7:30am Aephoceria Master Bedroom

---

I woke up with a pleasant smile on my face as I noticed sunlight drifting in across the room, thankfully avoiding my eyesight, before I looked and saw both Moon and Luna were comfortably snuggled up against my sides with smiles on their faces. It seemed they were intending to pin me down but I had no reservations at the time so I remained in the bed and pulled the two beautiful mares closer to me. I lay there enjoying their company till they began to stir.

"Good morning," Luna smiled as she gave me a kiss before she nuzzled my chest.

"Hello you two, sleep well?" I asked.

"Most pleasantly," Moon said before she kissed my neck and nuzzled it.

"That's good since today is going to be busy," I said.

"With what?" Moon asked.

"Winter Wrap Up," I said.

"I see," Moon said as she plopped back onto the bed with a groan.

"What's the matter?" I asked.

"Day's will begin to get longer from here on," Moon groaned.

"Aw, is someone still sour about the whole ponies play in the day and ignore the night?" Luna teased.

"You and I both know I prefer my nights," Moon grumbled.

"Okay that's enough picking on Moon. Regardless I need to get up so I can get some breakfast and see to it our guests are settling in nicely. Also I promised to tell a story so I need to get on to that," I said as I sat up.

*yawns* "You go ahead, this day always makes me sleepy so I'm gonna get some more sleep," Luna said.

"Indeed," Moon said as she pulled the covers over herself till it reached her neck.

"Suit yourselves, I'll see you both later," I said as I kissed the two on the forehead and become a cloud of smoke. I slipped out of the bed before solidifying once I was at the dresser that held my clothes.

I decided to have a shower in our personal bathroom before I got changed out of my pyjamas and left for the dining room but not before stopping by the foals rooms and waking them up for Winter Wrap Up. I then led them all to the dining room where I saw Rage, Elisa, Evan, the mane six and seven along with Comet, Mac, the royal family, my friends from earth and finally the rulers I rescued all sitting down eating.

"Good morning everyone, I see you all got an early start today," I greeted as I sat down and ordered some cereal.

"Yeah, we have egghead over here to thank for that," Rainbow grumbled.

"Where's Spike, Nocturnal and the rest of the guys?" I asked.

"Uh, the guys were up late for their guys night playing Ogres and Oubliettes. They were planing on inviting you but you all left in a hurry with us to help out Celaeno and the Hippogriffs," Twilight said.

"It's cool, I probably wouldn't have attended anyway I never played games like that when I was a kid," I said.

"Seriously?" Shining asked completely dumbstruck causing me to nod. "Dude you don't know what your missing."

"Now why would I want to sit at a table for what may be hours imagining the scenario of a quest when the real thing is much more exciting," I said.

"True that," Elisa, Evan and Rage said as they nodded in agreement.

"But it is also dangerous," Chrysalis pointed out.

"Yeah but that's half the fun of it," Rage said with a grin.

"You guys are weird," Shining said.

"You would know, after all we've been friends for, what...six years now?" Rage said.

"Wow has it been that long?" Rainbow asked.

"Time flies," I said before I took a gulp of orange juice.

Suddenly I felt a subtle pulse of demonic energy run through my body causing me to pause and look at the others and saw they felt nothing. Suddenly I felt another pulse and it felt stronger then the last and it felt like it was pulling me in a direction.

"Hey...Ash!"

"Huh wha-what's going on?" I asked startled from my trance.

"You going deaf, I called your name out six times now," Rage said.

"Sorry my mind was on something else," I said as I rubbed my head. "What was it you wanted?"

"I was gonna ask when were you gonna tell us your story about what happened when you died," Rage said.

"Oh yeah, I actually want everyone to be awake and with me when I tell it. So maybe at a later date," I said.

"Fair enough," Rage said.

"Uh excuse me but there's something I need to take care of you'll have to excuse me," I said as I stood up.

"Is it serious?" Faust asked.

"Not sure but I do know that it requires my immediate attention, please excuse me," I said as I got up and made my way to the doors as they were opened and then closed behind me.

With that done I leaned against the wall for support as the pulses got stronger and stronger. I felt something tearing at my nerves making me want to scream but I held it in before the feeling dulled to a dull throb but the pull was still there. I followed the tugging feeling down the hallways and as I neared the source I could hear the clanking of metal against metal and saw a pair of guards run past the hallway I was in. So speeding up my walk to a jog I quickly reached the intersection and peeked around the corner and my eyes widened in shock at what I saw.

There were about ten guardians and ten regular guards. Half of the group was aiming their weapons at a hellish rift that was in the wall and on the other side of that rift was a river full of blood. I saw souls trying to fight their way through but were being held back by the guardians meanwhile the other ten were surrounding a figure wearing a black cape with bit's of orange on it and black armor. The figure also had blonde hair tied into three braids going down along their back from inside their helmet. The figure was also wielding a customised longsword with the blade belonging to an Argon sword while the guard belonged to a Magnus and the hilt was from a Garian. The figure then turned around and I saw a very familiar and terrifying face plate causing me to quickly duck behind the corner and process what and who I just saw.

"So you did end up in the Bloody Phlegethon...Apollyon," I said with a growl.

Shaking my head I summoned my armor and Whispering Wind before I took a breath and walked around the corner and towards the crowd. I saw Apollyon was tearing into my guards but thankfully none of them have been killed yet and were holding their own pretty well. However Apollyon managed to used the guard of her longsword as a hook and pull one of my guards to the ground and was about to finish her off.

"Enough!" I shouted causing everyone to freeze in place as I walked towards them. "Focus your attention on the rift," I said before I pointed at the ex-Lord Warden. "I'll deal with her."

"Hmmf fine," Apollyon said as she rested her blade over her shoulders.

The guards then did as instructed and focused on the rift while I faced Apollyon. I drew my sword and pointed it at Apollyon before I took a stance while Apollyon took a stance and went for an upper guard position.

I then took a swing at Apollyon's side but she blocked the blow then went with a heavy upper attack. I dodged the attack yet she followed up her first attack with another and when I went to block the attack she stopped and changed the attack to hit my waist so I used the bracear on my left arm to block the strike. I then used my left arm to punch Apollyon in the face before kicking her in the chest with my right foot, knocking her back. Apollyon then took a couple of swipes at me but I blocked each one before she ended her attacks with a shoulder charge, stunning me for a few seconds but it was enough time for Apollyon to knock me off my feet. She was about to bring her sword down on me but I rolled to the side, got onto one knee and held Whispering Wind above me and parried Apollyon's next attack before I counter attacked with an overhead strike of my own, tearing into Apollyon's armour and causing her to stagger back a few steps before I got up to face the former Warlord.

"Interesting, you fight well...wolf," Apollyon said. I said nothing but took a stance once more.

Suddenly a scream goes off beside me and when I looked I saw one of the damned had gotten passed the guards and lunged at me. It latched on to me and began to bang it's fists upon my helmet. I tred to shake it off for awhile but the effort was fruitless, so I grabbed one of the soul's arms before I pulled it off and thew it towards the wall. I then removed my helmet and tossed it at the soul pinning it to the wall.

"You," I heard Apollyon say with surprise while I turned to look at her.

"Not sure weather I should be touched or surprised that you still remember my face Apollyon. What's it been ten, fifteen thousand years since we last saw each other?" I asked as I rested Whispering Wind's blade on my shoulder.

"So your still around. Are you Ash, Holden Cross's second and the one who brought back the Iron Legion," Apollyon said.

"And took your place as the Lord Warden. Tell me, what are you doing here?" I asked as I pointed Whispering Wind at her.

"If you want answers then you must beat me for them," Apollyon said before she charged.

I wasn't quick enough to react and she kicked me into a window causing it to crack before she shoulder charged me. Realising what she was aiming to do as soon as she hit me, I grabbed a hold of her and dragged her through the window.

---

Third Person P.O.V.

---

Most of the group from the dining room came running into the hallway when a guard had arrived and told them of some kind of portal opening up to a fiery landscape where monsters were trying to get in and a skilled warrior had managed to get in and was fighting the guards. Rage, the Royals, the mane six along with Elisa, Evan, Comet and Mac made it to the corridor and saw the situation. Shock wouldn't be the expression they were feeling before Rage noticed one particular soul that was being pinned by Ash's helmet.

"Elisa, Faust gimme a hand with this, we need to send this guy back before deep shit hits the fan," Rage said.

"With what, to lift a helmet and toss a soul back into hell?" Elisa asked.

"Need I remind you Elisa, Ash's helmet alone is twice as heavy as your belt alone. Also we need Faust to hold this guy just so it doesn't go and cause a problem elsewhere," Rage growled.

"Kay, kay someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed," Elisa said before she went and grabbed the helmet along with Rage and Faust while the latter used her magic to pin the twisted soul.

With a massive heave they managed to move the helmet to the side before Rage grabbed the soul and threw it back into the rift leading to Hell.

"Move!" Rage ordered as he held his right hand up causing all the guards between him and the portal to move out of the way before a torrent of flames burst from his hand and started sealing up the portal while pushing the damned back. When he ended his barrage of fire the flames dispersed leaving no trace of the portal or burn marks.

"What the heck was that?" Rainbow asked.

"A rift to Hell. Remember when Bones- I mean Ash- I mean, ugh y'know, When we went to Hell you know who told us that once in awhile rifts like that will appear at random and will sometimes end up dragging someone in," Rage said.

"Ooooohhh," the mane six, Comet and Mac said before Rage looked at the helmet on the floor.

""Hey what the hell happened to Ash?" Rage asked.

"That warrior, it started fighting with his highness before she and the king went through the window," one of the guards said as he pointed to the broken window.

"She?' the group asked causing the guard to nod.

Walking to the window everyone peeked out and once more stared at what was happening below.

"Go figure she'd end up in Hell but the odds of her showing up here," Rage said.

"Is that....uh what was it?" Rainbow asked trying to remember the name.

"Apollyon?" Applejack deadpanned.

"That's it!" Rainbow shouted.

"Think we should help?" Rarity asked.

"Nah you all know how Ash likes to solve problems from the past," Comet said.

"He has a point," Chrysalis said.

"She's pretty good," Evan commented before Ash landed a blow against the dark clad warrior's helmet.

"But not better then Ash," Mac said.

---

Ash's P.O.V.

---

We've been fighting for awhile and I was currently using Whispering Wind to block Apollyon's strikes which proves her time in Hell hasn't dulled her skills in the least. Perhaps she used the fresh new souls as sparing partners or as dummies, whichever works for her. As our swords locked against each other Apollyon used the guard to hit me in the, face knocking me back and stunning me. When I got my focus back Apollyon gripped her sword's blade in her left hand while still holding onto the handle before she rammed the blade into my waist and pushed me into the wall.

"You've fought well my noble wolf, much better then when we spared," Apollyon said while getting into my face.

"I've had a lot of time to practice and learn some new tricks...and I can say you'r no slouch yourself," I said before I headbutted Apollyon in the helm which rung my own head for a bit.

I then used my left fist to hit her but what I didn't realise was that my fist was generating black lightning. So when I hit her I sent Apollyon flying to the far side of the courtyard. I then looked at my hand and saw the lightning before I felt pain where Apollyon stabbed me. I looked down and saw the wound she left me, which surprised me before I shook it off, stood up and watched Apollyon do the same.

"Damn it seems you've improved yourself if you made me bring out that little parlour trick and wound me," I said before I looked at her sword and saw a transparent dark red aura around the blade. "Guess that explains it."

"Silver for blood," Apollyon said as she looked down at the trail of blood flowing from my wound. "And here I thought noble people had blue blood."

"Then there are a lot of people who are noble then," I said as Apollyon began to limp forward dragging her sword behind her. "It seems your beaten."

"Don't be a fool, this fight isn't even close to over," Apollyon said.

You can't even lift your sword let alone swing it," I said as I walked forward as well.

"You underestimate me," Apollyon said before we stopped before each other. "That is a very big mistake."

"I think not," I said as I raised my right pointer finger and gently pushed Apollyon causing her to topple and collapse into unconsciousness just as I sheathed Whispering Wind. "And nighty night."

"Ash, are you alright?"

I looked to the source of the voice and I saw most of the group from the Dining Room was here and most likly observed the fight.

"I'm fine," I said as I held my right hand out and my helmet flew into my waiting hand before I tucked it under my arm.

"The fact that you can move while wearing all that god heavy armor along with the fact that you can stand with that wound still surprises me greatly," Faust said.

"Well she deserves some credit. She was still able to fight even though she had a what, twenty inch long dagger lodged in her gut when we first met," I said as I gestured to Apollyon.

"How did you two meet anyway?" Twilight asked.

"Well in a sense she actually saved my life but I'll tell you the rest in my private study. As for now I need to tend to Apollyon," I said.

"What are you planing on doing, send her back to Hell?" Rage asked.

"...First thing's first, I need to put her somewhere secure before she awakes," I said as I signalled a couple of guards to come over before gesturing to Apollyon while the others left.

The guards then grabbed a stretcher before placing Apollyon upon it before I gave them orders to put her in a cell in the dungeons away from the other prisoners but give her the comforts of a proper room. With a nod the guards left while I grabbed Apollyon's sword before giving it a once over and felt the demonic energy surrounding the blade. After examining the blade I teleported into my study and summoned a sword stand that would hold the blade vertically before I placed Apollyon's sword upon it. I then headed to my desk and summoned a dark crimson piece of parchment before grabbing a quill and tapping the tip on my left index finger before I started writing.HWhen the quill touched the parchment a flame appeared and words began to burn onto the parchment.

"Ash?"

Looking up from my writing I saw the others were here and looking at me.

"Oh hey sorry, just let me send this letter off and I'll get to you," I said as I rolled up the parchment and sealed it before I summoned a flaming magic circle bearing my mark and droped the letter into it before it vanished. I then stood up and walked into the back room where the others were waiting for me along with Nightmare Moon and Luna. "Alright so where do I begin?" I asked as I sat in an armchair.

"Well first what was that letter for?" Celestia asked.

"Oh I was just informing the warden of the circle of violence that I have Apollyon in my custody so they don't need to send demons over to claim her," I said.

"That's a relief," Faust said.

"And I also plan to keep Apollyon around for awhile as well," I said.

"Huh!" everyone shouted.

"Now hold on an apple picking minute Ash, ya'll plan to keep Apollyon here the same one who tricked yah into starving entire villages and starting a three way war?" Applejack asked.

"Yes her sins aside I believe she may be of use for us if I can convince her to wield her sword beside us," I said.

"She can certainly handle herself I'll admit but question, what makes you think she'll help us just like that?" Elisa asked

"Because I can offer her something no one else can or would...Redemption," I said.

"You plan to erase all her sins?" Rage asked.

"Not all, there are a large number that cannot be removed but I can send her to purgatory where she will answer for her crimes before she is given passage through the pearly gates," I said when suddenly a burning magic circle appeared not too far away and out came a small demon with only horns and a tail before he walked over to me and handed me a dark crimson scroll with a different seal then mine along with a folder. With a nod I grabbed the scroll and read it before nodding.

"Thank you, give your master my regards," I said causing the demon imp to bow before he vanished in another magic circle.

"I take it that's the reply for the letter you sent?" Twilight guessed.

"Yep and he agrees actually. Says that he'd be happy to be rid of her. According to her record she's been known to be extremely violent and won't hesitate to kill any demons when provoking her which results in her going without that much torture since she's been down there. Goes to show that even demons fear some mortals," I said as I looked at the folder before handing it around.

"Geeze this one's something else. Kinda reminds me of you Rage, if you were the opposite gender," Soarin chuckled after a quick look at the folder before handing it over to Elisa.

"Yeah she might just be the War before you War," Elisa said as she looked at Rage.

"Well when anyone did ask she would sometimes claim she was War," I said.

"So I have some competition for my title, this will be quite entertaining but that can wait for later," Rage said before turning to me. "Now then what happened to you while you were gone?"

"Ah well when I died I hung around till the funeral, which was a lovely service, till there was a bright light. I walked towards it and when I reached it I found myself walking through the misty Valley of Death I was unsure of how long I was walking for but I know it was for a long time till I finally came across Craig and he led me into Heaven. It was then that I was reunited with family and friends from long years past," I said as I remembered the memory.

---

Flashback

---

I was dancing to joyful Celtic music with my birth mother, the angel Alga. She was strikingly beautiful with white blonde hair that flowed down her back and olive green eyes that showed a gentle and kind nature with pristine white wings on her back. She was the very definition of the word angel. All around us everyone clapped their hands in time with the rhythm as we danced together and when the song ended my mother looked completely out of breath from dancing around while everyone cheered and clapped as we both bowed.

"Goodness my boy, you've become quite the accomplished dancer. I haven't been that out of breath since my own death," Alga said causing everyone to laugh.

"It's a shame father couldn't be here, I was hoping he'd be," I said as I let out a sigh.

"Be careful what you wish for."

Spinning around I came face to face with a strong and extremely handsome man named Ronsihr who had short black hair and his deep brown eyes showed fierceness and wisdom behind them. On his back, unlike my mothers wings, his were webbed and a dark crimson showing all what he was.

"Farther!" I shouted as I hugged the male demon who hugged me in return before we pulled back.

"Let me look at you son," Ronsihr said as he placed a hand on my cheek and looked me up and down. "Yes I can see you've grown stronger since we last saw each other.

"But...how-?"I began.

"Am I here well bit of a story behind that. You see after the massacre the Lord himself saw how miserable both the demons and angels from Aephoceria were when they were separated from their other half so as a divine law all those who lived there were granted blessing to reunite with their lovers but all must return to their realms after a certain time limit. Besides I doubt anyone would stop me from attending this," Ronsihr said.

"A father's determination, yet another thing I inherited from you," I said causing everyone to laugh when suddenly a pair of angels wearing armor and faces covered descended among the crowd and approached me and my parents.

"Ash Blade?" one of the angels asked the voice being clearly femine.

"Aye," I said.

"Could you Lady Alga and-," the other guard began with a male voice while looking towards my farther causing him to raise an eyebrow at the guard. "Sir Ronsihr please follow us," the guard said before they both took to the air and we followed behind them.

"Unbelievable," Ronsihr said as we flew through the clouds.

"Now Ronsihr remember we have to give them time," Alga said.

"Oh beloved you know one of the reasons I love you is because you always see the good in everyone but I've been patient for over ten trillion years now," Ronsihr said.

"I have to agree mum, it is a fantastic quality to admire but that is a very long time to wait for things to change," I said.

Soon we arrived at a massive castle that towered over us like an ant to a human and it was too grand to describe. We then landed at the entrance where a set of doors towered above us at fifty feet.

"What is this place?" I asked.

"The court of the gods," Alga said.

"It is where the leading gods from every culture come together for meetings but I sense a great deal of more power from within then what I've ever felt in my existance," Ronsihr said.

"I feel it too, it can only mean that there are more gods in there then usual," Alga said.

Suddenly the doors began to slowly open up until they were fully open and this left Alga speechless with her mouth open in shock.

"Mother?" I began.

"The doors...they never open up fully for regular summons," Alga said.

"So the doors are fully open and there are a ton of gods inside, way more then usual according to you...Something tells me I'm gonna be very busy by the time this is over," I sighed before I began to walk inside.

The halls were just as massive if not more so then the doors leading inside and they were quite lavish as well. Suddenly the doors closed behind us with a mighty boom leaving me and my family alone in the massive hallway when suddenly a figure wearing red and white robes and yellowish gold wings growing out of their back flew towards us. When the figure landed upon the ground before us the wings disappeared and turned into a golden cape that went around the figure's body almost like a cloak. Upon closer inspection I could see the figure was a male with eyes as blue as the sea and long blonde hair that reached his back. I could also see a white piece of fabric hanging from the figures belt that had a brown border and a yellow holy cross on it. Finally the last features of the figure was the halo above his head.

"Archangel Michael," I said as I stepped forward to greet the Archangel.

"Ash Blade, it is a pleasure to see you again," Micheal said as he approached me and offered me his hand to shake.

"Yes...I hope there are no hard feelings for my attitude towards you," I said as I shook the Archangel's hand.

"None at all, as I said before Ash we deserved your scorn. Now if you would all be so kind as to follow me everyone's waiting and please, do not be afraid to use your wings to fly through the hallways they are rather large," Micheal said before he turned around and his cloak became wings once more before he took off and the three of us followed behind.

We flew after Micheal till he stopped at another set of doors just as large as the doors at the entrance only these had a grand design upon them of a sea of clouds and hovering above was a sun with it's rays of light shining down upon them. Embedded in the sun was a bright blue jewel that was lit up from a light beyond the doors. As I took in the details of the beautiful door we landed before them. Michel approached them and grasped a rope that connected to the door.

"The lord himself and all the other gods are waiting, it's best you three enter now," Micheal said as he pulled the rope twice causing me to give Micheal a nod before the doors began to open but a bright light obscured my vision of what lay beyond the doors. "And Ash...may fortune continue to smile upon you."

With that the Archangel left so I turned back to my parents who gestured for me to go ahead. So taking a gulp of air I turned to face the fully opened doors, walked through them and upon entering I was surrounded by a warm and comforting light before I found myself surrounded by clouds and blue skies. Rising out of the clouds like swords were towering pillars that reminded me of Faust's tower back in the World between Worlds. I began to walk forward till I almost fell into a pool of water but when I looked I saw a small version of the Earth calmly spinning on it's axis floating above the water. Suddenly I felt many strong presences surround me and when I looked I saw several thrones and on each throne was a different leading god from a different religion; Ra, Osiris, Set, Ganesha, Shiva, Odin, Thor, Zeus, Poseidon, Hades, Amaterasu, Din, Nayru and Farore along with many many others and finally a massive monolith made of clouds arose upon the opposite side of the pool away from where I entered. Suddenly a hole opened up in the monolith and streaks of light pored into the hole forming an orb of pure light.

Realising I had the most powerful figures in all of creation staring at me I did what any sane person would do, I unsheathed a phantom clone of Whispering Wind (which has been with me since my death) from my back and embedded the tip into the clouds before I got to one knee and bowed my head.

"So this is the one."

"He certainly doesn't look like much."

"He's certainly cuter then you,"

"If you're all quite done, we can begin."

During it all I remained silent and kept my head bowed unsure of what I was supposed to do next.

"Rise."

Doing as asked I stood up and sheathed phantom Whispering Wind onto my back before I looked ahead at the towering monolith.

"Greeting Ash Blade and yes I am indeed who you think I am," a voice spoke but I couldn't tell if it was male or female but I do know it came from the orb in the monolith because the orb pulsed with each word.

"So this is what you look like; no gender, no face just your presence," I said.

I didn't see but I could tell God just nodded in response to my comment.

"It has certainly been a long time since we last spoke my tiny friend," Odin said. A god who wore purple, gold and silver armor and robes and he had a three pronged spear in his grip called Gungnir. He had short white hair and a long beard with parts of it tied into three braids while the rest hung loosely and a golden eye patch covered his left eye.

"Indeed lord of the Norse but if I may ask what brings all of you together, it can't be for little old me can it," I said.

"Little and old is right," a god said and he was wearing the armor of a spartan and armed with both a spear and hoplite and finally a sword on his belt.

"And you're older then he is Ares and yet he was once one of your top Spartans back when Persia invaded Thermopylae," said a goddess wearing a helmet that just sat atop her head leaving her face exposed. She was wearing a toga and she held a spear in her right hand while an owl was perched upon her left shoulder.

"Why you-," Ares started when the sound of of something metallic banged on the floor.

"Enough you two," Zeus demanded with a voice like thunder and like last time we spoke he wore a white toga that reached his feet. He had long white hair and beard and the figure carried a lightning bolt in his grip.

"Actually Ash the reason we are here is because of you," Ganesha said.

I then looked around and looked into the eyes of every god around me and saw the same thing, agreement and that terrified me.

"W-what did I do?" I asked.

"Look at this, despite all he has faced the boy trembles in fear of us," a god with the head of a hawk said I knew this god as the Egyptian god Horus.

"That is to be expected. Put yourself in his place, he is standing in a room surrounded by those who gave creation to the world," Farore said one of the four goddesses of Hyrule. She, like her sisters, had golden skin however her dress and flowing hair was green like the grass in the Scotland highlands.

"There is no need to fear young warrior for the reason why you are here is for a much more joyful reason," Din said and like her sister her skin was golden but her hair and dress were a flame red.

Suddenly I saw movement out of the corner of my eye and when I looked I saw clouds move and form a grand throne so I stretched my wings and flew over till I was hovering before it.

"Are we waiting for someone?" I asked causing most of the gods to chuckle. "What, what did I say?"

"We have been waiting for someone Ash. More specifically someone to fill that throne," Nayru said her hair and dress a beautiful ocean blue as I turned to look back at the throne.

"That someone is you Ash," God said.

I couldn't have spun around fast enough even if I tried. The shock on my face was clear to everyone and when I looked at my parents they shared my emotion before looking back at the gods.

"Wait, you want me...to," I said as I pointed at myself before pointing towards the throne.

"I told you he would be dumbstruck," Poseidon said to Zeus and like before he wore a toga made of scales that reached just below his knees. He had long brown hair that just touched his back and he had a fairly long beard and in his hand was a golden trident.

"No there's gotta be some mistake, I'm just a...," I started.

"Single greatest hero throughout creation and the bridge between both Heaven and Hell," Ra said.

"It may not be known to the world Ash but your actions do not go unknown here. You have stopped many well known evils and disasters from arising all throughout your life. Your pain," Zeus said.

"Your sacrifices," Ganesha said.

"Your unyielding determination," Farore said.

"We wish to reward your efforts despite all you've been through and so here we are," God said as the entire area glowed brighter. "So are you ready?"

"I-I...I need to go," I said before I flew through the entrance doors as quickly as I could.

---

"Hold on a sec, you just left?" Comet asked.

"Yep pretty much," I said.

"Dude don't you think that was kinda...," Rainbow began but trailed off as she tried to find the word she was looking for.

"Rude," Rarity suggested.

"Well not what I wanted to say but close enough," Rainbow said.

"Tell me something you two what would you have done in my position? You have the single most powerful beings responsible for all of all creation everywhere asking you to ascend and join their ranks. I don't know about everyone here but I was struggling not to have a panic attack," I said.

"You know, I kinda know where Ash is coming from here," Twilight said causing us all to turn to face her. "When I became an Alicorn Princess, I was in the exact same position as Ash because I knew everyone would be looking up to me for answers just how I looked up to my mentor," Twilight said as she looked to Celestia who smiled back in response.

"Yeah so accepting the title of god would mean I would have millions and millions of people looking to me. Can you imagine the perfect image I'd have to keep up for them,"I said as I rubbed my head in annoyance.

"Don't need to," Celestia said.

"Anyway back to the story,"

---

Resume Flashback

---

I was sitting in one of the massive structure's massive hallways my back up against the wall and my legs were pulled close to my chest. I felt nothing but conflicting feelings plague my mind.

"Ash?"

Looking at the source of the voice I saw it was both my parents.

"Oh hey sorry about that, it's just...," I started.

"A lot that was dropped on you," Alga finished.

"Yeah," I said.

"Ah don't worry yourself about it Ash," Ronsihr said as he sat down beside me and wrapped his arm over my shoulders.

"Your farther's right, what happened back there was something no one can be prepared for," Alga said.

"Mum, Dad if you were in my position...What would you do?" I asked causing them to look at each other and engage in a silent conversation before Ronsihr held me closer.

"Ash this is a choice you need to make for yourself but just know, we'll be right beside you no matter what you choose," Ronsihr said.

"Thank you both...I think I'm ready to go back inside now," I said as I got up and helped my father up.

We then flew back towards the room/plane or reality the gods and goddesses were still in and when I entered I saw many of the gods and goddesses were standing and mingling with each other. When I approached they all stopped and turned to face me.

"First of all I wish to apologise for my abrupt exit, it's just this isn't a decision that is easy to make. *deep breath* But I have made a decision and my answer is yes,"I said calmly as I could muster despite my nerves but before anyone could speak I raised a hand to let them know I wasn't done. "But I do have a condition to set if I'm going to do this.

"Name it," God said.

"My power...I do not wish to give up on my unholy magic because if I did that then I would be giving up a part of myself," I said causing everyone to talk amongst themselves in surprise.

"Ash the request you make is not within our power to control," God said drawing my attention to him. "You see depending on you yourself what you hold in both heart and soul is what shall define you and allow you to become."

"So in truth it's all about rolling the dice," I said.

"Even if you know this Ash do you still wish to continue?" Farore asked.

"...I'll take my chances even make my own luck if I have to," I said with a smirk.

"I like this kid," a goddess said. She wore a toga so I knew she was of Greece and her flame red hair was braided to look like a crown upon her brow and in her grasp was a cornucopia. She had a blindfold over her eyes and it was then I remembered her as Tyche.

"Then step into the pool," God said as a light pointed to the pool containing the earth.

Suddenly the planet rippled and disappeared leaving only the pool of blue clear water which began to bubble before it lit up like one of Luna's stars on a perfectly clear night. Taking a gulp of air, I did as I was asked and stepped into the pool and as soon as my foot touched the water I instantly felt calm and relaxed before my foot submerged. Soon I heard the sound of tiny bells then singing but I couldn't care where it was coming from as I stepped further into the pool descending down some submerged steps. When I reached the bottom the water came up to my waist and as I walked to the center of the pool the water began to swirl and rise around me but the water kept me calm as I looked around me. Soon the water began to rise higher and higher becoming a vortex around me and as the water swirled voices in the water whispered to me. It was difficult to hear but they spoke of secrets and power and once the voices vanished the water itself stopped like time had been stopped before it collapsed down upon me.

---

"What!

"What happened next!"

"Where you scared!?"

"Did you live!?"

"Are you all gonna keep shouting at me or do you want me to finish?" I asked as I rubbed my ears from the shouting.

"Okay, okay just don't keep us in suspense," Rainbow pleaded.

"Well after awhile once I felt the water stop falling upon me I got up and felt a massive surge of power in my body unlike any I've ever known and when I got out of the pool I was congratulated by all the gods and goddesses for joining their ranks," I said.

"That's it?" Comet asked.

"Yep," I said.

"Huh I was expecting something more...grand," Soarin said.

"Sorry for the disappointment although when it was all over they said my title would come when we figured out my power and what it was then Odin took me back to Asgard for that nine day party I told you all about," I said.

"So after that what happen next?" Applejack asked.

"Well the gods said my power was a bit much for my body to handle and so they talked with my parents about me attending school...," I started.

"School!?" Everyone asked in shock.

"They have a school there?" Twilight squealed.

"Mm-hm for those who didn't get a proper education in life even the children of angels mythical sentient beings like elves and satyrs, centaurs and more and finally it's also open for demigods and gods as well," I said.

"So you weren't the only god there?" Rainbow asked.

"I was but uh I actually kept the fact I was a god hidden from everybody else," I said.

"Oh yeah, why's that?" Dream Catcher asked.

"Being a god at a school like that would be like royalty attending a school for nobles. Everyone would try to be my friend and many would do that for their own personal advantages," I said.

"Fair enough," Dream Catcher said.

"Wouldn't it have been awkward to attend a school while being an adult?" Rainbow asked.

"Easy fix I just used my power to turn myself into a 17 year old and I managed to fit right in," I said.

"Whoa that's gotta be handy," Gilda said.

"Oh I am ever so jealous," Rarity huffed.

"So this school, what was it like?" Twilight asked.

"Oh it was something else. The place was a boarding school complete with private dorms. It had to be the most beautiful and also largest school I've ever seen," I said.

"I doubt it's that impressive," Celestia scoffed.

My response to Celestia's comment was me pulling a photo from thin air before handing it to her and when she looked at the photo the expression on her face made me laugh up a storm and when Twilight looked she fainted.

---

Flashback Ten Days After My Ascension

---

I was standing on the deck of a luxurious airship, gazing at the school before me and the place was breathtaking. The school was sitting upon a massive plateau of rock over a couple of miles long and half as wide forming a wide oval shape. There were several different structures atop the plateau. There was even an arena right in the center and canals of water ran all over the school creating a beautiful pattern that could only be seen from above. At the head of the plateau there was a large white engraved structure that glowed in the sun. This structure acted as the entrance gate for any incoming ships delivering people or supplies to the school. While at the back of the plateau was a massive and dense forest.

"Enjoying the view?"

I spun around and was greeted by Athena who was smiling at me gently.

"Yeah but if Twilight could see this she would lose her mind and Celestia would be green with envy," I said.

"Twilight and Celestia?" Athena asked.

"Oh a couple of ponies I knew when I was alive...when I was alive," I sighed as I placed a hand over my heart.

"I know you left much behind when you died Ash and for what it's worth I'm sorry," Athena said as she placed a hand on my shoulder.

"It's alright, it was by my own choice that I ended up here," I said before I looked at the sky. "I just hope they're all doing well," I said with a sigh before tugging at the collar of my shirt which was part of my new school uniform to make it easier to breath. "Y'know, this outfit is kinda restricting. Are you sure I need to wear it?"

My uniform was a simple double breasted black blazer with epaulets on the shoulders and a blue shoulder cord on my left shoulder. I also had a white shirt while my pants were black slacks and black dress shoes shined to look like mirrors.

"As is customary in most schools, you must wear a uniform to go with it," Athena said.

"That may be but the collar is strangling me," I groaned while tugging at the collar once again.

"Well I say it goes well with that new ponytail hair style you have, thanks to your magic. Which I'm still surprised you mastered so quickly but if I may ask, why do you look like a seventeen year old?" Athena asked.

"Hm oh well it'd be a little awkward for me to go as an adult in my opinion. So this is a comfort thing if anything else and also I'm using it as a disguise. Speaking of which I'd like the fact that I'm a god to be kept under wraps. I'd like to interact with my fellow students, not scare them off or have them worship me or stuff like that," I said causing Athena to chuckle.

"Very well, I shall let the others know about that when we arrive," Athena said.

"If I may ask, why are you here besides escorting me to the school?" I asked.

"Greek Goddess of Wisdom and Mathematics Ash, shouldn't it be obvious as to why I'm here," Athena said.

"Ah right," I said.

"By the way Ash what class are you in? I know your somewhere in the mid-years because of the blue shoulder cord," Athena said.

"Oh uh, hang on," I said before reaching into my coat and pulled out a data pad which reminded me of a smartphone. However the device was black and in the shape of a sharp rectangular prism with three buttons at the bottom just outside the screen: the school supplies, to inform me of my timetable, notifications and it even has my school ID on it. "Mid-year class 7-A."

"Wow that's very impressive, two years before the senior years and in the advanced classes as well most impressive," Athena said.

"I think everyone is putting a little too much confidence in me," I said.

"You'll do fine Ash...Ah we're entering the gate," Athena said causing me to look at the gate myself.

When I looked at gate I saw a large rectangular hole opened up in the monument allowing us to enter the school grounds. Upon entering I saw several other ships were docked inside as well. I then went and quickly gathered my luggage, which was in a luggage bag my mother got for me, before I headed for the exit ramp where Athena was waiting for me.

"All set, our first stop will be at the men's dormitory where we can drop off your luggage before heading to class," Athena said as she began to walk away.

"Got it," I said as I followed.

The walk through the school grounds was quite relaxing, almost like walking through a park. The grounds were huge and had hedges and trees sitting on the grass around the place. There were a few pathways and benches, even a few critters here and there as well that approached me and I couldn't help but stop to pet them. I then felt eyes on me and when I looked up towards the buildings I saw some faces quickly disappear from view but I couldn't get the details of their faces.

"Ash...it's best we not dally," Athena said.

"Oh right sorry," I said as I stood up, grabbed my luggage and ran over to follow the goddess.

We then entered the main lobby where I took a look around and was astounded by the view. There was a staircase that led in four different directions with banners hanging from the walls and ceiling, a tiled floor of blue, golds and whites with plenty of stained glass windows of nothing in particular but patterns to let in plenty of light.

"Well what do you think so far?" Athena said.

"Not bad, it is very impressive," I said as I looked around the lobby.

"Now Ash, I believe there is one thing I neglected to tell you," Athena said.

"If this is about the whole different species thing, I read it in the brochure and I'm fine with it. Otherwise things would have been very different for me in Equestria," I said.

"It's not that Ash. It is about our students yes but not in the way your thinking," Athena said.

"Okay then what?" I asked.

"Well there have been a large number of gender unbalancing as of late, so I think it fair to say that...," Athena said when suddenly a bell rang out load and clear and suddenly the lobby was swarmed with students but what surprised me. "About 80% of our students are female."

"Oh...wonderful," I said.

"Yes, there are quite a few young males in Heaven whom have passed on but do not wish to attend school. We do not wish to force them to go so we leave them be and we welcome them if they change their minds, but the children of Angels have very little choice in the matter. However the past few years have been particularly bad," Athena said.

"Yikes, that's gotta suck," I said as I tried to stay out of my soon to be fellow students way and as I moved and dodged I noticed a lot of the girls glance and stare at me as they passed.

"You're not off put are you Ash?" Athena asked.

"Uh Equestria has a similar situation, so I'm not too fussed about it personally," I said.

"I see," Athena said.

"M'lady Athena."

When I looked at the source of the voice I spied four different girls had come up and were looking at the two of us. They each had blue shoulder cords meaning they were mid-years like me, but unlike me their attire were black full body dresses that reached the floor.

"Oh hello girls and how are your studies," Athena asked.

"Fine m'lady, you seriously helped us out with the algebra. But we wanted to ask who this is," one of the girls said as she looked at me.

"Ladies, this Ash Blade. As of today he will be a fellow student so treat him well," Athena said.

"it's a pleasure to meet you all," I said with a small bow.

"Oh my gosh, he's so cute," one of the girls whispered to another.

"So Ash, tell us what class are you in?" one of the girls asked.

"Oh I'm a mid-year class 7-A," I said.

"What, no way, the advanced classes!?" one of the girls asked as she leaned in close to my face causing me to lean back so our faces don't touch.

"Uh yeah, I guess so," I said and it was then I realized I had drawn a crowd of students. Suddenly the sound of clapping hands drew everyone's attention, including mine, and when I looked I saw it was Athena.

"Now now everyone, don't you all have classes to get to instead of staring at the poor boy," Athena said.

"Awww," most of the crowd groaned before they went on their way.

"Are you alright Ash?" Athena asked.

"Uh yeah, I'll be fine...but I think I underestimated just what exactly I'm about to get myself into," I said.

---

"Humph," Luna suddenly huffed and loudly too.

"Oh boy," I said as I pinched the bridge of my nose.

"Don't you 'oh boy' me Ash. Honestly you can't go anywhere without someone trying to hit on you. Why don't you just tell them you're married and leave it at that?" Luna asked.

"Cause if I did that my whole identity would have been blown and if everyone knew I was a god they would most likely try and seduce me all the more. Besides you are hardly in any position to judge me," I said.

"W-what?" Luna stammered.

"Don't play coy After I was gone there have been many stallions who have tried to seduce you and yet you don't see me acting like a jealous colt now do you," I said calmly and with a matter of fact tone causing Luna's ears to droop adorably and her eyes become downcast. I then placed a hand underneath her chin and made her tilt her head up to look me in the face. "I'm not angry at you Luna and personally I'd understand if you had wished to move on with someone else. I wasn't even sure at the time that I could come back so I hold no blame over you," I said as I nuzzled her muzzle with my nose cheering her up.

"I couldn't do such a thing Ash, even if I tried. I could never love another like how I love you," Luna said.

"Now I hope you two aren't gonna get too close that it would end up pushing me out of this relationship," Nightmare whined as she nuzzled my cheek with hers.

"Never, I love you both more then all the stars in the sky," I said as I kissed them both.

"Awww," the mane six and seven cooed.

"You mean that corny stuff works?" Soarin asked earning glares from everyone.

"Anyway, back to the story," I said.

---

Resume Flashback

---

I was walking through an almost endless stone grey hallway full of doors with Athena. The only lighting here were two rows of small windows in the upper two corners of the hallway allowing a little light to enter the hallway. Neither of us said a word before we stopped at door.

"Here's your room Ash," Athena said as she handed me a key.

Taking the key I inserted it into the lock before I opened the door outward and was greeted by the sight of my room. The room was fairly large and square shaped and as soon as I entered I saw a queen size bed up against the back wall of the room, with a large window as well to let in natural light with a ledge at the bottom of the window as well. There was a blue and grey rug on the ground, a pair of book shelves on the right wall as you enter the room for personal books and in-between the shelves was a large mirror with a desk and drawers for studding utensils. There was also a long chest of drawers against the wall the door was attached to and on the left was a pair of doors; one leading to a closet and the other to a personal bathroom. Above the bed and chest of drawers were a set of shelves for little nick knacks and whatnot's.

"What do you think?" Athena asked.

"Reminds me of a personal apartment...It will do just fine, thank you Athena," I said.

"Oh and one more thing Ash," Athena said as she walked over to a space between the door and the chest of drawers. She reached for a small slot in the wall and pulled out a drawer of some type and when I walked over to look I saw a cloth bag within it being held by a set of hooks. "This is for any dirty laundry you have Ash. While you have classes cleaners will come by your room and give it a clean and your laundry will be taken to be cleaned before being returned here for you to put away how you see fit."

"Got it," I said.

"Well I'll leave you to get settled in Ash, while I go and inform your teacher about you being on your way and about your identity. So just use the data pad to find out where all your classes are when your done," Athena said.

"Alright and thank you Athena," I said with a bow.

"Ash, we are equals. You have no reason to bow to me," Athena said with a smile before she left.

With Athena gone I let out a sigh before I walked over to my luggage and began to unpack my clothes and put them away how I like them. I then placed a few books onto the shelves along with some items I had in life (or at least copies of them at least). I was packing away the last of my books when I came across one that had a sky blue color and a single word engraved in gold upon the cover in fancy writing.

Memories

I then opened the book and gazed upon pages full of photos and a few pages of paper glued into the book describing why the photos were taken. I flipped through the pages enjoying the memories of my time in Equestria till I stopped upon one of me, Luna, Pip and Midnight. I was holding Luna close and she was holding Midnight while Pip was sitting on my lap and we were all smiling at the camera. It was then I realized I was crying, so I quickly wiped away my tears and closed the book so I didn't ruin the photos before shelving it.

Once that was done, and everything was put away, I took out my data pad and brought up a map telling me where my class was. So stepping out of my room, and locking the door behind me, I began to make my way through the hallways towards my class while taking in my surroundings as I went so I didn't have to constantly depend on a map. Soon enough I arrived at the classroom door. So putting away my data pad I raised a hand and knocked at the door three times.

"Come in."

Opening the door I was greeted by a large rectangular room with what looked like a staircase stand so the teacher can see all the students and all the students could see the teacher. On the structure were two rows of five double seated desks all going up to a singular desk that looked more like a throne at the top. The first three rows on both sides of the class consisted of female students while the last two rows had only five students, leaving one desk unoccupied. Finally sitting on the singular desk was a male student that looked ordinary but I could feel a great deal of power coming from her, a power that felt like Ares's.

---

"Wait Ares, I thought you said you were the only god there?" Twilight said.

"And what I said was true. But demigods on the other hand well, that's different," I said.

"A demigod?" Soarin asked.

"Children who's parents are a god slash goddess and a mortal," Faust said.

"Wait, I just remembered you telling me once that Zeus had sired many demigods throughout history yet isn't Hera married to Zeus?" Celestia asked.

"So that means Zeus...," Mac started.

"Slept with another while being wedded to Hera...yeah," I said while most of the group's jaws dropped in shock. "And before you ask, yes she knows and it's not just Zeus and with one child there have been others, many other times as well."

"Whoa turns out the gods ain't so pure after all," Gilda said and that caused a few in the group to look at me.

"Don't you dare even go there! You all know me better then that and shame on all of you for thinking it!" I shouted as I pointed at the group.

"Sorry!" everyone shouted.

"Anyway, may I continue?" I asked calmly causing everyone to nod.

---

Resume Flashback

---

I then brought my focus to my teacher who was male and had the head of an ibis and wore a Shendyt around his waist. I then recognised him as Thoth.

"Ah your the new one that just arrived correct?" Thoth asked.

"Um yes sir," I said.

"Ah yes Athena came by and explained it to me. I must say you got here quicker then expected, Athena left only a minute ago," Thoth said.

"Oh, guess I had less in my bag then I thought," I said.

"Well come in my boy and I shall introduce you," Thoth said as he gestured for me to approach so I did till I stood before the classroom. "Everyone I'd like you to meet Ash Blade, he's a brand new student at this school and it's his first day here so I want you to be on your best behaviour and be kind to him."

"Hello everyone, a pleasure to be here," I said with a bow causing most of everyone in the class to clap.

"Now that that is out of the way, I hate to disappoint you all but the history test is still on. Ash since it's your fist day here don't be concerned on your score, just do your best," Thoth said.

"Understood sir," I said.

"Now if you can find a seat we shall begin," Thoth said.

I then walked up the stairs and as I walked up I heard my classmates whisper to each other but ignored it. When I reached the unoccupied desk I sat down comfortably then suddenly, in a flurry of wind, papers flew around the room before coming to a rest in a pile before each of the students. I then saw a quill and inkwell upon my desk as well, along with a pencil.

"Alright everyone, you have one hour to finish. Begin," Thoth said and immediately everyone began to work. I also looked at the questions before I smiled. I grabbed the quill and dipped it into the ink and cleaned off any extra ink before I began to write.

I wasn't sure how long I was writing for but I was breezing through the questions. However there were a few questions that I had to stop and think about. But eventually I finished writing my answers to the questions. I then put down my quill and grabbed my papers before I began to make my way down the steps. As I walked I heard the sound of some pencils stop writing and felt eyes on me from around the room but I paid it no mind as I approached Thoth's desk.

"Ah Ash, how can I help you?" Thoth asked.

"I've finished the test sir," I said as I handed him my papers.

Suddenly all sound fades from the room and when I look I saw all the students had stopped writing and were staring at me in bewilderment. Which confused me and kinda made me nervous.

"Already, it's only been fifteen minutes since we started," Thoth said as he took my papers.

"Well, I guess I have plenty of experience with history," I said

"Hm even so, are you sure you don't wish to go over your questions once more to make sure you got them right?" Thoth asked.

"Oh, I already did that and I'm happy with my answers," I said.

"Very well. Since we're going to have lunch after this period why don't you take this opportunity to look around the school," Thoth suggested.

"Sounds like a great idea, thank you," I said as I began to make my way to the door.

"Oh hold on Ash," Thoth said causing me to stop. I then saw Thoth wave his hand and suddenly my data pad beeped. I took it out and saw some kind of pass on the screen. "Show that to anyone who stops you. That will let them know you have my permission to be out and about."

"Oh thank you sir. Guess I'll see you around," I said as I made to leave again.

"See you around," Thoth said with a wave before I closed the door behind me.

I then began my treck through the hallways till I made it out of the building. I took a moment to breath in the crisp clean air and feel the warm rays on my head, shoulders and back. I then noticed a few students lounging about, most likely having a free period or something. I then began exploring the grounds and discovered they had a class for everything. From a greenhouse for gardening, a ballroom for dancing and even a mighty Colosseum.

"Wow, this place has everything," I said to myself.

"Hey you!"

Freezing dead in my tracks I turned around to see a dark skinned woman, whom I'd guess was perhaps seventeen years old with long silver hair and aqua blue eyes, walking over to me. She was wearing attire that would be suited for exploration or walks through forests, complete with a leather shoulder pauldron on her left shoulder, leather armor on her left leg and leather faulds upon her hips. Finally I noticed her ears were long, thin and pointed meaning this woman was an elf.

"Who are you and why are you here?" the woman asked.

"Uh sorry, I was just getting used to this place. I'm new here," I explained and this caused the woman to look me up and down while having a raised eyebrow.

"May I see your data pad?" the woman asked as she held her hand out.

Doing as asked I reached into my coat and pulled out my data pad before handing it to her.

"Well you have a pass so that confirms your not skipping class...hm, so it is your first day here...and yet you are in the mid-year classes. I must say that's quite a feat for someone so young," the woman said.

"If only you knew," I thought.

"Oh do forgive my rudeness, I am Princess Zoastria Valyarus," the she-elf said with a smile.

"Princess?" I asked with a tilt of my head before my brain caught up with me and I quickly got onto one of my knees to bow.

"Please get up, there's no need for titles or any of that here. You said you were getting used to this place. Are you taking a self guided tour?" Zoastria asked as I stood up.

"Uh yeah," I said.

"Well would you care for a tour?" Zoastria asked.

"Oh uh, you sure, if your busy...," I started.

"It's alright, I don't have any classes for the rest of the day," Zoastria said.

"Well then lead on your highness," I said as I gestured towards the path.

With a smile Zoastria led me around, pointing out every room. The school even had it's own pool, gym and a massive Japanese styled bathhouse as well.

"Wow this place has everything short of a shopping mall huh," I said causing Zoastria to laugh.

"Yes it does and color me impressed, your in the mid years yet it's your first day. Not only that but you had a history test with Thoth for your fist period, yet you completed the test and double checked it in all of twenty minutes. Thoth is very thorough when it comes to history," Zoastria said.

"Yeah he and all my class were in awe," I said.

"Um, forgive me if this seems like a strange time to bring this up but, I never got your name," Zoastria said.

"Oh forgive me, my name is Ash Blade but my friends call me Ash for short," I said.

"Ash Blade...strange, that name sounds...strangely familiar," Zoastria said.

"Is it?" I asked calmly trying to hide any hint of my nervousness.

"Oh well, I'm sure it will come to me eventually and for the record I would like you to call me Zoa for short, all my friends call me that," Zoastria said.

"Alright then Zoa," I said just before a scent reached my nostrils. "Hey any idea what smells so good?"

"Oh that must be the kitchens preparing lunch for us, shall we go watch?" Zoa asked.

"Sure," I said and Zoa led me to a massive rectangular building.

We then walked inside and arrived in an alcove with a massive window on the wall leading into the building where the source of the smell was coming from. At the bottom of the window there were pots and pans about along with utensils to pick up and eat food. This allowed anyone who came in to pick out what they wanted before leaving and when we looked through the window we saw a massive kitchen and hundreds of chefs running around preparing meals. I noticed the head chef was a female and was yelling at one of the male chefs. I then looked around for a door to enter and when I found it I walked inside. At first no one noticed my presence till I approached the head chef and Ibegan to hear what the argument was about.

"I keep telling you that you must always follow the recipe and now this whole batch is ruined," the head chef shouted as she pointed to a massive pot.

"But that is what I did. We're still trying to sort out the label mix up from last week that was done by the students," the chef said.

The two then continued to argue while I looked at the pot. I then grabbed a small spoon, dipped it into the pot and pulled out a small sample before tasting it. When the taste hit my tongue I grimaced before I looked around and went to grab a few ingredients from around the kitchen. I then added them to the pot before I stirred the ingredients in.

"Hey!"

Suddenly someone grabbed my shoulder and pulled me away from the pot. That was when the head chef and chef had stopped arguing and looked at me.

"Who are you and what are you doing here? Don't you know students aren't allowed in here?" the head chef demanded.

"I...uh um," I began.

"Head chef Valentine forgive him, this is actually Ash's first day at this school," Zoa said stepping into the conversation.

"But he's a mid-year," the chef holding me said.

"It's true, I'm sorry I walked in here, I wasn't aware," I said.

"Regardless a punishment needs to be set," the head chef said.

"Wait chef you gotta taste this," another female chef said as she gestured to the pot.

The head chef then pulled a sample spoon out from her apron and tasted the food within the pot before her eyes widened.

"Did...did you add something to this?" the head chef asked causing me to gesture to the ingredients to the side of the pot. "Amazing, I never would have thought to use this. Did you study under someone?"

"Uh not really, I just know my way around the kitchen," I said.

"Well regardless thank you ever so much. You saved us from having to throw this out," the head chef said as she gestured to the pot. "There's nothing worse then wasting food."

"I won't argue with that," I said.

"Anyway because of this little turn around I won't tell anyone you entered here without permission," the head chef said.

"Uh thank you ma'am," I said as the chef holding me released me and I began to make my way to the door.

"Hey kid, what's your name?" the head chef asked.

"Ash Blade ma'am," I said.

"Ash Blade huh...Well we could always use a few new recipes and hands around here," the head chef said with a smile.

"Uh thank you," I said before I left with Zoa.

"I have never seen anything like that before," Zoa said once we were out of the kitchen.

"Like what exactly?" I asked.

"Head Chef Valentine. She has never smiled at anyone like that, let alone praise their skills in cooking," Zoa said.

"Heh, guess I kinda have a positive effect on people," I said.

"Hm yes well why don't we start making a line while we're here. The lunch bell will be tolling soon and this place get's crowded quickly," Zoa said.

With a nod both Zoa and I stood in place before the selection table. Not long after the bell tolled and within five minutes students began to flood the area. Both Zoa and I were first in line as we grabbed our trays and began to pick out our food before we left. We then settled down at a table in the sunshine and we began to eat.

"This is simply delicious, you really brought out both the flavour and texture of this dish," Zoa said as she took a spoonful of the stew I saved.

"Glad your enjoying it. Hey I gotta question for you, while I was in the kitchen I noticed some of the chefs were working on individual meals," I said.

"Oh those must have been delivery meals," Zoa said.

"Delivery meals?" I asked.

"Students here can request special lunches to be made describing what they want for their meal for any part of the day, like breakfast, lunch and dinner, as long as they fill out a slip with the details of what they want at that time the day before. This can be handy like when you need to study or if you prefer to eat in your room," Zoa said.

"Huh well what do you know," I said as I took a sip of cola from a can.

"Hey Zoa!"

I looked at the voice and I saw three girls and and two guys walking towards us. They all wore the school uniform and had a blue shoulder cord meaning they were all mid-years. The shortest girl of the group looked like a fifteen year old Japanese girl. She had brown eyes and blue hair done up in a pair of high pigtails. The next girl was the tallest girl of their little group and looked like a eightteen year old. She had blazing red hair with brow eyes. The next was shorter then the last girl and had light pink hair that touched her shoulders. She also had soft green eyes along with a pair of beautiful blue wings on her back.

Finally her eyes told me she was more of the shy type like Flutters. Next was the boys, the first and easily the tallest in the group looked like a seventeen year old and had a mature aura around him, Ithen noticed the feathered wings upon his back. The next had dark skin, a black buzz cut and I noticed he had horns on his head and goat legs meaning he was a satyr.

"Hey Zoa, whose this guy?" the satyr asked as he leapt onto the seat opposite Zoa and myself before sitting down along with the others.

"Zyt this is Ash Blade, this is his first day here and I was showing him around," Zoa said.

"Oh fresh meat huh. Well he's certainly cute I'll give him that," the girl with the pigtails said.

"Welcome, pleasure to make your acquaintance, I'm Saniel. You already know Zoastria, Zyt and finally Washu here," Saniel said as he gestured to the girl in pigtails before gesturing to the girl with the blazing brown hair then the girl with the pink hair. "And this is Karen and Alice."

"Pleasure to meet you all," I said.

"So how'd you get here?" Zyt asked.

"I'm sorry?" I asked.

"Oh lord, here we go," Karen said as she rolled her eyes.

"Oi!" Saniel said with a glare but Karen didn't look like she cared.

"I mean how did you die?" Zyt asked.

"Do you always ask that whenever you meet someone here?" I asked.

"Yes," most of the group answered.

"What, can't blame me for being curious," Zyt said.

"No, we blame you for not keeping your mouth shut," Washu said.

"Hey I had no problem telling you guys I got eaten by a cyclops," Zyt said.

"Whoa hell of a way to go," I said.

"You know it," Zyt said.

*ahem* "I would appreciate it if you would not use that word here," Saniel said.

"What?" I asked.

"He's talking about the H word that describes a certain place," Washu said causing me to nod.

"You know they're not all bad right," I said.

"Excuse me?" Saniel asked.

"Demons, not all demons are bad because if they were why would demons be allowed past the Gate of Heaven?" I asked as I ate.

"I am well aware of that but still, there are those who have turned away from the lords light and prefer to bring chaos and ruin to the souls of the unfortunate," Saniel said.

"Well angels aren't exactly all pure of heart either y'know," I said.

"Oh, name one," Saniel said.

"Lucifer," I said causing our entire table to go silent. "He was once an angel before he organized a plot to destroy an entire kingdom built for peace and unity which turned him and his followers into fallen angels."

"The home of the Demonic Angels...Yes, I'm aware of that blight upon our name," Saniel said.

"Hey, how'd you know about all that?" Washu asked.

"There are a few Demonic Angels about. I had plenty of time to ask them and do a bit of studying before coming here," I said hoping they bought it.

"Oh," everyone said.

"Anyway Ash about Zyt's question from before, you don't have to answer that since it's a personal question," Zoa said.

"I appreciate that...Hey, who are those guys?" I asked as I pointed to a group of eleven students walking past that had flaming red hair.

"Oi, don't make eye contact with them," Zyt said as he nudged my shoulder.

"Why?" I asked.

"They're the children of Ares," Saniel said.

"That supposed to mean something?" I asked.

"They're demigods Ash. Around here demigods are royalty regardless if you were a king or queen in life," Zoa said.

"And those guys are nothing but a bunch of royal jerks," Washu said as one of the children of Ares pushed one of the other students aside, knocking them over. Then was soon tended too by some of the students.

"And the teachers do nothing about this? I thought the eyes of gods see all," I said.

"That may apply to earth, but here they have as much sight as a teacher down there," Zoa said.

"And no one does anything?" I asked.

"Like what?" Zyt asked.

"I don't know, tell the teachers," I said as if it was plainly obvious.

"Many have already tried...but then they end up getting targeted for bullying," Alice said quietly, almost like a whisper.

"Ah she speaks at last," Zyt said.

"Knock it of Zyt. You'll have to forgive her, Alice here is on the shy side," Karen said.

"It's cool. In fact you remind me of someone I knew when I was alive, she's the shy type as well," I said as I looked at Alice who shifted in place. "If you don't mind me asking but by any chance are you a fairy?"

"Mm-hm," Alice nodded.

"How'd you know that?" Zyt asked causing me to point at Alice's wings.

"Hey Alice."

Suddenly Alice tensed up as soon as the voice reached our ears and when I looked I saw it was the same boy in my class who had the power of Ares radiating off him. His flaming red hair told me that he was also a child of Ares.

"Have you reconsidered my proposal," the guy asked as he leaned in close, getting into her comfort space judging by her fearful expression.

"Come on Cody, she said no five times. How many times do ya gotta ask," Zyt said.

"No one was talking to you Zit," Cody spat.

"That's not my name and you know it," Zyt said.

"Oh yeah, whatcha gonna do about it?" Cody said causing the two to try and stare down the other before Zyt backed down. "Exactly nothing. You wanna know why because you are nothing and you always will be-,"

Cody didn't get to finish his little speech before I grabbed him by the back of his coat and pushed him away from my friends.

"Just how old are you dude, five or something?" I asked causing everyone at the table and surrounding us to gasp in shock. "Hi I'm Ash Blade. First day here so you know, kinda exciting actually and if I'm not mistaking, you're a demigod bully who uses that title to think he can get whatever he wants. Wow, just how dumb can you get I wonder?"

Cody then tried to punch me but I just moved to the side before he followed up with a left hook, so I moved back to dodge that as well. Cody then stopped to look at me but after a second I used my right hand to slap the guy across the face, hard, causing everyone to gasp and a few to snicker.

"Did you just slap me?" Cody asked.

"I did, weird right," I said as I looked at the group at my table before looking back at Cody. "Listen up pal, I'm gonna be here for awhile same as you are. So here's what I purpose; stay away from me and my friends and we'll be okay."

With that Cody walked off before I turned back to my group, sat down again and began to eat.

"Dude, do you have any idea what you just did?" Zyt asked.

"Yeah, I told the guy to back off," I said.

"Why?" Alice asked.

"A, after five times and refusing to take a hint and seeing how uncomfortable you were, I wasn't gonna stand by and do nothing. B, no one, and I mean no one, messes with my friends," I said.

"We're friends?" Karen asked.

"Duh I mean, you guys have been seriously kind to me...you were trying to be my friends right?" I asked.

"Of course dude and if anyone has the stones to do that for someone is a real friend in my book," Washu said.

"I hate to be the bearer of bad news but the children of Ares won't take this lying down," Zoa said while taking a sip of her tea.

"Agreed, you just angered a storm Ash," Saniel said.

"So what am I to expect then?" I asked.

"Well first they'll challenge you to a duel to settle this. Now, when you refuse...," Zyt started.

"Whoa, whoa refuse a duel. What are you talking about, is it some kind of sports thing or are we talking about with weapons here?" I asked.

"We're talking weapons here," Zyt said as he took a drink.

"Why would I refuse this," I said causing Zyt to spit out his drink while Karen grabbed me by the shirt and pulled me towards her.

"Are you insane, you want to accept!" Karen shouted.

"Of course. If that will settle this then yes, I'll accept it," I said.

"Dude that's the children of Ares man. Ares, the Greek god of freaking war," Zyt said.

"Even gods can lose a fight dude just ask them. Besides these are demigods we're talking about," I said.

"Demigods that know how to kill and you...you...," Zyt started before he began to look me up and down but stopped when he looked into my eyes.

"Hey you!"

I then looked at the source of the voice and saw all the children of Ares were here and glaring at me.

"You're the punk that slapped our brother?" one of them asked, a male most likely the eldest.

"That I did...I suppose this is the part where you challenge me to a duel?" I asked.

"We're actually willing to let you off the hook actually only because he is such a wuss on the condition that you get on your hands and knees and apologise," a female said who stood beside the eldest.

"Hmm," I hummed as I paced back and forth, pretending to think it over. "Kay I've thought it over and I've reached a decision. My answer is go fuck yourselves."

If the crowd's jaws reached any lower they'd probably be back on earth.

"You sure you wanna ride this train pal, maybe you don't know who we are," the eldest said as he walked towards me till he was in my face.

"Oh I know perfectly well who you all are. The fact is... I don't give a shit. You all wanna settle this then we'll settle it with a duel. Unless of course, your...chicken," I said pushing my face forward to get back in the eldest's face but this just caused the eldest to smile.

"You got guts kid...I like that. It's too bad I gotta spill'em," the eldest said before he gestured to the others to leave.

"So where and when?" I asked.

"After school, the Colosseum, don't be late," the eldest said before he left just as the bell rang to signal the end of lunch.

"Well I better get to class. I'll see you all later," I said as I waved to my friends before I left. As I left I could hear them whisper about me.

"Does he have a death wish or something?" Washu asked.

"That guy cannot be right in the head," Karen said.

"Actually I think he may have a shot," Zyt said.

"What makes you say that Zyt?" Saniel asked.

"You didn't see him and I mean truly see him. Us satyrs have a sense for these things and everything my senses are telling me is there's more to this guy then he looks," Zyt said.

---

"Dude, challenging the children of war on your first day, are you out of your mind!" Comet yelled.

"Would any of you have done the same for the rest of us?" I asked receiving no answer. "Thought so."

"Okay so what happened?" Rainbow asked excitedly while sitting on the edge of her seat.

---

Resume Flashback

---

I was standing in one of the preparation rooms going over the armor and weapons I should wear and wield to this fight.

"Not even a day in and you've already accepted a duel."

I looked at the source of the voice and was greeted by Athena.

"Oh hey Athena. Listen, for what it's worth, I'm sorry about fighting your nephews and nieces like this but this is for my friends," I said.

"I understand Ash which is why I retrieved this," Athena said as she snapped her fingers and summoned a large rectangular box which stood on it's end. I walked over to it and opened it to reveal my armor, Whispering Wind and my shield.

"What, but...how?" I asked.

"It's an astral copy of your real set, think of them like the souls of the physical set, also I had to shrink the armor a bit so it could fit your size but it should maintain it's original weight. That won't be a problem will it? " Athena asked.

"Not at all but why help me?" I asked.

"I've been watching you all day Ash and I must say I'm disappointed in my nieces and nephews but it can't be helped. Which is why I'm doing this," Athena said.

"Now I think you're just spoiling me," I smirked.

"You are aware of how this works right?" Athena asked.

"Yeah, lethal blows are allowed because they've not actually lethal thanks to the magic surrounding the arena. Instead of death (not like we can die anyway) we'll just be teleported out of the arena and that will only happen if I can't fight anymore and each blow you receive will inflict pain on the attacked area. Which to me is a seriously good way to train," I said.

"Well I'm glad to see you know what your doing. Good luck Ash," Athena said as she left.

Once the goddess was gone I walked over to my armor and smiled before I began to put it on before placing Whispering Wind and my shield on my back. I left my helmet off before I walked out of the preparation room and out onto the sands of the Colosseum where I saw I had a full house of spectators watching and cheering, making me feel like I was back in Rome. I looked at my opponents all dressed in armor similar to the other and wielding different weapons but I walked forward till I stood before my enemies. I kneeled down and put down my helmet then grabbed a handful of sand and started rubbing it along my hands before grabbing my helmet and standing up.

"There's still time to apologise," the eldest said.

"I'm good and I don't apologise to bullies," I said as I tossed my helmet from one had to the other before I donned it.

"That's some nice armor...after I'm done moping the floor with your face, I think I'll keep it," one of the children said, a big buffed one.

"You do that, I think I'll keep that sword," a lanky one said as she pointed at Whispering Wind.

"Well you want them, come and get them," I said as I used two fingers to beckon them to come at me.

Suddenly a horn sounded, beginning the match and causing the two to rush me. I calmly stood there and waited before I reached up and grabbed Whispering Wind's handle and once they were close enough, I gave a quick fluid twirl while drawing Whispering Wind and with a powerful blow I slashed the two right across the chests. The blow was so powerful it knocked them back into the sand before they vanished from the arena causing everything to go silent before the crowd screamed in applause. This caused my remaining opponents to look around before turning to me while I removed my shield from my back and giving Whispering Wind a twirl before pointing him at the group.

"Why that-," one of the children growled as he prepared to charge but was stopped by the eldest.

"Don't let emotion rule you. This guy is warrior and a gifted one at that," the eldest said.

"Now things are starting to get hot in here," I grinned when suddenly music filled the arena.

I then charged forward and before anyone could react I leapt at one of my opponents and used the tip of Whispering Wind to stab one of my opponents in the face. I then quickly parried an attack from one of the others and kicked them away before I slashed at the first ones chest, ending him. I dodged to the right to avoid a downward strike from a girl before I spun around her so I was standing behind her were I slashed at her back causing her to disappear from the arena. I then dodged an attack from my second opponent before I used my shield to block his attacks. He then used a guard breaker and struck at my head but his blade bounced off my helmet, much to his surprise. I used the edge of my shield to hit him in the chin, knocking him into the air before slashing downward across his waist, ending him. Suddenly I hear a war cry from behind me and I see a rather buffed up chick wielding a guillotine gun and was bringing it down on me causing me to drop into a kneel and hold my shield above my head. When the weapon came down the blade slid off my shield but tore a fair chunk out of it, but I stabbed Whispering Wind into her leg causing her to collapse before I stood up and decapitated her. Suddenly something hits my foot lightly and when I look I saw it was a small silver ball. But before I could ponder what it was the ball explodes, throwing me into the air before suddenly several objects pierce my armor and hit my body. Then something slams into me, sending me flying across the sands before coming to a stop. When I looked at what happened I saw a pair of males, one wielding a claymore with a serrated edge and another wielding a bow.

"He ain't so tough," the one wielding the claymore said.

"Hey *grunts* dirtbag," I said as I got up to face the two.

"How the fuck are you still here!?" the one with the claymore shouted.

"The rule is if I'm unable to fight anymore then I'm teleported out of the arena...Well here I am," I said as I held my arms out.

Suddenly the archer pulled out an arrow but I ran at him just as he began to knock it. He then pulled back on the bowstring and fired but I held up my shield and blocked the arrow as I kept running. The archer then began to panic as he went to grab another arrow but he dropped it and then went to use his bow as a club and took a swing at me. I used the momentum of my running to slide under the attack while slicing at the archer's waist before I stood up and griped Whispering Wind in reverse then plunged him through the archer's neck before pulling out and twirling him around while the archer disappeared. With a yell from my right I stepped to the left to avoid the claymore threatening to split me in two. I thought my opponent would now have trouble lifting the massive blade out of the ground but he had no such trouble before he took another swing at me. I just leapt into the air over the blade and landed upon it and stood on it till the swing ended. This made the wielder start looking around for me.

*ahem* "Over here," I said gaining the wielder's attention were I simply waved at him.

"Why you little punk, get off my sword!" my opponent shouted as he tried to throw me off.

I simply just jumped over him while I used Whispering Wind to split his head open before I landed on my feet behind the falling body before it vanished. I looked at the last of my opponents before I lowered my chin and let out a growl and that was enough to drive some fear into them. Not a lot but some, and that was enough. I then took a stance when suddenly two of my four remaining opponents, a pair of twins and easily the smallest of my opponents, threw something at me. So naturally I used my shield to block but when I felt the object's impact against my shield a dense purple cloud surrounded me. After a few moments I could feel my senses begin to shut down and I could see discolorations at the edges of my eyesight. I took a wild guess and assumed I had been poisoned.

"Hey, don't tell me your done yet." someone, probably one of the twins, said before I felt a pair of objects shoved into my back, making me want to scream in pain.

"Yeah, we wanna hear you scream some more."

Before I could look at the other voice, a dagger was plunged into my chest. When I looked at who put it there I saw a dagger heading towards my face. So I moved my head to the left but I moved too late causing the blade to pierce my right eye and causing me to scream.

The fog around me began to disappear and I saw the pair of twins standing before me, giggling innocently. They then summoned a pair of chainsaws from out of no where and began to move to carve me up, all the while smiling innocently. With a quick use of my legs I tripped up the twins before I grabbed the chainsaws and plunged them into there chests making them scream.

"Feed on your own screams,"I growled before their bodies disappeared while I stood, wondering if this place was really heaven. I shook my head and turned to my remaining two opponents.

"How can you still be moving, that poison should be paralysing you!" the second eldest shouted.

"Don't get me wrong...this don't exactly tickle," I said as I began to pull out all the daggers and arrows in my body.

"Well then let's see you stand up to this," the second eldest said before she took an inside right stance with her rapier.

Suddenly a massive aura surrounded the her before it began to shrink. But as it did it got brighter and brighter and the wind swirled around her till suddenly she thrusted forward. It looked like she was flying at me. I then used my left hand and, as soon as she was close enough, I grabbed her blade. As soon as I did I felt a massive rush of wind, like a shockwave, rush past me, almost knocking me back if it weren't for the fact I was holding onto the blade. When the dust cleared I was still there holding the blade.

"What!?" the second oldest cried.

Suddenly there was a groaning from my left forearm before it fell off and when I looked, my metal forearm was in ruins before the arm pieces, shield and armor pieces disappeared. I managed to grab my wedding ring before it also vanished. When I looked at the remains of my arm I saw only a few wires hanging from my arm joint and a few sparks as well.

"A prosthetic limb," the second eldest said in shock.

"Don't worry, it's only on the one arm," I said before I punched the second oldest in the face, knocking her out. Leaving only me and the oldest.

"I must say you are full of surprises," The eldest said.

"You ready?" I asked as I pointed Whispering Wind at him.

"...A good warrior must knows when he's beaten," the eldest said as he dropped his weapon which was a spear. "I give up," the eldest said before he began to disappear. "Oh and by the way, the name's Xuthus."

And with that the eldest vanished causing the horn to sound signalling the end of the of the match causing the crowd to cheer. Suddenly a grate opened up so I walked over to it and exited the arena.

---

Whoa, sounds like those children of Ares gave you a run for your money," Spike said.

"They did and if Xuthus didn't throw in the towel, I most likely would have been pulverised," I said.

"That fight wasn't fair to begin with at all," Applejack said.

"No, it was how I organized it. I challenged all of them so I'd fight all of them," I said.

"Went in a little over your head huh. In fact that's the first time I've heard of your arm breaking like that," Rage said.

"Yeah, even I was shocked. It was the first time I ever bore witness to a sword stance strike," I said.

"Tell us about it, that sounds awesome!" Rainbow shouted.

"Rainbow please. Ash darling, could you instead just tell us what happened next," Rarity asked.

"Alright, well the next thing I did was go take a bath because I worked up a sweat with the fighting," I said.

"Oh...dear," Rarity said with a blush causing a few to snicker while Rainbow, Pinkie and Gilda bust a gut laughing.

"Good call Rarity," Gilda laughed.

---

Resume Flashback

---

I was in the bathhouse with a towel wrapped around my waist covering my groin. My arm was restored when I left the arena so right now I was using the Japanese routine to wash myself. Once I finished rinsing the soap suds from my body with the basin I removed the towel and stepped into the really warm water. I enjoyed the water for several minutes before I stretched my arms out.

"Oh man I needed this," I said as I sat at the edge of the round bath.

I still couldn't get over the fact that this place looked like the bathhouse from the movie 'Spirited Away'. I was on one of the upper floor baths in a secluded bath for privacy.

"Hey Ash!"

"Jesus!" I shouted as I quickly tried to cover my crotch and turned to the door where I saw Zyt and Saniel walking in.

"No but good guess," Zyt said before he jumped into the bath, splashing me with water and causing me to shield my face.

"I apologise Ash," Saniel said as he slid the door closed. "Zyt has no knowledge of how to behave in a place like this."

"What are you two doing here?" I asked as I relaxed a little.

"Relax man, we just wanted to congratulate you on your awesome victory," Zyt said.

"Indeed twas an outcome no one saw coming," Saniel said.

"How'd my opponents take it?" I asked.

"You don't know?" Zyt asked.

"After the fight I came straight here because of the sweat I worked up," I said.

"Well no one had heard from them since they vanished from the arena," the familiar voice of Washu said.

"Washu, what the heck!? Where are you?" I asked looking around for the blue haired girl.

"Up here," Washu said.

Following the sound I looked at the top of the wall and saw Washu looking down at us.

"Oi, ever heard of privacy between genders!" I shouted trying to cover my manhood.

"Please not like it's anything I've never seen before," Washu said causing me to raise an eyebrow at her.

"She does this a lot," Saniel said.

"Well it's not like I have no problem with it," Zyt said.

"Easy for you to say, only thing you wear is a shirt," I said.

"Hey cool, you got some seriously wicked scars on you," Washu said causing me to submerge my entire body.

"You say she does this a lot?" I asked.

"Yeah, almost every time we bathe she and the others always get in the bath next door and Washu always peeks," Saniel said.

"It's not like I'm complaining or anything but isn't it the guys who should peek?" Zyt asked.

"I'm not gonna even respond to that," I said before I looked at Washu. "And you, any reason why your doing this?"

"Because there's no rule stopping me from doing it. Why do you think there's no sturdy walls that separate the guys and girls in this place," Washu said with a smirk.

"Geeze, ya might as well invite them all over," I said to myself.

"Hey that's an idea," Washu said before she disappeared from view.

"That wasn't a suggestion Washu!" I shouted.

Soon afterword the door opened and Washu dragged in Zoa, Karen and Alice, all having towels wrapped around them, before she tossed them into the water with us.

"Damnit Washu!" Karen shouted as she resurfaced.

"What, Ash invited us to join," Washu said.

"I said nothing of the sort. You just twisted my words to your own benefit you lunatic!" I shouted.

"Eh semantics," Washu shrugged.

"Honestly Washu, your antics will one day get you into trouble," Zoa said.

"Well as long as no one says anything then I won't," Washu said.

"And what makes you think I won't?" Saniel asked.

"Please your too pure for that, Zyt is fine either way and Ash...Yeah I got nothing," Washu said.

"And what about us?" Karen asked.

"Oh don't pretend you don't enjoy bathing with a couple of cute boys Karen," Washu said.

"I-I don't, this sort of thing isn't proper," Karen protested as she turned away ending the conversation and causing all of us to sit in silence

"Hey Ash, tell me something about those scars?" Zyt asked as he gestured to my torso.

"What about them?" I asked emotionlessly.

"How'd you get them?" Zyt asked.

"I'll admit, after watching you in the arena even I'm curious. We all know your skilled with a weapon so we know your a warrior of sorts," Karen said.

"Um," I started.

"Now what's all this then?"

Looking at the door we saw it was the goddess Artemis herself. She had golden hair tied into a bun and she wore a crown upon her head. She also wore a plain toga that reached her knees.

"I wasn't aware we allowed mixed bathing here," Artemis said.

"Lady Artemis, this isn't what it looks like," Karen said.

"Oh and how is this supposed to look?" Artemis asked.

"Ash invited us," Washu said trying to throw me under the bus.

"Urgh and I told you Washu, you heard what you wanted to hear and barged in dragging Zoa, Karen and Alice with you," I growled.

"Y'know...If I didn't know any better, I'd say you would be the one making this up Ash," Artemis said while she glared at me causing me to shrink into the tub. "But since I do know Ash better and know he tries to avoid trouble, especially on his first day, also the fact that Saniel has informed me of what you've been up to Washu, I'm more entitled to believe them then you Washu."

"Uh-oh," Washu said before she was levitated out of the bath and wrapped in a towel by Artemis.

"As for the rest of you, this tub was being used by Ash alone. So you'll just have to find another one to use," Artemis said.

"Aw but us three are guys, can't we stay?" Zyt asked only for Artemis to glare at him and causing him to gulp.

"I have no intention of repeating myself," Artemis growled.

"Sorry ma'am," Zyt whimpered.

With that Artemis left with Washu and Zoa, Alice and Karen leaving behind them then followed by Saniel and Zyt, leaving me alone. After a few minutes it was then I realized just how big the bath was. Suddenly something covered my eyes and I heard a feminine giggle before I could panic.

"Guess who?"

"Gee, only been here a day and someone expects me to know their name," I said.

"Aww you wound me, we met before," the voice said before she removed whatever it was that covered my eyes, which was her hands.

Upon turning around, I was met with a stunningly beautiful woman. She wore a blue toga that reached her legs and had dark brown hair that hung over her shoulder and was tied into a braid.

"Aphrodite," I said.

"Oh now he figures it out," Aphrodite said with a giggle.

"Tell me, what brings the goddess of love here?" I asked as I turned back to the water.

"Oh, I thought I might take a bath," Aphrodite said.

"Take a bath huh any reason why your with me telling me that?" I asked.

"Isn't it obvious...I'm here to bathe with you," Aphrodite said as she stepped into the water completely naked.

"Uh...but...huh!" I stuttered when Aphrodite submerged into the bath right next to me.

"I can tell seeing the bare body of a goddess is quite an experience Ash...Tell me would, you like to get a hands on experience?" Aphrodite asked the last part in a whisper right next to my ear.

"Forgive me Aphrodite but no, I already have feelings for someone," I said as I moved away calmly but this only caused Aphrodite to laugh.

"That kind of loyalty is quite a rare treasure to come by these days, your beloved is quite the lucky one. However...that only makes me desire you more," Aphrodite said.

"Then I'm afraid your gonna be disappointed," I said.

"Perhaps but in all seriousness I came to inform you that you're being placed in a higher class, Class 8-A," Aphrodite said.

"What?" I asked in shock.

"Yeah, apparently we misjudged your abilities so we're advancing you to a higher class," Aphrodite said.

"Why didn't I get this bit of news sent to me through the data pad?" I asked.

"We believed it would be best if it came directly from a teacher's mouth instead of just a silly device. That way you wouldn't think of this as some kind of prank," Aphrodite said.

"And the whole bathing and teasing me?" I asked.

"Oh that was just a bonus for me," Aphrodite giggled causing me to sigh in frustration. "Oh don't be so down Ash, not like anyone can say they bathed with a goddess."

"I think I've been in here long enough," I said as I got out of the tub and began to dry myself off.

"Mm-mm, she's very lucky indeed," Aphrodite said but I just ignored her.

"Thank you for the message Aphrodite but if you'll excuse me, I must be on my way," I said as I got dressed into some casual clothing.

I then made my way to the door and opened it just enough to for me to get out so no one saw Aphrodite. But as soon as I opened the door a massive crowd of female students collapsed upon the floor before me.

"Oh, I forget to mention your quite popular among the students because of what you did earlier," Aphrodite giggled.

"Damn it," I muttered before I looked around for an escape and looked at the walls that only went up so high.

I then began to climb over the walls while the students were dazed and distracted by the goddess of love.

"Lady Aphrodite, what are you doing here?" one of the students asked.

"Oh I was just enjoying the company of my bathing partner," Aphrodite giggled causing the students to blush.

"Goddess, did you...?" a student began to ask but trailed off.

"Why don't you ask him before he get's away," Aphrodite said as she gestured to me while I was on top of the thin and flimsy wall.

I said nothing before I jumped off the wall onto the walkway between the bathes and the railing that prevents anyone from falling down to the lobby below.

"Get Him!" one of the students shouted.

I then ran down the walkway as the students began to chase after me causing several students to peek out of the bath's to see what the commotion was all about. I then saw another crowd of students block my path. So quickly, I began to look for an opening and found one. I then leapt onto the railing and off it and onto a wall and leapt and swung my way down till I reached the lobby floor. When I looked up I saw everyone was staring at me. So I just gave everyone a two finger salute before I ran out of the bath house.

---

"Hahahaha even if you leave Equestria, the girls never stop chasing ya all over the place," Soarin laughed along with all the other guys and some of the girls in the room.

"Mmm and they were persistent too, but I'll get to that in a bit," I said.

"So Ash about Aphrodite...How'd she look?" Thunderlane asked.

"You sure you wanna be asking me that?" I asked with a raised eyebrow as I looked and saw Rarity glaring at him.

"I just wanna know what was going through your mind. I mean seriously, in a bath with a freaking naked goddess, you know how many guys would do anything to be in that position," Thunderlane said.

"I can only guess but would you be one of them?" I asked.

"I don't need to imagine, I already have a goddess as my marefriend," Thunderlane said as he pulled Rarity close.

"Good answer," Rarity hummed as she cuddled up next to Thunderlane.

"You must have had quite a time Ash," Faust giggled.

"Alright moving on," I said.

---

Resume Flashback

---

I was walking towards the campus main dining room and upon entering I saw thousands upon thousands of tables all with a pristine white table cloth, polished silverware bright white plates, and perfectly clear glasses. Surrounding the tables were seats and each one had a student either eating or talking. I then walked forward through the rows of tables causing all the students to stop and stare at me as I walked past.

"Hey Ash, over here!"

Looking for the voice I spotted Washu waving me over frantically just like Pinkie Pie. With a smile I walked over and sat in between Zyt and Saniel.

"Hey guys, thanks for saving me a seat," I said as I sat down.

"No problem Ash," Saniel said.

"Now then you wanna tell us what all that climbing crap was about?" Karen asked.

"Oh you all saw that," I said with a lame chuckle.

"Dude, you may not have wings but you were born to fly after that leap off the railing," Zyt said.

"Yes, Zyt speaks true. It was truly a spectacle to see that," Zoa said.

"I'm just hoping me being chased everywhere by the girls doesn't become a thing," I said.

"Dude you're the luckiest son of a gun here and here you are complaining about it. I mean what's up with that dude?" Zyt asked.

"It's a...personal reason," I said as I squeezed my left hand, more importantly the ring on my left ring finger.

"So Ash, an interesting little rumour has been going around that your Aphrodite's newest plaything, since she was seen with you in the bath," Washu said causing me and the others to blush.

"Dude!" Zyt yelled

"Hey, keep it down Zyt and no, those rumours are false. She was just there to give me a message about me getting put in a new class," I said.

"Really?" Zoa asked.

"Yeah, Class 8-A," I said causing everyone to stare at me. "What?"

"Ash, that's the same class we're all in," Saniel said.

"Well would you look at that," I said as I began to look through my menu of what to have and after a few minutes I made a selection.

We then went on talking for what felt like hours, sharing stories with each other till our food arrived. I then retired to my room to read before settling down to slumber.

Upon waking early the next morning I was confused as to where I was before remembering all that happened to me. I then got up and checked my timetable for classes today before I went out for a run around the school. While I was out I saw Artemis was up as well for a morning jog.

"Morning Artemis," I greeted as I ran past the goddess.

"Ash?" Artemis asked as she caught up to me.

"Yep, out for a morning run?" I asked.

"Indeed as are you I take it?" Artemis asked.

"Yeah, how long?" I asked.

"eight K, you?" Artemis asked.

"Same, after this I was gonna go get some grub before hitting the gym and then a wash before I head to my classes today," I said.

"Wow and here I thought I liked to be active," Artemis said.

"Heh yeah well, despite all this I'm not a total fitness buff. I prefer to be fit enough that it may be noticeable but not all around bulging muscle, otherwise it affects my mobility," I said as I started jogging backwards to face Artamis.

"I won't argue with you there. Now eyes ahead, your making me look bad newbie," Artemis said causing me to chuckle.

"Any way, I just finished my run guess I'll see you later," I said.

"See ya Ash," Artemis said before I began to jog away to grab some breakfast.

Once breakfast was done I headed for the gym for my workout before taking a wash. Just as I finished putting my clothes on the bell rang for everyone to head to class causing me to hurry. As it turns out, my first class was for magic which caused me to smile before I headed off to my class. As soon as I entered the door I saw a large semi-circle room with the tables and chairs set up just like in my last class with stairs and two seats at a desk. Only, for this room, there were five rows of desks going horizontally and vertically with a single desk and chair at the back of the room. While at the front of the room, before the blackboard, was a large desk for the teacher and it seemed to be littered with papers and knick knacks. Also the roof of the room looked like the one from Harry Potter in the school's dinning/assembly hall; an illumination of the sky only this one showed the galaxy. While looking around the room I saw shelves filled with books and all sorts of gadgets and gizmos that seemed...familiar to me.

"Ash, over here!"

Turning to the voice my eyes spot my friends from yesterday sitting among three of the back two rows in the upper right corner. So I make my way over to them with a smile on my face.

"Ash that's your desk from now on. Sorry your the only one in it though," Saniel said as he gestured to the desk left of theirs.

"It's cool," I said before I took my seat and waited for class to start before a question arose in my mind. "So this teacher, is it a god or goddess of magic or something because the only teachers I've seen so far are gods and goddesses."

"No our teacher is a mortal alright. In fact in life he was a famous wizard known in a pretty well known legend," Karen said.

"Really, who is it?" I asked when suddenly the bell rang beginning the school day.

Everyone in the class who wasn't sitting then took a seat and I noticed the single desk was soon occupied by a girl who looked seventeen years old and she seemed to be fiddling with a spark of lightning in one hand before she looked at me and our eyes made contact. Her stare then hardened as if she was looking at me like I was a bug. So I decided to turn my gaze away and ignore her. Suddenly the classroom door opens and in walks a man who made my eyes widen in familiarity. He was wearing midnight blue and gold robes and was using a walking stick with a sapphire like orb on the end of it. He also had a wizard hat that matched his robes. It had a wide brim and large gold band with a midnight blue pattern on it upon the base of the cone of the hat. The figure looked old and wrinkly and had quite a beard and moustache on his face with long white hair going down the sides of his face. all of which was white as snow.

"Merlin," I whispered.

"Hoo."

Looking at the source of the sound I saw a brown owl with black feathers here and there on it's body staring at me. I looked the nocturnal bird over a few times before a smile appeared on my face.

"Hello Archimedes," I said with a smile as I held my hand out for the old bird.

"Hoo," Archimedes said as he hoped onto my hand so I could pet him.

"Yeah, It's good to see you too," I said with a smile.

Suddenly the door was flung in and a girl ran in. She leaned forward and had her hands upon her knees while she was trying to catch her breath. She had long silver hair that covered her face before she flung her hair back over her head and stood up straight, revealing a pair of hazel brown eyes and a face like an angel. It was also a face I knew which brought me happiness, sadness, shame and fear.

"Miss Jessica, rushing in at the last minute," Merlin said.

"I'm sorry sir...my alarm was broken...and I-," Jessica began.

"Nevermind my dear, if you would take your seat class can begin. Archimedes," Merlin called causing the owl perched upon my arm to fly off and onto a perch beside the teacher's desk, but my eyes never left the girl who just entered the room. I watched her as she walked up the stairs and took a seat two rows down from my desk and in the row to my right before Merlin brought my attention back to him. "Now first thing's first, we have a new student here that needs no introduction because of his victory yesterday," Merlin said causing everyone to clap while I tried to remain unnoticed by Jessica before Merlin signalled everyone to quiet down. "Yes, yes an impressive spectacle. Now if I can have everyone open their textbooks to page one-sixty-six."

Doing as I was asked I took my book out and turned to the required page before glancing at Jessica and hoped she wouldn't notice me.

---

Wait a sec, Jessica. As in the same Jessica from when you got your...," Rage started before he tapped the area around his right eye and causing me to nod.

"What gives Ash, you should be ecstatic to see her again," Pinkie said as she threw her hands up.

"I would have been...If I hadn't defiled her," I said as I looked away in shame.

"Ash...what do you mean by that?" Celestia asked.

*sigh* "Twilight, do you remember when you tried to bring me back through alchemy?" I asked causing Twilight to look away from me in shame.

"I do and I'm sorry about that," Twilight said.

"Anyway, you remember how you learned about it?" I asked.

"Yeah, it was the transmutation circle over your eye and you said you gave...up...your heart," Twilight said as she and everyone else had looks of realization on their faces.

"Yeah I was willing to perform the taboo to bring my friend back. Not only that, I broke my promise...Could only imagine how she felt about such a thing," I said.

---

Resume Flashback

---

*Ding Dong Dong Ding*

"Alright class that will be all for today. Pack up your kit and move onto your break," Merlin said as everyone began packing up. As everyone shuffled towards the door I made sure to avoid Jessica seeing me till Merlin spoke up. "Ash, could you stay for a minute please."

"Yes sir," I said changing my direction to the teachers desk.

I stood in silence before my teacher's desk before he walked around the desk and stood before me. We stood in silence before Merlin placed his hands upon my shoulders causing me to look up and see him smiling at me before he brought me in for a hug, one I gladly returned.

"It's good to see you my boy...You've grown both physically and mentally since I last saw you," Merlin said.

"And you haven't changed a bit...apart from growing your beard longer," I said causing the pair of us to laugh.

"Look at you Ash, a god and hero throughout time. I knew you were destined for great things Ash but you exceeded even my expectations," Merlin said.

"Thank you sir...And I kinda missed hearing the sound of your voice during our lectures. To be here listening to you...Brings back fond memories," I said with a warm smile before I stepped out of the hug.

"Excuse me Professor Merlin, I forgot my...!"

Recognizing the voice, I felt my body tense up before I slowly turned around and faced Jessica.

"Ash?" Jessica asked upon seeing me.

Next Chapter: Chapter 37 School Life For A God Part 2 Estimated time remaining: 17 Hours, 57 Minutes