9:36 am Aephoceria Clocktower Ash's P.O.V.

---

It was the end of Heat Season and me and the guys were packing up our gear before leaving the tower to return home.

"Damn, I can't believe we all got caught by our marefriends/wives," Soarin said as he packed away his sleeping bag.

"I'm just glad it was our marefriends and not some random chick, can already imagine Rarity's face if she found out I bucked and impregnated a random mare," Thunderlane said with a shudder.

"Agreed but Twilight's no push over either. Hate to ever make her mad," Comet said.

"Twilight, you should be worried about what I'd do if I fond out about it," Shining said.

"You both think that's bad, imagine doing that to a female thestal night guard," Spike said causing a few to cringe and nod admitting defeat.

Suddenly I hear snoring on the opposite end of the room and I see Rage is still sawing logs.

"Still out of it huh?" I asked.

"Yep but then again I wouldn't blame him. I mean if I had to pleasure a goddess of chaos even I would be tired," Holy Light said.

"Well we can't lay around all day, still got that dinner at Paradise Acres tonight," I said as I stood up and walked over to Rage and gave him a kick to wake him. "Get up lazy bones.

"Huh...ugh wha- Ash can't this wait until three?" Rage asked before rolling over in the sleeping bag to go back to sleep.

"No now c'mon, we have a party to get to today at Paradise Acres," I said as I kicked him again.

"Geeze alright, alright I'm up," Rage said as he sat up.

"Hey where's Elisa and Evo?" Swift Spear asked.

"They took off early. Now then pack up whatever crap you brought here, we're out in ten," I said as I clapped my hands before I went back to packing up my gear.

Once I was done with everything I teleported out of the tower and into the master bedroom where I began to put everything away. I then looked at my watch and saw I still had time before the party so I decided to visit the dungeons and see how Apollyon was doing. I teleported to the dungeons entrance and the first thing I saw was three eternal fire guardians were at the door instead of four.

"Were's the fourth?" I asked.

"εσωτερικό με πρίγκιπα μικροσκοπικός μαγνήτης επιβήτορα (inside with prince Pipsqueak sire)," one of the guardians said causing my eyes to widen.

Pushing past the guards I rushed down the steps and saw the cells containing prisoners and each one was looking down the hall towards the back. At the bottom of the stairs on each side of the doorway was a hell hound both keeping a fierce gaze on the cells and when I entered all the prisoners moved away from the bars. Giving the hell hounds a quick pat I then walked past the cells and I began to hear voices as I approached the back and around a corner, both of them sounding familiar. Peeking around the corner I saw Pip sitting outside a single solitary cell with the flame guardian by his side and inside the cell was the person I originally came down here to see, Apollyon, still wearing her full armor and being illuminated by torch light.

"-that Warden held his ground against the vikings as they came at him with the force of a flood but from what I was told he was able to push them back turning the tide of the battle in the Iron Legion's favour and effectively seizing victory. It was after the battle that I heard about it and it was at that moment that I knew he may be the greatest warrior the knights had, greater then me in my skill," Apollyon said finishing her tale of when I was sent to aid Stone and the Iron Legion.

"Whoa what was the Warden's name?" Pip asked.

"Pip," I said choosing that moment to interrupt.

"Dad!" Pip shouted in surprise as he spun around to face me.

"Pip, I thought I told you you're not allowed down here," I said sternly.

"Sorry Dad. I was playing hide and seek with the others and I decided to hide here," Pip said as he kicked a loose rock away while looking down in shame so I kneeled down and brought him in for a hug.

"I'm not angry at you Pip but when I heard you were down here, despite having a guard, I was still worried," I said as I hugged him.

"I understand dad I won't come down here anymore," Pip said.

"Alright now I believe your friends are looking for you," I said as I released Pip from the hug.

Pip then gave me a nod before he turned around and gave Apollyon a bow before he left. The guardian also gave me a bow before he too left leaving me with Apollyon.

"Son?" Apollyon asked as I sat down on a stool I summoned.

"Yes," I said.

"I must say you have some pretty exotic tastes," Apollyon said, her voice full of snark.

"Is that jealousy in your tone Apollyon," I snarked back causing her to snort dismissively. "For the record Apollyon, I have no regrets on who I shared my bed and life with here and you're words mean little to me when it comes to insults."

"So I see," Apollyon said before we sat in silence. "Your son told me you're a king and god here."

"Yeah...by the way, it lasted seven years," I said.

"What?" Apollyon asked.

"The war you started, it went on for seven years and a lot of crazy happened. We were reinforced by Centurions and Gladiators while the Warborn called in Highlanders and Shamen and the Dawn Empire called in Aramusha even the Shinobi came out of the shadows to fight," I said causing Apollyon to chuckle.

"So the myths were true," Apollyon chuckled.

"There were others," I said gaining Apollyon's attention. "The Wu Lin marched into our lands as well and went to war against all of us.

"My I never imagined that even the great Wu Lin warriors would become involved in my war," Apollyon said.

"Hmph well I'm glad your enjoying this news," I said.

"So what else is there? I know you wouldn't have come all the way down here just to tell me about what happened back then," Apollyon said.

"You're right...as you no doubt guessed we're at war...and I need a general who knows how to lead," I said as I looked at Apollyon.

"You must be desperate if you're asking me this," Apollyon said.

"Unlike my current officers you can think outside the box, be unpredictable, my soldiers are strong-," I started.

"Oh yes very impressive but they still fell before me despite the fight they put up. They have plenty of will but their skill was just above average," Apollyon said dismissively.

"Those...we're recruits," I said causing Apollyon's head to turn to look at me so fast I heard her neck crack.

"Recruits?" Apollyon asked.

"In fact you were the first threat those guys had faced," I said.

"Interesting despite their soft appearance they have the feel and skills of a predator," Apollyon said.

"Oh now she's impressed," I said.

"So what have you to offer if I actually say yes?" Apollyon said.

"Redemption for one...Most of your sins gone and a pass into heaven and as a bonus you get to spill the blood of the guilty and the deserving. May even get to see some true predators in action like say...a dragon," I said causing Apollyon to look at me once more and it was at that moment I knew I convinced her.

"And if I say no?" Apollyon asked.

"Well it's back to hell for you," I said causing her to look away from me.

"I'll consider it," Apollyon said.

"Alright then give a guard a shout when you've decided," I said before I left.

Once I was outside I saw Pip was outside with the rest of the CMC and both Luna and Moon were scolding Pip about the dungeons, which I intervened explaining that I had already dealt with it which they nodded to before greeting me with a kiss. We all made our way over to Paradise Acres and were greeted by the entire Apple Family, many prepping tables and chairs outside on the grass while others prepared the food.

"Why don't you kids go have fun, we'll be at the table chatting with everyone else," I said as I gestured to the foals to go on ahead.

"Thanks dad," Pip said as he and the foals ran off.

"And try and keep yourselves clean!" I shouted after the foals.

Luna, Moon and I then went over to the table and after pulling the chairs out for my wives I sat down on the left of them with Moon sitting closer.

"Oh hey you three."

Turning to face the voice I saw it was both Eris and Rage.

"Oh hey you two, was hoping you hadn't fallen asleep again," I said with a smirk.

"Ha ha you're hilarious," Rage said as he sat down with Eris opposite of us.

"So where's little Loki?" I asked.

"Dad's taking care of him said he'd feel out of place being here," Eris said.

"Aw that's a shame, I was hoping he'd put on some form of entertainment tonight. Can always count on him to liven up a party in some shape or form like at the Grand Galloping Gala," Luna said.

"Wow Luna you speak like you haven't seen him in months or years," I said with a smirk.

"I take it Midnight is also back at the palace?" Rage asked.

"Yeah it was his nap time and despite him being a toddler he still needs his rest," I said.

"Fair enough," Rage said with a nod.

Soon one by one everyone arrived and settled down to eat with the kids sitting at their own table away from the adults table, both Tempest and Spitfire were sitting on my left. During our meal Granny Smith made a toast to the new generation of foals that would be born although me, Rage, Elisa and Evan all knew the truth that them females that were pregnant before we rescued them would have a hard time knowing the origins of the children they bear. I've even ordered all the doctors and nurses in the kingdom to keep their eyes open to make sure nothing rash or regrettable was done to any newborns but despite what we knew and hoped would never happen, we kept up a smile and stood ready for whatever may come our way.

"So Spit's you were pretty loud that day when you had Ash all to yourselves. Tell me, what out of his box of tricks did he pull out to make you scream like that," Rainbow asked causing me to almost choke on my cider from the question.

"If you must know he actually split into four and turned into anything we requested. I got a dragon and he rammed me till I lost all feeling in my legs. Moon got Bones, Luna got an alicorn and Tempest got a lamia," Spitfire said causing every mare at the table to blush like crazy, including me.

"Miss Spitfire please there are children close by and you Rainbow Dash you shouldn't be asking such questions," Rosa said as she gestured to the kids.

"Don't seemed too interested in us but with their own conversation," Rage said earning a glare from Rosa.

"Wait, wait, wait what the hey is a lamia?" Rainbow asked.

"A creature with the top half being human and the tail of a snake waist down," Moon said.

"Whoa Tempest, now that's an interesting fetish," Gilda laughed.

"Wait did you say Ash split into four, so he did you all at the same time?" Dream Catcher asked.

"Ugh kill me now," I said as I rubbed my head.

"Dude making us look bad here," Shining said.

"Hm might have to try extra hard next time so I can try you out," Celestia said giving me the predator bedroom eyes causing Luna, Moon, Spitfire and Tempest to grab hold of me tightly.

"Even I'm curious of what he can do," Cadence said giving me the same look Celestia had earning a glare from Shining.

"I feel we came back a few days early," I said.

"Alright enough of this please!" Rosa shouted.

"Ah agree with Rosa, this is not something to discuss at the dinner table," Faust said sternly and Granny Smith nodded in agreement.

"Sorry ma'am," the mares said as they bowed their heads.

"So what should we all talk about?" Rainbow asked.

"Hm does anyone have anything they want to declare?" I asked.

At first nothing was said till Fluttershy raised her hand.

"Well go on Fluttershy, we're all ears and you can speak your mind here," I said.

"Um...uh...I'm...pregnant," Fluttershy said.

"Could you repeat that darling I'm afraid we couldn't hear a word," Rarity said.

"I heard," I said as I smiled at the timid pegasus. "She's with child."

At first everyone was dumbstruck but Big Mac's fur paled in shock at the words. The table then erupted in cheers and the mane six gathered together in a group hug while me and the guys patted and congratulated Big Mac.

"I'm...I'm gonna be a daddy," Mac said before he picked Fluttershy up and spun her around and brought her in for a hug. "I'm gonna be a Daddy!"

Everyone then clapped and cheered as the two kissed and hugged.

"Well anyone else?" I asked.

"Uh ah'm also pregnant," Applejack said as she raised her hand causing everyone to cheer while Caramel rushed over and kissed Applejack on the lips before hugging her and they were soon surrounded in a hug by Mac, Granny and Apple Bloom.

"I'm also pregnant," Twilight said before she was surrounded in a hug from Cadence, Shining and Comet while we all cheered.

"So three of you six are gonna be parents," Rage said with a smile.

"This is fantastic. I can only imagine Velvet's face when she hears the news," Cadence said causing Twilight's smile to fade at the mention of her still missing parents.

"Hey Twi don't be so glum, we'll find them. Hell I betcha that Ash, Rage, Elisa and Evo will find them sooner then you think," Comet said causing Twilight to perk up once again.

"We will find them Twi I swear this to you and to you Shining Armor. We will find them and we will not give up till we do," I said.

"Thank you Ash to all of you, it means a lot," Shining said.

"Now then who else is willing to share, raise your hand," Rage said and after a couple of seconds of silence Moon raised her hand. If the cheers were loud before these cheers could rival the Royal Canterlot Voice.

"Are you kidding me?" I asked as I got up with a smile and hugged Moon close before kissing her on the lips.

"A new sibling!" Pip cried in joy as he ran into our legs and hugged us.

"Uh Moon, Luna there's something I want to discuss with you both privately," I said as I pulled away from Moon to look at the two alicorns.

"Okay," Moon said.

Lead on," Luna said before we walked away from the party so we were sure we wouldn't be eavesdropped on.

"Uh okay here goes. Luna remember when Spitfire slept with us during our first heat season together?" I asked.

"How could I forget," Luna said.

"Well remember when we discussed having a herd and yet I wasn't comfortable with the idea at first?" I asked.

"I remember and I saw the disappointment on Spitfire's face when you told her. I'm glad you said it to her face instead of hiding behind a phone but why are you bringing it up now?" Luna asked.

"Well looking back at it now, I realized that I didn't even give the herd thing a shot, effectively I wasn't giving Spitfire a chance and I realized that was me being selfish," I said.

"Ash we all knew you're world wasn't too keen on group marriages, so we understood if you weren't up for it," Luna said.

"I know but ever since Moon here came into our marriage I have loved the both of you equally and after some thought I'd like to invite Spitfire into it as well," I said.

"Really!" Luna shouted in excitement.

"Yeah after knowing her for so long and also the heat seasons we've had together I would be lying if I said I didn't have a few fantasies about her," I admitted.

*giggle* "I know Ash I've seen your dreams of the both of us," Luna said causing me to blush.

"Okay now that I've told you, what are your thoughts on this matter?" I asked.

"I have no problem whatsoever. If anything it will be fun having her around," Luna said.

"I agree but uh, what about Tempest?" Moon asked.

"Tempest?" I asked.

"Well yeah I've spent some time with her and she told me she is really into you, not for power or your status but just being you," Moon said.

"Hm she does seem rather close to Spitfire and she has an excellent personality," Luna said as she brought a finger to her chin in thought.

"And I know she enjoys a couple of things you both like...alright then I'll ask and we'll see how it goes from there," I said before we returned to the party.

---

3 Weeks Later Ash's Private Study

---

I was sitting in a chair in my study with a guitar in hand and was tuning it before giving it a few strums to test the sound. I then began to strum the guitar and tap my foot to the beat of a song I once heard about a famous Australian legend from my younger days.

As I sang the song I remembered the days spent in that life and how it all ended. I heard I had an audience but continued to sing and play the guitar till it ended before I turned around and was greeted by Pipsqueak.

"Oh hello Pip what can I do for you?" I asked.

"I just came to let you know that dinner was ready," Pip said.

"Ah good I'll be right there," I said as I got up and put the guitar away before I followed Pip to the dining room.

Once we arrived I walked over and gave a kiss to my four wives before I sat down and ordered my dinner. Spike walked in shortly after and ordered his food before looking around and sighing.

"I see Apollyon still prefers to eat on her own," Spike said.

"She refuses to show anyone her face," Twilight said.

"That's just how she is guys, take it easy on her," I said.

And so everyone went back to talking or eating and I heard everyone exchange small talk about the day. While we ate I saw Pip's eyes flick towards me before going back to his food.

"Pip is something wrong?" I asked gaining the attention of his mothers.

"Well it's just I was curious about the song you were singing back in your study," Pip said.

"Ah well actually that song was about a famous Australian bushranger back in what 1878 to 1880, his name was Ned Kelly," I said.

"Ned Kelly wasn't he that bloke in the armor at his last stand?" Rage asked.

"Yep," I said.

"Ah a real Aussie legend as the locals would say, but most would forget that his farther was an Irishman," Eli said.

"True," I said.

"What's a bushranger, some kind of soldier?" Tempest asked.

"Far from it in fact. A bushranger is the Australian word for outlaw back in those days. In fact Ned was by far the most famous and was the Australian version of Robin Hood," I said causing the foals eyes to light up with excitement.

"Oh now you've done it, they won't go to bed till you tell them the story," Spitfire said.

"Not like I mind, in fact would you all like to hear?" I asked.

"If the story of Robin Hood was good this should be interesting," Applejack said.

"Yeah got that right," Rainbow said.

"I know a few songs about him in fact when I was visiting Australia two years ago," Eli said.

"Alright then I believe our story should begin in 1865 when a young Ned Kelly became the town hero for saving a schoolmate from drowning," I began grabbing everyone's attention immediately.

And believe me they were all hooked on each and every word and were shocked on how Ned and his family were treated by the Victorian Police for the single bad deed done by Red Kelly (Ned's father). How Fitzpatrick wrongly accused Ned Kelly of shooting him when he wasn't even on the scene at the time. I told them each and every detail from Stringybark Creek to their last stand at the Glenrowan Hotel.

"And despite there being 32'000 signatures to pardon Ned he was sentenced to death by hanging. But before he swung his last words were 'Such is Life' he died on 11th of November 1880 he was 25 years old," I said finishing the tale.

"So young," Celestia said in shock.

"Aye," I nodded.

"Wow Ash you told the tale as if you were a part of it," Twilight said.

"Well I was in a way. I was one of the ahem 'hostages' in the hotel in Glenrowan when the Kelly Gang came to town, you see I traveled from America to Australia for a...task when it all happened. When Ned Kelly drew the police's fire from the front Dan ordered us to escape from the back. However when we tried to leave the police opened fire on us, killing several people but in a strange twist of fate I wasn't one of them," I said.

"Sweet merciful, none of my guards would have done that," Shining muttered in disgust.

"Not defending them or nothing Shining but it was night time and it was raining pretty hard when the shootout went down," I said.

"It's not an excuse, what those police did was reckless. Civilian safety should have been their number one priority," Shining said.

"Fair point," I said.

"Hey dad you know any other songs of Ned Kelly?" Pip asked.

"Hm I think I know a few but let me play one of my favourites," I said as I summoned a banjo and began to play a song.

As I plucked the strings on the banjo I saw Pip sway his head in time with the beat before I finished.

"Ah how I missed Australian folk songs," Eli said.

"Well want to sing one for us?" I asked.

"Hm why not after all you only live once, uh except you Ash your an exception," Eli said.

"Funny," I said.

"Got a guitar I can use?" Eli asked and with a snap of my fingers a guitar appeared in his hand. "Cheers," Eli said before he gave it a few strums. "Now tell me if you know this one Ash, it's called Old Man Emu."

And just like that I let out a bellowing laugh as the song came to the fore front of my mind.

"Yo what's so funny?" Rainbow asked.

"I hahahaha I...I'm sorry...hahahaha...you'll see so hahaha soon," I said as I tried to stop my laughing before Eli began to play.

As the song went on Eli made some pretty funny voices for each animal causing everyone to laugh along with me and when the song was over we were still laughing.

"Sweet Celestia mah sides hurt," Applejack laughed.

"Are...Are all Australian songs...like this?" Chrysalis asked.

"Not all but they're still fun to listen too," I said with a smile.

"Uh Ash, I just noticed this but, you haven't mentioned this Australia at all since we've known you," Twilight said causing my smile to become a frown.

"Well to tell you the truth, all the times I've lived in Australia had to be some of the greatest times of my life. However there were two events that haunt me as bad as my time as Red Reaper," I said stunning most of the group.

"Thing you should know guys, Australia had to be one of the best countries to live in back then. They were normally peaceful despite originally being a prisoner island. They had a pretty tight bond with each other were everybody knew everybody in town but the Eureka Rebellion or Eureka Stockade. depending on who you ask, and World War one were blood stained blights upon the country," Rage said.

"Eureka Stockade?" Twilight asked.

"Now that you mention it I don't remember World War one being mentioned all that much till now," Rainbow said.

"Those are stories for another day," I said ending the conversation.

"Uh Ash," Applejack began.

"Hm?" I hummed.

"Listen, both Big Mac and I would like to ask yah a favor," Applejack said.

"Eeyup," Big Mac said.

---

Next Day 12:39pm

---

I was at the helm of The Pale Horse as we flew over the countryside heading towards a familiar destination. On board were me and my fellow harbingers along with the mane six from this world and their coltfriends, Spike along with Apple Bloom, Granny Smith, Grand Pear and finally the ship's crew and our destination was...

"Ponyville dead ahead sir!" a voice from the crows nest cried.

Handing the wheel over to one of the crew I made my way onto the deck with the others to prepare for departure. The Apples had asked me to take them here for today was the day their parents were reported dead and they came to visit their graves. So here I was giving them a lift, the rest of the girls and their coltfriends came along with us to offer moral support and my fellow harbingers came along for a just in case situation. Descending onto Sweet Apple Acres the gangplank was then lowered and we all got off the ship.

"Hey before we all begin ya'll mind if I grabbed some things I hid in the house?" Mac asked.

"Sure," I said before all the males walked into the house and once inside I saw the place was more like a business office then the home I once knew. "This reeks of Flim and Flam's work."

"Eeyup when Diann came to power those two descended on this place like a pair of vultures. I'm just lucky I managed to save some important family mementos," Mac said as he pulled away a rug in the family room revealing a trapdoor which Big Mac opened.

"So you stashed this all away, just how did you keep this all hidden?" Rage asked looking at all the boxes stored inside.

"Them two swindlers weren't all too bright," Mac said with a smirk.

With a nod we began to pull the boxes out of the secret room before storing them on The Pale Horse before joining the others who led us deep into the western orchid. Eventually we came across a stunning sight; on our right were row upon row of apple trees and on the left were pear trees and both sides stood like silent sentinels watching over a pair of trees, one an apple tree and the other a pear tree. Both were twisting around each other, forever intertwining them. The branches of both trees formed a perfect cut out of a love heart and at the base of the tree was a rock trapped between the trunks and on the stone were two pictures placed in a love heart. One was a jar and the other was half an apple like Mac however this one had a star on it and I've seen enough pictures to know those pictures were actually cutie marks. Realizing who they belonged to I took a breath, I could feel a tremendous amount of love being poured into this place like no other.

"This is where you're parents got married but why did you bury them here?" Twilight asked.

"Twi I told you we never actually buried them because we never found their bodies so not much use crying over an empty box being put in the ground. Since we never found them we figured they were still out there just waiting to be found and this place makes us feel...closer to them in a way," Applejack said.

"Uh Applejack I don't wanna bu...hey!" Rainbow shouted when I nudged her in the side with my elbow but before she could go into a rant a single glare delivered the message loud and clear to her.

"No it's alright Ash I guess we're just too stubborn to admit it," Applejack said.

"There is nothing wrong with holding onto that belief Applejack, just as long as you don't let in consume you," I said.

"If we aren't here to mourn them then why are we here?" Spike asked.

"Well today was the day they went missing so we come here to remember them and prey they come home safely. Also whenever something big happens to us we come here and share what ever it is and hope they can hear us," Applejack said causing a few to stare at her strangely. "Ah know ah know it sounds alot like mourning them but it's totally different."

"Of course darling we understand," Rarity said.

"We'll just be over here when your done," I said as I gestured to a pile of rocks before most of the group went over to it while the Apples along with Fluttershy and Caramel went over to the tree.

"It's kind of sweet when you think about it how they believe their parents will one day come back," Rarity said.

"I agree," Twilight said.

"Seems misguided to me," Rainbow said.

"Rainbow that's enough out of you," Rarity scolded.

I just rolled my eyes as the two got into a little spat but luckily we were far enough to not disturb the group by the tree. Suddenly I felt a tugging on one of my pants legs and when I looked down I saw it was a red and white furred fox with a beautiful bushy tail.

"Oh hello what can I do for you," I asked as I got onto a knee and leaned towards the fox before it told me what it needed to tell me causing my lips to form a line and my eyes to sharpen. "Thank you,"

And with that the fox bowed before it scampered off.

"What did the fox say?" Rainbow asked.

"Ring-ding-ding a ding-di- ~," Rage began to sing earning a slap on the back of the head from Elisa while Evan laughed and I couldn't help but smirk.

"No! None of that. Shame on you," Elisa said sternly.

"Jeez what crawled up your ass and died, it's all in good fun," Rage said earning him a punch in the chest.

"Uh wanna fill us in?" Soarin asked.

"Later and as for what the fox said seems a band of caribou raiders are in the area looting whatever valuables they can from abandoned houses," I said as I stood up.

"Oh of course those sick fucks would just happen to show up," Rainbow groaned.

"Welp let's go to work," Rage said as he stood up.

"No I'll handle this," I said.

"What!" everyone cried out.

"Listen if we all went and they noticed it they'd figure something was seriously wrong," I said as I gestured to the still oblivious group by the tree. "And if it's just me then they won't be as suspicious."

"Uh one thing you seem to be forgetting Ash Applejack can tell when we lie," Pierce said.

"Just tell them I've gone to look around the town, which is true. I'm looking around the town for caribou, I just left the caribou part out," I said.

"Huh cleaver," Comet said.

"I'll be back soon," I said as I left.

Walking into town I saw many bodies scattered about from when I visited as Bones, all of them decaying and leaving a powerful stink in the air that amazed me that it hadn't reached Sweet Apple Acres. Suddenly I hear voices coming from down the street so I hid myself in the shadows of a dark alley and waited for the voices to pass. I saw it was a group of three caribou and I heard them mention about heading back to their camp. So with a quick tilt I cracked my neck before I turned myself into a shadow and followed the group of caribou till they entered my old home causing me to growl before I slipped inside and became invisible. I then locked the mansion with a seal denying anyone entry or exit without my say so before I looked around and saw dozens and dozens of caribou about. Some were drunk and others were merely talking or gazing at the treasures they had taken.

"Hey boss we're back," one of the caribou said as they entered the living room.

Following the group into the room I saw a fat caribou lounging on an a couch with a goblet of wine in his hand. He wore elegant clothes that were too small for him showing his belly and gods above how the bastard stank.

"And how was the patrol?" the fat caribou asked before he took a sip of his wine.

"Quiet sir nothing to report," one of the caribou said as I walked around behind the couch.

"Sir why the hell did you have to get rid of our whore I haven't fucked anything in so long I'm getting blue balls," one of the caribou said making me snap my head towards him giving this bit of info my attention.

"Because she was in heat you moron," the fat caribou said.

"But you said it's exactly when they go into heat that they fuck best," the caribou said causing my fingers to curl into fists and I heard the subtle cracks in them as I tightened them.

"Pfff do you honestly think I was going to allow some low born pony to bear my child? My seed is worthy of only the high born nobility whores, even the whores who once called themselves princesses or the bearers of harmony," the fat caribou said causing my fists to shake in fury.

"Yeah but did you have to kill her you could have just offed the kid so we could continue to use her," one of the caribou said.

That right there set me off. My vision became red and I could tell the temperature in the room had dropped dramatically and I could see the caribou had frozen in pure terror. I then grabbed the fat caribou by the front of his clothes before pulling him up so he was sitting on the couch and before he could scream for help I pushed my hand into his back causing him to scream in agony instead. I then ripped out some of his guts before I wrapped them around his throat and started to strangle the filthy creature with them before tying his guts into a knot so it continues to strangle him.

One of the guards then rushed forward to help his boss but I shoved the bosses antlers into the guard's chest before I set the bastard on fire. I then turned to one of the last two before I stood before him and grabbed him by his antlers and pulled him down towards my rising knee hitting him in the face and breaking his antlers off with ease. I then dropped one of the antlers before I wrapped my left arm around the front of the caribou's neck bringing him in for a reverse headlock before placing his back over my knee. I then used the antler still in my hand like a hook by plunging it into his chest and yanking it downwards tearing his skin open and alowing his guts to spill out in a gory display.

I then looked and saw the last guard try to get away but I teleported in his path and used my right arm to knock him onto his back. It was then I decided to reveal myself and oh how the caribou was scared of me when I did. He then got onto his belly and tried to crawl away but my foot on his shoulder stopped him and it was then that most of my body was covered in Red Reaper's armor. I then used my right hand and shoved it into the caribou's back and grabbed his spine and with a single pull I ripped both his spine and his head out/off of his body before tossing it aside. Suddenly I felt the wolf skull/helmet go over my head and the two halves of the lower jaw to lock into place before I heard the sound of approaching hooves. When I looked I saw dozens of caribou come running into the room but halt dead in their tracks when they saw me. I then felt myself lose control of my body and my conscious begin to fade as the armor took control but before it happened I saw my right arm rise and point at the caribou gathered here.

"Hahahahahaha whose next?" I felt myself ask in a voice that was like my own but not quite so as well before everything faded to black.

---

I awoke to the sound of laughter and saw I was standing before the tree in the forgotten battle field and both Epsilon and Red were sitting within the branches once more the latter was laughing like a madman.

"Oh man, a fine execution. Almost brought me to tears," Red said as he wiped an imaginary tear from his eye.

"Glad your thrilled and if I'm being honest...That felt good," I admitted with a shrug.

"It appears your body will have no problems dispatching the caribou and may I point out it was a wise idea to seal off your original Equestrian home before you engaged the armor," Epsilon said.

"Believe me I had no intention of using it. I'm just thankful that I sealed us in before my temper got out of hand," I said as I sat down.

"Oh and by the way congratulations are in order for your new offspring and wives," Red said with a wolfish grin. (which was very easy to do thanks to the skull shaped helmet)

"Ah yes thank you for reminding me Red Reaper," Epsilon said.

"Wait you heard all that...or did you watch and make the analysis yourself?" I asked as I felt my face turn beet red.

"Well duh we watched but we also heard the conversation at that dinner party," Red said.

"I'm honestly shocked you didn't make your presence known," I said.

"Dude there is nothing worse in the world then an observer announcing their presence to a hot steamy session, like that talk about killing the mood, and those mares didn't count. They knew what was going down and tried to join in," Red said as if it was the most normal thing in the world.

"I am seriously creeped out, you know that right," I said but Red just shrugged.

"Eh but anyway, on a more serious note, you might want to check that black book of yours, you know the one I'm talking about and if you're smart you'll figure it out from there...Oh what am I saying, of course you're that smart this will be a cakewalk for you," Red said.

"What are you talking about?" I asked just as I began to feel my subconscious go back to my body.

"Give your girls our regards," Red said as I vanished.

---

Slowly I then felt control of my body being restored to me before I opened my eyes and looked around at the carnage I wrought and believe me I wrought a lot of carnage. Half the stairs were now a crater with the bloody remains of caribou at the bottom, several walls were gone and some of them had new gory ornaments mounted upon them, much like the chandelier, and bodies lay all over the place.

"Okay after this is over first thing's first, new carpets cause I'm never gonna get the blood out of these," I said as I looked around before breaking the seal and leaving the mansion before remembering what Red said.

Thinking about what Red said I then remembered the book he was talking about which appeared in my hand after summoning it. Now this book was a large book but it had a simple black leather bound cover with no identifiable markings on it. Opening the book I then began flipping through the pages gazing at the contents of the page and at first I saw nothing of significance before I thought back to why Red would bring this book up. It was at this time when suddenly it hit me. Quickly flipping through the book my eyes widened when I saw what Red was talking about.

"Ash!"

On reflex I snapped the book shut and dispelled it before turning to see Rage running over to me.

"Rage what's going on, I thought I told you to stay with the others," I said.

"I know but the Apples, Fluttershy and Caramel have finished up and are ready to return to Aephoceria. Also I felt your bloodlust from there, Elisa and Evan too, we know you let Red loose," Rage said.

"Accidental, one of the caribou said something that made me snap," I said.

"I see well if that's done let's get going," Rage said as he turned to leave.

"Actually Rage, I'm not done here yet there's still some things I have yet to do," I said.

"Like what?" Rage asked.

"I'm not sure yet myself but don't worry, it's nothing that I can't handle," I said.

"Alright I'll go get the others and-," Rage started as he began to head back to Sweet Apple Acres.

"No Rage it may be possible that I could be wrong about this," I said.

"What do you mean?" Rage asked.

"Listen just get everyone back to Aephoceria and if whether this is true or a mistake, I'll explain it back at home," I said.

"Alright then but the others are gonna wanna see what's up and make sure you don't get killed," Rage said

"Rage I'm a god, not a fragile flower that can be blown over by a gentle breeze. I can handle myself," I said.

Rage simply gave me a nod before taking off while I walked down the path and through the town. I saw The Pale Horse take off and leave before continuing on my walk till I came to a canyon that had a river flowing along the bottom. Walking along the edge of the canyon I soon came to a pair of holes in the ground right at the edge of the gorge. Crouching down I ran my hand along the holes before I summoned my shadow wings and jumped into the canyon and followed the river for a few hours till I landed within a forest and began to look around before I walked into the forest. I was just looking around till I happened across a wooden cottage and I saw smoke rising from the chimney. So walking towards the cottage I knocked upon the door three times and waited. I could hear the sound of movement inside before the door opened a bit and I saw a chain on the door and beyond the door was somepony with yellow fur and a red mane and an emerald green eye peeking through the gap to look at me.

"Hi pardon for interrupting I wa-," I started when suddenly the barrel of a gun slid through the gap.

Before I could do anything the gun went off and I felt several objects get blasted into my stomach area bringing me to my knees telling me the gun was a shotgun. I then heard the door close before the chain was slid from it's lock and the door opened once again and when I looked I saw a large stallion that reminded me of Big Mac if Big Mac had Apple Bloom's colours and Applejack's eyes. The stallion wore country attire and on his shoulder was his cutie mark which was half an apple with a star on it informing exactly who this was.

"Bright Mac," I said as I clutched my stomach in pain.

"How'd you know mah name?" the stallion demanded as he aimed the shotgun at my head.

"Careful Mac even when down these things are still dangerous."

Looking at the door my eyes widened in surprise as I saw another stallion at the door. He had blue fur with a darker blue mane and tail with green eyes and he wore dark brown pants with a light tanned long sleeved shirt with a collar and a tan vest. On the vest I saw two crescent moons, one smaller then the other, the larger was yellow while the smaller was white. This picture symbolised his cutie mark and I knew this because I knew this stallion instantly as Night Light a retired member of the Royal Guard and now an astronomer.

"Night Light?" I asked as I stood up with a grunt.

"Watch it!" Night Light shouted as he pointed at me resulting in another bang from the shotgun right to my shoulder.

"Give me that," I said as I grabbed the gun out of Bright Mac's grasp and broke it over my knee shocking the stallions.

"Now what?" Bright Mac asked.

"Now...Plan B," Night Light said as he drew a sword from the house and took a swing at me but, using my hands, I caught the blade and held it in place.

"Night Light stop it's me Ash," I said.

"Ash Blade is dead you cheap imitation," Night Light said before he headbutted me only to stagger back while I was unfazed by the blow. "Whoa that's a hard head you got there," Night Light said in a loopy way before he collapsed.

*sigh* "I see the problem now. Listen I'm not a God Hand, I'm really me not one of those things," I said when suddenly I felt something hit me in the back and when I looked I saw a broken woodcutter axe on the ground but no one was behind me. When the sudden thought came to mind about Night Light being here and not seeming to be corrupted then. "Velvet I know you're here too please I'm no God Hand, I'm really me and if you come on out I can prove it."

Suddenly a beautiful mare with pale white fur and a striped light purple and white mane and tail appeared from within the house. She wore black pants with a white blouse with rolled up long sleeves and her cutie mark was on the pants which were three purple stars.

"Hello Velvet," I greeted as I stepped forward to greet the mare.

"Not another step forward," Velvet growled.

"Okay how about two steps back then?" I asked with a smirk as I stepped back two steps causing Velvet to raise an eyebrow at me.

"Alright buster, profession?" Velvet asked.

"Editor of the Daring Do series," I said.

"Birthplace?" Velvet asked.

"Canterlot Central Hospital same place of birth for Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle," I said.

"And what do I have with my tea?" Velvet asked as her expression began to soften.

"Trick question it all depends on the tea," I said.

And before I could react Velvet launched herself at me and wrapped her arms around me in a hug, one which I gladly returned.

"It's good to see you two Velvet," I said.

"I-I...How is this possible?" Velvet asked as she looked me up and down.

"Uh...long story but I think we should get poor Night Light taken care off," I said as I gestured to the unconscious stallion.

"Velvet what's going on, you know this fella?" Bright Mac asked.

"Oh yes Mac this is Ash Blade, I told you about him," Velvet said.

"I remember you saying he was dead," Bright Mac said.

"I'll explain but for now best get him comfortable," I said as I gestured to Night Light.

"Oh yes Ash, Mac would you both be dears and carry him to the couch while I get a cloth for him?" Velvet asked.

"Sure," I said before I grabbed Night Light's legs while Bright Mac grabbed him under his arms.

We then brought him inside and placed him on the couch and that's when Velvet came back with a damp cloth before she placed it on her husband's head and I took the opportunity to look around the house. It was then I saw a fourth occupant, a mare with cream colored fur and an orange curly mane and tail that matched Applejack's fur and both had a blue hair tie at the end just like Applejack's mane and tail. She had blue eyes and she was wearing a short blue dress with an apron that covered the front lower half of her dress and on the apron was a picture of the mare's cutie mark which was of a preserve jar filled with some kind of substance and thanks to that I knew who this mare was.

"Pear Butter I presume?" I asked.

"Uh yes," the mare said reluctantly.

"A pleasure I'm Ash Blade. I believe Velvet might have mentioned my name," I said.

"Wait Ash Blade, as in that Ash Blade, the king of Equestria?" Pear Butter asked.

"That's the one," I said.

"Oh my head, what hit me," Night Light asked as he woke up from his unconscious state and placed a hand upon his head where he felt the cloth.

"More like you hit me," I said as I rolled my eyes.

My voice then caught Night Light's attention and before he could spring up to have another go at me Velvet stopped him.

"It's alright Night, I know it's impossible but it's actually him," Velvet said as she looked at me with a smile. "Truly a miracle has shined on Equestria."

"I guess but it was more my decision," I said.

"What do you mean?" Bright Mac asked.

"Better get comfy cause this is gonna blow your minds," I said as I gestured to some seats.

And with that I told them of what happened to me when I died and how I returned, even my accession much to everyone's shock, and both Velvet and Night Light were crying tears of joy when I told them their children were safe.

"You'll also be glad to know that Applejack, Big Mac, Apple Bloom, Granny Smith and Grand Pear are safe as well," I said as I looked at Bright Mac and Pear Butter said.

"Ah'm sorry who?" Bright Mac asked causing me to raise an eyebrow.

"Applejack, Big Mac, Apple Bloom, Granny Smith and Grand Pear...any of those names ringing a bell?" I asked.

"Well...they do sound familiar," Pear Butter said.

"What's the first thing you remember," I asked as I stoked my chin.

"Well it would be waking up by the side of a river not too far from here, not sure what happened before that though," Bright Mac said.

"We discovered our names on our clothes and wallets and we knew we were married," Pear Butter said.

"How so?" I asked.

"Well the rings were a clear indication and...well I just could feel how much I loved Bright Mac," Pear Butter said before the two shared a kiss.

"Love does conquer all, guess I owe Aphrodite and Cadence some coins," I thought with a smile.

"Ugh gag quit with all the mushy stuff before I puke," Red said making his displeasure well known.

"Hey it was your idea to do this," I said.

"Yeah and I'm beginning to regret it big time Red said.

"It seems you two have lost almost all memory of your identity but where do you two come into this?" I asked.

"Well it's a funny story actually Ash. You see we met Bright Mac and Pear Butter long ago after they lost their memories. We were out enjoying a picnic in the countryside when these two stumbled across us and told us their plight. So we took them to Canterlot, patched them up and offered to help find their family but after two months we had no luck. So we decided to set them up in this cottage by the river in case someone came looking for them. I just wasn't expecting it to be you of all people Ash," Velvet said.

"The world truly is a wondrous place but I gotta ask, what happened when the caribou invaded."

"Well we were in the city when the caribou finally broke through Shining Armor's shield. But thanks to luck and my hubby's skills as a former Royal Guard we made it out of the city and came here to lay low," Velvet said as she nuzzled her husband.

"Also ran into one of those look a like robot things of you. Couldn't believe it even though I saw it with my own eyes," Night Light said.

"Me nether being honest, just the fact alone that the caribou even pulled it off and claiming I ordered all this to happen makes me sick like you wouldn't imagine," I said as I rubbed my forehead but was soon brought in for a hug by Velvet.

"We know you would never order such a thing like this to happen Ash," Velvet said causing me to smile and hug the mare back.

"Well I'm actually glad I found you all but now I believe it's time I got you all to a safer location then here and reunite you all with your family," I said when the hug ended and I stood up.

Velvet and Night Light were hugging each other in joy but both Bright Mac and Pear Butter were more then a little nervous which was understandable given what these two have been through.

"Hey Bright Mac, Pear Butter listen, once we're back in Aephoceria I promise you I will do all that is within my power to help you get your memories back," I said.

"That's mighty kind of ya Ash but forgive us if we still seem a little nervous," Bright Mac said.

"I understand perfectly but remember you have Velvet and Night Light you can rely on and now you also have me," I said with a smile.

Returning the smile the couple then nodded at me before we all went outside and with a sharp whistle Shadow Ranger appeared in her horse form and with a little magic I made a black but stylish carriage appear before it attached to Shadow Ranger. Opening the carriage door I then changed into my harbinger armor before I gestured for them all to get in and once they were all aboard I closed the door behind them before I climbed onto the driver's seat and grabbed the reigns and gave them a flick. We set off at a brisk pace Shadow Ranger having no trouble whatsoever in pulling the carriage.

Soon we made our way out of the forest and found a road. As we travelled Velvet asked me questions on what was going on lately and I told her of Elisa and Evan's return, our conquests and also the title the caribou bestowed upon us causing both her and Night Light to laugh in merriment which confused me.

"What's so funny?" I asked.

"Oh don't worry dear were just imagining the caribou's faces when they find out just who it is that is under the mask, they'll realize just how bad they fucked up," Velvet said causing me to laugh at the thought as well.

I was about to bring up another topic when suddenly I heard the rumbling sound that may have been thunder but this one was continuous. Looking around I saw a massive dust cloud behind us summoning my spyglass I used it to peer at the dust cloud and saw a Calvary of Caribou raider mounted War Beasts chasing after what looked like a tribe of anthro buffalo ranging from male to female young and elderly all wearing native american head dress and clothing.

It is a well known fact in Equestria that the buffalo were fantastic runners I found this fact out when the girls were escorting a tree Applejack was bringing to Appaloosa and met trouble with the local buffalo, the same buffalo that were being chased right now.

"Ash what's going on?" Bright Mac asked.

"Uh I'm gonna need one of ya to come up here and drive," I said as I put away the spyglass.

Suddenly I hear grunts and someone grabbing onto the edge of the roof where I see Velvet hoisting herself onto the roof.

"Velvet!?" I asked in surprise.

"Don't be so surprised Ash, I can do things too," Velvet said as she got onto the roof and got into the passenger seat beside me

"Alright first of all take the reigns and pull in the reign in the direction you want her to go and how far you want her to go. Pull both simultaneously in order to stop and flick the reigns to speed up," I said as I handed Velvet the reigns.

"Got it but what are you gonna do?" Velvet asked as I got onto the roof and summoned my bow.

"Even the odds," I said as I pulled back on the largest bowstring before an arrow appeared notched in the bow before I released the bowstring.

Watching the arrow as it flew across the lands like a shooting star I saw it graze one of the caribou's shoulders causing me to snort at my aim. I loaded up a second arrow and fired, this time my arrow hitting the caribou right in the chest causing the rest of the caribou to stop immediately and look at their dead comrade while the buffalo kept running towards us and quickly catching up. But soon the caribou gave chase once again determined to catch the buffalo all the while I was shooting arrows at the horde of War Beasts and their riders till the buffalo caught up with us.

"Our thanks warrior but we cannot keep running like this," spoke a large dark brown furred buffalo with the hair dress of a chief.

"Get beyond the forest ahead of us, there is a safe place for you. I shall cover your escape," I said.

"Buffalo into the forest!" the chief cried and just like that the buffalo ran past us causing me to smile at their speed and strength before I turned back to the approaching caribou who were much closer now.

Upon looking at the War Beasts I noticed these once were slimmer then other War Beasts, much like how you compare a Greyhound to a Rottweiler, these guys were probably breed for speed rather then strength. Suddenly one of the caribou leapt onto the carriage but almost fell off and was only grabbing onto the roof, so I banished my bow and drew Salvation and Damnation before I stomped on the caribou's fingers dislodging him from the carriage. Suddenly the caribou's mount leapt onto the carriage to take a bite at me but luckily he didn't quite reach me before I punched the animal in the face when suddenly I hear Pear Butter scream from inside the carrige.

"Sir they have females!" one of the caribou shouted.

"Grab them and kill that one!" another caribou shouted as he pointed his weapon at me before I spun my guns around on my index fingers before grabbing them by the handles once again.

"I'd like to see you try," I said before I shot at a pair of caribou and his mount before I shot at another.

Suddenly I hear a boom from below and when I look I saw Bright Mac with the shotgun covering the right side of carriage. Suddenly I felt a chain wrap around my left arm and I see a caribou holding a chain and trying to pull me off the carriage.

"Should of gone for both arms," I said as I aimed Salvation at the buck when suddenly another chain wraps around my right arm.

"Thanks for the tip!" the caribou who held the second chain shouted before they pulled me in two different directions before trying to pull me off the carriage. Despite all the strength in my body I'm not gonna last long in this situation when suddenly I saw Night Light lean out of the window.

"Night Light!" I shouted grabbing the stallion's attention.

Using my right hand I grabbed both the chains and pulled them towards me before I looked at Night Light and tossed him Damnation which he caught before he shot at one of the caribou killing the buck holding the chain on my right arm before I pulled back on the arm and, as if it was in slow motion, I changed my left arm into a demonic arm and the demonic energy travelled up and along the chain. Like a flaming whip I swung the chain at the second caribou and watched as the chain cleaved through the caribou and the War Beast.

"Uh Conquest I'm kinda running out of road here," Velvet shouted causing me to look and see we were quickly approaching the forest.

"Just keep going I'll handle the rest," I said before I reached out to communicate with the forest.

Suddenly the trees split making a path for us into the forest. I saw the caribou stop at the entrance before the commander ordered them all to continue chasing us. Meanwhile I worked on removing the chains from my arms before tossing them at the caribou knocking several of them off their mounts before I summoned my bow and started taking shots at the caribou. Suddenly one of the War Beasts leapt onto the carriage once again and just as we made it out of the forest the carriage was pulled onto it's side by the sheer weight of the War Beast, flinging me off the carriage.

Once the world had stopped spinning, and I was sure I was lying still on the ground, I got up and shook my head before I looked towards the carriage and saw it was on it's side. Velvet was lying on her stomach, most likely unconscious, and Shadow Ranger was also on her side still strapped to the carriage but looked unharmed. The War Beast seemed to be pacing and looking at Velvet before it approached her and opened it's jaws.

"Hey!" I yelled as I glared at the massive beast causing it to snap it's jaws closed and look at me. "Leave her be."

That was all it took before the War Beast got low and started whimpering before I saw a caribou pulling an unconscious Bright Mac out of the carriage before he brought a knife to his throat. So quickly summoning my bow I then pulled back on the second largest string summoning an arrow.

"I don't think so!" I shouted grabbing the caribou's attention before I released the arrow and watched it pierce his neck.

As I watched the caribou choke on his own blood I saw the rest dismount their beasts before drawing their weapons.

"Who do you think you are to deny us!" the buck in charge shouted.

"I am Conquest, now leave in peace...Or leave the world in pieces," I said as I banished my bow and drew Hingure.

"Uh sir," one of the bucks said as he pointed at something behind me which was most likely my kingdom.

"Haha well lookie here boys today is our lucky day a whole city full of whores just waiting to be claimed by us," the buck said.

"Tch the arrogance on you, do you honestly think I'll allow any of you filth to step foot into Aephoceria!?" I growled as I tightened my grip on Hingure's handle.

"Oh like I'm scared of a fake. Everyone who believes that crap about you being the Harbinger of Conquest is a fool. You're just a mortal in a lousy suit of armor," the buck said.

"I can see you have no intention of leaving *sigh* very well then but I warn you greater forces have failed in killing me," I said.

"Pah you should just offer your pitiful life to me. If you do that then I might just kill you quickly and painlessly...set the beasts loose on him first, we'll kill him and then we'll make all those bitches our sex toys," the caribou laughed.

And so the caribou did as ordered and sent their War Beasts at me but I relaxed my stance, lowered my guard and held out my left hand.

"Sit!" I ordered with a shout and just like that the War Beasts screeched to a stop before me gazing into my eyes before they sat on their haunches, shocking the caribou before I lowered my hand but still held it in front of me. "Lie down."

The War Beasts then lay on their stomach's with their heads on the ground each one whimpering at me.

"Filthy beasts, You Dare Disobey Me!" the leading caribou shouted as he brought out a whip and lashed it at the War Beasts.

Using my magic I grabbed the whip before it came in contact with one of the War Beasts before my right arm became demonic and, like a snake, the whip Rage gave me slithered out of the palm of my hand before I grabbed it and flicked it at the leading caribou, striking him across the face with the bladed tip causing him to scream as it knocked him over before the whip retracted into my arm and I tossed the whip the buck carried away.

"Animals have a keen sense of danger pal. If what they determine is something below, equal or just a bit higher to themselves they won't have any problems attacking but if something was well and truly superior they will either submit or flee from the superior force," I said as I gave one of the War Beasts a pat and noticed aged scars across it's side.

"Damn you, bucks kill this fool already. Cut him down until there is nothing left!" the lead buck shouted and with a shout .

Taking a deep breath I held Hingure before me pointing upward before I relaxed and held her in my right hand calmly as I began to walk forward while the bucks charged at me.

"Sword Strike," I said as I closed my eyes as I continued to walk forward. I then began to feel the air become disoriented by the incoming weapons but I dodged and parried them all as if it were nothing. When the attacks stopped I opened my eyes and I was holding Hingure up in my right hand at shoulder height while my arm was held out perfectly horizontally while my attackers were all behind me. "Nagareru mizu (流れる水)."

Just then bursts of blood sprouted from wounds on my attackers that weren't there seconds ago before they all collapsed into the dirt while the commander and remaining soldiers just stared in shock. Suddenly I hear a slow clap from my right and see it was Rage, Luna, Moon, Spitfire and Tempest and behind them were a few Royal Guards.

"Wow that was poetry in motion, almost like a dance," Rage said while he clapped.

"How'd you guys know what was going on here?" I asked.

"The stampeding buffalo was a pretty obvious indication beloved," Moon said causing me to nod in understanding.

"That...that's impossible, what filthy trick did you use" the commander shouted.

"One of many sword techniques used by ancient warriors...now what to do with you?" I asked as I sheathed Hingure.

"You still think you can beat us you're still outnumbered," the leading buck said defiantly.

"This fight was decided the moment you crossed my path. No, actually when you invaded Equestria," I said when suddenly growling came from within the forest and glowing green eyes emerged from the now solid treeline, their foul breath revealing exactly who it was that lurked in the shadows of the trees.

"Seems we have Timberwolves," Rage said as the massive wooden creatures stepped out from the trees and growled at the caribou.

"Now what exactly was it you said to me, offer your pitiful life up for me and I shall make this quick and painless. Well you should have saved that offer up for yourself cause your death won't be quick and it won't be painless ether," I said.

"No...no please I beg you please Sir Conquest, Lord Conquest spare my life. I'll do anything kill my troops if you desire blood their, lives mean nothing," the lead buck begged as he got on his hands and knees while his troops cried out in shock and betrayal.

All was silent at first as I glared at the caribou before me before I took a deep breath before letting out a sigh

"I think we're done here," I said before giving a wave of my hand in a dismissal maner.

That is when the pack of Timberwolves leapt at the leading caribou and began to tear him apart while the remaining troops watched in terror before I walked towards them. It was only till I stood before them did they bring their focus back to me.

"You all have my permission to leave but you are to return to your homeland and you will tell everyone you meet that you all live by the grace of Conquest's will," I said causing the bucks to quickly nod before running back into the forest.

"Hm I thought for sure you would kill them all. Why spare those guys?" Tempest asked.

"I rather not be known as a merciless monster who kills all I see as my enemy. Besides letting Red out is enough death for one day," I said.

"Yes Rage informed us of that, what happened?" Moon asked.

"Just some loudmouthed caribou, nothing to worry about," I said.

"Well whatever it was that was said that caused you to let him, of all people, out I figure it's best I don't know what it was," Rage said with a shrug.

"Agreed," Luna said.

"Hey Ash what was with that sword dance thing?" Tempest asked.

"Sword technique, it's basically manifesting your fighting spirit into an attack to suit the purpose of the battle. Some warriors have even turned their attacks into a sharp projectile," I said.

"Interesting think you could teach me that?" Tempest asked.

"Same and also I want to learn some new techniques with my gladius," Spitfire said.

"Alright but I sh...," I started when a groan from Velvet reminded me of my passengers. "Crap I gotta get this lot to the hospital in the castle. Hey Rage when I give ya a ring could you bring Granny, Grand Pear, Apple Bloom, Big Mac, Applejack along with Twi and Shining to the infirmary in the castle.

"Sure thing bro and I understand Twi and Shining but why the Apples?" Rage asked as I dashed over to Velvet and picked her up before bringing her over to the carriage.

"I'll explain it later. Right now I need to get this lot checked up on by a doctor. It was a nasty crash and I want to make sure they're all alright," I said as I righted the carriage and Shadow Ranger before putting Velvet in the back before checking on Shadow Ranger for any injuries.

"But what do we do about them?" Spitfire said as she pointed at the War Beasts who were still on their stomachs. At first I wasn't sure what to do about them when suddenly I remembered the scars on their bodies. "Take them to Fluttershy.

"Huh!?" the group asked in shock.

"Ash you sure that's a good idea?" Rage asked.

"Look at their sides, these poor beasts have suffered from lots of abuse from the caribou if those scars are any indication. Besides with Fluttershy she just might be able to settle them and in my opinion they're no more then slaves then mares are to the caribou."

"Mmmmm alright, I'll take care of it. I just hope this doesn't come round to bite us in the ass, literally," Rage said before I hopped onto the carriage's driver seat and grabbed the reigns.

"I'll leave it to you then, let's go Shadow Ranger," I said as I gave the reigns a flick before she began to take us to the city.

---

Three Hours Later Aephoceria Castle Infirmary

---

I was sitting in a hallway with an awake Night Light and Velvet and after getting a check up they were both cleared of not having a concussion but were advised to take it easy for a few days. Now they were telling me about what they have been up to since my death.

"Mum! Dad!"

"Looking at the voice or rather voices down the hall I saw both Twilight and Shining running towards us causing the two unicorn parents to get up off their seats and rush to meet their children in a loving embrace and behind them was Rage along with the Ponyville Apple Family and Grand Pear.

"But how?" Twilight asked as she snuggled into the embrace of her parents.

"Well luckily I had my own private guard watching over me. Honey but I'll tell you about that later, for now let's just enjoy this," Velvet said.

"Ash I cannot begin to thank you enough," Shining said as he looked at me causing me to smile and nod.

"Ah'm happy for ya Twi," Applejack said reminding me of the other thing I needed to do.

"Apples and Grand Pear I'm sure your wondering why I asked you here," I said.

"Yeah what's this all about Uncle Ash...Are we in some kind of trouble?" Apple Bloom asked causing me to laugh.

"No kiddo you're not in trouble. In fact I have something I'm pretty sure you all would want to see," I said as I ruffled the fillies mane.

"Well what is it Ash?" Big Mac asked.

"This way," I said as I led the family to a door and placed my hand on the handle before turning back to the family. "Now before we enter I think it's only fair that I point out that what or rather who is on the other side of this door might come as quite a shock but I ask that you let me explain everything just so there is no awkwardness."

"Pfft Ash I've lived a very long time trust me it's gonna take quite a lot in order to sur-," Granny Smith started as she went and pushed the door open and walked into an observation room that connected to a patient's room and inside the room was both Bright Mac and Pear Butter being tended to by a doctor.

"Granny what's wr...Mummy! Daddy!" Apple Bloom shouted as she made a rush for the door that led into the patient room. However I picked Apple Bloom up in my magic halting her advance but she still tried to reach the door.

"Now hold on kid listen, I know your excited I'd be too but please listen first," I said.

"Ash...Just what in tarnation is going on?" Applejack asked her voice trembling as she stared at the two ponies in the neighbouring room.

"Okay there is no easy way to say this so I won't sugar coat it but they're suffering from amnesia," I said shocking the family.

"Ash Blade please, I beg of you, please can you restore their memories?" Grand Pear pleaded as he got on his hands and knees before me but I helped him back up.

"I'm sorry Grand Pear but memory loss is a difficult thing to fix and if I force all of their memories to return I could end up doing more harm then good," I said causing the families faces to fall into despair. "However I spent three hours with them and I managed to piece some memories containing all of you but it will be up to you all in order restore all their memories," I said causing hope to return to their faces before a beep came from an intercom on the wall.

"Your Highness are you there?" the doctor's voice came from the intercom.

When I looked I saw the doctor was speaking into an intercom in the other room so I walked over to the one in this room and pressed the button on the machine.

"Hey doc how they doing?" I asked.

"They're both perfectly healthy Ash I'd say I can clear them today," the doctor spoke.

"Great you mind if they have some visitors, these folks have been waiting a long time," I said.

"But of course send them in," the doctor said.

Giving a nod to the family they all walked into the room and immediately Bright Mac and Pear Butter took notice of the new arrivals while the doctor made his exit. I saw Applejack was speaking while making gestures to each of ponies that entered and after a few more words they all embraced each other in a heart warming hug while tears of happiness streamed from their eyes. I heard a few sniffles from within the observation room and turned to see the Armor family and Rage were watching the happy moment.

"Hey," I said gaining everyone's attention. "I think we should give this lot some privacy."

With nods all round we all left the room and once we were out I stretched my arms upward and yawned.

"Damn Ash, you seem to just be able to pull miracles out of your ass don't ya?" Rage asked with a smirk.

"Well it wasn't me that actually did it Rage. If anyone deserves credit today it's Red," I said.

"What?" Rage asked.

"Yeah pointed it out in the Book of Names, said something wasn't right so I checked-," I started before Rage stopped me.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa back up a second Book of Names?" Rage asked.

"Oh right here," I said as I summoned the black book from before. "This is the Book of Names basically the names of everyone who is dead on Equris and how they died."

"Whoa this would make the Missing person job a lot easier," Rage said.

"I know that Rage I check this book and the board every day and prey I don't come across a match and thankfully I haven't yet," I said.

"Thank Faust for that," Shining said.

"But can't you use that book to find them?" Twilight asked.

"Twi the only way you can get your name on this book is if you're dead," I said.

"Oh...Right," Twilight said.

*sigh* Now if you'll excuse me I have some buffalo to tend too and then I'm going to take a shower before I relax. I know I'm gonna need it before we move onto the next city in Griffora," I said as I began to walk away.

"Really, what's that?" Shining asked.

"Stalliongrad," I said as I continued to walk away.

Next Chapter: Chapter 40 Stalliongrad Estimated time remaining: 15 Hours, 36 Minutes