I was standing on a beam of wood that was connected roof in Canterlot I was dressed in my assassin robes while my eyes scanned the city. It was the night of the summer sun celebration six days ago that Faust came to see me and inform me of what was going to happen tonight.

Flashback

I opened my eyes and was in Faust's library and the alicorn was standing in front of me with a knowing smirk on her face.

"What's with the look Faust?" I asked.

"So you slept with my daughter Luna did you?" Faust asked

"Don't tell me you saw that?" I asked in a really creped out.

"Of course not I'm not a pervert I can just smell her on you," Faust said.

"Wait you can smell her on me?" I asked confused.

"Yes it's something only Alicorns can do so don't worry about other's smelling you. Also you should be able to smell it too," Faust said.

"I thought I washed it off," I said.

"Don't worry Ash the scent will disappear on its own in a few days," Faust said.

"Well that's good to know," I said.

"Now about why I brought you here I found a Templar for you and the others to take care of," Faust said.

"I see and what's the target's name?" I asked.

"His name is Ornate Chest he's the pony in charge of the royal treasury he has been secretly supplying the Templars with bit's straight from the vaults and the nobles," Faust said.

"And he's also the one that went into Fancy's home and demand the money he asked for. Also explains why the pony from my home said he had the amount because Ornate can just look at the numbers in banks," I said.

"Yes he lives in a mansion in Canterlot no doubt he made his home out of stolen money," Faust said.

"We'll get it done Faust," I said.

"Thank you Ash also the guards are not the ones you've trained these ones are Templars so be cautious also I spoke to the knights about the Apple of Eden," Faust said.

"And?" I asked.

"We have agreed that the best place for it would be in the knight’s temple and their tomb," Faust said.

"Wait in a tomb for the five knights no offence Faust but won't grave robbers be a problem," I asked.

"No the place is located in the heart of the Everfree forest with a guardian watching the grounds also the insides are guarded by a series of traps that are almost impossible to get by. Also the tomb holds other Pieces of Eden which have been undisturbed to this day. No one else knows of the temple except for a few ponies that are long since dead," Faust said.

"Ok well this is gonna be fun care to tell me how I can get past the traps?" I asked.

"I'm sorry Ash but I couldn't if I wanted to because I don't know what they are only the knights know. Plus the traps are designed to be a test to prove if you are worthy of something," Faust said.

“Worthy but worthy of what?” I asked.

“You’ll know in time Ash,” Faust said

"Fine we'll start with the Templar before I leave for the temple," I said.

"Ash I have one request you take my children with you," Faust said.

"What Faust that's a bad idea bring the royals to a place that could become their tomb as well," I said in shock.

"I understand your worry Ash but they need to see the knights and give them a proper farewell," Faust said.

"I understand Luna, Chrysalis, Discord and Dream Catcher coming along but didn't Celestia place the knights in the tomb?" I asked.

"No the knights enchanted each other so when they died they would be teleported to their resting places inside the temple please let them come Ash if the wish too," Faust pleaded.

"I still say this is a bad idea but I can understand wishing to say goodbye I'll take them," I said.

"Thank you Ash and one last thing I've seen this a lot with you but you’re not afraid of being seriously hurt when someone is in harm’s way why is that?" Faust asked.

"It’s because I've lost so much in my life and now that I've actually found something that's so important to me I can't have them taken away. That something is Luna and the friendship's I've made with the others," I said.

"So you'll face Death himself in order to keep them safe?" Faust asked.

"Yes and die if necessary," I said.

"You say that as if you’re not afraid?" Faust asked.

I gave a small chuckle to the mare who returned my laugh with a look of confusion.

"Faust death is unavoidable for me so why fear it something unavoidable and when I do come face to face with the reaper. I'll do what I always planned to I'll face him with a smile on my face," I said before I left.

"Oh Ash if only you knew," Faust said after I disappeared.

"Hey Ash we doing this or not."

I looked behind to see Rage and the rest of the brotherhood were with me as well all of them wore their robes. We didn't bother to cloak ourselves in our shadows because no one will be there to recognize us.

"Sorry guys I was lost in thought for a minute," I said.

"It's fine and by the looks of the house it's going to be all too easy to just sneak in and kill our target," Soarin said.

"Yeah for someone with a lot of bits in his pocket I was expecting him to have more security," Spike said.

"It's because there hasn't been a threat made against these guys. As we kill the Templars the more security will be added," I said.

"Well if we’re going to attack I'd say we do it now," Pierce said.

"Alright remember I linked your minds together so whatever you say in your head will be transferred to another also spill as little blood as you can," I said.

"Right," the group replied in sync.

Each one of us took a separate way to the mansion I entered through the chimney while the others took their own paths. I landed in the fireplace of the second floor study and I was grateful that the chimney was cleaned recently so I didn't have too much soot on me. I then proceeded through the study and looked through the keyhole on the door to the study. I saw somepony walking to the door so I quickly moved away from the door and hid in the shadow of a grandfather clock. The door opened and I saw our target walk in. The stallion was a unicorn with a brown glossy slick mane and tail and tan yellow fur. He was wearing a black business suit and was carrying a candle with a yellow folder in his hand. Ornate Chest walked behind his desk and opened a draw and reached for the roof of the draw. I then heard a click and a secret compartment opened and Ornate Chest placed the folder inside he then closed the compartment and draw before he left.

"Guys target just left second floor study also I saw something that may be interesting," I thought.

"I see him he's heading into the bedroom I'll take care of it," Spike thought.

Very well hold off until we all arrive," I thought.

I walked over to the desk and opened the draw and flicked the switch and the compartment opened. I pulled out the folder and opened it and I saw a list of how much Ornate Chest has stolen from the vault and nobles. There was enough evidence to put him away for life I took the folder with me and walked out of the study carefully and quietly. I crept over to the bedroom and made a quick check to see if anyone was around before I walked inside. Once I was inside I saw everyone was already there with our target tied to a chair with a rag over his mouth and struggling to free himself. I walked over to Spike and patted him on the shoulder before I walked over to Ornate Chest. I crouched in front of him before I spoke.

"There's no point in struggling or screaming this room has a soundproof spell on it so no one can here you Templar," I said causing the pony to freeze in surprise at the last word I could see he wanted to talk so I removed the rag over his mouth.

"How did you know about that?" Ornate asked.

"Simple our brotherhood has been at war with the Templars for centauries all the way back to earth," I said.

"Your Ash Blade the knight of Equestria aren’t you?" Ornate asked.

"Very observant there's no way we were going to allow scum like you take Equestria so you might as well give up now," I said removing my hood and mask

"Our order will never die the father of understanding guides us into a new era. One ruled by the Templars and where the princesses are no longer in control," Ornate said.

"Well with this I could put you behind bars for life and expose you as an enemy to the princess," I said as I showed him the folder causing him to go wide eyed.

"You won't win when the guards find me to take me away I'll let them know who killed those ponies in that fake princesses tower," Ornate said.

I looked at Comet to see him reach for his weapon but I held my hand out to stop him.

"That's why tonight was your last," I said causing the look of fear to wash onto Ornate's face.

"No please no I'll keep quiet I won't say anything I'll even return what I stole," Ornate pleaded.

"You dug your grave when you sent your goons to kill Fancy Pants, Fleur and I," I said as I stood and turned around.

"No that was the Grand Master he ordered it," Ornate said.

"But you had a hand in it," I said as I placed my hood and mask over my face and walked over to Spike and placed a hand on his shoulder and whispered into his ear. "You caught him he's your kill unless you don't feel comfortable about it," I whispered.

"No I can do it," Spike said.

Spike walked over to the Ornate Chest while Ornate continued to plead for his life.

"Face your death with some courage," Spike said as he extended his hidden blade and stabbed Ornate in the throat.

Ornate let out a few gurgles as the blood entered his throat and blocked it. Spike then removed the blade and did a small prayer before he stepped away. I then walked over to Ornate's body and pulled off his necklace and handed it to Spike.

"To remind you why we do this," I said.

Spike gave me a nod and took the necklace and put it away before I turned to Caramel.

"Do you have it?" I asked.

Caramel handed me a photo of Ornate handing some of his Templar foot ponies a large bag of bits from earlier today. I gave Caramel a nod before I placed the folder and the photo on the bed and gave a nod to the others before we teleported to our den.

"Talk about a first mission," Mac said as we changed out of our robes.

"Yeah but I want to know who this Grand Master is," Comet said with anger in his voice

"Next Templar we meet we can ask real nice ok," Soarin said.

"Yes so far we don't know much but I promise we'll find out who sent those ponies to kill you guys. But for now let’s get you lot back home before your marefriends think your hanging out with some other mares," I said with a smile.

Next Morning

I was walking over to Twilights place for some kind of holiday party for National Random Holiday Party Day (don't ask me what it is cause Pinkie just gave me the title.) I walked inside and I saw all my friends were there. Pinkie just jumped out from behind me and shoved a leprechaun hat on my head. I just decided to go along with it and after that I'd get on with looking up a map to the heart of the Everfree forest and any info on the knights temple that I could dig up.

"How come nopony bothered to invite me," Rainbow said.

"I came to invite you personally but it seems you were a spec to busy reading the last Daring Do book for the 12th time," Applejack said.

"Yeah well in 3 months and 26 more days I'll be able to read the next one," Rainbow said taking a drink Twilight was levitating on a plate.

"Oh haven't you heard the release of the next book got pushed another two months," Twilight said causing Rainbow to spit out the drink in her mouth right in Twilights face.

"Two more months I've been waiting so long already I don't think I can take another two months I'll never make it," Rainbow said as she collapsed.

"Yeah I can vouch for that," Fluttershy said.

"Did they give a reason?" Rainbow asked.

"The publisher just said author A.K. Yearling won't be able to finish the book for another two months," Twilight said.

"How could you possibly know that before me? I'm the serious biggest fan," Rainbow said.

"I'm just as big a fan as you in fact I'm the one that first introduced you to the books remember," Twilight said.

"Oh right," Rainbow said.

"That and your mother edits the books Twilight," I said taking of the leprechaun hat and placing it on a table.

"Huh," Twilight and Rainbow said in union while the looked at me.

"You both didn't know honestly she's your mom Twi how could you not know?" I asked.

"Well I never really asked," Twilight said.

"How did you know that and when did you start reading Daring Do," Rainbow asked.

"Just because I have a lot on my plate it doesn't mean I don't read books in fact Daring Do reminds me of someone similar from my world called Indiana Jones. And for how I knew about Velvet being the editor she told me at Twi's coronation. I even saw her name marked as the editor on the book," I said as I pulled out a Daring Do book from a shelf and showed them Velvets name.

"Ok but who the hay is this Indiana Jones," Rainbow asked.

"He's like Daring Do but human and goes in search of artefacts of myth like when he went in search of the Holy Grail or El Dorado," I said.

"What are those two things," Twilight asked.

"The Holy Grail is a cup that whoever drinks from it will gain eternal life and El Dorado is an ancient city made entirely out of gold," I said.

"Whoa gotta give the guy props for that," Gilda said.

"Yeah but anyway back to the main topic A.K. Yearling just might be my favourite author I know everything about her. Where she grew up, where she studied literature, where she wrote the first Daring Do book," Twilight said.

"Where she lives?" Rainbow asked.

"Uh, no though I could probably find out somehow why?" Twilight asked.

"Don't you get it the new book is obviously delayed because she needs help dealing with whatever everyday nonsense is distracting her, from spending her every living breathing second writing so I...uh I mean fans like me can get to read the new book asap," Rainbow said.

"Rainbow you do realize this A.K. Yearling isn't some sort of machine programed to write you books," I said.

"I know that so what?" Rainbow asked.

"She has a life to live RD and you make it seem she isn't a pony that needs rest food and everything else she may also have hobbies she may want to do sheesh," I said as I rolled my eyes.

"But still we could do laundry, groceries, cook her meals whatever now who wouldn't appreciate that," Rainbow said.

"And not a word got through to her," I said as I face palmed.

"I don't know what she probably wants is respect for her privacy," Twilight said.

"She can always say no," Rainbow said.

Everyone in the group nodded except me.

"I suppose your right," Twilight said.

"Of course I am so how's about getting us that address," Rainbow said causing Twilight to glare at her.

"Well you guys have fun then," I said as I walked to the door.

"You’re not coming Ash?" Spike asked.

"No I'm not really needed on this adventure. I would of come but only if A.K. Yearling had info on the Temple of the Five Knights," I said.

"What’s the Temple of the Five Knights?" Twilight asked.

"In another word for it’s the knight’s tomb nopony knows it even exists anymore except me, Faust and now you guys and Faust has asked me to look for it," I said.

"Why is Faust sending you there anyway?" Applejack asked.

"Can't tell ya," I said.

"Well can we come?" Rainbow asked.

"No cause there's a 90% chance of dying," I said.

"Still not scared," Rainbow said.

"Rainbow what's more important going to probably die or go pester an author about a book you really like?" I asked.

"But Ash you could die too," Twilight said.

"Twilight Faust wouldn't have sent me on this trip if she knew I couldn't handle it," I said.

"I suppose that's true," Twilight said.

"Just have a little faith that I’ll be fine Twilight," I said.

"Ok well good luck Ash," Twilight said before I left.

Few days Later

"Ok according to this there are a total of 8 tests in this place," I said out loud.

I was in my library looking over a bunch of books before someone knocked on the door.

"Come in," I said.

"Ash your friends the princesses and Rage would like to see you," Feather said as she walked in.

"I was expecting the princesses and Rage but I had no idea my friends were back," I said.

"Shall I send them in," Feather asked

"Tell them to wait in the living room," I said.

Feather gave me a nod before she left while I turned back to have a final look at the book. I then walked out the door and over to the living room where I saw all my friends, the princesses Discord, Eris and Rage. There was also a new mare she had tan fur and dark coloured mane. She was wearing a long purple cloak glasses and a pink hat with a white ribbon and bow going around it and red glasses.

"When you mentioned your friend being different I never expected him to be the last guardian," the mare said.

"A guardian is Ash some type of sacred being for something?" Thunderlane asked.

"You have no idea," the mare said.

"Uh excuse me but what are you talking about and who are you," I asked.

"Oh where are my manners," the mare said as she removed her cloak, hat and glasses to reveal a kaki shirt and shorts and a pit helmet. She also had a whip attached to her hip and a satchel hanging from her shoulder diagonally. "Name’s Daring Do."

I was a little surprised to find out that the fictional main character of a story wasn't actually fictional.

"Well pleasure to meet you Miss Do," I said extending my hand shaking off the surprise.

"Please call me Daring Do and the pleasure is all mine," Daring said as she shook my hand.

"Ash have you seen the news?" Dream Catcher asked.

"About what," I said.

"It turns out that the royal treasurer Ornate Chest was responsible for the attempted assassination of Fancy Pants, Fleur and you. And quite possibly the elements of harmony and everyone else as well," Celestia said as she showed us the front page of the newspaper.

MURDERER OR HERO!

On the 10th of January the body of the royal treasurer Ornate Chest was discovered by a maid returning to work after vacation. She found her late employer tied to a chair in the bedroom with a stabbed throat. Royal Guard was soon notified and when arrived were baffled by a folder and picture. The picture was of Ornate Chest dealing with some ponies who wore the same clothing as the victims of the shadow vigilante from the attempted assassination of Princess Twilight Sparkle. And the contents of the folder are of recent thefts of money from the royal treasury and nobles throughout Canterlot. See more of story on page 6.

“So the vigilante struck again huh,” Rainbow said.

“Gotta this guy knows how to find stuff when it comes to seeking justice,” Gilda said

"Uh guys I need to talk to the princesses and Discord alone please," I said.

"Why only us?" Chrysalis asked.

"Are you still looking for the knight’s tomb?" Caramel asked.

The princesses, Discord and Daring Do gasped at what Caramel said while I shot him a glare.

"Yes I'm planning on going to the Temple of the Five Knights and Faust requested that the princesses and Discord should come with me to give a proper last goodbye to the knights," I said while I rubbed my eyes.

The princesses stayed silent at what I said before Celestia spoke.

"Why didn't you want the others here?" Celestia asked.

"Well I wanted to explain this to you myself and also if they herd you’re coming if you are no doubt they want to come as well. And I don't want to bring them because nearly every single pony that went into the place we're going has never returned," I said.

"If the risk is that high then why exactly do you think we should come along?" Discord asked.

"Hey I said this is a bad idea to Faust herself but she is the queen also I never said you have to come it's an option," I said.

"I'm going,"

Everyone looked at the source of the voice to see it was Luna who spoke.

"I need to see them," Luna said with a few tears.

"Same," Dream Catcher said with a few tears of her own.

Celestia, Chrysalis and Discord walked over and wrapped the two in a hug.

"We all do that's why we’re all going," Celestia said before she turned to my friends "Twilight I would like you and all your friends to come as well," Celestia said.

"Really," Twilight asked excitedly.

"Any problems Ash?" Celestia asked.

"I'd say this is a really bad idea but it appears in a situation like this I won't be able to change your mind," I said.

"What of you Daring Do?" Celestia asked.

"A new adventure to write and a chance to learn of the guardians how could I say no to that," Daring said.

"Great are we forgetting anyone else?" I asked sarcastically.

"Yeah my brother and Cadence should come?" Twilight said.

"Uh Twi I was being sarcastic," I said.

"Then it's settled we'll take few days off royal duty go find the knight’s tomb. We’ll meet back here tomorrow morning this will be exciting," Dream Catcher said before she left followed by Chrysalis, Celestia, Discord, Eris and Rage.

"Thank you so much for telling us this Ash," Luna said as she gave me a quick hug and kiss before she left to.

"C'mon everypony let's get ready for whatever were going to face," Applejack said.

"Hey Do where will you be staying?" Gilda asked.

"I'll rent out a room at a motel," Daring Do said before they all left.

Before I knew it I was alone in the room I just threw my hands in the air and walked to my room to lie down.

I was in the living room waiting for the group with a large bag to my side along Whispering Wind and my hidden blades. I also packed the Apple of Eden I told the immortals and maids about where I was going and to take a few days off and asked if they could take care of Dust. They were a little concerned about what was happening but I reassured them easily and agreed to look after Dust. Just then, Celestia, Chrysalis, Dream Catcher, Luna, Discord, Eris and Rage appeared with bags similar to mine.

"I'm surprised you didn't bring the Royal Guard," I said.

"It would have been too dangerous for them I fear," Celestia said

"Besides we have two handsome strong humans here to protect us," Luna added with a sultry smile.

Just then, the front door opened and I was knocked to the ground in an instant I looked at the pony who tackled me to see Cadence to see a worried look in her eye.

"Uh Cadence are you alright?" I asked.

"You were committed to slavery," Cadence slightly wept.

"Yeah my guess Shining told you," I said.

"Cadence!"

All of a sudden Shining and my friends came running in through the door.

"Uh Shining can you get your wife off me please?" I asked.

"Sorry Ash," Shining said as he helped Luna get Cadence off me,"

"What's going on?" I asked.

"Well I told Cadence your story and when Twilight showed her and me some memories of when she was in your head well this happened," Shining said.

"Ok Cadence it's alright and Twi what were you thinking showing her that?" I asked angrily at the purple.

"She wanted to see them I tried to say no but she gave me that look," Twilight said.

"What look?" I asked.

"The big sister look it's how they squeeze information out of younger siblings," Twilight said.

“I know what you mean,” Chrysalis said giving a look to Dream Catcher who just stuck out her tongue at Chrysalis

"Ok moving on yes I was once a slave and it was horrible for me everyone's on the same page now," I said.

"After all that how are you even sane?" Cadence asked when her tears were dried.

"Honestly Cadence I've been asking myself that question for a long time now," I said casually.

The room was silent as the grave now no one able to say a thing.

"Is everything alright?"

We turned our attention to the doorway to see Daring Do in her disguise and ready to go.

"Yeah just having a chat," I said as we walked to the door.

We walked through the streets of Ponyville gaining a strong amount of attention because of the undisguised princesses.

"Ash, Princess Luna, Princess Dream Catcher,"

We turned our heads in the direction of the voice to spy Pipsqueak running over to us.

"Hey Pip I haven't seen you in a while where are you off to?" I asked ruffling Pips mane.

"I'm off to the clubhouse to try and figure out how to get our cutie marks are you going on a dangerous adventure?" Pip asked.

"Dangerous is the right word for it but don't worry when I get back I'll tell about it kay," I said.

"You Pinkie Promise," Pip said.

"Cross my heart and hope to fly stick a cup cake in my eye," I said as I did the gestures.

Just then Pip gave me a hug I was surprised at the action but hugged him back unaware to me Luna let out a large smile at what she saw.

"Ok Pip we have to go and you have some friends to see," I said as I released him.

"Yeah take care Ash," Pip said.

"Also try and stay out of trouble!" I called after him.

"Yeah like that will ever happen Ash," Rage said slapping me on the shoulder as he passed behind me.

"One can hope though," I said as we walked over to the Everfree forest.

We walked for hours through the dese trees with me at the front and everyone else talking about things to keep themselves in a good mood. I stayed silent and kept my senses sharp for predators. We kept walking until we reached a large pond of water with a small waterfall coming from a ledge just above it.

"It's almost night time I suggest we make camp here," Celestia said.

"Agreed we can reach plenty of water here too so we can refill our canteens," I said.

Everyone unloaded their bags and pitched their tents while I went looking for firewood for a fire. When I came back the others were playing a few board games or just longing around or finishing placing some logs around a fire pit. I placed the wood by the fire pit before I grabbed a book I was looking at before we left and opened it to the page I was looking at. I them climbed into a tree that gave me a view of the camp. I looked at everyone and gave a nod of satisfaction before I turned to the book.

I returned to camp with some fish I caught for both Gilda and I it was late sunset and I could feel the warmth gently touching my back. I could see everyone was enjoying their meal while I savoured mine.

"Ash do you mind if I try a bit?"

I looked at my right to see it was Luna who asked me and she was giving me a pleading look.

"Try a bit of what?" I asked.

"Your dinner," Luna said.

And those were the words that caused the whole camp to go quiet not even the crickets were chirping.

"Uh sure and if you don't like it then just spit it out," I said.

Luna gave me a nod before she took a small piece of fish and placed in her mouth. Her face changed from a variety of unreadable expressions until she swallowed the fish and spoke.

"Not bad but I can see why carnivores like this," Luna said.

Everyone just stared at Luna no one knew what to say so I just said something simple.

"Glad you like it I guess," I said with a small smile before Luna leaned into me and started purring like a cat.

I then gave her a smile before I scratched gently behind her ear while she let out a relaxing sigh.

"Hey I don't know about the fish but if the Princess of the Night is enjoying that then I gotta try it too," Pinkie said as she appeared out of nowhere.

Pinkie then placed my left arm on her head I looked at Pinkie strangely before I scratched behind her ear. It wasn’t before she had the same look as she does when she thinks about frosting.

"My turn," Rainbow said as she pulled my hand away from Pinkie and placed it on her head indicating me to scratch behind her ear.

"I want a try," Cadence said as she removed my hand from Luna's head causing Luna to growl at Cadence in disapproval.

"Cadence I believe I made it perfectly clear to you that you already have a husband," Luna said.

"Yeah but he can't do this with his fingers ahh now I see why you like this so much auntie," Cadence said as I scratched her ear.

"Hey I want a turn," Twilight said.

"Same here," Chrysalis said.

"Me too," Applejack said.

Soon all the mares except Eris who was having her ears scratched by Rage were asking me to scratch behind their ears while the stallions gave me jealous glares. I was having a difficult time trying to keep these mares from fighting over me and trying to kill each other. I looked at the others and mouthed help which they responded by pulling their mares away. Spike, Rage, Discord and I restrained the princesses along with Gilda, Trixie and Daring Do.

"Ok listen all of you I only have so many hands to work with and you all have stallions who can do this besides me," I said.

"Not really when we tried with Shining it didn't work," Cadence said.

"We figured it may be some kind of human gift," Luna said.

"Well I'll have a look into it and see what I can do but right now I need to go over the plan for tomorrow," I said as I pulled out a chart and unrolled it revealing a map of the Everfree forest.

"Ash where did you get this?" Twilight asked.

"The knights left it for me to use but back to the main topic tomorrow morning we'll be entering the anti-magic zone," I said as I pointed to a large blank circle.

"Anti-magic zone?" Dream Catcher asked.

"Yes in this place all magic is cancelled out ranging from simple magic to flight and earth pony magic," I said.

"How is that possible?" Twilight asked shocked.

"The knights designed it so you can ask them when we get to the tomb," I said.

"Ash I've told you ghosts don't exist," Twilight said a little infuriated.

"And I said you’re entitled to your opinion just expect a big I told you so when we arrive. Oh and Celestia, Luna I did some research and found out that the zone, won't cut of your connections with both sun and moon so you'll still be in control of night and day," I said.

"That is good news," Celestia said.

"I don't like the sound of no magic in this zone it means we'll be easy prey for beasts," Luna said.

"Yeah I have good and bad news there," I said.

"Ok so what's the good news?" Thunderlane asked.

"Good news is no wild beasts go into the anti-magic zone," I said.

"Great and the bad news?" Eris asked.

"Yeah Faust mentioned a guardian that protects the place," I said.

"A g...g...guardian," Fluttershy stuttered.

"Yeah when I went to find out what it is the only thing that was mentioned were the words of an old explorer," I said.

"Really and what were his words?" Daring asked.

"He said he saw a giant faceless monster," I said.

"Faceless monster what does he mean by that?" Gilda asked.

"No idea he was crazy when somepony found him," I said.

"So what happened to him?" Trixie asked.

"He's still in an asylum kept in the suicide ward," I said earning gulps from everyone.

"Can we go home now?" Fluttershy asked.

"Don't sweat it Flutters monster or not I'll kick its flank into next year," Rainbow said while throwing a few air punches.

"Well glad to see you’re pumped up RD but I suggest you all go to bed I've got night watch," I said as I rolled up the map.

"Agreed all that walking has left me exhausted," Spike said.

"Yes I believe I shall retire as well goodnight everypony," Rarity said as she went inside a double storied tent.

Soon everypony crawled into their tents while I stayed out with the fire and the 8 glowing red eyes that were watching us through the night. Soon the lights in the tents went out and I heard the gentle snoring of the group and the unmistakable snoring of Rainbow Dash. I then turned my head and stood up to look at the eyes.

"Ok big boy it's just you and me now," I said as I pulled Whispering Wind out of its scabbard that was leaning on the log I was sitting on and walked over to face my opponent.

Daring woke up the next morning with a relaxed smile on her face she stretched out her wings and limbs. She got out her sleeping bag and put on some clean clothing and her pit helmet and opened the tent flap to breathe some fresh air. But, instead she smelt something disgusting she put a hand to her nose to block it out and went outside. As she put her foot on the ground she stepped into something sticky she looked at her foot to see a long silver wire holding her foot to the ground. She lifted her foot of the ground but whatever it was still held on. She grabbed her knife and cut the sticky substance and looked at the other tents to see rope similar to the one in fount of her. She looked at the rest of the camp and saw what made the rope. It was an incredibly large black spider that was bigger then Celestia. The arachnid was lying down with a sword pricing its skull and purple blood leaking from it. Daring looked around some more but couldn't find Ash anywhere she got a little worried and decided to look around. She walked over to the water fall and found Ash but she saw a little more then she would like to see. Ash was sitting underneath the waterfall naked while he was stitching a wound in his lower leg closed. He grimaced every time the needle pierced the skin and she could see all the different scars that littered his body including his metal arm. Just then, Ash closed the wound with a pull and cut the bit of thread before he stood up. He walked over to a towel and dried himself off before he went over to his clothes.

"You know it's not polite to stare at others especially when their like this," I said in an angry tone.

Daring's eyes widened in surprise before she ducked behind the ledge while I just rolled my eyes before I got dressed. Once I did I walked over to Daring and saw her face was completely red from what happened. She saw me approach and looked at the ground in embarrassment.

"I'm so sorry about that it's just that when I woke up and saw the spider and you weren't here I began to worry," Daring said.

"It's alright I should of got of rid of the spiders body anyway before I went to clean myself up," I said.

"Well why didn't you?" Daring asked.

"Damn thing poisoned me and I had to get the ingredients to make an antidote," I said.

"Wait you were poisoned!" Daring screamed.

"Shush you'll wake the others and yes I was poisoned and it wasn't the first time to," I said.

"Okay well sorry and if I may ask how'd you get those scars?" Daring asked.

"Well the others know so I guess it won't hurt to tell you but I was a slave for four years," I said.

"A slave?" Daring asked a little spooked.

"Yeah it's not pretty I know," I said.

"Can't imagine what that would be like to go through that," Daring said.

"It's best not to be thought about," I said.

"Right," Daring agreed.

"Well let's clean up this mess before the others wake up and give them a heart attack," I said as I began to walk towards the spider’s corpse.

"Too late," Daring said pointing to Rarity's tent.

I looked at the tent to see Rarity was in a state of shock and horror at the moment I remember her telling me she hates spiders. I looked at the spider then at Rarity and then thought a spider of this size was never a good idea to show to Rarity. I took a step towards Rarity and was about to get her to calm down but she let out an ear piercing scream. Soon everyone was out of their tents and looking around for what disturbed them. When they saw the spider they all started freaking out.

"Land snakes what is that thing?" Applejack asked in shock.

"I've never seen or heard of a spider like this before," Fluttershy said with fear.

"I'll get rid of it," I said as I grabbed Whispering Wind and pulled it out of the spider's head and lifted it with my magic and tossed it far into the forest. "Problem solved."

"What was that thing doing here in the first place?" Chrysalis asked.

"He was watching us through the night waiting for us to fall asleep," I said.

"Why didn't you say anything because?" Twilight asked.

"Cause I wanted to avoid giving Rarity a heart attack," I said gesturing to a terrified Rarity while Thunderlane tried to comfort her.

"You make a good point," Twilight said.

"So why didn't you clean this up sooner?" Rainbow asked.

"Oh I'd like to see you deal with a giant spider while you've been poisoned then clean the mess and look for ingredients to make an antidote and all before you all woke up," I said.

"Wait poison," Mac said.

"Are you ok?" Luna asked with concern.

"I'm fine the last of the poison should be gone now so I'll be fit to walk," I said as I went to pack my gear.

The group just looked at me in a little worry before they all went to have breakfast.

The stallions and I along with Rage were packing up camp while the girls were having a bath in the small pond and Discord was napping in a tree.

"He may be a legendary god of chaos but would it kill him to I don't know pitch in and help us," Caramel said.

"Would you prefer him to be awake and have him bring the tent to life or some animals to attack?" Spike asked.

"Hey don't forget the training we have thanks to Ash we'll be able to beat a wild beast any day of the week," Rage said.

"Hey not so loud we want to keep that hidden remember," Comet said.

"I know I know I'm not an idiot," Rage said.

Just then the girls started laughing and there was a lot of splashing.

"Sounds like their having fun," I said.

"You wanna go have a peek you know we're supposed to right," Soarin said.

"I don't wanna die just yet because if I did I would have let the spider do the honours," I said.

"You’re just scared of being caught aren’t you," Soarin teased before he walked over to the small ledge that separated our view from the girls.

"No I'm just not an idiot like you," I whispered.

"How long do you think of a look he's gonna get?" Rage asked looking at Soarin as he peeked around the corner of the ledge.

"Not long I'd say he'll feel plenty of pain in about 3...2...and 1," I said and as I finished Soarin was shot in the face and was sent flying into the tree Discord was resting in. "Oooo he'll feel that one tomorrow," I said with a grimace while the rest of the boys laughed at Soarin's misfortune.

"I'd say you'd had that one coming to you Soarin," Mac laughed.

We shared a laugh as Soarin got up and limped over to us while holding his face.

"Say what you want but that view was totally worth it and will be forever more burned into my mind," Soarin said as a little blood escaped his nose either from the magic blast or from his perverted mind I couldn't tell.

"Well care to give us a hand or are you going back for more trouble?" I asked.

Soarin just rolled his eyes before he walked over to us and helped us finish packing before the mares returned.

"If I may ask which one of you fine mares gave Soarin here the shock of his lifetime," Pierce asked.

"I believe that would go to me," Chrysalis said with a prideful smirk.

"And if he tries that again he'll be sorry," Rainbow said while cracking her knuckles.

"Anyway we packed everything up all we need to do now is get long and lazy out of his tree," Caramel said gesturing to Discord.

"Allow me to try," I said I walked over to the tree

I drew Whispering Wind and used the wind slice to cut the branch Discord was sleeping on causing him to fall from the tree and hit on the ground hard. He gripped his head while little birds flew in circles around his head before he shook his head before he gave me a glare.

"You could have woken me in a nicer way," Discord said.

"True but where's the fun in that," I said.

We walked for three hours before we came to a shadow like wall in the trees I was able to see through the shadow but it was just darker on the other side. This indicated that this wall was the anti-magic dome if you flew over the dome the only thing you'd see were trees and nothing more. I walked over to the wall and placed my hand in it. The wall shadow then wrapped around my hand like a silk glove. I pulled my hand away and the shadow returned to its original form before I addressed the group.

"This is the entrance to the anti-magic dome so a reminder magic flight or earth pony strength will not be able to help you here," I said.

Everyone gave me a nod before I turned around and entered the dome it was a thin layer of shadow. Once I passed through I felt like my breath was grabbed then pulled out of my lungs I steadied myself and found my breath again. I then gestured for the others to come through once they came through the also shared the effects.

"That was something," Daring said.

"True but its best if we keep moving the guardian probably knows were here," I said.

Everyone gave me a nod in agreement before they picked up their stuff and we continued into the forest. This part of the forest had few words to describe it eerie and creepy and light fog covered the ground. I looked at the group to see some of them were jumping at shadows Fluttershy was the most terrified. I slowed down and placed a wing over her causing her to look at me while I gave her a reassuring smile which she returned with a smile of her own. I then walked ahead of the group until I caught wind of something. I held out my hand to tell everyone to stop I gave the air a few more sniffs before I drew Whispering Wind. I then walked through the bushes and came into a small clearing with fog everywhere. I walked into the clearing but kept my blade at the ready and scanned the fog for any movement. As I walked to the centre and stepped on something I looked down to see it was a piece of paper with something written on it. I picked up the paper to see what was written on it.

THERE'S NO ESCAPING IT!

I looked carefully at the writing to see it was written in blood just then something wet hit my head. I touched the spot on my head and brought my fingers to view to see blood. Another drop landed on my head so I looked up to see a pair of hooves dangling just outside the fog. Slowly the fog cleared away but I wished it stayed. The view presented to me and the group were hundreds of corpses either hanging from branches also either in or on tree trunks or tied to posts and giant X's. I was actually a little scared of the sight before us and I knew Flutters was not taking this well. Many of the corpses were old while few were fresher then the others. Also a good majority of them were brutally butchered some were ripped in half. It brought back memories of my enslavement there was a majority of corpses ranging from pony to griffin, diamond dog, Minotaur, dragon and other species.

"Well I guess we found out what happened to the victims of the guardian," Rage said.

"He's warning us to leave or we face what these guys faced," I said.

"What could have done all this?" Celestia asked as she looked at the massacre with disgust.

"Personally Celestia I really don't want to find out so I suggest we get out of here before we're next," I said as I dropped the letter

I looked around and found an exit out of the clearing problem was it was a large pit filled with corpses and blood and a ledge on the other side.

"Ok how do we get over that?" Daring asked.

"I absolutely refuse to get in there," Rarity said with disgust.

I rolled my eyes before I took off my bag and grabbed some rope and handed it to Rage.

"Tie that to a tree for me would you," I said before I took the other end of the rope and jumped into the pit much to everyone's shock.

The blood was higher then I thought and I managed to hit the bottom. I leaped off the bottom and reached the surface pushing a corpse off of me in the process. I then swam over to the ledge and pulled myself out of the blooded pit and onto the ledge. I tried to wipe off all the blood on my body before I tied the rope to a tree and made sure it was secure. I looked at the group to see their faces showed shock and horror on their faces. I was confused why they had those looks on their faces before I looked at myself to see the blood may be freaking them out.

"Come on guys it's just a little blood it's not like I haven’t been covered in it before," I said.

"Ash behind you!" Rage called.

I was a little confused by what he said but suddenly something wrapped around me and pulled me into the thick fog. I was then flung into the air and landed into the trunk of a tree resulting a shock of pain to hit me all the way through my body. I then fell face first into the ground and tried to stand up but only managed to get onto my elbows. I then lifted my head up to see what attacked me only to see something terrifying. It was a tall skinny pony but stood on four hooves and wore a black tuxedo top with a red tie. It had pale white fur and black wiggling tentacles grew out of its back and acted like spider legs making the pony taller. For its cutie mark it had a red circle with a red x going through it the creature didn't have a face just a white pony head. The pony stepped closer to me and I panicked a bit and scrambled backwards and went to draw Whispering Wind. But I wasn't fast enough for the creature grabbed me with his tentacles again and threw me into another tree. A good majority of contents in my bag spilled out and I thought the creature seemed to be toying with me. I got up again and I saw the creature had stopped moving and was just standing there. I was confused until a tentacle reached out with a tentacle. I was about to go for Whispering Wind again but the creature didn't go for me instead it reached for something else. I followed the tentacle and saw it grab the Apple of Eden and watched as the creature brought the Piece of Eden to its head. The creature stared at it before its head turned back to me I gave the creature a glare as I stood up and got ready for anything. But, instead of attacking me I was shocked as the creature's tentacles lowered its body to the ground and the tentacles folded against its sides making them look like wings. The tentacle holding the Piece of Eden remained beside its head the creature then turned to me and a ghostly whisper echoed in my head which I assumed belonged to the creature.

"Who are you and why do you have this sacred artefact did you sneak into the temple and take it while my back was turned?"

I shook off the eerie feeling running down my neck before I spoke

"I am Ash Blade sixth knight of Equestria and the knight of freedom I did not steal the Piece of Eden it was hidden in a rock structure called the hydra's tonsils. Faust has asked me to place it in the knight’s tomb for safe keeping," I said.

The creature reared back a bit when I said Faust then he circled me looking me over I stayed calm and waited for him to respond. The creature then stopped in front of me before it spoke.

"If you are who you say you are you must show me your mark to see if you really are who you say,"

I nodded to the creature before I rolled up my sleeve to reveal the cutie mark on my shoulder. The creature gave another nod to me before he placed the Apple of Eden into my bag along with the other items that fell out.

"I have been waiting for you for a long time it is truly an honour to be in your presence," the creature said before he tucked one of his fore hooves underneath himself and bowed deeply.

"Ash are you alright?!"

I turned my head to the voice to see all my friends run through the fog but stop dead in their tracks when they saw the company I had. The creature stood up and the tentacles exploded from his sides and was ready to attack.

"Whoa wait they're with me," I said as I stepped in between the creature and my friends the creature folded his tentacles once more and lost his attack stance while the others stared at me in shock. "It's alright guys he won't hurt us," I said to the group.

"What about when that thing grabbed you!" Rainbow cried.

"I apologize for grabbing Ash like that but in my defence I thought he was another grave robber or someone who came to destroy my home like so many before. Also I would like you to us my proper name Slender," Slender said causing some in the group to jump at the echoes inside their heads.

"Well I can understand you wish to protect your home and such Slender but killing them is not the way to go," Celestia said.

"I would have just told them to leave but they attacked first so I had to defend myself. Also I have a sacred duty to protect and care for the knights temple from intruders who would try and steal what lie inside its walls," Slender said.

"Well he makes a good point there," Rage said.

"And who exactly asked you to protect this place?" Luna asked.

"It was your mother Queen Faust Princess Luna she and I have been friends for a very long time and we first met in Dream Valley. I even knew all of you when you all were still in dippers," Slender said causing Luna t scowl at Slender in anger.

"Wait you were in Dream Valley!" Celestia cried in shock.

"But of course I was the tree sprit that watched over the forests," Slender said.

The others and I were confused at what was going on until I spoke.

"Slender could you please lead us to the temple it's important," I said.

Slender nodded before he turned to a large wall of trees all of a sudden a black horn pushed its way out of its forehead and was then covered in a pale aura. Slender flicked his head and the wall of trees seemed to split and made a pathway for us to walk through. The horn on Slender's head retracted back into his head before he stepped forward. Slender then gestured for us to follow before we walked behind him.

"I still don't trust him," Rainbow said.

"Why if he wanted us dead he would have done it by now," I said.

"Well maybe he's just taking his time to pick us off one by one," Twilight said.

"Still that tuxedo he's wearing suits him nicely he mast really appreciate fashion," Rarity said.

"Forget the clothes Rarity we have more important things to deal with by deciding if he's dangerous or not," Applejack said.

"Alright that's enough from all of you look I know all of you have an uneasy feeling right now but I don't want any of you bad mouthing Slender," I said.

"I agree least we can do is give him a chance," Fluttershy said.

The mane 6 lowered their heads knowing deep down we were right we continued to walk and soon saw light at the end of the tunnel. We exited the forest and I shielded my eyes from the light of the sun after walking through the dark and fog. My eyes adjusted to the light and once they did I saw a magnificent sight.

"This is nothing like I was expecting," I said.

"Indeed it must have taken the knights years to create this," Celestia said.

"What are we waiting for let's go," Pinkie said excitedly before she bounced over to the temple with us not to far behind.

We entered the gardens to see all sorts of animals Fluttershy and Chrysalis couldn't keep their smiles off their faces. All the animals walked over to us and all the birds landed on Slender's outstretched tentacles.

"They really like you," Chrysalis said.

"Each one of these critters had their home destroyed long ago so I brought them here where I can watch over them," Slender said.

"Oh dear you poor little things," Fluttershy said as she petted a squirrel.

"So you've been taking care of this place for centuries?" I asked.

"Yes but I enjoy it its peaceful here no fuss no trouble just me the animals the temple the lake the trees and the sky," Slender said.

"Well its sunset guys we'd better go inside and make camp," I said.

"If you’re going to make a fire please use dead tree branches it hurts a lot if you cut down a live one," Slender said.

"Of course Slender I'll make sure," I said.

"Thank you oh and before I forget this temple has three purposes," Slender said.

"Three purposes and what are they?" I asked.

"It's a vault and a tomb like you've been told but also a prison," Slender said.

"A prison for what exactly?" Chrysalis asked.

"I don't know all the names except for one War Sword the alicorn of war and bloodshed," Slender said.

"Sounds intimidating but I'm not scared yet," I said.

"May Faust guide your way knight of freedom," Slender said before he walked away.

I turned my attention to the group and gave them a nod before I walked up the stairs to the main doors were made of stone and was large enough to fit a full grown dragon. Images were carved into the stone doors in perfect detail of hundreds of demons and other evils piled upon each other. The five knights stood on top victorious with both the sun and moon behind them. I walked up to the doors and gave them a push and the doors swung open with ease. I walked inside to see the room was circular and enormous decorated with golden yellows, blues and reds. Pillars held up the walls and banners with the knight’s marks circled the room including mine. All perfectly preserved Rarity was gazing at each one completely lost for words. But what had most of everyone's attention was the ceiling it was like someone pulled out a piece of the sky and placed it in here. There were even pictures of the knight’s battles along the walls. The group spread out to enjoy the sight while I walked over to the back of the room and looked at a doorway that leads further into the temple. It was a simple square doorway but what made it interesting was that a statue of Faust stood on top. She had her wings outstretched and the sun and moon on either side of her. I continued to look at the statue before I walked over to the group who were setting up their sleeping bags. Rage and Mac found a fire basin and a stand and set it up in the centre of the room for us to make a fire.

I was sitting by the fire with the others each one of us telling all sorts of jokes and fun things. It was like I was back in the cell only I had my new friends and I didn't have to fight in the pit and have no more worries it brought a smile to my face.

"Hey Ash I never got to ask but how was it with Luna was she inexperienced?" Celestia asked with a shit eating grin.

"What?" I asked.

"Was she too tight?" Celestia asked.

"Oh for the love of Pete just say it and save us all embarrassment Celestia," I said as I rubbed my eyes.

So you diddled dearest darling little sister," Celestia said before she lost her composure and laughed her head off.

"TIA!" Luna screamed in embarrassment.

"Diddled that makes me sound like a paedophile Celestia," I said with disgust.

"So you lost your virginity to the beautiful princess of the night when exactly were you going to tell me," Rage said grabbing me in a head lock and rubbing the top of my head hard.

"It wasn't your business to know so why should I have told you," I said as I pushed Rage away from me.

"So what was it like?" Thunderlane asked earning him a slap from Rarity but I could tell she wanted to know to.

"It was better then I imagined but I was inexperienced," I admitted.

"That's nothing to be ashamed of and from what Auntie Luna told me you pulled of a few tricks," Cadence said her voice was sincere.

I gave a smile to Cadence before Luna laid her head on my shoulder.

"Hey Ash you know those two songs the one the stallions, Rage and I sang with you and the one where you got your violin why don’t let's play those to lighten the mood," Spike suggested.

"Good idea Spike c'mon you guys give me a hand," I said as I stood up and pulled the case for my violin out of my bag and walked in fount of the audience with the stallions, Rage and Spike.

Big Mac had a banjo while Rage had a guitar while Caramel sat on a box and started a beat

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YboK-SAWpIg

After the song the audience clapped I gave a gesture to settle down before I selected some background music on my IPod for a familiar song.

(Sorry about background noise)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KemgGyFUAS0

As I played the song everyone joined in we were all singing I even saw Discord dance with Fluttershy. It was truly one of the best moments of my life once the song ended the stallions, Rage, Spike and I took our seats once more.

"You never told us that was a pirate song," Gilda said.

"I don't remember you asking me," I said causing us to laugh.

"Ash in all seriousness we know why we’re here but not why you’re here," Chrysalis said.

"Yeah how come you wanted to come here anyway?" Rainbow asked.

I took a breath before I looked at everyone.

"I was actually hoping to avoid this but I suppose it can't be helped now," I said as I went over to my backpack and pulled out the Piece of Eden. Causing the ones who didn't know about it stared in wonder.

"Ash what is that thing?" Twilight asked.

"This artefact Twilight is as old as time itself it belonged to my planets first civilization," I said.

"Wait first civilization?" Twilight asked with surprise.

"Yeah my planet had at least three civilizations before mine first is the civilization where this came from that relied on technology. Then there's Links civilization which relied on magic then Corvo's which relied on both magic and technology. Finally mine where Altair, Ezio and Arno also came from which relies on technology," I said.

"Wait what happened to each civilization before the other appeared?" Daring asked.

"Same thing that happened to all of them a solar storm wiped out as many living things as possible," I said.

Everyone was a little shocked at what I said some even gave Celestia a strange look.

"But what does this thing have to do with you being here?" Luna asked.

"Faust asked me to seal this away along with the others so that no one can use them," I said.

"Why it looks harmless,' Discord said.

"Maybe you don't know this Discord but your mom is wiser than all of us combined and if she asks us to seal something away she has a reason for it," I said.

"So in other words you don' know what it does," Trixie said.

"I actually do know what it does I just wanted to make a point," I said.

"So what does it do already?" Applejack asked impatiently.

"It bends the laws of reality to your will," I said.

I let my words sink in to everyone before I heard Rainbow snicker before she burst out laughing before she calmed down enough to speak.

"That's a good one Ash that puny thing can bend reality to your will," Rainbow said before she fell back into laughing.

"Ok how about we try this then," I said as I activated the Apple of Eden.

All of a sudden everything started floating except me and the fire place and Rainbow stopped laughing.

"Hey what the heck is going on here?" Rainbow asked trying to get back to the ground even trying to flap her wings but it was useless.

"Think of it as flicking a switch to turn off the gravity," I said.

"This is fun," Pinkie said doing somersaults.

"Uh Ash can you bring us down now?" Rarity asked.

I gave her a smile before I set everyone and everything down gently.

"Ash why didn't you use that for earlier purposes it would have helped us out so many times?" Eris asked.

I was about to respond but all of a sudden I started coughing violently and covered my mouth. Once I was done I removed my hand to see blood covering it before I showed the others only for them to gasp in shock.

"Because it comes at a price," I answered.

The others went silent as I put the Apple of Eden in the upper half of my left arm for safe keeping.

"There's also something else I need to discuss with all of you," I said gaining everyone's attention. "There are going to be a series of trials awaiting us in the temple and Faust told me it must be me and me alone that clears the traps ahead because it's a test from the knight to see if I'm worthy," I said.

"Worthy but worthy of what though?" Luna asked.

"That I do not know," I said.

"Well I suggest we get some sleep it's going to be a long day tomorrow," Rage said.

Each of us nodded in agreement before we settled down in our sleeping bags and Luna cuddled close to me and I draped a wing over her for extra warmth and fell asleep.