Ash P.O.V

I slowly opened my eyes and the first thing I saw was a fancy room filled with items that reminded me of Canterlot. I sat up and looked around and discovered I was in some light blue silk summer pyjamas and the room was the same as the guest rooms in Canterlot Castle. I soon noticed a window that confirmed my location.

"Canterlot Castle huh how'd I get here?" I asked myself

I stood up and cracked my limbs I then remembered the events from before I blacked out I looked at my right hand and saw that all the destroyed flesh was whole again and not a scar was left behind either. I then noticed the zombie bite mark was also gone as well along with the slash on my upper arm from when I first met Gilda.

"Odd," I said.

I looked around and saw some casual clothing on a chair before I walked over to them and picked them before I walked into the bathroom to carry out my morning routine. But, when I looked at the mirror above the sink I saw something was different about my face. I walked over to it and looked into the mirror till I figured it out. The three scars I got from Gilda that went over my eye were gone as well like that were never there.

"Ok this is getting weird now…But, I wonder...," I said before I removed my top to reveal my chest was completely devoid of all the scars I got from my time as a slave and any others.

I was beyond shock when I saw my chest was clear of any scaring a thought then occurred to me causing me to take several deep breaths. I turned around but kept my wings folded over my back and closed my eyes slowly I moved my wings out of my line of sight from my back and opened my eyes. When I saw my back I was beyond words at the time instead of seeing the mark that showed I was once a slave I saw something else.

"The hell...Where'd you come from not that I'm complaining that the old one is gone but wow," I said.

I reached around and gently placed a hand on the new mark and for a split second I thought I saw it glow but dispersed the thought before I went to take care of what I came in here for.

I walked out of the guest room clean and fully clothed before I walked down the hallways to the dining room. I checked the time on my IPod and saw it was 8:36 in the morning giving me some time for breakfast and while I walked I saw plenty of castle staff around. They all gave smiles and waves and a congratulations on my family's and my awakening and I greeted everything with either a smile a wave or a thanks as I made my way to the dining room. The room was bare except for the chairs, table, dinning cloth and utensils on it and I saw Perfect Serve walk in from the kitchen whistling a tune to herself.

"Hello Serve," I said causing her to shriek and almost leap out of her skin.

"Oh...is just zee Ash," Perfect said as she held a hand over her chest in relief.

"Apologises Serve it wasn't my intention to startle you like that," I said.

"Is quite alright but what can zee great Perfect Serve do for you Ash no doubt you are here for breakfast oui?" Perfect Serve asked.

"Spot on Serve," I said.

"Just take a seat Ash and I will bring you your food momentarily," Perfect Serve said before she walked back inside the kitchen.

Doing as I was told I took a seat and waited for Perfect serve to return which wasn't too long before she set a covered plate down in front of me and removed the lid to reveal pancakes, bacon and a mix of morning fruits along with a glass of orange juice.

"Thank you Serve," I said before I dug into my food.

"You are most welcome Ash," Perfect Serve said before she began to walk away.

"Hey Serve tell me when did I arrive in Canterlot?" I asked as I ate.

"Three months ago Ash, it was quite a fuss when the Royal Family failed to arrive for the summer sun celebration as well everyone was asking zo many questions about what had happened. Also the questions intensified when everypony saw your condition but there was no comment from anyone," Perfect Serve said.

"I see…probably for the best too," I said keeping my surprise of being in a coma for three months to myself as I placed an apple slice in my mouth.

"Ash if I may-," Perfect started.

"I know what you’re going to ask Serve but let me be clear it's better if no one knows what happened at all cause if I did it would be enough to traumatize several guards," I said.

"When you say it like that I guess it is for the best and the important thing is that everyone is okay," Perfect Serve said with a small smile.

"Speaking of everyone where are they?” I asked.

"Well I know zee Bearers along with their coltfriend and friends along with zee Immortals have left for Ponyville when you arrived along with Princess Luna and your sons but they came back here for some reason so I believe they are around," Perfect Serve said.

I gave a nod before I finished my breakfast and was about to bring up a new topic with Perfect Serve. But, before I could utter a word the main door to the hallway opened and I saw the royal assistant Kibitz walk in. He was an elderly unicorn stallion with a light cream coat and grey mane that went around the back of his head making him look bald on top and he had a splendid grey moustache and a pair of glasses that just sat comfortably on his muzzle. He was wearing a red coat and matching pants and he had a golden pocket watch in his coat pocket all in all the style of his very being suited him wonderfully. I bet my right leg Rarity couldn't make a better match even if she tried I then noticed the expression on his face was on of tiredness.

"Hello Kibitz," I said.

"Oh greetings Master Ash I was not aware you were up," Kibitz said.

"Kibitz I've told you before the master thing isn't necessary cause I'm not in charge please address me as Ash," I said.

"I still find it improper to address my superiors in such a way," Kibitz said with his head held high causing me to roll my eyes with a smile.

"Anyway Kibitz why so tired normally you're full of energy," I said.

"Indeed I am but today the entire schedule has been cancelled because our leaders had to introduce both Queen Faust Prince Pipsqueak and Prince Midnight Star to the other leaders of our planet," Kibitz said.

"Oh so that’s the reason they came…Well seeing as I don’t have anything to do is there some way I can help?" I asked Kibitz then looked at me with a raised eyebrow before he looked me over for a few times with a hand stroking his chin. "Uh Kibitz is something wrong?"

"No in fact quite the opposite Master Ash you see Princess Celestia has told me how you continue to refuse the Royal title," Kibitz said.

"Is this true Ash?" Perfect Serve asked in surprise.

"Well…Yeah but Kibitz what does this have to do with anything?" I asked.

"Quite simple Master Ash if the Royal Family recognizes you to be worthy of the crown then you can complete the schedule required for today," Kibitz said.

"So you’re asking me to rule in the Royal’s stead while they are gone?" I asked.

"That's the civilian’s way of putting it but yes," Kibitz said plainly.

I was thrown for multiple loops at the request for many people this is a dream come true. But, for me well I was less than enthusiastic.

"Uh Kibitz is this even allowed can't my brother or hell even Discord or Eris handle this?" I asked.

"The only one besides you that's able to rule that didn't go with the proper rulers is Prince Blueblood. And I'm sure you know as well as I do that he's not the most favourite of the royal bloodline," Kibitz said with a worried look.

I closed my eyes and went into deep thought about what to do. I thought about me ruling for the day and how bad I could screw up or succeed in doing a good job. I then thought about Blueblood being in charge and to be honest my brain refused to even think about such a thing.

"Well I guess I could and the reason I'm doing this is because both of us know that Blueblood being in charge is not a good idea," I said.

"Marvellous now we must be off we're already 4 minutes behind schedule," Kibitz said as he pulled out a long scroll.

"Wow you and Twilight would totally hit it off in organizing stuff," I said.

"Who do you think taught Princess Twilight Sparkle now we must hurry," Kibitz said as he led me out of the dining room but not before I said goodbye to Perfect Serve and thought about what I was getting myself into.

An Hour Later

Jeez Kibitz do the princesses and Faust do this every day?" I asked as I rubbed my left temple.

"Yes and with both dignity and grace Master Ash so I suggest you stop dragging yourself honestly you're acting like Princess Luna when she tried to rule over the day," Kibitz said.

"Ugh no offence Kibitz but clearly you can't see the difference I'm not the princesses or Faust I'm a human being that's just started to rule a country without any lessons on what to do," I said.

"That may be true but by some miracle we're perfectly on schedule I must say I am truly impressed on how you handled that situation with the drought in Appleloosa so quickly normally it would take hours or days for such a thing to be sorted. How did you know about the overflowing lake just north of a rock farm belonging to a Mr Igneous Rock and Mrs Cloudy Quartz?" Kibitz asked.

“Those two that you mentioned are Pinkie Pie’s parents and Pinkie Pie told me the lake was becoming dangerous for their home so I just stepped in and helped solve two problems," I said.

"I see well it was very fortunate that you brought it up," Kibitz said.

"This is outrageous!"

"Oh no just shoot me now," I grumbled.

I followed the sound of the voice and found Blueblood was yelling at a guard.

"Every single member of the castle staff should know that when the throne is vacant of any of the rulers excluding me I am to be summoned to lead our fair country!" Blueblood screeched.

"We are aware sir but-," the guard started.

"Then why in the name of Tartarus didn't somepony send for me?" Blueblood screamed.

"Because I’m leading the country," I said making our presence known.

"YOU! And what do you mean you’re leading the country?" Blueblood demanded.

"It means Blueblood I'm in charge of ruling the country today or until the princesses and Queen Faust return from meeting with the leaders," I said.

"You…A monster ruling the country…Don't be absurd you have no blood relation to royalty whatsoever so I'm afraid your little reign as king for the day has ended. I will be taking over now and as my first act as temporally leader is I sentence you to the dungeons for impersonating royalty," Blueblood said.

"I’m afraid Blueblood that the princesses themselves actually requested Ash to rule over today," Kibitz said.

"They did?" Blueblood asked in shock.

"They did?" I asked.

"Yes they did now if you'll excuse us this delay has thrown us 1 whole minute off schedule," Kibitz said as he walked around Blueblood.

"This isn't over freak," Blueblood said.

"Oh for the love of- I've absolutely had it with you Blueblood later today why don't we settle this," I said.

"Are you challenging me to a duel?" Blueblood asked with a smirk.

"Are you afraid?" I asked causing Blueblood to scoff.

"As if what threat could you possibly hold against me?" Blueblood asked causing me the move close to his face till I completely filled his vision.

"One that you should never tempt to anger," I growled causing him to seat slightly before I followed Kibitz and waited till we were out of earshot. "Are you sure it was a wise idea to lie to Blueblood like that?"

"It's better to lie then leave him in charge and I can't bring myself to clean up after him yet again," Kibitz said.

"I see but you just strike me as the type that never lies like Applejack," I said.

"I'm not overly fond of it mind you Master Ash," Kibitz said.

"Don't worry I know what you’re talking about. Now changing the subject may I see the schedule?" I asked while Kibitz handed the scroll to me allowing me to analyse it. "Kibitz I've noticed this a few times there have been certain appointments that relate to the same thing. But they are in different rooms and at different times,"

"The reason why they are at different times is because of that is when they have scheduled an appointment and as for the different rooms, they were available at the time. Why is something wrong?" Kibitz asked.

"Yes it seems silly for the schedule to be like this and if it was like this with Luna I wouldn't be surprised if it tired her out. I can only imagine how Celestia was able to keep doing this for so long," I said.

"Yes well we deal with the appointments as they come in yes but it allows the princesses to exercise by walking about the castle," Kibitz said.

"We I'm afraid I don't work like that so I think we're going to change it a bit. First off I want every single appointment that's related to another to be forged into one and have them placed in one room at the earliest possible time after we take care of all the single appointments," I said.

"Master Ash we simply can't do that now think of how much time it will throw off," Kibitz said.

"I'm not implying that you do it yourself Kibitz there are other ponies in the castle that can help get this done. And with you directing them cause you know the schedule better than anyone we can get this done quicker," I said.

Kibitz looked to be in deep thought for a few minutes I was a little nervous that he wouldn't approve till finally he nodded.

"Very well Ash we will do the schedule your way I just hope this ends well," Kibitz said.

"Thank you Kibitz I'll work doubly hard if we fall behind schedule but for now what's next?" I asked.

"Now is Princess Celestia's fencing class with Mrs Fleur Der Lis but we can skip this one but we will need to inform Mrs Der Lis of Princess Celestia's absence," Kibitz said.

"Fleur fencing this I didn't expect she must be good if she is teaching Celestia wait a minute...,” I thought. "Actually Kibitz keep that open I need to brush up on my fencing skills so this will be a perfect opportunity for me. And while I'm taking care of that you can get started on altering the schedule,"

"Very well Master Ash," Kibitz said before we walked off.

3:00 pm Throne Room

I was sitting on the throne and I had to say the damn thing was comfortable but I guess that was to be expected if the princesses were going to spend who knows how long on this thing. But I felt like a kid who was doing something he shouldn't be doing and was afraid of getting caught. I was currently holding day court and the nobles were shocked to see me sitting on the throne and not the princesses and most of them demanded answers. But Kibitz explained the situation to them and they seemed to either calm down and explain their problem or leave saying they will schedule another appointment when the princesses return. I discovered that it was not only nobles that came here but also casual civilians and Kibitz gave me useful tips. The problems were very easy to solve yet there were still those with selfish interests and non-important complaints. Honestly just how stupid to these guys think I am I wondered to myself several times when let’s say they said they were to be given say a ton of bits from the royal treasury and that they were here to collect. It's like they just expect me to heed their orders like a trained dog but I had other things to say because this wolf doesn't play ball that way.

"Alright Kibitz whose next?" I asked.

"Noble Ebony Rule the fourth Master Ash," Kibitz said.

The main doors opened to reveal a white unicorn with a golden mane and tail and wore a blue and gold fake fur coat and he seemed surprised to see me.

"Forgive me but I thought one of our princesses would be taking an audience with me today," Ebony Rule said.

"The princesses have taken an unexpected leave of absence so I have been filling the throne for today," I explained.

"I see I have heard tales of your heroics I must say it is quite an honour to meet you," Ebony Rule said with a small bow.

"So he's going to play it like that huh butter me up before he tells me a useless complaint *sigh* still I’d better hear him out in case I’m wrong," I thought "Thank you Ebony Rule now tell me why have you come?"

Well for you see Princess Celestia gave my grandfather Ebony Rule the first my great, great granduncles heirloom after he died. His great, great, great grandfather before received an estate and the title of a noble for fending off a rampaging dragon single handed from Canterlot, and what a fierce battle it was. I still have a very old painting hanging in my second living room which clearly shows how he defeats the evil dragon with his own bare hands while other ponies could only stare in awe at the heroic deed. Imagine it for a moment a big-" Ebony Rule started before I raised my hand.

"Ebony Rule I am not aware on who this pony was and what he had done to serve Equestria however such tales are not meant to be told at this time because the hours of the day are burning fast and I have others to see. So out of great respect stop wasting my time and get to the point," I said as I rested my mouth behind my hands which were folded in front of my face and my elbows rested on my knees as I glared at Ebony Rule who was mimicking a fish.

It took a minute for Ebony Rule to recompose himself before he spoke.

"Y-Yes of course sir my apologies I will get straight to the point you see, the house I inherited has lately become the scene of terrible vandalism," Ebony Rule said.

"Vandalism?" I asked.

"Yes from the orphans of Canterlot," Ebony Rule said causing me to raise an eyebrow. "The children from the Canterlot Orphanage which right next to my home are constantly crying or screaming when they're either outside or inside. It disturbs me from having my beauty sleep and the chalk they always draw in front of my house with their chalk. Do you know what chalk does to my beautiful horseshoes it is terrible I tell you. We need to get rid of the orphanage as quickly as possible, destroy it and replace it with something that truly shows the glamour of our glorious-,"

ENOUGH! I roared in the Canterlot Royal Voice as I stood up in a snap and extended my wings to full extent paralysing Ebony Rule in fear. "Let me get this straight you come here and tell me a nice story and then request we spend a ton of bits in the destruction of an orphanage, just because children are simply being children?" I asked in a cold tone as I walked down the steps keeping my glare trained on Ebony Rule. "Tell me has the property been damaged in any way?" I asked as reached Ebony Rule who shook his head in reply. "Do they draw on the walls of the building or fences?" Ebony Rule shook his head again. "Have the children done anything that is considered against the law and before you answer think carefully,"

"N-No they haven't," Ebony Rule said.

"Leave," I said as I turned around and folded my wings back up.

"But what about the noise and the chalk?" Ebony Rule asked.

"There's a new device everyone is talking about called earplugs and if it's not enough try putting on some music or having sleeping tablets. And as for the chalk no one will be able to see your hooves because of the cloak you’re wearing and if it's such a bother go ask the kids politely to not draw on the pavement in front of your home. Now Begone With You Before I Turn Your Mane Into A Rainbow Coloured Afro!" I shouted as I looked back at him causing Ebony Rule to grip his mane and scramble out of the room. I walked up the stairs and collapsed onto the throne before I looked at Kibitz who was staring at me. "I suppose I could have handled that better."

"Actually you handled that exactly how the princesses would have handled it seems they know how to pick the leaders wouldn't you say," Kibitz said as he went back to the schedule.

"Maybe but anyway whose next?" I asked.

"Actually we're done. I am greatly impressed we managed to finish earlier than even Princess Celestia and Queen Faust Master Ash. And I’ll admit this new organisation system works wonders it will certainly help with future duties," Kibitz said.

"C'mon Kibitz I was just using simple logic I'm sure you would be able to see that if you tried," I said.

"Perhaps," Kibitz said.

"Well any way I suppose I should get ready. Can you tell Blueblood that we'll meet in the training arena once I'm ready?" I asked as I stood up.

"Ready for what?"

I looked at the doorway and saw all my friends from Ponyville (Except Twilight) where here along with Spitfire, Fleetfoot, Fancy Pants and Fleur.

"Oh hey you guys what are you all doing here?" I asked as I walked down the throne stairs to greet them.

"We came to visit you darling and see how you were feeling," Rarity said.

"Well as you can see I'm feeling great," I said.

"Um excuse me,"

I turned around to see a white furred mare with a black mane done up in a bun she wore black framed glasses and wore a grey business suit, she also had a pencil tucked behind her right ear and was holding a clip board in her left arm.

"Should I place these with the others?" the mare asked as she showed me a small stack of papers attached to her clipboard.

"Oh yes thank you Raven and that is all for today you too Kibitz after you deliver the message get some rest and enjoy the rest of the day I'd say you both need it," I said.

"Thank you Master Ash," the two said before they left.

"What's going on? They're treating you like you're in charge of the country or something," Thunderlane said causing me to rub the back of my neck with a sheepish smile.

"Wait a second are you in charge?" Spike asked.

"Uh maybe," I said.

"Holy Buck Ash is the ruler of Equestria!" Rainbow shouted.

"I know…I was surprised when I saw Ash show up instead of Celestia for her fencing lesson,” Fleur said

"Fleur you do fencing?" Rarity asked in surprise.

"I'm not just a pretty face Rarity a mare must always know how to take care of herself whatever the case," Fleur said.

"So you going to switch some rules around now that you're in charge?" Soarin asked.

"Don't get any ideas smart ass this only for today cause if I didn't Blueblood would be in charge," I said causing everyone to shudder.

"Well glad you stepped in when you did," Fleetfoot said.

"Heh it's tougher than it looks I just hope I did a good job…oh I just remembered what happened after I blacked out?" I asked.

"Not much really except Faust received some memories from the Outsider but she wouldn't say what they were until she talked to you. The press certainly was a pain when we got back we had to be smuggled out of Canterlot. You were in pretty bad condition so we left you here and Luna kept visiting you along with Pip and Midnight," Comet said.

I see…and Fluttershy," I said startling the Pegasus slightly causing her to let out a cute eep.

"Um yes Ash?" Fluttershy asked hiding behind her mane.

I walked over to her and wrapped both my arms and wings around her.

"Thank you Flutters you saved my life and I'm very proud on how brave you were back there and I'm honoured to call you my friend," I said with a smile as I hugged the mare and from what I could guess she was blushing like crazy before I let her go. "So I assume you guys are ticked that I didn't tell about the guys Octavia, Vinyl, Quick Shot, and Lightning and myself are members of the assassin brotherhood, so if you're going to hit me just get it over with."

I closed my eyes and held my arms out bracing for the pain only it never came I opened any eye and saw all of them were smiling at me.

"Don't sweat it Ash, Rage told why you didn't involve us and why these guys joined although I don't like the methods I can understand the cause is reasonable," Applejack said.

"Besides it's kinda hot to date a guy who’s an assassin even done a little role playing in bed," Rainbow said with seductive smile aimed at Soarin

"Ok I didn't need to know that but does this mean you guys are off the hook?" I asked as I looked at the stallions.

"Oh I wouldn't say that," Applejack said as she gave Caramel a look.

"They are being punished but not as harshly as you think," Rarity said.

"I see doubt Luna's going to give me the same treatment…Oh listen to me prattle on when I have a duel to get to," I said as I stepped around the group.

"A duel with who," Gilda asked.

"Blueblood I'm going to put him in his place permanently," I said.

"Mind if we watch? I've been begging to see someone take Blueblood down a peg or two," Spitfire asked.

"I don't mind," I said.

"*gasp* Ideeeeea," Rarity said in a sing song voice as she ran to the door grabbing my arm along the way and dragging me behind.

"Rarity what are you doing?" I asked managing to keep up with the fashionista.

"You simply can't duel in those clothes I recommend doing it in style," Rarity said as we reached the castle's fabric room. But before I could say anything Rarity pushed me inside and placed me on the measurement podium just as the others arrived. "Now Ash I need to take your measurements so can you please take off your jacket and shirt?"

"Alright," I said as I removed both and let everyone get an eyeful of my chest.

"*whistle* Wow Ash what happened to all your scars?" Spike asked.

"Huh oh yeah I woke up this morning and all of them were just gone," I said.

"I thought something was missing when I first saw you the claw marks over your eye I gave ya are gone," Gilda said.

"Well I think Ash looks better without such hideous reminders of his past," Rarity said as she held the measuring tape in her magic.

"That's not all check this," I said as I turned around and showed them my new mark getting awe filled mutters from everyone.

"Trixie was not expecting that," Trixie said.

"True it's certainly unique," Octavia said.

"I think it's awesome what do you three think?" Rainbow asked looking at Lightning Dust, Gilda and Vinyl.

"Ya damn right that's awesome," Vinyl said.

"So true as Rainbow would say that's 20% cooler," Lightning said.

"Any idea what it is Ash?" Gilda asked.

"Got me," I said.

"Well as divine as that mark is compared to the old one let's get these measurements shall we," Rarity said before she started.

"Well what do you think?" Rarity asked as she circled me studying me in my new clothes.

"It's very...black," I said.

"I know you look absolutely smashing," Rarity said before she handed me a black wide circular brim hat.

"You sure this is appropriate for a duel the cape seems like it will be in the way certainly make it hard on my wings as well," I said as I put on the hat.

"It's supposed to be a fight on the ground Ash it would hardly seem fair," Rarity said.

"Yeah you’re right that was a stupid thing to say," I said.

"Hey shall we go I want to see Blueblood get his flanked kicked," Spike said.

"Yeah, yeah I'm coming," I said.

We walked down the hallway while Pinkie explained how excited she was till we came to the training area. I saw my opponent was there and he was wearing what looked to be musketeer clothing decorated in gold and brown but he wasn't wearing the feathered hat. I noticed Rarity was casting a disgusted glance at Blueblood if it was at Blueblood or the clothes he was wearing or both I couldn't tell.

"I see you brought the little tramp from the Grand Galloping Gala," Blueblood sneered.

Rarity's eyes lit up with a cold piercing fire and she was about to storm right over to Blueblood and do who knows what if I didn't hold an arm out to stop her.

"She actually came to watch me kick your sorry flank Blueballs," I said causing my friends to laugh and for Blueblood to grit his teeth.

"Well I hope you don't mind if I brought some company of my own do you," Blueblood said as he gestured to the viewing area and I saw a large audience of nobles.

"I should have known he'd try this," Fancy Pants said.

"No sweat I've handled stuff like this before," I said.

"Good luck Ash," Spike said.

I gave him a smile before I walked into the arena while my friends went to find a place to sit.

"Now if I'm not mistaking Blueblood it's customary for the challenged party to pick the weapon we will fight with correct?" I asked.

"Oh so you do have manners yes it is customary," Blueblood said.

"Well please pick up a weapon," I said as I gestured to the rack of weapons.

Blueblood walked over to the rack and looked over each weapon closely and picked up a rapier. I gave a nod before I too walked over to the rack and picked up another rapier and attached the scabbard to my hip.

"Shall we begin?" Blueblood asked.

"Let's," I said as I walked over to Blueblood and drew my sword before I gave a nod to Fleur who pulled out a handkerchief and held it above her head.

"Let the match...Begin!" Fleur shouted as she brought her arm down beginning the duel.

Blueblood attacked first but I parred his attack and he ran past me and I used my blade to trip him up causing him to roll along the dirt and causing my friends to snicker.

"Have a nice trip Blueballs?" I asked in an amused tone.

Blueblood only snarled before he lunged at me again his attacks were wide and somewhat sloppy and his anger made it obvious who would win this fight. But I could also see he was no amateur his footing for example was good and he at least held up his guard. I waited for a good opportunity to strike back I then dodged left as he made a thrust and kicked his blade out of his hand. All eyes watched the blade before I caught it and held both blades in an X at Blueblood's throat.

"Yield," I said.

Suddenly I see Blueblood look in to my right and I turn to see one of Blueblood's guards try to skewer me with a rapier. But I blocked the attack and moved away to see two of Blueblood's guards were in the arena with me and Blueblood and both were pointing rapiers at me.

"What kind of fair fight is this?" Rainbow shouted causing several other nobles to shout in agreement.

I saw some of my friends were about to jump in and help when I held my hand out and stopped them before I tossed Bluebloods sword back to Blueblood.

"If Blueballs wants to fight like the snake he his then so be it however I'll stick to the rules now let's see whose better shall we?" I asked as I got into a stance.

As one Blueblood and his guards attacked I leapt backwards and fought all three of them at once. I couldn't help but crack a smile at the thought of Rainbow's reaction to this. Soon the guard on Blueblood's left lunged and I stepped to the left and banged the hilt of my sword on his helmet hard enough to knock him out. The guard on Blueblood's right went with an overhead strike but I blocked his attack and punched him in the face with my left hand causing him to spin and fall unconscious. Blueblood suddenly made a horizontal slash but I slapped his hand with the blade of my rapier causing him to drop his sword. I held my blade at Blueblood's cheek gently pressing it against him and looked into Blueblood's eyes and tilted my head to the side. In three quick flicks of my hand I carved an A into Bluebloods cheek causing him to scream and fall on his back screaming it hurts.

"Pathetic," I said under my breath before I wiped the blood off my sword with Blueblood's clothes.

Suddenly I hear an applause come from the audience and I give a bow before I walk out of the arena and see the others.

Whoo nelly Ash when did you learn to fight like that?" Applejack asked.

"It was sometime in the 1821 I was in Spain at the time and Fleur helped me refresh my technique," I said.

"Believe me I was just as surprised when I saw Ash's swordplay," Fleur said.

"Ash is this Spain the same place you learned to dance when you were with me at the masquerade party before Hearts Warming Eve?" Rarity asked.

(Yes and you dance beautifully Rarity) I said in Spanish, Suddenly both Rarity and Fleur fainted dramatically into their lover/husbands arms at my words. "Wow didn't know it was that effective,"

Third Person P.O.V

"Oh stars above what a trip I was hoping we could get back after I lowered the sun," Celestia said tiredly as she walked through the doors that lead into the castle.

"Uh no kidding I'm not looking forward to all the work we need to catch up on," Chrysalis said.

"Glad I'm not you guys," Discord said lounging on his back in mid-air.

"Ugh you guys can deal with it tomorrow for now why don't we just grab something to eat it's been a long trip," Rage suggested.

"Sounds like a plan I'm starving," Twilight said.

The royals walked through the hallways till they arrived at the dining room where they saw a familiar group of friends sitting down at the table playing a few board games.

"What the…What are you guys doing here?!" Twilight shrieked.

"Oh hey egghead how’s your trip?" Rainbow asked as everyone at the table looked at the newcomers.

"Sorry we probably should have asked to use your table but it's just you weren't here at the time," Fluttershy said.

"It's quite alright Fluttershy and how’s your injury fully recovered I hope?” Faust said.

"Oh yes thank you that strange fire from Ash's sword really helped, along with Holy Light's medical skills," Fluttershy said.

"But the question remains why are you all here?" Dream Catcher asked.

"Oh we came to see how Ash was doing and we saw he was up and about and full of energy," Pinkie said as she rolled a dice and moved her piece on the board.

"Ash is awake?" Luna asked causing Faust to frown.

"Yep he was busier than a bee collecting nectar during spring," Applejack said.

"Busy, busy how?" Cadence asked.

"I believe I can answer that,"

The royals turned around and saw Kibitz walk in.

"Kibitz I am so sorry we had to run out on you today," Celestia apologised.

"Think nothing of it your majesty I understand completely but it wasn't a total loss Ash managed to step in and take care of everything," Kibitz said.

"Huh?" The royals asked in sync.

"Hang on this is the same Ash were talking about right the one who continues to reject the crown no matter how many times you ask him right?" Rage asked.

"The very same Master Rage and you wouldn't what he has been able to do he completed not one but two days of work and finish at 3:05pm. Also he fixed the schedule order so you can finish you're duties earlier," Kibitz said causing the royals to go slack jawed.

"Wha…h-how?" Celestia asked.

I don't know Princess but he adapted to everything rather quickly it was almost like second nature to him. I am truly impressed by this one your highnesses you should read the notes from how Master Ash handled Ebony Rule and the other nobles who tried to play him for a fool I do believe they won’t ever try a stunt like that again after what Ash said to them also solved the Appaloosa drought problem in less than five minutes," Kibitz said causing Faust to smile a bit and the other royals mouths to drop.

“What the, that takes us days to sought out how did he-?” Chrysalis started.

“Miss Pinkamina’s family had a lake nearby that was filling up with too much water at the time endangering the owners of the land with flooding and the resident was very close to Appleossa and with a little effort from Cloudsdale the water should’ve reached Appleossa by 10 o’clock am Princess,” Kibitz said.

“Two birds with one stone nicely done,” Cadence said.

“Wowser Ash is so smart,” Pinkie Pie said.

“Remind me tah thank him for helping out my cousin, that drought was causing some serious problems for the townsfolk,” Applejack said.

"What do you think made him take on the role of royalty?" Eris asked.

"Forgive me your majesties but it was because I asked him too," Kibitz said.

"I Knew It!"

Everyone turned to the door to see Blueblood with a furious expression on his face.

"Oh great it's prince Blueballs," Soarin said causing Rage, Shining, Discord the group of friends and some of the royals to explode in laughter.

"Hahahahaha who came up with that one?" Rage asked through his laughter on his hands and knees.

"Ash is the guilty party," Lightning said while hovering in mid-air.

“That’s about right,” Discord said between breaths for air.

"Nephew what happened to your cheek?" Celestia asked when she saw the red A on his cheek.

"That abomination of an ape did this," Blueblood shouted while pointing at his cheek.

"Well you should thank him it appears to be an improvement," Shining said earning a light slap on his shoulder from Cadence.

"I knew it was you Kibitz the moment you appeared alongside that beast. You have no right to allow that, that thing to lead our country. It's also not fair to steal my right to rule when the princesses are elsewhere," Blueblood said.

"Now wait half an apple picking minute you know nothing of fair cause if you did you wouldn't have brought your guards into that duel you had earlier with Ash. And maybe you wouldn't have that A branded onto ya face. The only thing fair in that duel earlier was how Ash fought against you," Applejack said as she stood up and walked over to Blueblood and pointed a finger at his face.

"Don't you dare point your dirty fingers at me you country bumpkin," Blueblood said causing the mane 6, Mac and Caramel to tense up before they backed away or hid behind their seats.

Applejack just gave a growl before she turned around and crouched down and before the prince could figure out what was happening Applejack bucked Blueblood with the force of five shotguns sending him flying out the door before she stood up dusted her hands off and walked back to the table like nothing happened.

"Wow remind me not to piss her off," Shining said.

"Should I send for the doctors?" Kibitz asked.

"Leave him for now I'd say he earned the punishment and I don't think the blow was fatal right Applejack?" Celestia asked.

"Nah I may hate him but I don't think I could bring myself to kill somepony like that you would need to work really to get under my skin for that," Applejack said.

"What I want to know is how did you get Ash to try ruling the country, I've been trying to get him to agree for a while now," Luna asked.

"I told him I'd have to let Blueblood be in charge of the day," causing a few to shudder.

"I don't want to even imagine that," Rage said.

"Where is dad now?" Pip asked.

"I believe he's somewhere in the castle archives looking up ancient symbols for the one on his back," Comet said.

"What are you talking about we all what his mark means," Rage said.

"No not that old branding mark that one's gone," Gilda said.

"Can you explain," Twilight asked.

"Well when Rarity was taking some measurements of Ash for a new set of clothes he removed his top and all of his scars were just gone. It’s as if they never existed along with the branding mark it also disappeared and…Well…Was replaced with a different mark," Spitfire said.

“That’s weird I didn’t notice any changes on Ash before we left. Even after Faust healed his wounds there was a lot of scaring from the damage,” Rage said

"Curious I think I'll go see him myself," Luna said before she left and the others began to tell the royals about their day in person.

Luna walked down the hallways and entered the archives which was dark save for only two light sources. The moonlight shining in through the ceiling windows and a gentle orange glow coming from in between the shelves. Luna followed the light and found a desk lit by a single candle, and asleep at the desk was Ash his head resting on an open book and snoring gently. Luna couldn't help but smile and brush some hair out of his face revealing his scarless right eye. She then noticed a piece of parchment next to the book with an interesting sketch on it that showed a circle a wing of feathers and a skeletal wing and a cross in the centre along with a strange scribble behind it. Luna took the drawing before she summoned a blanket and placed it over Ash and kissed him on the cheek and then blew out the candle before she left.

Ash P.O.V

I woke up to the sound of my IPod beeping and sat up to look at my surroundings I recognized the room as the Canterlot archives and immediately remembered why I was here. I then discovered a blanket over me and smiled before I went to check the alarm on my IPod and discovered something that ruined my mood.

"Damn it," I said as I looked at the words spelling Week of Solitude.

It was the week that seemed to haunt this part of my life about losing my wolf family, my arm, my innocence and my friend. I honestly didn't want to seal myself away in a room for a week and I didn't have the heart to step outside and enjoy the week. I sat in silence thinking of what to do till I came to a decision. I summoned a piece of parchment and a pen and began to write on it.

Hey Guys

I'm sure you're all wondering where I am at this time and this letter is to let you know I'm ok but today makes the beginning of the day I go into solitude. I know all of you want to help me get through this but please understand this is something that is impossibly hard to let go of but I am trying. I have decided to take a small trip back to earth to finally say goodbye to Alex. For those of you who know can you please explain it to the ones who don't. I appreciate everything you've all done to try and help me through life lately but I need to do this. I don't know how long I will be till I come back but know it will be within the week I'm sure you guys can bare me being away for that long right anyway see you later.

Yours Sincerely

Ash Blade

P.S. Don't follow me I need to do this on my own.

I rolled up the parchment before I tied a ribbon onto it and sealed it before I left and placed it on the dining table for everyone to see. I then asked a guard if my family was in the castle which he gave me a nod and told me where to find them. I found out all three were in different rooms and one by one I entered then and gave the three a kiss goodbye leaving Midnight last. I looked down into the crib and saw Midnight was peacefully asleep and for the first time I saw his wings. They were similar to mine but the feathers had his mother’s coat colour.

"I'll be back soon my little star," I said as I gave him a kiss and left.

I teleported into Twilight's library and walked over to the book that opens the way back to my world and placed it above the machine and activated it. The portal worked like a charm but before I stepped through I made my wings disappear just in case there were some bypasses and I poked my head through and saw no one around before I stepped the rest of the way through. I breathed in the air I walked around and noticed the statue had been repaired.

"Ash?"

I turned around and I saw Sunset Shimmer looking at me with a smile.

"Hey Sunset," I said as I walked over to her only for her to hug me.

"It's so good to see you Ash," Sunset said.

"Likewise," I said as I hugged her back.

"So what are you doing here?" Sunset asked as she let go of me.

"I'm actually here to say goodbye to someone," I said in a sad tone.

"Oh I'm sorry but it can't be Akachi's family they're all still alive," Sunset said.

"No, no, no this goodbye is an overdue one to Alex," I said.

"Oh I see but if I may ask why come now?" Sunset asked.

"This is the same week he died and normally on this week I shut myself away in solitude and refuse to come out till the week is over," I said.

"That's depressing," Sunset said.

"This week has been depressing for me for so many reasons," I said.

"I see but I wish you well when you see him Ash,” Sunset said.

“Thanks Sunset heaven knows I’ll need it,” I said.

“I gotta go but I'll try to talk to you later oh and I'll let the others know your here," Sunset said.

"Thanks take care," I said as I walked off in the direction of Rosa and Jabir's place.

The walk was calm and quiet and before I knew it I arrived at the house I walked up to the door and knocked on the door and waited a few seconds later I was greeted by Rosa.

"Ash!" Rosa exclaimed in surprise.

"Hey Rosa," I said as I embraced her in a hug which she returned before she invited me inside.

"Jabir Ash is here," Rosa said.

Seconds later I saw Jabir appear at the top of the stairs and he made his way down quickly and wrapped me in a bear hug.

"Ash my friend how has life been for you?" Jabir asked.

"Stressful," I replied before Jabir set me down.

"Well you don't need to be stressed here speaking of which what brings you here?" Rosa asked.

"I uh...Well I came to say goodbye to Alex," I said causing the pair to look at each other than to me.

"I know it's been a long time but I need to get it off my chest," I said.

"No explanations are needed Ash in fact we were going to his grave today as well along with Eli and Rebecca and we would love to have you along," Jabir said.

"Thank you both," I said.

Suddenly there was a knock at the door and Rosa opens it to reveal the two who were surprised to see me we exchanged greetings with each other and told the two about me joining them today before we sat down in the living room.

"So Ash how has everything been going with you?" Eli asked.

"Well I have both good news, weird news, bad news, amazing news, and angry news," I said.

"Start with the first one," Rebecca said.

"Alright well Faust has been adjusting well to Equestria after the Friendship Games and I had to fight a Nuckelavee to free her," I said causing Eli to stare at me in shock.

"A Nuckelavee you must be crazy strong to take on one of those," Eli said.

"Yeah and guess what that song we used to sing about it was stuck in my head the entire fight," I said causing Eli to laugh.

"Well it's great to hear Faust is doing well and back on the throne what else," Rosa asked.

"Oh someone unleashed the bloody zombie apocalypse on us and I got bit by one and before I could turn Twilight created the cure and saved my ass along with another thousand lives," I said causing all mouths to drop at this.

"I'm going to need a drink if I'm going to hear all this," Jabir said as he got up and went to the kitchen.

I told everyone about what happened from when I last saw them involving my encounter with Heartless, Snowdrop's return my memories along with both Midnight's birth and the incident with the Radiant Dawn.

"Wow life over there must be a roller-coaster for you," Rebecca said.

"I can't imagine what it must have been like for you to have your family stolen from you just when you receive a new member," Rosa said.

"All I can say is those Radiant Dawn bastards were lucky I wasn't around I would gladly have beaten their heads in," Jabir said.

"Same here," Eli agreed.

"Thank you both hey if I'm ever in a jam like that again I'll give you a call," I said.

"You'd better," Jabir said with a smile.

"Ash I have to ask is there something different about you?" Rosa asked.

"Yeah I don't know what it is but it just feels that way," Eli said.

"Well yeah actually as you can see the scars on my eye are gone and not only that the other ones I got from those four years are gone as well," I said as I removed my top and showed them my chest.

"Well I'll be…it's like some kind of miracle scar remover," Rebecca said.

"Not only that," I said as I stood up and showed them my new mark.

"Damn you lucky sod," Eli said.

"I'm glad you no longer have that mark Ash it's truly a blessing for you," Rosa said.

I looked at the others and saw them look at their back in sadness and felt guilty I then went into thought before an idea came to me.

"All of you have your backs face me and show me your marks," I said.

"Huh?" they all asked me in sync.

"Trust me," I said.

The four just shrugged at each other before they showed me their marks while I closed my eyes and took several deep breaths thinking about the white fire I summoned in the Radiant Dawn's fortress that healed my friends. When I opened my eyes I saw a white flame covering the palm of my hand I then gently placed my hand on each of their marks and watched at the flames burned them away. I then stopped the fire before I let out an exhausted sigh and almost collapsed.

"Hey Ash are you alright," Jabir asked.

"Yeah just that spell took a lot out of me," I said.

"Are you done yet Ash?" Rebecca asked.

"Yeah you can look now," I said.

My friends looked at each other's backs and gasped at the lack of their branding marks.

"It-It's gone," Jabir said.

"I-I can't believe it," Eli said.

"Ash this is truly a blessing you must be an angel thank you," Rosa said as she stood up and hugged me.

"It was my pleasure Rosa I'm just glad I could help," I said as I hugged her back.

"As grateful as I am Ash and you know I hate to spoil the mood, but we should get over to the cemetery," Rebecca said.

"Yeah you're right...c'mon we'd better go," I said as I released Rosa.

The trip to the cemetery was silent but peaceful my four friends led me through the tombstones till we arrived at a tombstone that sat on a hill under a simple tree that was straight and thick enough to stand on its own. I looked at the tombstone and continued to stare at it in silence while the others paid their respects to our fallen friend. When it came my turn I took the dog tags that he left with me out of the secret compartment in my arm and held them in my right hand before I walked in front of the grave. I stared at the item I watched over when I was first given them and stared at them whenever this week rolled around before I looked at the grave. I began to hear music come from somewhere in the cemetery but I didn't mind it and revealed my wings not caring if anyone looked.

"Hey Alex I know it's been a long time since we've last seen each other and for that I'm sorry I'm sorry I didn't even come to say goodbye I won't even make an excuse like I was still trying to accept the fact that you were dead because there is no excuse. I should have been here to say goodbye heh if you were here with me now you'd probably be saying that I'm here now and get over it and say what's needed to be said. Well I guess the time has come to say goodbye and I’ll start with this, goodbye my friend who was by my side through thick and thin, goodbye my friend who was my light in darkness, goodbye my friend who was more than a friend to me but a brother, goodbye my friend the one who gave his life for mine, and I hope you found peace sacrificing yourself for mine. I have wanted to say those words for so long now they have been burned into my head and during my time on this planet I could never understand why you saved me. But I guess I know now you saw something in me that could lead to many great things, things that could help make worlds a better place. Now I protect a planet full of ponies that walk on two legs instead of four some are known as unicorns and there are also Pegasi along with unicorns that are normally known as alicorns and I've fallen in love with an alicorn who controls the moon. I have two sons of my own now and plenty of friends who I'm determined to protect. The world has really gotten crazy you'd probably be laughing at what I'm saying thinking I'm crazy but I think my wings are enough proof for you...Hey Alex I haven't forgotten our promise I'm still keeping it and I'm doing good. I-I just wish you were here to see how far I've come you have no idea how bad I miss your voice," I said as tears spilled from my eyes and the others wrapped me in a tight embrace and once I stopped crying I nodded my thanks to the others before I looked back at the grave. “I hope I've done you proud Alex in what I'm doing I hope you’re watching over me as I help Equestria though it's times of need. But, now is the time for me to go my friend and the next time I'll see you I'll have more stories to tell," I said as I stepped away from the tombstone and made my wings vanish we all looked at the grave in silence for a minute before we all left.

"Hey Ash you feeling alright?" Rebecca asked.

"Yeah thanks for the hug as well I needed it," I said.

"No problem Ash I'm just glad we-," Jabir started before he stopped and looked at something across the road.

"Jabir are you alright?" I asked.

"Hm...Oh...Yeah just fine listen I just have something I need to take care of so I'll see you all back at the house," Jabir said before he ran off.

"Well that was weird," Eli said.

"Yeah but this is Jabir so I wouldn't worry about it," I said.

We continued our walk till we arrived at the house and we saw a police car parked outside with an officer leaning against the driver door.

"Were you expecting police today Rosa?" I asked.

"No," Rosa said.

The officer then noticed us and pushed off his car before he walked over to us and as he walked closer I began to recognize his face.

"Allen," Rosa said as she went over and hugged the officer.

"Hello Rosa it's good to see you," the officer called Allen said as he hugged back.

"I'm sorry to interrupt but you look familiar have we met?" I asked.

The officer then looked me over and smiled.

"Yes actually I first met you when I came to break you out," Allen said.

I studied his face a little more before it came flooding back he was the officer that comforted me after Alex's death.

"Oh yeah now I remember long time no see," I said as I held a hand out in a handshake which he accepted.

"Indeed gotta say you look great," Allen said.

"Thanks by the way my name is Ash Blade," I said.

"I see name's Allen," Allen said.

"Allen has been keeping up to date with Johnathan Viper's whereabouts," Rosa said.

"Really?" I asked.

"Yes and I'm sorry to say but the bastard is still floating in International Waters east of here on his private yacht," Allen said.

"International Waters you mean those lawless parts of the ocean?" I asked.

"Correct so you see why we can't interfere," Allen said.

"I can see why you can't interfere but…I don't see why I can't," I said.

"Ash what are you getting at?" Rosa asked.

"It's time this bastard paid for what he's done and don't tell me to stop cause I won't listen all I need is the ships name," I said turning back to Allen.

"The Black Mamba but I don't know how you're going to get there the guy changes location every once in a while you'd probably need wings to reach him now," Allen said.

"Got it covered," I said as I revealed my wings causing Allen to reel back in shock.

"Ash-," Eli started but I didn't hear him finish because flew into the air and shot off for the International Waters.

The sea was quite vast even at my vantage point my eyes scanned the sea for the Black Mamba till I used a seeker spell and quickly found the boat. I then flew in the direction I saw the boat and soon found it surrounded by at least six ships.

"So that's The Black Mamba huh I guess Mr Viper is a fan of poisonous snakes...Fitting for a slaver it's a shame that such a beautiful ship is in his hands," I said before I flew closer.

I saw a single guard wearing military clothing and a balaclava on the helicopter deck I made sure no one was looking before I dropped on him and drove my hidden blade into his neck and summoned my assassin robes and mask before I then tossed the body overboard. I walked over to the helicopter and pulled out its joystick cutting off escape for Viper and tossed it into the ocean before I made my way around to the third floor of the ship being careful to avoid any guards. I then found a pair of grand doors that had gold snakes for doorhandles on them. I cracked open the door and peered inside and saw no one in it so I opened the door the rest of the way and walked inside. I closed the door behind me and looked at the hallway I was in to see two rows of glass containers each one having a different type of snake inside.

"Man Twilight would never be able to get past this," I said as I walked past the serpents and to the door down the hallway to another door. I walked inside and I was met with loud music and blaring light's. I looked around and found some sort of club party going on except women were half naked and serving food and drinks. Some were even on leashes and there were also men also half naked acting as furniture for others. "So it's a slavers party," I said with disgust before I walked through the crowd making sure not to draw any attention to myself till I located Jonathan Viper. It made it easy to see the bastard cause he was on a platform slightly higher than anyone else in the room and he was surrounded by girls all of them who appeared to be drugged. I made my way over to the way onto the platform only to be blocked by a guard who wasn't wearing a balaclava and had a familiar face.

"Sorry sir this area is off limits," the guard said.

"Do I know you?" I asked.

"I'm sorry?" the guard asked.

"That's right I met you at that the junkyard you were the one who gave me the mark on my back," I said causing the guard's eyes to widen before I saw him slowly reach for a weapon. But, I held my hidden blade at his throat causing him to freeze at the sight of my weapon. "Now, now there's no need for that besides I'm not here to exact my vengeance on you. So unless you want to continue to breathe by the end of the day you'll leave your weapon's here and get off the boat and head back to shore. And do not breathe a word of my presence to anyone on your way out I'll make myself known shortly not a bad deal isn't it."

The guard nodded before he unclasped his utility belt and stepped to the side. I then lowered my blade and I watched him go till he was out of the room before I turned to face Johnathan. I walked over to the piece of trash keeping my face hidden under my hood and stood in front of him.

"What's this now I thought I told that lout I was not to be disturbed," Johnathan said.

"Apologises Mr Viper for the interruption but I needed to ask you some questions," I said.

"Well then what is it and make it quick," Johnathan said.

"Tell me do you feel safe out here on your boat?" I asked.

"But of course if you hadn't of noticed we're in international waters the law can't touch us," Johnathan said.

"I see but what about the one who took your arm he must have been fierce," I said.

"Fierce would be a word for it. He was nothing more than a boy when he did this but he's probably dead or in a cell right now just as he deserves," Johnathan said.

"Uh huh so you think there's no chance that he can make it out here correct?" I asked.

"Yes now what's with all the questions about that runt anyway?" Johnathan asked.

"Well I'm here to tell you that the chances have changed," I said.

"What are you talking about…who are you?" Johnathan asked as he started to back away slowly out of fear.

"Come now surely you can't forget the one who tossed a saw blade at you that managed to hack your arm off," I said as I leaned closer to Johnathan.

"My god...It's you," Johnathan gasped.

"The ghost of Christmas past," I said with a smile hidden behind my mask.

"Oh god someone help!" Johnathan screamed as he pushed the women aside and went for the golden gun that killed Alex which was a revolver much like mine.

However I didn't let Johnathan get very far before I grabbed him around his throat and threw him off the platform. I grabbed Johnathan's gun just as the music to come to a screeching halt causing all eyes to turn my way. I jumped off the platform and walked into the centre of the room while Johnathan looked at me in fear.

"To all slavers who are basking in the joy of your fellow humans flesh I am here to give you all a message. As of today you're days of selling and owning slaves is officially over. Now I don't know if Mr Viper here has mentioned how he lost his arm but I will be happy to tell you. 5 years ago I was the one who tore the saw blade out of an arena wall and tossed it at him severing his arm from the rest of him leaving him with a stump. Yes I was once a slave to this pathetic waste of skin but no longer and I have come back to settle the score with him. As for the rest of you slavers who dare call yourselves human beings you are to get off this ship and onto your own. But, leave the poor souls you brought with you and put every slave you have on your ships onto this one. If I so much as see a slaver try to smuggle a slave out of this room or if I find out there is still one slave on your ships then I will kill you all regardless." I said in a dark tone.

The room was silent everyone staring at me in complete and utter silence.

"Someone kill him!" Johnathan shouted.

Suddenly I saw all the guards aim their guns at me but I just smiled a few seconds later bullets rang across the room. But, I raised my hand and all the bullets stopped in a circle around me causing every single one of the bullets to stop in mid-air gaining shocked looks from everyone.

"My turn," I whispered before I flicked my hand and the bullets were sent flying back at the guards killing them and leaving multiple bullet holes in the walls. "I will not ask again," I said as I looked at Johnathan and he was gone I suddenly heard a door slam closed and sighed. "Never make it easy do they," I said before I summoned my shadow and told him what to do. "My friend here is going to supervise you all and make sure you carry out my request oh and be warned he doesn't have my patience."

I teleported out of the room and onto the deck that looked over the helicopter deck. I soon saw Johnathan running towards it I then jumped on to the deck on the side of the pool without a sound. I saw Johnathan open the door of the helicopter but slammed it shut when he saw the missing joystick and gasped when he saw me.

"No matter where you run you can't hide from me Johnathan," I said as I removed my mask and hood.

"You stay away you hear," Johnathan said as he tried to inch away slowly but I pulled out his gun and shot it at the deck just before his foot could move to that spot. "Alright maybe we can come to some sort of deal how about money, women you seem like the type of guy who li-gakk," I used my magic to grab him around his throat and threw him into the railing interrupting his little offer.

"Can you bring my friend back from the dead then if so I'll just break one of your legs and toss your ass in a cell," I said as I spread my wings for intimidation.

"Fuck you, you freak I don't know what the hell you are but I have contacts everywhere they'll find your family and any male relatives and elders will be dead your females will be slaves to suck cocks for the rest of their lives," Johnathan said as I kneeled down next to them.

"Well I wish them the best of luck then it will even make things easier for me to find them but you know something Johnathan you're so called friends will spread what they saw here today and they will be called crazy for even saying such things. But, if their smart they'll say nothing either way Viper...you lost," I said before I stood up and aimed his gun at his head causing him to start whimpering pathetically.

"Please...don't do this...grant me mercy," Johnathan pleaded.

"Ask he devil that when you see him," I said as I pulled back the hammer on the gun. "Also give my regards to the reaper."

BANG!

The bullet went right in the centre of Johnathan's forehead and the body slumped to the floor as I lowered the gun. I tucked the gun away in my belt and put my mask and hood back on before I walked away. Soon I felt a swirl of emotions take over me causing me to lean against a wall for support before I regained my bearings and walked to the back of the ship. I saw my shadow eyeing the slaver goons one guard was hesitant to let go of a woman but my shadow growled at him causing him to let her go and she ran over to the others.

"Down buddy he’s not worth becoming a chew toy," I said causing my shadow to reconnect to my feet once again. "I trust each and every slave on your ships have been placed on this one?"

"Y-Yes," one of the slaver's goons said in fear at the sight of me.

"Good now remember if I find out you kept even one person on your ship or go back into the business of dealing with human cargo. I will come after all of you and send you all to a hellish grave am I clear?" I asked earning nods from the goons before they got off the boat and removed the gangplank. I then walked back inside and saw a large number of people just staring at me. I paid them no mind as I gathered the dead guards and placed them in a corner and walked over to a closet and found actual tables and chairs and some blankets. I then used my magic to set them all out for the people to sit down but I saw them only looking at me in fear. "Relax you lot I don't bite."

My words didn't seem to help anyone so I just rolled my eyes and grabbed the dead guards in my magic and teleported onto the main deck and placed them beside Johnathan's body. I then teleported back into the room where the others were and saw them wrap themselves in some blankets and sit on the chairs or on the floor. Some of them let out surprised yelps when I appeared but I walked past them and onto the platform Johnathan was sitting on and saw the women from before who were still drugged. I was a little worried about what would happen if I didn't do something but my thoughts were soon interrupted when I heard footsteps come up behind me.

"Uh excuse me."

I stood up and turned around to see a young man standing behind me.

"Yes?" I asked.

"Aren't you going to give us any orders?" the man asked.

I realised the error of this situation was that they didn't know what was happening.

"No in fact you don't need to take orders from anyone again you're free now," I said causing the man to stare at me with a blank expression.

"We're free...do you really mean it?" the man asked with tears welling up in his eyes while I just gave a smile and nodded causing him to collapse on his knees and cry. "After all this time...My prayers have been answered thank you."

The man kneeled down and was about to kiss my feet but I stopped him and helped him stand up.

"There's no need for that...But, if you want to thank me we need to find a way to help these women out," I said.

"I was a doctor so I'll see what I can do," the man said.

"Appreciated," I said before I walked down the ramp leaving the doctor to the women.

"Hey you."

I looked at the direction of the voice and saw another man who spoke.

"Yeah what can I help you with?" I asked.

"Just what the fuck are you? You've got wings growing out of your back part feathered and the other webbed so are you some kind of angel or are you a demon?" the man asked.

"Let's just go with winged human if that helps," I said.

"Alright then who are you and why are you helping us where are we going and what's in it for you?" the men asked.

"Alright first off it’s pointless to ask a masked man who he is. The second answer is because I know what it was like to be a slave. Third you guys can go where ever you want and lastly I came here for vengeance on Johnathan Viper for killing my friend and mentor," I said all of them silent at my words. "Now that I have everyone's attention I need to ask. Is there anyone here who knows how to navigate on the ocean and is there someone who knows how to steer this ship?”

"I can drive this," A man said raising his hand.

"I can navigate," a young woman said also raising her hand.

"Alright I need you both on the bridge and the closest land to us right now is west of here if we leave now we'll be there before 3:00pm," I said.

"Alright," the pair said before they ran off.

"And if there's anyone who is injured consult with the doctor or help him out to tend to those that need help and if you know someone who was with you on the ship but didn’t come aboard tell me otherwise do whatever," I said and immediately the former slaves dispersed. I walked around helping where I could before and came to the captain’s quarters aka Johnathan's room. I walked inside and the first thing I noticed was the Templar banners hanging on the walls. "Damn if I didn't hate the bastard before I sure hate him now."

I removed my hood and mask and looked at the desk and saw letters that had may the father of understanding guide us written on it confirming he was a part of the Templar order. Suddenly, I felt a presence behind me and quick as a flash I spun around and extended my hidden blade. But the presence was a hooded woman who also had her own hidden blade extending from her wrist and the assassins mark on a necklace causing me to retract my blade and calm down.

"I assume you're with the brotherhood and came to kill Viper correct?" I asked.

"Da (Yes) he's been on our list for some time and he has maps that show several assassin hideouts," the assassin said in a Russian accent.

"Well he won't be bothering you anymore he's dead if you want proof his body is on the helicopter deck," I said.

"Well as long as he is dead then that's all that matters but now it means I'll have to search this entire room for the maps," the assassin said.

"Not necessarily," I said.

"How so?" the assassin asked.

"Hang on," I said.

I closed my eyes and whispered a spell before I opened my eyes and saw the assassin was bright yellow and I could also see her skeleton and a cone of light with the point aimed at her eyes showing me where she was looking. I then looked around the room and saw a mechanism behind a bookcase. I ended the enchantment before I walked over to the bookcase and pulled a book out triggering the mechanism. The bookcase swung open to reveal a massive safe a few feet taller than me and twice as wide.

"Voila," I said.

"Impressive sharp mind and good looks not to mention mysterious Shaun would be most jealous," the assassin said.

"Who?” I asked.

"Oh no one just a friend of mine," the assassin said.

"I see," I said.

"Now to crack open the safe," the assassin said.

I just gripped the safe door with my right hand and ripped off the door.

"Or we cannot waste time and do it my way," I said before I walked inside and saw a mass amount of personal items and money.

I looked around for a map with assassin hideouts on it but I noticed the assassin was constantly staring at my wings.

"Are my wings distracting you?" I asked.

"Um...Da it's just I've never seen wings like yours before...they are beautiful," the assassin said.

"Flattered but here allow me to fix the problem," I said as I caused my wings to vanish.

"Oh you don't need to hide them," the assassin said.

"I understand but this so I can see where I'm going and not worry about crashing into stuff," I said.

"Understood," the assassin said.

I looked around the room once again before I spotted a world map with crosses and coordinates on it.

"Is this it?" I asked as I picked it up and shoed it to the assassin.

"Da this is it," the assassin said as she took the map and walked outside the vault.

I was about to do the same when I saw a small chest that was sitting under the map. I grabbed the chest and opened it to find an Apple of Eden. I grabbed the Apple and the chest before I walked out of the vault and saw the assassin I met had just burned the map.

"Look what I found," I said as I held out the Apple.

"*Gasp* A Piece of Eden," the assassin said.

"Here," I said before I placed the Apple back inside the chest and handed it to the assassin.

"You're giving it to me why?" the assassin asked.

"I've got three of these things to take care of I don't need another," I said as I placed a finger on the box.

"I see I have noticed this earlier but your robes they are of our brotherhood they are a little outdated and are you one of us?" the assassin asked.

"Well yes and no. Yes I am an assassin but none of the members of your assassin's council would know of me," I said.

"How is that possible the assassin council know of everyone in our creed," the assassin said.

"It's too long a story and you wouldn't believe me if I told you," I said.

"I see my name is Galina Voronina but please call me Galina," Galina said as she held her hand out to me.

"Name's Ash Blade but Ash is fine," I said.

"Well I can't go anywhere until we dock and by the way things are going outside we'll reach land soon," Galina said before she began to walk away.

"Oh Galina," I said as I pulled out a feather and turned it into a blade and handed it to her. "A keepsake to remember me by and if you turn it into a necklace it will become a deadly accessory to get you out of tight situations."

"A beautiful gift blagodaryu (thanks) Ash and dosvedanya (goodbye)," Galina said.

I gave Galina a smile before I put my mask and hood back on and walked out and closed the door behind me and took an alternate route then Galina. I walked into the hulls of the ship to look around as I explored I heard the sound of hooves on metal and I followed the sound to rectangular object covered by a brown cloth. I reached out and grabbed the cloth and pulled it down and saw a cage. But it was what was inside the cage that shocked me. It was white horse with a matching mane and a tail that looked like a lions with a tuff of white fur on the end and tuffs of white fur on her hooves and I could tell by the soft features of her face and beautiful blue eyes she was a mare. But the reason I’m shocked me was the horn on her forehead and at the base of her horn was a star pattern.

"Wow how did you get in here?" I asked as I removed my mask and hood.

"Typical of the mortals to ask me how I got in here when they know I can't answer them," the unicorn said in a gentle soft voice that was also bitter in tone.

"I was actually asking you sincerely there's no reason to be insulting," I said as I folded my arms over my chest. The unicorn seemed shocked at my response and looked at me with widened eyes.

"Wait can-can you understand me?" the unicorn asked.

"Well you are a unicorn are you not so I assumed you could talk," I said.

"So there are some who still believe in us?" the unicorn asked.

"Well yeah I think so there are little kids who believe in you but just not many adults," I said.

"So why exactly are you different?" the unicorn asked.

"I've seen a lot of things in my life like castles sitting on the sides of a mountain, I've even fought demons and lived to tell the tale, I've even seen empires made completely out of crystal so a unicorn isn't that all surprising for me no offence. Especially when I live among other unicorns including Pegasi, Earth Ponies, Draconequuses and alicorns," I said.

"Other unicorns like me perhaps and did you say you know an alicorn and a Draconequus I thought both were extinct," The unicorn said.

"Well these seven alicorns are certainly not extinct nor are the two Draconequuses I know and as for the unicorns. They don't look exactly like you these guys stand on two hooves and have hands like a human," I said.

"So they did escape knowing that is quite a relief," the unicorn said.

"Escape what do you mean?" I asked.

"It's not something I wish to remember nor would it make for good conversation," the unicorn said.

"I understand I even had my own time in my life I didn't want to share," I said.

The two of us sat in an uncomfortable silence for a long time till I realized the unicorn was still trapped inside the cage.

"Oh you poor mare forgive me I should have opened the cage for you sooner," I said as I began to make my way towards the lock.

"Mare, mare I am a unicorn and you shall address me as such mare in deed," the unicorn said in an insulted tone.

"Oh sorry I meant no offence it's what I normally say to a female unicorn, Pegasus, earth pony or alicorn when I don't know their name. But, I'll stick with unicorn," I said as I raised my hands in a defensive manner while backing off.

"I see but as you can see I'm not like the others," the unicorn said.

"Understood calling you a mare is insulting got it," I said as I looked at the lock on the door. "You know you should meet my friend Rarity I think you too would totally hit it off."

"Hit what off?" the unicorn asked.

"Uh what I meant was you'd both get along rather well," I said as I raised my left fist and brought it down on the lock bending it.

"I see and who is this Rarity?" the unicorn asked.

"She's a unicorn she has a marshmallow white coat and indigo mane and tail with curls in them. She's a fashionista and makes some of the best designs you'd ever find in Equestria," I said as I brought my hand down on the lock once again breaking it allowing me to remove the lock from the door and open the cage. "There we go,"

"You're certainly strong did you even feel that?" the unicorn asked after she stepped out of the cage.

"This arm is made of metal but thanks to the life spell my marefriend placed on it. I can feel with it but no I didn't feel any pain," I said as I pulled of the black fingerless glove that covered my left hand and rolled up the sleeve on my jacket revealing the metal limb underneath. The unicorn seemed curious about my arm and sniffed at it.

"You poor thing what happened?" the unicorn asked.

"I guess you can say I traded it for a life," I said.

"I see you must have been very brave that day," the unicorn said.

"Maybe but I think a bit of stupidity was added into it as well," I said.

"Don't take yourself lightly young one I can sense there's more to you then meets the eye," the unicorn said with a smile causing me to blush and rub the back of my head.

We entered another uncomfortable silence till I thought of something.

"Are you hungry? I can go to the kitchen and get some food," I said before I heard a small growl come from the unicorn’s stomach and her cheeks turned pink. "I'll take that as a yes but what exactly do you unicorns eat?"

"Whatever vegetables and fruit you can find please," the unicorn said.

"Alright stay here I'll be right back," I said before I put my mask and hood back on and left. I walked into the kitchen and found a bowl full of apples and after rummaging through the fridge I found some lettuce and carrots and brought them all back for the unicorn. She used a levitation to eat her food. "If you don't mind my asking but how did you come to be here?"

"It was generations ago I was wondering outside the borders of my home looking for someone important but I was captured by a man who demanded I grant him immortality. But, no unicorn can grant such a thing so he locked me away and each generation of his children demanded the same thing from me," the unicorn said.

"I see was the one who currently held you named Johnathan Viper?" I asked.

"That is his name why?" the unicorn said.

"Was his name he's dead and by my hand," I said.

"Why...Why did you kill him?" the unicorn asked emotionlessly.

"It's a part of my past that haunts me Johnathan Viper stole years from my life turning me into something for his entertainment and he killed my friend and mentor Alex," I said.

"I am sorry for your loss," the unicorn said.

"It's alright I also came here for another goal to free everyone that he was keeping as a slave and make sure it never happens again," I said.

"And how things are turning out with you letting me out of the cage and freeing me I'd say you succeeded," the unicorn said.

"Yeah I guess I did...uh...I'm sorry to ask but what do I call you?" I asked.

"Amalthea my name is Amalthea," the unicorn said.

"Amalthea lovely name my name is-," I started but was cut off by a PA in the room.

"Land ho land ho!"

"Looks like we're getting off this tub," I said.

"Tub I thought this was a ship," Amalthea said.

"It's an expression?" I said as I began to leave.

"Might I go with you?" Amalthea asked.

"I think it's best if you stay put for now after all if a unicorn or what the others see is a white mare aboard then there's sure to be a commotion," I said.

"I understand I will wait then," Amalthea said.

"Thank you Amalthea I'll be back before you know it," I said as I left.

I walked onto the bridge and summoned my telescope and looked through it and saw a harbour. And at the harbour I saw flashing red and blue lights and a large crowd of people.

"Looks like the police are here to capture Johnathan," I said.

"What do we do," the man driving the ship asked.

"Guide the ship in however I cannot be here," I said.

"But you saved us surly you must want some reward for your efforts and the world would see you as a hero," the woman navigating said.

"Yet I killed plenty to save you I took judgement into my hands they won't see me as a hero and if they discover my wings and abilities I'll be treated as a lab experiment and probably study to make more of me. And that by far is the last thing the world needs soldiers that have the same abilities as mine," I said.

"Your right but what do we do about the bodies they'll think we did it," the man said.

"Then just tell them a man in a mask and hood did it and saved you all," I said.

"But what about how you killed those guards?" the man asked.

"If you all tell the same thing then it's unlikely they'll put you in an asylum or anything they'll think of it as some unexplainable trick," I said.

"Ok but anyway you'd better get ready to go were about to have company," the woman said as she pointed at some boats coming towards us.

I gave a nod before I ran off the bridge and used my parkour skills to get to the main deck and I ran down to the hull to reach Amalthea.

"Amalthea we need to leave now we're going to have company," I said.

"Climb on my back I'll get us out of here," Amalthea said.

"Are you sure?" I asked.

"Hurry!" Amalthea shouted.

I ran over to Amalthea and climbed on her back as requested and when I looked at her mane I felt a memory fill my vision. It was of a crimson background and white hair waving in the wind along with a black object. Before I knew it I heard Amalthea calling for me in the present.

"Are you alright?" Amalthea asked in a worried tone.

"Yeah I'm fine now how do we get out?" I asked.

"Like this," Amalthea said before her horn began to glow blue.

Before I knew what was happening both Amalthea and I fell into the ocean with a splash we both surfaced and we saw the police boats escorting The Black Mamba to the docks. I then gestured for Amalthea to follow me and we swam to the beach hidden from the view of the docks. Once we arrived I ran over to some bushes that hid me from view and watched as the former slaves disembark The Black Mamba. I saw reporters were also down there trying to get a story I also saw several officers talking to the freed people when suddenly I felt a dry and cooling sensation over my body. I turned to see Amalthea was using her magic to rid me of any water leaving me perfectly dry.

"Uh thanks," I said.

"No thank you...for freeing me," Amalthea said.

"Heh happy to help," I said rubbing the back of my head.

"Will they be okay?" Amalthea asked looking at the docks.

"Who knows some of them were badly traumatized others were in a haze but hopefully they'll get some help," I said.

"And what of you?" Amalthea asked.

"I think I'll return to Equestria I've done what I've needed to do and more I bet Faust is gonna flip when she hears there are still unicorns living on earth," I said.

"Did you say Faust?" Amalthea asked in shock.

"Yeah she's one of the seven alicorns I mentioned why do you know her?" I asked.

"Yes I do it's been a long time since I saw her," Amalthea said.

"Well do you want to see her again?" I asked.

Amalthea looked off into the distance for a moment before she looked back to me.

"Yes I'd love to see her again," Amalthea said.

"Alright then we've got a fairly long trip ahead of us so we'd better get going," I said as I began to walk off but I was levitated onto Amalthea's back by her magic.

"You navigate I'll get us there," Amalthea said as she looked back at me.

"Are you sure I can walk," I said.

"It's no bother," Amalthea said.

"Well alright," I said before Amalthea walked out from behind the bushes and in plain sight of everyone on the docks but Amalthea just kept walking as if they weren't there.

"FREZZE!"

I looked to see it was an officer aiming a gun at us and his shout drew the attention of everyone on the docks. I heard a voice call out 'that's him' before the reporters flashed their cameras at us spooking Amalthea causing her to rear up. The officer then shot at me but the bullet narrowly missed us both.

"Run!" I shouted causing Amalthea to run off.

I held onto her mane tightly as Amalthea ran and boy was she fast Amalthea never stopped running. But it wasn't long before sirens from the police cars coming after us but Amalthea still ran. A police car soon appeared and was getting close.

This is the police pull over to the side of the road or we will open fire!"

"What should we do?" Amalthea asked.

"Get alongside them," I said.

Amalthea did as instructed and I summoned my scythes and connected the hilts and jabbed the spear blade into a tyre causing the car to come to a screeching halt while Amalthea ran on. I then put away my scythes and breathed a sigh of relief.

"Where did that come from?" Amalthea asked.

"Uh I guess now is a bad time to tell you I can use magic," I said.

"You can...as in real magic?" Amalthea asked.

"Well yeah living in Equestria can do some pretty incredible stuff," I said.

"Why didn't you tell me this?" Amalthea asked.

"It wasn't important at the time," I said.

"Just what more is there about you?" Amalthea asked.

"Plenty but it's a long story," I said.

"Well we have a fair journey ahead," Amalthea said.

"I suppose I could but I'll spare you the details," I said.

As Amalthea carried us I told her of my life and as she listened her gallop became a walk and I gave her directions on where we needed to go and when we arrived at town it was dark and I told her the reason I came aboard The Black Mamba.

"That is quite a story you should write a book about it," Amalthea said as she walked down the empty streets.

"Thanks but story writing isn’t my thing," I said.

"So where do we go now?" Amalthea asked.

"Uh Amalthea I need to make a quick stop first to say goodbye to some friends who escaped slavery alongside me," I said.

"I understand where they are?" Amalthea asked.

I told Amalthea the directions to the house and when we arrived I saw Allen’s car was still here. I assured Amalthea that it was alright before I dismounted and rubbed my backside from riding bareback on Amalthea. But, I didn't complain to her but instead kept my mouth shut I then walked over to the door and knocked on it and was met Sunset Shimmer.

"Ash!" Sunset screamed as she wrapped her arms around me.

"Whoa take it easy kiddo," I said.

"Ash thank goodness you’re safe," Rosa said as she led me inside.

"Why what's wrong?" I asked.

I walked inside and saw all my former cell mates were here along with this world’s mane 6 and Allen and Jabir who was rewinding something on the TV. When he pressed play it showed a woman news reporter.

"In other news a slave ship known as The Black Mamba which was once owned by Johnathan Viper had exited international waters and docked here today. Police were already on the scene along with several civilians. But, when the authorities went aboard they discovered Johnathan Viper's body along with several dead guards in his service along with a few dozen slaves who claimed to have been freed by a mysterious masked hero. This is the response from one of the captives who was on-board when this began. Children in the audience are advised to leave the room," the reporter said before it switched to a man in his prime.

"Well these bastards were sitting on all the men like furniture we were even used as tables and we weren't allowed to move a muscle or they'd whip us. The women weren't any better they were forced to serve food drinks or were kept on leashes like pets and were being raped left and right. But then this guy he just appears out of nowhere wearing grey robes and a hood with a mask on his face with wings growing out of his back. He grabs Viper and tosses him into the centre of the room as if he was a rag doll and demands that all the slaves on the neighbouring ships be placed on the one we arrived on or he would kill them all. Viper then shouts an order to kill the guy and the guards shoot at him but the amazing thing is all the bullets just stop in mid-air around him and he just flicks his hand and the bullets are sent flying back to where they came from killing the guards. Johnathan Viper then ran off and this guy just brings his shadow to life to make sure the rest of the slavers do as he said and a few minutes later we hear a bang go off and later we see this guy walk in. Suddenly he's just making objects float around like magic and we're all scared out of our bloody minds. But after we calm down and saw this guy wasn't a threat he then asks us if there was something he could help us with and he did it without complaint. It was like heaven had sent down an angel to save us when we needed it," The man said before it went back to the woman.

"All the captives on the ship give similar responses however the masked hero didn't appear on the ship when the police searched the ship. Fortunately one of a photographers managed to get a shot at the hero before an officer open fired at him," the woman said as a picture appeared of me on Amalthea while she was rearing backwards appeared but I couldn't see her horn. "The picture shows of the mysterious person on a rearing horse just before he fled the scene. Authorities gave chase but reported a flat tyre after the figured made a scythe appear out of thin air and punctured the tyre. So the questions on everyone's minds are. Who is he? Why did this man come to the aid of these people? What is he? Where is he? How did he do the things he can do and is he a friend or foe?" The woman said before the TV turned off.

"Well that was something," I said.

"Dude these guys know who you are now they're going to discover Equestria," Rainbow said.

"Whoa calm down there's no solid evidence of me having wings as for the bullet thing they'll most likely write it off as unexplainable and third I'm going home tonight and closing the portal for a time till the heat dies down so chill everything will be fine as long as a certain officer keeps quiet," I said looking at Allen.

"Save your energy Ash I won't tell even if I should charge you for murder also the office wouldn't believe me anyway," Allen said.

"Thank you," I said.

"Ash are you okay?" Rosa asked.

"I've felt very little regret in my life Rosa but I need to ask was killing Viper the right thing to do because one part of me was saying kill him while the other said toss him into a cell," I said.

"Ash what you did was in my opinion the right thing to do this way he can't hurt anyone ever again," Rosa said as she placed her hands on my face forcing her to look at her.

"Thanks Rosa," I said as I hugged her.

"So what happens now?" Eli asked.

"Well it's time I head home and I'm bringing a friend with me," I said.

"Can I come too?"

I looked for the voice and saw Akachi running down the stairs to me before he gave me a hug around the waist.

"Akachi I thought I told you its bedtime," Rosa said.

"But then I would have missed uncle Ash," Akachi said.

"Rosa, Jabir if it's not too much trouble can he come with me for a bit in fact why don't you all come and meet everyone," I said surprising everyone.

"You mean come to Equestria oh Ash as much as we'd love too we can't Akachi has school tomorrow and-," Rosa started.

"Please Rosa just a few minutes to meet everyone including my new son and then you'll all be home before you know it," I said.

"Come now Rosa it's not every day an opportunity like this is just handed to someone," Jabir said.

"Yeah it sounds like quite an adventure," Rebecca said.

"I'm not needed till late tomorrow," Eli said.

"Well I'm off duty for the rest of the night so I guess I can come," Allen said.

"All of us except for me live on our own and mah family know I can take care of myself. Besides as long as it's short I'll be able to rise and shine the next day no sweat," Applejack said earning uh huhs from the other girls.

"Please mum can we go I want to see Equestria I'll be very good for the week I'll even do my homework without complaints," Akachi said.

"Well an offer to meet the child of an old friend and for my son to actually do his homework without a fuss…What mother could say no to that," Rosa said.

"Fantastic c'mon we'll go tell Amalthea the news," I said before I began to lead them all outside but I saw Sunset wasn't as enthusiastic. "Sunset I know you're a little nervous about coming back to Equestria. But you should know that when we got back the first time the first thing Celestia asked was about your condition. Which means she forgives you for what happened its all ancient history now."

"Thanks Ash I needed to hear that," Sunset said.

"Hey Ash I almost forgot I picked these up for you today," Jabir said as he handed me a plastic bag.

I took the bag and looked inside and saw the Fast and Furious collection from one to seven.

"No way you got me these...Why?" I asked.

"I remember when Alex first told you about those and how you said you wanted to watch them when you got out and I figured I'd get you a gift," Jabir said.

"Damn it dude I would have gotten you something if I knew," I said.

"Don't Ash just enjoy them," Jabir said.

"I intend too along with some friends of mine but we'd better go I think my friend has waited long enough," I said before I placed the movies in a pocket dimension and led everyone outside.

Once I was outside I stood next to the white unicorn causing all to gasp.

"Everyone this is Amalthea a unicorn and the one who brought me here," I said

"A real unicorn and before my very eyes," Allen said in disbelief.

"They can see my horn too?" Amalthea asked.

"Wait you can talk as well amazing," Twilight said.

"Darling you look simply divine," Rarity said.

"I'm all amazed that you all can see me," Amalthea said.

"Oh believe me we've seen some weird things but anyway I'm Sunset Shimmer I come from Equestria and was once a unicorn," Sunset said.

"Charmed are you all coming with us?" Amalthea asked.

"Yes now let's go I'm sure you’re all eager to meet everyone," I said before I led them to the school Wondercolt statue.

I walked through the portal and stepped to the side to allow everyone through but instead of walking through they were all thrown through.

"Oooo that must've hurt," I said.

"Uh well that's one way to travel," Jabir said.

"*Scream* What happened to us," Rebecca shrieked as she examined herself.

Rebecca and all my friends except Amalthea had been changed when coming through the portal. Sunset Shimmer had turned back into her pony form and the main 6 had all become exact copies as the others of this world the only difference was Twilight had her hair in a bun and wore glasses. I then looked at my friends and saw Jabir, Rosa and Akachi had been turned into a family of zebra. Rebeca was a unicorn with a mane and tail that reminded me of Roseluck's and a light blue coat. Eli was a dark green Pegasus with a ginger mane and tail and finally Allen was a light brown unicorn with a black mane

"Wow you guys look great you should consider keeping those looks," I said.

"Aw yeah Rainbow Dash has got her wings," Rainbow air pumped.

"Uh as unique this body is I'd like to get back into my body," Rosa said.

"And I kinda need some clothes."

I looked around for the voice and saw my world's Spike hiding behind the mirror with only his head showing and in his dragon form. I was about to ask why he was hiding behind the mirror like that for but then remembered what he said.

"Oh...right sorry big guy," I said as I summoned some of my clothes and handed them to Spike. "And as for the body thing Rosa I'm afraid there's nothing I can do so you'll need to put up with it but it could be worse."

"How?" Rosa asked.

"You could be on four hooves instead of two and not wearing anything at all," I said causing her to blush.

"So where are we now?" Spike asked as he appeared from behind the mirror with the clothes on.

"Oh right everyone welcome to the castle of friendship aka Twilight's place," I said.

"Wait I live here I mean the other me lives here?" Twilight asked.

"Along with the other Spike," Spike asked.

"Yep," I said.

"So where do we go to meet Faust?" Amalthea asked.

"Just up there," I said pointing out a window at Canterlot castle.

"Hang on is that a castle on the edge of a mountain?" Eli asked.

"Yep now everyone gather around I'll have us over there quickly," I said causing the others to follow my instructions.

"Okay now what?" Allen asked.

"Most of you are going to feel a little sick," I said before I teleported us to Canterlot.

"Uh you weren't kidding when you said we'd feel sick," Eli said.

"Don't worry just like me you'll get used to it," I said as I recovered my breath after teleporting so many people or ponies as the case may be.

"So this is Canterlot castle?" Applejack asked looking around.

"Yeah I'd give you all the grand tour of Ponyville and this place if we had time but we'll just have to settle on meeting royalty," I said.

"So which room should they be in at this time of night?" Rosa asked.

"If I had to guess probably tending to some late night business from the stuck up nobles which would be in the throne room," I said.

"And where is that darling?" Rarity asked causing me to gesture to the door we were outside of.

"Just let me go in before you guys or it will be a little overwhelming at first," I said.

"Alright," The group replied in union.

I walked over to the door and opened it so I could look inside and saw all my friends from Ponyville were here including most of the royals.

"Do you think he's ok I know this week can be tough for him," Twilight said.

"The letter said he was going to say goodbye and that he'll be back within the week," Luna said who was holding Midnight in her arms and Pip was standing by her side.

"Yeah I'm sorry I had to rush off like that," I said as I walked towards the group making my presence known and causing them all to smile at me.

"Oh your back," Rage said as he flew over to me and gave me a hi-five.

"C'mon like I'd ever leave forever," I said.

"Dad!" Pip yelled as he ran towards me.

"Hey big guy come here," I said as I crouched down and scooped him up in a hug.

"You were out for a while almost four months," Pip said.

"Yeah I needed a long nap but anyway I want to introduce you to some people I know," I said.

"Uh Ash don't you mean ponies?" Comet asked.

"No I mean people case these guys come from earth," I said as I looked at the door. "You can come in now,"

"Rainbow Dash is in the castle!" Rainbow shouted as the doors opened with a slam.

"Rainbow Dash that is very un-lady like," Rarity said.

"C'mon let's see how fun this place is," Pinkie Pie said as she bounced in.

"Um maybe we should go home," Fluttershy said as she peaked out from behind the door.

"It's alright sugarcube," Applejack said as she led Fluttershy inside.

"Wow nice digs," Spike said as he walked in.

However the group stopped in their tracks when they saw their doubles from here who were looking at them as if they'd been slapped.

"Oh for goodness sake these guys are from my world they're just alternate versions of you it's not like they'll bite," I said but I saw both Pinkie Pies chewing on each other’s tails. "I stand corrected.”

"You taste like cotton candy," one Pinkie Pie said.

"*gasp* You too," the other said before they hugged.

"Well they're getting along," I said before I turned to Rosa, Jabir, Akachi, Eli, Rebecca and Allen. "Hey you six come over there's some others I want you to meet."

The five walked over to me and I saw both groups of the mane 6 were beginning to talk and get along.

"Um Ash are those who I think they are?" Rage asked.

"Yeah just keep calm alright," I said before I turned to the five. "Everyone this is my brother Burning Rage and my first son Pipsqueak.

"Pipsqueak who came up wi-," Eli was interrupted when Rebeca placed a hand over his muzzle.

"Thank you Rebeca," I said.

"Always happy to shut Eli up," Rebecca said causing Eli to let out a muffled complaint and send a glare at Rebecca.

"Ash I didn't know you had a brother," Rosa said.

"It's a long story really," Rage said.

"Well either way it's nice to finally meet you and this handsome devil," Rosa said looking at Pip who was blushing causing Rosa to coo at him.

"Pip I'd like you to meet Rosa think of her as you're aunt from my side of the family and her son and your cousin Akachi," I said as I set him on the floor.

"Nice to meet you Akachi I'm Pipsqueak but you can call me Pip," Pip said as he held his hand out for a handshake.

"It's nice to meet you too Pip," Akachi said.

"Why don't you too explore the room and go introduce Akachi to your aunts," I suggested.

"Alright dad," Pip said before the two ran off.

"Such manners how on earth did you teach him that?" Rosa asked.

"Simple I didn’t teach him on earth," I said causing us to chuckle but my laughter was cut off when something hit me in the back of the head.

"Ow,' I said before I turned around to see Celestia. ”What was that for?"

"Ash you brought to many people here you could threaten to upset the balance," Celestia said.

"Would you chill Celestia if Sunset has been living on earth for who knows how long and with Twilight coming and going as she pleases I think the universe will hold together for a few minutes," I said.

"Even so I don't like how you brought those girls here and these people its better we keep our world secret," Celestia said.

"Relax already would ya those girls have their own secret to hide and these are the people I met when I was a slave so you can trust them," I said.

This seemed to surprise Celestia as she looked at the six people who were staring at us.

"I must apologise I had no idea you were the ones Ash met in that dreadful place," Celestia said.

"Think nothing of it," Allen said.

"Yeah we should have expected something like this the moment Ash invited us,” Rebecca said

"Uh Celestia I presume," Jabir said.

"Yes," Celestia answered before she was lifted off the ground in a bear hug.

"Thank you for taking care of Ash for all this time god knows he needed it," Jabir said.

"You’re quite welcome," Celestia said with a smile before Jabir set her down.

"I'm sorry about my husband he's a hugger," Rosa said.

"Think nothing of it I'm glad someone can be so open as to hug me like that everyone else won't so I'm glad for a complete stranger will give me a hug," Celestia said.

"Oh then please allow me to introduce myself I'm Rosa," Rosa said.

"Rosa I've seen and heard much of you from Ash I'm glad he had someone like you in his life," Celestia said.

"Hello Princess Celestia I'm Eli and might I say you are a gem," Eli said causing Celestia to blush.

"Flatter," Celestia said.

"Nice to finally meet you Celestia I'm Rebecca and if Eli there says or does something stupid I'll kick his butt for you," Rebecca said.

"Hey," Eli said.

"I'll keep that in mind and you are?" Celestia asked as she looked at Allen.

"Oh my name is Allen I was one of the officers that helped Ash escape," Allen said.

"I remember you have my thanks for comforting him after that incident," Celestia said before she looked at me while I had a smirk on my face. "Alright I was wrong they are very good people not to mention trustworthy you were right."

"And don't you forget it," I said.

"Hello Princess Celestia."

Celestia turned around and gasped when she saw Sunset standing behind her.

"Sunset Shimmer," Celestia said.

"Princess I just wanted to apologise for wha-," Sunset didn't get to finish before she was wrapped in a hug.

"No apologises are necessary Sunset Shimmer I'm just happy to see your smiling face again," Celestia said with tears in her eyes.

"Are you going to introduce me?"

I spun around and saw Luna holding Midnight and she surprised me with a kiss on the lips causing my friends to stare.

"Sorry about that Luna but anyway these guys are the ones I came friends with in that cell except Allen he's one of the officers that got me out," I said when Luna and my lips separated. "Everyone this is my marefriend Luna and my son Midnight Star."

"It's so wonderful to meet you all in pony," Luna said.

"No, no the pleasure is ours Luna I'm so happy Ash has found love with someone," Rosa said.

"I'll leave you guys to get acquainted with each other better right now I have to introduce someone to Faust…oh and Rebecca," I said.

"Yeah?" Rebecca asked.

"You know how to handle Eli if he gets out of hand," I said.

"Hey," Eli said.

"Don't worry," Rebecca said with a smirk.

I gave a smile before I walked over to Faust who was crouched down and talking with Akachi I swear she was absolute putty in ones hands when it came to foals.

"Having fun?" I asked.

"Oh hello Ash I was just talking to Akachi here," Faust said as she stood up and dusted of her dress before she faced me.

"I can see that but there's someone who wants to meet you," I said.

"Oh I'd better not keep them waiting then," Faust said.

I lead Faust over to the doors and saw everyone was getting along well.

"Alright stay here I'll bring her in," I said as we stopped before the door and I walked outside and saw Amalthea looking nervous. "She's ready to see you."

"I don't know it's been a long time," Amalthea said.

"It will only get worse if you wait any longer," I said.

Amalthea gave me a nod before she trotted inside and when Faust saw Amalthea her eyes widened in surprise Amalthea walked right up to Faust and looked her in the eye. All eyes were turned to Amalthea some in surprise others in curiosity.

"It's been a long time your majesty," Amalthea said before she began to bow but Faust stopped her and gave her a hug.

"Too long my old friend too long," Faust said.

I gave a smile before I re-joined the others and saw Rosa holding Midnight and cooing at him we chatted for a couple of minutes and introduced my friends from earth to my friends of Equestria.

"Ash where are your wings?" Luna asked as she looked at my back.

"Hm oh right I forgot," I said as I removed the spell and extended my wings I gave them two flaps before I folded them against my back once more drawing attention from everyone in the room.

"I'll never get used to the fact that you have wings," Allen said.

"Well it's a fact you'll have to live with mate," I said.

"Are you..."

I turned around and saw Amalthea looking at me in shock.

"Are you...Is your name Ash Blade?" Amalthea asked.

"Hm...Oh that's right I was interrupted before I could introduce myself yes my name is Ash Blade a pleasure to meet you Amalthea," I said.

Amalthea then walked around me and stopped behind me I felt the point of her horn touching the mark on my back. Suddenly, I felt a painful rush of magic enter my back and Amalthea walked back around in front of me. Suddenly, I felt something in my hands and I looked to see my right hand's veins were glowing white and my left arm felt hotter before it became horribly painful enough so to make me collapse to my knees screaming in pain. I looked at my left hand and saw that it turned into a red arm with sharp pointed fingers and curved spikes overlapping each other growing out of the top of the forearm that reminded me of the demons before it returned to normal. I then looked at my left arm became white and softer then my left it was almost angelic before it returned to normal. I then felt something trying to force its way out of my back causing me to scream louder and I saw everyone was looking at me in fear. Suddenly, whatever was in my back broke free breaking my skin and most likely spilling a lot of blood. After that the pain slowly ebbed away and when I could move I looked behind me on my left and saw five wings that were identical to my ones. And on my right was the same amount and my hands had stopped changing.

"What the hell...What did you do to me?" I asked as I looked at Amalthea.

Amalthea then did the one thing I was not expecting her to do she bowed to me.

"I'm glad to see your alive your highness," Amalthea said.

"What?" I asked in complete shock.

"Ash," I heard Faust say

I turned to look at the alicorn and saw her kneeling to me as well.

"I think it's time I tell you a story," Faust said.