Silence engulfed the room as we all stared at Shye. I could see she had worked up a lot of courage to say what she had just said and when I looked at my fellow occupants I saw they were all struggling to take in the information that she presented to us. So, I decided to start us off before anyone said anything stupid.

"Take a seat," I said as I gestured to a chair in the room, which Shye took, while I made one out of shadows for myself. "Ok now please start at the beginning."

"About a few hundred years ago I was living happily with my now former husband. Our home was peaceful and all was right...however as the years went on our love began to dwindle till there was almost nothing left. One time as I was in the market in disguise I saw a crowd had gathered around a young griffioness who was having a tough time understanding our country's currency. Now the reason why the crowd had gathered was because no one has ever seen a griffon before since we're a very isolated nation. In fact, we all thought we caribou were the only sentient creatures on the planet until she showed up," Shye said.

"Makes sense since that also explains why we never heard of you before until a year ago," Twilight interrupted causing some to shush her.

"Go on Shye," I encouraged

"I then saw the griffioness was becoming rather nervous so I removed my disguise and ordered my people to go back to what they were doing before I introduced myself to her and she introduced herself as Pita. She then told me that she was a griffon and that she was here exploring the world. We soon became friends after that. We then had weekly meetings and I discovered we had much in common more than I had with Diann and after a year of friendship I...I came to discover that I loved her and she loved me in turn," Shye said causing a small sound to appear and when I looked at the source I saw it was Cadence who had an embarrassed blush on her face.

"So, you found out you were into girls fine, but what does this have anything to do with Diann?" I asked.

"It was when I came clean and told Diann that I did not love him anymore and that I had fallen for Pita. I thought he would just accept it and move on and find another to love however he became furious and had Pita locked away in the dungeon and forbade me from seeing her. But I wouldn't allow that to stop me so I decided to break her out, however I was caught and imprisoned also and things went downhill from there," Shye said.

"And your saying this happened over 100 years ago?" Vinyl asked.

"Yes, you see when Diann found out what I tried to do he told me he had a dream of him making a vow to our gods. That he would put all mares in their place and that the gods granted him gifts to help achieve this and gave him the title of god king. When that happened, he raped me for days until I conceived eight bucks," Shye said.

"The sons that each rule a country," I said.

"As soon as they were born Diann took them and began turning them into...," Shye began but was struggling to finish.

"It's alright Shye don't think about that. But tell me this why not attack the world immediately? Why wait for so long and how is it that you, Diann and those eight lived for so long?" I asked.

"Diann said he had discovered a ritual in taking years from others and adding it to his own. He even committed that ritual on his sons, myself and Pita saying he wanted us to be there when the world bows to him and see if I still didn't love him. But he needed to convince the kingdom of what he planned to do was right. Slowly he began to turn the populace into what he wished and then he needed to expand his army and that took time also. When they were, ready Blueblood appeared, and told them of Equestria and the other lands. When Diann sent scouts to investigate, stories returned of your king Ash Blade. Many doe, including myself, believed if anyone could save us it was him but when news reached us of his death our hope shattered and Diann saw an opportunity to actually become a god. So he ransacked your kings tomb and drank his blood, turning both him and his sons into what he is now," Shye said causing a few looks of anger to appear on some faces.

"And what of this monstrosity?" Luna asked in slight anger as she pointed to the fake Ash.

"Diann had that and others made to break the hope of those who still had some around the world, making it seem that Ash Blade himself had fallen to Diann's whim," Shye said causing me to stand up and walk to the door.

"Bones?" Nightmare asked.

"I'm going to inform the others of this," I said before I looked at Shye. "Thank you for telling us this Shye it explains a lot. I know it wasn't easy to summon the courage to tell us that, so for that I applaud you," I said before I left.

I walked down the halls to the interrogation rooms and when I entered the viewing area I saw Spike, Mac, Soarin and Comet were here and were looking through the one way window at Rage and the ex-commander. The ladder was hanging from the ceiling by his arms and chains while Rage was using him as a punching bag.

"It's kinda scary how people can be taught stuff like this," Comet said.

"I wouldn't say people are taught," I said startling the group of males.

"Oh Bones it's you we didn't hear you come in," Soarin said as he relaxed from being startled.

"Apologies," I said.

"What was that you said about people not being taught this?" Spike asked.

"Well I guess you can be taught the basics on it. However think of interrogation and torture as an art, how you want to carry it out...well that depends on your imagination I guess," I said before I tapped on the glass grabbing Rage's attention.

Rage then wiped the sweat from his face before he began to leave but not before he sliced a rope that was connected to a wall which dropped the buck to the ground. As Rage came out I walked over to the door and saw him.

"He's a stubborn one. I'll give him that," Rage said.

"Don't worry about it Rage I found out what we needed to know and more," I said.

"So what your saying is that he's useless?" Rage asked causing me to nod. "Gimme a second."

Rage walked back inside while I went to the window and watched Rage grab the buck by the sides of his head and hold him in the air. While the ex-commander struggled to escape Rage's grip, which was futile. Suddenly Rage grew fiery claws from his fingers and pushed the claws on his thumbs into the caribou's eyes causing him to scream in agony before Rage tore his face open, spraying a lot of blood over himself but the males beside me didn't even flinch. Rage left and walked over to us after wiping his face and hands from all the blood on him.

"Now tell me what's going on," Rage said.

---

Two Days Later

---

Breakfast had just finished and I was heading for the market to have a look around. I was wearing a simple T-shirt and jeans with boots all in dark colours and I was standing in the castle foyer admiring the view which I gotta say was breathtaking. The best way to describe it in size would be cavernous, decorated with clouds and golden chandeliers along the ceiling while golds, reds and whites went around the room with a black and white marble tiled floor that was polished to absolute perfection. Trenches of fire where carved into the floors and spiralled up pillars that went along the sides of the room along with doors that led to different parts of the castle and finally, at the back of the foyer, opposite the main entrance doors inside a half dome and cylinder section of the room where sunlight was shining through the dome's windows stood a massive alter. Upon the alter stood a pair of statues one was of a beautiful female angel wearing a stunning dress and a crown and beside her stood a handsome male demon who seemed to be wearing some royal outfit and regalia along with a crown and finally being held between the two was a baby wrapped in cloth leading me to assume that was Ash and his parents.

"Stunning."

I looked at the voice and saw Nightmare looking around the massive room in wonder.

"Indeed...I spent so much time just teleporting or using the airship hanger to leave this place I never took into consideration about what the foyer looks like and I have to say it's not disappointing in the slightest," I said.

"So where exactly are you going Bones?" Nightmare asked.

"The market, I wanted to see how everyone we brought back is adjusting here and also see what's new but what about you?" I asked.

"I was trying to explore this place however a trip to the market seems much like a nicer option...i-if you don't mind the company that is?" Nightmare asked nervously.

"Not a problem in fact some company would be nice," I said.

Nightmare and I then left the castle and stepped out into the cool morning air and down to the market where ponies were going about their business like always. Kids were playing, shop keepers were selling merchandise, if one were to arrive here they wouldn't believe it if they were told that we were at war. I saw Nightmare was also smiling as she watched the ponies going about their daily lives and not being disturbed from her appearance. Suddenly I hear cheering coming off from somewhere in the town.

"Is that cheering?" Nightmare asked who seemed to be searching for the sound.

"I think so...wanna go find out where it's coming from?" I asked causing Nightmare to simply nod.

We made our way through the market till we arrived at a massive spacious area filled with ponies all looking at a small stage with a white sheet as the background and as a cover with a microphone on a stand in the center and finally a small box sitting on the ground in front of the mic.

"Is there some sort of event going on?" I asked.

"Not that I know of," Nightmare said before I turned to a stallion.

"Hey what's going on?" I asked.

"Some kind of singing show. Basically ponies just step on stage for a turn and that box selects a song and shows the lyrics to sing. Once it ends that pony steps off and another steps up and get this the songs are from King Ash Blade's home world," the stallion said.

"Is there a prize?" Nightmare asked.

"I don't know I think this is just for fun...Oh hey seems it's a group this time," the stallion said as he pointed to the stage.

I looked to the stage and saw two mares and two stallions get on the stage both groups seemed to be teenagers. The group then gathered around the mic when suddenly the lights turned on and the music started before the group began to sing.

As the song went on the ponies danced as they sang and I couldn't help but smile and bob my head in time with the beat. I then felt Nightmare's hand brush against mine so I looked down and saw her reaching out for my hand which I grasped before I looked back at the stage. As we continued to watch I took note that Nightmare's fur was extremely soft and when the song ended the group gave a bow and the audience including Nightmare and I cheered.

"Guess we found the source of the cheering," I joked.

"Hey why don't you go up?" Nightmare asked.

"Oh no that ain't happening," I said.

"Pweety pwease?" Nightmare asked giving me the biggest eyes she could muster along with the quivering lip.

"*sigh* Fine but I'll only do it if you go first," I said.

"Hmm very well I suppose those terms are agreeable," Nightmare said before she teleported on stage, selected a song and began to sing.

I was taken by storm when I heard Nightmare sing and I could assume that the audience felt the same. In any case Nightmare could really sing and I, along with everyone, showed it by clapping, cheering or whistling when the song came to an end and Nightmare appeared beside me once more.

"A deal's a deal Bones," Nightmare said.

"Okay, okay just don't expect much I'm not even sure if I can sing," I said.

"Only one way to find out," Nightmare said before I teleported onstage. As I looked out at the spectators I will admit I was a little intimidated.

Suddenly the lights dim till a single spotlight shines down on me and when I look at the box I see a screen big enough for me to read what's on it and as the music begins I take a breath and start to sing.

As I sang to the lyrics the stage exploded with lights and colour but I stayed focus and continued to sing. As the song ended the audience roared in applause so I gave a small bow before I teleported to Nightmare's side.

"Not bad...for a dead guy." Nightmare said with a playful smirk while I just rolled my eyes.

"C'mon let's go see what else is around," I said as we left.

---

Somewhere Close By Third Person P.O.V

---

"You see what I'm talking about, look at them. I mean did you see Nightmare blushing when Bones sang not to mention the whole hand holding thing."

"Okay I'll admit it at first I thought those two being together was weird but after that I gotta say they do seem perfect for each other."

"Ha I knew you'd agree. Now then we just need to figure out how to get them closer."

Hey you two are you done with my sing along machine?"

"Shh keep it down, we're busy trying to figure out how to get Nightmare and Bones together."

"*gaaaasp* Are they in love oh I have to throw a fallen in love party!"

"No not yet!...Unfortunately those two still seem to be in denial we just need to keep an eye on them and wait for the perfect time to make our move."

*POP*

"Make your move on what?"

---

Elsewhere but also not that far away

---

"So it's true our glorious queen has returned to us."

"Indeed but what should we do now?"

"Alert the others now that we know she not a rumour we must make our move and soon."

"Understood...And what of the Diamond Dog he seems close to our queen?"

"Hmm...He must be one of our brothers secretly working for our queen leave him alive for now unless he proves otherwise."

"Very well."

---

The Next Day Bones P.O.V.

---

I was sitting in the dining room waiting for everyone to show up and as I sat I was looking at some of Ash's history to pass the time when suddenly the doors opened and everyone entered.

"You're here early Bones," Faust said when she saw me.

"Yeah I was looking at some of Ash's history," I said as I gestured to the orb.

"Oh yeah what war was it this time?" Spike asked.

"Not a war but a battle in 1527 in Rome. Ash was a member of the Swiss Guard who were fighting against the Habsburg Monastery," I said.

"Swiss Guard huh so Ash once served the Holy See...Man that was a slaughter," Rage said as he sat down.

"What happened?" Rainbow asked as curious as ever.

"Swiss Guard were defeated easily. It was 189 against at least 20'000 all in an effort to buy Pope Clement time to retreat to Castel Sant'Angelo or Castle of the Holy Angel if you prefer," I said.

"May we watch?" Rainbow asked.

"I guess so but be warned Ash dies in this fight," I said before I enlarged the orb to the point we we had a 360 degree view of the battle and that is when I decided to put on some music.

I pointed out Ash to everyone and we all saw he was wearing Swiss Guard clothing and armour and was surprisingly wielding a halberd with a rapier on his hip. I noticed the Swiss Guard appeared to be fighting in a tight packed area of Romes streets filled with all kinds of alleyways and stairs but I doubt the others cared because all eyes were on Ash as he spun around and swung the halberd and took down a row of five enemies before he impaled an enemy on the spike. He then ran forward pushing the enemy off the staircase before he spun around and blocked an attack from another opponent

Ash then backed down the stairs, keeping his gaze firmly locked on the enemy and when Ash's opponent attacked Ash once again impaled his enemy on the spike but lifted him overhead and slammed him into the ground behind him. Suddenly there was a bang which caused Ash to stumble back and collapse and when I looked I saw a man walking down the steps reloading a rifle. However Ash wasn't done yet because he got back up and grabbed the halberd just as the man finished reloading. When he went to aim it again Ash used his weapon to knock it away causing the rifle to go off before he brought the blade down on the gun cutting it in two before he impaled the man in the face with the spike on the back of the halberd and tossed him away. He heaved the blade into another's chest who had just appeared but when Ash went to remove it he discovered it had become stuck. Ash then saw more arrive causing him to abandon the halberd and draw his rapier to fight the enemy. I looked at the others and saw Ash fight with mild curiosity even Nightmare was intrigued I saw Ash had finished off his opponents before he winced in pain and removed his armour. When he did I saw his uniform had a large splotch of red on the right side of his chest and when I looked at his armour I saw the bullet from before went through his armour.

Suddenly I heard crying and I could see Ash could hear it too cause he ran to find the source which was a little boy in the middle of the battle crying his eyes out. Suddenly a pole holding a set of banners begin to collapse on the child but Ash ran into the conflict, grabbed the boy in one arm and moved out of the way just in the nick of time before he ran through the streets and met a woman who reached her arms out to Ash and took the child from him and with a quick thank you she ran off. But before Ash could leave he cried out in pain as an enemy came up behind him and slashed downward at Ash's back with a rapier causing Ash to collapse to his knees while the enemy then walked in front of Ash and prepared to finish him off. But Ash drove his rapier through his enemy's neck and after a few seconds the two collapsed to the ground.

"Coward, attacking someone who has their back turned to you," Nightmare seethed.

"That's a battle for you Nightmare either fight fair or not at all but in the end it's all about survival," Rage said as I ended the spell.

"*ahem* In any case I have something serious I need to talk with you all about," I said causing all eyes to turn towards me. "While Nightmare and I were down in the districts yesterday I saw several ponies had very little food in their stalls and when I asked one he said that no new shipments of food have come in."

"So in short we're going to have a food crises unless something is done? Celestia said.

"No problem we just steal from another supply train and problem solved," Rainbow said.

"I'm afraid that's not going to work Rainbow you see those trains don't have enough to feed this entire kingdom the best it will do is simply delay it," Rage said.

"Rage is right what we need is a more permanent solution," I said.

"Like growing our own food?" Twilight asked.

"Hey yeah mah family and Ah could set up an apple orchid right here. Folks got plenty of tools in that there market we can use but the problem is we need to find ground suitable enough to grow food," Applejack said causing Rage to laugh.

"Prey tell Rage just what is it you find so amusing?" Rarity asked.

"I'm sorry it's just *snicker* Ash had plans to invite the apple family into Aephoceria so they could set up a farm here in case things ever went south for any of them. Ash himself checked the area and he said the ground is just begging to be planted," Rage said causing Applejack's eyes to widen.

"He didn't?" Applejack asked sternly.

"Oh yes...Ash wrote up the deed years ago. Said he was going to give it to you in case the need arose and until it came that patch of land would remain barren to anything," Rage said as he summoned a scroll in a burst of fire and handed it to Applejack who opened it and scanned the contents.

"Consarnit that damn fool why'd he have to go and do such a thing like that for us?" Applejack said in an angry tone while her friends and the royals just smiled.

"I asked him the same thing after I told him what your reaction would be and you know what he said...'I owe that family'," Rage said.

"Dagnabit Ash," Applejack said as she pulled her hat over her face but I could just make out a smile behind her hat.

"Actually I believe Ash organised a place for the rest of you bearers," Rage said rubbing his chin.

"WHAT!" the mane 6 said in sync.

"Yeah a new boutique for you Rarity, a bakery for both the Cake Family and Pinkie. A small nature themed cottage in the lowest district away from all the hustle and bustle of the streets and businesses. Also it's right beside an open area sanctuary perfect for taking care of animals which obviously goes to Fluttershy. A cloud house that Ash put together for you Rainbow which is close to the city's sports stadium and finally a library not too far from the castle," Rage said as he gestured to each gobsmacked mare.

"He did all that...for us," Rarity asked in shock.

"And you're all surprised because?" Celestia asked with a smile.

"Oh but Rainbow Ash said that you're going to need to fill out the interior to your own specifications but he left the structure to you," Rage said.

"Sweet I can't get comfortable unless the house was designed by me," Rainbow said with a fist pump.

"So we have farmers, land and tools. Still need plant seeds and lumber for a barn to make storage," I said.

"I believe we can get both items in Appaloosa," Mac said.

"Hey yeah and most of our family live there too," Applejack said.

"Well then let's get going already," Rainbow said.

"And what makes you think you're coming along?" I asked.

"Now hold on a second you can't just bench us like that," Rainbow said as she flew in my face.

"Need I remind you that you haven't finished your training?" I asked.

"Well just call it learning experience gotta know how good our fights are right?" Rainbow asked causing the bearers to nod.

"Plus you're gonna need me and Mac over there to get everypony over there to cooperate with us and prove we're friends," Applejack said.

"You know I've also been itching to get some payback myself so I believe I'll come with you," Luna said.

"Same here," Faust said as she stood up along with the remaining royal sisters plus Discord, Eris, Cadence and Shining Armour.

"Whoa hold on look I get you guys want vengeance but three of you seem to forget that you have three very powerful babies here that need attention," Rage said as he gestured to Midnight, Loki and Flurry Heart who were playing in the corner.

"Hm how about you two take care of them?" Eris suggested gesturing to both Nightmare and me.

"HUH?!" Everyone in the room screamed even the three foals seemed shocked at the suggestion.

"Uh...what?" I asked.

"You want us t...to...take care...of your foals?" Nightmare asked with extreme hesitance.

"Hm you know that's not a bad thought Eris," Celestia said.

"Wait what?" I asked in shock.

"But princess are you sure that's wise this is my niece we're talking about," Twilight said worry clear in her voice.

"I have no objections with it," Cadence said.

"HEY!" I shouted getting everyone's attention. "Just what makes it okay for you lot to be deciding for me and Nightmare here. I mean seriously do either of us look like a babysitter?"

"No but you're both the best option we've got," Luna said.

"And why is that?" I asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Well the foals seem to have taken a liking to you two and since Nightmare and myself are similar in how we behave little Midnight won't even know the difference," Luna said.

"Also you seem to be forgetting that time when you calmed down those three just by looking at them," Cadence said with a smug grin.

"Can't you get someone else like the royals from Elisa's world?" I asked.

"They're covering for us in court today," Celestia said.

"And the Immortals would never dare let us go into such a hostile area without them being there," Dream Catcher said.

"And I just texted the others asking them to come along," Rainbow said as she closed her phone.

"I hope you enjoy running laps Rainbow," I said with a growl while she just smugly smiled.

"Also we aren't exactly used to the idea of two caribou walking around the castle even though you say they're clean and have a pair of guardians with them it will still take time to trust them. We would prefer it if somepony, say like you two, were watching over the foals since neither of you are very fond of alowing any children to be harmed you'd both be perfect," Faust said.

"Well she's got us there but we know nothing of taking care of foals," Nightmare said

"Don't worry you two will do fine besides we'll write down some things in case you need some assistance in taking care of them," Cadence said causing both Nightmare and I to look at each other with a look that said it all 'This wasn't going to end well.'

---

An Hour Later Airship Dock

---

"-and here's Flurry's favourite toy Wammy. If she starts throwing a fit just give this to her and she'll calm down," Cadence said as she handed me a stuffed snail toy after the three mothers had finished cramming an agonising amount of information into my head.

"Wammy got it," I said as I placed the snail on a mountain of baby items.

"Bones, Nightmare we really appreciate this," Luna said.

"Well we weren't exactly given a fair vote in this," Nightmare said.

"Look at it this way you two this shows how much trust we have in you," Eris said.

"Hey are you three coming or what?" Rage called from the ship.

With one last goodbye kiss to their foals Eris, Cadence and Luna left for the ship.

"Well how do you suppose we handle things now?" Nightmare asked.

"You do know I'm probably the last guy you should be asking that right" I said.

"I know but it's just that...I'm scared of taking care of foals. I'm worried they'll be terrified of me," Nightmare said.

"Hey if there's anything they should be scared of it's me but it's like Luna said they seem to of taken a liking to us," I said.

"I guess you're right," Nightmare said with a smile.

"Alright now that that's settled what do you think you foals want to do first?" I asked as I looked at the foals only to see that they were gone. "Oh no."

"Where could they have gone they were right here!" Nightmare said starting to panic.

"Calm down listen first thing is to not panic we'll split up and look for them," I said as I placed a hand on Nightmare's shoulder calming her before she took a breath and gave a nod and left while I teleported back inside the castle.

Suddenly I heard the sound of cheering echoing through the hallways and was getting closer when suddenly I saw the CMC were riding a food cart and the foals were on the cart as well. So I reached out with my magic and grabbed the group of kids and let the trolley crash into a wall before I sat the giggling babies on the ground along with the dizzy group of foals.

"You lot alright?" I asked the CMC.

"We're fine but that was crazy. One minute we're walking through town next thing we know were on that trolley with these three," Pip said as he held up Midnight.

Suddenly Nightmare appeared behind the foals and breaths out a sigh of relief "Phew they're safe I'm glad you found them Bones," Nightmare said.

"Wait what's going on?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"Oh both Nightmare and I were tasked with watching these three while they were in Appaloosa for some seeds," I said

"Hey maybe our sisters are going to rescue some of our family," Apple Boom said.

"Hey yeah," Sweetie Belle agreed.

"I wish they brought us along we could have been a big help," Scootaloo said.

"I think it's best you didn't after all looking after you lot and completing the task they needed to do may have been difficult for them," I said.

"We ain't so short as to not take care of ourselves," Scootaloo said with a huff.

"I think what Bones means is that you should look at it from their perspective. If you did go then either your parents or siblings would constantly worried about you and that could lead them to harm because they were worrying about you," Nightmare said.

"Oh I guess we didn't think about that," Scootaloo said.

"Hey guys maybe you can help us with something," I said.

"What is it?" Rumble asked.

"Well both Nightmare and I have never taken care of foals before and we were wondering if you could help us," I said as I gestured to the youngest three who were playing with Nightmare's tail.

"Sure thing we'd love to help cause if I was able to take care of Midnight for two years I can certainly do it for a day," Pip said causing the rest to nod in agreement.

"Thank you all," Nightmare said with a thankful smile.

"So what's first?" I asked only to receive a growl from behind Nightmare and I saw three foals holding their stomach's with discomfort. "I guess that answers that question."

---

10 Minutes Later Castle Dining Room

---

"When Cadence said mashed peas were Flurry's favourite I don't remember her saying they were her favourite thing to decorate walls with," I said just before I dodged another green projectile that ended up splatting onto a wall.

"Speak for yourself Bones at least you aren't buried in a mountain of mashed pumpkin," Nightmare said her body minus her head had been covered in mashed pumpkin and Loki was happily eating away at it.

"Hey Midnight here comes the air plane,"

I then looked at the rest of the CMC and saw Midnight was eating his food calmly and when I looked at Pip I saw he was making plane noises as he swerved the spoon with his meal on it in the air as if it were a plane before he brought it towards Midnight who leaned forward and accepted the food.

"I wonder if that world work on Flurry?" I thought as I grabbed the spoon and scooped up some mashed peas from the jar. "Flurry Heart here comes the air plane."

Flurry Heart giggled as I made the sounds of a plane and swerved the spoon through the air with my magic and when I brought it close to her she opened her mouth and accepted the food and I did this till she finished the jar.

"How did you do that?" Nightmare asked when she saw what I did.

"I learned it from them," I said as I pointed to the CMC.

"It's actually a trick Pip learned from Uncle Ash when Midnight didn't want to eat," Rumble said.

"Hey how about we go watch a movie now?" Scootaloo suggested.

"Yeah," the CMC cheered.

"You guys go ahead I just gotta help Nightmare out of this mess," I said as I handed Flurry over to Sweetie Bell while Rumble grabbed Loki and left.

I then used my magic to help Nightmare clean herself up before we left for the movie lounge and when we arrived I looked around and saw a homey room with faded white walls and wooden posts in the corner and wooden lower wall and white carpet with couches and chairs all facing a massive flat screen TV. Finally off to the side was a massive bookcase with a massive collection of movies on the shelves. I then looked at the foals and saw the two colts were arguing over something while the fillies watched with the expression of boredom on their faces.

"And I'm telling you that we should watch Pirates of the Caribbean," Pip said.

"And I'm telling you we should watch Zathura," Rumble argued.

"What's going on?" I asked the fillies

"They're arguing of what we should watch," Apple Bloom said.

I then looked at the two colts and I then noticed Midnight spread his wings and fly over to the bookcase and sit in front of a small cupboard door.

"Say what's in there?" I asked as I pointed to the door.

"Hm oh just some foal videos that Dad brought from earth for Midnight," Pip said.

"Well in my opinion I think it's best we let the foals pick after all we can't watch anything too mature for them," I said causing the two colts to agree.

I then walked over to the cupboard and opened it and I saw Midnight reach for one so I pulled it out and saw it was a show called 'The Tigger Movie' and on the front cover was some kind of tiger along with a blue donkey, a piglet, a joey (baby kangaroo) and a yellow bear all dressed up as tigers.

"What manner of entertainment is this?" I thought as I stood up.

"That one?" Pip asked.

"Something wrong with it?" I asked.

"Well no not exactly it's just...Dad was with us when we last watched it," Pip said.

"I see...Well Midnight asked to watch this so I guess we're watching it," I said.

"Eugh more sappy stuff," Scootaloo complained.

"C'mon Scoots It'll be fun," Sweetie Belle said.

"No thanks nothing against you all but this movie just ain't my style," Scootaloo said.

"Mine either I'm out," Rumble said as the two got off the couch.

"And where're you two going?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Maybe explore that ship in the field maybe even find something cool," Scootaloo said.

"And just what makes you think you're just allowed to waltz on in there?" I asked.

"Well...uh," Scootaloo said nervously.

"You both can go inside on the condition an adult goes with you just so no one blows us all to kingdom come," I said.

"Wait it can do that?" Rumble asked.

"Mm-hm," I nodded.

"Well then will you come?" Scootaloo asked.

"Huh?" I asked.

"You seem to know about the ship better then anyone here so why don't you come along?" Scootaloo said causing me to look at Nightmare.

"Go ahead I can keep watch on this lot till you get back," Nightmare said.

"Very well then...alright you two let's go," I said before I made a doorway and led the foals through it and into Elisa and Evo's ship.

The two foals became ecstatic and began running around looking at everything their eyes could take in. They asked me many questions about the ship so I either told them what I knew or shrugged at the question till we arrived at the cryo bay.

"Whoa where are we?" Rumble asked.

"The cryo bay basically these tubes put you in a deep sleep and freeze you're body to a point where you don't age at all till you're reawakened," I said as I tapped on an empty pod.

"So you could be asleep for over 1000 years and you wouldn't age at all?" Scootaloo asked.

"Pretty much," I said with a shrug.

"Whoa," the two said.

"So whose in these ones?" Rumble asked as he gestured to six closed pods with fogged windows.

"No clue but they must be important if they're in those things now let's be off and-," I started but was interrupted when I heard a beep come from behind me and when I looked I saw Scootaloo with a hand on a terminal. "What the hay happened to don't touch anything without asking!?"

Scootaloo jumped back from my shout and looked at me with a nervous yet guilty smile. Suddenly I hear a hiss of air come from the six tubes and the foals flee behind me in terror while I gripped Hingure but didn't draw her. The pods opened causing smoke to fog the area then suddenly I hear the sound of feminine moans and once the smoke clears away I saw the mane 6 who looked like they were waking up informing me that this group was most likely from Elisa's world.

"Uh my head, it feels like I had too much hard cider," Rainbow Dash groaned as she gripped her head.

"Girls you all there?" Twilight asked.

"Ah'm here," Applejack said.

"Ohhh same," Rarity said as she stretched herself out.

"I'm okay," Fluttershy said meekly.

"Pinkie...Pinkie?" Twilight asked only to receive a snore from the crazy pink party pony who was still asleep. "Pinkie now's not the time to be napping.

"Huh...who oh morning already," Pinkie asked as she awoke.

"Where are we?" Applejack asked as she rubbed her eyes.

"I believe I can answer that," I said causing the group of mare's eyes to focus on me.

"Who in Tartarus are you?" Rainbow asked getting ready for a fight.

"Take it easy Rainbow Dash, I'm not you're enemy," I said.

"Rainbow Dash?" Scootaloo asked as she peeked out from behind me.

"Squirt you're okay!" Rainbow shouted as she went to rush forward but I stood in her way.

"Miss Dash I regret to tell you that this Scootaloo is not the one you know?" I said as I held my hand out to stop Rainbow from getting closer.

"What?...You got a screw loose or something pal that's Scootaloo she's my biggest fan," Rainbow said.

"In your world perhaps but in this world she's the adopted little sister of this world's Rainbow Dash," I said earning confused looks from everyone but Dash's face had one of shock.

"Little...sister?" Dash asked.

"Wait a second, this world?" Twilight asked.

"Listen I know this may come as a shock to all of you and I'm sorry to be the one to break this to you but the world you six knew is dead and gone and all that is left is but a barren wasteland of magic radiation," I said causing looks of shock to appear on everyone's faces.

"But how did that happen?" Rarity asked.

"About two hundred years ago when Elisa Smith and Evan returned to your world bringing along both Ash Blade and Burning Rage the four stormed Canterlot leaving a mass body count in their wake. They brought down Diann and rescued you six and the Princesses however things went to hell when the zebra's launched magic imbued nukes that came down and wiped out Equestria turning it into a wasteland. However right after Elisa Smith sent Ash Blade and Burning Rage back to their world Elisa placed you, the princesses and much of Equestria's population into secret underground bunkers she called Vaults where I believe many went under cryo freezing much like you six for over 200 years," I said.

"200 hundred years," Twilight said as she collapsed to her knees while everyone looked mortified.

"So...everyone we knew is...gone?" Fluttershy asked with tears in her eyes.

"I'm not sure but it is possible that they were also placed in cryo sleep like you all were but are yet to awaken," I said offering them hope.

"Wait half a minute you didn't answer my question what do you mean this world?" Twilight asked.

"Ah yes I apologise, anyway the world where you all are at right now is the one where Ash Blade and Burning Rage came from," I said.

"So...that handsome man in that stunning yet very heavy armour from Canterlot who helped save us...this is the planet he came from?" Rarity asked.

"Universe more like it," I said.

"Hey don't go saying anything like that about Uncle Ash!" Rumble shouted angrily.

"Oh one moment," I said as I turned to the foals. "Listen guys do you mind if you head back cause I'm gonna be awhile filling in this group and showing them around, please?"

"But we can help," Scootaloo said.

"I appreciate that Scootaloo but something tells me that Nightmare's going to need more help then I do...you both know how much trouble those foals can cause," I said.

"Alright Bones," the two said.

"There's a good colt and filly and once I'm done I'll get you and the others something sweet kay?" I asked.

"Deal!" the two said before I made a doorway and let them go through before I made it disappear.

"Sorry about that," I said as I turned back to the mares. "Now as I was saying this is the universe that Ash and Rage came from, same planet as yours just a different reality."

"That colt just called him Uncle Ash are they related somehow?" Applejack asked.

"Not by blood I think it's more like bond but anyway were was I?" I asked.

"You were telling us where we were but I was about to ask you why we are here?" Twilight asked.

"Ah right well the reason you're here is because Elisa wanted to keep you safe for you see after the nukes came down some of the caribou population survived and began raiding Vaults and of all the Vaults yours was the most sought after," I said causing the mares looks to shift to disgust. "Anyway that is when both Rage and I arrived at your world. We came looking for both Elisa and Evan and after some...well a disagreement in the zebra kingdom we told Elisa that this world had fallen siege to caribou from this world for the past two years."

"Bastards are all the same no matter what world your in," Rainbow spat.

"Anyway as a way of keeping you all safe Elisa brought you here with him," I said.

"Well that's all well and good but may I enquire as to where in Equestria are we and what is you're name?" Rarity asked.

"Oh permit me but my name is Bones it is a temporary name till I regain my memories," I said with a short bow.

"Oh you poor thing," Fluttershy said.

"Your concern is appreciated but now if you ladies would kindly follow me I will show you where we are," I said as I created a doorway for us to leave the ship before I walked through.

Once I exited the doorway I saw I was standing in the field between the city and the forest and I was facing the forest so I walked to the side and looked at the door. I watched as the others came through before I made the door disappear as the group walked behind me.

"So we go into the forest now?" Pinkie asked.

"Sweet Celestia no I refuse to get my hooves dirty," Rarity said with a huff.

I then coughed into my fist gaining the six's attention before I gestured to the kingdom causing everyone's eyes to widen to the size of dinner plates while Rarity started stuttering gibberish.

"Is...is...is that...this worlds...Canterlot?" Twilight asked.

"Pfft in your dreams this is Aephoceria the kingdom of the Demonic Angels and was Ash's birthright," I said.

"Whoo wee that there is one heck of a castle," Applejack said.

"No kidding that place is enormous," Rainbow said.

"It's so lovely," Fluttershy said.

"Oooo I can't wait to look around," Pinkie said.

"And this place is older then the princesses themselves," I said wowing the six.

"It must have been made by gods," Rarity said.

"Well actually it was made by Angels and Demons but never mind that, c'mon I'll show you the city," I said as I teleported everyone to the front gates and led them through the streets.

"Uh excuse me Bones," Twilight spoke after awhile of walking.

"Yes miss Twilight?" I asked.

"I was just wondering but what's that shrine those Zebra are praying to, for Celestia?" Twilight ashed as she pointed at one of the shrines dedicated to Ash and it had four Zebras on their knees praying to it.

"No not to Celestia or the other princesses those shrines are dedicated to Ash," I said.

"Why him?" Pinkie asked.

"Well...three years ago there was a massive battle that was said to split the sky and ground. It became the most intense battle the world had ever seen," I said.

"And which country was Equestria fighting against?" Rainbow asked.

"Not a country miss Dash, demons. It was a battle that involved every single country in the world standing against the demons of Tartarus led by the Demon King Heartless who happened to be Ash's clone brother," I said.

"Cloned how?" Twilight asked in interest.

"I'm not sure myself miss Sparkle. All I know is that Heartless is a clone of Ash but anyway during the battle Ash and Heartless duelled and from what I've been told it was one hell of a sight. However to end the battle Ash had to make a great sacrifice, in order to kill Heartless he had to surrender his own soul," I said causing a few of the girls to gasp. "Yeah but Ash gave his life that day for the worlds safety and because of his actions during his time in Equestria he united the nations like they had never been united before and during the battle he demonstrated great power which caused everyone to start praising him as a god."

"So those shrines are dedicated to Ash then," Twilight said.

"Indeed but I need to warn you of somethings," I said.

"Like what?" Rainbow asked.

"Well...The death of Ash caused a worldwide stir and those closest to him took it harder then anyone else did and things only got worse when the caribou showed up.So I recommend you don't bring this topic up lightly," I said.

"Well considering what I've seen so far that may be a good idea," Twilight said.

"You said the caribou made things worse about Ash...What happened?" Rainbow asked.

"Well after Ash's death a tomb was built to honour him and the soldiers that died in that battle and items that belonged to Ash, important relics I guess, were also placed in the tomb. But the tomb was plundered by the caribou who took everything inside that belonged to Ash including Ash's body and to add salt to the wound when the caribou came claiming to be friends they revealed their true intentions and presented Ash's body like a trophy. We discovered that they drank his blood which granted them the same powers Ash contained," I said. repulsing the girls.

"Land snakes...That just disgusting," Applejack said resisting the urge to barf.

"Those sick unfeeling monsters," Rarity said.

"Believe me I know and from what I've been told Ash's friends were beyond hatred. Rage became so angry the very fire he controls melted half of Canterlot," I said.

"Damn that would be a sight to see," Rainbow said as she folded her arms across her chest.

"Indeed...Ah we're here," I said as I gestured to the massive castle doors before us.

"We're going into the castle!" Rarity exclaimed.

"Well yeah where else would your princesses and Gleaming Shield be?" I asked.

"Wait our princesses and my sister are here!?" Twilight shouted.

"Oh uh I guess I forgot to mention that part," I said as I rubbed the back of my head.

We walked up to the doors and the flame guardians at the door stood at attention and the girls became greatly fascinated with them. They opened the door revealing the castle lobby causing the girls eyes to go wide once more.

"There are no words," Rarity said in awe.

"Who are they?" Twilight asked gazing at the statue.

"Oh oh a guessing game," Pinkie said excitedly.

"Those are Ash's parents King Ronsihr, a Demon, and Queen Agla ,an Angel, and in their arms little Ash Blade,"

"Oh he's so cute," Fluttershy cooed.

"C'mon more to see not a lot of time to do it in," I said as I led the group into a corridor.

I led the group around the castle telling of the different rooms but I had to drag Twilight away by the tail when we came to the door that leads to the library.

"In here is the movie lounge speaking of I need to check up on some foals I'm supposed to be babysitting," I said as I went to open the door.

"A Diamond Dog...babysitting?" Rarity asked with scepticism.

"For the record Miss Rarity I'm not a dog...I'm a wolf don't confuse the two cause it's insulting," I said as I got close to her and growled.

"M-my apologises," Rarity said nervously.

I opened the door and looked inside but immediately I felt that something was wrong. I saw the movie was still running yet most of the CMC were asleep however the foals, Pip and Nightmare were missing and when I sniffed the air I could smell chemicals in the air. I immediately rushed in and checked those that were still here and heard all of them were still breathing causing me to let out a breath of relief before I levitated them out of the room for fresh air. I smelt the air again and detected three new scents that I didn't recognize which means someone else was here and most likely kidnapped the missing group. With all the facts gathered I left the room.

"Bone's what's happening?" Twilight asked when I exited the room but instead of answering I ran down the hall following the scents.

I then ran down the hallway and found a pair of guardians.

"You two sound the alarm! The royal foals and Nightmare have been kidnapped! I want this place locked down now, no one get's in or out," I said.

The guardians immediately ran past me down the hallways while I ran ahead still following the scent.

"Bones what's going on?" Twilight asked as she ran to keep up with me.

"The royal foals have been abducted along with Nightmare," I said without looking at her.

"Nightmare as in Nightmare Moon?" Rainbow asked.

"I know what you're thinking but it's not her she's been reformed and is trusted enough by Luna to take care of her kids," I said.

"Wait your Luna has kids?" Rarity asked.

"Well whoever took them is gonna get one hell of a kick out of me," Applejack said.

"Well I'm gonna do a lot worse I can promise you that," I said with a growl.

I kept following the scent and soon sirens went off within the castle. I felt insanely strong magic barriers going up around the walls meaning it was impossible to break or teleport through the walls. I then noticed the scent was getting stronger meaning I was getting closer. I then ran around the corner and saw three cloaked figures running down the hall and I could smell the scent coming from them so I then teleported in front of the three and drew Hingure.

"What the Tartarus!" one yelled.

"Other way!" another yelled.

However the mane six and a squad of guardians blocked their path. The three then turned back to me but a squad of royal guards led by the immortals came up behind me and pointed their weapons at the three.

"There's no way out you three so hand over the foals and Nightmare and I may just spare you," I said.

One of the figures then tried to blast a hole through the window however the barrier sent the blast back to the figures horn earning a yelp from the figure.

"I'm not gonna ask again boys," I threatened.

"Back off!" one figure shouted as he set aside his cloak to reveal a scared Flurry Heart and in his other hand was a dagger. "Or the foal dies!"

I saw the other figures reveal the other foals and saw they were just as scared. I could feel the guards behind me and the six mares were getting nervous but I kept my composure.

"Just what exactly makes you think you'll get away with this, just what is it all for?" I asked.

"We are here for our true queen, our mistress Nightmare Moon. For too long she had been shadowed by those...false princesses, no longer," the figure said.

"If you were here for Nightmare then where is she and why take the foals?" I asked.

"Our mistress is here," the figure said as he levitated a small ball out from under his robes and inside was a swirling purple mas of smoke and stars pounding angrily on the inside of the ball. "And as for the two colts they are of Luna's blood technically making them of our mistress's blood also and as for the other two, they'll make perfect hostages and if they survive this they'll be perfect soldiers."

"Why put Nightmare in a ball like that I thought you served her not imprisoned her," I said.

"Ah yes you see our queen appears to be under some sort of enchantment claiming that everypony will die under her glorious eternal night. We intend to fix that now step aside or else," the figure said, bringing the blade closer to Flurry causing everyone to tense up

I stayed still for a few moments staring into the figure's eyes before I slashed the air with Hingure three times before I began to slowly sheath Hingure much to everyone's except the figure's surprise.

"Sheathing technique," I started.

"What?" the figure asked.

"Phantom Scalpel," I said as I fully sheathed Hingure.

The three figures then collapsed to the ground causing everyone to stare in shock.

"What the devil!?" a figure shouted in shock.

"I simply severed the tendons in your limbs you three won't be moving till those heal," I said as I walked towards the three and levitated the foals and Nightmare away from them before I broke the ball and freed Nightmare."Look out!"

I saw one of the figures levitated a gun out from his cloak and aimed it at the foals. I then stepped in front of the foals and had my back to the gun and let the figure unload the magazine into my back. Once that was done I saw the foals were looking at me in fright.

"Hey you guys where're those smiles I love to see" I asked with a smile of my own causing the three younger ones to smile but Pip was still nervous. "There they are," I said before I looked at the shocked figure. "You're gonna shoot a group of kids?" I asked causing the figure to spit on the ground "You sick bastard...you lot are not gonna want to see this," I said as I levitated the foals over to Elisa's mane 6 and gestured for Nightmare to go with them which she nodded and left with the mares and foals.

I then grabbed the figure by the hood and made sure I grabbed his mane before I yanked him onto his knees. I drew Hingure before I drove her blade downward into the figures back as if I was inserting a new spine. Once I made it to the guard I tore the blade through the figure, cutting open his back before I wiped my hand across Hingure's blade cleaning off any blood.

"Get'em to lock up, do what you will with the body," I said as I sheathed Hingure and began to walk away.

Once I caught up with the mares I saw the foals were awake and while Elisa's mane 6 were talking to the princesses and Gleaming Shield, who must have been caught up in the lock down and they must have come looking for what caused it.

"Ah there you are Bones," Tia greeted as I approached.

"Dude that was totally awesome you just slashed the air and boom took down three guys as if they were nothing," Rainbow cheered as she flew above the group.

"I bet you'd change your tune once you know the other part of my identity," I said casually.

"What makes you say that sugarcube?" Applejack asked.

"Bones here is a wraith," Apple Bloom said causing the mares to let out a yelp and back away as if I was diseased much to Nightmare's annoyance.

"My name is Bones and I am the Hand of The Reaper," I said with a bow.

"Now now girls I can vouch that Bones is here to help this world against Diann and both he and Nightmare Moon here have been through enough. As it is from many in this world and have worked hard to gain their trust," Celestia said.

"Wait...seriously you're a wraith?" Rainbow asked.

"There a problem?" I asked.

"It's just...you aren't what I was expecting," Rainbow said.

"Would you prefer I looked like...This?" I asked as I stepped back and changed into my true form startling the group.

"No...no stay as wolf," Rainbow said clearly terrified of my form so I did as requested.

"Why are you here?" Twilight asked.

"I have my reasons but if you'll excuse me all that running around has made me tiered, I'm gonna find a nice sunny patch of grass and catch some Z's later," I said before I left.

---

One Hour Later Castle Gardens Third Person P.O.V.

---

The three youngest foals were flying around Nightmare as she walked through the gardens. The three were giggling as they played tag with each other while Nightmare watched with a smile. Suddenly Flurry flew before Nightmare and booped her on the nose implying she was it.

"Oh I'm gonna get you now," Nightmare said with a grin before she took off after the foal.

The group flew about the gardens, the foals hiding where they could and Nightmare searching every nook and cranny for the foals. She eventually spotted Midnight trying to find a hiding place but Midnight also saw Nightmare.

"You're mine now little one," Nightmare said with a grin as she flew towards the child.

Midnight then flew off in a random direction but Nightmare was close behind and when Midnight flew through spaces too small for Nightmare to pass she turned herself into smoke before she turned back to normal and continued the chase. Once she was close enough she gently grabbed Midnight and landed on the ground before she lifted Midnight's shirt slightly and blew a raspberry on the young one's exposed stomach causing him to giggle uncontrollably in delight. As Midnight's laughter died down Flurry and Loki flew over to the two.

"So what do you three all feel like doing now?" Nightmare asked and all three of the foals responded by letting out a large yawn. "I guess that means it's time for a nap."

Nightmare then levitated Flurry and Loki into her arms and just as she was about to leave the sound of snoring entered her ear. Curious she followed the sound till she saw a patch of grass surrounded by trees with sunlight shining on it from a large hole in the canopy and laying down on his back with his hands resting on his chest was Bones, sleeping soundly.

"Guess he found that napping spot best we leave before we wake him," Nightmare thought but as she went to turn away the foals flew out of Nightmare's arms and layed themselves on parts of Bone's body. Loki curled on Bone's tail, Flurry curled up on Bone's stomach while Midnight used his magic to lift Bone's arm before he crawled under it and placed the arm over him like a blanket. "Well it does look comfortable," Nightmare thought before she lay beside Bones and rested her head in the crook of Bone's neck. "It's hard to imagine him as a wraith when he looks so peaceful. The warmth of his body, his calm breathing makes him seem more...alive," Nightmare thought before she let sleep take her.

---

Hours Later

---

"I leave my sons alone for a day and what happens, trouble lingers in the area ," Luna moaned as she Cadence and Eris rushed down the hallways looking for their foals.

"Also the fact we have another set of bearers is surprising. Can only imagine the day both Bones and Nightmare had especially after what Elisa's group had told us with those three stallions," Cadence said.

"I'm more concerned about what Rage is going to do to them. He looked as mad as when we first discovered what the caribou did to Ash," Eris said.

The three mothers then entered the gardens after being told by one of the castle guards that Nightmare and the foals had entered the garden but were yet to come out. When the three found them they couldn't help but smile and coo at the sight of Bones, Nightmare and the foals all snuggled together on the grass. Before they left so they could leave the group in peace Cadence took a photo on her phone so she could show the others.

Next Chapter: Chapter 22 Uncovering the Past Estimated time remaining: 30 Hours, 59 Minutes