It did not take very long, before Black Knight’s allies had arrived after hearing young Galaxia scream her little head off. Once they arrived, the three sons remained off to the side, not wishing to interrupt the authors in their conversation about her. The topic was indeed important and they did not have say in what would happen to her, despite their own personal feelings about the subject… Both Night Reaper and Darth Nextrion were prepared to argue, even fight, over the idea of what they are deciding, but Darethel forced them to stand down, making key points about what would happen, if they were to go with one of them instead of the authors. With that, the two reluctantly quiet any opposition they had, while Darethel continued to brood about such a thing. He didn’t like it either, but he also saw the reason behind her going with one of the authors, instead of one of her brothers.

The authors all gathered within the Black Knight’s Realm, all trying to figure out what on earth they planned to do with Galaxia, formally known as Silver Star. All the while, the gray filly continued to ball her eyes out n Magic Shield’s coat, it didn’t do the poor thing any good… Especially when it was sad filly that discovered her father’s motionless armor, resting against the Altar of Stories… Not a single trace of his shadow magic anywhere to be found, even when Shadow2777 showed up with a special artifact that could locate such a powerful entity.

“We can’t just leave her here, you guys… I mean, she’s just a filly.” Magic Shield said, the mare looking at the other authors around her, Lightning Eclipse standing next to her. “The poor thing wouldn’t last a week on her own, magic or not, even if her brothers somehow managed to find a way to check in on her.”

All eyes went to Shadow2777, who gave a sigh and rubbed the back of his head. “I can’t take her with me, that’s a definite no… My realm, and the Itani, would terrify her. There are also artifacts that could really do some mental or physical damage to her, just by being close to them.” He looked at the crying filly, a few of his heartstrings pulling seeing her in such a condition. “I’m not that close to her, either. Though, I do want to help with what I can, it just can’t be me taking care of her.”

“The Imperium shall take her in! We shall make her a valiant beacon of the Emperor!” HaloInquisitor announced, Commissar Craner nodding in approval. “With us at her side, teaching her about the Emperor’s Light, she will-!”

“NO WAY IN HELL!” The group all yelled, making the two Emperor Fanatics back away, intimidated by the combined force of the group.

“Then I, the One and Only Mudkip, shall take our orphaned friend in!” The Angry Marine slammed a powerfist against his chest, his words causing poor Galaxia to cry even louder! Which, in turn, made him give a look of confusion.

In seconds, Magic Shield had the filly in a tighter hug, trying to calm her down. “Nice going, Mr. Sensitivity! You made things even worse!” The mare flared, her mane moving around like a flame, seeing to the filly instead of addressing the Angry Marine further.
Mudkip stuttered, not meaning to make the poor thing cry even more. Before he could say anything else, WarWolf placed a clawed hand on to his shoulder. “Don’t suggest it, mon ami… You do have a tendency to be far too blunt for certain situations.” The French Werewolf Author said, Mudkip backing down.

However, none of them even noticed that a new presence stood at the castle entrance, seeing them surrounding the crying Galaxia, not noticing that the three brothers were off to the side.

“Scorch, Hono no Hikoyari!” The whispering voice, and sounds of a roaring flame, forced the group of authors to turn around… Seeing a woman, standing n taller than five-foot-five, glasses, short dark brown hair, and a rather thin frame; earing the attire of a female Soul Reaper Officer. Her hood was down, and scarf had been pulled down to her neck, but they were more focused on the fact she was pointing a really tall crimson bow, adorned with golden accents, and a flaming arrow already strung to it. While keeping the blazing arrow trained on them, she narrowed her eyes at the group of authors. “I’ll ask this only once… What are you doing to little Silvy, and what have you done with BK?”

They all just stared at the small woman, despite being outnumbered by them… She was actually standing her ground against the authors, undaunted by who they could be. Commissar Craner looked at the others, not noticing that the three brothers were actually inching away from the woman with their hands up, as if saying they aren’t with them. “Uh… Vote on us taking out a possible-?”

“DONE! No way am I fighting her!” Shadow2777 suddenly yelled, throwing both of his .45 revolvers on to the ground. “Ain no way in hell am I going to risk being haunted by a SERIOUSLY pissed off ghost BK!”
Magic Shield raised an eyebrow, looking up at the normally drunk author. “You know her, Shadow?” She asked, tilting her head. “If so, care to fill us in on what she’s doing in a normally well-guarded Realm? One that we all require a rune of some kind to even enter?”

Well, you see… It’s kind of complicated for me to explain.” He motioned to the woman, who is still pointing a blazing arrow at them, ready to lose it. “Katharine Alvers here is-?”

“MOMMY!!!!” The filly suddenly screamed, whizzing past the group of authors, and flying right into the new arrival’s chest! Forcing her to drop the bow, which turned back into a medium sized katana, and hold the crying filly… Trying to comfort her, going down to her knees, while Galaxia attempted to dry her eyes in Katharine’s kimono.

“M-M-MOMMY!?!?” All of the authors yelled, completely dumbstrucked by the filly’ outburst, while Shadow rubbed the back of his head. “Y-Yeah, that about sums it up.” Shadow backed away some, giving Katharine a nervous wave. “H-Hey, Katharine, how are you today?”

The Soul Reaper looked up at him, still holding Galaxia in a comforting hug and rubbing the back of her head. “Oh, Shadow, I don’t know… Stopped some lunatic from shooting my little baby with some terribly designed cannon, on a giant metal spider the size of a city, had to go to another meeting with other Bleach Authors, then come back to see what is going on with Black Knight’s story, and why Silvy is being attacked so much, only to find her crying with you lot surrounding her like some flock of vultures.” Her narrowed glare actually sent chills down the spines of all the authors, but soon went to the side, catching the three brothers trying to inch away from said situation. “And where do you three think you’re going, hm? I’m not done yet.”

They all freezed, and visibly had a chill run throughout their body when she looked at them, each waving. In mere seconds, all three stood up straight, and gave a classic bow from the waist. “H-Hello, M-Mother! Welcome home!” They said together, the fact that these three were terrified of her, clued the clueless authors in on what kind of power Katharine had over Black Knight’s Realm when not present.

“Close, you three almost saved your skins with that proper greeting.” Katharine noted, the three going wide eyed and instantly pressing themselves further against the wall, each begging for her not to discipline them. “Don’t worry, I’m not going to punish you, yet. It all depends on what Shadow there has to tell me.” She instantly looked at said author, who froze and really wished he got out of there before she showed up. “Now then, Shadow? Mind filling me on what had happened?” She asked, giving him a comforting, yet terrifying, smile.

“R-Really wish… I had a drink right now.” Shadow said, before telling her everything his Itani had recorded, and things going on behind the scenes.

Katharine remained where she was, comforting Galaxia, the filly slowly calming down from her distress. Her fingers slowly guided themselves through the filly’s hair, expertly untangling any strands without even disturbing her. Shadow found it even harder to explain things with that stare of hers peering at him, unable to gauge whether or not she’s about to try and kill him or not. When Galaxia was finally sound asleep, and Shadow had finished the last of his explanation, the Soul Reaper Author gave a heavy sigh and placed a hand over her forehead.

She shook her head, before her gaze went back up at the trench coat wearing author, who took a step back from her. “So, what you’re telling me, is that all of this is because of a Rogue Itani, one of your Itani that seems to have some strange vendetta against you, and so is targeting BK to try and weaken you at the same time from allies that could actually stop him?” She asked, as Shadow nodded to her, signifying she just summed things up from his end. “He ironically corrupted a rather clever author, who hated his stories, and supplied him with the needed abilities to actually infiltrate this Realm, including using one of those Silver Keys to enter this place?” Again, Shadow gave a nod. “And now, none of you know what happened to him, after that crazed lunatic mortally wounded him? Leaving Galaxia on her own, with none of her brothers able to take her in until things get settled?”

“T-To be fair, Katharine, we were all just discussing on which one of us would be taking her in-!”

“That doesn’t get you out of the woods, this is still your fault, Shadow.” Katharine interrupted, making him flinch. He knew it was his fault, already, but hearing it come from another actually hurt his pride a bit. She gave another heavy sigh, looking down at the sleeping filly in her lap, rubbing her head ever so lovingly. “But do not worry about Silvy-… Well, Galaxia, since she found out, I’ll stay here with her. My Realm isn’t too far, and I do not really need to show up there at all, it doesn’t require the amount attention that BK’s Realm does, that goof ball’s mind never stops working… But, Ms. Shield?”

“Y-Yes, ma’am!” The mare announced, standing up straight as if she were a soldier being addressed by her commanding officer… It was obvious, Magic Shield was rather intimidated by her. Something about the fact that two of Black Knight’s strongest sons, and one of his most sadistic ones, being terrified of her and Shadow actually being cautious of her… Unnerved the mare, and sent warning flags everywhere within her mind. “Right here!”

Her response made Katharine give a friendly little giggle, smiling at the mare. “I have to thank you, for taking care of Gally for BK and me. I truly do owe you for that, and I’m sure BK does to for all of your hard work.” The mare smiled, and gave a nod. “Now then, you all can go… I need to deal with some of the kids, for taking so long and not being at their baby sister’s side quicker.” That gave the authors’ their que to leave, not wasting any time to leave the castle and shut the door behind them. When they approached the Realm’s Gates, they went wide eyed, and froze, when Katharine’s voice echoed like a thunder from some raging storm. “You three no good, knuckleheaded, lazy, good for nothing, poor excuses for older siblings! What in sam’s hill were you three doing while all that was happening to poor Gally!? Having a tea party, or something!? I have half a mind to clobber each and every one of you, before having Hono no Hikoyari roast you all within your own armor as punishment!”

Mudkip looked at the others, pointing a powerfist clad finger toward the castle. “R-Really glad… I-I’m not either of those three…” The other authors all gave a nod of agreement.

While each left, one after the other, it came down to two remaining authors, Magic Shield looking back at Shadow2777, with a raised brow while said trench coat wearing author stared up at one of the castle’s towers. “Are you coming, or not, Shadow? I don’t think you staying in this realm any longer than you have is a good thing? That Katharine person seems rather livid about this whole ordeal, and you did admit to it being your fault for not watching the Itani closer.” She noted, causing Shadow to look back at her.

“You go on ahead, Magic, I’ll be along shortly… Just taking BK’s disappearance, and possible death, a bit much.” He said, giving a half wave towards her and a friendly smile. “Don’t worry, I’ll be gone way before Katharine’s fury remembers about me, and refocuses from the current three ‘knuckleheads’ she’s dealing with.”

Magic Shield kept a raised brow, confused by Shadow’s response, before shrugging both of her shoulders. “Whatever you say, Shadow… Just make sure you leave, before she roasts those three, and remembers whose fault it really is.” She said, causing Shadow to gain a hurt expression.

“Jeez, I get it, I goofed up… No need to rub it in.” Shadow said, slumping over.

“Just remember, my mane got really messed up because of this whole ordeal. I expect you to pay for my next Salon Trip.” With that, Magic Shield trotted through the portal, with a confident smirk on her muzzle.

This left Shadow slumped over, and a really nervous look on his face. “Jeez… I’m going to be broke for a while, if it is one of her normal Salon Trips…” He said, rubbing his forehead, before the trench coat wearing author stood up straight, looking back up at the castle. A smirk slowly formed on his lips, as he just stares at the dark castle. “Seriously, man, you should hide yourself a bit better, and give me a bit of warning next time Kathrine comes to visit… Should be grateful I’m keeping this a secret, while you heal, Black Knight. By the way, that look suits you better than the more mortalized version of yourself. Really allows one to gauge how strong you are.”

An even slier grin appeared on his lips, Shadow’s teeth showing a bit, as he stared up behind the castle… Right at a colossal silhouette of some dark figure, with red eyes, watching over the Realm. Signifying, that the being never left the Realm, and someone apparently lied about not detecting their signature.

After the whole incident with Darth Various, and the destruction of Spirit of Mother’s Will, much of Equestria was lost to invading Kingdoms taking advantage of the peaceful land’s state of emergency. The Changeling Hives have taken control of Canterlot, and the surrounding areas. The newly formed Gryphon Empire had taking the western areas of Equestria, Yakyakistan tried to help the Crystal Empire ensure none took the northern regions, but they were having difficulty dealing with the ever expanding Changlings. The sourthern regions were taken by the Kingdom of Cervidas, and the eastern part was currently being contested by Germaney and Prance, Germaney doing their best to try and keep it within the hooves of the Royal Sisters. The Kingdom of Cervidas soon found itself being pushed back from Equestria’s southern regions, by Dragon Lord Ember and her Dragon Army. The Cervidas forces were broken and scattered by the spearhead of the Dragon Army, being led by former Dragon Lord Torch.

Though, with the return of Equestria’s forces to Canterlot… The Changelings were quickly outmatched by the army of Night Lords soaring into the skies or appearing from the shadows, striking at their most vulnerable points. When the Gryphon Empire heard of a small army currently besieging Canterlot, the new King of the Gryphons saw this as an opportunity to break Equestria’s existence for good, and take the kingdom for the newly formed Gryphon Empire. He ordered his forces to actually attack Canterlot, trying to force the Equestrian Army to defend itself on two fronts… Not knowing about the Astartes that were making up the Equestrian Military’s bulk forces.

However, they never met the genetically enhanced super soldiers on the field of battle. When the Gryphon Imperial Army approached Canterlot, they were met by the most unexpected advisory imaginable. The seventy-meter-tall Custos Aeternam, acting Headquarters and Mobile Fortress of the Equestrian Military. The Imperator Titan was actually lying in wait for the Gryphon Army to take this chance, Konrad Curze predicting that the greedy Gryphons would actually attempt a cowardly attack. The new Imperial Gryphon Army stood no chance against Custos Aeternam’s superior firepower and devastating arsenal, majority of their forces being taken out by the Annihilator Cannon and then by the Hellstorm Cannon.

Scootaloo actually felt even more pride within herself, since it was the filly piloting the mighty War God striding upon the battlefield. Her grandfather and father had left her in charge of breaking the Gryphon Offensive, and then push forward in retaking what parts of Equestria they had stolen until the Night Lords could arrive and support her. She would have not gone, the filly worried about possibly making a mistake or pushing too far and being outflanked by the Gryphons… But Twilight decided she would go with her, with a contingent of Night Lords acting as support. This boasted Scootaloo’s confidence, and agreed to go with her mother by her side.

When Equestria’s new military might had been revealed, the peaceful Kingdom’s army having both an army of genetically enhanced super soldiers and a massive mobile fortress within their ranks, the other Kingdoms instantly recalling their forces. Equestria had returned to the hands of the Royal Sister and Princess Twilight Sparkle, who stood proudly within their capital before their newly founded Legion of Astartes and Mobile Fortress, the Kingdom nicknamed the ‘Hand of the Princesses’. Whenever a new threat rose within Equestria, six mares weren’t sent alone to defeat them, but an entire Legion at their backs and a metal War God striding behind them.

The Kingdom of Equestria knew no greater peace, than what had been achieved by the Left Hand known as ‘Night Lords’, the dark guardians ever vigilant of their charges and appearing from the masses whenever summoned for duty or to fight. Custos Aeternam, when not actively deployed to some battlefield with Scootaloo at its command, the Imperator Titan acted as the Cutie Mark Crusaders’ new headquarters. This allowed more and more foals, trying to earn their cutie marks, join their club and be allowed to see the War God in the metal flesh. This new station actually allowed Custos Aeternam to not only fly the Equestrian Colors, but also the banners of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, to proudly stride into battle as a member himself, the Imperator Titan feeling honored that his Princeps and friends offered him such a thing.

Though, with time moving on, many things became revealed. Such as, Custos Aeternam wasn’t lying when he told Scootaloo she would not age like the others. When the Cutie Mark Crusaders aged past their prime, Scootaloo remained so and forever feeling young, thanks to the Imperator Titan’s metaphorical Fountain of Youth. While it was painful for the, now, mare to watch her friends age to their older years, it was worse on the Captains of the Night Lords/Guard.

The long lived Astartes were forced to watched the ones they loved fade away, even after starting families with them. They knew such a mortal desire would bring nothing but heartache, but they wished to do so anyways. To try and live a normal life, rather than in a constant state of war.

War Sage had at least five foals with Applejack, many of the Night Guards joking about how the old stallion had quite the libido with said mare… Who always replied “What can I say? I like the taste of Apples”, which earned several unwanted images in his brethren’s minds. Though, the most venerated of the Captains kept watch over Sweet Apple Acres, watching his kids have kids, then grand kids have kids, and so on; while he remained the oldest current Apple Family member, regaling their history to the younger generation. Whenever the Apple Orchard was in danger of being bought by some politician or business man, the old stallion would walk up and scare them off, reminding the money crazed profiteers that Sweet Apple Acres would always be in the Apple Family hooves, and ensure it so long as he still has a beating heart. When it became under attack by more physical means, the Apple Family were instantly reminded, that their eldest member wasn’t just any stallion… But one of the Night Lords most venerated Captains and Terminators.

Void Dancer was hit hard after Pinkie’s early passing, but managed to raise their two fillies proudly, reminding them to always smile. That their mother would never want to see them frowning, and like for them to always be laughing. The Cakes saw fit to give the livelier Captain Sugar Cube Corner, feeling that he would keep Pinkie Pie’s dream alive with each sweet sold. Though, they couldn’t help but be reminded of how long it took said mare to teach him how to cook the perfect sweets. Now, Sugar Cube Corner is on the Equestrian Map for having the best sweets in the whole Kingdom, in which Princess Celestia would commonly go down and enjoy a slice of chocolate cake from Void Dancer. This earned him quite the reputation as also a party planner, like his late wife, and often throwing parties for any who came and asked him… Many felt sorry for the Captain, when even his kids passed before his time, but the stallion always kept a smile on his muzzle and entertained every one of his descendant the best way possible… With a chuckling smile! However, mercy find those that threatened the store’s serenity or Void Dancer’s family, for they’ll soon find out that he is truly a Night Lord through and through.

Sky Spear… Took Rainbow Dash’s death in a strange way. The two only had one foal, a colt they both loved to the moon and back, but noticed he wasn’t strong as the two. This brought the two adrenaline seeking ponies back down to earth, realizing they couldn’t keep living like they did. When they were asked to go on tour, they would ensure that their son would come along with them, and have only the best of care if both were performing. The Wonderbolts couldn’t help but agree to this, since one was an Element and the other was the Atramentar Captain. When Rainbow Dash passed away, Sky Spear kept watch over their sickly son with a Night Lord’s vigil, but soon became happy when a mare came along and helped with such a duty. Showing that she did not care for his conditions and treatments, and loved him like his mother did. When they were married, and Sky Spear was absolutely sure that his son had the best care, often pouring in his personal funds to help, the Atramentar Captain became a full active duty member of the Wonderbolts and Equestrian Emergency Response Force(EERF). Though, he always did find time to visit his beloved son and their family, loving every second his grandchildren gave him. Finding out, that both his and Rainbow Dash’s challenge accepting personality passed on to their descendants many times.

Soul Hunter did not show much emotion when Fluttershy passed, the two having at least three foals before she died in child birth with the forth. He took his duties as a doctor and healer even more seriously after that, feeling like he had failed the kind mare. Most of his time was spent with either their children, or at work in the hospital. No call was too small, no patient too healthy, for him to answer. Whenever there was a call for medical help, Soul Hunter arrived on scene, prepared to do whatever was necessary to help the sick and injured… This rolled over to the animals in his late wife’s care, Fluttershy’s Cottage remaining open for the many creatures of Equestria. Seeing his kindness and duty to both pony and animals, their children often followed in Soul Hunter’s duties as either a doctor or as a veterinarian, wishing to keep Fluttershy’s memory and kindness going to future generations. Time passed, and generations of menders came from Fluttershy and Soul Hunter, but all remembered that this kind doctor… Was also one of the top Apothecaries within the Night Lords, who often acted as a Combat Field Medic during times of crisis, who also knew how to swing his highly decorated sword in defense of the weak, sick, and injured.

Diamond Arrow and Rarity never could have a foal of their own, the fashionista turning out to be infertile. It broke her heart, to find out that she could not have a foal of her own, to be a true mother, or be a respectable wife to Diamond Arrow. However, the stallion managed to repair the hole in her heart, when they decided to take a page from Twilight and Night Claw’s book, deciding that they would adopt a foal. After the paperwork had been completed, and the two returned home with their new filly, they treated her like she truly was her own. Rarity making her dress after dress, ensuring their filly had the most up to date fashion of the time, while Diamond Arrow taught her many things, even showed her how politics worked when she showed interest in it. She grew up to be one of Equestria’s most clever, and well versed, diplomats and dignitaries. Often times, their daughter would go with Twilight and Night Claw, on diplomatic missions to other Kingdoms and Empires. The two became even more proud, when their daughter managed to avert an entire war between Saddle Arabia and Cervidas. After Rarity had passed away, Diamond Arrow ensured that her funeral met with the mare’s high standards, and everything was perfect, before continuing his job as the Night Guard’s representative within the House of Equestrian Nobles, often giving advice to their Lord and Father during Royal Councils. However, the stallion made sure Rarity’s generosity lived on, and donated to many different charities, including going to the fashion shows for new fashion designers, giving helping advise and funding those who had trouble getting on their feet.

The more mysterious of their brothers, Swift Blade, had twins with Trixie, but not many know what happened to the unique pair after the Darth Various Incident. Though, he often visited Soul Hunter, whenever the small family traveled near Ponyville. The twins turned out to be either Twilight’s aspiring prized student or a Wonderbolt Ace in the making, which made their parents very proud. After Trixie’s passing, Swift Blade became more and more mysterious to his brethren, not even coming to their yearly gathering, only showing up every five years on the dot. However, the Night Guard did hear rumors of a mysterious navy blue bat pony stallion, wielding a large sword, swiftly coming to the rescue of small villages too far outside of their quick response force’s reach. Some even say they saw said stallion transform into some hulky, bipedal, metal giant with a chain-like sword instead of his normal blade. This caused the Captains to only smirk, finding out their mysterious brother was keeping to their new ideals and path.

Night Claw continued serving as Twilight’s personal guard, commander of her Night Guard, and husband. The two going everywhere together, their bond growing with each passing day. It got to the point, that the two of them managed to predict the other, able to finish each other’s sentence or find exactly what one was looking for. However, what the stallion did not enjoy, was when he found out what had come of Twilight’s boldness just before the final battle with Darth Various. Said alicorn mare being pregnant with a foal, an alicorn foal, like her older brother and sister-in-law had. He, Spike, Scootaloo, and Custos Aeternam; found out that Twilight was one cranky pregnant mare, asking for many strange cravings. One of which being her most hated food, a Quesadilla with extra cheese. She ran the two ponies and baby dragon ragged, and sometimes all three of them had to sleep within the Imperator Titan while she was in one of her bad moods. Though, Custos Aeternam wasn’t spared her pregnant wrath, and often sent on strange errands to far away places to retrieve something for her, that would have taken the others days or weeks to retrieve. But, when the foal came, after hours in the emergency room and painful squeezes from said mare on Night Claw’s poor hoof, their foal came. The colt had a midnight blue coat and black hair, like his father, but the feathered wings of his mother while his horn was already starting to grow a bit. Starlight had her friend, Sun Burst, come down and ensure they wouldn’t have any troubles like Flurry Heart gave when she was born. When asked what his name would be, both Twilight and Night Claw agreed to name him ‘Shadow Blitz’, in honor of the stallion’s decease twin.

Shadow Blitz walked through the Ponyville streets, adorning his custom designed Night Guard armor, the alicorn stallion presenting it proudly to the world. He was proud to be welcomed among the honored Order of Equestrian Defenders, especially after he found out what they really were and given the chance to be considered a ‘brother’ instead of the young nephew. Like the armor, he was also proud of the cutiemark on his flank, a black shield with red bat wings adorning it. To him, it symbolizes his heritage and duty to Equestria, to continue the duty of his father and protect Equestria as the unsung hero, to defeat the Kingdom’s foe as the left hand of justice. He was even given a chance to prove himself, when they gave him command over a squad of Night Guard Bat Ponies, each one seasoned veteran and Night Raptors of the VIII Legion.

Today, he is returning from a successful mission alongside his father, the venerated Commander Night Claw. The stallion had aged from what he was so many years ago, his raven black hair having been replaced with snow white hairs. His gray eyes remained the same, but one could see the years of service on his face. They were moving slower this time, Shadow Blitz noticing that his father had been struggling to keep up with his ever lively son. The fact was more than obvious to the younger stallion; the years have not been kind to his father. “It is… A rather good day, isn’t it, Blitz?” Night Claw asked, standing a head taller than Shadow Blitz, smiling down at him.

The almost carbon copy son smiled up at his bat pony father, and nodded. “It is, father… I feel like Princess Celestia somehow knows about our victory over the Neo-Gryphon Empire Rebel, trying to usurp our peace with their Hierarchy, and is celebrating with a wondrous day.”

Night Claw gave a nod, smiling a bit more. “Who knows, Princess Celestia is a strange one, I would not be surprised if she somehow knew about it.” He chuckled a bit, looking down at his son again. “How about you go on ahead of me, hm? If I recall, your older sister has returned with Custos Aeternam, their mission to the north had been a success in defeating the Sombra Cultist Fortress. I also hear, your grandfather has come with the newest member of our family, a true jewel of the night.”

While it was obvious that Shadow Blitz is excited to see his older sister, the ever energetic and grand role model sibling had always held a special place to Shadow Blitz, said stallion always wanting to spend time with his sister and hear the stories of what it is like being the Imperator Titan’s partner. Not to mention, he had also heard that his grandfather was coming for a visit, and was bringing Midnight Vale with him, Princess Luna being the ever protective mother over their child while Night Haunter felt she should experience the world as he did in those young years. But, he hesitated. “Are you sure father? I am more than happy to stay with you, and walk this path. I enjoy your company.” He asked, smiling up at the stallion. In all honesty, he was worried about his father. Night Claw had been having a lot of trouble lately, he even had to sit out most of their battles, due to his hearts having trouble and filling his body with sheer, agonizing, pain when he moved.

The sense of worry passed to the older stallion, Night Claw keening in on his son’s fears. “I’ll be fine, Blitz, you go enjoy yourself… I may be old, but I won’t be going anytime soon. I just tire a lot easier now, and not as young as I used to be.” He said, smiling back down at the younger stallion, his gray gaze lingering on him for a few moments, a sense of pride filling his heart, while he stared at the Night Guard Armor adorning Shadow Blitz’s form. “You go tell your mother that I will be on in a bit, just taking my time and not wishing to strain myself too much. You know how she gets.”

That caused Shadow Blitz to give a nervous chuckle, remembering how much of a worry wart his mother could be, and nodded. “Of course, Father. I understand completely. J-Just… Be careful, alright?”

Night Claw gave a nod, before using his large wing to push Shadow Blitz forward. “I will, now get going. I know how excited you are to see Scootaloo and hear about her victory over the Cultists.” With that, Shadow Blitz gave a nod, flying off towards the Friendship Castle, with the towering form of Custos Aeternam acted as a vigilant sentinel behind it.

Once his son was out of sight, Night Claw released a pain-filled sigh, reaching a hoof up to where his two hearts continued to pump. He did not want to admit it in front of Shadow Blitz, but the Night Guard had been in so much pain after they arrived, that it took every ounce of his mental willpower to not drag his hooves against the cobblestoned streets of Ponyville. His breathing became heavier, as he took this moment to rest and catch a breather before continuing on. The other members of the Night Guard agreed not to mention, he even had Soul Hunter swear not to breath a word of it, but within the past year… Night Claw had suffered at least seven heart attacks, and became paralyzed for three days straight. It was a sign, that his body was starting to fail. Soul Hunter admitted, that his time could very well come soon, but he was unable to tell since Astartes live such hazardous lives that dying of old age was considered unheard of. For all he knew, this could just be the enhanced genetic structure trying to help continue his lifespan from some biological expiration date.

Such a thing, made him rethinks on how things were, and how they used to be. But, right now, he focused more on how much Ponyville had changed within the past hundred and eighty years. The once small farm village of different pony races, had turned into a decent sized stone town, the streets even getting an upgrade from their old fashion dirt roads. The buildings were no longer wood, but made of stone that could rival the old Canterlot City, and town hall looked like it could be a Senate Building. Twilight even had a Museum built in honor of both the Night Guards and the Elements of Harmony that passed away years ago, passing on life lessons to the younger generations along with give them grand heroes to look up to. This, of course, required him to make visits every now and then, alongside the Princess. He remembered every question that the foals asked him, even a colt that asked if he truly was the original Night Claw, in which he proved it by transforming into his Night Lord form, Xeron. That was about two months ago, and he also remember the amount of strain just transforming did to him. He had to rest for two weeks after that.

Night Claw quickly shook his head, trying to push the thoughts out of his mind and continue on his walk back home. After all, he had a lovely wife to see, and will tell everypony until his face turned blue that there is no other more beautiful than Twilight. The Alicorn Mare had aged like fine wine, in his more romantic words once said to Twilight, and her beauty grew with each day. Her mane had turned into a sparkling twilight sky, like one would see for a brief second at the stroke of midnight, and her height matched his own now. Her lavender coat had brightened, and gave off a majestically goddess look with each movement she had made, matching that of Celestia, Luna, and Cadence; now. However, he could still see the nerdy librarian that he fell for, every time she puts her mane up in a ponytail, reading books upon books within her personal library, using those reading glasses that usually drove him crazy to see her with. It really pushed him over his metaphorical limits, when she had a pencil behind her ear, then he was out for the count and demanded that they locked the doors and spend a good while alone.

Yes, he had her to return to, along with Scootaloo and Shadow Blitz. He may not be young as he used to be, but Night Claw still had much to do for them. He was their father, their hero, their mentor; no way will he allow himself to pass on yet.

“Still got to keep going, there is still some life within this old warrior yet.” Night Claw grunted, picking his hooves up and headed towards the castle. Each step felt like someone was stabbing needles into his body, followed by daggers. He could feel his chest burning, like someone had just grabbed hold of him there and squeezed tightly. “No, not yet. I’m for damn sure not going to give up now. Twilight and the others…. Still need me.” He grunted, getting closer and closer to the castle.

The doors slowly opened, and Night Claw saw Twilight step out. When she saw him, the alicorn mare smiled and he returned the gesture with a nod… But his vision started to blur, and he could barely make Twilight’s form out. Before the stallion knew it, he was laying on his side, feeling the cold stone against his fur, Twilight kneeling next to him. She was saying something, but her voice was muffled. The mare wrapped a hoof around his frame, shaking him, as Night Claw’s eyes slowly started to close.

“N-No… Not y-yet. I-I don’t want… To go, j-just yet.” He tried to fight it, but his eyes just kept closing, Night Claw just felt so tired. He needed to sleep, he needed to rest and it was like his entire body went on auto-pilot. The pain slowly started to cease, as his eyes drew closer and closer to shutting completely. And, when they finally did so, Night Claw received his rest….

The Terror Guard of Equestria, Night Claw, had passed away.

It was like all of Equestria was in mourning, every citizen had closed up shop and gone to the funeral service of their greatest hero. There were even key leaders and dignitaries from other Kingdoms at the funeral, wishing to pay respects to the Night Guard Commander. What shocked the world even more, sworn enemies of Equestria had signed cease fire agreements, so they may attend the funeral as well, feeling they should pay their final respects to their greatest of advisories, to honor him in death as they did in life. The three other Princesses had cleared their entire schedule for a month, in order to help comfort Twilight, just as many of the major members of the Night Guard had. Prince Night Haunter was even in attendance, feeling like he should be there for Twilight, since her parents were no longer around, the bat pony alicorn stallion sitting next to the mare, his red bat wing draped over her crying form.

Shadow Blitz stayed with his mother, on the other side, tears welling up within his eyes. The stallion knew his father was in no condition to be left alone, yet he did as he was told, like the dutiful son he is. The young alicorn stallion kept blaming himself, even when the Night Guard Captains told him not to, that their brother was ever the stubborn one. Now, the duty of being the Night Guard Commander fell upon his shoulders, as the Captains all agreed should. They knew Night Claw felt that Shadow Blitz would make a grand leader, seeing much of himself and more within the younger stallion. With their brother gone, they planned to guide young Shadow Blitz into becoming either like Night Claw, or far better than he. Only time would tell that, and a future best saved for another time.

Scootaloo, unable to pilot Custos Aeternam due to her emotional state, hugged on to her mother. She was the second to discover that their father had passed away, seeing Twilight clinging on to the lifeless Night Claw. She could not get the peaceful look on his face, the stallion looked like he needed to rest and fallen asleep on the street again. She hoped that had been the case, completely frozen in fear about what she saw, and it required Custos Aeternam’s voice and confirmation that Night Claw’s hearts had stopped. The mare buried her face into Twilight’s chest, the two crying and trying to comfort the other.

The groups did not bother them, allowing the family to mourn their lost, and paid more attention to the Princesses giving speeches about the fallen hero. A casket of midnight blue and crimson trimmings behind them, surrounded with different assortments of flowers from those who came to give their respect. Adorning the casket’s top, was the enlarged Night Lords’ Insignia. It was to act as the funeral banner for Night Claw, who was being buried as Xeron… Celestia removing her spell over him and allowing the Night Lord to be buried as his true self, and not the form he had taken to hide within Equestria’s masses. It was the best way she could truly honor the dutiful warrior, that had selflessly served Equestria for over two centuries.

All eyes went to the altar, as Celestia walked up and stood before the guests. Her gaze wasn’t passive, as it would be normally, but filled with both pain and sorrow. She knew something like this would happen, but it struck her harder than normal due to it was her who brought him here. In all honesty, Celestia felt like Night-… Xeron was her responsibility, her own son in a way. Now, the VIII Legion Night Raptor had passed on, and her heart hurt.

She prepared to speak, but could not find her voice as tears welled up within her eyes. None said a word, as the eldest princess wiped the tears away with a wing, and took a moment to collect herself. “W-When I first brought him here, I honestly saw Xeron as a vigilant guardian for Twilight. Many of you knew him better as Night Claw, due to him having to hide himself for so long, but I knew his true self, who he really was, as Twilight did. Over the years, I stopped thinking of him as just another guardian, to protect those I care about, and started to see him more of a son, with all due respect Prince Haunter.”

“No disrespect given, Princess. We are honored that you saw him as such.” Night Haunter said, aloud.

“Thank you… As I was saying, Xeron became like a son in my eyes. While I did not show it, nor reveal it to anypony, he would forever be so. Now, I must stand here and give an expected long and memorial speech about him, but I cannot do that, not in the right mind… Because, that is something Xeron would not have wanted.” Her words actually earned a sorrowful giggle from Twilight, the younger alicorn remembering how her husband was. “But, I will say this… Xeron died as he lived, in Midnight Clad. He died as both a Night Lord and Night Guard, adorning the midnight blue of his legion until the very last moment of his life. With his passing, we mark the end of a great legacy in our history… The Legacy of the Terror Guard, a valiant protector of the common pony, one who would not hesitate to push the metaphorical line in order to save somepony he didn’t know, or did… Such a trivial thing did not matter to Xeron. He also wielded the left hand’s sword like it was a badge of honor, instilling fear among those he saw as a threat to his Twilight, family, and to Equestria. Many have gathered to honor him in some way, whether it be a statue standing before some great building, delivering flowers to his soon to be grave, comforting the family, or even signing a cease fire agreement so you may honor your foe.” She nodded to the Gryphon Empire, Cervidas, and Prance; leaders, who returned the gesture. “Regardless of any of these reasons, we all come to honor him… And honor him, we shall. Night Lords, if you will please.”

The Night Lords acting as the funeral Honor Guard quickly stood up, revealing themselves to be the Captains. The five walked up on to the stage, and positioned themselves around the casket, with Malachiorn at the head. Many waited for the Astartes to pick the casket up, and take it to where Xeron was to be entombed… But, they all blinked, when a heavy foot falls caused the entire ground to shake. Many wondered as to why the princesses wanted the service to be held at a steep cliff side, and their answer came when Custos Aeternam staggered to the cliff’s edge, a strange ramp lowering from his center tower to the ground. He released a mournful blare from his warhorn, echoing all around, allowing those to hear his cry for miles. Despite being a cold War God, even the Imperator Titan mourned the Commander’s death, as his Princeps did.

Celestia turned towards the mighty War God made metal, and respectfully bowed her head to him. “Commander Xeron… I learned of his legacy when Princeps Scootaloo and I first linked, then watched him ever since my awakening. He is truly a soul worth honoring in this life, and in the next. So, with the agreement of his family and the Princesses, he shall be entombed within a place of honor.” The ramp staggered, turning into metal steps leading towards Custos Aeternam’s center tower. “He shall be entombed within the Tower reserved for decorated and honored Princeps who have served with an Imperator Titan and became legendary within the Imperium… Commander Xeron, shall be placed at the very top of this tower, a place of great honor, beneath a statue showing both Xeron, the Night Lord, and Night Claw, the Terror Guard.” The Captains picked up the casket, lifting it up on to their shoulders, facing the ramp. “I shall now play a chant, given to me by my creator, marking the entombment of this great hero and legend of Equestria… To be remembered as such, and allow his legacy to create the heroes of tomorrow.”

The entire crowd fell silent, as the Imperator Titan’s speakers started to play a mournful chant, a chant of a fallen hero or legend. It was befitting of Xeron, the words were from some unknown tongue, many believed it to be from his homeworld but not even Night Haunter knew this language (Aay'han - Mandalorian Funeral Chant). When it started, the Captains slowly carried their brother up the ramp, towards the center tower. They, and every Night Lord present, were given the chant before the funeral service, and now sang along with the Imperator Titan. Their voices adding to its mournful tune, having an even greater effect on those present, none could hold back the tears, as they watched the Honor Guards, carrying a Legend of Equestria, deep into his tomb.

“Wake up, sleepy head… Sheesh, you are one heavy sleeper.” A voice called out, it was very familiar to Xeron but he could not place it. “Come on! I don’t’ have all day! Wake up, or I’m dumping a bucket of ice water on your head!”

Slowly, the Night Raptor opened his eyes, seeing the stars all around him, including the star formed bridge beneath his body. A single memory came to mind, he’s been to such a place before and had an idea who was behind this little trick. “Seriously, Celestia, I thought you would probably honor my passing by letting me die… While I do miss Twilight, I highly doubt it would be a good thing if I’m suddenly brought back from the dead, kind of immoral, don’t you think?”

“Normally, yes. But I’m not Celestia, ya big goof ball.” The voice said, making Xeron’s eyes go wide and turn to see who it was. The Astartes now saw a gray, anthro’ed, alicorn teen mare with blonde hair and a streak of white going down its center. She was wearing a black dress, marked with a red blade sword at its center. She was giving him an extremely friendly smile, before waving her right hand at him with far more enthusiasm than was required of her. “Hiya! Long time no see, Big Brother Xeron.”

“G-G-Galaxia? B-But, how?” Xeron asked, standing up and looking down at the, now, teen mare. “How did you bring me back?”

She gave a light shrug, smiling up at him. “You never really died, Xeron… You did in the story, yes, but you can still exist outside of it… That is, if your author allows it, and since I’m the new author, I did! I had to wait until your time ended in the story, according to mom, but I made sure everything went according to Daddy’s plan. All the way up to the very song he had planned for your funeral!”

“My… Funeral? Wait, story, planned, author? Hold up, you’re confusing me here, Galaxia. Mind explaining things a bit more simply?” Xeron asked, placing a hand over his aching head. “My head is starting to hurt.”

Galaxia suddenly grabbed his free hand, pulling him to follow her. “I’ll do it on the way, come on! Everyone is waiting! We’re throwing you a party!”

“We?” Xeron managed to say, before she managed to actually pull him.

Xeron looked up at the dark stoned castle, and the rather morbid surroundings, smirking. “I have to admit, whoever your father is, I do like his choice in scenery.” The Astartes said, following Galaxia towards the castle door, his words making her giggle.

“He’s your daddy, too, silly! I just explained that to you!” The teen said, waving back at him with a playful expression. “Did you forget that already? Where do you think we get our personalities from?”

“I’m actually still wrapping my head around that, to be honest…” Xeron rubbed the back of his head, Galaxia had told him everything he needed to know, and was promised all those years ago by Darethel. Who knew that it would require for him to die, again, in order to learn it all. “So, about this party, what is it for again?”

“Mmmmmm… You’ll see, though everyone kept being secretive about with me, as well. They all said there is a surprise for the both of us.” Galaxia answered, grabbing hold of the doorknob. “I hope it is some really yummy coconut cake… I got daddy’s taste for it, go figure.” She giggled, before opening the door.

“SURPRISE!” Several voices yelled, causing Xeron to nearly jump out of his armor! When he managed to look to see who was inside, the Night Raptor noticed Magic Shield, Zarrix, Zu’hal, Darethel, Night Reaper, and Darth Nextrion standing together… However, there were others he did not recognize. Such as a strange werewolf-like being, a Death Korps of Krieg Commissar, a strange looking Inquisitor, an Astartes clad in yellow armor with red trims and angry faces crudely drawn on his armor, and there was even an orange pegasus stallion with a katana. When he entered the castle, Galaxia leading him in, Xeron watched her walk right up to a woman wearing a black kimono with white underclothing, a katana at her hip.

“We’re back, mom! See, I brought Xeron here like you said to! Though, took a bit out of me, hehe.” She giggled, the woman smiling at her before looking up at Xeron.

“So, you’re Xeron, huh? BK told me all about you… I’m Katharine Alvers, Galaxia’s technical mother, and I guess yours too. But, that would be a bit weird.” She said, making Xeron nod.

“An honor… She has told me about you, and this Black Knight. Though, I wonder which one of you he might be.” Xeron looked around at the group, each giving strange looks to one another. “What? Was it something I said?”

Katharine instantly plugged Galaxia’s ears, the Soul Reaper knowing for a fact the teen was still recovering from such a traumatic incident. Zarrix walked up to Xeron, his hulking figure standing before him. “Father… Is believed to be dead, Xeron. Died during that battle against Darth Various. He was mortally wounded before it all began, and used up every last bit of energy left within him to power an artifact, which allowed us to come help you.”

Xeron just looked up at him, suddenly getting a strange feeling about his response. “I… See, a shame then. Galaxia made him out to be some great person.”

It was Darethel’s turn to respond now. “Agreed, you may have enjoyed his company. I understand that the two of you share quite the similar sense of humor… Though, let us not further this morbid conversation. This is a Welcome Home Party, after all.” He gave a nod, as the Night Raptor returned it. Katharine pulled her fingers from the confused Galaxia’s ears, before things started to kick off.

Though, Xeron noticed something strange about Magic Shield. She was all bubbly, face blushing, and looked like she was on cloud nine. This drew the Night Raptor’s attention, and caused him to walk up to the mare. “Ms. Shield… Are you alright? You seem a bit, high I believe would be the good word for it?” He asked, chuckling a bit but became unsettled when she started to giggle strangely, and lounged to the side, floating on the ground and hearts popping over her head.

“Y-Yeah… Had date… With crush last night…” She answered, in the strangest of ways. Almost like her entire mind was wrapped around something, either that or it has gone haywire. “Was great.”

Darethel was drawn over to Xeron, noticing the strange look he was giving Magic Shield, and came to see if everything was alright. “Uh, Xeron? What’s going on over here?” He asked, noticing Magic Shield’s reaction as well. “Whoa, what is up with her?”

“Don’t know. Maybe we shouldn’t let her have any of the more… Adult drinks?” Xeron said, looking to the Death Knight, who nodded in agreement.

The party was going quite well, many were having fun and one known as “Shadow2777” had far too much to drink and started to act a bit… Weird, even by Xeron’s standards. Now, the Night Raptor was asked to tend to Galaxia for some reason, which he expected that they were preparing a surprise for the two of them. They had poor training in keeping secrets, barely any of them could keep the excitement within them, some shooting Shadow a few glares every time someone mentioned a special guest appearance. The Night Raptor assuming it was some great “author” or a long lost brother of Galaxia, who could have helped with Xeron’s creation.

After around thirty minutes of her showing him round the castle, Katharine soon arrived to bring them back to the main hall, where a stage had been set up. Zarrix sat at the drum set, him and Zu’hal sharing what seemed like friendly banter. Darethel was tuning an electric guitar, adorned with icons befitting a “Death Knight”, while Shadow2777 readied a base guitar. The only spot that was open had been the mic, in which Xeron assumed that the mystery guest was going to appear there in some flashy fashion.

The lights suddenly dimmed, as the ones over the stage grew a bit brighter. They started with a ticking sound, Zarrix tapping the discs around him. Then Darethel and Shadow joined him with their guitars, but Xeron and Galaxia soon had their attention drawn away from the stage… As the shadows around them started to be towards the mic stand. They started to swirl around, like some shadowy vortex of dark energy, every hair on the back of Xeron’s neck started to stand up on their ends. He could feel the massive amount of energy built of within it, whoever this guest was… They had the Night Lord’s attention now.

The energy suddenly exploded, the moment the beats dropped in their note, and a man wearing black armor, a large blade strapped to his back, wearing a black cape appeared! He held the mic within his right hand, cord in the left, before he suddenly yelled out. “Back in Black!” The group suddenly cheered, as Galaxia’s jaw dropped and practically screamed her head off in excitement! The Astartes didn’t know who this person was, but they definitely had her in one heck of an excited state of mind.

I hit the sack
I've been too long I'm glad to be back
Yes, I'm let loose
From the noose
That's kept me hanging about
I've been looking at the sky
'Cause it's gettin' me high
Forget the hearse 'cause I never die
I got nine lives
Cat's eyes
Abusin' every one of them and running wild

Galaxia started to dance with excitement, clapping her hands together, at seeing the black armored man before her. Katharine trying to stifle her laugh, but failed to do so. The teen started to pull on Xeron’s arm, pointing towards the man, looking between them. “X-Xeron! I-I-Its!” She was so excited, the filly couldn’t even get the words out.

Xeron knelt down next to her, looking at the filly, then to the black armored knight, and back to her. “Who? Who is this mortal, Galaxia?” He asked, seeing the wide grin on her muzzle.

“He is no normal mortal, Xeron!” She said, her entire body getting an excited jitter, her hooves stomping on the stone floor in excitement. “Its… Its… Its!”

'Cause I'm back
Yes, I'm back
Well, I'm back
Yes, I'm back
Well, I'm back, back
Well, I'm back in black
Yes, I'm back in black

“DADDY!” She screamed, throwing both hands up into the air like she was actually listening to a live AC/DC concert!

“W-What!?” Xeron said, shocked after being told this whole time that this mysterious father had died nearly two centuries ago. But, as he looked at the black armored knight in front of him, seeing those glowing red eyes wink towards the two of them, as he sang. The Astartes started to make the connections rather quickly. The black armored, the large blade, the powerful aura of sheer shadow energy coming off of him… He sure as hell matched the description everyone was giving him, and Galaxia’s reaction confirmed it.

T-This was… Xeorn’s real… Father!

Back in the back
Of a Cadillac
Number one with a bullet, I'm a power pack
Yes, I'm in a bang
With a gang
They've got to catch me if they want me to hang
'Cause I'm back on the track
And I'm beatin' the flack
Nobody's gonna get me on another rap
So look at me now
I'm just makin' my play
Don't try to push your luck, just get out of my way

The Black Knight danced for a few moments, allowing the group to get a little more electrified about his sudden appearance, only his sons, Katharine, and Shadow; truly knowing who exactly was appearing before them for the little concert. He threw a hand out towards the Soul Reaper and teen mare, whips of shadows wrapping around them and bringing the two on to the stage with him. This opened up for the two to actually join him in a bit of fun, dancing to the beat.

'Cause I'm back
Yes, I'm back
Well, I'm back
Yes, I'm back
Well, I'm back, back
Well, I'm back in black
Yes, I'm back in black

Well, I'm back, yes I'm back
Well, I'm back, yes I'm back
Well, I'm back, back
Well I'm back in black
Yes I'm back in black

Both the Black Knight and Kathrine moved to the side, allowing Galaxia to do her own little dance between them, the black armored figure crossing both arms while holding the mic in his left hand. Katharine crossed one arm under her breast, while propping the other arm with it and placing its hand over her mouth to stifle her laugh. All the while, Galaxia did her best to show off her “moves” between the two, the group cheering her on, those still playing their instruments nodding towards her.

Xeron, on the other hand, just watched from where he was… The Night Raptor suddenly finding his foot tapping with the beat, smiling a bit. Out of nowhere, he started to dance as well. It felt like a spell had overcame his entire body, looking up to see the Black Knight’s gaze aimed towards him, his canted head looking towards Galaxia. He could somehow feel; the Black Knight was smiling behind his helmet.

Once he felt like enough time had passed, and Galaxia had her moment to shine on the stage, the Black Knight continued the song! His two “back up dancers” on both sides of him.

Ho yeah
Oh yeah
Yes I am
Oh yeah, yeah oh yeah
Back in now
Well I'm back, I'm back
Back, (I'm back)
Back, (I'm back)
Back, (I'm back)
Back, (I'm back)
Back
Back in black
Yes I'm back in black
Out of the sight

At that last work, the Black Knight suddenly vanished from sight, within a burst of shadowy mist, dropping the mic where it was. This confused Galaxia and Katharine, along with those around them. Xeron slowly started to look around, tying to help find the missing author… Until a metal finger tapped the top of his head. “Enjoying yourself there, m’boy?” An echoed voice said, making the Night Raptor look up to see the very one they were all looking for… Floating over his head, in a lounging position. “Sure look like you are.”

“Y-You’re the Black Knight?” He simply asked, as the teen mare instantly flew over, and hugged on to the knight so tightly… Xeron swore he saw the armor starting to dent inwards.

“That I am, and I’m back from the dead…. As the song stated, obviously.” He chuckled a bit, patting Galaxia’s head rather affectionately.

Xeron just stuttered, staring up at the rather nonchalant author above him, seeing the shadows all around them helping suspend Black Knight up in the air. “I-I-I have so many questions… So many things to ask, things to know-?”

“And I shall answer them, as you will be staying here, just like Zu’hal and Zarrix do. They had many questions when I finished their stories, as well.” He chuckled a bit, nodding his armored head. “But, how about we save them for later, hm? After all… Its time to roll the credits.” The Black Knight suddenly looked towards you, before giving a wink and the entire story went black. His voice suddenly echoed through the darkness. “Hoped you enjoyed the story! Expect more to come, all in due time.”