Have you ever felt that your whole life has been a lie well I just found out that's what my entire life has been. I sat alone in the infirmary wing of Canterlot Castle it's been two weeks since my encounter with Heartless and another three days since I woke up from the attack and in that time I have barely eaten and slept even less. My mind wouldn't put to rest all those memories I had while I slept I was constantly visited by everyone but I continued to tell them I wasn't accepting visitors at the moment because I needed to be alone.

So many questions swarmed my head like an angry hornets nest till I finally couldn't take it I got out of my bed and put on some casual clothing despite my still healing injuries I walked out of the infirmary and down the hall. It was a beautiful night and I could hear the sound of music and laughter coming from somewhere in the castle. I paid it no mind and continued my walk and looked out the window to see Celestia's tower but I also saw a rope or wire attached to a grappling hook being tossed up to the balcony.

Seeing this I decided find out who was intruding on Celestia's room like this I ran all the way to the tower cringing every time my injury's told me to slow down I ran up the stairs and reached Celestia's room thanking my luck that there weren't any guards here at the time. I walked into Celestia's room and looked around and saw it was very day themed. The celling was sky blue with white clouds to make it look like the sky and above a massive circular bed was a golden sun shaped chandelier and around the room were many golds, blues, whites, and even some reds. There was also a fire place up against a wall and a makeup dresser and desk that little to no paperwork.

I pulled my thoughts away from the room and hid myself in the shadows of a ceiling corner of the room and waited I didn't have to wait long before the pony's shadow appeared over the balcony and opened the doors before he walked in. I immediately saw he was a Templar and he had a bag with him but I jumped down on my prey pining him to the floor and disarmed him and kept his gaze away from me.

"Who are you unhand me," the Templar demanded.

"Fat chance and what is it with you Templars coming in through the balcony window?" I asked.

"It's either you let me go or our order will descend upon you and end you," the Templar said.

I turned the Templar around to face me but not before I summoned my robes hidden blades and put on my ring and shadow.

"I've been hunting your order the moment they showed up on my doorstep pal but enough stalling why are you here?" I asked.

"Go fuck yourself," the Templar said.

I extended a hidden blade before I drove it into his leg and twisted it causing him to scream.

"So want to tell me now or should I try elsewhere?" I asked as I moved my blade over his crotch.

"No, no I'll talk I'll talk," the Templar said fearfully.

"Good now spill," I demanded as retracted my blade and grabbed his shirt and held him close to my face.

"We were ordered by Gold Mine to sneak into the royal's rooms and assassinate them and pin the murder on you," the Templar said.

"We?" I asked.

"One pony for each room," the Templar said.

"Anything else I should know?" I asked as I extended my blade again.

"The Masquerade," the Templar said.

"Keep talking," I said.

"Gold Mine is at the Masquerade ball tonight now please don't kill me," the Templar said.

"Thank you," I said.

"So you won't kill me?" the Templar asked.

"No you told me everything I needed to know," I said causing the Templar to sigh in relief. "However I never said I was going to let you leave."

I used my magic to grab the climbing rope the Templar used to get up here and used it to tie up his hands then his feet and used the other end to tie it to the railing before I sent him over the edge. I then left the room leaving the upside down dangling Templar before I summoned some casual clothing and dropped my disguise and walked through the castle. I managed to take care of the assassin's in most of the royal family's rooms except Faust's but now I was walking down the hall after my latest episode with a Templar dressed as an assassin in Twilight's room before I stopped.

"I can't go to a party with blood on me," I said before I removed my shadow then snapped my fingers and was dressed in a suit with a bowtie but I kept my ring on "Much better now if Faust's room is on the other side of the party I'll have to take out Gold Mine that way I don't have to come back for him even though it may blow my cover," I said before I walked over to the entrance of the ballroom and saw both Swift Spear and Holy Light at the entrance.

"You halt what are you doing here?" Swift asked as they raised their spears at me.

"Whoa guys it's me," I said only for them to tilt their heads in confusion I then realized the mistake I made and removed my ring dropping the disguise.

"Sir why are you here and in disguise?" Holy Light asked.

"Guys listen there were a bunch of assassins in the princess’s rooms," I said before I raised a hand to hold in their outbursts. "Rest assured I've taken care of the problem but they were posing as me or shadow vigilante me to blame me for the deaths also there's one left in Faust's room so I need to get in there and take care of it but there's also another problem," I said.

"What is it sir?" Swift asked.

"The one who organized this is at the party," I said.

"Why don't you wait till later?" Swift asked.

"First off I don't know where he lives secondly this guy managed to get this done rather well I had no idea if he will plan another attack on the princesses and if he does I may not know about it till it's too late so I need to make sure this doesn't happen again," I said.

"Alright sir it's you're call what can we do," Swift said.

"Sorry?" I asked.

"C'mon sir you said someone is going to die in there what would you have us do we are your guards after all," Holy Light said.

"Besides we owe you," Swift said.

"Thanks guys now listen I'm going to need a straight shot at Faust's room cause that will also be my escape route so in the confusion of everypony trying to get out of the room I'm going to slip out through the doors your guarding. Once I’m through you close the doors behind me and if anyone asks you closed them to try and prevent my escape or if someone asks if I came through you say no got it?" I asked.

"Understood," the pair said in sync.

"Great now all I need is a mask then I'm set," I said.

"There's a table filled with masks inside sir you can grab one there," Swift said.

"Thanks Swift you guys make sure your ready when I'm done and be ready," I said before I put on my ring.

"Uh sir you never said why your disguised," Holy Light said.

"Holy Light if I went into the party as myself it would be pretty obvious to spot me as a human so I came as this and put on a mask and now no one will know the difference," I said as the guards made an o with their mouths.

I walked inside and found the table Swift mentioned and picked out a wolf mask I found neat.

I then put on the mask and walked into the crowd and began to look for Gold Mine I've seen the guy a few times in the castle but even though we never spoke but I could tell he didn't like me. As I looked around I saw Rarity sitting on a table looking a little depressed I could tell it was her because of her indigo purple mane not to mention she was wearing a scarlet red glittering dress with a split that went up to her thigh. Her face was hidden behind a gold mask with indigo purple gems on it so I walked over to see the problem but remembered to stay in character.

"Pardon mademoiselle but I couldn't help but notice how depressed you looked is there something I can help with?" I asked in a sincere tone.

"Oh hello there sir I'm sorry it's just my coltfriend has become really popular among the mares and other fans since he became a Wonderbolt," Rarity said as she looked off in a direction.

I followed her gaze and saw she was looking at Thunderlane who was signing autographs and such.

"I see well if you like maybe I can help him get his attention more focused on you and also he may consider doing an activity with you," I said.

"What do you mean?" Rarity asked.

"Simple may I have this dance?" I asked as I held a hand out to Rarity.

Rarity looked at my hand before she hesitantly grasped it and I helped her up before I led her to the part of the floor were people were dancing it was a slow waltz which I've done many times during one of the forgotten parts of my life. Rarity seemed to be alright now that we were dancing but when the music changed to something foreign I haven't danced too in a long time I decided kick it up a notch.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCq3CMbqYNo

"Ever danced to Spaneighish music before?" I asked.

"Oh yes but sadly no one to dance with," Rarity said.

"Well miss it appears you just found yourself a partner," I said before we started

As the words kicked in both Rarity and I began to dance and in seconds the floor was cleared for us and everyone watched the two of us and I had to say Rarity was flawless, but I may be a little rough around the edges and also my injuries made it a little difficult when it came to dancing like that. But as we danced I managed to do several dips and daring moves with Rarity and at one point I even added a rose to the mix. Before the song finished and I had Rarity up against me before she spun around and let herself fall all the while I held one of her hands allowing me to stop the fall inches before she hit the floor and while she held the rose in her mouth. The audience then cheered and clapped at the performance before I helped Rarity up.

"Is he looking?" Rarity asked.

Not needing to know she was talking about I looked at Thunderlane and saw him giving me the stink eye behind his mask.

"Yes and I fear I overdid it," I said.

"Oh nonsense come I must introduce you to everyone," Rarity said before she took my hand and dragged me over to Thunderlane. "Thunderlane darling did you see?"

"Yes dear I did and just why were you dancing with him?" Thunderlane asked.

"I can sense your hostility towards me amigo but please know I was never meant to cause any harm between you two I would never try to come between such a lovely couple," I said.

"Oh and why should I believe you?" Thunderlane asked.

"Thunderlane please," Rarity said trying to stop an argument to break out.

"No, no miss Rarity was it please allow me and your charming coltfriend to have a little talk stallion to stallion," I said.

"You want to talk alright then," Thunderlane said.

"Then lead the way," I said as I outstretched a hand to allow Thunderlane to go first before I followed.

Thunderlane and I walked through the crowd before we came to a small corner that was abandoned of ponies when Thunderlane turned around to have a go at me.

"What the Tartarus is your problem dude going for the mare I love?" Thunderlane asked in quiet rage.

"Thunderlane," I said.

"There plenty of mares out there that would go for a guy like you but no you want Rarity," Thunderlane said.

"Thunderlane," I repeated.

"What did you offer to her bits, money, fame cause none of that is worth more than my lo-," Thunderlane started before I clamped his mouth shut with my left hand.

"Thunderlane would you calm down already it's me Ash," I said as I showed him my ring before I released his mouth.

"Ash wh-what are you doing here?" Thunderlane asked.

"I'm hunting down Templars some got into the princesses rooms and were going to kill them if I hadn't seen one and the worst part was is that we were going to be blamed for it," I said.

"Damn and let me guess the mastermind to it is here?" Thunderlane asked.

"Yeah Gold Mine I haven't seen him yet but I know he's here," I said.

"Well it doesn't explain why you were hanging out with Rarity like that," Thunderlane said.

"I was actually saving your relationship Thunder Rarity was in bad way when I saw her at a table waiting for you to finish up with your fans and the mares trying to get a kiss from you which you agreed to give you idiot," I said as I slapped him upside the head.

"Gee now I feel guilty," Thunderlane said as he rubbed the spot where I hit him.

"You should now I recommend you take Rarity to a few dancing lessons learn a few moves and who knows you may like it," I said.

"Yeah I guess I owe her that much but anyway thanks Ash," Thunderlane said.

"Hey don't sweat it bud I'm just glad I could help," I said.

"So I guess I should get ready to go since your here to kill someone right?" Thunderlane asked.

"Maybe but I plan to do it silently and get out I have my escape route covered so the body may not be discovered till late when everyone leaves if my luck holds out," I said.

"Well we'd better get back and if we're lucky Rarity hasn't sent any guards out after us," Thunderlane said before he led me back into the crowd and once we reunited with Rarity I saw the rest of girls, stallions, Spike, Rage, the princesses plus Cadence and Shining were there as well.

"Oh there you two are I was beginning to get worried," Rarity said.

"Your concern is appreciated miss Rarity," I said.

"Yeah Rares but don't worry everything has been patched up and he forgave me for my little overreaction he's a pretty swell guy," Thunderlane said.

"Well I'm glad the misunderstanding between you Thunderlane and our guest has been sorted," Celestia said.

"Indeed but forgive me but who are you?" Dream Catcher asked.

"I do believe it is the point of a masquerade ball to keep our names hidden your majesty," I said.

"Oh and if that's the case how'd you know I was a princess?" Dream Catcher asked.

"Both your manes, tails, horns and wings gave it away your majesties," I said causing all the princesses and Twilight to blush.

"He does make a point there sister and it is a fact we have forgotten tonight," Luna said.

As I looked past Luna I saw my target sitting at a table and was alone.

"Well I never said I can give you a hint on who I am and let's make it interesting does anyone have any paper and a quill," I asked.

Twilight then summoned a piece of paper and a quill and handed them to me I then placed the paper on the table and began to draw lines in what appeared to be random spots on both sides of the paper and once I finished I handed them both back to Twilight.

"What is this it's just some lines," Rainbow said.

"This is your puzzle but by folding questions over you'll find answers," I said.

"Huh?" Everyone asked.

"Now I must be gone I have something that needs to be tended to but I'm sure we’ll meet again soon," I said.

"Oh and what makes you say that?" Cadence asked.

"For that answer along with more you must unfuzzle the puzzle to find out what's in store," I rhymed before I disappeared into the crowd.

I walked over to the bar and ordered two drinks before I looked at Gold Mine and saw he was still alone and eating some food before I looked at the group and saw them try and figure out my riddle. I received the drinks and payed the mare working there before I walked over to Gold Mine who was stuffing himself full of food.

"This is delicious," Gold Mine said to himself.

"Then I'm sure you'll love the champagne," I said as I held a glass out to him.

"Well thank you please sit," Gold Mine said as he gestured to the table opposite him and as he sat down he took a sip from his glass. "Ah that's the stuff it appears I'm in the presence of someone who knows his beverages."

"Thank you," I said.

"I must say there are not many who appreciate a good drink in this town I'm glad to meet someone who actually does," Gold Mine said.

"Well everyone has their reasons to do so or not," I said.

"Now I can probably guess what your talent is," Gold Mine said.

"If you’re thinking it has something to do with drinks then I'm afraid you’re wrong it's just a talent that I picked up," I said.

"Oh well it's certainly something I'm glad you have picked up but I must ask did you seek an audience with me or was this out of kindness?" Gold Mine asked.

"Well now that you asked yes I wanted to talk to you about something," I said.

"Then by all means ask away," Gold Mine said as he continued to eat.

"I'm curious as to know why you’re working with the Templars," I said causing Gold Mine to freeze and look at me calmly.

"How'd you know?" Gold Mine asked.

"The necklace around your neck made it easy for me and one of your little posers in the princesses rooms told me where you were tonight but now that I've answered your question would you kindly answer mine?" I asked.

"Why should I answer that?" Gold Mine asked.

"The other Templars whose blood coats my blade aren't exactly talkative when I ask so I'll ask again why side with the Templars?" I asked.

"The princesses have been in control for thousands of years now and all that time they've been sitting on that throne and it has been declared that we could operate things better than them," Gold Mine said.

"The only thing I've seen coming from you Templars is death forced labour and more death there is nothing good about you this much is clear and also you had a damn good life to live Gold Mine one that others would want. Yet it's never enough you always want more if there was anyone that's actually fit enough to govern this land then it would be the princesses that are currently on the throne. And I can promise you one thing they will stay that way," I said.

"Well when you put it that way I suppose your right I should have been happy with what I had but now thanks to my greed and stupidity it cost me everything. I suppose I should have quit while I was ahead but may I ask what is the name behind the shadow?" Gold Mine asked.

"My name...is Ash Blade sixth knight of Equestria, knight of freedom and mentor of the assassin's brotherhood," I said.

"Well I suppose you’re not going to let me live now that you told me so let's get it over with," Gold Mine said.

"No need I killed you as soon as you drank from your glass," I said.

"Will there be pain like Golden Hoard?" Gold Mine asked.

"No it will be like falling asleep," I said.

"Thank you," Gold Mine said before he downed the rest of his drink. "Ah you know if you offered this to me before I would have considered you a friend sooner."

"Well I figured your last drink would need to be a good one," I said.

"Well since you did that for me I should ask did you get all the assassins I had planned for the princesses?" Gold Mine asked.

"There's still the one if Faust's room but don't worry I'll get to him," I said.

"You'd better hurry because Faust has already left," Gold Mine said before I looked at the party for Faust but couldn't see her. "Now let’s see if you can beat the clock good luck."

I looked back at Gold Mine and saw he was dead and blood was leaking from his mouth.

"Sleep in peace...bastard," I said before I stood up and as quickly and calmly as I could walked over to where Swift Spear and Holy Light when suddenly a familiar cyan Pegasus blocked my path. She looked at me then she held up an origami of the creeds symbol.

"Gotta say nice puzzle you gave us a real head scratcher but enough games pal you need to come with me," Rainbow said.

"I'm afraid I can't do that you see I'm trying not to disturb the party and I still have work to do right now so if you'll excuse me," I said as I began to walk around her only to be stopped by Applejack.

"Listen sugarcube we want to help you we know you and the others are the good guys but the princesses just have some questions for you," Applejack said.

"Well as grand it would be to have another talk with the princesses I actually need to leave to make sure we still remain the good guys," I said.

"What do you mean by that?"

I turned around and saw the rest of the group plus the princesses were there staring at me and behind them I saw a mare walking over to Gold Mine's body.

"I'll show you if you think you can keep up," I said.

"Buddy I'm the fastest flyer in Equestria I'm pretty sure I can keep up with you and where do you think you’re going to go we have you surrounded," Rainbow said.

Suddenly I heard a mare scream stopping everything and causing all eyes to turn to her as she screamed murderer I then took this opportunity to sneak past Rainbow and Applejack and summon my robes, weapons and my shadow. I then took off my mask and teleported it back to the den before I turned around to look at the others who were looking at me.

"Later," I said causing the others to spin around and look at me before I disappeared into the panicking crowd. I weaved and bobbed my way out of the scrambling crowd and made it to the door where Swift and Holy Light were and ran down it. But I wasn't alone the entire group was hot on my heels trying to catch me. "They're persistent I'll give em that."

I ran down the halls as fast as I possibly could ignoring the pain of my injury's and constantly avoiding Rainbow's and Gilda's dives and the bolts of magic before I saw Faust's room. All the princesses teleported in front of me and started making a shield to prevent me from getting through. But I poured on my speed and jumped through a rapidly closing gap before I slid under the princesses and burst through the doors and saw the assassin preparing to kill Faust while she slept. I ran at the assassin and time slowed down as I ran I leapt over the backrest and tackled the Templar to the ground. I skidded across the floor in a kneeling position coming to a halt right before everyone came in and I stood up. The commotion woke up Faust and the Templar I knocked down was getting up and I saw he was a unicorn.

"What the heck is going on here?" Faust asked.

The Templar then went to draw another alicorn stone dagger but I rushed forward and punched him in the face before I kicked him in the side of his knee but the Templar punched me in the gut then the shoulder and then the face causing me to stumble back. I rubbed my chin and nodded at the Templar before I got into a stance and the Templar did the same we charged at each other and landed several punches on one another before he drew a blade and tried to stab me with it. But I dodged to the left only for him to blast me with his magic and send me flying into one of the many book cases that went along the two side walls of the room.

I then landed on my back and I saw the Templar begin to pull the shelf down on me with his magic first the books and scrolls fell on me and then the shelf but I put my hands and feet in front of me and caught the shelf before I threw it at the Templar sending him into the far wall of the room. I then leapt onto my feet and rushed at the Templar and punched my hand through the bookcase and yanked the Templar though it. I then threw him into the air before I used my speed too appear above him and slammed him into the ground and as I stood above him ready to take his life. But I didn't expect his kick from behind causing me to roll along the ground and got into a crouching position. I looked at the Templar and saw him get up and grab one of the alicorn stone daggers but I looked around and found a white rose before I grabbed it and stood up confusing the group of bystanders. I looked back at the Templar and saw him stare at me and placed my hand holding the rose by my side and held it backwards. The Templar and I continued to stare at each other before the Templar let out a battle cry and charged at me but I just tossed the rose at the Templar stem first. The delicate flower went through the Templar's heart like a blade and came out the other side before it floated to the ground gently. The petals of the snow white flower turned red with blood causing the group of bystander’s jaws to drop.

"Rosy dagger," I whispered to myself before the motionless Templar collapsed into a kneeling position before he fell over dead.

I lowered my arm that threw the rose before I walked over to the balcony doors and opened it before I stepped outside.

"Hey hold it,"

"Shining stop,"

I turned around and saw Shining with a hand on his sword but Cadence stopping him.

"Those foals from the steel mill are they alright," I asked causing everyone to look at me.

"Uh yes they're being cared for in the Crystal Empire by a proper caretaker," Cadence said before I gave a nod.

"I knew I was right in entrusting them to you two I'm glad to hear their safe," I said.

"It was all thanks to you and in case you’re wondering Ever Ring has been taken care of as well," Faust said.

"I see and apologies for disturbing the party I was trying to remain discreet and also Celestia there's something on your balcony might want to take a look at that," I said before I walked further out onto the balcony and turned to look at the others. "I was right you know."

"What do you mean," Dream Catcher asked.

"I knew we'd see each other again soon and maybe the next time we meet you'll see the face behind the shadow," I said before I used my rope launcher and disappeared from their view and once I was on the roof I teleported myself into the medical ward and dressed myself in the hospital clothes and slept peacefully for the first time in three days.

Next Morning

I had just finished having a shower and got dressed before I walked out of the infirmary and down the corridor where I ran into Chrysalis.

"Ash what are you doing up?" Chrysalis asked but I just folded my arms over my chest and raised an eyebrow. "What?"

""It's been three days since you saw me and you say what am I doing up instead of hello," I said.

"Hello Ash what are you doing up" Chrysalis asked.

"Hello Chrysalis and the reason I am up is because I needed the exercise but why are you traveling down this way I assumed you'd all be at breakfast" I said.

"Well I was actually on my way to see you to invite you to breakfast," Chrysalis said.

"After eating what those doctors call food for three days count me in," I said.

"Great," Chrysalis chuckled.

Both Chrysalis and I walked down the corridors in silence ever since I freed her she and I have become good friends and the same goes for Dream Catcher we've managed to form a bond as strong as the girls. But even though life on our side was good others still gave the two and Luna a hard time and I was reminded by that fact as we passed a pair of nobles as we neared the dining room door. I heard one of them mutter bug queen under their breath while the other said pathetic insect making me want to toss em through a window but when we entered the dining room and saw everyone was sitting at the table I saw Chrysalis was crying.

"Chrysalis don't let what those bastards said get to you alright you've been working hard to help Equestria and you know it," I said causing everyone to look at us.

"I know but every time I try to help I'm reminded of my past it always seems to haunt me," Chrysalis said before I hit the top of her head with a fist causing everyone's attention to shift to us. "Ow jeez what was that for?"

"It doesn't matter it's in the past," I said.

"Yeah but it still hurts," Chrysalis said as she rubbed the top of her skull.

"Oh yes the past can hurt you can ask anyone in this room and we all feel plenty of pain from the past but during the last three days I learned something you can either run from it or learn from it," I said as I made another swipe at Chrysalis only for her to dodge it. "Ha you see ha, ha now tell me exactly what are you going to do now?"

"First I'm going to do this," Chrysalis said before she hit me on the top of my skull causing me to wince and rub my own skull in pain. "Then this," Chrysalis said before she gave me a hug which I returned. "Ash thank you."

"I'm your friend Chrysalis and never forget that no one is perfect especially those nobles and if they says things behind your back then tell them to come up and say it to your face and see how brave they are if they have the balls to," I said causing Chrysalis to chuckle.

"I'll be sure to remember that," Chrysalis said before we sat at the table and I was served bacon, eggs and pancakes.

"Well it's good to see you up and about Ash how are you feeling?" Faust asked.

"Shoulder stings but I should be fine in a day or so but what's going down with everyone here?" I asked.

"We had a vigilante visit last night during the masquerade ball," Rarity said.

"Oh that explains the screaming I thought I heard but what happened?” I asked.

"Some Templars assassin's disguised as the shadow vigilante tried to murder us when we when we went to bed but the vigilante took care of it and killed the one in charge who was at the party a Templar called Gold Mine. Also left a Templar hanging from my balcony who is being questioned as we speak," Celestia said.

"Damn sounded like fun sorry I missed it," I said.

"Don't worry dude you didn't miss much," Rage said with a knowing smirk.

"I see well is there anything else planned for the future," I asked.

"Yeah Hearts Warming is coming up next week," Pinkie said.

"Seriously whoa time flies," I said.

"It's hard to believe but almost two years ago you fell into our land and have done so much," Celestia said.

"Yeah I know it feels kinda weird," I said.

"But we're all thankful for it," Luna said as she cuddled up on my right shoulder.

"So Ash what did you see while you were out?" Caramel asked earning him glares from everyone.

"Just parts of my life that have been hidden from me," I said in a depressed tone.

"Well what about your parents any luck?" Mac asked.

"No that memory of me being placed in the tree was the earliest memory I had except I could hear screaming those screams I'll never get them out of my head I felt great pain and sorrow in those screams I just...can't stop it," I said as I gripped my head and felt tears threaten to fall.

"Ash calm yourself you've been through a lot right now just breath," Faust said.

I felt a hand on my shoulder and I looked to see Cadence mimicking her breathing exercise which I did and calmed down.

"Better?" Cadence asked.

"Better," I said.

"That's going to cost you," Cadence said as she leaned her head closer and twitched her ear.

"Are you kidding me you have Shining," I said.

"Yeah!" Luna and Shining shouted as Luna grabbed me in a death lock around my neck.

"Uh Luna," Faust said as she pointed at me.

"Oh Ash I'm sorry I don't know what happened," Luna said.

"Mood swings Luna becomes extremely powerful when you feel your mate is in certain situations," Dream Catcher said.

"Yeah I should've expected that but what I want to know why do you want me to scratch behind you ears when Shining can do it?" I asked.

"He's not as good as you though," Cadence whined before Luna wrapped her arms around me being careful not to crush me.

"Ugh fine but I'm going to keep an eye on you in future this this activity is meant for Luna and myself," I said.

"What do you get out of it?" Cadence asked with a mischiefs smile.

"Like I'll spill that info to you," I said as I stuck my tongue out at her.

"Fine just scratch already," Cadence said as she leaned forward again.

I simply rolled my eyes before I scratched behind her ear earning coos from the mare.

"Be warned Cadence if this continues I will personally put an end to it and that's not the mood swings talking," Luna said with a murderous glare.

"Oh please auntie I'm not some succubus so chill," Cadence said.

"But she seems to act like one about 40% of the time," I said causing Luna to giggle and Cadence to cross her arms with a huff.

"Hey Ash I have to ask but what was it like to be a Spartan?" Rainbow asked.

"Rainbow Dash please," Rarity said.

"It was hard and I lost many good friends nothing more RD," I said.

The group was silent for a few minutes before Celestia sighed.

"Oh for goodness sake enough gloom please Hearts Warming is coming up and we should be preparing to celebrate," Celestia said.

"True that," Pinkie said causing us to smile.

Four Days Later Hearts Warming Eve

"Hey Dad do we get to spend another Hearts Warming at the castle?" Pip asked.

"Sure do Pip," I said as we walked through the snowy streets of Canterlot.

When Luna and I returned home and told the immortals of spending Hearts Warming Eve at the castle and invited them to join us but Feather Duster, Silver Tray and all the Immortals besides Lightning Dust already had plans so they couldn't come. But we made sure to decorate the house before we left we even invited Zecora, Snowdrop, Octavia, Vinyl, Fancy, Fleur and Saint Blade for the holiday which she agreed. And now Pip and I along with the rest of the CMC were walking through the city on our way to the castle after a little snowball fight.

"Hey Ash what do you think we'll get tomorrow?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Oh I couldn't tell ya that would be spoiling the fun of you all guessing," I said.

"Yeah Bloom we don't want to spoil it," Rumble said.

"Hey c'mon guys let’s get back to the castle and see what everyone is up too," I said as I led everyone inside the castle.

I found everyone in a room built for sitting back and relaxing where they seemed to be talking about the year and what they did and some of the family relatives were here as well.

"There you all are where ya'll been?" Applejack asked.

"Uncle Ash was playing with us out in the snow," Scootaloo said causing me and everyone to look at her in surprise.

"Uh Scoots what did you call me?" I asked.

"Uncle Ash well all of us except Pip seem to look at you that way," Scootaloo said causing the others to nod in agreement.

"Yeah when you think about it we all seem to act like one big family," Apple Bloom said.

I looked at the adults and see them look at each other before Luna stood up and kneeled in front of the foals.

"I guess that makes all of you my nieces and nephew," Luna said as she scooped the fouls up in her wing and began tickling them.

I took a couple off Luna's hands and began to tickle them myself and let them climb all over me much to the adults amusement before the door opened and there stood a dark orange filly with a hot pink mane and tail and the fringe kept getting in her eye. She was wearing dark grey boots and skirt with a white cut up shirt and leather jacket she even had a loop earing in her left ear.

"Cuz!" The filly screamed.

"Babs!" Apple Bloom screamed and she ran over and hugged the other filly.

"Ah you must be Babs Seed," I said as I put down Scootaloo and Rumble and walked over to the filly. "Apple Bloom here has told me a fair amount about you."

"Cuz why didn't you tell me you knew the knight of Equestria?" Babs asked in awe when she saw me.

"Well it appears I have a fan," I said with a chuckle.

"Aw wow can you please tell me about your adventures please?" Babs asked.

"I'd be happy to we've got some time before the Hearts Warming play starts,' I said as I led Babs to a vacant couch.

Babs wasn't alone the rest of the CMC wanted to hear a story from me but I just smiled before I told them an adventure and when it came time for the play I put on a Windigo costume and played my role. Cadence and Shining Armour were also Wendigo’s and they had gotten better with their howls and when the play ended and we sat down for dinner I continued to tell Babs about my adventures.

"Whoa that was awesome," Babs said after I finished telling the story of the Nuckelavee.

"True but he was harder to beat then I made it sound," I said.

"Hey can you tell us about the time you fought those zombies?" Rumble asked.

"Whoa now that's enough stories for one night I think," Twilight Velvet said.

"It's time for bed little ones," Granny Smith said causing the foals to whine.

"But were not sleepy," Pip said with an adorable yawn.

"How about I take them to bed," I offered.

"Thank you Ash," Granny Smith said before I gestured to the foals to follow me despite their protests.

I led the foals down the hallways to where they would be sleeping and let them get ready for bed before I made sure they were all snug in their beds.

"We can't fall asleep yet Uncle Ash were too excited to sleep," Sweetie Belle said.

"Well Pinkie is always excited and yet she goes to sleep but if you want I can help you all fall asleep," I said.

"How?" Babs asked.

I just smiled before I summoned a guitar and made sure it was all tuned up before I began to play.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFaagP2W1Vg

After I finished the song I looked at the foals and saw all of them were asleep and they were resting their heads against big fluffy pillows and just as big blankets only leaving their heads visible. All six foals looked so cute but I simply placed a kiss on each of the foals heads and left and when I closed the door and began to walk away when I saw everyone else was here.

"What?" I asked.

"Since when do you play guitar?" Granny Smith asked.

"Well I didn't know I could three days ago," I said giving a clear definition what I meant to the ones who knew.

"Well it's obvious you’re someone of many talents," Fleur said.

"Thank you Fleur," I said.

"So who exactly is this robin hood guy anyway," Spitfire asked.

"Well it appears I have a story to tell," I said before I led everyone back to the relaxation lounge.

I woke up to the sight of Luna's ethereal mane blowing in my face and tickling my nose but I just inhaled her lovely scent before I wrapped my arms around her and gently pulled her closer before I laid my hands on her stomach. Suddenly I felt our foal give a kick at my touch and causing Luna to stir she opened her eyes before she looked down at my hands on her stomach before she turned around and kissed me on the lips.

"Morning handsome," Luna said.

"Hello to you too beautiful," I said before Luna and I both nuzzled each other and stayed like that for a few minutes before we got dressed and left for the dining room for breakfast.

"Morning," Mac greeted once we stepped inside and saw everyone besides the foals.

"Hey everypony," I said as I sat down and was served breakfast immediately.

"Great story last night Ash it worked better than a glass of warm milk," Applejack said.

"Thanks it was one of my favourites by the way," I said.

"So where are the young ones I thought they would be first to wake up," Faust said.

The mane 6, stallions, Spike, Gilda, Trixie, Zecora, Octavia, Luna and I all either face palmed or groaned or both at the words. Two seconds later the CMC bust through the door on a food cart like last Hearts Warming except they were being chased by servants causing Eris, Rage, Lightning, Discord Dream Catcher, Chrysalis, Celestia and Vinyl to laugh their heads off. Meanwhile Faust and the parents plus Fancy, Fleur, Spitfire and Fleetfoot stared in shock while the rest of us sighed.

"I've got it," I said before I used my magic to halt the food cart in its tracks and t send the foals flying which I caught them in my magic.

"That will be all," Celestia said as she recovered from her laughter dismissing the servants.

Once they left everyone turned to look at the foals still being levitated in my magic and each one of the foals had a look of worry on their face.

"Simple question," I started causing all eyes to turn to me. "What is it with you foals and the food carts I mean you did this last year."

"It's a tradition we have," Rumble said.

"Tradition?" the adults asked in sync.

"Last Hearts Warming when we woke up Uncle Ash he said we had to go back to bed and wait for the sun to come up and if that we were that impatient find something to do so we came up with food cart driving," Apple Bloom said.

"Well gotta give em props for the creativity," Rage said.

"Rage please don't encourage it," Rarity said.

"Look let's talk about this later we'll have food now then we'll get on with the rest of the day cause honestly it’s too early in the day for a punishment," I said as I lowered the foals and let them take a seat at the table.

"My congratulations little ponies for making such wonderful chaos but it appears that I now have some competition," Discord said as he reached his paw under the table and six paws appeared one in front of each foal indicating a high five which the foals gave.

Soon we all finished breakfast and we walked into the throne room to receive gifts the pine tree was there beautifully decorated and the gifts were in piles thanks to Twilight's organisation skills. We all agreed to let the foals go first there were even gifts for Babs as well and the foals all smiled and cheered as they unwrapped their new toys and clothes before we got to the adults.

First Twilight and Trixie got their own copy of a rare magic book which there were only about five left in the world it cost a lot of bits but it was worth seeing those two going googly eyes over it. Next was Applejack and Rarity Applejack was difficult mare to get a gift for so I settled on a country themed sleeveless jacket with her cutie mark on the back. And for Rarity I got her a supply of sparkling cloth that once you cut out a piece it will flow in a non-existent wind just like the princess’s manes. And for something a little more permanent a sparkling crown that I made and gathered the gems myself.

Next came Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie I managed to get Fluttershy an emerald statue of a bunny and the reason she was crying was because it looked like Angel and thanks to a little work I managed to get the smile just right. Pinkie Pie I got her a board game she has been begging to get and when she saw it she started vibrating rapidly and bouncing off the walls like a bouncy ball before she crashed into me with a giant hug. When that was over I looked at Rainbow, Gilda and Lightning Dust who were opening their own gifts. Rainbow got an aviator jacket that was worn by one of the first female Wonderbolts and it was preserved in a frame for her to hang up in her home. Gilda got a spiked leather jacket with her bird skull cutie mark on the back in between the wing slits along with a new pair of spiked combat boots and spiked braces. Lightning got a book of greatest flyers and pilots in Equestria history and as she looked through the book she saw her grandfather among them.

I got Zecora a copy of a potions book from the knights of Equestria and as for Fancy Pants, Fleur and Saint Blade I got Fancy a new molecule where the rim was made up of crushed diamond and the necklace for Fleur like the one I made for Rarity. Only with one added feature in the centre of the upside down triangle made of gems was Fleur's cutie mark and for Saint I got him a squeaky golden apple for when he starts teething. And as for Vinyl and Octavia I got them both CD's from my world of some music they'd like along with a few of Lindsey Stirling and each one signed by her as well.

Next came the stallions and Spike first I got Spike a new gem kit cause his old one was wrecked by Tirek and Mac I got him a new watch while Pierce got a new set of earrings and Comet an updated star chart. I got Thunderlane a signed wing ball from a famous player and Soarin a hoof ball also signed by a player and Caramel I got him a hammer that belonged to a famous blacksmith and was sealed in a case.

I looked at Spitfire and Fleetfoot and saw them pull out a model of World War 2 planes a Spitfire for Spitfire and a Mosquito for Fleetfoot when Fleetfoot asked why I got her a plane named after a pest I told her about one of the planes daring missions to fly into Berlin Germany during broad daylight and disrupt a parade then bomb parts of Berlin. And when the AA defences went up the plane had to escape at street level and all the Wonderbolts plus Rainbow, Gilda and Lightning were blown away when I told them that the plane was made of cloth and timber, and yet it had the least casualties in the entire war. When I told Fleetfoot about her speed and manoeuvrability reminds me of the plane it caused her to puff her chest out with pride.

I then turned to look at Discord and saw him holding a silver stick with buttons on it I told him it was for him to make a blank dimension where he can create as much chaos as he wishes which caused him to positively beam at before he slithered around me and began to crush me like an anaconda. But after the 'hug' I saw Eris pull out a gumball dispenser which made her get all giddy and begin to crush me just like Discord. Once I recovered I looked at Dream Catcher and saw her pull out a necklace with her cutie mark on it and just like her name it was a dream catcher which was made of sapphires. And for Chrysalis she pulled out a silver bracelet which had a beautiful gold and emerald wings dragon fly on it, the wings themselves were so thin they made the insect look lifelike along with the detail etched into the wings.

I looked Celestia and Faust next and I saw Celestia pull out a new golden tiara much like her old one but instead of the purple gem in the centre was a massive diamond that went through to the other side of the crown, along with smaller multi-coloured triangle shaped gems went around it making it look like a sun and when I told Celestia to put in the light and when she did the gems made a multi-coloured beam of light causing ohs and ahs to come from everyone. When it came to Faust I had great difficulty in thinking of a gift for her but when it hit me I didn't hesitate to get started and when she pulled out her gift she was in tears. It was a picture of everyone together in a photo frame that had everyone in the pictures cutie marks around it with Faust's on top and in the centre.

Finally I brought Rage's gift over to him and let him unwrap it to reveal a black case and when he opened he gasped and revealed a flaming red electric guitar with a flame pattern and a pair of crossed blades on it.

"Dude how'd you know?" Rage asked.

"I'd be a pretty stupid brother if I didn't know your interests," I said.

"Well thanks man," Rage said.

"Snowdrop this is yours," I said as I handed a small present to Snowdrop.

Snowdrop unwrapped the gift to reveal a hand held music box she felt the device and she seemed to know what it is because she began to turn the handle.

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

"Ash thank you," Snowdrop said as she hugged me and I hugged her back before I turned to Luna and picked up my last gift

"And my last gift goes to you Luna," I said as I handed a rectangular present to Luna.

Luna took the gift and opened it revealing a wooden box with her cutie mark on top and in the centre of it. Luna then opened the lid and saw the inside was midnight blue with constellations and an assortment of brushes, multi-coloured paints and pencils all of them in order and easy to find. Inside of the box on the lid right below the full moon was a silver plaque with the words 'to my angel in the night' engraved on it.

"Ash there are no words," Luna said as she looked at the box in awe.

"I'm glad you like it Luna," I said.

"Ash I don't like it I love it," Luna said as she grabbed me then smashed her lips against my mouth causing the foals to ew at the sight.

Before I knew it I was smothered in hugs by everyone.

"Time for your gifts Ash," Twilight said before she handed me a book shaped present I unwrapped the gift and found out it was a book about all my adventures.

I received many wonderful gifts from everyone but the favourite so far was from Faust it was a silver arm bracelet made up of a pair of circles held together by a pair of wolf heads and crossed swords behind both heads and I didn't even hesitate to put it on.

"This is from me Ash," Rage said as he handed me a box.

I unwrapped the gift and what I saw shocked me beyond words it was the grey blanket I owned as a baby when I was placed in the Tree of Life.

"Rage you...," I started.

"Yeah I figured you'd want that back it was important to you for some time after all," Rage said before I stood up and hugged him. "Hey there's another gift as well."

I looked back inside the box and pulled it out making the others gasp it was a polished silver gauntlet for my left hand with a black tribal wolf pattern engraved into it. But the main feature was that the fingers were claws made for hacking and slashing I put on the gauntlet and flexed my fingers to see it was working perfectly.

"Damn that's cool," Gilda said.

"So true," I said as I went to hug Rage only to remember the claw so I took it off and hugged him.

"And the last is from me Ash," Luna said as she held an envelope out to me.

I sat down next to Luna and took my gift but not before exchanging a kiss to Luna and when I opened my gift tears fell from my eyes and when everyone asked what it was I reviled it to be our child's first photo still inside Luna's stomach which everyone grew excited for. I then placed a finger on the child's outstretched hand in the picture before I summoned the memory album and put the photo inside. I then had a quick look at the other photo's in the book and memories of us taking each picture filled my head before I closed the book.

Author's Notes:

Dear Readers

I have had a thought that has been bugging me for awhile now in many anime I have seen when someone is about to attack they normally shout out the name for the attack for example.

(Warning may contain spoilers for one piece fans

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DIUJCCX141E

Anyway do you readers think I should add it into my story if so please say so.