled open the door and stormed past the guards, he heard Celestia follow him partway before the princess was joined by the guards. The human didn’t look back as he headed for the library, his eyes remained fixed on the path ahead until he reached the door

As he pushed the doors open and made his way over to a shelf near the back of the library, Dave heard Celestia say something to the guards as she entered the library as well. “What’s the matter?” Celestia asked softly as she waited in the centre of the library

“Nothing,” Dave responded as he picked up a large tome and flicked through the pages, tearing a few sheets out and stuffing them into his pocket

Celestia slowly walked towards Dave, stopping as he placed the book back on the shelf and turned to face her. “Dave… I want you to know that I am sorry for everything… and I mean everything”

Dave could only watch as Celestia slowly dipped her head, “you shouldn’t apologize”

“But I have to,” Celestia shuddered as she turned away from Dave. “Recently I realized how demanding and controlling I have been towards you”

“You did it because it was necessary, I can’t blame you for that,” Dave sighed as he looked down at his hands. “You knew that Da… I would always do anything for you, even though you are countless years old and I am an infant in comparison, you are a goddess and I am only human…” Dave walked over to Celestia and placed his fingers under Celestia’s white chin and gently lifted her head to look at him. “You have to trust me when I say that I will make everything better… it will hurt to start with but it will be for the best”

Celestia’s eyes began to water as Dave slowly raised his hand and tore the bandage off his arm, allowing the large burn to be on show. “Why are you acting so strange? Your… accident couldn’t have done all this to you”

“I know about Tartarus, I never forgot,” Dave sighed as Celestia shuddered. “Nopony is to blame for what happened, I chose to go in and of course I suffered… but I don’t regret it for a second”

Celestia felt sick to her stomach as she listened to Dave talk. “I should have protected you, I should have made sure you never went into that prison and from the moment I met you I have done nothing but take and allowed you to give”

Dave looked up at Celestia’s horn, slowly using his hand to tap the golden wedding ring that rested at the bottom. “You give me joy, happiness, and not to mention a purpose, a purpose to try my hardest and not to just drift through life”

“Dave…” Celestia raised a hoof and placed it on the human’s face. “Because of me… because I allowed you to think that going into Tartarus could protect me… I ruined your life”

“No… you allowed me to see how I can get the life I want,” Dave leaned forward and kissed Celestia’s head. “You have to promise me that what I will do over the next few days… you can’t interfere, you have to let me do what I have to do, no matter how bad it seems or how terrible it makes you feel”

The princess of the sun slowly nodded, “I promise… I love you Dave Shield”

Dave rested his eyes as he held his face against Celestia’s flowing mane, “I love you too Princess Celestia”

The alicorn remained where she was as Dave slowly walked away, his emotionless expression struggled to return before he opened the library door and walked past the guards as he set his next destination as the barracks

Any passing maids or guards bowed or saluted as Dave passed, the human merely bowed his head before reaching the barracks and pushing open the doors. The guards looked over before they all rushed to their hooves and saluted

Dave looked around before nodding to the guards and allowing them to continue with their various tasks. Dave made his way straight to Shining Armour’s office and let himself in and gently closed the door behind him

“Knocking is considered polite,” Shining Armour sighed before looking up and going wide-eyed. “Oh, sorry Dave, thought you were a private or something”

“I need a pickaxe and some long rope,” Dave stared at the unicorn as the captain of the guard chuckled

“Not even a please?” Shining Armour rested back in his chair. “Are you feeling alright? You seem a little… vacant”

Dave frowned slightly, “I am here for items, not idle chit chat”

“Oh,” Shining Armour returned the frown before getting to his hooves and walking out into the barracks. “I need a pickaxe and some rope we use to tie down runaway airships,” He called out to the barracks and a few guards began to leave in search for the objects

Matrix was sat at a table by himself, he looked over at Dave before standing and walking over to the human. “Excuse me Prince Dave but aren’t you aware that your father is being held prisoner?”

Shining Armour flinched before giving the guard a glare, “I think Dave has more important things to do right now”

“Let him go,” Dave sighed. “I assume Flux and Battering Ram are locked up too so let them out as well”

“Princess Celestia ordered that nopony should talk to them and they are only to be released when she says so,” Shining armour sighed. “We can go find her and let her know that you want her to release them”

Dave glanced at Shining Armour before looking at Matrix, “You can go let them out, Celestia won’t mind because they are going to be staying in guest rooms”

A few guards returned with Dave’s rope and pickaxe, as well as a large bag, “This was a delivery from the gryphon general, he said it was to be delivered directly to you”

“Thank you, take the leather to Odio’s room and inform him that I will be along later,” Dave took the long, heavy rope and pickaxe. “Also, can you find that black dragon, if she is still around, and inform her that I request her presence at the western wall”

The guards saluted before leaving to attend to their new orders, Matrix took the key from the jailor and went into the dungeon to release the three prisoners. Shining Armour looked around before narrowing his eyes at Dave

“I have never seen you give direct orders like that before,” The captain of the guard hummed. “Are you sure that you feel ok? Normally you have tried to make a joke by now”

Dave looked at the white stallion before looking at the pickaxe in his hand. “I feel fine, and I will have a joke for you in a few days”

“It had better be funny,” Shining Armour continued to give Dave a curious stare as the human left the barracks and eventually disappeared out of sight. Dave remained silent as he walked through the castle, down the winding stairs before reaching the castle courtyard

The sun instantly shone into Dave’s eyes as he made his way across the smooth courtyard and towards the large gates that separated the entire city from the white castle. Dave instead changed direction at the last moment and went into the guard tower

Dave hauled his rope and pickaxe up the steep steps that took him all the way up to the wall that protected the city. The human walked past a few patrolling guards and made his way through a few watch towers as he finally stopped at a section of wall that stood at the very edge of a cliff

“Well hello Mr Royal,” Zisha teased as she flew down to Dave and draped a black claw around his shoulders. “Thanks for getting me away from that old fart Adamas”

“Adamas does what is necessary for his race,” Dave pulled the sheets of paper out of his pocket and passed them to the black dragon. “These artefacts, get them for me please”

Zisha looked at the sheets before growling at Dave, “I am not some delivery service!”

“Do this and I will ensure that you are rewarded,” Dave tied the rope to the top of the wall and threw the rest of it over the edge. “I am… sorry, but if you refuse then I will have to take action to ensure your cooperation”

The black dragon shoved the pages back into Dave’s hand and turned away. “There is nothing you can do to make me do anything!”

“Then I apologize, I hope for your sake that this is only temporary,” Dave brought his foot to the back of Zisha’s leg and caused her to fall to her knees. He dropped his pickaxe as he grabbed her horn with one hand and grabbed her throat with the other

The dragon lashed out with one of her long claws but it missed as Dave pulled his head back and threw the dragon to the floor. Zisha hurried as she tried to get up, her wings flapped but were pinned as Dave placed a foot on her chest

“You asked for it,” Zisha snarled as she lashed out with a claw and stabbed into Dave’s stomach. The human didn’t flinch, but instead he grabbed the claw and kneeled down, the claw slipping in further as Dave rested his hand on Zisha’s head

Dave’s eye twitched as the mark across his arm glowed, the mark forced itself to stay on Dave’s arm as he forced his resistance into Zisha’s mind. “Free will is only another obstacle in someone’s mind” Dave sighed as the black dragon’s purple eyes slowly turned white, her mouth agape as her breathing became erratic

Zisha finally stopped shaking and pulled her claw out of Dave’s stomach, slowly standing up as Dave stepped back and held out the sheets of paper detailing what the artefacts were and where they were

“Now, get these and bring them back,” Dave picked up his pickaxe as Zisha took the sheets. “Bring them back within two days, don’t rest until this is complete”

Zisha nodded before taking to the sky, Dave watched her fly before grabbing the rope and climbing over the edge of the wall and slowly abseiling down the wall and cliff, moving towards the opening to a cave system that ran beneath Canterlot

Chapter 74

Dave wiped the sweat from his head as he threw the final large chunk of crystal onto the pile that he had carried up the rope and dumped at the top of the wall. The human pulled himself up the rest of the rope and sat down on the marble floor

The human looked at the large slabs of crystal that he had mined. “More than enough,” Dave sighed as he reached over and began pulling up the rope, wrapping it around into a small circle and dropping it beside him

A passing guard saluted Dave and looked at the pile of crystals, “Do you need any help sir?”

“Please have these delivered to Odio’s room,” Dave stretched his neck. “Inform him that I should be there in about half an hour”

“Yes sir!” The guard used his magic to levitate the crystals and began taking them towards the castle. Dave pushed himself to his feet and brushed the dirt from his hands. He leaned on the wall as he looked at the sunset, his mining had easily taken most of the day but he had easily got more than enough for his armour

The human groaned as a sudden jolt of pain raced through his head, his hands remained on the stone wall as he endured the pain that normally would have brought him to his knees. He looked out over the landscape and he bit his bottom lip in thought

“Just a couple of days Dave,” He sighed. “Then everything will be ready, and you will never have to worry ever again”

Meanwhile…

Celestia looked at the empty spot where Dave should be seated, her meal was untouched as she waited for her fiancé to arrive. Her waiting was futile as the dining room door never opened, slowly she looked down at her meal before pushing the plate away, her appetite had long since disappeared

A small knock at the door met Celestia’s ears, her slightly raised hopes were brought crashing down as curiosity and shock filled her. Strong Shield poked his head into the room and looked at the princess, a strange determination in his eye

“How did you get out of your cell?” Celestia asked as Strong Shield completely entered the room and sat down

“Dave ordered our release, Flux and Battering Ram are just going to their rooms,” Strong Shield looked down at his hooves before letting out a small sigh. “I know you blame me for everything, I do too and Dave has every right to hate me as well… but I knew that I couldn’t go into Tartarus and when he offered… I just had to let him do it”

“Strong Shield,” Celestia’s ears drooped as she looked at the unicorn. “I am tired of all this, all the arguments, worrying if Dave might show up or not day after day”

The black unicorn nodded in agreement, his eye rested for a moment before opening to look at the princess of the sun, “I will spend eternity trying to make amends but all I can do now is ask you for a favour”

Celestia gasped slightly as Strong Shield stood up and walked over to the princess, dropping into a deep bow as he shuddered slightly. “Please allow me to give you away at your wedding to my son, I want to feel like a real father before my time in Equestria is over”

“Shield…” Celestia smiled as she slid off her chair and wrapped a wing over Strong Shield. “I would be honoured if you can do that for me and Dave,” The alicorn smiled as Strong Shield nodded

“Where is Dave anyway?” Strong Shield wiped a small tear that had formed in the corner of his eye before looking around the dining room. “I haven’t seen him since… that prison,” Strong Shield felt disgusted even referencing that cursed place

The white princess frowned before shaking her head, “He remembers Tartarus, and he was obviously putting on a show to make sure we didn’t worry about him”

“I will see if I can talk to him… I have a few things I need to get off my chest as well,” Strong Shield hummed before shaking his head and both ponies returned to their seats. “Anyway, my friends and I are at your service should you need anything”

Celestia smiled slightly as she looked at the serious unicorn, “You never had friends for as long as I have known you”

“I haven’t had a lot of things for a while,” Strong Shield rubbed his scared eye before looking up at the ceiling, a long breath rolled out of his mouth as he rested his head against the chair he was sat in. “There is a cruise in a few weeks, starting in Canterlot and it makes its way along the coast… I am going to take Flux and I am going to marry her, if that is ok with you”

The princess nodded, “Of course, but wouldn’t you prefer it if you were here surrounded by your family?”

“I don’t feel much like a family stallion right now,” Strong Shield sighed. “It would be for the best if I took a backseat role in everything, stop trying to control and fix things my way”

Celestia watched Strong Shield almost struggle to open his eye, dark bags lined it and he looked almost starved. The princess used her magic to move her assorted meal over to the unicorn and stared at him until he started eating

“Dave said that he was going to sort things on his own,” Celestia sighed. “I don’t know what to do, should we trust him when he is in this… condition”

“Dave has always been doing what we say when we try to make things better for him,” Strong Shield looked at the single sprout that sat in the middle of his plate of vegetables. “Maybe we should let him fix it so he is happy with his own choices rather than us assuming”

Celestia reluctantly agreed with the unicorn, “Ok… whatever choice he makes, we must respect it”

Meanwhile…

Odio was humming happily until a knocking at his door caused him to flash red and fly over to the door. “What!” He yelled as he saw a guard glaring at him

“Special delivery from Prince Dave,” The guard sneered before levitating the large clumps of crystal and dumping in Odio’s room. “Oh and Prince Dave mentioned that he would be along soon”

Odio glared as the guard slowly left, the fog slammed the door before slowly floating over to the middle of the room and two long tendrils picked up a video game controller, another tendril picked up a headset and pulled it into his dense fog. His glowing red eyes moved over to a large television that was connected to a game console

“Yeah sorry guys, just the postman being a dick,” Odio sighed as he began pushing buttons and moving the thumb sticks around. “Alright, who is left on my team?”

Odio groaned as he saw that his entire team was dead and he was the last one alive against two enemies. “I swear, people need to learn how to play search and destroy”

Odio carefully moved his character around corners, making sure he didn’t stay out in the open too long as he crept towards the objective. He paused as he saw an enemy make a dash for one of the larger buildings, Odio didn’t hesitate as he took aim and shot the other player in the head

“Alright that takes my kill to death ratio up to five thousand… still can’t believe that I got killed once,” Odio sighed before resuming with his slow quest towards the objective. He crawled the final few meters before pulling out his bomb and arming the objective

The moment the game announcer proclaimed that the bomb was active and the timer had appeared in the top corner, Odio ran for the building his latest kill was going for, he hurried up the stairs before pulling out a sniper rifle and keeping watch over the bomb he had armed

“I remember this being harder,” Odio hummed as he saw the final enemy run wildly from the other end of the street and dive to disarm the bomb. “Alright I am going to play this safe,” Odio sighed as he readied his controller

Odio made his character throw a knife towards the target before making his character dive out the window and begin spinning in mid-air. The knife bounced just behind the enemy, the target oblivious to the spinning sniper that fired a single bullet that ricochet off the floor, then ricochet off the knife before passing through the back of his head

The announcer confirmed Odio’s team as the winner and the game ended and took everyone into the same chat channel as the final kill was replayed in slow motion. Odio yawned as his team began chanting applause to him, the enemy team instantly quitting or yelling angrily

“You fucking hacker,” The final kill on the enemy team yelled. “You used a hack or some shit like that you noob!”

Odio sighed, “Oh great another twelve year old that thinks he owns everything”

“You are such a dick!” The kid yelled down the microphone as Odio casually opened his window and fired a blast into the sky. “Fight me one on one and I will wreck you!”

Odio began fiddling with his posters that covered his walls as he slowly counted down. “Three…”

“You noob hacker!”

“Two…”

“I fucked your mum!”

“One…”

“Do you even lift?”

Odio smirked as the sound of walls smashing and screaming flooded through his earpiece. The noise from the sore loser ended and was replaced by a dull sobbing

“Anypony else want to mess with me?” Odio sighed as he watched the lobby empty and leave him alone. “I’ll take that as a no…”

Odio didn’t notice his bedroom door open and Luna step in, the princess curious to the noises that came from Odio’s room. “What is going on?” The alicorn asked as Odio quickly turned and floated over

“Oh I was just testing out a gift I managed to get for Dave for his wedding day!” Odio smiled innocently. “What Celestia doesn’t know is that video games will slowly bring Dave back to me as I lure him with RPG’s and expensive DLC”

Luna blinked before shaking her head, “I have no idea what you are doing but you might want to be cautious around Dave… he isn’t alright at the moment”

“When has he ever been?” Odio snorted. “I managed to find a way to get the internet to come through that portal I made up in space and do I get attention or recognition? Noooo,” Odio groaned sarcastically

Luna looked at the large box that rested on the desk and the various wires that connected it to a white box and a pile of cases containing disks. “Did Dave enjoy this?”

“Very much so,” Odio chuckled. “He is kinda responsible for me getting addicted to them… actually it is entirely his fault!”

The princess of the night picked up some of the game cases and began reading some of the cases. “Call of Duty? Skyrim? Red Dead Redemption? What are all these?”

“Books!” Odio wrapped a tendril around her as he smiled into the distance. “Except they don’t give you annoying fucking cuts!”

“Can you have multiple ponies playing these at a time?” Luna picked up one game and looked at it. “This looks… fun I suppose”

“Spec ops: The line?” Odio chuckled. “Yeah if your idea of fun is burning children to death”

Luna gasped as she threw the game down, almost horrified at its contents. “Why would anypony want to play that? Or even enjoy that?”

“That is the point behind video games,” Odio cleared his thought for dramatic effect. “Video games allow us to do things we can’t do in real life, the whole aspect is to stretch our minds out of reality and to explore our being without having to leave the safety of our home”

“So it is like reading a book?” Luna tilted her head

“No,” Odio sighed. “Can books let you build a house and once the people have eaten dinner you delete the toilets and let them slowly die of peeing themselves?”

The princess of the night looked at Odio with disgust, “Are all… video games this violent and cruel?”

“No, just the people who play them”

Chapter 75

“No Luna, you can’t talk it out with the bad guys,” Odio sighed. “This isn’t Equestria where everyone is just misunderstood”

The princess of the night hummed as she looked at her controller she had levitating before her. “But I am sure that Sephiroth is just angry that somepony betrayed him in the past, he can’t be that bad”

“Oh if you only knew what he did later,” Odio sighed. “Go talk to the depressed guy”

“Which one?” Luna asked but was responded with chuckling. “What is so funny?”

Odio stopped laughing, “Oh you weren’t making a joke? Not poking fun at the fact that half the characters seem to be dead on the inside?”

“N-no,” Luna looked back at her game, she slowly hummed before looking back at the tower of games that Odio amassed. “I would prefer to play something with a love story”

Odio made a gagging noise, “As much as I dislike your choice, you will spend ages trying to look for a story with depth but for most of the good bits you need to buy DLC”

“DLC?” Luna looked at Odio. “What’s that?”

“Downloadable content,” Odio groaned. “I forgot that ponies are lacking in technology that actually does something cool”

Both the gamers stopped to turn around as Dave stepped into the room, he was covered in dirt and his shirt was covered in cuts. Odio moved his fog to hide the games and television but Luna got up and hurried to Dave

“What happened?” Luna asked as she neared the human

Dave brushed past the alicorn as he began laying out the pieces of crystal across the bed. “Odio, can you cut this piece in half?” He pushed a large chunk of crystal to the edge of the bed before turning to Luna. “I am fine, I mined this crystal and these cuts healed easily”

“Your head looks a little better,” Odio floated over to Dave, inspecting the faint marks of where Dave’s head was cut. “Do you want me to check and see if your brain has repaired itself?”

Dave paused, “The brain won’t heal if it isn’t necessary”

“Wow mystical…” Odio rolled his burning eyes as he sighed sarcastically. “In English please?”

“The missing part of my mind is coming to join back with this part,” Dave tapped his head as he began arranging the crystals again, he picked up a long piece before he set it aside from the others. “Simply put, the other piece of brain wasn’t destroyed so it is trying to reconnect with my piece”

Odio froze, “So Harvest is still alive?” The fog flashed red as Dave nodded. “I should have known this would happen, we should get Adamas to fly out and burn it properly this time”

“Nopony is doing anything to Harvest,” Dave frowned at the fog, “Now will you please cut that crystal in half”

“Why should we fight the creature that intends to harm you?” Luna asked as she glanced at Odio. “We can end this now”

Dave turned to glare at the princess, “If you touch Harvest then I will never forgive you, I have one chance to make things better and I am not going to have you or anypony else fuck it up for me!”

Odio narrowed his eyes at Dave as Luna recoiled from being yelled at, the alicorn backed away from Dave before turning away and leaving the room, her head low as she quietly left. The black fog hovered closer to Dave as it made sure Luna was out of earshot

“What is up with you? You knew I disliked the princesses but I never thought that you would have wanted to get rid of them like this to make me happy,” Odio hummed as Dave slowly picked up the long piece of crystal

“I am not doing this to make anypony happy,” Dave gripped the crystal with one hand as he held his other hand just away from the surface of the crystal. “I am doing this for survival,” Dave groaned as his mark glowed again and the crystal shattered, leaving a long crystal sword in his hands

Odio whistled, “Neat party trick! When did you learn that?”

“Dave doesn’t resist magic, he can resist anything he chooses,” Dave pointed the blade at Odio. “You once placed some of your energy into a small crystal… I need you to put everything into this armour and sword”

The black fog chuckled, “Talking in third person? Wow you must be messed up from your accident”

“I can make the armour without you, I just assumed that you would have wanted to help Dave put things right,” Dave glanced at the large pieces of crystal before glaring at Odio. “Will you cooperate or will I be forced to take what I need?”

Odio lost his smile as he extended his fog around the room, “Who the hell are you and what have you done with my best friend?”

“I am going to save your friend because I am just the instinct to survive,” Dave gripped the blade tighter. “Will you help me?”

“Fuck. You.” Odio snarled

“So be it,” Dave’s mark glowed bright again as his arm shook, Odio’s fog began crackling in deep red and flashes of white, his yell was deafened as his fog turned into a thick tar and fell to the floor. “For Dave’s sake I won’t destroy you, but I can’t let you interfere,” Dave dipped the tip of his sword into the tar and the black goo began to flow into the blade, filling it with a dark red as thin wisps of fog flowed from the hilt

Dave held the sword over the chunks of crystal and large sparks of red electricity danced between the stones, the bed caught fire and the crystals turned black as Odio slowly filled them. The human pulled the blade away as it turned to a dark crimson

“Now, I can make everything better, I need you to make this armour now,” Dave talked to the burning bed. “I just need time, you can help Dave if you just give me time, and I will allow you to enter certain parts of my mind so you know I am telling the truth”

One of the smaller chunks cracked and split as it turned into a helmet. Dave placed his arm into the fire and picked up the helmet, it was made of long ridges that only left two thin slits for eyes. The inside had a few wisps of black fog that latched to Dave’s head as he slipped his head into the helmet

“I will forgive the kidnapping as long as you tell the truth,” Odio snarled as he spoke into Dave’s ear. “Why shouldn’t I destroy you now? Your head is inside a crystal helmet which is being powered by a really REALLY pissed off fog of hatred”

“Harvest will come here and kill everypony,” Dave stabbed the blade into the floor as he picked up the other chunks of crystal, the pieces of armour being made as Dave slowly equipped himself. “The only reason it is coming straight for me is because the other part of Dave’s brain is seeking my part… without that purpose then Harvest will continue with its main purpose”

Odio hummed, “I don’t really give a shit about anypony else”

“Dave was going to make you godfather for Luna’s child,” Dave sighed as he pulled on some greaves, he held some leather near the entrance and Odio began fitting the armour. “Dave felt guilty that he was in a relationship with Celestia and Luna, he felt guilty that he loved one more than the other or that he would spend more time with one and neglect the other”

“Why are you telling me this?” Odio asked as he began making large boots and gauntlets. “I would have imagined that you would keep things private”

Dave stopped as he lifted a pair of spiked gauntlets, “I just want to make things better, every time Dave suffered, I suffered continuously”

“How have you hidden your loss of emotion?” Odio poked into Dave’s mind as he investigated. “I saw you smile amongst other things”

“I have memories, creativity,” Dave rotated his arms as he tried his gauntlets. “I remember when to laugh, so I created a laugh, it was only moving muscles and knowing how to change my breathing”

Odio made the rest of the armour before swirling around the armour, “Should I overcharge the sword with awesome fire powers?”

“No… I have a plan for that sword,” Dave looked at the blade. “This armour will be sufficient”

“You may want to get somepony to put out the fire,” Odio hummed. “Also grab a curtain, I wanna make a cape!”

Dave groaned, “Is that really necessary?”

“Hey, if we are going to go absolutely badass then we have to look cool doing it!” Odio huffed as he made some pauldrons and made them crackle with energy

As Dave finally equipped all his armour he spotted the nearby mirror and inspected himself. The armour was all smooth and streamlined, the elbows, knees, shoulders and knuckles all had sharp spikes that didn’t reduce manoeuvrability and basically gave him extra weapons. His helmet was low enough to his large chest plate so that none of his neck was vulnerable but allowed ease of turning

His pauldrons were also spiked out to the sides but they were more for appearance than practicality. He snatched one of the long curtains and Odio instantly made the fabric black, it attached to Dave’s back and only a short length actually brushed the ground

“Alright,” Odio barely restrained his excitement as he moved his power around the armour, causing the surface to go a deep crimson before turning back to the dark purple that it normally was in the caves. “What colour would you like it?”

“It doesn’t matter,” Dave pulled the sword out of the ground as he turned to the burning bed. “Colour will not affect the outcome of the battle, do what you wish”

Odio sighed as he thought, “Alright, I will make the armour… what was Dave’s favourite colour?”

“Shows how much anypony actually cares,” Dave snorted as he left the room, the burning bed soon caught the attention of a guard who ran to get some extra help. “His favourite colour was originally a simple blue… but recently it has become black”

The fog of hatred hummed as he tapped against Dave’s mind, “I’m just going to make it silver, so it looks the business,” Odio pushed his power around the armour and made the surface become silver, a few crackles of red energy bounced between the joints in the armour before fading. “Why do you sound so… grim?”

“If I told you that you were going to die in two days and that nopony would miss you, even though you sacrificed yourself so others could be happy… would you be happy?” Dave looked at the blade in his hand before he made the motion of sheathing it, a black tendril of fog attached it to his waist

“Well I did do a lot remember and nopony thanked me for it,” Odio chuckled. “Although I did kill a certain human and fell out with his marefriends”

Dave stopped to look out of a window he was passing. “Once my role is finished, I am going to fade away… I have to because it is my purpose that I have been blessed with being able to expand on for once”

“Well if you don’t want to fade away then why don’t you do something about it?” Odio swirled curiously as he continued to inspect Dave’s body

“Because I… am meant to keep Dave safe,” Dave sighed as he rubbed his armoured hands together. “I am not allowed to take his place, I am just meant to keep him going, be that little voice of concern in the back of his mind”

Odio remained silent for a moment before another question popped into his mind. “Why do you need this armour? You can kill Harvest in a second with that power you unlocked”

“This armour is only meant to buy me time,” Dave looked at his arm and where his mark should be. “That power was nothing new, it was just the same resistance Dave has used this entire time”

“Oh shit!” Odio realized. “Dave wasn’t resisting magic because he was from a world without it, he didn’t believe in magic so he didn’t accept its power”

Dave nodded, “Exactly, I think that witches and wizards might have existed at one point in human history, but due to their low numbers, less people believed in magic and therefore caused a global resistance to it”

“So it is just one form of magic repelling another,” Odio let out a small chuckle. “There is one thing I want to know about Dave, something that I should really know... what is his last name?”

Dave opened his mouth to respond but noticed something as he looked out the window that overlooked the castle gardens. Strong Shield and Flux were both sat on one of the benches, their hooves resting on top of each other as they sat in silence, enjoying each other’s company

“Everypony knows his name,” The human looked down at the floor. “His name is Dave Shield, and he will never want to change that”

Chapter 76

Strong Shield sat quietly as another cool breeze swept across his face, he looked away from the sky and moved his gaze over to the lavender mare beside him. “I’ve missed you,” The unicorn sighed as he kissed the side of Flux’s head.

“I missed you too,” Flux smiled as she rested her head against Strong Shield’s chest. “What should we do now?”

“Nothing,” Strong Shield rested his eye. “For now we should just… enjoy the moment.”

As the pair sat in silence, Battering Ram smirked as he walked past the window, deciding to leave the reunited couple alone. He continued walking until he heard slow and heavy hoovesteps, he turned the corner and saw Luna slowly making her way to a set of stairs, her head hung low.

“Princess Luna?” Battering Ram called as he slowly approached the alicorn, the princess of the moon slowly turned and frowned at the earth pony.

“How did you escape your cell?” Luna turned to glare at Battering Ram, the earth pony noticed a slight redness in Luna’s eyes.

“Uh… Dave let us out, Strong Shield went to see Princess Celestia and he is now with Flux in the gardens,” Battering Ram relaxed slightly as Luna turned away and tried to look away. “Where is Dave?”

Luna visibly flinched as she looked down at the ground, “I don’t know and frankly I don’t want to know.”

Battering Ram rubbed his chin as he slowly approached the princess. “Listen, I know you don’t really like me but if there is anything I can help with then I am more than willing to assist.”

“You and your friends have caused enough damage,” Luna turned to stare at the earth pony with cold eyes. “I think it would be best if you left.”

Battering Ram’s ears fell against his head but stood up again as he heard something approaching, he turned and saw Dave turn the corner and walk over, he was covered in silver armour and held an intimidating helmet under his arm.

“Both of you, I need information,” Dave kept a clear expression as Battering Ram gave him a suspicious gaze and Luna turned her head away with a groan.

“IMPOSTER!” Chrysalis yelled as she dropped from the ceiling and landed on Dave’s shoulders, she froze as Dave looked up at her rather than falling over unconscious as she had hoped.

“Get away from him!” Luna and Battering Ram snarled in unison, they exchanged a confused glance before focusing back on the changing.

Dave sighed as he allowed Chrysalis to jump to the floor and face her two foes and a passive human. “Allow Chrysalis to leave, she can’t provide any assistance and she is no threat.”

“That human is not Dave!” Chrysalis pointed at the armoured human. “He has his body but he is void of all emotion.”

Odio groaned as he whispered into Dave’s ear, “That bug is so pathetic, she thinks that anypony would believe her.”

“She is correct,” Dave sighed. “I am not completely Dave, when his mind was torn apart his conscious mind was disabled and I am a fragment of his subconscious.”

“Wow, I go through all this effort trying to make this subtle and make sure I can talk to you in secret and in the end you just admit everything,” Odio made his voice clear to the other ponies and changeling.

Luna stepped over to Dave’s streamlined chest plate and gasped as a pair of red eyes appeared in the silver. “W-what is going on?”

Dave looked at Luna, “I have two days to make things better for Dave, once my time is up then you will have normal Dave back.”

Chrysalis sighed thankfully, “So when I kissed you I wasn’t kissing some imposter.”

“You what?” Luna stared at Chrysalis with disbelief. Her nostrils flared as she looked ready to charge the changeling queen and stab her with her horn.

“Stop it, all of you,” Dave ordered, all the present beings went quiet as the human stepped over to Luna. “I promise that I will give Dave back, but I need your help.”

The princess of the night looked up at Dave, shuddering under his empty eyes as she slowly nodded. “What do you want?”

“Where is the most secure place in the castle?” Dave held up a small piece of parchment. “I need to make sure that these artefacts are kept safe.”

Luna used her magic to take the sheet and looked at the list, “Purification orb, lucid clock, mirror of possibilities… why do you need all these.”

“I don’t need these,” Dave placed his helmet back on and slowly rotated his neck. “Dave might need these so I am making sure he is prepared.”

“Ok,” Luna stared up at Dave as Battering Ram and Chrysalis remained quiet. “I’ll make sure the artefacts will be kept in the same chamber as the Elements of Harmony.”

Dave nodded, “I am going to head to the dining room, if you or anypony else have any questions then bring them along, I will explain everything then.”

Luna nodded as Dave walked away, she shuddered as she looked at the floor before turning to Battering Ram and Chrysalis, “I’ll go get my sister, I think Strong Shield should come too.”

“What about me?” Chrysalis met Luna’s angry glare as the alicorn gently snarled.

“You can come, so long as you inform Adamas of the meeting,” Luna smirked as Chrysalis’ eyes popped open. “I will see you all there.”

Later…

“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Odio hummed. “They won’t like anything you say.”

“Because it is the truth,” Dave sighed as he looked at his blade on the table. “They can’t change anything now so there is no need for secrecy.”

The fog of hatred grumbled before swirling to Dave’s helmet and tapping Dave’s head with a small tendril. “You still haven’t told me the full plan, only that Harvest is coming and that it will be here in two days.”

“Two days and then everypony can go back to normal,” Dave removed his gauntlets as he held his palms against the blade, his fingers gripping against the crystal. He ignored the pain from his mark as the blade slowly twisted, the crystal phasing through the table and his hands as some parts of the sword melted.

The dining room door slowly opened and Dave pulled his hands away from the sword as it snapped back to reality and returned to being a normal sword. Odio poked Dave’s hands with fog as the human slipped his hands back into his spiked gauntlets.

“What the hell did you do to that sword?” Odio muttered quietly as ponies began to enter the room and take their seats. Dave glanced at the crystal blade before taking it from the table and resting it against his chair as he sat down.

Celestia sat opposite as Luna and Shining Armour sat beside her, Chrysalis was about to sit next to the captain of the guard but a quick Cadence quickly snatched the spot. Strong Shield and Battering Ram sat either side of Dave, Flux sat next to Strong Shield whilst Chrysalis took the other spot next to Battering Ram. A large shadow of a dragon head filled one of the windows and signalled Adamas’ arrival.

“I will answer any questions you have,” Dave sighed as he removed his helmet and placed it down on the table, he spotted Celestia’s suspicious glare as he looked back up. “Where is Nox?”

“He is in Ponyville, staying with Applebloom’s family,” Celestia narrowed her eyes. “Who are you and what have you done with my fiancée?”

Dave looked at the table as he cleared his throat, “Well I am just a part of Dave’s subconscious, just the fragment responsible for him not killing himself.”

“You have done a glorious job so far,” Odio chuckled.

“The first time he died was a shock yes,” Dave hummed. “But when it became apparent that my role as survival instinct was no longer required I… watched.”

Strong Shield glanced at the princesses before leaning forward, “So when did Dave actually disappear?”

“When a piece of Dave’s mind was torn from his skull, I stepped in as a reflex but actually filled the void as this body’s conscious,” Dave scratched his cheek with one of the spikes on his gauntlet. “After seeing what Dave does for others I saw fit to make some adjustments so that Dave never has to sacrifice himself in some ways to help others.”

“You are just trying to protect Dave, like always,” Cadence hummed. “When Shining told me that you had been acting odd I had assumed that Tartarus had warped him err… you… I mean Dave.”

“Dave doesn’t need anypony to help him, that is the problem I am solving,” The human rubbed his eyes as the ponies all exchanged nervous glances. “I am making sure Dave deals with his own problems, which is the only way things can be normal.”

Flux leaned forward and cut off the princess of the sun, “What will be different when Dave comes back?”

“Nothing, he will remember everything except this part where I currently act as his conscious,” Dave glared as Luna gave a smile. “No I will not remove his memory of Tartarus, he learned a lot and it is useful to him.”

Chrysalis hissed as she pointed a hoof at Dave, “What do you want? I refuse to believe that you want to disappear again.”

Some of the other ponies reluctantly nodded as Dave looked down at his hands, “I am Dave’s survival instinct, I don’t have one of my own so why should I care about fading back to my corner of Dave’s mind?”

Most of the ponies seemed satisfied with the answer, Battering Ram looked past Dave to see Strong Shield and Flux exchanging nervous looks. “What about your father? Will he still be punished?”

“No, neither will you or Flux,” Dave looked across at the unicorn and Pegasus. “Dave doesn’t blame any of you and he would actually benefit from having somepony else with certain knowledge like yours.”

Shining Armour stared at Dave as he shuffled forward in his seat, “What is going to be done about this… Harvest?”

“It will be destroyed completely and Dave should awaken as if he had just been asleep,” Dave pointed to Luna and Celestia as they glanced at each other. “Both of you will have to help him readjust, he will still have to recover from Tartarus but that should only be for a few days.”

“We won’t let him down,” Celestia nodded as Luna copied her big sister. “So when are you going to solve this?”

Dave tapped his head, “I can feel the other part of Dave’s mind reaching out, it should be here in about two days.”

“What should we do to help?” Luna sat forward eagerly. “We can help restrain it or…”

“No,” Dave tightened his fist as he stared at his helmet. “It is between me and Harvest, Odio will repair Dave and ensure Harvest’s destruction.”

Odio whizzed happily around Dave’s armour, “Woo! Best job!”

“That is the basics, I can answer any questions you may have,” Dave sat back and waited patiently as the ponies exchanged glances or mumbled to each other.

“Does Dave really love me?” Chrysalis asked as she avoided Celestia’s, Luna’s and Cadence’s furious glares.

“Dave respects you as a ruler and as a sister,” The human hummed as he noticed a small blush on the changeling queen. “But a permanent relationship is out of the question for now.”

“For now…” Chrysalis smirked as Celestia’s horn almost began to glow from her rage.

“What about Harvest?” Adamas asked, causing the windows to rattle from his booming voice. “What is it likely to do?”

Dave turned to look at the silhouette in the window, “Harvest gained Dave’s emotions, it will likely be distracted by things it has feeling for but it will come to me because it craves the memories, it is harmless to anything but me.”

The shadow of the dragon nodded before everypony slowly fell into an awkward silence, Dave stood and looked around at everypony that was around the table. “I will require you all to leave, I need a private word with Celestia.”

Strong Shield stood as everypony began to leave the room, “How are you going to beat Harvest?”

“I am going to let it kill me.”

Chapter 77

Celestia sighed as she rested in her bed, the thin gap in the curtains allowed a small amount of moonlight to fall across her bed. She rolled over to look at the armoured human that slept on the sofa, his helmet was still on so the princess wasn’t sure if the human was awake or not.

“If you are wondering about Dave’s physical state then I can reassure you that he will be in the same condition as when you last saw him,” Dave turned his head to look at the princess. “And before you ask the answer is no.”

The princess huffed as she folded her hooves, “Well I insist that we help you with containing Harvest, there is no need for you to fight.”

“If you interfere than there is the risk that Harvest will lash out,” Dave stared at Celestia, his eyes hidden by the narrow visor. “Dave needs you more than you know.”

“You know that you almost sound romantic?” Celestia smirked. “You said that you can tell us all about Dave, will you answer some questions?”

Dave was silent for a moment before he slowly sat up, he removed his helmet as he looked over at the alicorn. “Why would you want me to do that?” Dave stared at the princess, “If you truly loved him then you would have no questions to ask.”

“Don’t you dare speak to me like that,” Celestia snarled. “I love Dave with all my heart, and hearing you say things like that makes me doubt that I showed it enough to him.”

“Because I am part of his subconscious you mean?” Dave’s head tipped forward slightly, his eyes showing the burden from lack of sleep. “I do what is necessary for Dave’s wellbeing, I don’t reflect his feelings.”

Celestia climbed out of bed and marched over to the human, “Why did you hide yourself at first before coming clean?”

“Things changed, everypony became curious so I had to ensure that my plans won’t be ruined,” Dave rubbed his eyes, oblivious to the fact his gauntlets left scratches around his face. “I would have informed you if I could have, but I had to be cautious.”

Celestia walked over to her balcony as she sighed, “I just want this to be over, do you think it is easy standing aside and watching you be reckless?”

“No but I know you have the strength to do what is needed,” Dave stepped over to the princess. “You have been through much worse and came through standing tall.”

“Oh why do you have to talk like that,” Celestia noticed a slight confused expression from Dave as she looked at him. “I can’t get over the fact that you look like him, talk like him… but you aren’t him.”

“You will have your fiancée back soon,” Dave sighed. “He misses you.”

Celestia nodded in acceptance, “Just tell me one thing.” The princess fell silent as she looked down at her hooves, Dave waited patiently as Celestia looked the small gap in the curtains again. “Dave is happy right? He doesn’t feel pressured or trapped does he?”

“No,” Dave responded instantly. “Even though Dave has been beaten, torn, rejected, feared and even played with… he wouldn’t change a thing.”

“Ok,” Celestia responded simply as she stood silently. Dave walked back over to the sofa and picked up his helmet and sword. “Just promise me that whatever it is that you are doing… bring Dave back to me… please.”

Dave glanced at the princess before nodding, placing his helmet on and quietly leaving the room and walking past the guards. The human looked at his armour before changing his direction and heading towards the guard barracks, after a few minutes of walking he saw the double doors that stretched onto the barracks, he turned and took a nearby door that lead outside.

Odio yawned as he floated around Dave’s armour, groaning as he saw that they were stepping out onto the training grounds.

“Why is it that the first time I try sleeping that you manage to find something extensive to do?” Odio sighed. “Well if you insist on exercise, can you at least put me aside so I can sleep?”

Dave nodded as he gently removed his armour and placed it beside the tree, he left himself in his dirtied trousers that had sustained slight burns when the armour was made. He saw his breath make a slight mist that only floated a few inches from his face before the wind took it away.

Looking around at the flat land that Dave stood on he slowly moved his head to look up at the moon, his momentary lapse in concentration was quickly forgotten as he took a deep breath and began to stretch his arms around his body, testing his reach.

The next morning…

Flux yawned as she stepped out of the bedroom, leaving Strong Shield in bed as she looked for something to eat. The Pegasus quietly reached the stairs as she opened her wings and allowed herself to float down, not touching a step as she finally reached the bottom floor.

“Hello,” Cadence smiled as Flux turned to face the smiling princess of love. “I am so happy for Strong Shield, I always sensed an emptiness in his heart but you filled it to the point that it might burst.”

The Pegasus smiled before bowing, “It was my honour Princess Cadence, and how are you this morning?”

“I’m fine, and you don’t have to bow,” Cadence smiled as Flux rose. “I wonder how Dave reacts when he finds out that you are his new mother.”

Flux flinched as she looked away, “I am sure Dave won’t want to replace his human mother, he only accepted Strong Shield because he doesn’t have a father.”

Cadence frowned as she saw the pained look across Flux’s face, the Pegasus managed to keep most hidden but Cadence was more than observant enough. “Well we will go see what Dave thinks shall we?”

Flux gasped as Cadence used her magic to turn her around and began walking back up the stairs. “Are you intending to use Dave’s fragile state to your advantage?”

“No,” Cadence smiled innocently. “But I don’t want Strong Shield unhappy again, he was dragging the mood down every time he was around.”

Flux hummed as she walked alongside the princess, she used a wing to sweep her mane back again as she walked. Cadence saw Flux’s habit and attempted to stroke her own mane with one of her large wings.

The princess accidentally knocked the tiara from her head and it fell past her eyes. Flux dashed forward and her wing shot ahead to catch the regalia. Cadence breathed a sigh of relief as Flux placed the tiara back on her head.

“You have excellent wing control,” Cadence complimented the smiling Flux. “What kind of job do you have?”

“I was a guard here,” Flux’s smile slipped. “But that was before the Unity incident.”

Cadence saw another pained expression on Flux’s face so she decided to leave the subject and walk in silence. The pair of mares walked quietly until they reached the training grounds, their jaws opened as they saw a group of unicorn guards using their magic to flick playing cards at Dave, the human effortlessly grabbed the cards in mid-air and threw them back at the group.

“What is going on?” Flux called, the guards froze at the sight of Flux and Cadence. The cards were all stuck in the guards’ magic. Dave looked over, one foot extended to the side to catch on card that had gone wide.

“Wow,” Cadence stared at Dave’s seemly impossible pose. “If Shining was that flexible then I would never leave the house.” All the guards gulped as Flux’s expression of confusion turned to one of aggression.

Flux slowly rotated her head to stare at the blushing princess. “That is my son.”

“Hello everypony, what is going on… out… here?” Luna and Celestia stepped out onto the training ground and saw Dave’s elevated leg, the floating cards, a group of slacking guards, a blushing Cadence and a growling Flux.

“Princess Cadence finds me sexually attractive,” Dave sighed as he lowered his leg and pulled the card from between his toes.

Luna and Celestia both joined Flux in silently staring at Cadence, the princess of love stared at the ground as she whistled innocently. Celestia shook her head as she turned to look at Dave, “So this is where you have been all night?”

“Mainly yes,” Dave nodded. “I had to go to Odio’s room to pick up his laptop for him.”

Everypony looked over at the base of the tree, a black laptop was being gently tapped by a pair of silver gauntlets, Odio’s fog gently streamed out from the openings as he typed.

“What’s up noobs?” Odio waved as he continued typing. “Dave? It says here that Wilhelm Schulz’s son disappeared after marrying a gypsy woman.”

“Nationality?” Dave looked over as Odio typed furiously.

Odio hummed as his fingers tapped the floor. “Doesn’t say, she could be from anywhere in Europe and could have gone anywhere.”

“Ok,” Dave nodded. “But are we sure about Wilhelm Schulz?”

“Positive,” Odio said happily before gasping. “OH MY GOD!”

Everypony looked over to Odio as he began panting. “What’s wrong?” Flux ran over to look at the screen. “Who is Sly Cooper?”

“Only the greatest thief since Thief!” Odio exclaimed. “Oh there are some good games coming out soon, shame we can’t go to Earth and get them.”

“You managed to get the internet to flow through your portal so just download them,” Dave suggested as he began to put his crystal boots back on.

“B-but that’s illegal!” Odio stammered before gasping. “Oh wait, I just remembered that I don’t give a fuck!”

The ponies all exchanged confused looks as Dave finished putting his armour back on and Odio seeped back into the chest plate, humming happily.

The guards used the moment of distraction to leave, taking their cards with them as they snuck past the confused princesses. Luna walked over to Dave and passed him his helmet, “So we have one more day until Harvest gets here.”

“Don’t worry, I will make sure that everypony is fine after all this,” Dave gently took the helmet and nodded to Luna. “Am I correct in assuming that you have a question that you want to ask me?”

The princess of the night nodded, “Who is Wilhelm Schulz?”

“Due to having Dave’s emotions taken away, I have… remembered a lot more,” Dave scratched his head. “I can remember everything from Dave’s birth up to right now.”

“Sounds boring,” Odio groaned. “The first few years of being pushed around by parents and then a few years being pulled around by teachers then a year and the most recent memories of just getting into trouble and falling in love.”

Dave shrugged, “Your opinion, but I have a few small details I need to go over with Celestia and Luna.”

Cadence stepped forward with a smile, “Is there anything I can do?”

“Yes, stop thinking of Dave in sexual manners otherwise your husband my start getting concerned.” Dave walked past the blushing princess of love as he entered the castle.

Chapter 78

“You want us to what?” Celestia frowned as Dave handed over a list. “You are going to fight and we are supposed to pick up some shopping?”

Dave glanced at the list before nodding, “Go to Ponyville, get the things on this list, when you return everything will be normal again.”

“You are asking too much,” Luna shook her head, “How are we supposed to act natural when we are worried about you fighting Harvest?”

Dave sighed, “Listen, this will all be over soon, I know how much you have put up with already but this is crucial, I can’t risk Harvest running rampant.”

Celestia muttered angrily under her breath as she snatched the list away and left the human with Luna. The princess of the night watched her sister turn a corner before looking at Dave, the human slumped against the wall as he rubbed his head.

“Are you alright?” Luna rushed to Dave’s side. Dave pulled his hand away from his head and turned to face Luna.

Dave placed a hand gently on Luna’s cheek as he leaned forward and kissed her, the alicorn’s eyes widened in surprise but she didn’t pull back as she slowly sank into the feeling. After a few moments, the pair separated and Dave removed his hand from Luna’s cheek.

“Sorry,” Dave turned away. “Impulse kinda had his moment, he always did get us into trouble.”

“Well technically you are Dave I fell in love with except a little broken,” Luna stepped forward and nuzzled Dave’s neck, “Thank you.”

Dave gasped slightly as Luna placed a hoof on his cheek and turned his face, pressing her lips against his. The surprised human’s eyes slowly closed as the second moment of intimacy finally ended.

“You are doing so much in return for nothing,” Luna placed a dark hoof over Dave’s mouth, interrupting him. “We may not realize it yet but you are giving us all a new beginning so… thank you.”

Luna hurried after her sister, leaving the human to watch the alicorn leave. Dave slowly stood up and placed his helmet back on his head, quickly greeted by Odio’s red eyes resting in the visor.

“You felt something else from Harvest?” Odio hummed as Dave picked up his sword from its resting place against the wall and attached it to his waist. “How far?”

Dave began marching down the corridor, “It is going to run straight past Celestia and Luna, should their carriage be travelling on time.”

“Wait… It is going through Ponyville?” Odio hummed. “I guess it has already avoided densely populated areas and so it will completely miss Celestia and Luna.”

“It will go into Canterlot to look for me but that is the only exception,” Dave walked down the corridor as his armour made small clinking noises. Odio flowed around the armour as he made sure everything was attached correctly.

Odio silently agreed as he floated back into Dave’s vision, “So what was on that shopping list?”

“Suit, some other things,” Dave tapped his head. “Just making some plans for Dave’s wedding.”

“Did Dave ever plan for me to have a role in the wedding?” Odio beamed happily as his smile almost blinded Dave

“Yeah, something to make you finally pay back for all the grief you caused,” Dave gave a smirk. “It is a secret though.”

“Spoil sport,” Odio groaned. “Well I know my place during this fight, are you ready?”

Dave looked at his armoured fist, “I always was.”

Odio and Dave fell into silence as they slowly made their way along the corridors, passing servants and guards glanced at Dave but returned to their duties as Dave walked past and made his way into Celestia’s quarters.

Odio became lost in his own thoughts as Dave walked over to Celestia’s desk and began rummaging through the papers. Finally finding a small wooden box that was sealed with a small silver padlock.

Dave held his fingers around the padlock as Odio’s fog seeped into the mechanism and gently opened the lock. With the padlock removed, Dave lifted the lid and saw a silver bracelet with a sapphire glistening in the light.

Dave took the bracelet and clipped it to his waist, he walked over to the sofa and sat down, resting his head back as he sighed. “Wake me before sunrise.”

Odio grunted in acknowledgement as he continued to mess around inside the suit of armour. Dave looked around the room before allowing sleep to quickly take him.

The next morning…

“Hey,” Odio called. “COCK A DOODLE DOO!”

Dave bolted awake, his hand grabbed his sword as he quickly scanned the room. He groaned as he stood up and rolled his head around to get the stiffness out of his neck. The moon was nearing the horizon and caused the human to start leaving the room.

There were no guards outside the royal bedroom, the only sound was Dave’s breathing or the sound he made as he walked. The corridors were dark and only a few lanterns lit the white walls at the top of stairs or outside doors.

Dave descended the steps as he left the castle doors and stepped onto the courtyard. The two night guards standing beside the large gates looked over at Dave, they silently opened the gates for him as he nodded to then and began walking down the empty streets of Canterlot.

A few shops along the main street were slowly opening, a sleepy waitress was placing tables and chairs outside a café. A small colt was running along with a sack full of newspapers, stopping at every door to deliver one as he continued his early deliveries.

Dave reached the main city gate and walked past the guards as he left the safety of the city walls and entered the darkness of the countryside. He followed the road that circled the capital city, the moon hitting the horizon as he walked past his first statue, a small sign hung beside it.

Canterlot Labyrinth

Dave walked to the entrance and unsheathed his sword, twirling it around his hands before stabbing it into the ground. He pulled the silver bracelet from the black tendril that held it to his waist and placed it over the handle, letting the sapphire face him as he rolled his neck and made final checks on his armour.

The moon finally disappeared and the blazing sun replaced it, causing the clear sky to slowly turn blue as pegasi placed a few clouds in the sky, preparing for rain in a few days. Dave glimpsed at the sunrise before looking around his surroundings.

Various statues stood along the path, some were simple whereas some were completely chaotic. Dave saw the high entrance to the huge labyrinth, the natural walls looked intimidating enough without thinking about how deep the maze went.

Dave sighed as he felt a small ache in his head. He turned to see Harvest staring at him, the creatures yellow eyes were scanning his armour whilst Dave looked over the creature’s body.

Harvest stood on two, rear jointed legs. The body was covered in scales that turned into a carapace that ran along the top of the monster’s head and along the long arms that ended in two thick paws.

“You know what to do Odio?” Dave sighed. Harvest flinched at the name, obviously having an emotional response but not having any reason why.

“I will go on your signal,” Odio hummed. “This looks like this might be tough… kick its ass,” The fog of hatred chuckled as Dave slowly slid into a fighting stance.

Harvest hissed as it sunk onto its front paws and opened a mouth full of jagged teeth, a pair of pincers appeared at the sides and twitched rapidly.

The creature was the first to attack, it lunged at Dave with its claws extended and aimed for the throat in an attempt to kill quickly. Dave hopped to the side and retaliated with a quick jab to Harvest’s side.

Harvest yelped in pain as Dave’s spiked gauntlets stabbed into its side, leaving four parallel slashes along in the flesh of the creature. Dave hummed as he backed away from the snarling creature.

“Something isn’t what I thought,” Dave muttered before rushing forwards, Harvest reacting by rearing onto its rear legs and lashing out with its long claws. Dave ducked under the first swipe but blocked the other by using a forearm to swat the claw away.

Using his small window of opportunity, Dave brought his hand to Harvest’s face, roaring as he forced his resistance through the creatures head, causing it to flash and burst into ashes. Dave kicked the body away as it fell to the ground.

“Well that was easy,” Odio moaned. “We are supposed to get the brain! Not bloody disintegrate its entire skull!”

Dave took a few steps from Harvest’s headless body as it twitched, “The brain is in the chest.” He narrowed his eyes as the body sat up and green flame erupted from the headless neck. “Don’t forget, Harvest is made from every creature in Equestria.”

Odio whistled as another head burst from Harvest’s neck and the green flame disappeared, leaving the monster in perfect condition. “Hydra DNA?”

“It uses Changeling DNA to shapeshift and use any ability it wishes,” Dave clenched his fists as Harvest’s hands burst into green flames and the paws were replaced with two large talons.

Harvest gave no warning as it lunged with its powerful legs, closing the gap between it and Dave with ease as reached out with its new weapons. Dave managed to grab one of the talons but the other managed to grasp around Dave’s head, one of the talons broke through the visor and almost stabbed into Dave’s face.

The human snarled as he used his grip on the creature to lift it into the air and slam it into the ground. Harvest placed its powerful legs on Dave’s chest and kicked him away, breaking a piece of helmet off as the talon managed to hold onto the crystal.

Dave could see the damage without moving his eyes from the creature, the left side had broken from the visor downwards, exposing his cheek and throat. Dave pulled off what was left of the helmet and threw it at Harvest, running after it as it served its purpose as a distraction.

Harvest slapped the helmet away and left itself undefended as Dave grabbed Harvest’s carapace and dragged its head towards his rising knee. Harvest howled as the spike on Dave’s knee pad stabbed it, it pulled back as Dave spun and brought his armoured heel against the creature’s ribs.

The loud crack signalled that Dave had managed to break at least three ribs and wounded the creature but he still backed off as the creature snarled. Once again the green flame engulfed Harvest and altered the body parts for the next attack.

Dave used a hand to protect his eyes as the green light peaked in intensity, the light lasting a moment before disappearing and replacing it with the new and healed monstrosity.

The scaled chest was gone and replaced with a large exoskeleton, the arms were completely covered in the carapace and the talons were replaced by thick claws that would easily stab through Dave’s armour. The legs were no longer rear-jointed but were now also covered in the dark carapace that ran along the spine of the creature. The feet were large paws, the head was now covered in eight black eyes, and the mouth was just a set of long fangs.

“Well, I think you pissed it off,” Odio hummed as he saw the long tail that ended in a large stinger. “A lot,” He added as Harvest flapped a pair of long wings that resembled a gryphon’s.

Dave scanned the sky before looking back at Harvest, he bounced on the spot before advancing, taking a wide path as he punched towards the creature’s face. Harvest ducked under the fist and tackled the human in retaliation as it pinned him to the ground.

“Left hook, right hook,” Odio chanted as Dave rolled over and sat on Harvest’s chest. The human followed Odio’s advice and began punching Harvest’s face. “Finishing combo!” Odio cheered as Dave held Harvest’s head still and gave a final punch across the large jaw.

Harvest hissed as it whipped its tail into Dave’s back. The scorpion stinger pierced Dave’s armour and stabbed through his shoulder, a spray of blood coated a nearby statue in the crimson liquid.

Dave stood, the tail still imbedded in his body as he reached back and pulled the tail from his body. He snarled as he pulled the tail around his head in a long arc, swinging Harvest in the air before throwing it into the air, the monster roared before opening its wings and regaining control.

“Thick armour isn’t too helpful,” Dave groaned as he placed his fingers under his pauldrons and ripped off the armour, only leaving the spiked knuckles on his gauntlets.

“And Skyrim made glass armour look so protective,” Odio sighed sadly as he forced a surge of power through the chest plate and legs of the armour as he caused the surface to crack and break away from the lighter and agile armour.

Dave looked at the shards of crystal that littered the floor, “Do you still have some power in those?”

Odio hummed, “Some, why?”

“Let’s bring this fucker back to Earth,” Dave’s mark glowed as he forced his resistance at the shards. The crystals exploded and caused a large smokescreen and the noise echoed through the morning air

“Nice to see which part got fighting spirit,” Odio chuckled as Dave was thrown into the air towards Harvest. The monster lashed out with its tail again, just slashing Dave’s arm as the human shot past the beast, grabbing one of the strong wings as he pulled it free from the joint.

Both man and beast roared as they turned to attack each other, they ignored their declining altitude as they fought in the air. Harvest managed to sink its large fangs into Dave’s arm as they crashed into the ground, deep within the labyrinth. The human managed to pull his arm free, a steady stream of blood running down to drip off his fingers as the large gash in his arm slowly pulled itself closed.

Harvest jumped and kicked Dave with all the force in its back legs and caused the human to get smashed through one of the hedges and into a different part of the endless maze. Dave shook most of the blood from his arm as he looked around at the high walls, the leaves blocked the sun well enough to make it almost look like night again.

A loud hiss made Dave drop straight into a fighting stance again, his eyes slowly scanned the surroundings as the hissing seemed to be circling. “This bastard is stalking,” Odio hummed.

“I noticed,” Dave slowly walked along the maze as he continued to observe his surroundings. He paused before rolling his eyes, “You are talking about your game aren’t you?”

“Monster Hunter,” Odio chuckled before sighing sadly. “I just realized that I might be wasting eternity just playing games… I should find something else to do.”

Dave paused as he saw a flash of green light from over one of the hedges. “Good to see you are open minded.”

“Can you quickly recommend a good anime?” Odio asked

“Seriously?” Dave groaned before hopping backwards, a large hook-shaped claw stabbed through the hedge and turned so the sharp edge was pointed at him.

“Ahem!” Odio coughed to gain attention, “Well?”

Dave groaned, “Cowboy Bebop, now shut up for a minute!” He leaned back as the claw raced towards him, the hedge began to fall as the claw sliced through the foliage. Dave managed to lean back far enough so the blade sliced the air an inch from his nose.

Harvest hissed as the hedge fell and revealed nothing was on the other side. The creature yelped as its rear legs were grabbed and it was dragged into the hedge, Dave punched through sticks and leaves as he punched Harvest in the chest.

The pair wrestled in the midst of twigs and other plant life before Dave managed to escape the fallen hedge, Harvest was close behind, the monster attempted another lunge but Dave moved forwards to strike first.

A few rapid strikes to Harvest’s chest followed by a knee to the stomach and a final elbow to the spine caused the beast to fall. Dave took a few breaths as his muscles screamed in agony, the fighting suddenly showing its strain on Dave’s body.

Harvest’s eyes burst into green flame before looking up at Dave, its new cockatrice eyes met Dave’s eyes and caused his face to turn stiff, his vision turned black as he felt his head become encased in stone.

Harvest stood and opened his jaws wide to devour the human. Dave’s hands swung wildly until they managed to grab Harvest’s neck. The human brought his stone head into Harvest’s teeth, smashing them in as the stone prison crumbled around his head.

“Where is it?” Dave groaned as he spat a few stones from his mouth. Harvest’s face burst into flames as its eyes returned to being that of a serpent’s and his teeth were full of new fangs. “Alright, time to see if my hunch is right.”

Dave’s mark glowed as he raised his arm to Harvest, the creature dodged just as the invisible wall of physical resistance swept past and blasted a hole through the labyrinth. Dave ran straight through his handmade exit as he escaped the maze and began running along the outside, Harvest in quick pursuit.

The human saw the sword and bracelet a little further ahead he growled as he closed the distance and snatched the bracelet. He spun on his heel and held the bracelet out, showing the sapphire to Harvest.

“Sssssllllessssta?” Harvest whispered before its claw reached for its chest, a pained groan escaped its mouth as Dave felt his own piece of his brain pulse in pain. Dave threw the bracelet aside as he stood straight.

“COME ON YOU UGLY MOTHER FUCKER!” Dave yelled as Harvest roared and stabbed forwards with its claw. The claw smashed through Dave’s armour and ripped through his chest as it burst out his back and picked him off the ground.

Odio chuckled, “My turn.” The black fog of hatred rushed through the opening in the armour and engulfed Harvest, the creature screamed as it inhaled and became surrounded by the burning fog.

Dave pulled the claw out of him as the fog finished leaving the armour. He charged forwards and rammed his hand under Harvest’s spine, feeling around the monster’s shifting organs before finding his target and ripping it out.

Odio glowed red as he sent electricity through Harvest, the monster screeched before the fog quickly pulled away and revealed Dave standing with the piece of brain in one hand and the other aimed at Harvest.

Dave’s mark glowed bright as he forced as much resistance as he could into the abomination, the creature flashed white before turning to ash and crumbling into nothingness. The human gasped for air as he fell to the floor, his eyes looking up at the sunrise.

Odio floated over, his burning red eyes scanned Dave as he slowly covered the human in a thick shroud. “Don’t worry, I played that surgery game on the Wii!”

“The fact you can’t remember the name isn’t very reassuring,” Dave coughed as he allowed Odio to work. “Send Dave my regards would ya?”

“Sure,” Odio smirked. “I’m strangely gonna miss you.”

Dave mustered some strength to tap his head. “I’ll be here.”

“Well… yeah, you are a part of Dave’s subconscious,” Odio shook the piece of brain.

“I know,” Dave frowned. “I’m just trying to make this seem more…”

“Cliché?” Odio huffed. “I don’t see why, nopony is around to see this and I will never bring this up.”

“Just ruin the moment for me,” Dave groaned. “I thought you would have appreciated some dramatics.”

Odio looked around, “What movie set are we on?”

“I don’t know why I bothered,” Dave sighed. “Just put Dave back in control and let him suffer.”

“Fine!” Odio exclaimed. “Jeez, if this was a movie then I would have shot myself.”

“Oh ha ha,” Dave laughed sarcastically.

Chapter 79

“Odio?”

“Yeah Dave?”

“Why am I naked again?” Dave whimpered in fear as he poked his head around the city gate, only a sword covered his decency. “I am not going to get through unnoticed.”

The busy streets of Canterlot were packed with stallions, mares, fillies and colts. “Well they are naked, so why can’t you be?”

“I feel a bit uncomfortable walking through a street with only a sword and a bracelet,” Dave shook his wrist, showing the silver bracelet as it hung loosely from his arm. “Can you fly to the castle and find some clothes for me?”

Odio hummed before shaking his head, “Nah, it is just too funny watching you do this.” Odio began floating up as he chuckled, “See you back home!”

Dave stared as Odio flew away and left him to suffer, “Oh I am going to make you pay so much.” He growled in annoyance as he looked around the city again. Taking a final breath, the human dropped his head and began walking down the main street, his sword held close to his body.

The guards standing by the main gate had to hold back laughter as they saw the naked human walk past. The citizens were busy in conversation or were focusing on shopping, they stopped what they did as they saw Dave.

The normally loud street was reduced to silence as Dave became the centre of attention. Most ponies were stunned, not sure how to react, only the guards seemed to be sniggering at Dave’s misfortune.

The only thing that worried Dave was the fact that one or two mares in the large crowd were blushing. He gripped his sword tighter as he gave a nervous wave, “Hey, slight mishap with a… monster… well that’s what I was told.”

A restaurant door opened and Fancy Pants strode over, “I have a private booth inside, hurry along.”

“Thanks,” Dave said quickly as he was ushered into the restaurant, he walked past a few upper-class ponies that were eating and was guided behind a pair of curtains. Fancy Pants was chuckling as Dave took a seat at the large table.

Dave took one of the napkins from the table and used it to cover his indecency. “So how have you been?”

“I’ve been well,” Fancy Pants calmly nodded to the waiter as he poured the posh pony a glass of wine. The waiter indicated to Dave and the human quickly nodded. The waiter poured a final glass and left it near an empty seat.

Fleur de Lis stepped through the curtains and stared at the scene before her, “H-hello Dave.”

“Hey,” Dave took a large sip of wine. The new arrival glanced between the curtains and saw the small crowd that had gathered outside.

Fleur de Lis gasped as idea popped into her head, she quickly took her seat and whispered something to her husband. Dave shuffled nervously as Fancy Pants slowly smiled along with his wife.

“Say Dave… would you like to partake in some charity work?” Fancy Pants smiled as Fleur de Lis took a slow drink of her wine.

“Maybe,” Dave eyed both ponies suspiciously. “What does this… charity work entail?”

“A calendar,” Fancy Pants smiled as Dave slowly nodded. “You have amassed quite the following, I’m sure ponies all over Equestria would buy it.”

“Oh,” Dave shrugged. “Alright, for charity I suppose.” The human began drinking some more of his wine.

Fleur de Lis leaned closer to Dave, “Naked?”

Dave began coughing as he choked on his wine, he hit his chest a few times before staring at the smirking unicorn. “Are you insane?”

“Word is that many mares… and a few stallions, have come to see you as more than just some strange creature,” Fancy Pants was supported by Fleur de Lis’ nods. “A spicy calendar would definitely bring in lots of money.”

Dave nodded before he held up a hand, “Are you insane?” He repeated calmly.

“We would only make a few hundred,” Fleur de Lis smiled at Dave’s nervousness. “We would sell them at a price that meant only ponies that were serious would obtain a copy.”

“You are both insane,” Dave sighed. “I would have said yes to a marathon or something like that but a calendar? What makes you think I would want to do a nude calendar?”

Fancy Pants and Fleur de Lis both stared at Dave’s naked body and the human clutched his napkin tighter. Fleur de Lis sighed, “Think it over, we need something better than another auction and Photo Finish has been quite restless for an ambitious project.”

“I agree but we have to remember that Dave still has the say in this,” Fancy Pants kept his wife in check as the unicorns exchanged challenging stares.

“I’ll discuss it with Celestia,” Dave rolled his eyes, “Can I borrow a curtain?”

Fancy Pants nodded with a smile as he winked at Fleur de Lis. Dave kept the napkin close to his dignity as he tore down one of the long curtains and tied it around his waist, he picked up his sword waved to the posh ponies as he left the restaurant.

The crowd moved aside as Dave began walking towards the castle again, he kept staring forwards as he avoided making eye contact with any of the staring ponies, at least there were less stares than when he was completely naked.

The castle seemed much further away that Dave remembered as he slowly sped up in effort to get to the safety of the castle faster. The large gates that stood between Dave and the courtyard opened as he approached, the guards smirked as Dave thanked them and ran into the castle.

“Odio?” Dave called down the halls. He waited for a response but was never replied as he sighed and began walking in the direction of Celestia’s chambers. He passed a few maids and servants as he made his way and finally the pair of guards that stood guard outside the door.

Dave sighed happily as he entered the familiar bedroom, he threw his sword aside as he fell to his knees and began kissing the floor. “Oh I am never leaving the safety of home ever again,” Dave smiled as he removed the silver bracelet from his wrist and placed it back on the desk.

The sounds of hooves approaching made Dave smile as he looked over and saw the door open. Celestia and Luna stepped in with a few bags levitating in mid-air, the alicorns slammed the door behind them as they glared at Dave.

“Here is your shopping,” Celestia glared as she threw the bags against the sofa and they fell to the floor in a small heap.

“Uh… thanks,” Dave rubbed his hands nervously. “Has uh… something happened?”

“Yes, you thinking you can tell us what to do because you have Dave’s body,” Celestia snarled. “When do you plan to fight Harvest anyway?”

Dave stared at the floor before he realized, “Oh you mean my dad told you about that?”

Luna and Celestia stared at each other before they both realized what had happened. They both smiled as they walked over to Dave, the alicorns both raised their hooves and smacked either side of Dave’s face.

“OW!” Dave clutched his sore jaw as he looked up at the growling princesses. “What happened?”

“You went into Tartarus!” Luna yelled.

Dave nodded, “Wouldn’t recommend it.”

“You had your mind cut in half,” Celestia snarled. “We had to deal with your survival instinct while Harvest had your emotions!”

“Really?” Dave rubbed his head. “That sounds… bad.”

“It was,” Luna sighed. “Are you ok?”

Dave nodded. “Had to walk through the city naked but I think my dignity will hold.”

Celestia looked down at Dave as she saw the curtain he had turned into a temporary clothing. “Do you remember much of… Tartarus?”

“I remember… going a bit weird,” Dave hummed. “And I think I have been put off meat forever.”

Both the alicorns sighed happily as they exchanged thankful smiles and leaned down to kiss Dave’s cheeks. Dave rubbed both their necks with his hands as he smiled up at them, “Well I am happy to be back after a year in that hell.”

“A YEAR!” Both alicorns slapped Dave again and he fell to his back as he held his head. Dave nodded as he sat up, briefly explaining his entrance, the markings, the time differences and the warden. He left out mentioning his bet with the warden as he allowed the alicorns to apologize for hitting him again.

“I had almost forgotten that bad surprises do this to you,” Dave smirked as Celestia narrowed her eyes and playfully stuck out her tongue. Dave’s face suddenly beamed as he looked back up, “Oh yeah! And afterwards we would!”

Dave was cut short as a blushing Celestia wrapped her hooves around his mouth and smiled innocently at Luna. “I am just so happy to have our lovely Dave home again.”

Luna stared at the pair suspiciously, “You used to… mate, didn’t you?”

Dave and Celestia both glanced at each other before Celestia shook her head and Dave nodded. They exchanged another short glance before Dave shook his head and Celestia shamefully nodded.

Luna blushed as she looked down at her hooves, “Well I don’t want to break your tradition but… I did slap Dave too.”

Dave’s smile got even larger as he caught on with what Luna was saying but Celestia wrapped a wing around his head as she gasped at her sister. “Luna, I thought you wanted your first time to be special!”

“Was yours?” Luna rose her eyebrow as Celestia slowly rubbed circles on Dave’s chest using one of her hooves.

“Well we did take that step right after that incident with me… killing Dave,” Celestia sighed. “I wanted to make up for doing what I did, and it made me realize how important Dave is to me.”

Luna rubbed her hoof along her leg. “W-well Dave just came back from Tartarus and he is more important than life to me.”

Celestia looked down at Dave before smiling. “Well I don’t think it would be fair to intrude on your first time.” Celestia released Dave and smiled at Luna, “I can make up for lost time on our honeymoon anyway.”

Luna blushed as she looked at Dave, “W-would you like to… you know… with me?”

Dave stared at Luna before he smiled nervously, “Of course… are you sure though?”

“You are acting like when we first made love,” Celestia sighed as she jabbed Dave with her horn. “Now go with my sister and make sure she enjoys herself, I don’t like leaving anypony disappointed.”

Dave clutched at his curtain as he stood and exchanged nervous smiles with Luna. “Are you sure Celestia? I couldn’t live with myself if this would upset you.”

Celestia kissed Dave as she smiled, “I know you would never hurt me, you even threw yourself headfirst into Tartarus because you worried about me and Luna.”

“Thank you,” Dave whispered before he turned to Luna. “So… you sure?”

Luna smiled happily, “I have never been surer of anything in my entire life.”

Dave walked ahead of Luna, the princess of the night turned to wink at her sister before jogging to catch up with Dave. Celestia sighed as she was left alone in the room, her eyes wandered over to the discarded sword in the corner of the room.

Celestia wandered over to the blade and hummed as she tapped it with her hoof, she flinched as the blade violently shook and slid away from the princess. She looked at her hoof and saw a neat slice through the bottom of the golden regalia.

The princess stepped away from the sword and decided to leave it where it lay. She looked back at the shopping bags and sighed as she began sorting out the contents. She pulled out various items but had to take care as she pulled out a suit, for Dave as the black trousers were way too narrow for anypony else.

The princess hummed happily as she unpacked, placing a pair of black shoes beside Dave’s suit. She paused as she noticed the silver bracelet on her desk, she wandered over and run a hoof against the metal as she smiled.

Then a curious thought popped into her mind, she bit her lip as she glanced at her balcony window and the telescope outside. Her naughtiness got the better of her as she trotted over and pointed the telescope at another point of the castle.

“Woops,” Celestia smiled innocently. “It appears to be pointed at Luna’s bedroom, how odd.” She placed her eye to the telescope and let out a small squeak as she began blushing. “That’s… new.”

Chapter 81

Dave stepped out into the warm sunshine and Spike ran past cheering, sliding on his knees as he fist pumped the air. “So what now? Is the wedding soon?” the excited dragon bounced on the spot as he looked up at Dave.

“Well the decorations are should be finished by the time we get back,” Dave rubbed his nose as he looked around the streets of Ponyville. “You guys can go get the others, I have something I just need to grab back at my house.”

Adamas offered a claw to Dave and the human stepped into the large claw. “I’ll get everypony to meet at sugarcube corner and we will wait for your signal.” Spike saluted to Dave, “Should I get Big Mac as well?” the dragon asked as the human nodded.

“I’m gonna get him,” Dave hummed as Adamas brought his arm back slightly. “Anyway, I will call,” Dave waved as Adamas gently threw the human towards his house, Dave flapped his arms uselessly until he landed in the dense leaves of a tree that was only a few meters from the back of his house.

Dave tumbled to the ground but managed to land unharmed, he brushed his coat down until he walked over to the front door. He patted his pockets until he found the small key that allowed him entrance. He groaned as he had to push aside a few pieces of mail and one round package.

“Junk mail? On this world too?” Dave sighed as he walked past and made his way to the stairs. “Wait…” Dave turned to look at the one round package, the only item too large to fit through the thin letterbox.

The package was covered in brown paper, toilet paper, diet leaflets and one large sticker across the front. Dave wandered over and lifted the ball, he scratched his head as he wondered how it managed to get through the door.

“Maybe it was inflated or sent in with magic,” Dave hummed as he began reading the sticker. “To Dave the human, outskirts of Ponyville.” It was the correct address but it still didn’t explain how it made it in. Dave noticed that the sticker also showed the sender’s address, his eyes opened as he read the two words.

America, Earth.

Dave shuddered before he sighed, “Oh very funny Odio.” Dave muttered, “This is really stupid,” he chuckled as he tore away the paper and held a globe made of syrup and pasta. “And not to mention childish.”

Dave threw the globe into the bin as it began to lose its shape and left Dave rubbing his eyes. “I would have thought that Odio would remember I am from England.”

The human hurried upstairs as he rummaged through his shelves full of bits and gems as he found a spare bag and stuffed it with coins. He held onto the strap of the bag as he threw it over his shoulder and wandered back downstairs.

Dave gave the bin a final glance before leaving his house and locking the door. “I swear, Odio is really desperate to do something that random.”

The human groaned as he had to walk the long distance back to the town of Ponyville, he was happy enough having Adamas throw him to his locations but he always had to find the dragon again if he needed another travel option.

Dave walked through the town, pausing occasionally to speak to some of the residents about the upcoming wedding. He managed to exit the other side of Ponyville and was making his way toward Sweet Apple Acres, the large apple trees were a welcome sight as Dave walked in the cool shade.

Granny Smith was sat outside the house on a wooden rocking chair, Big Mac was bringing back some apples when he saw the human walking towards him. “Howdy Dave,” the large red stallion dropped his baskets full of red apples as he turned to speak to his friend.

“Here is your compensation.” Dave handed the bulging bag of bits to Big Mac. He smiled as the stallion’s jaw dropped and he shook his head, attempting to pass the money back.

“Ah can’t,” Big Mac sighed. “We are managing with a few damaged trees, you don’t have to feel guilty.”

Dave took the bag of money back and walked over to Granny Smith. “Excuse me, can I borrow Big Mac for a day or two? This money should cover the work he will be missing.”

Granny Smith narrowed her eyes at Dave and the bag of golden coins. “Now why would you want ‘im?” She asked pointing at Big Mac.

“Well I need my friends to go to my wedding,” Dave chuckled as he glanced over at Big Mac. “The incident in Manehatten made us friends for life.”

Big Mac looked at Granny Smith as she shook the bag of coins and she grew a wide smile. “Sure! I’ll go put these coins in my purse. Have fun Big Mac!”

“Grab something smart,” Dave smiled to Big Mac as the big pony’s expression changed from confused to happy. The stallion ran into the house and quickly returned with a small bag, Dave placed his fingers into his mouth as he whistled loudly.

A loud roar rolled through the trees as Adams appeared in the sky, he had a basket attached to his front claws as he carried all the ponies and Spike. Rainbow Dash and Nox flew around the diamond dragon as they played in the air. Every time the cyan Pegasus almost reached the grey colt he would create a portal that sent her flying out of a different one on the other side of him.

Adamas carefully slowed as he flew over the orchard, lowering his front claws so the large baskets touched the floor. “We improvised with hot air balloon baskets,” the dragon explained as the two baskets full of ponies waved at Dave and Big Mac.

“Good work,” Dave nodded. “I would say ‘this day has been just perfect’ but that would be tempting fate.” He laughed along with his friends before walking over to the baskets and giving Big Mac a boost into the less crowded one. “Hang on, where is Fluttershy?”

A quiet whisper made Dave look into the basket and saw Fluttershy cowering beneath Pinkie’s tail. A yellow hoof pointed at Adamas as she shook in the basket, her fear painfully obvious.

“We have met before,” Adamas sighed as he looked at Dave. “She is afraid of me, but that isn’t important right now.” Dave nodded as he began to climb up Adamas’ arm and towards his large head.

“Hey Dave!” Spike called. “Mind if I it on your shoulder? For old time’s sake?”

Dave held out a hand and Spike jumped to grasp it, quickly climbing onto Dave’s shoulder as Dave climbed onto Adamas’ head. “A dragon on a human on a dragon,” Dave held onto one of Adamas’ horns as he sat down and placed his feet flat to prevent him sliding. “Everypony ready?”

“You know it!” Rainbow Dash smirked as she raced past Dave’s head. “Hey Adamas, wanna race?”

“With these?” Adamas held up the baskets full of ponies. “Maybe later.”

The Pegasus sighed as she continued to fly with Nox ahead of Adamas, the diamond dragon keeping steady so his passengers didn’t get uncomfortable. Spike rested his arm on Dave’s head as he looked around, “I hope I grow wings when I get older.” His eyes moved to Dave’s dragon scale trenchcoat as he noticed a mark on his arm when the wind blew the sleeve out of the way. “What is that Dave? Is that a cutie mark?”

Dave looked at the brand on his arm, “Nah, that’s just the past.”

Meanwhile…

“I can’t believe this,” Matrix muttered to Night Stalker. He was met with silence as both guards stood to attention. Shining Armour smiled as he used his magic to levitate up a medal and pinned it on the pony in front of him.

“This is in recognition of your service as a truly brave citizen of Canterlot,” Shining Armour smiled as Fix It looked at his silver medal and smiled at his two guard friends.

“Thank you sir!” Fix It tapped the medal with his hoof and continued to smile with excitement. “I couldn’t have done it without those two though,” Fix It looked at Matrix and Night Stalker.

Shining Armour looked at the two guards before shrugging, “It was their job.”

“I thought we did well though,” Matrix muttered as he joined Night Stalker in saluting their commanding officer.

“You performed well for a recent recruit,” Shining Armour nodded. “And in recognition of your achievements, you can have a special assignment.”

Night Stalker’s ears stood up as his partner smiled. “What is it sir?”

“Go to the social hall and start putting up decorations,” Shining Armour smiled as they both lost their enthusiasm. “I want it as good as it was for my wedding, so get our public hero to help if you need him to.”

Fix It gulped as he looked at Matrix’s evil smile. Night Stalker even narrowed his eyes slightly that added more fear to the unicorn. He looked at his medal and realized that maybe gloating was best kept for private moments.

Meanwhile…

Odio shooed the servants out of his room as the new bed was finally assembled and the burns had been repaired on the walls and ceiling. He quickly began placing his posters on the wall again, the various video games, animes, movies and occasional pony superstar soon covered the wall in a thick layer of paper.

The fog of hatred whistled happily as he wiped the small specs of dust from his game console and began to hum. “Maybe if I added stuff to the controller or replace the buttons with gems then that might get some more interest.”

“Still working on the wedding present?” Luna smiled as she stood in the open doorway. “I am sure Dave will love it no matter what.”

Odio groaned in agreement, he was overthinking everything as the wedding drew closer. He looked back at one of the few links between him and Dave, his eyes burned dimmer as he looked over to Luna.

“I guess…” Odio’s fog slowed as he thought about the right words to say. “I am just worried that Dave will ignore me more once he has married both of you.”

Luna gained a disheartened look as she walked into the room and looked up to the fog. “Celestia and I wanted you gone, you were continuously trouble but… Dave fought for you and I am… glad that you are around.”

The fog of hatred smiled slightly, “Thanks Luna, do you want to play a game?” Odio parted his fog to allow the princess a view of the stack of games.

“Well…” Luna tapped her hooves against the floor. “I suppose one game of… Fallout was it?”

“Yeah, there is hardly any violence in that one,” Odio lied as he turned the game on and quickly placed the disk into the console. “You get to make your own character and choose what skills you have.”

Luna nodded, “Ok I will try my best to solve every problem with diplomacy.”

“Good luck,” Odio scoffed as he watched Luna use her magic to lift the controller and begin playing, creating a character that looked like her version of her if she was a human. The hair was a very dark purple, her skin was lightly tanned but was very smooth and was flawless.

As Luna began to sit through the loading screen she glanced out the balcony window, the rolling countryside was darker due to a layer of clouds being pulled across the sky by a large squad of weather pegasi from Cloudsdale.

“Was there much damage from the fight?” The alicorn asked as Odio hummed in thought. “I would have imagined Harvest was persistent.”

“Yeah, Dave’s survival instinct was actually a bit extreme,” Odio chuckled as he remembered the fight. “Anyway the only major things are a crater, some broken hedges and a statue covered in blood, they can all be solved with a bit of water and some dirt being moved around.”

Luna sighed, “That is good then, I am glad to hear that no buildings were damaged or anything like that.”

“The fight was clear from anypony so don’t worry,” Odio stared at the screen as Luna began running around the starting town. He noticed her glance at him before looking at the screen, “Fine, ask again.”

“Is there a romance in this game?” Luna smiled innocently as Odio rolled his eyes.

“No there…” Odio paused as a sly thought crept into his mind. “Actually yes… his name is Fisto and he is trapped.”

Luna frowned with determination as she played the game, “Alright, I will save Fisto.” She nodded as she set out on her adventure.

“He will be very… appreciative,” Odio smirked as he placed all his effort into holding back his laughter. “He is the type that just likes to give, you know what I mean?”

“Oh! Before I forget!” The princess of the night paused the game as she removed one of her shoes and pulled out a note. “This is for you,” Luna smirked as she passed it to Odio.

The fog stared suspiciously before opening the letter, “Dear Odio, as my friend and for being knowledgeable in every aspect of everything then I know you can perform any task I allocate to you, from Dave.”

Luna grinned as Odio nodded in agreement, “Turn it over.”

“Huh,” Odio turned the parchment over. “Dear Odio, thank you for agreeing to be the priest for my wedding, I also thank you for spreading your fog across Equestria and making it able for everypony to watch the wedding regardless of location.”

“You are so nice,” Luna smirked as Odio dropped the paper in disbelief.

“That. Mother. Fucker.”

Chapter 82

Adamas removed the baskets from his claws as he pushed them to one side of the runway. All the ponies left to get to bed early, Dave remained as he let Spike drop to the floor and Nox landed beside him.

“Alright, the guard said the wedding is arranged for ten tomorrow,” Dave rubbed his neck as he looked up at Adamas. “You going to be alright?”

“I shall be fine,” Adamas smiled as he reached down and rubbed Dave with his large snout. “Thank you for all the opportunities you have given me to expand past my barbaric past.”

Dave gave the dragon a hug by wrapping his arms around as much of the diamond snout as he could. “I am just glad I improved someone’s life.”

“Hey things got a bit more exciting for me when you showed up,” Spike poked Dave’s leg before climbing up and joining in on the hug.

Nox flew onto Dave’s head as he smiled down, “Don’t forget about me!”

“I never will son,” Dave smiled as he stepped away from the dragons and pulled Nox of his head to hug him. “I will always be there for you, I will never leave you and we will be the best family in the entire galaxy.”

Adamas walked over to the far end of the runway to lay down as Spike made his way into the castle. Dave ruffled Nox’s grey mane as they slowly walked into the large castle and made their way into Luna’s quarters, quietly at first until they saw nopony was inside.

“Alright, we get up early and then get ready,” Dave yawned as he fell onto the bed. “You want to know something Nox?”

“What is it dad?” Nox jumped onto the bed and dropped his head into one of the huge pillows.

Dave rubbed his eyes as he allowed them to fall shut. “I could have never asked for a better son, you matured so fast with everything going on and…” Dave yawned again, “I’m proud of you.”

Nox smiled as he pulled a wing over himself, “Thanks dad.”

“I will make your mother happy, Luna too,” Dave’s breathing became shallow as his voice became little more than a whisper. “Your mother is so… beautiful…” Dave fell asleep, exhaustion taking him as it dragged him into a deep slumber.

Nox watched his father before he let out a yawn of his own and fell asleep. Both father and son slept through Luna’s arrival, the princess smiled as she gently kissed both of them on the head and then left the room.

The next morning…

Dave suddenly awoke, surrounded by water as he instantly began swimming for the light above him. His head broke the surface of the water and he gasped for air, he rubbed his face before he realized that he was in Luna’s bath.

“Get washed then get dressed,” Strong Shield rose his eyebrow at Dave’s glare. “You are getting married today.”

As Dave heard the words he submerged himself and began washing as fast as he could. Battering Ram stepped in and threw Nox into the bath as well. “Alright Dave, Spike said he would wait for you then take you down to the hall.”

Battering Ram and Strong Shield both left as Nox and Dave began washing frantically, the alicorn preening his wings as Dave rubbed his face. They both finished and began wiping themselves dry, Dave helped rub Nox’s mane as the colt shook his tail.

They cleaned their teeth using some spare toothbrushes to make sure they were completely clean as they stepped into the bedroom. Spike saw Dave and threw him some pants which Dave quickly put on.

“Your suits are here as well,” Spike pointed to the two smart suits on the bed. One was for Dave, a sharp black suit with polished shoes that reflected almost perfectly. The other was Nox’s obsidian and diamond regalia, the polish had been used on this as it glistened under the light.

Dave whistled as he saw Spike’s top hat, “Nice hat, you got the rings under that?”

“Solid gold, should rest perfectly around Celestia’s horn,” Spike smiled. “We have a few minutes so get dressed and let’s go already!”

Meanwhile…

Celestia shuddered as she looked in the mirror, her knees were visibly shaking as she saw the white veil placed into her mane. Luna stepped beside her, the younger sister was wearing a purple dress that was decorated in silver stars.

“I think you look beautiful,” Luna smiled as her sister continued to stare at her wedding dress. “How are you feeling?”

“W-well I…” Celestia looked at herself in the mirror as she took a deep breath to calm herself. None of her golden regalia was on, she wanted this to be her and Dave, not a princess and a human. “It is indescribable.”

Cadence was applying makeup in the mirror beside Flux, “The feeling is wonderful once you see him at the end of the isle and you just want to run.”

“I think we should be more worried about Dave running to Celestia,” Flux joked as she brushed her mane, she didn’t have enough to tie into a ponytail or to sweep it all over one eye. “Maybe I should sit aside, I would make a terrible bridesmaid.”

“No,” Celestia said sternly as she stared at Flux in the mirror. “I didn’t ask you because Strong Shield wanted you there, I asked you because I want you to be there.”

Luna nodded in agreement with her sister, “You are going to marry Strong Shield, which means you are going to be Dave’s mother.”

“You do want to be his mother don’t you?” Cadence joined the other princesses in staring at the deep purple Pegasus.

“I love Strong Shield, and Dave is the most courageous thing I have met,” Flux smiled as she looked at herself in the mirror. “He is just like his father, and I would be happy for him to acknowledge me as his mother.”

Celestia smiled as she looked at her sister, “How do I look?” She asked nervously.

“Perfect,” Luna smiled as she turned to see Cadence and Flux were in their own bridesmaid dresses. The bedroom door opened and a maid stepped in, she gasped as she saw the radiant mares, almost forgetting why she was there.

“Excuse me your majesties but the guests are now being seated,” The maid bowed before leaving the mares to finish their preparations.

Meanwhile…

“Bride or groom?” Battering Ram asked the next ponies in the long line as he slowly ushered in the guests. Celestia’s side was filling slightly faster but it was usually a group that came to sit on Dave’s side.

“We are here for Dave,” The two mares smiled sweetly as Battering Ram rose an eyebrow at them both.

“You had better not cause any problems,” Battering Ram muttered as he saw through the disguises. “The last time a changeling was here there were a few arguments.”

The disguised changeling sisters hissed quietly, Larva had her amber hair in curls and her body was white. Chrysalis had a cream body and her mane was a rose colour, both had come as unicorns and their dresses were obviously part of the magical disguise.

“Listen, we are here to show our support,” Chrysalis stared at the larger earth pony. “If Dave chickens out then it is only fair that he has somepony to comfort him.”

Battering Ram narrowed his eyes, “I will let you in, but if I so much as see you blink at Dave then I will not hesitate to snap your neck.”

Larva and Chrysalis exchanged looks before walking past the navy pony and taking their seats. Battering Ram continued to stare at them before continuing his duty of ushering in the guests. He put on another smile as he allowed in a few off-duty guards.

Matrix and Night Stalker walked over as a few more guests were allowed in. “Is everything ok so far?” Night Stalker asked as he looked at the long line of ponies waiting to get in.

“Fine, is everything secure everywhere else?” Battering Ram allowed in a few more guests before looking back to the two pegasi.

“Yes, the chefs are also finishing off the cake,” Matrix sighed. “They spent most of yesterday making a small Dave figure to stand at the top beside the Celestia one.”

Night Stalker nodded as he pointed to the large double doors at the other end of the large hall. “The balcony has a few guards and the courtyard is filling with the public as we speak. Matrix and I will be guarding here as the ceremony goes on.”

The bearers of the Elements of Harmony arrived at the entrance and Battering Ram smiled to them. “Ah, you six get front row seats on Celestia’s side.” The elements were taken to their seats by Matrix as Night Stalker took the next group to their respective areas.

Rainbow Dash got comfortable in her set as a familiar pony sat in the opposite row on Dave’s side. “Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh, I have to go sit over there!” She squealed as she watched Spitfire talking with Vinyl Scratch and Octavia.

“No ya don’t,” Applejack sat on the rainbow coloured tail to prevent the Pegasus from sneaking away. “We are here on Celestia’s side together, and harassing Dave’s friends ain’t polite.”

The final guests were let in and the doors were slowly being closed, leaving just enough time for Spike, Big Mac, Shining Armour and Dave to step in. Dave checked his suit again before taking a deep breath.

“How are you feeling?” Shining asked as the group made their way to the front and stood by the archway.

“I felt less nervous going into Tartarus,” Dave gulped as he looked down at Spike. “You sure you have the rings?”

Spike nodded as he tapped his pocket, “Sure have, I made sure to check before we left the room.”

Odio’s fog appeared in the archway and he smiled at Dave, “I have screens set up in every city and large town.”

“Great,” Dave gave a thumbs up before placing his hands nervously together. “Is Adamas ready?”

The silhouette of Adamas’ head appeared in the large glass windows and gave a reassuring nod. The human wiped a bead of sweat from his head as he smiled to himself.

“Getting married to the one I love,” Dave muttered as everyone else around him ticked off mental checklists. “I can’t imagine what my life would have been like without everything that has happened… the good and the bad.”

Dave’s heart leapt to his throat as Adamas began humming loudly, his voice clearer and more impressive than any church organ could ever sound. He turned as he heard the doors open and Celestia stood, her face behind a white veil.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders were once again flower girls as they skipped down the aisles ahead of the bride. Applebloom saw Nox at the front and gave him a small smile, the colt smiled in return as he saw Applebloom in a fancy dress for the first time.

Strong Shield walked alongside Celestia, he was wearing a black suit that was a vast contrast from Celestia’s white dress. The pair walked down the aisle, Celestia smiled at Dave as the human responded with a smile of his own.

As Celestia and Strong Shield reached the front and the bride was opposite the groom, Strong Shield lifted one of Celestia’s hooves and passed it to Dave’s hand. The black unicorn then took a seat as he watched the proceedings, smiling to Flux before looking to his son.

Odio’s fog flowed in a small sphere, a white strip across the centre was his way of showing his authority. He waited patiently for Adamas to finish humming before beginning the proceedings.

“We are gathered here today, to witness the union of Princess Celestia and Dave Shield,” The fog’s voice was being repeated to the crowd outside and to every group of ponies all over Equestria. “The love that these two share has not come to pass without hardship, and it has endured through many attempts to squashed.”

Odio sighed, “I tried everything I knew honestly!” The cloud of hatred stared at the floor before looking up with a smile. “Can I get a ‘PRAISE JESUS’?”

Everypony gave Odio a confused look, except Dave. Dave’s eyes were filled with an anger that no facial expression could match. Odio apologized before continuing, “Anyway, I am sure Dave and Celestia have come up with some lovely vows to exchange and we can get our sick-bags ready.”

Celestia smiled as Luna levitated a piece of paper over to her sister, the page was covered in scribbles and writing. Celestia had obviously poured every emotion into writing the vows, nothing was not thought out or planned.

Dave’s face smiled but he screamed on the inside, he had forgotten about any vows and he had nothing to go on. He kept his smile as best he could as he racked his brain for ideas, he wasn’t going to ruin Celestia’s wedding.

“A few years ago, I would have never imagined I would be standing here,” Celestia took a moment to steady her nerves as she smiled at Dave, the human pushing aside his fears as he listened to Celestia. “I rose the sun and set the sun, I gave light to all the ponies and creatures of the world.”

“This simple act made everypony happy, and in turn it made me happy.” Celestia’s words made some of the ponies in the audience smile, knowing that their princess thought so highly of their simple lives. “But one day, a star fell from the night sky and fell to this world.”

Luna looked past her sister to smile at Dave’s expression, his face almost speechless from awe. Celestia continued with her vows, “This star was you Dave Shield, you were so different, not only physically, but spiritually too.”

Dave felt his stomach knot up in guilt from his lack to prepare vows of his own, Celestia’s heartfelt speech only made him feel worse. “You wanted to make everypony happy, even if that meant your own sadness.”

“You once kissed me on my cheek, before our love was apparent,” Celestia smiled as she remembered that day. “From that moment I wondered why I smiled around you, I made mistakes trying to figure it out and you should have left me so many times.”

The princess of the sun paused for a moment to compose herself before reading the rest of her vows. “But one day, you became a star in the sky again and I knew that you were the sun in my life, you were the reason I was happy and you were the one I want to spend eternity with.”

Dave snapped back to reality when Celestia moved the paper and smiled up at him. “And now my star has come back to me, I will never let you go again.”

A few mares sniffed after hearing the vow, even Flux was smiling at Strong Shield. Celestia handed her notes back to Luna as she stared back at Dave. Odio nodded as he turned to Dave, “And now the groom’s vows.”

“Oh… yeah,” Dave’s world seemed to stop, he stared into Celestia’s eyes as his brain worked overdrive. He couldn’t find the right words as he noticed a small sigh from Celestia, almost as if she knew this would happen but forgave him instantly. Dave’s happiness was smashed as he closed his eyes, knowing he had messed up Celestia’s happiest day. And she was fine with that.

But Dave wasn’t.

“From the first day I arrived,” Dave started, his self-hatred forcing out his true feelings. “I knew that I wouldn’t have a normal life, I would never see my home and I would have to endure ordeals every day to survive.”

“But then I met you,” Dave smiled as he opened his eyes and stared at the floor. “When I met you, I forgot about all that stuff, I didn’t care.”

The human continued to gaze at the stone floor, he didn’t want to see Celestia upset if he said something wrong. “You did put me through a lot that is true,” Dave sighed and he heard a few ponies chuckle in agreement. “But I did all of it because I hoped that it made you smile.”

Celestia had to hold back tears as she felt Dave gently squeeze her hoof. “It isn’t your sun that brightens my day, it is your smile. And it is that same smile that made me endure through everything.”

Odio’s smirk he had been wearing had faded, instead replaced with an actual smile as he heard his friend’s confession. Dave looked at Celestia’s hoof as he continued, “I know I will never have a normal or easy life, but as long as I am by your side then I will gladly do everything I can to make you smile.”

“I guess what I am trying to say is that I love you, now and forever.” Dave finally looked up into Celestia’s eyes, tears forming at the edges. “I am yours, nothing will ever change that. I will always be by your side and I promise to make you smile.”

“You aren’t a princess or a goddess to me,” Dave smiled. “You are perfection, from your smile to your personality. You are perfect, and I would never change a thing. I love you more than any words can say and more than any action I can do.”

Dave felt his own eyes tear as he smiled one last time, “I love you Celestia.”

The crowd smiled as Dave lifted Celestia’s hoof and kissed it, looking up at her teary eyes as she smiled. Odio sniffed as he got everyone’s attention, “Tissues are located at the end of each row if anypony needs them.”

“Sorry I had nothing prepared,” Dave whispered to Celestia.

“Neither did I,” Celestia smiled innocently. “That paper is for when I test new quills.”

Dave smiled as he stroked Celestia’s hoof with his thumb, “I love you so much.”

Odio tapped Dave as he returned to his duty. “Now Princess Celestia, will you take Dave Shield to be your lawfully wedded husband, in sickness and in health, so long as you both shall live?”

“I do,” Celestia smiled until Odio shook his head.

“That entire speech doesn’t work with you two,” Odio hummed before grinning. “Do you take Dave Shield to be your lawfully wedded husband, in boredom and in excitement, so long as eternity still exists?”

The princess looked at Dave who merely shrugged, “I do.”

Odio nodded, “And Dave, do you take Princess Celestia to be your lawfully wedded wife, in boredom and in excitement, so long as eternity still exists?”

Dave smiled to Celestia, “I do.”

“Damn,” Odio muttered to himself before smiling. “Now will the best man please pass the rings?”

Spike passed a large ring to Dave and a smaller ring to Celestia. He winked to Dave as he returned to his spot. Dave placed the golden ring onto Celestia’s horn, slowly guiding it down her white horn until it rested in place.

Celestia used her magic to levitate the ring towards the finger Dave indicated to. She smiled until the ring almost neared Dave’s finger and his resistance caused her magic to weaken. She pulled back so the ring didn’t fall to the floor as she shuddered.

“I can’t put it on,” Celestia whispered sadly. Another thing she couldn’t do.

Dave glared at his left ring finger, his eyes moved to where the mark was on his arm, hidden beneath his sleeve. “Yes you can, I will never resist you again, for as long as I live.”

Celestia looked at Dave’s determined face as she tried to place the ring on his finger again. She slowly neared his hand but this time her magic wasn’t being repelled or resisted. She managed to slide the gold ring completely on before she allowed herself to smile.

Odio smiled as he looked at Dave, he knew that he was channelling his resistance elsewhere and the pain coursing through his mark must have been agonising. But Dave kept a smile on his face to make Celestia happy.

“Are there any objections to why these two cannot be wed?” Odio asked as he glared around the room, every guard joined him as they collectively glared everypony into a silence. “No? Good,” Odio smiled as he looked at Dave and Celestia. “I now pronounce you man and wife,” Odio smiled. “You may kiss the bride.”

Dave gently lifted the white veil and smiled as he saw Celestia’s eyes look into his. “I love you,” Dave whispered as he gently placed a hand on Celestia’s cheek.

“And I love you,” Celestia closed her eyes as she leaned forward and kissed Dave. They both embraced as the crowds cheered, some whistling as the newlyweds kissed. Adamas let out a small roar of happiness as Odio sent the final image of Celestia and Dave kissing all around Equestria.

Dave was the one to finally break the kiss as he rested his head against Celestia’s. “So are we Dave and Celestia Shield now?”

“Or maybe Prince Dave and Princess Celestia?” The alicorn smiled as she nuzzled Dave gently.

“Just Dave and Celestia,” The both whispered in unison as they kissed again.

Chapter 83

Dave and Celestia kissed again, gaining an uproar from the crowd as they waved over the balcony. The crowds of ponies cheered as they waved flags and some danced in the streets, tables were laid out down the main street and everypony had a seat.

Dave tilted his head back to see Adamas with a wing wrapped around a tower to hold him in place, the dragon smiled at the human before taking to the air and flying around the city.

Flux slowly slipped away from the bridesmaids as she walked over to Strong Shield, smiling as the normally grumpy stallion gave her a small nuzzle on her cheek. Strong Shield glanced over at his son as he smiled. “He is going to be fine now.” The unicorn whispered.

“He has always been fine,” Flux kissed Strong Shield’s forehead as she smiled. “I wonder if he will like the gift we got him and Celestia.”

“He should,” Strong Shield snorted. “If he doesn’t appreciate it then I may have to make changes to his birthday list.”

Odio had floated to the roof of the hall as he watched Dave and Celestia wave to the crowds, the fog looked amongst the crowd. He narrowed his eyes at one pony that had a slightly bent horn, the unicorn’s mouth had a tooth that poked out as smiled.

A pair of mares stood and caught Odio’s attention, he recognised their true identities as the changeling royals quietly left. The fog of hate glared until they left, waiting until they were definitely gone before floating down again.

“Alright everypony,” Odio whistled to get the attention of the crowd in the hall. “The reception is going to be held in the plaza just outside the castle walls, there will be music, food and the happy couple will be the first to dance.”

Dave and Celestia smiled as they waited for the hall to clear of ponies, they waved to the crowd some more and shared another kiss before departing. They walked closely beside each other as they walked through the hall.

As they walked through the castle, guards, servants, chefs and groundskeepers were all lining the hallways and stomping their hooves in applause. Celestia blushed as she smiled to the ponies she saw every day, she considered them all friends but she never imagined they would be lining the halls for her.

Dave and Celestia reached the castle gates and stepped out into a shower of cheers, ponies lined the courtyard as they cheered and threw flower petals over the couple. Dave wrapped an arm around Celestia’s neck as they walked down a central path that took them to the large plaza.

A large set of turntables was set up and Adamas was sat behind them, he smirked to Dave when the human saw a familiar DJ jump behind the turntables and slammed on the switches to some lights, the mixture of reds and blues reflected off Adamas’ diamond scales as he extended his wings.

“Wow,” Dave smiled as he saw everypony looking at him and Celestia. He understood as he took a few steps ahead and extended his hand to the bride. “Care to dance?”

Celestia placed her hoof into Dave’s hand as he gently led her to the centre of the dance floor and they took their positions. Celestia stood on her hind legs as she placed her front hooves onto Dave’s shoulders.

Dave gently wrapped his arms around Celestia as some gentle music was played, Adamas slowly moved his wings to move the lights around the plaza as everypony watched Dave and Celestia slowly dance.

“I doubt we can try anything too flashy,” Dave whispered as he stared into Celestia’s eyes.

The white alicorn hummed, “Why not?”

“Well because…” Dave joined Celestia in a smile before holding one of her hooves and allowing her to lean back. As the alicorn rose again, she spun as Dave held a hoof above her head, the both smiled to each other as Dave wrapped an arm behind her back and swept her off her hooves, his arm the only thing keeping her from falling.

“I’m impressed,” Celestia smiled. She kissed Dave before he lifted her back up and resumed their dancing.

Cadence was smiling happily as she watched the happy couple dance. Her grin grew as Shining Armour stepped next to her. “Hello soldier,” She teased as Shining Smiled at her.

“Will you honour me with a dance?” The captain of the guard held out a hoof to the princess of love. The pink alicorn gladly accepted the offer as she was taken to the dance floor that was slowly filling with couples.

Strong Shield was watching his son dance, evaluating his performance and footwork. He rolled his eye to the Pegasus beside him, “Would you like to dance?”

Flux hummed, “I am fine here, and I know you don’t really enjoy these type of things.”

Strong Shield looked down as he sighed, “I suppose I don’t.” He stood as he turned to Flux. “But I enjoy being close to you.”

Flux blushed as she was offered a hoof and they both set out onto the dance floor. A few guards’ jaws dropped as they saw their old sergeant dancing, and dancing well. Matrix and Night Stalker watched the dancing and looked amongst the crowd.

“We are allowed to dance aren’t we?” Matrix looked at his partner as Night Stalker nodded. “So why aren’t we?”

“Because you would have to find a mare to dance with you,” Night Stalker sighed. “Basically all have come with a partner already so we are out of luck.”

Matrix groaned until he looked over at the food table and saw a familiar unicorn. He walked over and tapped Fix It on the shoulder, the unicorn swung his head around before smiling. “Hey guys, how you doing?”

“Fine,” Night Stalker responded simply.

Matrix was about to explain his dilemma to his friend but spotted a lone mare getting some punch from one of the large bowls. The guard put on a smile as he walked over, “Hey there, you enjoying the party?”

“Yeah, with a giant dragon as lights it couldn’t get any more awesome,” Rainbow Dash chuckled as she looked up at Adamas, she turned to look at the guard and smiled at his stripes. “I didn’t realize the guards were trained to look cool.”

Matrix chuckled, “Half pony, half zebra, all natural.”

“Really?” Rainbow Dash hummed. “Why are you talking to me anyway? I am not stealing spoons.”

“W-well I was wondering if you would like to dance,” Matrix tilted his head to the dance floor. As he saw the cyan Pegasus go into a deep thought a new beat kicked in that was a lot livelier and less intimate.

Rainbow Dash smiled to the guard, her eyes glancing to the two spectators behind him. “Do your friends need dates too?”

“Huh?” Matrix looked back at Fix It and Night Stalker, both stallions looked away innocently. “Yeah, if you know anypony for a socially awkward unicorn and an unfriendly Pegasus.”

“Hey!” Fix It and Night Stalker protested in unison.

Rainbow Dash smirked, “Twilight! Applejack!” She called over to a purple unicorn and an orange earth pony. “These guys want to dance, I’m sure you can find something in common.”

Matrix gawped in success to his friends before following Rainbow Dash to the dance floor. Twilight walked over to Fix It and looked at the medal he wore. “Wow, you must have done something heroic.”

“I DEFUSED A BOMB!” Fix It half-yelled, blushing slightly as Twilight smiled excitedly.

“You must know a lot about mechanics, I built my own machines to help with my own experiments,” Twilight giggled as Fix It’s eyes opened in surprise as he slowly smiled.

The unicorn ran a hoof over his mane as he looked at the dance floor. “We could talk whilst we dance, if you wanted to.”

Twilight smiled, “Sure, so long as we get near the speakers and see who can guess the power output first.”

“You’re on,” Fix It smirked as he accompanied the purple mare to the dance floor.

“Well your friends are certainly an odd bunch,” Applejack smirked as Night Stalker hummed in agreement.

Night Stalker looked at Applejack, “I know you probably have a few stallions wanting to dance with you, seeing as you are the Element of Honesty.”

“Nah, you’re wrong Mr Guard,” Applejack teased with a smile. “I got mah work ta do so I don’t have any time for any flirtin behaviour.”

“I agree, how are we supposed to keep a meaningful relationship if we don’t have a decent amount of savings,” Night Stalker looked at the dance floor before looking back to Applejack. “Would you like to hear flirting while we dance?”

Applejack smirked, “Seeing as we are on days off then I don’t see why not.”

The charcoal guard allowed himself to smirk slightly as he followed the blond farmer to the dance floor. Soon the party was in full swing as Vinyl played music and controlled the lights that shimmered off the diamond dragon.

“Hey Adamas!” The DJ called up to the dragon. “How about you lend a hoof to the bass?” The white unicorn smirked as Adamas tapped his tail along with the beat before letting out deep hums that shook the ground.

Nox was dancing with Applebloom as he saw his mum and dad slowly leave the excitement. “Where are you going?”

Dave ruffled Nox’s mane as he allowed Celestia to walk ahead. “Your mum and I are just going to spend a moment together, you have fun though.”

The human walked over to a large table and sat next to the smiling bride, Celestia kissed Dave’s cheek as he sat down. “So Dave, the rest of eternity?”

“Yeah, I think we can handle that,” Dave rubbed his eyes before looking to Celestia. “I will never get tired of seeing your smile that is for certain.”

Celestia smiled until a black fog floated between her and Dave, Odio’s eyes both looked at each individual. “Hey would you like to know what my gift to you two is?” Odio hummed as Dave and Celestia shrugged. “I managed to get an X-box here with all the latest game.”

“Really?” Dave narrowed his eyes. “What about DLC?”

“I made the portal in space and made it so we can connect to the internet directly to the castle,” Odio bowed. “I am very proud and I would like to thank myself for making a portal linking two worlds that is no larger than a pin.”

Celestia smiled, “Thank you Odio, I am sure Dave and I will love it.”

“Oh,” Odio paused. “Yeah, no problem but… it is all set up in my room and I think it would be technical moving it all to your room.”

“What was that about a portal?” Dave rose an eyebrow and Odio sulked away. “Oh and that globe you sent to my house was a poor prank.”

“Globe?” Odio stared in confusion. “What globe?”

Dave frowned, “The pasta and syrup one? It said that it was sent from America.”

Odio floated softly in the breeze, “You come from Britain though.”

“That’s why I was confused,” Dave smiled before it faded completely. “Who else could have sent it?”

Odio shrugged before floating past Strong Shield and Flux. Strong Shield walked over to Dave with a box and Flux walked over to Celestia with a small narrow case. “Wedding gifts, I had to make adjustments to yours Dave.”

Dave opened the box and pulled out some kind of bandolier, a thick belt with sheath fit around his waist but another thick section stretched over his shoulder. “Thanks dad, was this yours?”

“No it was my old captains,” Strong Shield smirked as Dave looked at him in shock. “Just because it was used by an evil pony doesn’t mean that it is also evil.”

Dave moved his hand to adjust the strap on his arm and the sheath moved around his belt and up the strap to meet his hand behind his back. “Woah, what the hell?”

“A simple mechanism means the weapon will move to where your hand is, allowing you to grab your weapon no matter your starting position.” Strong Shield smirked. “With a sword it will be very effective.”

Celestia smiled as Dave moved his hand between his legs and the sheath dropped back to his belt but flipped upside-down. Flux held out the small wooden container and allowed the princess to take it with her hooves.

Celestia opened the case, her eyes widened as she lifted out the necklace and admired the craftsmanship. A single gold locket rested on a thin gold chain, the surface was covered in tiny markings that retold Equestrian legends such as its founding and the defeat of ancient villains such as Discord.

“It was my mothers,” Flux sighed as Dave helped Celestia put it on. “She said that if you add you and your lover’s picture inside then your legend will continue forever.”

The princess shook her head, “I can’t it is too much.”

“You are married to my son,” Flux paused before looking over to Dave. “If you will be my son?”

Dave stood up and walked over to the Pegasus, he got on his knee as he wrapped his arms around her. “Thanks mum, and make sure you keep dad happy.”

“I will,” Flux looked to Strong Shield before slowly wrapping her wings around Dave and hugging him.

Dave smiled, “Love you mum.”

Flux gasped before her face turned red from embarrassment, “I… love you too son.”

Dave returned to his seat before Strong Shield and Flux left, the leaving couple walked side by side as they rested their heads against each other. The next to approach the married couple was actually Adamas lowering his head to them.

“On behalf of all the Enlightened, we congratulate you,” Adamas smiled as they couple gently rubbed his diamond snout. “Oh and those artefacts you had my apprentice fetch are now in your possession, the guards made sure they were secure.”

“Oh… ok,” Dave shrugged to Celestia. “How are your apprentices?”

Adamas groaned, “One has failed, one has potential and the other has a headache.”

Celestia gave her sympathies before the dragon returned to his lightshow duty. Dave rubbed his neck before standing up, “I am just going to the toilet, see you in a sec.”

Dave walked back into the castle and hurried for one of the nearest toilets, luckily not far from the entrance. He stepped in and looked around the small lavatory, a toilet, sink and mirror was all that was contained in the windowless room.

As Dave finished his business and began washing his hands, he stopped to smile in the mirror. “I’m married.” He looked at his hands as he curled them into fists and cheered quietly, “married!”

“Shame.”

The human froze, the familiar voice would have made him wet himself if he hadn’t already used the toilet. Dave struggled to lift his head to look in the mirror, his felt his heart beat against his chest, his eyes widening in terror as he saw the abyss behind the black hood.

“H-how?” Dave stammered in disbelief that the warden of Tartarus was behind him.

“I can check up on past inmates,” Warden looked down at Dave. “And you 1EC have a special place in our records. I came bearing a present for you.”

Dave shuddered as he felt the mark on his arm resonate to Warden’s presence, the tall being moved an arm to hover over the brand and a long grey finger slipped out of the sleeve and pressed against the mark.

“P-please,” Dave whimpered, knowing he was powerless against Warden. “I’ll do anything, just… don’t take me back.”

“The bet wouldn’t be valid if I forced you back,” Warden hummed. “You go back willingly, and if you don’t come back with a positive point about my prison then I make you my personal victim of torture. But don’t think you can just stay away and live normally, because I will appear every time you have a happy moment and make you remember.”

Dave looked at his arm as the grey finger pulled aside his sleeve and pressed into his flesh, the pain masked by fear.

“Say thank you for the gift I am giving you,” Warden watched as Dave whimpered a quiet thank you. “You are welcome.”

Dave’s vision filled with blackness before his eyes opened again and he was sprawled across the sink, his mark had no evidence of any finger being pressed into his skin. The human turned on the tap to splash his face with water before staggering outside the bathroom.

“I swear, I will win this bet and see you dead,” Dave snarled, his anger focused at Warden. He looked down the corridors for any evidence of the prison warden.

The recently married human remembered the party going on outside, he walked out and headed back to the plaza. He saw a pony trot past and his mouth parted in a snarl, a low hiss left his mouth as he drooled.

Dave slapped a hand over his mouth, he had only reacted like that when he was in the final month of his sentence of Tartarus. He was an animalistic and ruthless predator, his hunting was more about delivering crippling blows before moving in for the feast.

Every time Dave walked past a pony he thought of a thousand ways to kill and devour them. His mind clouded until he saw Celestia, his primal urges retreated as he hurried over to his bride and kissed her deeply.

“Together forever?” Dave asked, more out of fear that he might lose control.

Celestia smiled as she held the human, “Of course, I will never let you go”

“Thank you,” Dave whispered as he kissed the alicorn again. His mind flashed back to the saying he heard repeated a thousand times in prison.

You may leave Tartarus. But Tartarus never leaves you.

Chapter 84

The first thing Dave saw when he opened his eyes was the soft eyes of Celestia looking down at him, the alicorn smiled as she kissed his lips. “Morning, how does it feel?”

“Being married?” Celestia continued to stare into Dave’s blue eyes. “Well so far I am enjoying it. How about you?”

Dave hummed playfully, “Well as long as I am beside you then I have no complaints.”

The couple began kissing again as they giggled, Dave rolling Celestia onto her back as he climbed on top of her. They were disturbed by a knock at the door, Dave rolled his eyes as he fell back to his pillow.

The door slowly opened and Luna poked her head in with a smile, “Hey, how are you both feeling?”

Celestia and Dave smiled at each other, “Perfect.” They said in unison before they reluctantly got up, Dave finding some shorts and a shirt inside one of the draws beside the bed. Dave also clipped on his gift from Strong Shield and placed his crystal sword into the sheath.

“You look like you are going into battle,” Luna sighed as Dave tested the movement of the sword depending where he placed his arms.

“Huh?” Dave looked over at the princesses before rubbing his fingers through his hair. “Yeah but I hope to avoid any life threatening situations again.”

Celestia levitated over her comb as she brushed her mane, “Is there something wrong Luna? Normally you would be asleep by now.”

“Oh I am here to let you know of your honeymoon plans,” Luna smiled innocently as Dave and Celestia shared suspicious looks. “You leave in three hours, everything is packed and you will be gone for two weeks.”

“What?” Celestia gasped. “Where are we going?”

Luna winked, “You remember that cruise ship that they built to sail along the coast of Equestria?”

“The most expensive one?” Celestia rose her eyebrow. “The one supposedly to have everything a city has?”

“The Gleaming Comet!” Luna cheered. “You and Dave are getting the best room in the entire ship, which includes a private hot tub, all day service and constant reservations at the best restaurant.”

Celestia and Luna continued to talk about the cruise ship whilst Dave took off his sword and sheath. “I’m going to be back in a minute, I am just going to say thanks to Odio for yesterday.”

Both princesses gave Dave a kiss on the cheek before he left and made his way to Odio’s room, the door swung open before Dave even got close. The fog of hatred had a large smile as Dave walked into the room.

“So Dave,” Odio said seductively. “You wanna play with my Blood Dragon?”

“What?” Dave stared at Odio until the fog broke into a fit of laughter.

“It is just a Far Cry game,” Odio explained before looking back at his friend. “So, I take it that you are happy?”

Dave shrugged, “I would still be dancing if it wasn’t for a certain ‘gift’ I got.”

“Fine I’ll get a goddamn Wii if that makes you happy,” Odio groaned before noticing Dave’s shivering hands. “Alright relax I will poke around your head.”

Dave fell back onto the bed as the black fog surrounded his head, Odio made a few whistling noises as he worked. The human felt sharp jolts of pain before everything returned to normal, “The warden of Tartarus showed up and did something to me.”

“I know,” Odio sighed. “You might not want to hear this but… it actually is a gift… kinda.”

“Oh brilliant another psychological problem, what is it this time? Amnesia?” Dave lifted up his arm to look at his mark. “Just give me a simple version.”

“He has given you a rage mode,” Odio sighed. “You have had your brain rewired slightly, so when you get damaged, your brain activates the side of you that you were like in Tartarus.”

Dave scratched his chin, “So if somepony were to actually knock me out then I would eat them.”

“Yeah… sucks to be them,” Odio removed his tendrils from Dave’s brain as he looked over the human. “But a year of hell seems to have done wonders for your fitness, hair, looks.”

Dave frowned until Odio passed him a mirror, Dave looked at himself before noticing slight differences. He had technically aged a whole year in just one day. “So I missed another birthday,” Dave groaned. “I actually miss them.”

“Anyway, just keep a cool head and don’t get hit by a train,” Odio glanced at Dave. “I mean it takes something big to knock you out.”

“Do you think I am overpowered?” Dave looked at his hands as he slowly clenched them into tight fists. “I mean, I am immortal, have strength, a rage mode and the ability to resist anything.”

Odio hummed, “You still feel pain, the rage makes you eat things and you can’t control your resistance.”

“True,” Dave watched Odio play some of his game before standing up. “Anyway, Luna surprised me and Celestia with a luxury cruise, I will be back in two weeks.”

Odio stared at Dave with sad eyes before returning to normal and mumbling, “Yeah whatever.”

“You don’t care that I am going away for a while?” Dave pouted as Odio looked back to his screen.

“You will probably get roped into some random shenanigan,” Odio yawned. “Let me know how the fights go, you can miss out the parts with Celestia.”

Dave rolled his eyes before standing up, “Alright, I’ll be off now.” The human left his friend and began heading towards the guard barracks.

“Hang on, let me save!” Odio called as he hurried to save his game.

As Dave waited a pair of groundskeepers passed him that were muttering about work. “I’m glad for the day off today, fixing that statue by the labyrinth was such a pain,” One sighed to the other. “Not to mention all the blood.”

The other nodded in agreement, “I never knew that it was hollow, and we had to make a new draconequus claw, I never heard of it so I made something up.”

“You don’t do anything but eat, sleep and work,” The first groundskeeper frowned. “So of course you won’t know anything about magical creatures.”

Dave looked back at the groundskeepers, his brain working before dismissing the subject and making him continue walking to the barracks. Odio floated beside him shortly after and hummed happily, “I love people from Earth that threaten to come round my house and beat me up.”

“Because we live on another world?” Dave chuckled. “Who did you piss off this time?”

“Just some people on DayZ,” Odio hummed. “I think they got a bit annoyed when I broke their legs and ran them over with their own jeep.”

The human shrugged, “So long as you got good equipment.”

“Oh I burnt it all,” Odio chuckled. “And sniped anyone trying to investigate the burning car full of ammo and ghillie suits.”

Dave laughed as Odio seemed calm about the whole act of burning precious resources, “You are such a dick, and I love you for it.”

“Aww bless,” Odio pouted playfully at his friend. “And I’ll go make you my emblem for Black Ops 2 shall I?”

“Yeah, make it look badass to get your point across,” Dave suggested as he saw the barracks approaching. The fog of hate shrunk as he followed Dave through the doors and were greeted by a few cheers from the off duty guards.

Shining Armour walked over to the embarrassed human and shook his hand. “I have never seen Celestia as happy as she was yesterday.”

“I aim to keep her that happy,” Dave smiled as he looked across the barracks and saw Strong Shield, Flux and Battering Ram. “I have to speak to my folks, I’ll catch up in a bit.”

Shining Armour nodded before Dave walked over to his parents and sat between them, he gave a small wave to Battering Ram before looking between his mother and father. “What is the Gleaming Comet?”

“Four large, extra thick balloons,” Flux hummed. “From bow to stern… about four hundred and twenty five meters.”

Battering Ram nodded, “It is basically a floating city.”

“Columbia?” Odio gasped. “Dave you have to let me go! You can cosplay as Booker and I can be Songbird!”

Dave slowly turned to look at Odio, “Have you cosplayed before?”

“Twice,” Odio said proudly. “Once as you and once as Ghastly from Pokémon. Have you ever cosplayed?”

Dave rubbed his neck, “Apart from the Satan and the Jehovah’s witness thing… I went as Dante once for Halloween.”

“How well did that go down?” Odio asked ignoring the three other ponies at the table.

Dave tilted his head from side to side, “About as well as an elderly woman going face first down stairs.”
“Ahem!” Battering Ram coughed to gain Odio’s and Dave’s attention. “Anyway the ship flies along the coast, landing once or twice at cities every month for more supplies.”

“For the first few days it does go over the ocean and you can’t see the land,” Flux sighed happily. “I would love to go once in my life.”

Strong Shield’s ears pricked up for a moment before his eye looked out the window. “Just enjoy yourself, it won’t be a good honeymoon if you worry all the time.”

“Yeah, pirate attacks are a thing of the past now,” Battering Ram chuckled.

“Well I hope to get off the whole adventure and hero thing,” Dave rested his head on the table. “After the first few deaths it began to lose its appeal.”

Flux shuffled over and rubbed Dave’s head with a gentle hoof, “But what are you going to do without all those things?”

“I want to be a father to Nox, a husband to Celestia,” Dave sat up as he rubbed his eyes. “I also have to be there for Luna until that relationship develops.”

“Listen, Luna knows that you love her and Celestia equally, and that is why she is taking a step back for a moment.” Flux explained to the human, “You have all of eternity to show your love to her, and she is willing to wait a little while.”

“Oi!” Odio poked Dave. “What about your new rage mode?”

Dave shot Odio a glare for him to remain silent but everypony at the table had already grown curious looks. Strong Shield stared at Dave as the human turned to look at him, “Tell me.”

Dave sighed as he rubbed his face, “The warden of Tartarus showed up and did something to me.”

“Warden made Dave start thinking like he was in Tartarus again,” Odio hummed. “Looks effective but may be a bit awkward if Dave rips somepony’s head off and eats the body.”

“So by rage mode you mean that if you start getting angry, or your adrenaline gets a bit high then...” Battering Ram didn’t finish as Dave nodded.

Strong Shield hummed, “Just enjoy your honeymoon, don’t get into anything requiring a lot of physical activity…”

“Dave failed that repeatedly,” Odio gagged. “It was his wedding yesterday, it is his honeymoon now.”

“Fair point,” Strong Shield rose an eyebrow at Dave’s grin. “Ok, no fights.”

“Sure!” Dave quickly agreed as he rested his head on his hands. “Anyway, will you look after Nox for me while I am away?”

Flux nodded, “Sure, so do you consider us as his grandparents?”

“Sure, I know that you really want to make it up to Strong Shield and me for all the shit we got put through at your hooves,” Dave wrapped an arm around Flux as he gave her a small hug. “If dad trusts you then I trust you.”

“Thank you son,” Flux hugged Dave back before tapping him. “Now go enjoy your honeymoon.”

Odio rolled his eyes, “Yeah have fun without me.”

Dave stood up and said his goodbyes before leaving the barracks, making his way back to Celestia’s quarters. He said hello to a few servants along the way before stepping into the royal chambers and saw Celestia and Luna packing a suitcase.

The human smiled as he sat down, watching the sisters laugh as they tried to decide on what to pack and what to leave. Celestia placed a few spare clothes for Dave into the bag before spotting him and giving him a smile.

“I’m just going to make myself look a bit more presentable,” Celestia said before she walked into the bathroom. Luna zipped up the bag before joining Dave on the sofa and resting her head on his shoulder.

“You make sure that you both enjoy yourselves ok?” Luna smiled happily as Dave nodded and began to gently stroke her mane. “You looked very handsome in your suit yesterday.”

Dave stopped stroking Luna’s hair as he gently lifted her head to look at the princess’ eyes. “And if you look as beautiful in a wedding dress as you did in your bridesmaid’s dress then you will make me the happiest guy in Equestria.”

Luna blushed before Dave kissed her nose, the princess melting into his arms as she hummed happily. “I love you Dave.”

“I love you too Luna,” Dave held the alicorn close. “When I get back, I will spend so much time with you.”

“I’ll hold you to that,” Luna rubbed her head under Dave’s chin. “Maybe we can go on our own cruise at some point?”

Dave rubbed Luna’s mane as he kissed her head, “I will see if we can get a cabin somewhere isolated and it can be just you and me, no distractions.”

“Sounds perfect actually,” Luna rested her eyes as she snuggled against Dave’s warm body. “Say you love me again.”

Dave smiled down at the princess, “I love you now and forever, Princess Luna.”

Celestia stepped back into the bedroom and smiled at the pair before her, “You both look so sweet you know that?”

“Sorry sister, I forgot about the honeymoon for a moment,” Luna sighed as she stood up and was removed from Dave’s embrace. “I will see you both in two weeks.”

“Bye Luna,” Dave picked up the large suitcase as he wrapped an arm around Celestia and they both left the royal quarters, making their way down the stairs and through the large castle. The married couple stepped out onto the courtyard and made their way to the large gate, giving each other a quick kiss before stepping out onto the main street of Canterlot.

Dave and Celestia walked along the street, ponies bowing in respect as they passed. Celestia bowed her head to the ponies whilst Dave gave small waves. The princess of the sun directed Dave along another road which took them up a steeper road, leading to a large building built into the mountain.

A large wooden ship floated down from the dense clouds, a huge white balloon held up the vessel as it steered and stopped beside a flat piece of ground and ramps were extended. A few ponies began boarding as Dave and Celestia approached, the few were obviously rich, mainly due to the presence of well-dressed stallions and the flamboyant dresses on the mares.

As the princess appeared, the upper-class immediately descended into a bow, Dave’s suitcase was taken by one of the sailors and a sharply dressed captain stepped off the wooden ship. “It is an honour to have you aboard our ship Princess Celestia and Prince Dave, may I congratulate you both on a glorious wedding.”

“It’s just Dave,” The human mumbled to himself as he followed the white captain onto the ship. “This thing isn’t as big as I heard, this is only the size of a football pitch.”

“A what pitch?” The captain asked before shaking his head. “But this is only the ship that takes ponies to and from the ground, your bags will be taken directly to your room as soon as we meet up with The Gleaming Comet. Is there anything else we can do?”

Celestia shook her head, “No thank you, my husband and I are already happy with your hospitality.”

“Actually there is one thing,” Dave smiled as Celestia and the captain looked at him. “Can you make sure we have no disturbances for two… three days?”

The captain nodded and failed to notice the large blush that grew on Celestia’s face. Dave smiled at the alicorn as she bit her bottom lip and a look of hunger flashed across her face. “Also make sure some whipped cream is delivered.” The alicorn called before smiling seductively at Dave.

Dave and Celestia held each other as the final ponies boarded and the airship began to lift from the port and take to the air. Dave didn’t notice as the ship passed through the layer of fluffy white clouds.

Dave’s eyes flickered past Celestia for a brief moment and spotted a giant wooden vessel that would have matched Canterlot Castle in size. “Holy hell,” Dave whispered as the ship that was held up by four colossal balloons slowly began to turn, a dock on the rear presented itself and the docking ship effortlessly slid into the bay and gently came to a stop.

“Thank you, your bags are now being taken to your rooms, please follow a guide that will take you wherever you wish to go,” The captain announced before following some of his sailors onto the main ship.

Dave stepped off the docking ship and gawped at the large buildings that were on the Gleaming Comet. “Small city is a bit of an understatement,” Dave stepped to the edge and peered over. “And that is just showing off.”

“We should be higher than Cloudsdale,” Celestia hummed before nudging her partner. “Come on, let’s go to our room.”

Dave pulled himself away from the sight of the vast landscape and followed the princess, they were lead through wooden corridors with luxury red carpet and paintings that adorned the walls. They arrived at a pair of double doors that opened up onto a large open room.

Windows stretched across one side, showing the view in all its glory as the ground looked almost like a map from the distance they were from it. A four-poster bed was against the other side, obviously allowing the residents to wake up and see the spectacle with ease.

A side room contained a bathroom with a large hot tub, the sink was marble and two sparkling gold taps stood proud at either side. Celestia thanked their guide as she saw the bags were placed beside the bed and ready for unpacking. A can of whipped cream was on a golden tray that was placed on the centre of an oak table that was in the middle of the room.

Dave looked out the window and turned with a smile to Celestia, “Well this is certainly better than any hotel I have ever been in.”

“The restaurant menu and open times are on the table, if you need anything during your stay, there will be somepony to assist at the end of the corridor.” The guide pointed back to the door. “There is a desk that is always stationed, please enjoy your stay.” The guide bowed before leaving the couple alone.

Celestia hummed happily as she sat on the bed, the soft cushions almost enticed her into a sweet slumber immediately. The white alicorn opened her eyes to watch her husband look around the room, the inquisitive human spent most of his time looking out of the window.

“So…” Celestia hummed as she used her magic to lock the door and close the curtains along the large window. Lights on the walls flicked into action and left the room in a dimly lit status, enough for Dave to turn and stare at Celestia. “What would you like to do?”

Dave chuckled as he walked over and dropped onto the bed beside Celestia, he gave her a kiss before he let his body relax and he was left looking up at the princess. “I love you.”

“I know,” Celestia replied happily. The human slowly smiled as he played with the ring on his finger. Celestia’s seductive smile slipped as she gave a curious tilt of her head. “What?” The princess asked.

“You are so beautiful,” Dave never lost his smile as Celestia blushed. “I could never wish for a moment as perfect as this, right here, next to you.”

Celestia kissed Dave’s nose as she rubbed her face against his neck, “And I have never been as happy as I am now.”

“Celestia…” Dave sat up as he continued to play with the gold band around his finger. “I think I have enough of a grasp on my resistance to stop resisting certain things… like your magic.”

The white alicorn instantly picked up on the nervousness in Dave’s voice. “What is it?” She sat up and wrapped a pure white wing around her husband.

“Well I was wondering if… seeing as we are married and we want to do everything any normal couple would do…” Dave licked his dry lips as he glanced at his hands. “I wouldn’t mind if we considered turning me into a pony, it would make this whole thing easer and you know the spell from last time but this time I won’t resist or turn back.”

Celestia’s smile faded as her mouth slowly opened in shock, “Oh Dave… you would do that to make me happy?”

“Of course,” Dave stared at the ground. “I would do anything to make you happy.”

“Then stay the way you are,” Celestia smiled as Dave looked into her magenta eyes. “I fell in love with Dave the human, not even the entire of Equestria can make me change my mind.”

Dave smiled as he placed his hand gently on Celestia’s cheek, “And it would take the entire universe to stop me from being by your side.”

Celestia wrapped her wings completely around her and Dave, shielding them from the room, the only things visible were each other. “I promise to love you forever, to hold you close when you are sad, to dance with you when you are happy and to be eternally yours.”

“I vow to make you smile every day, to make sure I remind you of how beautiful you are.” Dave kissed Celestia’s lips as his fingers rubbed her soft white fur, his arms pulling the mare onto him as he fell back onto the bed. “And I swear I will make you the happiest mare in the world.”

The next day…

Matrix and Night Stalker were sat in the barracks, Night Stalker was carefully trimming some of the purple hairs from his helmet until nothing was crooked or bent. Matrix however was tapping his hoof on the table, his teeth holding a pen as he stared at the parchment in front of him.

“Just be honest,” Night Stalker sighed. “If you want to see her again, then write it.”

“Yeah thanks for the advice,” Matrix groaned as he continued to tap the table. “If I was in the Noire Wings then I could sound even cooler, Rainbow loves cool stuff.”

“The Noire Wings aren’t that great,” Night Stalker rubbed his eyes as the tapping of hooves on wood began to drive him insane. “Buy some Wonderbolt tickets and send them as well.”

Matrix paused his tapping, “Would that work?”

“So long as your tapping is far away from me then I don’t care,” Night Stalker continued his task before he froze. “And I just realized how that could be a sexual reference.”

“Why would I need tickets as well? Aren’t the Noire Wings that good?” Matrix dropped his pen as he rested his head on the table. “I heard the same about the Burning Spears, Celestia’s private guards.”

Strong Shield appeared beside the two Pegasus and caused the newest recruit to jump in surprise. “Because the Noire Wings and Burning Spears are both meant to defend the princesses.”

“Isn’t there another group?” Matrix asked as he yawned, not noticing Flux appear on his other side. “AH! You have to stop that.”

“Well I believe Dave may be eligible for his own task force now,” Flux hummed. “Cadence turned down a small group.”

Matrix smiled happily whilst Night Stalker merely paused his current task. “And what would this group do?” The more experienced guard asked.

“Well the Stone Hooves believe in an old saying,” Strong Shield looked to Flux.

“A good defence is sometimes a good offence,” The Pegasus finished. “We can provide extra training, and the intel and you provide results.”

Matrix smiled happily, “You mean spies?”

“Sort of,” Flux smirked at the rookies’ enthusiasm. “It will be small, we think you both are good candidates, we are getting your unicorn friend and Strong Shield already has another in mind.”

“Hang on,” Matrix held up his hooves. “Fix It?”

As Strong Shield nodded both the pegasi guards sighed and placed a hoof over their eyes. “He handled himself when he had to defuse the bomb, you can blame him if the silent approach ever goes wrong.”

“Sounds good to me,” Matrix smirked before a pair of small metal plates were placed onto the table in front of him and Night Stalker. The both leaned forward to see two crossed swords over a fire was engraved into the metal.

“You want in then you have to attach this to your armour by tonight,” Strong Shield and Flux both left the armoury as Matrix and Night Stalker exchanged uneasy looks.

Matrix picked up one of the small emblems and let out a small sigh, “Well I suppose a life full of danger and adventure would be cool.”

“I suppose we would get involved in a lot of Prince Dave’s mess as well,” Night Stalker groaned.

“So very dangerous,” Matrix looked up at Night Stalker as they both slowly nodded. “Bet you have never seen a recruit become an elite as fast as I have.”

Matrix eagerly ran to fetch his armour as Night Stalker was already lining up the new emblem beside his Noire Wings emblem.

The next day…

“Left a little,” Adamas sighed happily as he stretched across the runway. Battering Ram was mumbling angrily as he stomped his hooves onto the dragon’s back.

Luna was flying in the air above the castle when she noticed the dragon receiving the massage from the navy earth pony. As she gently descended, she noticed an annoyed expression across Battering Ram’s face.

“What is going on?” The princess asked as she landed beside Adamas’ head.

“I lost a bet,” Battering Ram growled. “Now I have to massage this overgrown gecko.”

Adamas smirked, “You shouldn’t think so negatively about things, I knew that nothing bad would happen at the wedding.”

“You bet on my sister’s wedding?” Luna gasped. “How dare you!”

“Hey I kept an eye on the changelings and Adamas had his teeth bared,” Battering Ram held up his hooves in innocence. “We were betting on if the cake would fall over or something like that.”

“Oh,” Luna calmed down slightly before an even larger from grew on her face. “Changelings?”

Adamas allowed Battering Ram to step down from his back before stretching, “I really need to see how my apprentices are doing.” The diamond dragon flapped his wings and took to the sky as he smiled down at the glaring Battering Ram. “Tell Dave to whistle if he ever needs anything.”

Battering Ram looked back to the princess to see her snarling up at him, “Chrysalis and Larva came to watch, and I made sure that if they so much as blinked then I would deal with them.”

Luna hummed before nodding slowly, “I suppose that it was better to know where they were rather than having to wonder.”

“Anyway, you will have to excuse me Princess Luna but Odio asked me to dress up as one of the four horses of the apocalypse, or something like that.” Battering Ram sighed as his head dropped, “I really have to stop gambling.”

The princess of the night hid her smile behind her hoof as Battering Ram sulked into the castle, the alicorn waited until he was gone before flying up and back towards her tower, enjoying the warm breeze as she eventually made it to her balcony.

A small stack of paperwork and letters were on her desk, she pushed them aside as she began to write a letter for her sister.

Dear Celestia and Dave

I hope your honeymoon is going well so far, everything is fine here so don’t worry about anything. Adamas said that Dave can whistle for him whenever he needs him although I am sure Dave won’t need him.

Anyway I hope I haven’t interrupted anything and I can’t wait to hear how your honeymoon went.

Love Luna

P.S. This is for Dave.

Luna kissed the bottom of the letter and left an indigo kiss mark on the paper before placing it into an envelope and using her magic to send the letter to her sister and lover. The alicorn let out a long yawn before removing her regalia and dragging herself into her bed.

Meanwhile…

Dave rubbed the small paper cut on his face as Celestia read the letter that had magically appeared and flew into his face. “Who is that from?”

“Luna, she sends her love to you by the way,” Celestia smiled as she placed the letter beside the bed and returned her hooves around her lover’s neck. “Now where were we?”

Dave smiled as he kissed Celestia, “I believe that we just passed the forty eight hour mark.”

“We are getting good at this,” Celestia smiled as Dave used a finger to brush aside some of her mane from her face, the sweat caused some of her usually flowing mane to stick to her fur. “I hope you enjoyed yourself as well.”

The human nodded, “Oh very much so, just being in your hooves is enough.”

“Should we go for dinner in a bit?” Celestia looked at the clock beside the bed. “We can have a short nap, get washed then have a nice meal.”

“Sounds like a plan,” Dave kissed Celestia’s nose as he rolled off the princess and allowed her to snuggle close to him. “So what type of occasion would it take for us to try and push the record up to three days of pure love and bliss?”

Celestia hummed, “We will have to see won’t we?”

“I suppose,” Dave closed his eyes as he felt Celestia’s warm nose rub against his neck. The princess fell asleep quickly but kept herself as close to her husband as she could. Dave opened his eyes slightly to look at his sleeping wife, a smile crept across his lips as he whispered. “I love you.”

The sleeping Celestia smiled as she squeezed Dave and nuzzled closer against him. Dave rested his face close to Celestia’s, sharing breaths with her until he soon followed her example and fell asleep clutching the love of his life.

“Did you know that one million people under the age of eighteen go missing every year in the UK and America?” One girl asked her friends as she sat scrolling through a webpage on her IPhone.

One of her shorter friends snorted, “Yeah, and only a tiny amount go through the thing TV shows us.”

“I know TV likes to spruce things up a bit but it is still interesting,” The first girl rolled her eyes. “Like some of these are just strange, like this one guy in England apparently disappeared without a trace… I mean how does that even happen?”

“Is there a picture?” The short friend asked as she walked over to look at the webpage. “Dave Shultz? He looks nice but he is more Sarah’s type.”

The third girl who had been silent looked up from her book and stared at her friends, “What are you both talking about now?” Sarah wasn’t given an answer as the phone was shoved in her face and the picture of a slim, brown haired teen was shown to her. “Is he a fan of The Beatles?”

“Aww come on,” The small friend pouted. “This was a few months ago, you like the whole adventure genre and this would be one heck of a story if you saved him from his kidnappers and you both fell in love.”

“You aren’t thinking too much are you?” Sarah sighed. “He is from England, we are in America, see the distance?”

The first friend rolled her eyes as she scrolled down to try and find details about the missing person, “Why would someone advertise a magician on this page? It is so inappropriate!”

Sarah was dragged from her book again as she also looked at the phone and saw a magician snapping his fingers and a coconut appeared in his hand, which he then peeled to reveal cotton candy on the inside.

“That makes my head hurt,” The small friend complained. “What is he wearing anyway? One golden gauntlet, a brown waistcoat and… is he wearing socks with sandals?”

“No one sock with a sandal and one hiking boot,” Sarah sighed. “Very chaotic if you ask me.”

The small friend giggled, “Well everyone asks you for everything because you know everything!”

“I work hard, as should you,” Sarah rose an eyebrow to her friend.

“Apparently he isn’t on Google but the ad says that he is coming here next year,” The first friend sighed. “Doesn’t your brother come back about that time?”

Sarah nodded, “He has been away for so long.”

“Is he single? I like military guys,” The short friend joked. “Besides you will be busy saving your prince.”

“My brother is three years older than me,” Sarah frowned. “Besides, how would I find that guy if he has disappeared off the face of the Earth?”

As the girls continued to talk, the magician from the advert hovered far above the ground as he chuckled. “Don’t worry, when the time comes… Everypony will be wondering where that buffoon and his precious princesses have gone.”

The magician snapped his fingers and vanished in a flash of light.

Author's Note

Thank you all for all the likes, faves, follows and comments you have given me over the course of this story. I hope the third and final one will be the best of the previous two and I can't thank you all enough for everything.

-CyanFoxtrot

P.S. Did I mention thanks?

P.P.S. Sequel is up. Unexplored Worlds. Just in case you wanted to read some more.

Chapter 1

The brown hair therapist removed his glasses as he rubbed his hazel eyes “So let me get this straight” He groaned as he put his clipboard and pen down. “You took a human from Earth, used some of your powers to trick the five of the six elements of harmony into falling in love with him,” he picked up his writing equipment in preparation to write down some more notes.

The teenager sat up as he rubbed his shaggy, jet black hair “Well it didn’t last forever, I reversed it later on but only three ended up hating him” His red eyes scanned the boring room.

The room was lit by a large chandelier that rested above a large glass table, the walls were hidden behind bookshelves that were similarly hidden by old and frail books. The chair the therapist sat on was made from varnished wood and was padded with dull green leather. The sofa the boy was resting on was made from a luxurious red fabric.

The therapist jotted down a few notes “So you revealed yourself as the spirit of hatred and you went to this…” The therapist looked back through his notes to refresh his memory “Equestria, to exact revenge on the princesses.”

“Yes that didn’t turn out as I originally hoped but in the end I believe that everypony got what they deserved” The teen chuckled as his eyes stared at the dull brown roof “I still can’t believe that Celestia fell for that human.”

The therapist nodded as he reread his notes again “This human… Dave” his eyes darted to the patient as he shuddered “He somehow changed your original plan of killing all life and you ended up killing only him… why?”

The teen laughed “Dave…” he sighed in wonder “He had a very passionate relationship with the princess of the sun, she returned his feelings so I took the opportunity to deal damage where it hurt an immortal goddess”

“You stole her one true love” The therapist had to give credit to the boy’s thinking, “so she would live forever behind emotional barriers that would never fall” He shook his head “But she was pregnant wasn’t she?”

“Oh yeah I almost forgot” The boy chuckled “Humans have a magical resistance so when Dave and Celestia got busy, Celestia got pregnant” His smile widened “Having a living reminder that you are alone… now that is punishment”

The therapist took a sip of water before placing his glass back down on the small desk beside him “What was it the princesses did to you again?”

“I was first created through the hate as they used the elements of harmony against discord, I was… young” His smile faded as it turned to a frown “I put thoughts in Princess Luna’s head that slowly drove her mad… but before she changed she still had time to help Celestia send me into space”

“You spent just over a thousand years in space, only to come across Dave” The therapist hummed “No wonder you thought she ruined your life,” his pen scribbled across the paper as he wrote some more notes

The boy sighed as he scratched his head “yeah it was all going so well apart from one thing” He looked over the sofa at the therapist “Dave happened to become best buddies with me” he groaned as he fell back onto the spongy sofa “That coupled with the fact Celestia’s child deserves a father made Dave’s life more important than it should have been”

“So what happened to Dave after he died in the explosion?” The therapist put his pen down for a moment as he rubbed his upper-lip

“When me and Dave were bonded I gave him some neat stuff, strength, healing and even at one point a form of magic of his own” The teen rolled his eyes “But I had to leave Equestria so I made a final adjustment… to let Dave absorb all the energy from the explosion and live on in a spirit form until he could regain his physical body”

The therapist looked at his clock and saw that night was fast approaching, but his curiosity made him lean forwards “So how long would it take Dave to return to a physical form?”

The teen shrugged “I don’t know, all I know is that the baby was due in four months” The boy chuckled “I came to Earth three and a half months ago” his smile grew “That gives Dave about two weeks to get back to normal… is”

The therapist stopped writing notes as he looked at the top of his sheet “Oh I haven’t asked… what is your name?” He held his pen to the small box as the boy smirked

“My name is Odio” his red eyes swirled in delight as he crossed his legs and relaxed against the sofa

Celestia sighed as she sat down on the golden chair, rubbing her enlarged mid-section with a sad smile. The last few months had been hard, especially the one morning she woke up to a noticeable size increase. Luna had been reassuring by taking on more work or helping her older sister do some of the previously simple tasks like putting on some of her royal regalia

The princess of the sun originally isolated herself from the world three and a half months ago, when she saw her companion give his life to save hers and their child’s. Two months go she finally came out of her room and took up her normal duties. One month ago, she set about the funeral arrangements of her late lover and went public about her pregnancy.

Now Celestia sat at the long marble table that sat in the middle of the grand dining hall. The windows were heavily decorated with stained glass and the walls were made from a pure white marble. The plate Celestia ate from had a golden rim and held a generous proportion on fruit and veg

The large wooden door opened to reveal her younger sister. Her flowing mane sparkled like stars in the sky whilst her soft light blue eyes moved to look at Celestia. “How are you this evening?” she asked as she sat down at the other end of the table

“I’m well” Celestia sighed “So is this one” She smiled as she stroked her belly again “He kicked this morning” her smile lasted a few more minutes before it finally faded again. Luna noticed this straight away and began to divert the conversation

“I have gotten in contact with Adamas again” Luna smiled to the chef that brought her food before she continued “He has started an embassy”

Celestia hummed “Adamas? The diamond dragon?” the white alicorn smiled “Why would he set up an embassy?” She started to eat her food that had been sat in front of her for several minutes

“Well dragons can survive in most environments and can traverse miles of distances with ease” Luna looked up from her food to smile at Celestia “Probably so they can negotiate with multiple groups in short spaces of time”

“So how has it gone for them?” Celestia knew Luna was just trying to cheer her up but her mind still weighed heavily on Dave

Luna nodded “It has been good so far, in one of the coming weeks they are going to visit the gryphons” she swallowed a mouthful of her food before continuing “he suggested that one of us should come along”

Celestia tapped the lump on her belly “I doubt I could travel for a while” She smiled as Luna nodded, “That reminds me, has Nurse Redheart settled into her new quarters?”

Luna nodded “Yes she is very grateful that you made her the royal nurse… the first we have ever had at least” After tapping her chin in thought, the dark alicorn laughed slightly “I suppose after all those scans she helped you with, she can’t just stop”

“Yes I suppose she has been taken along for a ride” Celestia sighed as her mind began to wander again. Her attention was brought back as the instinct to lower the sun filled her body. She did so without paying attention and her sister across the room brought the moon to replace the bright orb

The princess of the night looked at her big sister with a smile, her smile dipped as Celestia’s eyes began to shake and she clutched her pregnant stomach. She groaned in pain before she took a few deep breaths. Luna frantically rushed to her sister’s side

“Are you ok?” She asked in a panic but was mildly reassured when Celestia nodded. She remained by her sister’s chair as Celestia took a few more breaths

Celestia stared down at her belly with a smirk “I think it jabbed me with its horn” She chuckled “Did Nurse Redheart ever find out if it had wings as well?” her voice moved into a more worried tone. The arrival of an alicorn would be a great thing but due to the magical resistance humans posses, would the child suffer?

“I am afraid I don’t know” Luna sighed, “Nurse Redheart only made the evaluation that alicorns must only mate in emergencies…” As Luna talked, Celestia rolled her eyes at the hundredth time of hearing this information “So alicorn’s can mate with almost anything and the child grows at a stunning speed”

Celestia yawned heavily as her sister finished “I’m sorry Luna, it has been a rather long day” She smiled as her sister nodded in understanding “Is it ok if you can get the chefs to send up some chocolate?”

Luna giggled “Cravings again big sister?” her smile grew as Celestia sent her a threatening glare and a nod. The princess of the sun left the dining hall in the direction of her quarters, guards saluting her as she walked past. Luna finished her breakfast before attending to duties required of the princess of the night

As Celestia entered her quarters, she used her magic to remove her golden regalia and place them on her large desk that was unusually clear of paperwork. She climbed onto her giant white bed that was adorned in her cutie mark that resembled the sun. Celestia laid down, resting her head down on the soft pillow.

She relaxed as the bed supported her sleeping position and allowed her to be completely limp. The only sound she could hear was that of her own breathing. The rhythmic rise and fall of her chest did not even move the bed covers enough to make a noise.

The serenity was broken by the sound of something tapping the glass on her balcony window. Her eyes shot open as she slowly turned to look at the glass balcony doors. Luna certainly would not use the balcony in this way and the guards would not let anypony near

Her eyes finally reached the window, the sky outside was covered in stars as the clouds were being removed by pegasi weather teams. The pegasi themselves didn’t seem right but her attention focused in on the being standing on her balcony

“Dave?” She gasped as her horn glowed and her balcony doors swung open. The human walked in running a hand through his brown hair. His blue eyes nervously looked at the floor before his eyes met Celestia’s

He smiled weakly before whispering “Hey.”

Celestia’s beaming face suddenly dipped, her eyes dropped sadly as she sat in her bed “This is a dream isn’t it?” She looked up only to see Dave nod weakly. Her ears drooped as she held her bed covers nervously “So… am I to be haunted by your face forever?”

“Haunted?” Dave walked over and sat on the edge of the bed “so is seeing me again really that bad?” He sighed as he rested his head on his hand “And here I was thinking you would appreciate it”

Celestia looked at Dave, her eyes moved from disheartened to sympathetic “You know I would love to see you but… you died to save me” She rubbed her stomach affectionately “Besides, this one will never know what you looked like”

“So how long have I been… dead for?” Dave raised an eyebrow as he looked over and just noticed the pregnant belly the white alicorn was stroking “Oh… that long”

The princess smiled down at herself “I’m so sorry I drove you to sacrifice yourself” her smile weakened as she looked up at Dave “would you like to feel it?” She indicated to her pregnant belly and Dave merely looked in wonder

“If this is a dream then why are you letting me do something that has no meaning?” Dave looked at Celestia as she shook her head

“I don’t know” She sighed “I suppose I want to know what it feels like to have a normal relationship” She didn’t hold back as Dave moved over and his hand just hovered over the lump “It wont bite… unless this turns into a nightmare so be cautious”

Dave chuckled but silenced as his hand made contact with Celestia’s white fur “Wow” He whispered as he rubbed round in small circles “So when is it due?”

“Any day now” Celestia smiled as Dave rested his head on the small pile of bed covers that accumulated as Celestia sat up

Dave glared at the roof “Do you want me to be there?” His eyes never left the ceiling

“Of course I do” Celestia sighed as she placed her hoof in Dave’s hand “But even with all my power I can’t bring you back” She smiled as Dave gently rubbed her hoof with his thumb “so there is no point is wishing for the impossible”

Dave smirked “Not impossible” he stood up and hurried for the balcony “Just very unlikely it will turn out as planned” He stopped in his tracks as he dashed back to the bed and gave Celestia a quick kiss on the cheek. He then ran out onto the balcony before diving off the edge

Celestia rolled her eyes back to her belly “I hope you can figure out how I fell for that reckless being” She giggled as the child inside kicked in agreement

Meanwhile…

An amber earth pony with light brown, messy hair with a shovel for his cutie mark eagerly ran to the entrance to the small cave. “Oh hurry up ya lazy fool!” He shouted to a slightly larger earth pony of the same colouration except his fur was darker and had a pickaxe as his cutie mark

The larger pony glared as he carried two large saddlebags full of digging equipment and spare bags. “I’m here already,” he growled as he put down the bags “Now are ya ABSOLUTELY sure this time? Last cave we stopped at had an angry bear!”

“Now come on” the smaller one chuckled as he quickly wiped a bead of nervous sweat from his head “I can’t be wrong eleven times in a row” He confidently walked into the cavern and looked around the dull sandy floor. His gaze stopped at a small green triangle that poked out of the ground “Ah Ha finally!” he cheered as he pulled the trench coat out of the ground “Made from the scales of a dragon elder” He chuckled as his companion inspected it

“This must be worth a fortune” He smiled happily “If there are any body parts, I am sure that the princesses would want something to bury” He went outside and put the trench coat with the bags before returning to the cave “Anything else?”

The smaller pony scanned the floor before spotting a small dirty bone. He plucked it out of the ground and waved it to his friend “Ha Ha look! I have hands!” He joked and laughed with his friend, but his friend stopped laughing and his jaw dropped as his gaze moved past his friend

The pony holding the hand slowly turned his head to see a skull hanging a few inches away, it looked at the hand before lowering menacingly. The pony dropped the hand and backed away to his friend’s side. The skull swayed as a spine was attached and ribs rose from the ground. The hand flipped the right way as an arm joined it and lifted into its place alongside the body

The ponies slowly inched towards the exit, not before the human skeleton climbed out of the ground and marched towards them. They froze in fear as their sought after prize walked past them and over to their bags and retrieved its trench coat.

“Umm…” The ponies looked at each other as the skeleton looked back at them “Is it ok if we can go? I did something nasty in the cave” the larger one sniffed before glaring at his smaller friend in disgust

The skeleton shrugged before it walked in the direction of Canterlot

The larger pony watched as the skeleton walked away before slapping the smaller one pony over the head “You said that we could get rich doing this” He growled “But all that happened was you crapped yourself and released a zombie!”

“It wasn't a zombie, it would have tried to eat our brains is it was,” The smaller pony stated rolling his eyes at the bigger pony that merely shook his head

“Either way you would have been safe” he sighed before walking away, the smaller one in quick pursuit “So what now?”

The quicker one retrieved a map from the bag and scanned the notes scribbled across the front “Well there is a cave nearby… it looks like there should be lots of treasure there” He smiled enthusiastically as his companion rose an eyebrow

“How did ya figure that out from a map you found in a cookie jar?” He picked up his bags in preparation to travel

“There is a message that says ‘beware, eternal damnation’ above some skulls” he stood up and began to wander away. The large pony groaned as he reluctantly followed the dim adventurer

Chapter 8

Strong Shield occasionally poked Nox to receive a fit of giggles from the baby alicorn. The black unicorn finished his breakfast before continuing his simple activity of entertaining Nox

“So what do you think of him?” Strong Shield asked to the room, Nox tilted his head in confusion as he couldn’t see anypony else in the room

“Well he certainly is energetic” Flux smiled as she stepped out from behind the princess’ chair and sat next to Strong Shield “so I take it you want to know how Battering Ram and I survived?”

Strong Shield nodded “I left you both in a burning building, I left you under rubble and broke Battering Ram’s spine” His eye rolled over to the Pegasus “How come you both show up perfectly well?”

“Ram still had use of his front hooves, he pushed the rubble off me and dragged my unconscious body outside” Flux leaned back and pulled back a section of fur “And neither of us got away lightly” She sighed as she revealed the large burn marks across her body and at the base of her wings

Strong Shield shuddered as he looked away, his normally emotionless expression was briefly replaced with sadness and regret before returning to his natural seriousness “So where is Battering Ram?”

“He is not in the castle if that is what you mean” Flux used a wing to tickle Nox into a fit of laughter “I came back to talk with you alone”

Strong Shield used his magic to pull Nox out of Flux’s reach “I don’t want to talk, if you could show yourself out I would appreciate it” He avoided looking at the Pegasus as she sighed

“If we don’t get this out the way now then the later encounters are going to be more awkward” She moved her head close to Strong Shield but he moved his head away

“I would have preferred to think I killed you than see you again” Strong Shield glared across at Flux “If you or Battering Ram try to do any harm, I will come for you and I will make sure you stay dead”

Flux gently shook her head “Well I extend an offer to you” She sat back in her chair “Battering Ram and I have found the vault that Puppetmaster talked about, we need the key”

“You aren’t getting it” Strong Shield spat “I will die protecting it and I will make sure it never opens that cursed box”

Flux opened her mouth to respond but a sly grin spread across her face “You know what the vault is too” her smile grew as her voice lowered to a whisper “You looked inside”

Strong Shield stood, his face tightened in anger as he turned to the Pegasus “Leave… now” his eye focused in on the Pegasus as she stood up

“See you around” She winked as her wing tickled under Nox’s chin “If you decide to find out where the vault is now then go ahead, we will get the key from you before you get near” The Pegasus walked past the unicorn and disappeared again

Strong Shield angrily slammed his hoof into the table as he dropped his head. Nox nervously walked over and rubbed his head against the unicorn. Strong Shield looked up and smiled at the alicorn

“I wish she wasn’t so sneaky” Strong Shield chuckled as he rubbed Nox’s mane “But unfortunately your dad is going to have a rough time… after what he is going through right now”

Meanwhile…

Celestia climbed out of bed as she hurried to answer the door, Dave’s begging for her to ignore it fell of deaf ears as Celestia neared the door. The white alicorn quickly made herself presentable before opening the golden door to reveal a Pegasus guard

The guard saluted and quickly noticed Dave sitting up in the bed before moving his eyes away “S-sorry for interrupting your majesty” The guard nervously stammered “But the dragon ambassador has arrived and is waiting on the runway”

Celestia nodded “Thank you for bringing this to our attention” The princess waited for the guard to leave before closing the door. She walked back over to the bed and nuzzled Dave “I’m afraid we have to cut this short”

“Why?” Dave groaned as he reluctantly climbed out of bed and grabbed his dragonscale trench coat. Dave followed Celestia as she put on her regalia and stepped out of the bedroom and began descending the steps into the main castle

“We should get Nox and Strong Shield” Celestia waited for Dave to finish buttoning up his coat before continuing towards the dining hall. As the princess rounded the corner, she ducked as a grey blur raced over her and collided with Dave’s face

Dave pulled the grey ball off his head and spat a few hairs out of his mouth before looking at the moving object in his hands. The grey blur turned out to be Nox, he was flapping his wings as he reached his hooves out to grab Dave

Strong Shield rushed around the corner before breathing a sigh of relief “Nox is certainly a good flyer for his age” he followed Celestia and Dave as they made their way to the runway “So I heard a certain ambassador arrived”

Celestia moved her head near to Nox so he could clamber into her mane “Yes we are going to see him now, Dave has the duty of showing him around Ponyville”

“WHOA!” Dave held his hands up “I never agreed to show an ambassador around a town full of ponies that think I am dead” he rolled his eyes as Celestia nuzzled him

“You can get some clothes while you are out” Celestia smiled “besides I am sure everypony would love to see Nox”

Dave chuckled as Nox leapt out of Celestia’s mane and relaxed in Dave’s arms “Yeah I’m sure it will be a quiet visit” He looked over at the unicorn that hummed in thought “Are you coming dad?”

“Huh? Oh… no I am not coming, I have some business to attend to and not to mention I have to start getting in shape again… four months sleeping has made me slightly sluggish” The black unicorn returned to his thoughts as the group reached the runway

Dave rolled his eyes as he looked around the courtyard “Where is this ambassador?” he cradled Nox as he continued walking to the centre of the runway “So what is this ambassador like? One of those types that would rather see profit than peace? I bet that OW!”

Dave came to a sudden stop as his face bashed against something hard. Nox flew back to Celestia as Dave rubbed his nose before looking at what he collided into. He looked at a reflection of himself, the surface of the mirror seemed to be made of pieces that were joined perfectly together

“What the hell?” Dave gawped as his eyes travelled up, only to show that the mirror towered above him and it had arms, legs, wings, claws and a large mouth full of very sharp teeth

“I don’t recall thinking about profit” The dragon smiled as Dave gawped again

“Adamas?” Dave chuckled and gasped at the same time “When did you go from green scales to diamond?” He tapped the diamond scales again to make sure

“When you took Odio into the sky and exploded…” Adamas looked up at the sky before looking back at Dave, his emerald eyes still clearly visible against his reflective scales “I threw myself in front of the resulting shockwave to protect the princesses and Strong Shield”

Dave smiled as he admired the new scales that adorned Adamas’ body “Well I am sure the elder is proud of you” his smile faded as Adamas sighed and his head dipped

“The elder… passed away soon after I returned to him” Adamas smiled again “I was given his previous task of guiding the enlightened” the diamond dragon looked back at Dave

“Oh…” Dave scratched the back of his head “I’m sorry about the elder” Dave felt a sudden chill come from the trench coat he was wearing. After all, it was made from the elder’s scales “So why are we going to Ponyville?”

“Well as you have probably heard, I am an ambassador and I try my hardest to make sure that peace prevails” He chuckled slightly at the slightly rehearsed line “But I have a few days until the peace talks begin, you are back so I thought I would take a break by watching you deal with coming back from the dead”

“Thanks” Dave said sarcastically as a smile crept across his face “so who are these peace talks between?”

“The changelings and the gryphons” Adamas rolled his eyes “The changelings want to be able to cross the border without getting eaten”

“Ah… the changeling maggots” Dave shuddered at the memory of the three-foot maggots attempting to eat him alive “So basically the changelings want reduced border control?”

“Yes, the gryphon union responsible for border patrol just happens to provide a lot of jobs for the gryphon population in general” Adamas took a few paces back so he could lay down and rest his head near Dave “So naturally the gryphons have said no”

“I could see why tensions are high” Dave sat down as well as Nox nervously hid behind Celestia’s flowing mane “The gryphons must think of the changelings as another source of food though, I have seen three eat one of the maggots before”

“Yes and the changelings aren’t particularly happy that their future workers are turned into snacks by any hungry birds” Adamas moved his eye to look at Nox “So I see that the young prince has been born… he reminds me of you”

Dave chuckled “Thanks” He leaned over and looked at Nox “Come on Nox, it is alright, it is just another of daddy’s weird friends”

Adamas used his tail to poke Dave for that last comment “It is mildly true little one, I am a friend of your father” he looked back at Dave before looking at Nox “I burnt him alive once but that is in the past”

“You made me look ridiculous in front of my friends” Dave growled, “I still haven’t forgotten about my nude experience surrounded by ponies that were hypnotized into loving me”

“I gave you chests that were full of bits and gems” The dragon snorted “Besides… you made yourself look silly by yourself”

Dave opened his mouth to respond but was stopped as Nox hid behind him, eyes full of fear and body trembling. Dave gave him a reassuring smile before lifting him and showing him to Adamas “Adamas meet Noxporta… or Nox for short”

The diamond dragon extended a sharp claw “Nice to meet you” Adamas smiled warmly

Nox stared at the huge beast before squirming back into Dave’s chest, his face pressed into his stomach to hide from the large monster

Dave laughed as Adamas retracted his claw and shuffled awkwardly on the spot “I think it is a little early for him to fully comprehend what you are” Dave smirked as Nox peeked back at Adamas before hiding again

“Well he better get adjusted soon because we are leaving” Adamas sighed as he stood up and stretched his wings “I need a good fly after that business between the diamond dogs and the buffalo” he rolled his tongue as if it contained a horrid taste before looking back at Dave

“No time like the present I guess” Dave walked back to Celestia “When will I see you again?”

“Soon, tonight maybe” Celestia hummed “The house you had just outside Ponyville should still be there” she planted a kiss on Nox’s head “Now you be a good boy and stay with your father” she looked back at Dave and gave him a kiss that made Strong Shield look away “And I will see you tonight”

Dave smiled “I’ll hold you to that” He teased as he walked back over to Adamas “So when are we leaving?” his answer came in the form of two large claws plucking him from the ground and the dragon taking to the air

Nox gasped and held his father close as they reached a dizzying height. Dave looked around, enjoying the view of the entire city of Canterlot and the surrounding area that was not concealed by clouds. Adamas chuckled before setting his sights on the far away town of Ponyville

Chapter 26

Dave stormed down the corridor as Odio flew behind him, “Listen I’m sorry I let slip that Bloodwing and Roland die” he smiled as Dave stopped and gawped at him “I didn’t mention Roland did I?”

“No, you didn’t” Dave groaned as he stormed away again, the fog didn’t hesitate before he moved into Dave’s path “Listen, I know you mean well but in all honesty… you are terrible at being good”

“That’s why I had to blow you up to be nice” Odio sighed as he floated above Dave’s head and followed him “I can’t be just nice, it has to be mixed with something evil”

Dave chuckled as the fog looked disappointed at itself “Is that personal choice or does fate have a major problem with you?”

Odio laughed “Fate means that I can’t be nice, you always get into trouble, Celestia can never be happy and Luna will always lose those she cares about” his smile faded as Dave glared “It’s true, one of those will have be forced to happen or they all happen at some point”

Dave turned his head away from the black fog as he reached the throne room, two unicorn guards simply nodded as Dave quietly opened the door and slipped inside guarded the golden doors. Odio smiled to the guards as they started snarling at him

“I’ll get the door myself then” Odio sighed as he began floating through the bottom of the door and reappearing at Dave’s side. He reduced his size so he could hide behind the human as he saw the room was full of ponies and Celestia was sat on her golden throne

Odio slowly floated to a corner of the room and travelled to the roof, spreading himself throughout the shadows so he was less likely to be spotted by any ponies that looked at his hiding place

Celestia smiled at the farmer that was bowing at the bottom of the stairs that lead up to her throne, her eyes were full of sympathy as the farmer seemed to be crying. The crowd all sat quietly as they awaited the word of their princess

“I will send a small group of guards to take care of the manticore that is prowling your land” Celestia’s smile grew as the farmer thanked her and the crowd burst into applause. The white princess held up her hoof and the crowd descended into silence “Thank you all my little ponies for attending this round of hearings, I hope I have proven that Equestria is still a safe and happy place to live”

Dave leaned against the wall as he smiled, his smile continued even as Odio whispered some insults to himself. The crowd stamped their hooves in applause as Celestia smiled and waited for them to quieten again

“As you all know, tensions have been high between the Gryphons and the changelings” Celestia waited as the sudden buzz of muttering grew louder at the mention of the changelings “But I am happy to inform you that there is peace and that we are all safe again”

The crowd cheered even louder as they heard the news and some even began hugging each other thankfully. The guards that stood at the edge of the room managed to quickly nod to each other, not in joy, but in relief that they did not have to be on duty as a war raged at Equestria’s borders

Celestia smiled as she allowed the horde of happy ponies to cheer and dance. She looked over the crowd that varied from colts that admired the guards armour to grannies that had been showing up to all the castle events since their were fillies

As her eyes moved to the back of the room, Celestia smiled as she spotted Dave at the back of the hall, his smile made hers grow as she held up her hoof again. The crowd stopped cheering as they looked up at their princess again, their cheers turned to muttering before they all fell silent once again

“Some further news has also developed in the past few days, a few of you may know of this news but for everypony else to know I will say it now” She stood as she lifted a wing and revealed Nox was behind her the entire time she was passing judgements “My son was born several days ago and we know that his father sacrificed himself to protect the castle and all of Canterlot four months ago”

The crowd’s smiles faded as they lowered their heads in respect, the few that wore hats promptly removed them as they covered their chests. Dave’s smile turned to a small gasp of surprise when he saw how many ponies actually care about his death and how many respected his sacrifice

“But I have some news that will make this one of the best days ever” Celestia smiled as Nox stepped beside her, the crowd raised their heads as they listened closely “my late lover and father to Prince Nox has returned and is with us this morning”

The crowd gasped as they began muttering loudly, their faces ranged from shock to confusion, only one mare seemed unsurprised as she looked at the back of the room and directly at Dave. The human looked around the crowd and made eye contact with the lavender mare

“Flux” Dave whispered angrily as he forced himself to smile and look away from the smug Pegasus. Odio glanced at him as he felt the sudden rise in hatred from the human, his eyes scanned the crowd for anything unusual before returning to his hiding spot on the roof

Celestia held out her hoof to Dave as her attention moved away from the crowd “Won’t you join me Dave?” She smiled as Dave nodded and began walking down the central path reserved for ponies coming to speak to the princess

Cheers erupted again as the crowd saw Dave walking down the path, their screams and cheers made him smile and give a cheeky wave as he approached Celestia. His attention also drifted from the crowd as he reached the pure white steps

Dave walked up the steps as he reached out and took Celestia’s hoof, gently stroking it with his thumb. He stopped as he stood at the top of the stairs, giving a wink to Nox as he turned and faced Celestia, the crowd all leaned forwards in anticipation

Dave and Celestia both moved forwards and hugged each other, the crowd let out a collective “Awww” as they saw the happy couple

“Is this just a way to make the public happy?” Dave whispered into Celestia’s ear as he ran his fingers through her flowing mane

Celestia sighed “I wanted everypony to know that you are back and it just so happens that they quite like the idea of me in a relationship with a family” she whispered in return

“Oh yeah?” Dave smiled as he released Celestia “Well here is something that will really get them going” Dave pulled Celestia’s head to his as he gave her a powerful kiss, the kind that is for show rather than pleasure

The crowd of ponies gasped before cheering again, a few wolf-whistles came from a few stallions as they applauded Dave. Some of the mares smiled as they nuzzled their special somepony, their eyes moved away from the princess and the human as they smiled to their mate

Nox rolled his eyes as he flew onto Dave’s head and covered the kissing with one of his wings, gaining a few ponies to go “Aww” and a few others to laugh. His wing was removed as Dave finished kissing and grabbed the colt on his head

Celestia kissed Nox on his head as she turned to the crowd “I wish you all the best in the endeavours you may have in life but know this…” Celestia stepped closer to Dave as she wrapped a wing around her family “the things that are worth the most are always the hardest to achieve, so do your best as I know you all can do and we will all be happy”

The crowd cheered as Celestia, Dave and Nox began their way down and towards the doors, occasionally stopping to greet a few ponies. Celestia and Nox responded to bows with small nods whilst Dave casually shook hooves

Flux clapped her hooves gently as a black unicorn stepped beside her, she smiled as she looked at the scared eye beside her “Do you remember when we were like that?” She sighed with regret “Why did that have to end?”

“You betrayed me and forced me to wear a disguise for most of my life,” Strong Shield snorted, “If I hadn’t been struck by a changeling I would have never had an excuse to get rid of that stupid eye patch”

The lavender Pegasus smirked “You chose to wear a magical eye patch rather than tell everypony the truth?”

“My scar would have raised questions” Strong Shield clicked his tongue “I don’t feel comfortable telling everypony how the love of my life cut out my eye” he glared at Flux with his good eye “shame I couldn’t cut you off completely”

Flux smiled as she stepped closer to Strong Shield “Love is love, even you can’t suppress that feeling” she rested her head on Strong Shield’s shoulder as the crowds were slowly being ushered out by the guards

“My love stopped me from snapping your neck” Strong Shield spat as he stepped away from Flux “But you showed that your loyalty to Puppetmaster surpassed your love for me”

Flux and Strong Shield stood staring at each other as the final remnants of the crowd left, leaving them alone in the large hall. The guards nodded to Strong Shield before leaving the room as well, closing the door behind them

The door opened again as Battering Ram stepped in, he closed the door behind him as he smiled at Strong Shield “I can be sneaky when I want to” he chuckled as he walked over to a window and looked out over the city

“So I take it you are both here to intimidate or fight me” Strong Shield glanced between his former friends “Which is it? I haven’t got all day”

Battering Ram chuckled “We found it quite insulting that you tried to get us to believe that Project Harvest is inside the vault” his smile faded “You know that we wouldn’t activate it”

“You were more than willing to assist with Project Unity” Strong Shield spat as he snarled “And that would have involved having my brain removed and having my free will taken from me”

“You were the ideal candidate” Flux shuddered as she turned away “Battering Ram and I both tried to find another but we didn’t have time” the Pegasus took a breath to calm herself “I was happy when you broke out of your restraints”

Strong Shield rolled his eye “I preferred being a unicorn than a brain in a tin pony” he looked down at his hooves “Even though I lost my eye, I saw more than I ever had since then”

Battering Ram sighed “I am here to leave you with a warning, if we don’t get the key then we will start hurting Dave and his family” the huge earth pony tilted his head to Flux “She just wants to ask a few questions”

“Did you love any of the others?” Flux glared at Strong Shield as her eyes struggled to hold back tears “I know you slept with others since our… separation” she shuddered as Strong Shield smirked

“Jealous?” Strong Shield’s own face eventually dropped “After I thought I killed you, I left my love in that burning building, and Dave has been the only piece of compassion I have given in thirty two years”

Flux snarled as she leapt at Strong Shield, her snarl an inch from his cold stare “I want to know if you loved any of those mares that touched during your private life”

“During the Mercenary War, I slept with Zidindi the zebra” Strong Shield sighed, “she loved me, I felt nothing”

“What about the incident with the Frozen Tower?” Battering Ram rose an eyebrow “there was a windigo being used to generate an ice cannon or something and you happened to mate with a wildlife conservationist”

Strong Shield groaned, “She was a persistent one, I mated with her so I could advance on the cannon whilst she was still asleep in the tent”

“The Diamond Dogs and the Deep Cavern” Flux glared “the Diamond Dogs had dug a huge mine under Philadelphia and were planning to sink the city”

Strong Shield hummed “Yes, I admit that Quarry was an odd one” the unicorn chuckled as he looked at Battering Ram “Although she was more of a mare for you, very nice muscles”

Flux growled as she saw Strong Shield smile, knowing he loved the pain she was in “And what about Fleur de Lis?” her glare made Strong Shield turn serious again

“If I mated with her then she would give me the code to the safe that contained information on the Canterlot Mafia ring” He held his head high so he looked down at Flux “Just doing a guard’s duty”

“Yeah thirty years and you have had fun” Battering Ram shook his head in disgust “Flux never looked at anypony else but you”

Strong Shield sighed as he looked at Flux “I never loved anypony else but you, but unfortunately you betrayed me and tried to kill me” he stepped away from the mare “That is a bit hard to get over”

Flux bit her bottom lip as she turned away again “Give us the key or we will start taking drastic measures”

“I know where the vault is” Strong Shield sighed “The Trainyard was bought by Max Power… an alias for Battering Ram, I remember it well” he glanced at Battering Ram’s nod “I know that the Daedalus is stored there”

Flux and Battering Ram both glanced at each other before nodding “We will let you dwell on you options” Flux sighed, “Take the Daedalus to the vault, taking the key with you or you can expect Dave to start resenting you even more”

Strong Shield snarled at his old comrades as they left the room, leaving him alone. His eye moved to the ceiling as he spotted a small wisp of black fog “I take it you heard all that”

“Heard what?” Odio frowned “The part where you are basically the pony version of James Bond, the part about something called the Daedalus, the Borderlands rip off about a vault or the part where my best and only friend is being threatened?”

Strong Shield shook his head “It doesn't matter, I will make sure Dave is ok”

“I have played enough video games to know that anything called ‘Daedalus’ is never anything good” Odio’s glare narrowed as he floated closer to Strong Shield “And how come I have never heard of these ‘friends’ of yours that have been so influential on your life?”

Chapter 53

Dave walked into the barracks and was instantly greeted by nods from the guards that were off-duty. He checked the side rooms for any sign of Strong Shield but was met with nothing but tired ponies or empty rooms

“Argh, where the hell is he?” Dave scratched the back of his head as he stepped out of the secret entrance to Strong Shield’s bunker. Dave turned to see a charcoal Pegasus staring at him, his sudden appearance made Dave jump. “Jeez you kinda snuck up on me”

The Pegasus nodded, his red mane bouncing slightly, “I was aware when you screamed”

“I didn’t scream,” Dave frowned slightly. “Anyway do you know where my dad is?”

“I believe that he is on the training grounds with the new recruits,” the Pegasus continued to stare at Dave, his dark armour caught the human’s eye

“So are you a night guard then?” Dave chuckled, “I wouldn’t have thought that you would be awake at this time”

The guard nodded, “I serve as one of Princess Luna’s bodyguards during social outings”

“Alright, simple answers it is,” Dave muttered to himself. “So do you have a name?”

“Yes I am Lieutenant Night Stalker,” the guard saluted. “Is there anything else I can assist you with Prince Dave?”

The unwilling prince rolled his eyes, “No, I’m fine but I suppose it would be helpful if you could take me to the training area, it has been a while since I last went there”

“Yes sir!” Night Stalker turned and marched away, allowing Dave to follow alongside. “May I ask a question?”

“Go ahead,” Dave placed his hands in his pockets as he followed the night guard

“I heard that you are in a relationship with Princess Luna as well as engaged to Princess Celestia,” Night Stalker glanced at Dave before focusing his eyes forward again. “Is it true that you left Princess Luna before?”

Dave sighed, “She turned me down, and I won’t leave her anyway… if I can help it”

“Pardon sir? I didn’t catch that last bit,” Night Stalker looked over as Dave gained a smirk

“Just don’t worry, I won’t hurt your favourite princess’ feelings,” Dave stared at the Pegasus, his smile grew as the guard held his composure

Night Stalker aimed his gaze forwards again, “I am not allowed to have a favourite princess because it would affect my judgement as a guard”

“You definitely sound like my dad,” Dave chuckled as they reached the training area and stepped out to see a cream stallion hanging from the tree by his hind legs

Strong Shield was standing on the back of a white unicorn as he did press-ups. The drill sergeant sometimes bouncing every time the recruit made a grunt

“No weakness!” Strong Shield yelled at the back of the unicorn’s head. “And you fly boy! Get those wings moving, I want to see that concrete fly!”

Dave and Night Stalker both looked up to see a black and yellow Pegasus flap his wings as hard as he could. The trainee’s legs were tied to a large block of concrete that weighed him down, his mane dripping with sweat

“Strong Shield, Prince Dave is here to see you!” Night Stalker saluted, gaining the attention of everypony in the training ground

The cream pony suddenly dropped from the tree and his eyes widened at the appearance of royalty. “Prince? Excuse me your majesty but my name is Rich Kid!”

The posh pony galloped over, only to get his outstretched hoof grabbed and twisted back into his face. Punching himself in the nose with a loud crack, the Pegasus responsible then swept his black wing under the large body to drop the unicorn on his side

“Access denied!” Night Stalker smirked before coughing and returning to his saluted position. Strong Shield walked over and frowned at the Lieutenant

“Your performance just then… could have been faster,” Strong Shield hummed before turning to Dave. “Your son is certainly learning quite quickly… and from an unlikely source”

All the ponies and Dave looked to the back of the training grounds and saw Nox falling through one small wormhole and appearing out of another just above it, resulting in an endless drop

“Now you’re thinking with portals!” Odio laughed as Nox pointed his nose downwards and picked up even more speed

Dave rubbed his eyes, “Remind me to not let Odio teach my son any more video game references”

“Alright Nox, now here is a trick I like to call teabagging,” Odio formed a pair of legs with his fog but stopped as Dave jogged over and dispersed the fog with his arms. “Oh hello Dave, how are you?” Odio sneered

“Hey!” Nox opened his wings and used his magic to close the two wormholes. “Uncle Odio was going to show me something called a… Reaper?”

Dave shook his head, “Odio can you not teach my son about video games?”

“Why not?” Odio glared as he formed a fist within his fog

“Because I think that…”

“I’ve had enough of your disingenuous assertions!” Odio frowned as he shot the fist forward and punched Dave to the floor

Dave held a broken nose as he pushed himself to his feet, “Ow what THE HELL!”

“That was for not talking to me about you getting engaged to Celestia!” Odio narrowed his eyes again as he snorted. “Anything else you want to tell me?”

“I’m in a relationship with Luna?” Dave smiled as Odio’s eyes flared open and a bolt of red lightning raced through his fog. “So we good?”

Odio roared as his fog coated the ground in a dense black mist and lightning crackled from his body. “NOOOO! MY FRIEND HAS RESPONSIBILITIES!”

“I was going to propose a game of Team Fortress 2 tonight,” Dave smirked as Odio’s fog quickly receded and his eyes moved close to Dave’s face

“R-really?” Odio’s eyes formed love hearts. “Can I be a scout?”

Dave nodded, “anything you want!”

“Cool, BONK!” Odio punched Dave again. “Next time don’t get in relationships without letting me know and potentially ruin it for you!”

Strong Shield rolled his eye, “Alright take a five minute break, you can make the time up later when you are polishing every single piece of armour in the entire armoury”

Rich Kid and Tough Heart both groaned as they collapsed to the ground and began gasping for air. Each breath was embrace as their muscles screamed in agony. Matrix stopped flapping his wings and dropped to the ground, strangely finding the strength to remove the binds around his hooves

Strong Shield and Night Stalker marched over to the large fog whilst Matrix walked over to Dave, his wings hanging loosely to the floor as he watched Dave’s nose snap back into place. “Doesn’t that hurt?”

“Like a bitch but I’ve gotten used to it,” Dave sniffed as he wiped the blood from his nose, his eyes opened wider as he looked at the Pegasus. “Whoa! Is your name hornet?”

“What? No!” Matrix ran a hoof over his black stripes. “My name is Matrix and I am just here for guard training”

Dave stood up and offered his hand to the pony, “My name is Dave and I am the uhh… prince I suppose”

The Pegasus placed his hoof in the hand and shook it with a smile. “I never thought I would be shaking hooves with a prince this early in my career”

“You don’t have a career yet!” Strong Shield growled back at the trainee. “And until I say you can be a guard you will address everypony by their rank or status… especially Dave”

Matrix saluted before bowing to Dave, “My apologies Prince Dave”

“Don’t worry, I let my friends and the guards be less formal,” Dave winked before turning to allow Nox to jump into his arms. “So how have you been?”

“I’ve been great!” Nox turned his head to smile at Odio. “Uncle Odio taught me about some really weird creatures like these one green things that explode!”

Dave’s smile faded as he narrowed his eyes at the fog of hatred, “Creepers?”

“Yeah!”

Odio whistled innocently as he avoided Dave’s stare and instead decided to smile at the two dark ponies in front of him. “Hello moody, hello… other pony with a glare”

“I am Lieutenant Night Stalker,” the Pegasus frowned at the fog. “Does Princess Celestia know that you assault her husband?”

Odio grunted in response, “I assume you will write a letter?”

Night Stalker turned to look at Dave, “If you feel threatened then inform the guards, we can protect you”

“Odio is just a dick,” Dave chuckled as Strong Shield nodded in agreement. “Also he is petrified of Celestia”

Odio glared, “I am not!”

“Tell that to her,” Dave pointed to an empty spot behind Odio and the large fog spun around in surprise and slowly rotated back with an evil frown. “Fooled you and proved my point!”

Odio cracked a smile, “I’ll let you get away with that one”

“Oh and for the punches,” Dave flicked his fingers at the fog, a few drops of human blood passed through the fog and left a flaming trail through the dense blackness

“OW!” Odio swirled madly as he flared his eyes at Dave. “Fine. I get it!”

Dave and Odio slowly began chuckling but were stopped as Strong Shield whistled loudly. “Alright, I have training to get on with!” He turned to each of the beings in the training area in turn. “Lieutenant I believe you have other duties, Trainees can run ten laps of the city, Nox can you go and see if your mom is doing anything tomorrow?”

The trainees all groaned as they began to jog away and Night Stalker saluted to Dave before flying away. Dave gave Nox a kiss on his head before the grey alicorn created another wormhole and dived through

Strong Shield sighed as he looked at Dave and Odio, “Right, I have recruited another member for our little group, he will get to us all to Manehatten Trainyard faster than any train”

“Alright, who?” Dave folded his arms as the air behind the unicorn and the fog shook and a set of diamond scales appeared. “Adamas?”

The diamond dragon tipped his head to Dave as the rest of his body slowly appeared. “Hello Prince Dave, may I congratulate you on your engagement?”

“Cheers Adamas,” Dave sighed as he looked up at the large dragon. “Sorry you had to get roped into all our mess”

“Not a problem, I…” Adamas moved his nose closer to Dave before giving him a few sniffs. “Your breath reeks of gold, I take it that you ingested the key?”

Strong Shield nodded, “Good thing you are up to speed already”

“I will meet my apprentices later,” Adamas suddenly frowned. “Let it be known that I will assist in getting you all to this Daedalus, I will guard the outer perimeter of Tartarus with the Cerberus but I don’t recommend that Dave goes into that infernal place”

Dave shuffled his feet nervously as Strong Shield narrowed his eye at the dragon. “What do you know about Tartarus?”

“I know nothing,” Adamas sighed sadly. “But the elder told us that we would be better off dying than entering that… hell”

“Oh brilliant,” Dave shivered with a sense of dread. “A million year old dragon calls it hell”

Odio hummed as his fog swirled slowly around his burning eyes. “I still say we should look for some other way before we throw Dave in there”

“Dave is going in due to his own free will,” Strong Shield glared at the fog and dragon before looking at Dave. “Are you still up for this?”

Dave looked at Adamas and Odio’s concerned faces before he sighed and nodded. “Yeah, I’m in”

“Good,” Strong Shield looked at his small task force. “Right, we finish off anything we have to do and we will leave in two days time”

Adamas nodded, “That gives me time to speak to my apprentices here”

“I can finish off that boss,” Odio muttered

“And I get to spend a meal with each of my favourite mares,” Dave’s laugh was full of concern as he looked back at Strong Shield. “I am going to spend all of tomorrow with my son, no interruptions”

Strong Shield nodded, “Don’t worry, you have been through worse than this”

Odio, Dave and Strong Shield entered the castle before going their separate ways, each with a reassuring nod to each other before the diamond dragon was left alone

Adamas sighed as he watched Dave walk down the clean corridor and move out of sight, “You have suffered death before… but Tartarus is a prison, I don’t think it is meant to kill”

Chapter 80

Luna’s eyes flickered open as she awoke, she rose her head to see Dave sat at the edge of the bed. The human was shivering as he rubbed his hand along one of his arms, his fingers traced along the black mark that designated him.

The soft sound of humming was floating through the air, the noise was soothing yet quiet. Luna heard the humming stop and the flapping of large wings take its place, Adamas flew past the window as he flew into the countryside in search of food. Luna almost forgot about the human beside her as she noticed his sniff.

Luna quietly sat up and shuffled closer to Dave, slowly lifting a hoof to rest on his back. Dave flinched and dropped his arm as he used his hand to wipe his face. “H-hey Luna,” Dave said cheerfully. “Did you enjoy yourself?”

“Yes, very much,” Luna rested her chin on Dave’s shoulder as she wrapped her hooves around his neck and held him close. “What’s wrong?” The alicorn asked softly as Dave tensed up again.

“I had a nightmare, nothing serious,” Dave said quietly as he dipped his head, his hands gripped the bed as he forced his eyes to stay closed. “Sorry I woke you.”

Luna pressed her body against Dave’s back as she closed her eyes and held her face against his neck. “You had a nightmare about Tartarus, didn’t you?”

Dave’s body tensed as Luna held him close, his chest began to shake as he shuddered again, his teeth grinding against each other as he held back tears. “I’m pathetic aren’t I?”

“No you aren’t,” Luna squeezed Dave as she began to quiver as well. “I had nightmares that I woke up and I was back on the moon for months after I returned.”

“I’m sorry,” Dave turned to wrap his arms around Luna. “I shouldn’t compare to my short stay to yours.”

Luna smiled, “Mine was a thousand years of boredom whilst yours was a year of hell.”

Dave chuckled as he pressed his face into Luna’s neck, rubbing his face against her soft fur. “If you ever go back to the moon then I am coming to get you.”

“And if you ever get dragged into Tartarus then I am coming to get you,” Luna smiled as she sat in silence with Dave, both happy in each other’s embrace as the moon began to dip towards the horizon.

Dave played with Luna’s mane as he smirked, “Worst thing about the moon?”

“Nothing but rocks,” Luna sighed. “What was the worst thing about Tartarus?”

“The food,” Dave and Luna started to giggle before breaking out into full on laughter that caused them to tear at the eyes. Dave took a deep breath to calm himself as Luna wiped a tear from her eye.

Luna smiled as she rested her head against Dave’s chest and listened to his heartbeat as he stroked her mane. “I love you Dave.”

“I love you too Luna,” Dave smiled as he kissed the top of Luna’s head. The human laid down on the bed and allowed Luna to use his chest as a pillow, the alicorn slowly fell back to sleep as Dave was left staring at the ceiling.

Dave’s smile began to fade as he thought back to his nightmare, but before he could recall any thoughts, Luna shuffled closer and snuggled against the warmth of Dave’s body. Dave began smiling again as Luna‘s breath began to gently roll across his skin, indicating she was truly asleep.

The human’s eyes glimpsed at the cutie mark on Luna’s flank and the mark on his own arm. “I wonder… nah.” Dave let his head fall as he began to slowly drift off to sleep as well, the alicorn beside him prevented him from having any more nightmares.

A few hours later…

“So…” Celestia smiled as Luna sat down and had a bowl of porridge placed in front of her. Luna narrowed her eyes at the smiling Celestia as she sensed something devious going on.

“So what?” Luna stared at Celestia as the princess of the sun continued to smile. Luna began to look away before she realized. “Oh you mean last night don’t you?” Luna blushed.

Celestia’s smile grew, “Of course!” The white alicorn watched as her sibling looked away as her face almost turned completely red the younger alicorn pressed her face into her hooves. “You looked like you were enjoying yourself.”

Luna gasped through her hooves which resulted in a loud squeak. “You saw!” Luna yelled as she looked at her sister in disbelief. “H-how could you?” Luna shouted angrily, her sister not noticing the anger in Luna’s eyes.

“Well I had my telescope and you had left a small gap in your curtains,” Celestia tapped her chin. “To be honest, I left after you got on top.”

“Is Dave that much of a toy to you?” Luna snarled as she slammed her hooves onto the table and glared across the table at her sister. Celestia heard the spite in Luna’s voice and responded with a glare of her own.

The princesses stared at each other as neither looked away for a second, Luna’s porridge slowly turned cold as it was left unattended. Luna’s hooves were pressed against the stone table as she tried to contain her anger. Celestia sat in her chair, the only aggression was shown through her dark glare.

“I love Dave more than you know, I will not have my love questioned,” Celestia said as she continued to glare into Luna’s eyes.

“You have a strange way of showing love to anything you say you care about!” Luna scoffed as Celestia’s lips twitched into a snarl. “You won’t let me and Dave have any intimacy together without spying and you allowed both of us to suffer in our own prisons while you did nothing!”

Celestia’s face dropped into one of despair as she looked across the table at her sister, “What happened last night?”

Luna lost her anger as she pulled her hooves close to her body, “Dave had a nightmare about Tartarus and I couldn’t comfort him, he put on a brave face and bottled up his fears.”

“You know this because you went through this too,” Celestia sighed as she shook her head. “I know that Dave will be fine, we have to take it slow and he will open up to us in his own time.”

“Open up to you,” Luna muttered angrily before dropping her head in shame. “I’m sorry sister, I shouldn’t be jealous but I can’t help it.”

Celestia smiled as she walked over to Luna and wrapped her hooves around her. “Dave loves us both equally, I know things have been difficult recently but you know that Dave will always return to his clueless, happy personality.”

“I’m sorry sister,” Luna returned the hug as she closed her eyes. “It is your wedding day soon and I won’t ruin it and I will make sure it is the happiest day of your life.”

Celestia nuzzled against her sibling as she smiled. “I should hope so, seeing as you are my going to be my head bridesmaid.”

Luna pulled away slightly as she looked at Celestia, “I-I thought that you would be asking me to do the ceremony.” The younger sister began laughing as she pounced on her sister and began rubbing her face against Celestia. “I get to wear a dress and be next to you the entire time!”

“That is what I was hoping,” Celestia smiled as she rubbed her sister’s mane. “You, Cadence and Flux are going to be my bridesmaids.”

“Wait…” Luna pulled away again. “Flux? As in the Pegasus who caused all those problems?”

Celestia sighed, “Those old guards just made some wrong choices, they never meant to be bad.” The princess rolled her eyes as she grumbled, “I still can’t believe Strong Shield convinced me into asking her.”

“Is he going to walk you down the aisle?” Luna held a hoof over her mouth as Celestia nodded happily. “Dave is going to be so happy when he sees that, I wonder who his best stallion or mare is going to be…” Luna hummed as she tapped her chin, “Probably Odio.”

Celestia shook her head, “Dave mentioned he had something planned for Odio but he won’t tell us what.” The princess of the sun smiled, “But Adamas is taking Dave into Ponyville with Nox so I suppose he will be bringing back Twilight and her friends.”

“So when he comes back we are going to have the wedding?” Luna beamed as Celestia nodded.

“Dave kept mentioning that it is bad luck to see the bride before the wedding,” Celestia shrugged as she returned to her seat. “I would also imagine that Nox will be bringing Applebloom, he has been a true gentlecolt from what I have heard.”

Luna smiled as she imagined Nox trying to be like his father. “Hopefully Nox and Dave can spend some time together, I will have to be honest and say that events have been keeping them… distant.”

“True, Nox’s sudden age jump was a shock but it is more alarming that he matured almost as quickly,” Celestia hummed as she tapped her hooves against the table. “You will have to be cautious when you and Dave have a foal of your own.”

The younger sister blushed heavily as she looked at her sister, “F-foal?”

“I assume you would like to have a child with Dave at some point,” Celestia smiled slightly as Luna blushed again.

“W-well yes but I don’t think I will be ready for quite some time,” Luna rubbed a hoof along her leg as she thought about all the possibilities ahead of her. She had wanted to be with Dave and she regularly fantasized about what life they could have. But now it was possible she hadn’t thought about it anymore. “So long as we are happy together.”

Meanwhile…

“You are coming in a little hot Adamas,” Dave held onto one of the dragon’s large spines. “Adamas you need to slow down a bit.”

The diamond dragon slammed into the ground outside Ponyville, the human was thrown from the dragon as he crashed onto a building, his face bashing against the thatched roof. Adamas snorted as Nox carefully glided down and rested on the dragon’s head.

“I am upset at you for what you did to one of my apprentices,” Adamas snorted. He paused as he looked at Dave, “I assume nopony has told you yet.”

“There are a lot of things that I haven’t been told.” Dave rubbed his neck as he looked around the building he was on. “So what is it this time?”

“When you were taken into the vault, you had a piece of your mind severed from the rest,” Adamas offered a claw to help Dave to the ground. “Your survival instinct ordered us around but still made sure he destroyed Harvest and brought you back.”

Dave hummed, “That explains the sword.”

“He made a full armour and used Odio to power it,” Adamas let Dave drop to the ground and began following him along the wider streets. “Ultimately he was an emotionless yet powerful being.”

“Anything else?” Dave waved to a few ponies as they gawped up at the diamond dragon, they smiled when they saw Dave and they continued with their day.

“You have a peculiar power.” Adamas sighed, “It turns out that you can exert your resistance past magic.”

“Like gravity or life forms?” Dave arched his head back as he noticed Adamas’ confused stare. “Something I learnt in Tartarus.”

Nox glided down from Adamas’ head and landed beside his father. “Hey dad, why are we in Ponyville?”

“I have come to pick up the super heroes, crusaders and my best man,” Dave walked through the town until he reached the large tree that housed Twilight’s library. He knocked gently, Adamas arched his head around the building and his eye peered into one of the larger windows.

The door opened and Twilight leapt out of the door and wrapped her hooves around Dave. “Why haven’t you written any letters?” Twilight said playfully as Dave gave her a friendly hug.

“Usual problems,” Dave chuckled as he released Twilight. “Sorry I haven’t been in contact for a while, but I am here to offer an invitation.”

The purple unicorn allowed Dave and Nox to follow her into the library, Adamas rolled his eyes as he remained outside and snapped his jaws at a few birds that flew past his head. Twilight walked over to one of her desks and levitated up a letter bearing a royal seal.

“Princess Celestia already sent the wedding invites to me and my friends,” Twilight smiled as Dave nodded. “It was nice of you to make the effort to come down here anyway.”

“Not to sound rude, but I didn’t come for that,” Dave shrugged as Twilight gave him a confused look. “I am here for Spike.”

“Spike?” Twilight quickly scanned the letter she had. “I assume that it would be alright for me to bring him as a plus one right?”

The library door swung open and Spike walked in with two large bags. “I have your parchment Twilight, they said that the next order should be delivered by next week.”

“Hey Spike!” Nox waved as Spike placed the bags down and walked over to the group.

“Hey Nox, hey Dave,” Spike smiled as he walked over and sat on the sofa next to Nox. “What’s going on?”

“Well Dave said that he wants to talk to you about something.” Twilight, Nox and Spike all turned their heads to look at Dave as the human stood and stared down at the young dragon.

“Spike,” Dave narrowed his eyes and Spike gulped under Dave’s glare. “Will you be my best man?”

“Best what?” Spike gawped. “You mean like best mare or stallion?”

Dave rolled his eyes, “Yeah one of them.”

Spike looked at a smiling Twilight and Nox before looking at Dave, a large grin across his face. “S-sure!”

Dave held out his hand and Spike quickly grasped it with his claw, shaking it firmly as he exchanged smiles with the human. Adamas’ eye filled one of the windows and he hummed happily, the vibrations rumbled through the tree as the large dragon smiled.

“And you big guy,” Dave turned to smile at Adamas. “You are in charge of the music.”

“What!” Adamas yelling in surprise, his voice travelling far beyond the city outskirts. “Why would you choose me to do that?”

Dave shrugged, “I hear you humming little tunes late at night, so do the night guards and Luna.” The human smirked as Adamas looked away. “So this will be perfect for you to show us what you are really made of.”