5 am Aephoceria Map Room

I was reviewing the layout of all of Stalliongrad on a massive map that had been placed on the table in the middle of the room. My eyes scanning over each building and each location and detail about the building was imprinted in my mind.

"You're up early."

Looking up from the map I was greeted by the familiar sight of a golden yellow mare with flame orange mane and tail who happened to be leaning in the door frame. She was wearing a pair of blue summer pyjama shorts and a crop tank top that had yellow lightning bolts on them and the top exposed her midriff. Beside her was another familiar mare with plum coloured fur and a magenta mane and tail and she wore the same outfit as Spitfire only her's was black.

"Spits, Tempest...I uh, didn't wake you up did I?" I asked.

"That was two hours ago Ash," Tempest said.

"Hm has it really been that long?" I asked.

"Yeah, we saw you leave and figured you'd be right back but after waiting for you for so long we figured we should come see what you were up to and believe me, it was difficult to find you. Thank the gods there were guards who told us where you are," Tempest said as she approached me till she was beside me.

"So what is all this about?" Spitfire asked as she came round on my other side and looked at the map.

"A map of Stalliongrad, the first and only city in Griffora that was built by Equestrians. Place sits just beside a massive river and I'm trying to learn the layout," I said.

"All this, doesn't that put a strain on your brain?" Tempest asked.

"I had to learn how to remember large scale maps like this in the past. Had to memorize routes, safe areas and even no go areas so I could lead troops to safety, this isn't all that different...*sigh* Besides it's best I get to know the layout of this place as quickly as possible," I said as I looked at the map.

"You speak as though you'll be gone for months Ash," Spitfire said.

"I just very well might Spits," I said.

"Hm?" Spitfire hummed.

"Our earlier missions into Griffora were mostly recon missions and establishing a beach head. Now that the rails are open to Griffora again we're gonna be taking a train load of soldiers and heading into Griffora before moving onto several other cities. I'm honestly not sure when we'll be back.

"Ash you can't just up and leave like that. Can't you come back to visit at least?" Spitfire asked.

"No the royal griffon family is still under lock and key somewhere and the only thing that is willing to help take back Griffora from the caribou is a leaderless rebellion that started when the Crystal Heart was restored and this rebellion is being crushed quickly. These rebels need leadership otherwise they won't survive and I can't just send some random pony to lead them, they need someone they'll believe in. Besides I owe it to them for coming to our aid against Heartless," I said.

"...Is that it?" Tempest asked causing me to sigh.

"Yeah one of the Apex Predators is there as well," I said causing the two mares to stare at me in silence.

"W-which one?" Spitfire asked after regaining her composure.

"Rawlin the crocodile," I said.

"He's the one who hated you the most wasn't he?" Spitfire asked.

"Yeah he's slippery and will most likely try to get away but regardless, I need to deal with him sooner or later," I said causing us to enter another long silence.

"I understand having to face personal demons so I have no problem with you going but please just come home safe...I kinda like sharing my life with a male," Tempest said shyly.

"I promise," I said.

---

4 Days Later

---

The sound of train's wheels against the tracks soothed me as I sat upon the hard wooden floor of one of the train cars as we made our way to our destination. We crossed the border a long time ago and were now in Griffora. I was not alone in the train car, my fellow harbingers were with me along with dozens of Royal Guards. Hell even Shining and the mane six's coltfriends were here along with my Immortal guards and the train was pulling nine other carriages as well. Everyone was sitting down like me and the only sound was the sound of the tracks clacking against the wheels beneath my feet.

I was sitting in my harbinger armor gazing into the lifeless eyes of my helmet when suddenly I felt the jerking sensation of the train begin grinding to a halt causing every Guard now soldier to jerk forward waking several from their slumber and putting everyone on alert. I too got up and did a quick stretch before I saw every soldier in the car go to look out one of the barred windows. I also made my way over to one of the windows and looked outside. The sky was still blanketed with the darkness of the night and I saw many griffons on the bank of a very wide river, all of them preparing themselves for most likely crossing the river. On the other side of the river was a city in ruins while smoke travelled upwards towards the sky illuminated by the fires raging below. A familiar sight to me and a haunting one at that. Turning towards my fellow occupants I saw they were scared so I decided to do something about it. With a quick spell upon my voice to transmit it to the other train cars I began to walk to the front end of the car.

"My brothers and sisters in arms...," I said before I summoned a box and stood on it so the entire car could see me before making a camera so the other cars could also see me. "Listen, these caribou, they have done many, many wrongs. First they come into our home and proclaim they are friends but then what...Hmm...They spit on your hospitality, desecrate the tomb that was built to honor those who had fallen beneath the eclipse. They then conquer our homes, rape your mothers and sisters and turn your fathers and brothers into lustful monsters and if that is not bad enough, they claim they do this in the name of what is right and say this was all under my order," I said before I shook my head. "Well I say fuck that. Fuck them and their lying tongues, fuck their rulers who sit back and watch this and take advantage of their lies!"

"Yeah!" the soldiers shout.

"Now out there is Stalliongrad, the first and only city in this world to be built by both Equestrians and Griffons which was taken by the caribou and out there are brave Griffons who will fight beak and talon to restore their country just like we have," I said as I pounded on my chestplate with a fist.

"Yeah!" the soldiers shouted as they raised their weapons momentarily.

"These Griffons came to our aid when we needed it most. They came despite no one asking them to. They came not because there was some secret bargain struck between two rulers, no these birds came because we're friends, brothers and sisters in arms even. Now I say it's time we return the favour but let me ask you all...When we step off this train what will they see, soft ponies shaking in their armor?" I asked.

"NO!" everyone shouted.

"Will they see us turn our backs on them despite what they did?" I asked.

"NO!" everyone shouted.

"Damn right, in fact the only thing I want to see when we step off this train is each and every Griffon gazing in awe at you as you march down that bank with your heads held high before you board one of those boats and sail over the river to Stalliongrad, where we will show the caribou just who the hell we are and just how screwed they are now that we're coming for them!" I shouted causing every guard to raise their weapons with a roar.

With a nod to the others I then donned my helmet before I walked over to the doors. I heard someone unlatching the door from the other side before they began to open but I placed both my hands on each door and pushed them open, startling the griffons that were opening the door before I jumped down with everyone else following me. As we walked through the Griffon camp the Griffon's gazed at us in awe as we marched down to the water to board one of the boats.

"Hey, what's going on here?"

Looking to my left I saw a Griffon wearing an old military uniform walking over to us with a pair of Griffons behind him wielding weapons.

"You're in charge here?" I asked.

"That I am and you are?" the Griffon asked.

"Conquest, I'm in charge of this small force behind me, we're your reinforcements," I said before the Griffon stepped aside before we continued down to the beach and boarded the boats that took us to the other shore.

Once we made it to the other side we walked up a hill silently till we reached another griffon camp and beyond the camp was a war torn wall with a broken open stone archway that led into an open area of the city surrounded by crumbling buildings, reminding me of the square where the Barmaley Fountain is located. Looking around I saw the griffons stop and stare at us but I paid them no mind before I gestured for my troops, friends and guards to take up positions to either relax or watch the square for anything. The harbingers stayed beside me while I began to look for the one in charge and I saw him thanks to the large tent he was sitting in. With a follow me gesture with my head to the other harbingers we made our way to the tent and when we entered the griffon had his back to us and was looking over some maps on a table.

"Ahem," I said announcing our presence.

"Ah Steel Wing, any new orders?" the griffon asked.

"If there are any I wouldn't know because I'm not Steel Wing now am I," I said causing the griffon to spin around and look at us in shock.

"Sweet Merciful Ash Blade it's you...The Four Harbingers of Devastation," the griffon said.

"And you are?" I asked.

"F...Falcor sir," the griffon said.

"Falcor...right," I said before I removed my helmet and leaned my head back and shook my head to remove any hair from my face. "I believe you already know who I am on account you used my name in that little comment earlier."

"You...you...you...you," Falcor repeated as his mouth mimicked a goldfish.

"Yes me, I know, long explanation for another time, right now priorities. When is the next scheduled attack on the caribou camp on the other side of the square?" I asked.

Falcor then felt around the table while his eyes never left mine till he grabbed a set of papers before handing them to me and when I grasped then and looked I saw they were orders.

"So?" Rage asked.

"The orders are to attack before dawn under cover of a night. Bombing not a bad strategy I'll give em that. Break the line then once the bombing ends we move deeper into the city," I said.

"Alright then I'll go relay the orders to the others."

"Tell them we're gonna attack the line before the bombing starts," I said.

"What?" Rage asked.

"Let me explain, we're going to get the caribou's attention and keep their gaze focused on us instead of the bombers. So once the bombs fall, well it's either us or them the caribou have to focus on not both. But don't worry we're not actually going into the bombing area just outside of it so we have their attention," I said.

"Yeah problem there though not a lot of cover in that square," Elisa said as she looked at the map on the table.

"I've got that covered as well, bout time I show everyone why the Roman Empire was one of the most successful armies on Earth," I said with a smirk before I looked at my left hand at a golden brown device strapped to the top of my forearm and was connected to a rectangular shaped handle being held in my left hand and upon the front of the device was my cutie mark.

---

One Hour Before Dawn

---

Me and the forces stood just behind the broken wall that separated us from the empty square. I had my helmet on as I looked at the desolate landscape as ashes fell from the sky like snow littering the ground in a dark grey. Beside me were my fellow harbingers, I then unsheathed Whispering Wind from my back before I looked down at the golden brown device and brushed my thumb against the handle. At the top of the handle was a dial with three shapes upon it and just below the dial was a small arrow pointing towards the dial. On top of the dial was a gold and silver button. Using my thumb to twist the dial so the arrow pointed at a rectangle before I pushed the button and with a click two metal plates extended from the mark horizontally before metal plates extended from the two metal plates going up and down becoming a tower shield in an instant and it bore my mark on the front as an added touch.

I knew my friends wanted to ask questions but I gestured for them to be patient before I gave the signal for us to move forward, shields held out before us. At first we were silent before I banged on my shield with Whispering Wind three times before repeating, creating a rhythm. Soon my forces joined in creating a mighty sound as we marched forwards and I could see caribou setting up defences with rifles and Machine Guns before they took aim.

"Plant!" I shouted before we embedded our shields into the ground before us and crouched behind them just as the M.Gs. opened up.

The pounding of magic bolts and lead rang against my shield as I stood my ground and I saw the others holding as well. I saw some soldiers were paired up behind one shield and were taking pot shots at the caribou hoping to get lucky with their shots. Suddenly I hear an explosion from the caribou lines and when I take a peek I saw another explosion behind them followed by several more.

It's the Night Witches boys!" shouted a griffon from behind the wall behind us causing the griffons to cheer and when I looked up I saw dark shadows zooming across the sky.

"Alright everypony, break their line!" I shouted as I pointed Whispering Wind at the caribou lines.

With a roar my forces rose up and charged the line while the caribou were distracted with the bombing raid while I hit play on my IPod for a song I chose earlier.

I then picked up my own shield before I charged towards the line using my shield to bash it into one of the caribou before I brought Whispering Wind down on an M.G. cutting it in two before kicking it's operator in the chest, knocking him onto his back before impaling him with Whispering Wind. I pulled him out and charged down the street with my forces following me shields out before us to block incoming bullets when I saw caribou running through several .

"Testudo!" I shouted and so my troops gathered into groups and formed a rectangle before several lifted their shields over their heads while others held their shields out on our sides and in front of us just as sniper rounds started banging against the shields. "Hold your ground!"

And so we did despite all the bullets that rained down upon us and with the 'Night Witches' bombing the caribou all to hell, we held strong despite the few close calls from falling bombs till they stopped falling. But a few shots from in front of us kept hammering against the shields.

"Snipers take your shots," I said.

In the centre of the testudo, shields were lifted and the snipers took aim before firing at the shooters down the street.

"Clear!" Quick Shot said as the thestral lowered his rifle.

"Recover," I said causing everyone to lower their shields.

"Alright everyone you know the drill here, we're taking the caribou's outpost. Once that's done we hold it before moving out again and we will keep pushing until we get to their headquarters and push these assholes out of Stalliongrad," I said causing everyone to cheer before we charged down the street with a roar.

---

Dear Luna, Nightmare, Spitfire and Tempest

I hope this letter finds you well but as for me and the others things have been...grim to say the least. Can't believe it's been a month already, time sure flies.

As you already know our landing in Stalliongrad went quite well but I cannot begin to tell you of the many memories that haunt my mind of a city like this one. Buildings brought to ruins, ashes falling from the sky like snow covering the ground in grey. While civilians, who refuse to leave their home, remain here and scavenge for food. Me and the boys help out as we can but we can't do this forever and I believe they are now learning just how horrifying war can truly be. Kinda makes me sad that this happened in the first place. Feels like, in some way, I'm also responsible for this.

*chuckles*

Knowing you all you would have probably slapped me right across the face for even thinking that, telling me that I'm not to blame here and I guess your right...*sigh*...I'm sorry if I seem off as I write this, I'm just a bit exhausted from today's mission. The caribou are dead set on pushing us back the look in their eyes says it all...fear, they fear whoever it is back at their headquarters and I have a pretty good idea on what it is too.

Anyway enough about me how are you girls especially you Moon, hope to hear a reply soon.

Forever yours

Ash

---

Dear Ash

Missing you over here, not quite as fun as it is with you here but you're letters are a good substitute. The Bearers are wrecks at the moment worrying about their coltfriends, Applejack is more so since she has two colts to worry about: her brother and her coltfriend and the fact that she is with child isn't helping despite Luna helping the three pregnant mares as best she can.

Speaking of pregnant Moon is coming along quite well even thinking of names for the kid while Pip won't stop bouncing around in excitement like Pinkie Pie and constantly asks of news from you while little Midnight is oh so curios about why Moon's stomach is getting larger. As for the kingdom Faust has taken the reigns for a bit till you return meanwhile Tempest seems to be getting along well with Apollyon (who still won't take off her helm) and both seem interested in the new recruits that keep coming in and as for Spitfire she's keeping busy trying to get the Wonderbolts up and running again.

Oh Ash Spitfire here just rembered, how in Equestria did you get The Wild Blue Yonder set up here in Aephoceria, did you buy the damn thing or something? Well anyway hope everything is going well over there and hope you return soon.

With Love

Spitfire, Luna, Nightmare, Tempest

*Fiery orange kiss mark, midnight blue kiss mark, lapis blue kiss mark, mulberry kiss mark*

---

Dear Luna, Nightmare, Spitfire, Tempest

You have no idea how good it is to hear from you all as for things over here our progress is going well. In the months we've been here our efforts to remove the caribou have been very successful as of late. With each day that goes by more and more come to join the fight and as for me I honestly can't wait to come home and soak myself in a large bath and sleep in a warm soft bed with all of you.

We've managed to take over a third of the city back and are focusing on surrounding the city to cut off any reinforcements and the griffons are dead set on keeping out any air supplies. Speaking of I met with the Night Witches and it turns out they're a group of female exclusive filers (much like the bomber squad back on Earth for the Soviet Union) who volunteered to do bombing runs. Spits, I'm pretty sure you'd like these chicks their personality's remind me a lot of you.

It was during one of the Night Witches bombing runs when one of them got shot out of the sky. The griffoness was lucky the Immortals were in the area before bringing her back to base to get treated where I met her and requested to meet the others. We sent out a radio signal and the griffoness was picked up by her squad mates. We had a brief chat before they departed.

Anyway back to everyone on the ground...well you'd be surprised to hear but life over here for the civilians still goes on despite the blood and bullets. One morning in the middle of a firefight I saw an old griffon walk out onto his balcony to water his dead plants and when he looked down at everyone he just shook his head and went back inside and get this...there are schools run by caribou here. I just stumbled across one where the caribou was bout to have his way with one of the students.

Let's just say the teacher learned a lesson he would never ever forget and as for the students they're fine. I told them all to leave before I gave the teacher my lesson and Twilight will be happy to see a few familiar faces when we get back. Anyway say hi to Pip for me.

With all my love

Ash

---

Dear Ash

Missing you over here but your letters give us relief when we here that you are still alive and we're glad to hear of your progress in Stalliongrad. As for what you described in your last letter it makes us sick to hear what may be potentially happening right now and with the other part you mentioned about life going on despite war raging around you, some of us wonder if you've seen it before during your life.

Also Spits is saying you'd better not be getting any more females to join us in bed or worse replace her because some griffons share a similar personality to her.

And now onto the topic of home the girls pregnancy is coming along nicely despite the random mood swings they're getting. Luna is wondering if she was ever like that when she was pregnant.

Both Apollyon and Tempest have even taken it upon themselves to train recruits in what they know of warfare, however some male recruits seemed a little conflicted about a pair of women, who they never heard of, with (to their knowledge) no military background leading them and boy did they regret it big time. We all found out the colts were half dead and are now enjoying a lovely stay in the barracks infirmary and they did that with their hands and hooves/feet.

And finally Moon's pregnancy has shown very noticeable fruit, docs say the child will be an alicorn and has left Moon very excited but that's the good news. We're writing this next part in secret so please don't tell Moon we told you this, she was an emotional wreck when we found out

Moon was out in the city when some noble pricks made comments of her being fat and someone summoned up the gall to throw a rock at her hitting her in the head. Moon returned to the castle in tears and locked herself in her room refusing to come out or speak to anyone. We found out about this when some observers saw the whole incident and pointed out all who were involved. That is when Celestia ordered the ponies arrested and brought to the castle and let us tell you we all thought Tia was about to drop the bucking sun on their flanks. Now those assholes are spending some time doing community service while the one who threw the rock gets to stay in the dungeons for a few days.

Anyway when we went to go tell Moon, Luna had to teleport inside and when the doors finally opened Luna ran out in a panic and ordered the guards to bring as much food to the master bedroom and that is when we discovered Moon had been skipping out on her meals to try and get thinner, claiming that you left because she was getting fat. Thankfully we managed to get her to start eating again but the punishments on the ponies that caused this has just increased.

Ash please come home soon.

Love

Luna, Nightmare, Spitfire and Tempest.

With a cry of fury I slammed my right fist down onto the table beside my armchair reducing it to splinters startling everyone in the room. My fellow harbingers and stallion friends were with me in an apartment building on the fifth floor overlooking the caribou's HQ. Most of my battalion were scattered about on the other floors with griffon rebels either above, below or in other rooms on the same floor as us. Suddenly a male teenager griffon walked into the room. He had blue feathers and fur covering most of his body with white fur on his chest and three blue feathers with yellow tips on the top of his head. The griffon wore a black tank top with a blue hoodie and blue jeans giving off the cool kid impression. This griffon was Gallus one of the most promising students of Twilight's school of friendship and one of the students I saved from one of those 'schools'. Kid was shackled to a wall when I arrived and he was trying to stop the caribou from mounting another griffon by the name of Gabby.

"Uh your highness, is everything alright?" Gallus asked as he looked at the shattered remains of the bedside table.

"Yeah sorry Gallus just...just some trouble at home with some nobles?" I said.

"Like what?" Rage asked as he sat in one of the windowsills, his foot placed on one side of the sill while his back was against the other.

I then got up and walked over to the windows while grabbing my harbinger helmet and donning it while I magically handed the letter to Rage.

"Well shit," Rage said as he handed it off to the others to read.

"Absolutely pisses me off that despite Moon being my wife someone will still treat her like something underneath their fingernail. They're goddamned lucky I'm not there right now," I said.

"Wow I'm honestly shocked your not as fired up about this Sir Burning Rage," Gallus said when he read the note.

"Heh thing you should know squirt, when there is an angry Ash Blade in the room the fire don't need any more fuel added to it," Rage said as he waved his hands in front of him once in a no way motion.

"Yeah won't argue with that but in brighter news, it's good that the other three are looking out for her and that my kid is coming along well too," Caramel said.

"You said it," Comet said.

"Eeyup," Mac said.

"So Gallus, where's gabby?" I asked.

"Oh she's resting right now, worn out from how hard she's been working y'know. Transporting all those letters helps keep her mind off of...well that," Gallus said.

"I'm glad, normally I recommend rest but that seemed like a more healthier option and if it works for her who am I to argue," I said when suddenly my radio buzzed to life.

"Ash we've got movement outside the enemies HQ," Quick Shot's voice said over the radio causing me to gesture to Gallus to get to safety.

Taking out a set of binoculars I lifted them to my eyes and looked at the HQ that sat across the clear open area that has become a no man's land. I saw caribou leading out civilians out of the HQ before setting them up in a row while the soldiers took up positions behind them while some other caribou began to set up some kind of structure.

"Quick Shot you have a clear shot?" I asked.

"No the caribou have set themselves up too tightly behind the civvies," Quick Shot said.

"Alright let's just hope the caribou don't know about the teams of snipers on the sides of no man's land. Relay the following orders: if the caribou start marching forward using the civvies as shields the two teams can take out the caribou when they march past while the front snipers cover the civvies escape," I said.

"Understood sir," Quick Shot said.

"Hey Ash, there's someone else coming out of the HQ.

Looking through the binoculars again I saw a figure walking out of the HQ. His body, from what I could see, was covered in crocodile skin with a regular metal chest piece. A dark cape made of cloth was draped across the figure's back and left arm while in the figure's right hand was a wicked looking trident with a deathly aura around it. Finally on the figure's head was a decaying crocodile's head with the same empty eye sockets as Red's with flaming slitted pupils. However the figure's pupils were a dark slimy green with matching flames.

"That him?" Elisa asked with a hint of fear in her voice.

"Yeah Rawlin the crocodile," I said.

"Shit...that power just scares the daylights out of me. Not as much as that Catherine does though, she's a lot scarier," Evan said.

"That's why you guys are gonna leave him to me and I mean it. Don't interfere, I'll deal with him," I said causing everyone to nod when suddenly I saw a trio of griffons getting pushed towards the structure the caribou were building which looked like some kind of cage before they were pushed inside. It was then I saw one was a chick one was a female griffon most likely the chick's mother and finally an elderly griffon probably the mother's farther maybe. "What are you up to Rawlin?"

"Hey that's Grandpa Gruff."

Looking to my left I saw it was Gallus looking at the scene with a set of binoculars of his own.

"Gallus, I thought I told you to get to safety," I said.

Before Gallus could offer a retort I head the painfully familiar voice of Rawlin call out.

"Conquest I know you're listening, come on out or I shall flambé these birds!" Rawlin shouted as he summoned a fireball.

"He's serious, you lot don't do anything unless I give the word. If for any reason I cannot give an order Rage you take over," I said as I walked to the back of the room before I spun around to face the window.

"Got it but you just make sure you don't die. I don't plan to explain to your wives your dead got it," Rage said.

"Sure," I said.

"What about me your Highness?" Gallus asked.

"Do as I say and get somewhere safe, the best thing you can do is let us do our jobs. I don't want to sound disrespectful but if something were to happen to you, I don't want your death on my conscious," I said before I ran towards the window and leapt out of it flying through the air before I landed smack dab in the middle of no man's land with a mighty boom. I then stood up straight and glared at the enemy force before I looked eyes with Rawlin who was giving me a slow clap but I saw his left arm was still covered by his cape and also his arm had an unusual shape to it meaning he was hiding something under that cape.

"Oh bravo such an impressive display," Rawlin said as he clapped.

"What do you want?" I growled.

"First thing's first...your helmet, take it off," Rawlin said but I remained still. "Fine hope you enjoy chard griffon," Rawlin said as he went to set the cage ablaze.

"Stop!" I shouted before I reached for my helmet.

I then began to undo the strap. I saw everyone's attention was on me before I lifted the helm from my head revealing my face to all causing many to gasp in shock or surprise before I dropped my helmet onto the ground.

"It's Ash Blade."

"But it can't be."

"Why is he fighting with the rebels, is this some sick joke?"

"Our god should be fighting alongside us not helping liberate some whores."

"Is there a point to this Rawlin?" I asked as the caribou and civilians chatted on.

"Naturally I love watching when something mortals believe in so passionately betrays them. Example the caribou finding out you're alive and that your spearheading the attack to bring down their empire. Now that I think about it you had that expression on your face just before you were converted," Rawlin said causing me to snarl. "Ooh scary this place must have brought out your animal instincts. Not that I'm surprised you've always been a beast and you living among these animals seems to have only drawn it out more."

"Psychological warfare never was your strong suit was it Rawlin. The only thing you were good at was getting your sorry ass into some form of trouble. Either it be in a bar with a woman, guards, even with Catherine or Emily. Now if we're done with this senseless dribble answer me this, why the hell have you called me out here?" I asked.

"I have a deal to extend from Geralt...He want's you to join us once more," Rawlin said causing me to laugh.

"Oh gods just how full of himself is that lunatic or did he forget that he abandoned me," I said.

"And you seem to forget that you still belong to him or have you forgotten the golden rule of mercenaries Ash. What's taken by the sword-," Rawlin started.

"Has to be reclaimed by it. I know the rules but when it comes to how I was cast aside and forgotten by Geralt I gained the right to take my life back. Even if that wasn't the case I did not give my life to serve that thing he and the rest of you have become," I said.

*sigh* Well honestly I was hoping that we could settle this peacefully but it appears I'm going to have to drag you back," Rawlin said as he twirled his trident around.

"Oh I'd love to see you try," I said as I drew Whispering Wind.

"Oh one thing first Ash a brief history lesson did you know in ancient times men would make a sacrifice in order to achieve victory on the battlefield," Rawlin asked causing my eyes to widen before he threw a fireball at the cadge containing the three griffons.

"NNNNOOOOO!" I shouted as I heard the young griffon scream in terror.

"Ash take care of Rawlin we'll take care of the civvies!" Rage shouted in my head.

"AAAARRRRRGGGGHHHH!" I shouted as I ran at Rawlin as gun shots from the snipers rang out from the buildings around me bringing down caribou with each bang.

Meanwhile I swung Whispering Wind at Rawlin who blocked my attack with his trident but I didn't stop. I rained down blow after blow trying to stagger the monster before me and keep him distracted while Rage and the others worked to free the prisoners from the burning cage.

"Hm it seems you have decided to go with brute strength instead of strategy. How very like you, always banging your sword against your opponent hoping it will hit them," Rawlin said as I continued to swing at him.

"Oh I'm not relying on just hope here and when I'm done I'm gonna be smiling down upon you before I finish you," I said as I swung at Rawlin from the right but when he went to block I spun around clockwise to the left and rammed the edge of Whispering Wind into Rawlin's side causing him to scream in pain before I leapt back and looked at the black blood pouring from the wound I made. "You never were that good at countering feints."

"Oh you think you're so cleaver hm, but you seem to forget that I have power now," Rawlin said as he shrugged off his cape revealing instead of a natural arm there was a crocodile's head and it seemed to be alive because the eye and jaws were moving.

"Nice limb," I said.

"Like it, it has quite the reach as it has a healthy appetite," Rawlin said. as he pointed the limb at me.

Suddenly, the crocodile head came flying at me causing me to back away when suddenly my foot hit a loose stone tripping me onto my back while the crocodile's head flew over me. I saw the head's neck that was connected to Rawlin's arm had extended as if it were rubber and was heading towards the hostages still being held captive by the caribou. So with a quick reflex I kicked the neck with my right foot, warping the head's flight and watched it fly over the civilians and come down on one of the caribou where it clamped it's jaws down on the unfortunate bastard before it began tear the caribou apart before swallowing him. I watched as an abnormal bulge travelled down the neck before disappearing once it reached Rawlin's arm. Just then the neck began to retract till it was back to it's original length and I saw the wound I inflicted before on Rawlin had healed.

"Enjoy your meal my pet...An interesting technique," Rawlin said.

"Interesting as in disturbing," I said as I stood up.

"As useful as it is in both disposing of mortals and using whatever remaining life force they had to heal myself and increasing my power," Rawlin said.

"Is there no regard to life left in you Rawlin, just how low have you fallen?" I asked as I pointed Whispering Wind at the twisted monster.

"Not fallen, I have risen above that lowly pathetic creature. Allow me to show you," Rawlin said as he raised his trident upwards towards the sky as dark clouds began to gather overhead.

Suddenly rain began to pour down, soaking the ground within seconds before water began to flood the area reaching my knees. The water was muddy and brown and made it difficult to see what lay within it, making me nervous. I was now in some kind of swamp or bayou and the pouring rain made it more difficult as well but I could tell one thing, Rawlin wasn't where I last saw him.

"Hiding now Rawlin, you haven't changed all that much apparently," I said as I looked looked around but the water made it difficult to move.

Suddenly I saw movement to my right at two o'clock and focused on it when suddenly movement behind me made me turn around just in time to see Rawlin leap upward out of the water and come down with his trident aimed at me, forcing me to make a leap out of the way just before he skewered me like a fish. Leaving me to splash down into the water before I quickly got up and saw Rawlin was once again gone.

"Hiding Ash, hardly. I'm hunting and guess what, you're the catch of the day," Rawlin said, his voice echoing around me.

Suddenly Rawlin's trident came up out of the water in front of me and struck me in the stomach two of the prongs were stopped by the scale like under armor however one of the prongs pierced me before I was lifted off the ground and thrown across the water before splashing down into it. Before I could get up I felt the space between the prongs on Rawlin's trident around my throat before I was pushed under the water trying to cut of my supply of oxygen. Grabbing hold of the trident with both hands I tried to push the trident off but to no avail since he was using his own body as leverage to keep me pined. So using my legs I tried to kick at him but I felt the teeth of his crocodile arm dig into my legs tearing through my armor as if it were made of wet paper making me scream, allowing much of my limited supply of air to escape.

My lungs began to burn at the lack of oxygen. I was desperately trying to grasp any air but to no avail and the pain inflicted from Rawlin's croc arm wasn't helping me. So I developed everything to think of a way to get out of here when I had an idea. Letting go of the trident with my right hand I outstretched it and focused on the water. Suddenly the water began to feel colder before I flicked my hand towards me and suddenly the teeth on my legs vanished and the trident around my throat was pulled away alowing me to pull myself above the water and take in lungful's of air. I then looked up and saw a pillar of ice sticking out of the water above me where Rawlin once stood.

"How dare you."

Looking towards the source of the voice I saw Rawlin was getting up from the water.

"Using my own hunting grounds against me, conjuring a pillar of ice out of the water to attack me," Rawlin growled.

"Oh please...as if you wouldn't do the same," I said as I tried to stand but the wounds on my legs made it difficult.

"Tch well this fight is as good as won. You won't be able to move around much while your legs are in that condition," Rawlin said as he pointed at the blood pouring from my legs while his arm licked it's lips.

"What condition?" I asked as I looked down at my legs and watched as all the blood that flowed into the water retreated back into my legs before the wound closed up and my armor repaired itself while I held my right arm out and Whispering Wind flew into my hand after being tossed across the water from Rawlin's attack. "I feel pretty good right now."

Rawlin growled at me before he charged at me and made a thrust at me but I deflected the attack and made a swing of my own but Rawlin dodged backwards and launched the crocodile at me. So spinning the dial on the device attached to my left arm I then clicked the button and suddenly a hoplon shield unfolded from the device which I used to knock away the head but before I could strike at it Rawlin rushed at me, intending to impale me once again. But clicking the button once again the hoplon folded away into the device before I grabbed the blade of Whispering Wind in my left hand while still holding Whispering Wind by the handle in my right hand and used it to block the trident. When the two weapons collided a massive shockwave burst out of the point of contact, pushing all the water and rain away from us for a few seconds before it all went back to normal. Let me tell you blocking that blow was like stopping a charging ram, stoppable but painful.

After a few more seconds of the silent show of strength Rawlin suddenly pulled back and began twirling his trident around with both grace and speed, forcing me to back up to avoid each swing he made at me. Till I parried one attack and broke his defence, allowing me to slash at his thighs then his chest before I thrusted Whispering Wind into Rawlin's left shoulder causing him to scream in pain. Suddenly his croc arm clamped down on my waist once more tearing through my armor and causing me to scream but I then unsheathed Hingure and impaled it into the head causing the beast to scream in pain and release me before I kicked Rawlin away. While Rawlin was kicked back Hingure sliced through the croc arm.

Once we were separated I looked down at my wounds and began to heal them. It was difficult, no doubt some kind of effect from Rawlin's arm while Rawlin wasn't doing so well himself. He managed to heal the wounds from Whispering Wind but the croc arm wasn't responding to it. Suddenly Rawlin dove into the water forcing me to keep my guard up as I began to look around for where Rawlin would attack me from. I then felt the air behind me disorient causing me to dodge to my right just as Rawlin's trident came forward to impale me. So with my left hand I grabbed the trident and pulled it forward while launching myself backwards knocking myself into Rawlin. Pushing him back and causing him to release his trident. So with trident in hand I spun around and threw the trident at him, sending him flying till he hit a pile of rubble with the trident lodged in his chest.

As I looked at Rawlin as he lay there all I could do was stare as I tried to regain my breath till finally I leaned forward and placed my hands on my knees and took deep breaths. Suddenly I heard the sound of shifting rubble and when I looked I saw it was Rawlin and he was getting up.

"You...you honestly think I've been beaten," Rawlin asked as he yanked his trident out of his body.

"Oh no, I haven't even begun to take all of my anger out yet," I said as I stood up straight and took a stance.

"Really well unfortunately for you you won't get the chance," Rawlin said.

Suddenly pillars of water rose up from the water and the water around me receded and the pillars joined together above me forming a cage of water.

"Remember Ash when I said these were my hunting grounds. When you stepped in you were already dead because here...I Am GOD!" Rawlin shouted when suddenly thousands upon thousands of tiny needles made of water shot out of the pillars towards me piercing both my armor and skin. I then brought out my tower shield to minimise the damage and was about to summon a magical shield like Shining Armour's when suddenly a pillar of water slammed into me disrupting my concentration and sending me skidding along the ground while the needles continued to rain down on me. But I got up and raised my shield once more and went to try again but again a pillar slammed into me and again and again every time I tried to get up till finally the shower of needles stopped. When they did I was left lying on the ground and my armour was more silver with my blood then white.

"Silver blood, wow quite a sight there Ash," Rawlin said but I didn't say anything but instead focused on getting back up but my limbs were too sore to push me up even though I was trying to heal them. "Oooo it looks painful lying there and bleeding out like that. Tell you what, why don't I put you out of your misery just for old time sake."

It was then I couldn't help but let out a chuckle just as I managed to push myself up a bit.

"Care to indulge me on what it is that's so amusing?" Rawlin asked.

"Oh nothing, it's just...*grunts in effort*...There is someone here who actually wanted to say hi to you," I said as I pushed myself onto my knees.

"Oh who?" Rawlin asked looking interested in my words.

"I'll bring him out then you two can catch up," I said as I coaxed an arm back behind my head as if I was reaching for a hood and as I did the area around us became alive with music.

Once my arm was just below my neck I grasped something else. it was long and narrow and was hard like metal. I then pulled the object upwards before sliding it over my head and bring it down in front of my face where my eyes looked through two eye holes. Suddenly I felt a chilling sensation crawl down my spine before it spread over my body. I then looked up at Rawlin and what I saw was shock on his face. I then began to stand up and as the chilling sensation reached my arms I held out my right arm and saw the darkness that was Red's under armor spread across my arm before silver bones began to rise out of the black and I felt two pieces of metal clamp in place over the lower half of my face and soon I lost control over my body.

"Red Reaper," Rawlin said after he recovered from his shock.

"Ah hello old friend, it has been a long time," Red said through my lips but the voice that sounded was both his and mine.

"It has so I take it that now you will return with me to Geralt?" Rawlin asked causing Red to throw his head back and laugh long and loud.

"Wow after all these years you're still as dumb as when I left or weren't you listening to my partner before hand?" Red asked.

"Partner?" Rawlin asked.

Suddenly the right side of the helm around me vanished along with the under armor revealing my face much to Rawlin's shock once again.

"Miss me asshole?" I asked this time using both mine and Red's voice.

"That's not possible," Rawlin said.

"Hey Red, what say we send this prick back to Geralt in pieces?" I asked as I controlled my/our/his right arm to draw Deathcaliber.

"Fine by me Ash," Red said before we leapt high up into the air above Rawlin at speeds that would stun Rainbow before we came down on Rawlin like a hammer. Our feat standing on his head which was crushed within the ground. "Oooo that had to hurt." Red said before we walked down his spine before hopping off his body and walking a few steps away before turning around to see Rawlin getting up. "Oh look Ash, he's getting up."

"Good it would boring if that's all it took to beat him," I said as I gave Deathcaliber a few lazy swings.

Rawlin then made an attempt to hit us with his trident but was halted by Red when he held up a finger and stopped the weapon with nothing but a claw. I then took a swing at Rawlin, knocking away his weapon, before Red sucker punched Rawlin right in the snout sending the monster flying back a bit before I looked around at the rain still pouring down.

"Hey Rawlin didn't you say you were a god here," I taunted.

With a roar of fury Rawlin unleashed a surge of power that affected the water around us causing it to gather in one place before it took the shape of a massive crocodile with Rawlin sitting on top of it.

"Really?" Red scoffed.

The water croc then charged at us so we took a deep breath before letting out a piercing roar that made the very ground tremble and disrupt the water crocodile until it scattered into droplets of water, sending Rawlin tumbling to the ground. Suddenly, with a burst of speed, we were behind Rawlin before I slashed him in the back with Deathcaliber sending Rawlin flying forward. But in another burst of speed we appeared next to Rawlin where Red grabbed Rawlin by the leg before he lifted him into the air and slammed him into the ground before doing it again and again and again before leaving him in the ground.

"Puny god," Red said.

"This...this can't be...possible...I will not...stand for this," Rawlin said as he crawled towards his trident to keep on fighting before we kicked Rawlin onto his back..

"Hey Red, remember when we got stabbed by that paladin?" I asked.

"Yeah and I remember you're part in how we got stabbed," Red groused.

"Be mad at me later. Listen, remember exactly how much it hurt?" I asked.

"Well duh bu- oooooooohhhh," Red said with a grin before we plunged Deathcaliber into Rawlin's croc head arm before plunging Whispering Wind into his other arm.

Suddenly the arm under my control was covered in divine magic causing both Rawlin and Red to wince in it's mere presence before we kneeled down beside Rawlin. I held my arm over Rawlin's face while Red held Rawlin's snout just to make sure he din't try to bite my arm off.

"Don't worry Rawlin, this will only hurt...a lot," Red said with a dark smile.

With a breath I roughly pushed my hand against Rawlin's head right over his eyes causing him to scream in agony as I felt the face below my hand melt away before I pulled my hand back to reveal to my shock a part of a face I had not seen since it was cast in the thing it was in.

"Ash let's hurry and finish this, he's passed out from the pain but won't be like that for long," Red said.

"Red is that...?" I began.

"Yes Ash and I know what your thinking but remember what he said, he was the first-," Red started.

"You Think I Don't Know That!?...I do remember what I saw Red but what I don't know is why and he has the answers that I've wanted to know for centuries. If I don't like what he says...then we'll kill him," I said.

"Fine but don't blame me for any consequences and this partnership won't be any fun if you're gonna be such a cock blocker Ash," Red said.

"I'll make it up to you later Red," I said before he retreated into the depths of my mind allowing me to control my body once more while Red's armor retracted.

Once I was back in control I summoned divine magic into my arms and charged up a purification spell till the area around us was bathed in a bright white light before unleashing all the magic upon Rawlin causing the thing covering him to scream in pain.

"Damn You!" the thing screamed as I saw it disintegrate into nothing.

After continuing to blast Rawlin with the purification spell for a few more minutes the spell began to run out of mana and began to power down. When it did I looked down at Rawlin and saw the figure from all those years ago naked as the day he was born. He looked as though he hadn't aged a day and he appeared to be smaller then when he was encased in that shell.

"Ash."

Looking up I looked and saw Elisa, Evan, Rage and Gallus were staring at me in shock along with several soldiers.

"That was nuts," Gallus said.

"Get something to cover him then get him in a heavily guarded and secured area and keep a careful eye on him. If he shows any signs of waking up let me know immediately," I said as I looked around at the surrounding troops.

"Yes sir," some griffons said before they flew over and picked up Rawlin before carrying him away.

"Uh wanna explain what's going on with that guy?" Rage asked.

"Just a theory but first I need answers from him...how'd it go did you get the civilian's out?" I asked.

"Yeah...well most of them," Rage said as his expression along with the others fell.

"How many?" I asked.

"It...It was Grandpa Gruff," Gallus said as tears fell from his eyes.

"It was the elder griffon in the cage he...he used his own body to shield the other two from the flames," Rage said causing me to nod before I kneeled down before Gallus and placed a hand on his shoulder.

"He died as a hero Gallus and so we shall give him a proper burial upon our return with all the honors a hero like him deserves, this I swear. But first dry your tears and hold you're head high and be proud you knew him to begin with," I said causing Gallus to nod before he dried his eyes and held his head high with pride before I stood up.

"Call in the Pale Horse, we're finished here," I said.

"Uh actually not quite Ash the caribou's HQ is still infested with...well, caribou and they all know who you are," Elisa said.

"Are their communication's still cut off?" I asked.

"Uh yeah," Evan said.

"Good," I said before I reached and pulled Red's helm over my head once more and felt him begin to take control over me."Hey Red, I said I'd make it up to you right. See that HQ well you have the reigns for this one."

"Goody," Red said before I handed all control over to him.

---

24 Hours Later Captain's Quarter's

---

I woke up with a yawn when Gallus came in to tell me we were arriving at Aephoceria. I then swung my legs over the side of my hammock before placing my feet on the ground before getting my boots on. Walking out onto the deck I saw everyone was rushing around getting ready for docking while Gallus sat on the side and gazed upon Aephoceria.

"It's quite a sight isn't it?" I asked.

"Yeah I've never seen anywhere like it," Gallus said.

"Well I believe Twilight was actually planing on an excursion to this place further along in your studies Gallus," I said before I chuckled at his shocked look.

"You know about the school of friendship?" Gallus asked in shock.

"Not a lot escapes my sight while I'm in the realms of the deceased Gallus and that incident with Cozy Glow was quite a head spinner. Who'd of thunk it that one so small and innocent looking could do so much damage with the very power that was supposed to bring others together. I'm just happy the realm that all that magic was getting sent too was actually the one I was in at the time otherwise I wouldn't have been able to stop the magic from going through while the tree worked to free you and your friends.

"Wait, wait, wait you were there. As in all that time?" Gallus asked causing me to nod. "Whoa that actually explains some things now but hang on, if you were there why didn't you stop Cozy Glow?"

"What and steal your own moment of heroism?" I asked with a smirk causing the both of us to laugh as the Pale Horse moored at it's dock.

We then stepped off and we were greeted by the mane six and Twilight, Fluttershy and Applejack's stomachs had well rounded out showing their pregnancy.

"Headmare, Professors!" Gallus cried when he saw the mares.

"Gallus!" Twilight shouted before she flew over and began checking him over while the others quickly followed. "Are you okay, you're not hurt are you?"

"I...I could be better but thanks to King Ash Blade I'm safe," Gallus said before he noticed the three pregnant mare's stomach's. "Oh man the caribou..."

"Oh no darling, this is actually the offspring of their coltfriends not those wretched caribou," Rarity explained causing Gallus to breath a sigh of relief.

"Kid's got fire and is quite rebellious," I said as I walked off the gangplank and when Rarity looked at me she shrieked.

"Ash what is that, that rat on your face!?" Rarity shouted as she pointed an accusing finger at me. So I reached up and felt a a mass of hair on my chin and below my nose.

"I call it a beard Rarity, that's what everyone calls them," I said.

"Darling you look like a wild beast. Did you not shave while you were away?" Rarity asked.

"Uh Rarity I don't know if anyone told you this but while in Stalliongrad we had one hell of a time just to grab the essentials like food and clean water. Stuff like mirrors and razors weren't exactly on the priority list when you're getting shot at. Plus the fact just trying to keep ourselves clean was a chore unto itself so excuse me if I don't look all that presentable to you," I said.

"I dunno, I say Ash looks good with a beard and stash. Only if it were shorter y'know," Rainbow said.

"Yeah I can picture it," Pinkie said as she jumped in place.

"Anyway changing the topic, we're glad you're safe Gallus," Twilight said as she stepped back after checking him over.

"Yeah and don't worry about the others kid with Ash here, alive and all, and me out there we'll get them back safe and sound," Rainbow said.

"Thanks Professor Dash," Gallus said causing me to snicker.

"Something funny Ash?" Rainbow asked as she glared at me with a raised eyebrow.

"Sorry it's just...I can't imagine you with the title of professor at all Dash. Especially sinse you would fall asleep during any lecture given," I said.

"Not true!" Rainbow cried out.

"Oh yeah name one," Rage said as he walked past me.

"Well...uh...the one...uh," Rainbow started.

"Okay enough teasing Rainbow and speaking of professor titles, I just remembered I wanted to ask you something Ash," Twilight said.

"Oh and what would that be?" I asked.

"Ash how would you feel about teaching a little of Earth's history for our class?" Twilight asked causing me to chuckle.

"Uh hahaha H-hold on...*clear's throat* sorry about that Twi but Earth History at a School of Friendship is not exactly a great combination and from me of all people. My whole life has been spent around conflict," I said.

"I know that Ash but this will be an new experience for the students and you know so much more then just conflict," Twilight countered causing me to lift a hand to my chin in thought.

"Well I have no experience in teaching Twi unless of course it's through combat so you mind if I think on this?" I asked.

"Sure," Twilight said.

"Please say you'll teach us," Gallus pleaded as he crossed his talons together in a pleading manner while looking up to me and giving me the puppy dog eyes.

"Hahaha a good effort boyo but the puppy eyes won't do anything to persuade me or make up my mind quicker," I said as I ruffled the feathers on top of Gallus's head. "Now if you'll all excuse me I have a pregnant alicorn to comfort and Gallus...I'll have someone to begin preparations."

"Thank you sir," Gallus said before I began to walk away. "Will you at least consider it?"

I then began walking backwards to look at Gallus before I brought my hands up to the sides of my head and began spinning them around as a silent show that I'll process and consider it before I spun around and headed for the master bedroom where I saw both Hoplite and Blackthorn were standing guard at the door arguing with each other once again.

"Well I'm happy to see somethings haven't changed," I said as I walked towards them.

"Uh...Your Highness, how long have you been there?" Hoplite asked as he quickly stood to attention while Blackthorn retained her slouched posture.

"Not long so I didn't hear much," I said.

"Hey your highness, you get impaled alot while you were away?" Blackthorn asked causing Hoplite to pale at her casualness.

"Hmpf, they gave it a good shot. But, thanks to a little trick of mine it was dificult for them to do wanna see?" I asked causing Blackthorn to nod. "Kay one of you got a dagger or small blade on you?" I asked and Blackthorn pulled a small dagger out of her shin armor.

"Never leave home without it," Blackthorn said.

"Okay now first off this blade isn't important to you is it?" I asked.

"Not really no," Blackthorn said.

"Kay then stab me," I said.

"What!" both the guards said in unison.

"You heard what I said, stab me as hard as you can please," I said as I pulled my shirt down to provide a target.

"Uh Your Highness isn't that a bad idea," Hoplite asked nervously.

"I think you may have hit you're head sometime while you were away," Blackthorn said.

"Blackthorn I assure you I'm perfectly sane but please don't make me order you to stab me with that blade. We both hate orders so just shut up and thrust that thing in me," I said.

"Kay you're the boss," Blackthorn said.

"Blackthorn you can't be serious," Hoplite said.

"What I really hate taking orders," Blackthorn said.

"What that's it, or has the fact that you're about to assault someone whos a royal and country hero not clearly gotten into you're head yet!" Hoplite said.

"Hey!" I shouted making the two guards jump at my shout. "Need I remind you that I survived far worse then this. I'm a freaking god for crying out loud, not a fragile flower that will be ripped from the ground by a gentle breeze."

"Hm good point," Blackthorn said as she thrusted the blade forward to stab me with the dagger but the blade shattered upon contact against my skin surprising the guards.

"Regular blades won't work against me as plainly demonstrated. That's because I have condensed the molecules in my skin to a point it becomes impenetrable armour. Only cursed, blessed weapons or weapons made from certain materials like Soul Steel, or a weapon that vibrates at the right frequency like a certain blade from Metal Gear will be able to pierce my skin when I do this. But, I can only affect a small area so this trick isn't exactly all that helpful against a barrage," I said as I patted Hingure.

"That's...kinda neat," Hoplite said.

"Thanks," I said.

"So your highness off to see Nightmare Moon?" Blackthorn asked.

"Yeah why?" I asked.

"Well ya might wanna fix up that beard before you do you look like a caveman," Blackthorn said causing Hoplite to pale once again at Blackthorn's casual attitude.

"Yeah I guess it's not a look I can pull off. But, I need to get into the bathroom through my bedroom before I can do that though. So Moon's gonna see me like this regardless," I said as I gave my beard a rub.

"But can't you just shorten you beard like how you manipulate your hair. Or rather just teleport into the bathroom so you can shave?" Blackthorn asked causing me to facepalm.

"Why didn't I think of that," I grumbled before I dragged my hand down my face making the beard disappear as it did. "Still forget about my ability to do stuff like this."

"That's seriously cool makes me wish I was born a unicorn sometimes," Hoplite said.

"Speak for yourself," Blackthorn said.

"Anyway I need to speak to Nightmare now you two. So why don't you have a break," I said.

"Yes!" Blackthorn cheered.

"Uh you sure sire, our shift has-," Hoplite started before he began to get pushed away by Blackthorn.

"Sure he's sure king needs to speak to his wife in private anyway. How will they do that if we're here you ning nong. Now let's go get some food," Blackthorn said as she pushed Hoplite down the hall and I couldn't help but smile as they left.

Once they were gone I then knocked on the door to the master bedroom three times.

"Moon it's me, do you wanna ta-," I started but before I could finish the door was flung open and I was dragged inside by cyan magic.

The door was slammed shut behind me before I found my head in something soft and warm while something held me in place. However it was too dark to see anything so I used my magic to encase the room in a dim light and when I looked up I saw I was being held in the expansive valley of Moon's cleavage which has grown since I last saw her which was probably from her pregnancy. Speaking of growing I could feel Moon's stomach and the gentle kicks of our child within and when I looked at Moon I saw she was in tears.

"Moon," I said with concern.

"No...no words just...please, just hold me," Moon pleaded.

Getting her to ease her arms up on me, allowing me to stand up straight before I wrapped my arms around Moon in a loving embrace. I then led her over to the bed and lay on it allowing Moon to sit in my lap before I began to rub her pregnant belly in slow circles till Moon calmed down and we both sat there in silence till finally I spoke up.

"Moon why don't you get some sleep, I know you haven't been getting any lately," I said and it looked like Moon was going to argue till she looked up at me from her position.

"Will...will you be here when I wake up?" Moon asked causing me to kiss her on the lips.

"I promise...Would you like a lullaby?" I asked.

"Ash I'm not a foal," Moon said.

"I know that but I wasn't asking you that now was I, right little one," I said as as I looked at Moon's stomach and felt a kick in response.

"I take it that was a yes," Moon said causing me to nod before I began to hum a tune. Out of nowhere music flitted into the room before I began to sing.

As I softly sang I saw Moon's eyes had begun to flutter closed and I swear I heard the sound of rain pattering against the curtain drawn windows but I wasn't about to open the windows to check. As I continued to sing I felt our child who was safely tucked away in Moon's womb had gone quiet and when I finished Moon was fast asleep. So I gently pulled her closer and placed my head atop her head and rested it there and began to shut my eyes so I too could enter my own realm of slumber.

Next Chapter: Chapter 41 What Goes On Under The Light of The Blood Moon Estimated time remaining: 14 Hours, 48 Minutes