"HE SURVIVED A 600ft DROP FROM THE CANTERLOT WATERFALL HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE?!" Rainbow Dash yelled as the royal carriage made its way to Ponyville. The six mares and Princess Luna were listening to Celestia's tale of how she meet the mysterious wolf

"I don't know how he survived all I know is that he survived the fall," Celestia said in a calm tone, as the main six and Luna stared at Celestia, hanging on every word of the tale, looking at her with awe in their eyes.

"What happened then princess?" Twilight asked looking up at her Mentor with expression to learn more on her face.

"I sent my guards to go look for his body but the only thing we found were some fish bones and two dead Timberwolves, one had its chest ripped open the other had its head and spine torn from its body, and there was a tree sap trail leading into the forest." Celestia finished with a grim expression on her face while the others looked like they were going to be sick.

"That's horrible! How can he kill creatures like that?" Fluttershy asked her face turning green.

"Then what princess?" Twilight asked, swallowing her breakfast before it could leave her mouth.

"I called off the search, it would have been too dangerous for my guards to follow," Celestia said.

"Twilight do you think we will be able to see him again? Because I need to throw him thanks for saving Twilight and helping stop Nightmare Moon, and a welcome to Equestria party," a pink mare said.

"I don't know Pinkie, he told me he doesn't trust any of us right now, but he did say when we have earned his trust he will come to us," Twilight said as she turned her head back to the Everfree forest. "Oh, by the way princess, what did you mean when you said you know what his species is and why he is here? Does it have something to do with those creatures called humans?" Twilight said turning her head to face the white princess.

Celestia looked at everyone present in the carriage and sighed. "I think it’s best to start at the beginning. After the three tribes came together, a dark force rose from the shadows to try and take over Equestria. The dark army would have overwhelmed us, if it weren't for our mother who searched the universe for help. When she returned she brought five heroes to our world, a race called humans. They were a group of intelligent bald apes, that stood on two legs, had small eyes and muzzles, and their clothing was different from ours along with their weapons. I have never seen such strange creatures before, but how they performed in battle was extraordinary, it only took one of them to bring down an army of three hundred demons." The six mares had their mouths open in both shock and awe after hearing how much damage one of them could do.

"Over time the war ended and they stayed in Equestria. Luna and I became close with them, they had a kind and gentle side to themselves and often showed it when they weren't in battle, and were great protectors and kept our lands at peace. They eventually became known as the five knights of Equestria"

"What happened to them and why haven't I heard of them before?" Twilight asked

Hearing this Celestia's face fell. "The last event involving them was when Nightmare Moon appeared. I watched when they fought, but they didn't attack her because as you know, Luna turned into Nightmare Moon, and they would not attack the ones they swore to protect. So instead they tried to reason with her but failed. Eventually Nightmare Moon claimed their lives and I thought It be best I erase them from history."

After listening to the story Luna broke down into hard sobs burying her face in her hands. Celestia placed a comforting wing around Luna, softly speaking soothing words to calm her sister.

"It’s my fault! It’s entirely my fault!" Luna wailed.

"No Luna, it’s not your fault," Celestia said

"Yes it is Tia, if I hadn't turned into that monster then they would still all be alive and well," Luna half said and half sobbed. The carriage was silent for a few minutes, listening to the sobs of the Luna princess. Eventually she stopped and sat in silence, only to be broken when Twilight spoke.

"Princess what exactly do these humans have to do with the wolf?" She said everyone looked at the princess awaiting her answer.

Celestia looked at Twilight and sighed "One day as Luna and I were walking in the halls of our old home I saw Starswirl the bearded speaking with one of the knights about there being another knight. Starswirl showed him a picture of the mark you drew Twilight and he said that this symbol will lead him to the one he seeks. Before he died the knight asked me to look for the sixth knight in their place, and said he would be able to achieve what they couldn't and that mark appears to be on our mysterious wolf."

"So that wolf is a human and one of these so called legendary knights" Rainbow Dash asked with a smug grin.

"Yes that is correct Twilight, you said he would reveal himself to you if you earn his trust correct?" Celestia asked turning her attention to Twilight.

"Yes princess that's what he said, why?" Twilight asked

"As soon as he shows himself, contact me immediately, I must speak with him," Celestia instructed.

Three Weeks Later

It’s been three weeks since the incident with Nightmare Moon and life has been the same. Wake up, find food, explore the forest, avoid beasts and keep eyes out for the six mares. Dust has also learned how to fly and is learning how to find his own food. But he won't leave me, it's like I'm a big brother to him and I wouldn't have it any other way. We have been staying in the castle and I managed to find a library and have done some research on the humans. But my results so far have come up as 0. I gave a frustrated sigh and slammed my latest read closed.

"This doesn't make any sense, there should be some info on these humans Nightmare Moon mentioned. Unless she was lying? But still I need to find out!"

*Squawk* I nearly jumped out of my chair when I heard a familiar black bird squawking and flying through a broken window.

"Oh...hey Dust how was the flight?" I said as Dust landed on the table letting out a positive squawk

"I'm glad," *sigh* Dust took a hop over to me and tapped his beak on the book I was reading.

"Not going so well but I need to take a break and grab some food. Care to join me?" My response was a nod, so with that Dust flew onto my back and we were off.

We came to the river and I caught some fish while Dust grabbed some bugs. I just finished and sat down and looked at the sky and stared thinking about the six mares. I closed my eyes and listened to the sounds around me and became completely lost in thought.

"AHHHHHHHHHH"

I suddenly heard a scream and quickly scrambled to my feet and ran in the direction of the scream Dust flying close behind me. I ran through the forest at breakneck speed approaching my destination, I jumped through the trees and landed in a clearing and saw three frightened little filly's. One of them has a red mane and tail and yellow fur and orange eye's, she had a pink bow in her mane and was wearing blue jeans and a green shirt, both slightly covered in mud. Next was an orange furred Pegasus with purple spiked mane and tail, along with violet eyes. She was wearing a grey hoodie and green shorts. The last was a white unicorn filly with a pink and purple mane and tail and light green eyes. She was wearing a yellow skirt and purple and white horizontal striped shirt and dark pink coat. They were huddled together in fear as a Manticore licked its lips and crawled towards the terrified fillies. I bolted towards the Manticore and jumped on its back and started biting into its fur. The beast let out a growl in pain and tried to shack me off, but I managed to hold on. I was eventually knocked off the beast when it used its tail as a makeshift bat and knocked me towards the tree line. I got back on all fours and looked at the Manticore to see it charging at me, my back was touching a tree. Looking at the tree I quickly came up with an idea, as the beast continued to charge at me I ran towards the Manticore and pounced on its head and leapt over it, just missing its tail, leaving the Manticore to run head first into a tree. It recovered from the blow quickly and turned to face me only to meet my claws scratching his face. It looked at me again, but I simply glared at him and growled. We locked eyes for a while before the Manticore turned around and went back into the forest defeated.

"Pfft, thought he would put up more of a fight," I thought as I watched the Manticore leave.

I turned my attention to the three still trembling fillies and walked over to them calmly and slowly so they wouldn't see me as a threat. I sat in front of them and lay down on the ground so I didn't look intimidating and stared at the three.

"Gee thanks for the save!" the yellow furred filly said as she unwrapped herself from her friends.

"Hey no sweat," I said as I stood, only for the three filly's eyes to widen in shock.

"Wait a sec did you just say something?" the unicorn asked

"Uh yeah I did," I replied plainly

"Wow! That so cool I'm going to keep you!" the Pegasus claimed

"Oi! I'm not a pet for you guys. So no, you’re not going to keep me! Geez, do I need to explain this to everyone?!" I said with a slightly raised voice and an irritated sigh.

The orange Pegasus sat there stunned at my words and looked down at the ground "sorry" she said as she looked up at me.

Taking a deep breath I lowered my head and spoke in a calm voice, "It’s alright I guess. It’s because of this body. You guys would think that. So I should be sorry for snapping at you." I said with a smile as I extended my paw to help the Pegasus off the ground. She reached out and accepted my paw and I pulled her off the ground. When she was on her hooves, she collapsed and cried out in pain.

"Are you alright?" I asked with concern.

"I hurt my ankle when we were running from the Manticore," she replied "um, do you think you could help us?"

I looked at the fillies and thought about my answer, thinking about seeing those six mares and what to say, if or when I run into them I looked to Dust who flew out of a tree where he'd watched the fight and landed next to me. His response .was a simple nod. I smiled and nodded back before I looked back at the fillies.

"Alright, hop on. I'll carry all of you," I said as I lowered myself so they could climb on.

The filly’s eyes widened with excitement, the earth pony and unicorn helped the injured Pegasus onto my back before they climbed on themselves.

"Oomph" I said as the last filly climbed on.

"Are you alright?" the unicorn asked.

"Fine, it’s just that I've never had three passengers before," I said with a smile "so where do you girls live?"

"That way," the red maned filly said pointing to a trail that led into the trees.

I gave a nod before I walked off into the trees Dust flying close behind me. We spent half the walk in silence, the only sound was my feet padding along the trail and Dust's wings flapping. I was keeping my eyes and ears sharp for predators. I thought of a way to make the trip a little more pleasant.

"So what exactly are you three doing in this dangerous place?" I asked, turning my head to look at the three.

"Well, we have been trying to get our cutie marks in Manticore taming," the yellow filly spoke up.

"That's really dangerous, you could have been killed, you know that you three are lucky I came along? Otherwise you would have been his lunch," I said in a stern voice.

"Yeah, I guess we didn't think that one through," the yellow filly said in a sad tone.

"Well the important thing is your alive and that you learned a valuable lesson. Never mess with a dangerous animal ok?" I said with a smile and the yellow filly smiled back.

"So you guys are looking for your cutie marks am I right?" My answer was nods from each filly.

"Yep, I'm Apple Bloom," the yellow filly said.

"I'm Sweetie Belle," the white unicorn said.

"And I'm Scootaloo," the Pegasus said

"And we are THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS!" they screamed in union.

"So you guys go around and do stuff to get a picture on your thighs?" I asked.

"Yeah how do you know that?" Scootaloo asked.

"Because I have a cutie mark," I answered.

"Liar! Only ponies get cutie marks, not wolves!" Sweetie Belle said.

"Oh then what's that on my thigh?" I asked them all with a smug grin.

The three fillies looked at me in confusion before looking at my thigh and gasped in astonishment.

"Whoa! That cutie mark is totally wicked! What does it mean?" Scootaloo asked.

"Don't know, but I'll find out," I said with a smile.

I saw light up ahead which told me we were coming close to exiting the forest. I stepped into the light and shielded my eyes from the brightness. Once my eyes adjusted, I looked around at a vast field filled with grass. Looking beyond the field I saw a village.

"Is that it over there?" I asked looking at the fillies.

"Yeah that's Ponyville over there. Let's get Scootaloo over to my house, I'm sure my big sister can help her," Apple Bloom said

Nodding my head in agreement I walked over to the path that led into town. As we got closer I started to see more bipedal ponies going about their daily business. Some of the locals gave me looks of fear, while others ran inside and locked their doors and closed their shutters. But I just kept walking, following Apple Blooms directions until we came to a vast orchard of trees with apples growing on them. I followed the dirt path until I came to an old farm house. On the porch, sitting in an old rocking chair asleep was an elderly mare with green fur and a white mane done up in a bun. Her brown and cream dress hid her tail and she was wearing an orange scarf with pictures of apples on it and white frills. She was also wearing a frilly white apron with a picture of an apple pie on it.

"Granny we got company!" Apple Bloom cried as she helped the injured Pegasus off my back, waking the old mare from her slumber.

"Wha...who is it?" the old mare replied.

"Granny I would like you to me_" Apple Bloom started.

"Girls get away from that monster!" the old mare cried as she reached for a broom to hit me.

"Back to the forest with yah!" the old mare yelled, as she made a swing at my head with her broom. Luckily I was able to dodge her swing.

"Wait Granny, he saved us!" Apple Bloom said, grabbing the old mares arm before she could take another swing. This grabbed the attention of the old mare as she lowered the broom. Apple Bloom started to tell the tale of how she and her friends where saved from a Manticore and how I brought them home. Once Apple Bloom was finished, the old mare scolded Apple Bloom about going into the forest.

"What in tarnation is going on out here?" Another voice from inside the house got everyone's attention. The door opened to reveal Applejack with a look of anger on her face. But her face turned to one of surprise when she saw me.

"Um hi," I said as I looked at the mare.

"What are you doing here?" Applejack asked.

"Wait, you two know each other?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Sort of, we meet in the forest when she and her friends defeated Nightmare Moon. And to answer your question Applejack, I was dropping these three off. I managed to stop them from becoming food for a Manticore when they were in the forest." I replied.

At these words Applejack turned to look at the fillies her face red with anger.

"I'll deal with you later Apple Bloom. As for you two, you should know better than to go into the Everfree on your own. Yah should be thankful to this here wolf for saving your fur!" Applejack said, while the three fillies looked at the ground in shame.

"Thank ya kindly for saving my sister Mr - I'm sorry I don't know your name," Applejack said turning back to me.

"Oh where are my manners, I’m sorry name's Ash Blade, but you can call me Ash for short," I said while extending a paw for the mare to shake.

Applejack looked at my paw, then me and smiled and reached out for my paw. "Nice ta meet ya Ash. As you know, I'm Applejack. This here is Granny Smith and you already met Apple Bloom. My brother should be around here somewhere," she said while shaking my paw with insane grip and speed.

"Well, I can't wait to meet him. He sounds like a swell guy, also that's quite a handshake you got there," I said as I rubbed my paw from the pain throbbing through it.

"Oh sorry, sometimes when I meet new people I tend to get a little excited and I forget my strength," Applejack said with a sheepish grin.

"It’s alright," I replied with a smile.

"Ah, there ya are Big Mac, we got company!" Applejack said turning her line of vision just behind me.

I turned my head to see a red furred stallion with an orange mane and tail, large muscles, a plain red button up shirt with half an apple picture on it and blue jeans. He looked at me in confusion before he looked at Applejack.

"Ash this is Big Macintosh or Big Mac or Mac for short. Big Mac this is the wolf I told you about, Ash Blade but call him Ash for short," Applejack said while pointing at me.

"Nice to meet you Big Mac," I said while extending my paw like before.

Mac looked at me with a blank expression before he smiled and grabbed my hand.

"Nice to meet you to Ash, thanks for helping AJ with Nightmare Moon," he said with a firm shake of his hand.

"No problem. Oh I completely forgot, Scootaloo's leg is injured, you think you can help her?" I asked with concern.

Everyone turned their attention to the three girls and the Pegasus in question. Applejack walked over to Scootaloo and placed her hands on her leg. As soon as Applejack put pressure on her leg, Scootaloo cried out in pain.

"Looks like you sprained it sugarcube. Mac, can you carry her inside and place her onto the couch? Granny can you tend to her wound while I take care of our guest?" Applejack asked looking at everyone.

"What about us?" Apple Bloom asked.

"You two can stay by her side like the good friends you are," Applejack said. The two fillies gave Applejack a smile and ran inside to check up on their friend, leaving Applejack and I outside.

"You have a nice family Applejack," I said breaking the awkward silence.

"Thanks, you have no idea how hard it is to worry about a family member like her," she said glumly.

"Oh believe me I know what it’s like," I thought

"Well we best be on our way" I said as I turned to leave

"We?" Applejack asked tilting her head in confusion.

I gave her a smile and whistled to a tree close by. I heard a squawk and Dust flew out of the tree and landed on my back.

"Applejack, this is my companion Dust. Dust, this is Applejack," I said pointing at both of them.

"Well, nice to meet you Dust. How would you both like to join us for some brunch before you go?" Applejack asked while walking over to the door and opening it for us.

"As tempting as your offer sounds, I think I should head over to Twilight's, no doubt you and everyone else wants answers from me correct?" I said.

"You're right; Twilight won't stop talking about you. I'll show you where she lives and on the way I'll give you the tour and pick up the girls," Applejack said closing the door.

"Really, that would be great. That way I don't have to ask for directions and I can introduce myself properly to your friends," I said with a smile.

"Just let me go tell my family where I've gone off to," she said disappearing inside the house only to appear again seconds later, "alright let’s go," she said.

We reached the town and we received some weird looks of confusion and fear as we walked. Applejack pointed out some landmarks and important buildings. I noticed the pink mare from the castle where I'd fought Nightmare Moon.

"Hey Pinkie, over here!" Applejack yelled and waved the pink mare over.

The pink mare took one look at me before she jumped into the air with a gasp and held it there for three seconds before she disappeared.

"What just happened?" I asked Applejack.

"Don't worry, it's just Pinkie Pie being Pinkie Pie"

I looked at her confused and was about to ask what that meant when I was cut off as a familiar rainbow blur cut across the sky and come down to land in front of us.

"So, you finally show yourself after three weeks of living in the Everfree huh?" Rainbow Dash said as she landed.

"There you are Rainbow! I was just giving Ash Blade here a tour of Ponyville and taking him to see the girls," Applejack said.

"Ash Blade huh? Nice name. Y'know, I would have caught you the last time we met right?" Rainbow Dash said folding her arms.

"Nice to see you again Rainbow Dash, you might have caught me if you’re thinking was as fast you’re flying." I said with a smug grin, causing Applejack to stifle a laugh while Rainbow Dash grumbled something under her breath.

"Oh Rainbow, can you find Fluttershy and bring her over to Twilight's place?" Applejack asked, calming down from her laughter.

"Sure and as for you, this discussion isn't over!" Rainbow Dash said glaring at me.

"I'm counting on it!" I said as she flew off.

We continued our walk and came across a white circular building. Applejack walked up to the door and opened it and I heard a bell ring when as the door opened.

"Coming!"

I heard a familiar voice say in a sing song voice as I walked inside the building the room was beautifully decorated and filled with mannequins. Some had outstanding clothes on them. As I looked around the room, the white unicorn known as Rarity, made her appearance from a room at the back.

"Ah Applejack so nice to see you an... um Applejack darling, the wolf is standing right behind you," Rarity said looking at me nervously.

"I know Rarity he came and dropped off Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle at the farm," Applejack said.

*Gasp* "Are Sweetie and the others alright? What happened?" Rarity asked in a panic.

"Calm down, the girls are fine, but Scootaloo has a sprained leg and is getting it fixed up as we speak," Applejack said in a soothing tone.

"What happened?" Rarity asked, a little calmer.

"I managed to stop them from becoming lunch for a Manticore," I said plainly.

"Sweetie Belle, you are in so much trouble when you get home!" Rarity said with anger in her voice, "thank you for bringing my sister home safely."

"It’s no trouble. By the way my name is Ash Blade or Ash for short. This is my companion Dust," I said gesturing to the crow.

"He is simply adorable," Rarity cooed stroking the black bird’s wings.

"Rarity, we're heading over to Twilight’s right now. Care to join us?" Applejack said.

"But of course. I would like to know more about Ash as well. Just let me lock up and then we'll go," Rarity said with a smile.

*Knock* *Knock* *Knock*

Applejack knocked on the door of the library which turned out to be a tree and waited for someone to answer. I could hear shuffling coming from the other side of the door and sat patiently.

"I'm coming."

A voice said on the other side, the door opened to reveal a teenage purple and green dragon with green slitted eyes sharp teeth and a grey long sleeve shirt and white over top and blue cut up jeans.

"Hey Applejack. Hi Rarity," the young drake said, with hearts in his eyes as he said the latter’s name.

The two mares walked in before me and as I was about to walk inside when the door came in contact with the end of my muzzle.

"OW...what the hell was that for!" I yelled at the drake while holding my muzzle.

"Oh sorry I didn't see," the dragon started, but when he looked at me he slammed the door shut.

"What's going on down there?" I hear a familiar voice say from behind the door.

"Twilight, there's a wolf outside and you won’t believe this, but it can talk!" the dragon yelled.

*Gasp* "Open the door, hurry!" Twilight cried.

"Are you crazy? What part of, there's a wolf outside, don't you understand?" the dragon snapped.

"I heard you Spike, now open the door!" Twilight yelled.

A second passed before the door slowly opened and I walked in to the tree. I looked around the room and saw books along each shelf. There was also a wooden figurehead of a horse in the centre and a staircase that led upstairs to the second and third floors of the tree.

"Your here! I'm so glad to see your shoulder has healed!" Twilight said as I strode into the library.

"Nice to see you to Twilight. How are you feeling?" I asked.

"Better than when we last meet. Oh I forgot to ask for your name," Twilight said.

"It’s Ash Blade, but call me Ash for short," I said.

"Nice to finally get your name. Would you like to have a seat, something to eat or drink?" Twilight asked.

"Nah, I'm alright. But I didn't catch your name," I said looking at the dragon.

"Who me? I'm Spike, Twilight's number 1 assistant," he said puffing up his chest with pride.

"Nice to meet you Spike, this here is my companion, Dust," I said gesturing to the crow still on my back.

"Hi there Dust, I think Owlicious will like you," Spike said with a smile.

"Owlicious?" I asked tilting my head in confusion.

"Twilight's Owl. She helps out Twilight while I sleep during the night," Spike said

"Ok," I said

Suddenly, the door swung open and Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy walked into the library.

"Hey guys, and Ash," Rainbow Dash said as she hovered in the air.

"Back at ya Rainbow," I replied.

"Um hi I'm... Fluttershy " Fluttershy said hiding behind her mane.

"You don't need to be afraid of me. I'm not here to hurt you," I said with a smile trying reassuring her, "my name is Ash Blade, but please, call me Ash for short and this is my companion Dust."

*Gasp* "You have a crow? Where did you find him?" Fluttershy said with excitement.

"Well, I met him when I first arrived here. His mother was pecking him, leaving cuts on him, so I saved him and have been taking care of him ever since," I said

"Oh you poor thing," Fluttershy said while stroking Dusts back.

Dust squawked at the mare in happiness as he had his back stroked. I smiled at the bird and all the love he was receiving.

"Spike, I need you to take a letter for the princess," Twilight said

"On it!" Spike said pulling out a parchment and quill as Twilight cleared her voice to speak.

Dear Princess Celestia,

I'm writing to you to inform you that the wolf we meet three weeks ago has suddenly appeared. We are awaiting your response in how to proceed further.

Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle

As Spike finished writing he rolled up the parchment and blew on it with his fiery breath.

"Um Spike, I think Twilight said send it, not burn it," I said to the drake.

"I did," he replied.

"Huh?!" I said with a raised eyebrow.

"Allow me to explain, dragons have two flames, they can use one for transporting items to somepony, and the other to burn items," Twilight explained.

"Handy. So can items be sent both ways, even if they aren't a dragon? Is there another way of mail besides dragons?" I asked.

"Yes there is a spell that allows us to do that and yes we have the Pegasus mail carrier's in case we don't have dragons," Twilight answered.

All of a sudden, the room was lit up from a bright light, causing everyone to shield their eyes. The light dimmed to reveal Princess Celestia. The six mares and Spike bowed to the princess, leaving me standing looking at the white mare.

"Rise my little ponies and Spike," Celestia said.

On cue, the mares and Spike stood and smiled at the princess.

"It is good to see your injuries from our last encounter have healed," Celestia said looking at me with a warm smile.

"Thanks for the concern your majesty, sorry I ran off without introducing myself first," I said rubbing the back of my head with my paw.

"Well, let's start this thing over then. I am princess Celestia, co-ruler of Equestria and raiser of the sun. But please, call me Celestia," she said.

"I'm Ash Blade. No fancy titles like yours I'm afraid, but call me Ash for short," I said.

"It’s nice to finally meet you Ash Blade, and thank you for helping save my sister Princess Luna. Also for saving my student Twilight Sparkle from Nightmare Moon," Celestia said.

"It wasn't a problem your majesty," I replied.

"He also saved my sister Apple Bloom, as well as Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo from a Manticore princess," Applejack said, patting my back.

"WHAT?! IS SCOOTS ALRIGHT?" Rainbow yelled, inches away from Applejacks face.

"What about the Manticore? You didn't kill him like the Timberwolves did you?" Fluttershy asked.

"Calm down, Scootaloo got a sprained ankle from running from the Manticore, and the worst the Manticore got was a headache and a some light scratch's on his face," I replied to both mares, causing them to let out a sigh of relief.

"I'm glad those three are alright, safe and sound. Again, thank you for saving them. Now Ash Blade, the reason why I am here, is because you are curious about why you are here. Well, I'm here to answer those questions," Celestia said lowering her head down to me.

"Really?!" I said looking up at the princess with happiness.

Celestia nodded her head and looked at the others in the room. "I must show Ash Blade something and I think it would be best if you all stay here and wait for Ash's return."

Everyone looked at each other in confusion before they looked at the princess.

"But princess, why can't we come with both of you?" Twilight asked with disappoint in her voice.

"I'm sorry Twilight, but what I am going to show Ash are for his and alicorn eyes alone" Celestia said looking at Twilight.

"I understand princess," Twilight said, sighing in defeat.

"Don't worry, he won't be gone for long. If Ash Blade is willing to, he can show you a piece of info I am going to show him," Celestia said, causing Twilight to beam with happiness. "Are you ready to go?"

"Hang on," I walked over to Fluttershy and handed her Dust. "Can you look after him while I'm gone? Once I return, I'll come by to pick him up."

"I'd be happy to. I always love meeting new animals," Fluttershy said excitedly.

"He gets his own food, just make sure you let him out to stretch his wings. He is very well behaved so I don't think he will cause any trouble," I said as I turned to look at Dust. "Now Dust, Fluttershy here is going to look after you until I get back, ok?"

Dust nodded his head in understanding and I did the same before I walked back to Celestia.

"I'm ready," I said.

"Wonderful! Before anything happens, a quick warning, you may feel sick after this," she said as her horn lit up in a golden aura.

"Oomph... Oooohhhhh! You weren't kidding when you said I would feel sick! I mean, it’s not every day your body feels like it's being disassembled, then reassembled in the blink of an eye!" I said while swaying on my paws trying to maintain balance.

"Don't worry, you'll get used to it," Celestia said with a chuckle.

"Where are we?" I asked looking around the hallway.

"Ash Blade, welcome back to Canterlot Castle," Celestia replied gesturing to the empty hallway.

"Why are we here?" I asked.

"Follow me and I'll show you," Celestia said walking away.

I followed closely behind. As we walked, Celestia told me the legend of the five Knights, and their defeat at the hands of Nightmare Moon. We came to a wall with a shield design mural. It had a picture of a moon in the centre of the sun. Celestia pushed a stone brick next to the image, like a button. But nothing happened. Suddenly, the wall gave a low rumbling noise and retracted deeper into the castle. Then, it split in half to reveal a secret room. I followed Celestia inside and looked around. The room was filled with books and had five stained glass windows along the back of the wall. With a picture and a word fashioned in each window.

"Celestia, what were their names?" I asked looking at the windows.

Celestia smiled at me and sat in a chair, before she looked at the windows and sighed.

"The first knight was Link, the knight of courage," she said pointing to the centre window.

"The second knight was Altair, the knight of peace," pointing to the window on the left next to the centre window.

"The third knight was Ezio, the knight of order," pointing to the window on the far left.

"The fourth knight was Arno, the knight of hope," pointing to the window to the right of the centre window.

"The fifth knight was Corvo, the knight of honour," she finished pointing to the window on the far right.

"What were they like?" I asked still looking at the windows.

"Each one was just as great as each other and treated each other like brothers. Luna and I even looked at up to them like uncles. The time we spent together was incredible. They were always there for us, like the time Lulu and I played pranks on our mother and the guards. They always hid us when we got into trouble and a search party was sent to look for us. They were there when we played tag and hide and seek, even when we were hurt and to stop danger. They were always there for us and for everypony," Celestia said letting a tear roll down her face.

"I'm sorry, it’s just been so long since I thought about them," she said drying her face.

"Hey, it’s alright to cry. It means you miss them, right?" I said giving her a smile.

"You know, Corvo once said the same thing," Celestia said smiling.

We sat in silence and looked at the windows my mind filled with thoughts on their actions. I decided to break the silence with the most important question.

"You said you knew why I am here. Can you tell me what the reason is please?" I asked looking at Celestia

Celestia got up from her chair and walked over to one of the bookshelves and pulled a book from the shelf. It looked like it was ancient. She opened it to a certain page before she handed it to me. I looked at the page and saw my cutie mark.

"My mark! But why is a picture of my mark in a thousand year old book?" I asked.

"Before Nightmare Moon, Link asked an old friend of mine called Starswirl the Bearded, about a sixth Knight. Starswirl was always talented with magic and proficies. So he drew this picture to help them find the knight. But before they could complete their task, Nightmare Moon took their lives. As Link lay dying, he asked me to look for this mark instead. So I looked and looked for a thousand years, but with no results. I was about to give up, until Twilight drew me a picture of what your cutie mark looked like," Celestia said pointing at my cutie mark.

"So you’re saying," I started.

"Yes, you are destined to be the sixth knight of Equestria. You shall bring peace to this land once more," Celestia finished.

I was in a state of shock and surprised. I couldn't believe what I was hearing.

"I think you may have made a mistake, I'm not a hero. I lost almost every fight I was ever in. How am I any match for what those five did? Also, I have been turned into a wolf. Those five where humans, not animals. How can I do anything in this form?" I said looking at Celestia in denial.

"If that were true, then you wouldn't be here and also wouldn't be wearing that mark," She said in a matter of fact tone

"Good point," I said in a defeated tone.

"As for the wolf situation. When the knights first entered our world they were also turned into animals until they proved themselves worthy to change back into their original forms." Celestia said.

"What do you mean prove themselves?" I asked.

"I'm afraid you will have to find that out on your own. Another reason I wanted to bring you here is because, if you want to learn more about them, come by the castle, pick out a book, but only one book to take back to Ponyville. Just make sure you bring it back before you pick out another. I will also be placing you under the care of my student Twilight Sparkle, until we can get you a home of your own," Celestia said.

"That's very kind of you princess thank you," I said with a bow.

I walked over to the book shelves and looked at the books stacked neatly in each shelf. I looked at the age old books covered in dust until, a purple book with gold binding caught my eye. I pulled the book out and blew the dust off the cover and looked at the title.

The Five Knights Guide of Magic Spells and Enchantments

"The knights could use magic?! I've got to read this," I said excited.

"The contents in this book is only for humans to use not for ponies," Celestia said

"So there is some magic the knights used that you ponies couldn't written in this book?" I asked

"Yes, the results of failed attempts to use some of the magic in this book are in this room," Celestia said

"This keeps on getting more and more interesting. I'll bring it back in perfect condition," I said with excitement in my voice.

"Very well then. Come, I think it's best I get you back to Ponyville and also teach you how to open and close this room's door from outside and inside," Celestia said turning back to the entrance. I smiled and followed.

"Uh, I don’t think I'm ever going to get used to that," I said as we arrived back at Twilight's home.

"Your back," Twilight said looking up from a book she was reading.

"Twilight Sparkle, I'm glad you’re here, I must ask something of you," Celestia said noticing her student.

"Anything princess," Twilight said bowing to her mentor.

"I'm requesting that Ash Blade live under your roof until a home can be created for him," Celestia said formally at her student.

"Me? I...but... it would be an honour princess,” Twilight said stuttering in excitement.

"I'm glad, and remember Ash, stop by Canterlot when you have time," Celestia said as she disappeared in a flash of light.

I looked at Twilight and she looked back at me, I tried to think of a conversation starter but couldn't think of anything.

"So, I guess we're roommates now," Twilight said nervously.

"Yeah, I guess we are," I said looking down at the ground.

"How about I show you around the house?" Twilight suggested.

"Sounds like a plan," I said.

"Well this is the library," she said gesturing to the room we were standing in. "That door leads to the basement," Twilight said pointing to a wooden door at the back of the room. "That's the kitchen," she said gesturing to a doorway next to the basement door. "Follow me," she said, as she started walking upstairs. I followed closely behind until we came to the 1st floor "This is my room."

"Nice place," I said with a low whistle.

"Thanks," she said with a giggle, "follow me I'll show you the rest of the house."

We left the room and walked up more stairs to the 2nd floor. We entered a small hallway with two doors on either side.

"This is spike's room," she said gesturing to the door on the left, "and here is where you will be staying," she said as she approached the door on the right and opened it. The room was simple and had light blue walls, a large window at the back of the room and a bed, a writing desk an empty bookshelf and its own bathroom.

"What do you think?" she asked with a nervous smile.

"Thankyou Twilight, it will do just fine. Oh I forgot, I need to go get Dust," I said as I placed the book I brought with me from my back onto the desk.

"What's that?" Twilight asked pointing at the book.

"That well... it’s a...sigh. It’s a book, that tells and shows me how to use some magic that the five knights used," I said.

"Really! I have got to read that," she squealed in excitement and she went to grab the book.

"Oh no you don't. Listen, I'm the only one here that is going to read this book," I said as I stepped in-between her and the book.

"But... but... but, all the untold knowledge in that book," Twilight stuttered.

"Calm down Twilight, it's just that I would like to read it first. Besides, you can't perform any of the spells in this book anyway because Celestia said these spells are only for humans, not ponies," I said.

"Fine I'll wait," she said pouting.

"Thank you for understanding Twilight. Don't worry, you'll get a chance to read it," I said to reassure her. Twilight smiled at me as we walked out the door.

"Well I'd better go get Dust."

"Would you like me to come with you? I can show you the way, and we can invite Dust and Fluttershy and head over to sugar cube corner for some food afterwards," Twilight asked

"Sure, all that teleporting made me hungry," I said as I lifted a paw to my stomach.

We arrived at Fluttershy's place and I found it surprising that the meek Pegasus lived so close to the Everfree forest, considering all the dangers I'd encountered in the forest. We came close to her cottage and I saw animals all over the place and Fluttershy talking to Dust. As we came closer, the animals looked at me and ran away in fear.

"Hello Fluttershy," Twilight greeted the Pegasus.

"Eeep," Fluttershy squeaked as she greeted her. "Oh hi Twilight, hi Ash, I'm sorry I didn't see you both," Fluttershy said hiding behind her mane and blushing.

"It’s fine, we came to pick up. Dust I trust everything went well," I said as Dust flew onto my back.

"It was splendid, all my animal friends really like Dust and warmed up to him right away," Fluttershy said smiling.

"I'm glad to see that he is welcome here. I just wish I got the same treatment," I said gesturing to the frightened animals.

"Oh don't worry, I'll take care of that," Fluttershy said, walking over to the animals.

"It’s alright, you can come out now. Ash here isn't going to hurt any of you, he just came to pick up Dust," Fluttershy said in a soothing voice causing the animals to appear one by one.

"You can communicate with them?" I asked in wonder.

"Yes, it’s my special talent," Fluttershy said as the last of the animals revealed themselves.

"That is quite impressed... ouch!!" I was interrupted as a piece of a chewed carrot hit me in the back of my head.

I looked to see a white rabbit hop in-between me and Fluttershy. The rabbit shot a glare at me telling me that I wasn't welcome here before he turned to Fluttershy and started squeaking something to her.

*Gasp*"Angel Bunny that is no way to talk about Ash," Fluttershy scowled at the rabbit.

Angel glared at me before he hopped away.

"I'm sorry about him, he isn't normally like that," Fluttershy apologized.

"It’s alright, you can't be responsible for everybody's opinions on others," I said.

"Don't you mean everypony?" Twilight asked.

"No, I meant everybody," I replied.

"Well, here we say everypony," Twilight said.

"Ok, I'll try to remember that," I said.

"Anyway Fluttershy, Ash and I are heading over to sugar cube corner, care to join us?" Twilight asked turning her head to look at Fluttershy.

"I'd love to, that is if you don't mind?" Fluttershy queried.

We arrived at sugar cube corner and I was amazed at the building's design. It looked like a giant gingerbread house. We walked up to the door and opened it only to reveal a dark room.

"Why is everything so dark in here?" I asked.

"SURPRISE!"

Suddenly the lights turned on to reveal ponies, streamers, tables and food all sitting in the dark, almost making me jump out of my fur. All of a sudden a pink furred object filled my vision.

"WereyousurprisedwellwereyawhereyaI'mPinkiePieandIknowabsoulutlyeveryponyintownwemeteachotheratthecastlewhereyoufoughtNightmareMoonandsavedTwilightandwhenIsawyouintownwithApplejackIthoughtyoudon'tknowanyponyhereandifyoudon'tknowanyponyyoudon'thaveanyfreindsandthatmademesadsoIrushedofftogetyourpartyreadyandIfoundoutyousavedthecutiemarkcrusadersfromamanticoreso..." The pink mare’s mouth was muffled by an orange hand that belonged to Applejack.

"Pinkie, how is the poor guy going understand ya if you’re talking as fast as Rainbow Dash can fly," Applejack said removing her hand from the Pink hyperactive mare.

"So your names Pinkie Pie, right?" I asked.

"Yep, that's right and who are you?" Pinkie asked.

"I'm Ash Blade, but you all can call me Ash for short. This is my companion, Dust," I said, gesturing to the crow.

"So did you enjoy the surprise? Well did ya did ya?" Pinkie said.

"Wait this party is for me?" I asked.

"Well yeah, is there something wrong with it?" Pinkie said.

"Well it’s just... This is my first party I've ever had in my life," I said meekly.

*Gaaasssp*

The entire party went deathly silent as soon as the words left my lips. Everypony looked at me in pure shock. Pinkie looked to be in the worst condition, she looked like she'd seen a demon or something.

"Ash how can this be your first party?" Twilight asked in disbelief.

"Well, I didn't have any one to celebrate with," I said sadly.

"Didn't you have friends before you arrived here?" Rarity asked.

I shook my head in reply.

"What about family?" Applejack asked, scared of the answer.

I tensed up and winced at the word family. I simply closed my eyes, looked down and shook my head again.

"Does this mean you’re an orphan?" Rainbow Dash asked surprised.

"Worse, I'm a street urchin," I said.

"What does that mean?" Spike asked putting a claw in my back and rubbed it.

"Instead of being placed in an orphanage, a street urchin is where a child is abandoned on the street and left to fend for themselves," I said letting a tear fall from my eye.

All of a sudden I was wrapped in a hug by all six mares and Spike, each one letting out a few tears.

"How can somepony be so cruel?" Fluttershy asked tears drenching my fur.

I didn't answer instead, I just looked at Pinkie Pie. To my surprise instead of her usual puffy mane it was straight and flat.

"Hey Pinkie you organised this party for me correct?" I asked getting the pink mares attention.

"Yeah," she said as she wiped away a few tears.

"Well, I don't want my first party to be such a downer. Especially since you put so much hard work into preparing it for me," I said getting everypony to look at me confused.

"What do you mean?" Pinkie asked.

"I mean, if this is going to be my first party, then I want everypony having fun. Not sad and mopey. What kind of party is that anyway?" I asked with a smile on my face.

"It's not!" Pinkie said, her expression changing from sadness to happiness and her mane and tail becoming puffy and curly in a flash. "What are we waiting for? LET'S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!"

Immediately the atmosphere in the room changed from sad and depressed to happy and joyful. I was impressed on how quickly they could forget their sadness and go back to being happy. Pinkie showed me the party games like, pin the tail on the pony and the piñata. Applejack showed me the food she and her family prepared, along with the treats the Cakes (Pinkie's employers and landlord), prepared for the party. I was introduced to some ponies from around town, like a mare called Rose and her sisters Lily and Daisy, the florists, the spa twins Aloe and Lotus, a cross-eyed mare called Derpy Hooves and her Daughter Dinky Doo and a strange stallion that goes by the name Doctor Whooves. I even saw the cutie mark crusaders having a ball. I was glad to hear Scootaloo will make a full recovery but for now needed crutches to stay off her injured hoof.

The party started to die down as the sun began to set. Soon everypony went home leaving Dust, Spike and the mane six along with myself to walk back towards the Library.

"That had to be the most fun I've ever had in my entire life," I said laughing as we walked in the door.

"I'm glad you enjoyed it," Pinkie pie said pulling me into a bone crushing hug.

"Ah Pinkie....can't....breath," I said desperate for air.

Luckily Applejack saw the situation and pried me away from the pink party mare. As soon as I was released I sucked in enough air to fill a tyre. I looked at Applejack and nodded in thanks, then turned to Pinkie who offered me a sheepish grin.

"Sorry about that Ash," Pinkie said.

"It's alright Pinkie, just take it easy with the hug's ok?" I said still gasping for air.

"You alright partner?" Applejack asked patting my back.

"Yeah just need a minute. Oh um, everypony, thanks for the hug at the party, you have no idea how bad I needed it," I said offering a small smile.

"Don't worry about it, you would have had to been super tough to survive on your own as a child," Dash said giving me the thumbs up.

"Believe me when I say RD you have no idea," I said.

"So Ash darling, where are you going to be staying while your here?" Rarity asked.

"The princess has set me up here in the library with both Twilight and Spike," I said gesturing to the two.

"You’re staying with us that's_"*Burb* Spike was interrupted as he burped out green flames. The flames swirled around and turned into a scroll.

"Good one," I said as Spike picked up the scroll.

"A message from the princess, what does it say Spike?" Twilight asked.

"Well it's for Ash," Spike said handing me the scroll.

Everypony looked at me confused. I took the scroll gently in my jaws and placed it on the ground and unrolled it and out fell a golden ticket. Everypony gasped with surprise when they saw the gold bit of paper. I looked at it confused before I turned my attention to the scroll.

Dear Ash Blade

I hope you are doing well so far and are making friends with many of my little ponies. I am writing to you because I forgot to invite you to the Grand Galloping Gala in a few days. If you don't feel like attending I understand your decision. But if you do come, but don't feel like attending the party, you can go into the room I showed you earlier today and do some more research on the knights if you wish. I hope to see you there.

Princess Celestia.

"Uh guys, can I ask you something?" I said.

Everypony leaned in closer to listen to the question.

"What's the Grand Galloping Gala?" I said flatly.

Author's Notes:

I'd like to say Thanks, for everything to those who have posted comments on my story. and I hope everyone enjoyed this chapter and are ready for the next one so don't be shy when you have something to say and I will try to answer your questions when I can.

Till next time stay 20% cooler