c “And you decide to tell us this now?” Celestia questioned, staring at Nicholas.

“Not that I have a choice!” Nicholas sighed, turning to Elizabeth and smiling. “Hello dear.”

“Hello Nicholas.” Elizabeth said with a playful smile pasted on her face.

“But… you… Lyra and…” Cecil started.

“All fun. Nothing overstepping the boundaries set.” Nicholas said.

“Boundaries… set…” Alex said.

“Yes, we have an agreement. You could call us swingers, keeps it interesting.” Elizabeth snickered.

“You don’t say.” Celestia said, staring at Nicholas with a half entertained and half unapproving expression.

“To be fair, you pushed yourself on me.” Nicholas said defensively, taking a step back.

“You were the one flirting.” Scootaloo pointed out.

“Flirting, phht… She was the seductress in this situation.” Nicholas said.

Celestia raised an eyebrow.

“I… shut up.” Nicholas grumbled.

Scootaloo snickered a little.

“I’m hungry.” Gregor said bluntly, walking into the kitchen. Everyone heard the sound of the fridge opening and everything inside rattling as he scrounged the interior.

“Not even going to question what’s happening.” Alex mumbled.

“I’ll pay for any damages.” Elizabeth chuckled, taking a seat next to Alex. Nicholas burst towards her and took a seat by her side.

“Why have you stopped quest-” Scootaloo was cut off.

“Since the camping ‘trip’ everything’s just been one big question. So. I’ve stopped asking it.” Alex said.

“Smart boy.” Elizabeth said, glancing at Alex out of the corner of her eyes and smiling.

“Um… Thanks…” Alex said.

“Who exactly… are you?” Scootaloo asked a bit hesitantly.

“Why, I’m Elizabeth. What else do you need to know, other than I am the wife to the most lovely, trusting, sincere man In the world.” Elizabeth said in a calm and lowly tone as she ran her hand across Nicholas’ cheek.

Cecil glanced up at the horn on Elizabeth’s head that he seemed to not have noticed before and saw the set of symmetric lines running around it in almost a spiral pattern. “What’s with your horn?” He asked. The moment he said that, everyone in the room turned and stared at Elizabeth’s horn.

“Oh I… never noticed you had one.” Fluttershy mumbled.

Elizabeth gave a playful and dry laugh, as if she knew something they didn’t.

“Um… Alrighty then?” Scootaloo said uncertainly.

“Gregor.” Elizabeth called.

Gregor stepped through the doorway with a platter of food that looked to contain almost the entire fridge on it. As he walked some spilt onto the floor, some he carelessly stepped on and smashed before sitting down and eating.

“As mannered as always.” Elizabeth joked.

“Mm?” Gregor grunted, glancing to her before taking a bite off a slab of meat.

Scootaloo turned to Fluttershy. “You have meat in your fridge? I thought you were a vegetarian?” She asked.

“Oh… it… wasn’t for me…” Fluttershy mumbled, cringing slightly with every piece of food that messily fell onto either the couch or the floor.

“I’m… um…” Alex mumbled as he started to think.

“This is quite the, ahem, ‘family’ you have here.” Elizabeth said.

“They’re off limits.” Nicholas stated.

“Ohh Nicky… You hurt me.” Elizabeth said in a fake hurt tone.

“I’m serious.” Nicholas said.

“Eh hem. I hope I am not interrupting.” A robed man said from the empty front door frame.

“Mm?” Gregor mumbled, his chewing stopped as he stared at the stranger.

The man said something that no one understood before he shook his head, “Forgive my language just then. I have come under Torrent’s orders.” He said as he stepped past the door frame, now in full view was the sheathed sword on his hip.

“R’yotta what’s wrong?” Alex asked.

“Nothing you need to worry about now Alex.” R’yotta said calmly.

“What’s the runt babbling about?” Gregor questioned.

R’yotta remained quiet as he leaned back against the wall.

“What’s going on?” Cecil questioned.

“Now isn’t the time.” R’yotta said, glancing between Elizabeth and Gregor.

“Oh I’m sorry, are we interrupting?” Elizabeth questioned.

“No.” R’yotta said.

“Got something to say then say it.” Gregor said in his usual deep and impatient tone.

“No.” R’yotta said.

“Please Gregor, leave the man be.” Elizabeth sighed.

“Just say it. Please.” Alex said.

R’yotta sighed. “It doesn’t matter. They’re not nearby right now, we were able to misdirect them for a little longer.” He said.

“Who?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

“Oh. Now I see why you’re here.” Alex nodded as he closed his eyes.

“That’s… not good… we need to tell Red and Dash.” Scootaloo said quietly.

“Tell them what?” Cecil asked.

“Speak up boy.” Gregor said loudly.

“It doesn’t matter to you.” Alex said.

“I’ll call her.” Nicholas said, seeming to know what is happening. He stood up and was grabbed by Gregor and yanked back down to the couch.

“Now don’t be rude, we were having a nice conversation.” Gregor said.

Nicholas cringed, shaking slightly as the grip on his arm became painful.

“You’re the one being rude.” R’yotta said bluntly, his usual calm tone turning slightly to disgust.

“If you break my husband you’re getting me a new one.” Elizabeth said, staring intently at Gregor.

Gregor smirked and released Nicholas, pushing him forward to the floor.

“Ph… shit…” Nicholas grunted, clutching his arm tightly.

R’yotta said something under his breath. “I’ll be outside if I’m needed. He said aloud as he walked out of the house.

Cecil walked over and helped Nicholas up. “Thanks…” Nick mumbled.

“You okay?” Cecil asked.

“He’s fine. The man’s flexible and pliant.” Gregor laughed.

“I’m going outside I need to talk with R’yotta.” Alex said as he stood up and walked outside.

“We’ll keep the house intact…” Fluttershy said.

Scootaloo nervously glanced at Gregor.

Gregor turned to Scootaloo and grinned. “See something you like pip-squeak?” He joked.

Scootaloo looked away from him.

Everyone heard a loud thud come from outside followed instantly by a pained shout.

“Alex!” Cecil and Nicholas shouted, sprinting to the door.

When they stepped outside they saw R’yotta on the ground rubbing blood away from his nose. “That one was good.” He said.

“T… thanks…” Alex said, slightly shaky.

Both Cecil and Nicholas could tell he had taken multiple hits already.

“Now you don’t let u-” R’yotta was cut off as Alex axe kicked him in the center of the stomach.

Nicholas smiled and watched with great intrigue as Cecil cringed slightly with every hit.

R’yotta grabbed Alex’s ankle and twisted it forcing him onto the ground. “Don’t you think it’s over yet…” He said.

“Nnng…” Alex grunted as he squirmed against R’yotta’s grip.

Cecil took a few steps forward. “Um.” He said aloud.

Alex grabbed R’yotta’s ankle and knee and twisted.

“GAH!” R’yotta grunted, his grip never relaxing. “Tap… out… and it’ll end…”

“I love wars of attrition, but I don’t think it can end if both your hands are in use.” Nicholas suggested.

Alex slammed R’yotta’s foot down roughly a few times and they both let go of each other.

“Heh… that was a good match Alex. Much better than yesterday’s.” R’yotta said.

“Thanks…” Alex said as he rolled onto his back and off of R’yotta.

“Either of you hurt beyond the usual?” Nicholas asked.

“No.” They both said.

“Had it gone on any longer there would have been some more serious injuries.” R’yotta said.

“That’s… good to know you’re… doing this every day.” Cecil sighed.

“No! It’s just yesterday and today. And sometime next week.” R’yotta said, “Lessons are only once a week… it helps with memorization and it allows any bruising from the kendo lessons to heal.”

“Kendo is great if you have a wooden sword, but what happens when you’re fighting someone with magic? Or a REAL weapon.” Nicholas questioned.

“Magic is easy to deal with if you have to correct methods.” R’yotta said. “But that takes a lifetime of training. And as for real weapons… I’m sure there’s a suitable teacher somewhere around here.”

Nicholas’ smile grew. “No you’re not.” Cecil said.

“I didn’t say anything.” Nicholas said.

“You were thinking it.” Cecil said.

“Well the more variety he has the better he’ll be able to fight.” R’yotta said. “And… in all reality it is Alex’s choice.”

“Well… I don’t know… What would you teach me?” Alex asked, staring up at Nicholas.

“How to use a real sword.” Nicholas said.

“What you use is NOT considered a sword.” Cecil sighed.

“It’s not the weapon, it’s the technique. Yes or no.” Nicholas said, staring at Alex.

“Um… sure.” Alex shrugged.

“Great, we start tomorrow.” Nicholas said.

“Why don’t we ask Sam? Who is you know, trained? As a soldier?” Cecil asked.

Nicholas turned to Cecil and just stared at him.

“Or your way…” Cecil said, taking a step back.

“Well…” Alex mumbled as he scratched his chin in thought.

“Sure go train with Sam and learn how to brute force your way through every situation.” Nicholas said.

“Mmm tomorrow sounds good.” Alex said with a quick nod.

“Good. Now don’t forget to bring your own first aid kid I don’t hold back, have fun and good luck.” Nicholas said, turning and walking back inside.

“Just remember the counters I showed you.” R’yotta chuckled. “I’m sure that’ll surprise him.”

Alex nodded as he stood up.

“Ah and remember clear your mind and focus on your opponent's movements.” R’yotta said as he pushed himself up.

“Okay.” Alex said.

“Not that you shouldn’t learn to defend yourself but… does fighting always have to be the answer?” Cecil asked.

“No… but there’s a few people who don’t understand anything but force.” Alex said. He closed his eyes for a moment. “Cecil… did Scootaloo tell you what I told Nicholas?” He looked up at Cecil.

“What?” Cecil asked.

“I’ll… tell you later…” Alex mumbled as he walked slowly back into the house.

“I miss something?” Cecil questioned.

“I’m sure if he gets you alone he’ll tell you.” R’yotta said. “But… I can tell you it’s something very important.”

“Well I look forward to it.” Cecil chuckled.

R’yotta gave Cecil a saddened look. “I’ll be out here if I’m needed.” He said.

“Why not? you have something against my wife’s house?” Cecil smiled.

“No. Just that pig.” R’yotta said.

“Listen… apart from my clinically insane brother, his terrifying wife, and that eight foot long dick eating all our food… I need some sanity in this house.” Cecil pleaded.

R’yotta sighed, “I cannot leave any sane man alone. So I’ll come inside.” He said.

“Thank you.” Cecil said, wrapping an arm around R’yotta. “How bout we order some food since we’re out.” He laughed.

“Why don’t you two just come by where I live? I’m sure I can cook something that you’d both eat… that is if you enjoy spices.” R’yotta offered.

“That sounds perfect but…” Cecil said, stopping immediately and sighing.

“What’s wrong?” R’yotta asked.

“Who’s invited? Because if I am then my brother is.” Cecil started.

“Oh I like your brother.” R’yotta said.

“And his wife.” Cecil continued.

“All weapons have to be left outside the building. And the kitchen is communal so no one can raid it. It’s hard feeding fifteen people.” R’yotta said.

“I can barely keep my own wife in control when someone cooks something good.” Cecil chuckled.

“I cooked for a pregnant woman too. I know that pain.” R’yotta smiled. “As much as it is a pain I always enjoy their company.”

“Well I wish you luck.” Cecil said. “Why don’t we head inside before my wife’s house is utterly destroyed.”

“If that happens I’m sure we can rebuild it.” R’yotta joked as he followed Cecil inside.

----------------------------------

“I love your house.” Sam said, walking around the massive living room and looking at every individual object.

“Thanks. It’s meant for about seventeen people to live in here. So… it has to be big.” Torrent said.

“Fluttershy? R’yotta wanted to see you. He’s in the kitchen.” Rose said as she stepped out of the dining room.

Fluttershy nodded and walked into the kitchen.

“So… there are a few new faces I see.” Torrent said as he looked at Elizabeth and Gregor. “And of course we’re happy to have two of the princesses in our home.” He smiled as he looked over at Twilight and Celestia.

Everyone saw two little kids peek out from one of the hallways before dashing back down it.

“I see your kids are h-” Dash stopped herself as Star and Dusk burst down the hall after them. “Having fun.”

“It’s hard to keep them contained. Petal managed to kick down the gate. And Tulip is getting into places that I don’t even know how she can enter.” Rose chuckled.

“But everyone’s been so helpful with it so… we’ve had time to actually get the house set up and everything in order.” Torrent smiled as he hugged Rose.

“So… where are we waiting for dinner at?” Alex asked.

“Well right here. Mostly everyone else is in their rooms… as usual… you’ll get a chance to meet everyone at dinner.” Torrent said. “But first. Why don’t your two new friends introduce themselves?”

“Uhh… The woman is um… so far tame. The hulk is a slob, watch out for him.” Cecil said.

“Ah… then he must be Gregor…” Torrent said.

“Don’t touch my kids.” Rose said bluntly.

“Oh you have kids?” Gregor chuckled, glancing around the room. “I think I stepped on em, lemme check my boots.”

“Oh yes and before you enter the dining room… or the rest of the building shoes off.” Torrent said.

“It’s one of the rules of the house and… incase you haven’t noticed we all follow it.” Rose said, motioning to the area beside the door which had a large amount of various footwear lined up neatly in rows.

Gregor laughed before kicking off his boots to reveal his bare feet. “Whatever you say.” He said.

“Everyone if you’d please.” Torrent said.

Everyone in the room calmly sat down and continued to talk with one another. When Fluttershy sat down the others saw she was eating a cup of noodles. “How are they?” Cecil asked.

“Mmph.” Fluttershy nodded happily.

“He’s turned his style of cooking into an art form always out doing himself everytime.” Rose chuckled. “Oh and trust me when I say you’ll want to eat a lot. They’re extremely healthy and… well if you want anymore to take home just ask.”

“So how are all of you?” Torrent asked.

“Great.” Scootaloo said.

“Just fine.” Alex said.

Before anyone else could answer there was a loud barking down one of the halls.

A dog the size of a small pony rushed down the hall and lept onto the couch right onto Sam’s lap.

Sam stared at the dog for a moment before lifting it up and bringing it’s head close to his face, staring it in the eyes intently.

The dog started licking Sam’s face and his tail started wagging happily.

“Aww Shep likes you.” Rose smiled.

Sam copied the dog and started licking him.

“Wow. That’s… a first…” Alex said.

“Yeah… Twilight does he… usually do that?” Scootaloo asked.

“He’s weird.” Twilight smiled.

Sam fell to the floor and started rolling around with Shep, wrestling roughly with him.

Another dog about the same size walked down the hall and just plopped down on the floor.

“Oh hey there Jes.” Torrent said as he reached down and scratched the second dog behind the ears.

Shep latched onto Sam and started chewing on his hand as they rolled around.

“Hm…” Axel smiled, reaching down to pet Shep.

Shep stopped all movement and growled.

“Axel… pull your hand back slowly…” Torrent warned. “No sudden movements… when he attacks… it’s going to be bad… even for you…” His eyes darted to Jes.

Axel stared Shep down and started to growl himself.

Jes growled lowly as she slowly stood up.

Van looked at Axel almost pleadingly.

Axel huffed a breath out his nose and backed away.

Jes plopped back down and Shep stopped growling.

Shep let go of Sam and stood up. He stared at Axel for a moment before slowly turning to look at everyone else. His eyes stopped on Van and a massive amount of drool started to come out of his mouth.

“No…” Torrent said.

Shep took a step towards Van

“If he hurts my brother I swear to god I’ll tear his throat out.” Axel growled, stepping towards Van.

“No. Shep won’t be doing anything other than taking him back to the real threat…” Rose said.

“I hope your brother likes puppies…” Torrent said.

Van looked at Torrent confused.

Shep lept towards Van, grabbed his ankle and quickly dragged him down the hall.

“Don’t even try… Jes is vicious when it comes to her little ones.” Rose said.

Jes stared at Axel intently.

Axel stared at Jes. “You want something?” He asked.

Jes barked.

“Why not?” Axel asked.

Jes barked again.

“He looked like he was going to bite my face off what else would I do?” Axel questioned defensively.

Jes barked.

“That’s not very nice.” Axel said.

There was a loud series of yips and high pitched barks from down the hall.

Jes barked.

Axel looked down the hall for a few moments, chewing his lip as he thought.

Jes stood up and slowly walked back to the hall, she stared back at everyone and barked.

Axel jumped up and saluted, following her down the hall and into the room.

Sam was still lying motionless on the floor. “Did we stop?” He asked.

“I think you should go back with them… and anyone else who wants to see an entire room with it’s floor covered in puppies.” Rose said.

Fluttershy squeed and flew down the hall like a bullet. She looked into the other room and nearly melted before walking in.

After she stepped in there was even more barking and yipping.

“Well where’s the damn food?” Gregor asked, leaning back in his chair.

“When R’yotta is done.” Rose said.

Elizabeth sat there, seeming entertained by everything happening as she watched.

R’yotta stepped out, “The appetizers will be coming out soon.” He said. “The first course is already in the pots.”

“That’s great…” Nicholas said, seeming to be focused on Cecil as the two stared at each other.

“Whatcha doooin?” Pinkie asked.

Cecil and Nicholas both raised a hand as they continued to stare at each other.

“If someone would like to help with these rolls they could have an early taste of the rest of the meal.” R’yotta called from the kitchen.

Sam jumped up and ran into the kitchen along with Twilight.

“Are you two alright?” Rose asked.

Nicholas’ hand swung and came in contact with Cecil’s face. Cecil immediately swung and was dodged by Nicholas, who fell out of the chair and to the floor, scrambling to his feet and running as Cecil chased him through the living room.

“Stop fighting.” Rose said.

“This isn’t… fighting.” Cecil breathed as he slipped and tumbled to the floor, quickly jumping up and chasing after Nicholas.

“This is called winning.” Nicholas said, diving under the kitchen table and popping out the other side. “Hey where’s all the chairs and why are there pillows underneath?”

“It’s how we eat here.” Rose said calmly. “Oh and…”

Before Rose could speak a young man carried in two pots of tea and sat them on the living room table he walked back into the kitchen before coming out with tea cups.

“Here it is.” Rose smiled.

“Who’s he?” Cecil asked, slowing to a stop.

“This is Emery.” Rose said.

Emery glanced around nervously before rushing back into the kitchen.

“Hello.” Nicholas waved.

Emery glanced down at Nicholas before going back to work on whatever was in one of the pots.

“Don’t mind him he’s overly shy.” Rose chuckled.

“Mnm I mph It yn.” Sam said with his mouth full.

“Mmhm.” Twilight nodded.

“So you both like his cooking?” Torrent smiled.

“Me.” Sam said.

“Him.” Twilight agreed.

Sam looked at Twilight for a moment.

“Oh I thought he asked if we like cooking… Yeah no it’s great!” Twilight smiled.

Rose chuckled.

“I wanna try then!” Scootaloo said as she got up and walked into the kitchen.

Cecil and Nicholas walked into the kitchen. They both froze and looked at each other. Cecil immediately tackled Nicholas to the floor.

“Knock it off.” R’yotta said.

Nicholas grabbed Cecil’s arm and was about to twist it when the skin faded and Cecil’s skeletal counterpart appeared in his place. “Kung fu won’t save you now.” Cecil said with the normal hollow tone he had in that form.

“WHAT THE FUCK!” Emery shouted in surprise. He tripped and dropped a massive empty pot onto the floor with a loud clatter.

“What do y-” R’yotta stopped as he stared intently at Cecil.

Cecil looked up at R’yotta. “What?” He asked, gripping Nicholas tighter.

R’yotta’s eye twitched as he grabbed a frying pan and smashed it against the side of Cecil’s head.

Cecil grunted and stumbled, giving Nicholas enough space to kick him across the room and through the kitchen table. “Thanks.” Nicholas said, standing up and brushing himself off.

R’yotta threw the dented frying pan to the floor.

“What’s wrong? I thought you liked rough housing? Oh you didn’t mean literally being rough IN your house did you.” Nicholas joked.

“Stop fighting or neither of you will be eating.” R’yotta said.

Both R’yotta and Nicholas turned to see Cecil standing behind Nicholas with one peg from the kitchen table and was about to strike Nicholas with it. Nicholas twitched and fell to the floor in surprise. “Fiiiiine…” Cecil sighed, dropping the weapon.

“Sit.” R’yotta ordered, motioning to the stools in front of the counter.

Cecil pulled Nicholas to his feet and the two sat down without a word.

R’yotta put two wooden slabs in front of them, various sushi rolls laid out on them. “Go ahead and eat.” He said.

Cecil reverted back to his normal self and the two started eating.

“How do you like it?” R’yotta asked, putting some sauces in front of them.

“Ssgreat.” Nicholas mumbled as he chewed.

Cecil nodded and stuffed another into his mouth.

“Try the rhino sauce, it’s the green one.” R’yotta suggested.

Cecil and Nicholas looked at each other, shrugging as Cecil grabbed it and put a little one them. Nicholas pretended to eat it and watched his brother closely.

Cecil took a bite and smiled. “Mmph god…” He moaned. “Shoo good.”

Nicholas immediately took a bite and started chewing, giving a thumbs up shortly after.

“I’d suggest the red sauce but… I don’t think you two would be able to take it.” R’yotta said.

Cecil and Nicholas looked up at R’yotta and stared at him. Cecil grabbed the bottle and stuck out his tongue, dripping some on before stuffing another roll into his mouth.

R’yotta grabbed the bottle and put a lot on his own roll before taking it entirely into his mouth. “I like the burning feeling once it starts.” He said. “It’s not for the weak though…”

Nicholas put one leg over the other as he watched Cecil patiently.

Cecil’s chewing slowed to a stop and he froze there.

“Oh nows a good time to mention it’s called dragon’s breath.” R’yotta said.

“Sir, we’re out of milk…” Emery said.

Cecil jumped up and sprinted out of the room. A few moments later the three of them heard Fluttershy moan.

“Oh Nicholas if you want to get the flavor without the burn try this one.” R’yotta said, sliding a dish of a yellow liquid over to Nicholas.

“You know I’m an expert in poison.” Nicholas started.

“You know I don’t kill people I like right?” R’yotta questioned.

“You know I do.” Nicholas said. “Why is it yellow?”

“That’s just one of the main ingredients. It turns most liquids yellow.” R’yotta said. “And here to prove it’s not poison.” He dipped another roll into the sauce and ate it.

“And… okay whatever.” Nicholas sighed, dipping one in the sauce and taking a bite.

“So tell me how do you like it?” R’yotta asked.

“Are these Jesus tears?” Nicholas asked, taking another bite immediately.

R’yotta chuckled. “Possibly.” He said. “Sit and enjoy yourself. I’ll make sure you’re prepared for the actual meal.”

------------------------------------

MEANWHILE In the living room:

There was a lot of barking.

“Oh god they’re out.” Torrent said.

Van was currently being dragged out by Axel, both of them covered in puppies.

There was a massive clatter as the rest of the puppies surged out of the room in a tidal wave of fur. Above the wave was Fluttershy, floating safely in the air with a single puppy on top of her head.

The tidal wave of puppies mixed with Axel, Van, and Cecil slammed into the couch and dispersed around it barking and jumping at everyone.

“Awwww they’re soooo cute!” Scootaloo squeed.

One of them had crawled into her lap and was chewing on her hands and fingers.

Axel had turned into his werewolf form and was playing with several of them with the biggest grin on his face.

A few of them were about to rush into the kitchen when Emery put up a baby gate in the doorway.

The puppies were everywhere, except for a large area around Elizabeth.

Elizabeth seemed almost oblivious to the happenings around her as she continued to drink from her tea cup.

A few puppies had found their way up onto Celestia and were nuzzled against her in various stages of falling asleep. She happily and gently ran her hand caringly through one of their fur.

Alex had picked up a puppy and it barked happily as it licked his face.

Shep walked into the room with Petal and Tulip on his back. Jes came in shortly after with Dusk and Star on her’s.

Dusk giggled loudly, her horn flowing with her usual rainbow energy and a few puppies started floating in circles around her.

“Fluffy death has been released upon the world.” Torrent joked.

Pinkie giggled uncontrollably as she rolled around in the mess of animals.

Nicholas walked out of the kitchen holding a puppy, his mouth full of food. “Why puppy.” He said, barely audible.

“Because someone decided to open the gate.” Rose laughed as a few puppies climbed all over her.

Fluttershy floated above everyone, staring up at the puppy on her head and giggling as it fell asleep.

“Cecil just a little warning… you might not want to transform around them… Irish wolf hounds love bones.” Torrent said.

“Mm I’ll remember that.” Cecil said, seeming distracted by the swarm of furballs.

A few puppies sat down in front of Twilight and stared up at her.

“Hello.” Twilight grinned.

All of them simultaneously cocked their heads.

“What’s wrong boys?” Twilight asked.

One of them barked before the rest charged her feet and started nibbling on them.

“Oh really?” Twilight laughed.

Axel was sitting down in his wolf form, barking a few things as he gained an audience with a bunch of the pups, seeming to be having a conversation with them.

“What are you talking about?” Alex asked as another puppy started chewing on his hand.

“I’m telling them a story.” Axel said.

“That’s nice. About what?” Torrent asked.

“Nothing you need to worry about.” Axel said.

Shep laid down then both Petal and Tulip crawled down off of his back and towards Axel. Both of them giggling as they approached.

Axel stared at the two babies curiously. “What?” He smiled.

Petal latched onto Axel’s leg and her sister latched onto his body.

“I speak puppy, not baby. You’re going to have to try harder if you want my attention.” Axel said, crossing his arms.

Both of them climbed onto his furry back and buried themselves in his fur.

“Okay you’re getting there.” Axel chuckled, lying forward onto his stomach and immediately all the puppies around him climbed onto his back and started licking the two babies.

The babies giggled loudly and started flailing around.

“Sick em!” Axel said with a large smirk on his face.

After a moment Petal rolled off Axel’s back and fell flat on the floor, face first.

Both babies fell silent.

Axel and all the puppies simply stopped and stared at Petal.

Petal kicked her foot out hitting Axel in the head.

Axel reached up and started tickling the foot that kicked him.

Petal started kicking madly as she started giggling again. Tulip joined her shortly after and started bouncing on Axel’s back.

One of the puppies slowly approached Elizabeth. She looked down at it and stared for a moment before picking it up. “Well hello there.” She said.

The puppy slowly licked her arm before looking back up at her.

Elizabeth smiled and turned to Rose. “Would it be unfair to take one for my own?” She asked.

“They’re still only a few weeks old… we’re not planning on starting to let them out for adoption for another week.” Rose said.

“Oh I’ve taken care of animals before, I have a husband you know.” Elizabeth laughed.

Rose glanced down at Jes.

Jes looked over at Elizabeth before looking back to Rose and barking once.

“I’m guessing Jes feels it’s alright.” Rose said. “So alright.”

“Excellent.” Elizabeth said, petting the puppy gently.

A puppy was staring intently at Van from the hallway.

Van’s eyes snapped to the puppy and locking eyes with it.

The puppy backed away and darted down the hall way out of sight.

Van jumped up and quickly followed after it. He peeked into the room and saw the puppy’s eyes twinkling from under the bed. He knelt down and stared at it.

The puppy crawled further back in an effort to stay out of reach. Van heard it’s quiet and slightly high pitched bark.

Van crossed his legs and sat still, holding his hand out.

After a minute of nothing happening the puppy peeked it’s head out and cautiously sniffed his hand. It was then that Van could clearly see that it was much smaller than any of it’s siblings.

Van smiled and quickly bent forward, holding the puppy down as he licked it.

The puppy squirmed around and tried in vain to escape his grasp.

Van continued to clean it for another minute before releasing it.

The puppy quickly darted back under the bed, this time though it peeked out every so often just to watch Van.

Van’s smile grew and he rolled over onto his back, reaching out playfully towards the pup.

The pup leaned out and licked his hand.

Van’s claw extended and slowly scratched the puppy’s chin.

The puppy barked happily and crawled out from under the bed.

Van picked the puppy up and nuzzled it close to his head.

The puppy licked his head and rubbed itself against him.

Van stood up, walking out with the puppy in his arms and back into the living room. The first thing he saw was Dash holding Star and Dusk in the air as she flew around the room, bringing another smile to his face.

“Look you can fly! You’re doing it!” Dash laughed. Dusk and Star held their arms out and giggled loudly.

The puppy that was still in Elizabeth’s arms was fast asleep as she continued to scratch it’s head. Gregor sat next to Elizabeth, fast asleep and snoring loudly.

The puppy that Van was holding had buried its face into his chest as if it was trying to hide itself.

Van looked down and scratched behind the puppy’s ear.

The puppy’s tail wagged a little.

“Oh that’s so sweet.” Rose smiled as she looked at Van and the puppy.

Van walked over and sat down next to Axel, who was drooling as Pinkie rubbed his belly.

Petal reached up towards the puppy Van was holding and the puppy pushed itself even more against Van’s body.

Van picked up Petal in his other arm and licked the pup once.

The puppy looked up at Van.

Van motioned towards Petal and stared at the pup.

The puppy looked over at Petal and stared momentarily.

Van licked Petal and smiled, moving the two closer.

The puppy licked Petal and she patted him on the head.

The puppy wagged its tail as it started licking her a little more.

“Mphm.” Nicholas mumbled with his mouth full.

“Where do you keep getting food?” Cecil asked.

“Mm.” Nicholas said.

“Everyone! Dinner’s ready!” R’yotta said before they all heard a bell ring inside the house.

“Dnm…” Gregor mumbled, slurping up some drool as he straightened up and snapped awake.

“Come on everyone let’s eat.” Torrent said as he stood up.

-------------------------------------------

After Dinner:

“Ohhh… god… that was a great…” Torrent trailed off as he plopped down on one of the couches.

“I’ll admit, the bitch can cook.” Gregor chuckled, tossing the plate lazily across the table and letting it clink on top of the others.

“You’d be surprised at what that ‘bitch’ can do with anything in this house.” Rose said.

“Uh huh.” Gregor said.

Emery walked in and picked up the plates.

“So… do you only do chores around here?” Scootaloo asked as he looked at Emery.

“No. I’m more of a… um…” Emery mumbled before he fell silent and carried the plates into the kitchen.

“Don’t worry about him. Like Rose said he’s shy.” R’yotta said as he appeared in the doorway to the kitchen.

“What’s wrong?” Red asked.

“Nothing.” R’yotta said as he walked back into the kitchen.

After a moment Emery came in with a cooked slab of kobe beef on a plate. He slid it silently across the table towards Gregor before ducking back into the kitchen.

Gregor took the piece of meat and took a bite. “Mph… Thanks kid.” He chuckled.

“You’re welcome.” R’yotta said from the kitchen.

Rose seemed to suddenly get nervous.

“What’s wrong?” Fluttershy asked.

“I hope it’s nothing…” Rose mumbled.

“What?” Red asked.

“I’m going to go put the girls to sleep.” Rose said as she stood up and picked Petal and Tulip up from their high chairs and carried them out of the room.

“Well how is everyone doing?” Fluttershy asked.

“Sleepy.” Alex said.

“Yeah. I’m feeling sleepy too.” Scootaloo nodded.

“You two did stuff yourselves full.” Torrent said.

“I loved it. The food was great!” Sam smiled.

“Yeah it was okay.” Gregor shrugged.

“I’m glad you all liked it.” R’yotta said. “Dessert is in the oven so it should be another hour before it’s done.”

“What ya makin?” Sam asked.

“A special kind of cake.” R’yotta said.

“Oooo I like special kinds of cakes!” Pinkie said.

“Then you’ll love this one.” R’yotta chuckled.

“Yeah if your dessert is as good as the rest of your food it’s mine.” Nicholas stated.

“No mine.” Cecil said, shoving his brother playfully.

“No.” Nicholas said, pushing Cecil roughly.

Cecil glared at Nicholas and tackled him to the floor.

“You two knock it off. If he has to he’ll just make another one.” Torrent chuckled.

“Already planning on it.” R’yotta said.

“Okay.” Nicholas and Cecil said, jumping back up into their chairs.

“I’ll be serving dessert in the living room so why don’t all of you go wait out there?” R’yotta asked.

Everyone except Sam and Gregor stood up, walking out to the living room.

“And what might you two be doing?” Torrent asked as he looked back into the dining room.

“Sam?” Twilight questioned, turning back and stopping in the archway to the living room.

Gregor and Sam were sitting on opposite sides of the table, leaning forward as they continued to stare at each other.

“If you two end up destroying part of the house you ARE rebuilding it.” Torrent said.

“Deal.” Gregor and Sam said, slamming their elbows on the table and gripping each other’s hands. “3, 2, 1 go.” They said, the veins in their arms visibly bulging as they added force to each other’s.

Twilight stared at the two intently, her eyes switching randomly between them.

Torrent sighed and shook his head as he walked away.

Elizabeth smirked as she watched the two arm wrestle, everyone else gathering back into the kitchen to stare.

“What’s going on?” Rose asked as she walked back into the living room.

“Battle of the century.” Dash said.

“Mmhm…” Nicholas mumbled, staring at Gregor.

“Sometimes I just don’t understand men.” Rose sighed as she leaned against the doorway to watch.

“That all ya got?” Gregor grunted. Everyone saw the table around their elbows cracking.

“Good luck fixing that.” Rose said.

“Shut it.” Gregor snapped.

“That’s... rude.” Sam said, his grip tightening.

“Yes, that’s very rude.” Rose said.

Gregor and Sam started to shake, sweat dripping down their faces. “You two okay?” Dash questioned.

“Someone’s going to give.” Torrent said.

Sam’s arm buckled slightly and his hand slowly moved towards the table.

Twilight stared wide eyed at Sam.

“This isn’t going to be good…” Alex said quietly.

Sam grinned and he immediately started to turn the tide, pushing Gregor’s hand toward his side. Everyone saw Sam’s horn giving off a faint glow. “Grhg… cheat!” Gregor growled as his hand roughly hit the table.

“That was a slight unfair advantage.” Torrent said.

“Well he shouldn’t have fought a changeling king.” Twilight laughed.

Gregor stood up and furiously stormed out of the house.

Rose sighed, “Come on everyone let’s wait for dessert.” She said.

“Sam watch out!” Twilight shouted. Sam tumbled back from his chair as a sword slammed down, cutting the kitchen table in half.

“What the fuck!” Torrent shouted in utter surprise.

“Little cunt I’ll teach ya!” Gregor snarled as he raised the sword again. Nicholas dove at him and grabbed his arm, only for the hilt of the sword to come in contact with his face and send him stumbling backwards to the floor.

“R’yotta what the hell do you think you’re doing?!?!” Torrent questioned.

R’yotta remained silent as he stepped out of the kitchen wielding his own blade.

“I ain’t got a problem with you, back the fuck off.” Gregor said, glaring at R’yotta.

“This building is a sanctuary. It will not be desecrated by some petty fight. If you’re going to kill him then we DO have a problem.” R’yotta said, returning the glare. “Now back away from Sam or I’ll be forced to attack.”

Twilight and Sam’s horn shot to life as if about to attack Gregor, only to fizzle out uselessly. “Wh… huh?” Twilight mumbled. Everyone turned to Elizabeth to see her horn giving off a constant glow, the black lines along it giving off a darker glow than the red of her normal magic.

“Now, let’s not make this unfair.” Elizabeth said.

R’yotta stepped calmly in between Gregor blocking his path to Sam and Twilight. “If this is a fight then fight it with another armed man. It’s cowardice to attack someone who’s defenseless and weaker then you.” He said.

Gregor chuckled and lowered his sword. “Fine. Where should we take this then?” He asked.

“Outside.” R’yotta stated.

Gregor turned and walked towards the door. “Do we really need to do this?” Cecil asked, on his knees beside Nicholas.

“I’m fine don’t worry about me…” Nicholas said sarcastically.

R’yotta silently followed Gregor out, his sword never lowering from its position in front of him.

Gregor stopped outside and readied his weapon. “Come on let’s finish this so I can start with the real fun.” He said.

“I’m not as simple an opponent as you think.” R’yotta said.

“Whatever, take the first swing.” Gregor ordered.

R’yotta remained unmoving as he watched Gregor.

“If that’s the way you want it!” Gregor said, swinging his sword downward toward R’yotta.

R’yotta sidestepped it and swung his katana at the opening Gregor had left him.

Gregor quickly spun around and his sword clashed with R’yotta’s.

R’yotta stepped back out of reach and watched Gregor carefully.

“That the best ya got?” Gregor chuckled, raising his sword and charging at R’yotta again.

R’yotta jumped to the side again, this time taking multiple swings at Gregor.

Gregor grunted as the sword openly cut his arm a few times. He swung his offhand at R’yotta, coming in contact with R’yotta’s left shoulder and dislocating it.

R’yotta continued to hold the blade tightly with his right hand.

Gregor stepped back, clenching the wounds on his right arm and giving a toothy grin.

“Celestia can’t you do something?!” Twilight pleaded. Celestia stood alongside everyone else, watching the fight with an almost serious look on her face.

“If this continues then both of us will die here.” R’yotta said, his tone just as sure and calm as it had been before. His eyes still never leaving Gregor’s. “And it’d be more than an honor for me to die to protect my family.”

“And I’d be happy to see you squirm under my blade.” Gregor said, about to charge again.

“That’s quite enough.” Elizabeth said. Gregor immediately stopped and looked back at her.

“Can’t I at least break a bone or two?” Gregor asked.

“I said that’s enough.” Elizabeth said sternly.

Gregor sheathed his sword and grumbled. “Fine…”

R’yotta sheathed his blade and grabbed his dislocated shoulder. He remained silent as he walked back to the house.

“Are you okay??” Scootaloo asked, quickly rushing up to R’yotta.

“Yes. As fine as I can be.” R’yotta said as he kicked the front door to the house open and walked inside.

“I’ll go check on him.” Torrent said as he quickly rushed in after R’yotta.

Rose was deathly silent as she closed her eyes and leaned back against the wall.

“Rose?” Alex asked.

“I feel it’s best if you all leaved.” Rose said bluntly, her eyes remaining shut.

“I could help with his arm.” Sam suggested.

Rose remained silent.

“Sam let’s go.” Twilight whispered, grabbing his hand and pulling him outside.

“Yeah…” Cecil said. Him, Nicholas, and Fluttershy both started walking past Gregor nervously.

Rose sighed, “If you want to stay and help clean up that’d be nice…” She said.

Sam nodded. “I’ll meet you back at home.” He said, kissing Twilight before waving her off.

“Just down the hall it should be the only sliding panel doors in the hall.” Rose said.

Sam nodded and rushed inside.

Elizabeth walked past Gregor and motioned him to follow. Everyone saw the puppy from earlier still in her arms.

Rose sighed, “I’m so stupid…” She quietly scolded herself.

“Something the matter? The trade was fair wasn’t it?” Elizabeth asked.

“No it’s not that.” Rose said as she turned and slowly walked back into the house.

“Good. Then I’ll be off. Come Gregor.” Elizabeth said as she and Gregor walked off.

“Are you going to be okay?” Celestia asked.

“No…” Rose said quietly as she disappeared back into the house.

Alex started to follow Rose into the house.

“Did you want us to help with anything?” Scootaloo asked, following quickly behind Alex.

“No. You two should head home.” Rose said.

“Are you sure?” Alex asked.

“We have a lot of cleaning up to do and I wouldn’t want to impose that on anyone else.” Rose said.

“Sorry… I feel like this is my fault.” Sam said apologetically.

“It wasn’t. You can’t go blaming yourself for something someone else did. You didn’t attempt to kill anyone… or slice our table in half.” Rose said comfortingly.

“I’m going to have a word with Nicholas. Perhaps he can give me some incite on these two.” Celestia sighed.

“This day just keeps getting worse…” Red said, putting his arm around Dash.

Dash’s eyes shot open. “Where are the babi-” She paused as she felt something tugging on her pant leg. She looked down and saw Star and Dusk clinging to her. She smiled and picked them up. “You had me worried…”

“Well I guess there’s nothing more we can do besides just heading home.” Red shrugged.

“Yeah I’m tired.” Scootaloo said, hugging Alex tightly. “Carry me.”

Alex smiled a little as he lifted Scootaloo up and held her against his body.

“Take me home slave!” Scootaloo giggled, pointing down the road.

“Whatever you w-” Red stopped.

Dash’s smile widened and she started laughing.

“Let’s just go…” Red grumbled.