Game of Thrones: Equestria

by Valiant Charge

First published 16th of August, 2018

The war continues to liberate Equestria

In the aftermath of the first war, the kingdom is once again divided between the north lands and Equestria against the forces of Prince Blueblood and the noble faction but in the midst of the chaos an ancient evil awakens deep within the frozen wastes of the north.

The Windigos and their army of the dead.

The Royal Summit

Ten years have passed since the fall of the Stonehoof regime and the rule of the four princesses was restored thanks to the brave efforts of the rebellion lead by Shining Armor of The Crystal Empire and the warrior Wulfric who was now named King In The North and for a time peace reigned once more over the land.

Canterlot Castle

In the courtyards of the castle, a young pegasus colt was sparring with a few of the royal guards while being watched by the two princesses and the legendary knight of the moon; Sir Marshall. Captain of Luna's night guard and lord regent of Canterlot.

"Mind your guard." The captain instructed while noticing the boys mistakes in his fighting style.

It didn't take long for the young squire to be knocked of his feet before being dealt a killing blow and of course he became frustrated as all young squires do after failing a sparring match.

"I lost again..." The boy sighed while laying in the grass as Marshall leaned over him.

"You're still too aggressive in your attacks boy."

As the warden helped the squire, Princess Celestia walked up to clean the dirt on his face and plant a kiss on his cheek saying.

"Still proud of you sweetie."

"Mother!" he protested as she continued to nuzzle him like a foal.

The boy in question was the none other than Celestia's own child Imperius who had dreamed of becoming a legendary knight like his mentor.

"Now go clean up, it's almost time for lunch."

"Yes mother."

As Imperius left Marshall sighed and shook his head with a smirk as the guards cleaned up the training gear before returning to the barracks.

"The boy has spirit." He said proudly while Celestia leaned against him.

"Just like his father." Celestia replied as the boy faded from sight.

"Well I have other duties to attend to."

"As do I your highness."

"Don't be so formal around me Marshall." Celestia told him with a kiss to the lips.

"I am your wife, above all else."

"And a strong wife you are."

Though she had been dethroned and imprisoned, Celestia remained defiant to Dainn Stonehoof until the day of his death but many feared that after the traumatic events she endured that she would not be willing to find a husband, that is until she saw how happy Sir Marshall made her sister, so in the greatest of secrecy the three were wed in the castle walls with only their trusted friends and advisors to bare witness.

The secret however would be made known after the birth of their children. Luna's daughter; Princess Selena who was the older of the siblings and Prince Imperius who's only dream was to be a legend like his father and the heroes of the great war.

Selena was born a unicorn and as expected, she became very adept at using magic and even received lessons from Princess Twilight Sparkle herself.

Unlike her brother, Princess Selena was more fond of books than of swords and poured herself into as many tomes as she could read but she always made time to spend with her family and like any other princess, she found herself surrounded by suitors of noble families that would always send her gifts and ask her on dates but she politely refused each and every one.

Imperius received the same amount of treatment from the daughters of the nobility as they came to watch him practice while their parents discussed politics with the royal family but unlike his sister, he found the experience terrifying since he had no real experience with mares aside from his mothers and the maids who looked after him as a child.

The two siblings met in the hall towards the dining chamber where Imperius was greeted by a barrage of hugs and kisses from his older sister.

"Selena! cut it out!!" He whined while she squeezed him close with a happy smile.

"Oh hush little brother, you know I will do this to you even as you get older."

"And everyone wonders why girls scare me."

Selena became the happiest filly in the world when her little brother was born and loved spending time with him the most even though she knew it annoyed him and as they entered the dining hall, she continued to smother him while he just sulked from the embarrassment.

"Good morning children." Luna said happily to her offspring as they seated themselves at the table.

"Morning mother!"

"Hi mom..."

"Selena stop smothering your brother." Celestia scolded with a smile while prepping her signature pancakes for the siblings when they noticed their father wasn't around.

"Father isn't joining us today?" Imperius asked feeling slightly disappointed.

"Not this time dear. He is making preparations for the visit."

The visit that Celestia was talking about was the annual royal summit between the the allied kingdoms of Canterlot, The Crystal Empire and The northern lands. Each year, the leaders of all four kingdoms would sit down to discuss how to strengthen their alliance and improve the stability of their lands but more than anything, it was a chance for old friends to talk again.

"By the way, King Wulfric will finally be making an appearance this time." Luna said aloud while looking at the reactions on her children's faces.

"The king in the north? Coming here?" Imperius asked in disbelief since he had never actually seen the king.

"Is he anything like the stories?" Selena asked.

"Is he really so strong that he could slice a mountain in two?"

"I heard he mounts the skulls of his enemies on his throne like trophies."

"Now children, that's enough." Luna scolded as they finished their breakfast and made their way to the throne room to prepare for the kings arrival.

Royal Airship Yard

Marshall and a handful of his best knights were stationed at the ship yard to greet the king in the usual royal fashion. Trumpets were prepared, banners were flying high and the lord regent stood at the end of the dock to greet his old friend with an anticipated smile.

"Ship ahoy!" Cried the lookout as he pointed to a large vessel flying a black flag with a wolfs head. It was Wulfrics flagship.

"PRESENT...ARMS!!" Marshall shouted to his men as the ship finally docked and the gangplank was lowered.

The first to step out was none other than Wulfric himself, dressed in plate armor with a bear skin cloak and a golden crown resting between his two antlers which had grown significantly over the past ten years.

"Welcome to Canterlot good king." Marshall said with a bow and a smirk before his old friend gave a small chuckle.

"Is that any way for old friends to greet each other?" Wulfric joked as they both laughed and embraced each other in a firm hug and a pat on the shoulders.

"It's good to see you again my friend."

"Likewise."

The two warriors shook hands and turned to see Applejack and Rainbow Dash departing the ship in royal attire fit for a viking queen along with two children that ran out laughing in excitement.

"Apple jewel, slow down." Applejack called out to a little filly that was running past the guards to see the busy streets of Canterlot while a young buck looked at their armor and weapons with amazement.

"Whoa."

"Ah there he is. Beorn! Come here son." Wulfric called to the boy as he introduced his old friend.

"Marshall this is my son, Beorn."

As Marshall looked at the boy, he could tell he was a spitting image of his father save for the magenta eyes that came from his mother and though he had no wings or magic, Wulfric was proud to have him as a son and so was Rainbow.

"You look like your father when he was young." The warden said to the young buck who looked at his father.

"I don't think so. My eyes are cooler." He joked before having his hair ruffled by his mother who was grinning proudly at her little boy.

"Hm. He's got his mothers ego." Marshall stated before getting a jab in the arm by Rainbow.

The group made their way to the castle while the citizens gathered to greet the heroes of the rebellion as they began to toss flowers onto the street.

"Praise to you Lady Rainbow Dash!" Shouted a pegasus hovering just above as he tossed a rose to her.

"Long live The King in The North!!" shouted a guardsman who was patrolling the streets as they passed on into the castle where they were greeted by the royal family and their personal guard.

"You honor us with your presence King Wulfric." Celestia said in her usual regal manner.

"The honor is mine your highness." Wulfric replied with a warriors salute before entering the castle.

The children went to play in the castle courtyard while their parents discussed the events that had transpired since the end of the war, one of which was the ever growing divide between the royals and the noble faction of Canterlot followed by Prince Bluebloods sudden rise to power the west.

"I'm glad you could answer our summons Wulfric. These are dangerous times." Said Princess Luna as they made their way to the dining hall where a small feast was laid out.

"Indeed. I hear there has been great unrest in Equestria." Wulfric replied while keeping pace with the matriarchs.

"It's more than unrest. The nobles have grown more rebellious since both my sister and I married Sir Marshall, of course it was no surprise given how they reacted to your marriage."

"Ha! Those old farts are just jealous that they can't bag two wives of their own." The chieftain bragged while the servants prepared his plate and poured him some wine.

"Thanks to the treasure he stole, Blueblood has bought some powerful friends in western Equestria. Warlords, barons, royal families of small kingdoms." Said Celestia in a forboding tone.

"I knew we should've gutted that bastard." Rainbow Dash replied angrily before sipping some cider.

"I fear you might be right Rainbow Dash." Celestia replied in agreement as the memories of her nephews betrayal came flooding back. It was at this moment that Wulfric decided to give a toast to help lighten the mood.

"Well until those old farts and that spoiled brat get the balls to fight, I say we make a toast. To peace!"

The others raised their glasses in agreement as they shared the toast and continued to feast before proceeding to the council chamber which held a map of Equestria. Much similar to Princess Twilights.

"So here are the recent events." Luna said as she began the briefing.

"The nobles who have sided with Blueblood have begun arming their troops and have threatened open war if the other princesses and myself do not relinquish our rule over to Blueblood and end the alliance with the northlands.

"We all know that's not an option." Celestia interjected for a moment.

"There's more. We have reports that the kingdom of Saddle Arabia has allied themselves with Blueblood and as we all know, that kingdom practically thrives on slavery."

"Are they open to negotiations?" Wulfric inquired.

"Well...the Saddle Arabian emperor has opted for peace if his daughter were to be wed to my son." Celestia answered with a bit of disdain.

"Now that might be a problem. The boy isn't as flirtacious with women like most colts his age." Luna added as her head slightly sulked from the embarrassment.

"And even if they were to marry, the emperor will still not outlaw slavery in his kingdom."

It was during this discussion that a messenger ran into the council room with a report from The Crystal Empire.

"Princess, Urgent report!" He said sounding a bit worried.

"It's from Prince Shining Armor. Last night one of the viking settlements was burned to the ground. There were no survivors."

"WHAT?!?" Wulfric shouted as he slammed his fists to the table and grabbed the messenger.

"Who attacked the settlement?!? WHO!!?"

"W-we don't know your majesty! The attack came swift and it happened in the middle of a blizzard."

"A blizzard? This time of year?"

Wulfric gently released the guard and gave a quick apology before asking for further details about the attack.

"Was anything taken?"

"No sir. There was no sign of any looting, it seemed the raiders just went and slaughtered the entire village for sport."

"Hmm...Where is the settlement located?"

"Just on the outskirts of the border sir."

"Good. Send a message to Shining Armor and tell him I will personally be investigating this raid."

The messenger did as he was told and left to deliver the message while Wulfric ordered his personal guards to make preparations for the journey north. His wives however had objections to his decision and tried to convince him to send someone else in his place.

"Hon you can't do this! What if something happens to you?" Asked Applejack as her husband continued to ready his armor and sword.

"She's right. This whole thing smells like a trap." Rainbow Dash added before getting a peck on her cheek.

"I'll be fine girls, I promise." He replied with a warm smile.

"If anything goes wrong, We'll bail out right away."

"You better. I don't wanna have to tell our daughter that her father is lying somewhere in a ditch." The farm mare scolded with both hands at her side when her husband suddenly yanked her in by the waist with a mischievous grin.

"You are irresistible when you're angry." He complimented his wife as he held her.

"Don't think flattery will get you out of this mess mister." Applejack replied with a smirk of her own before giving him a proper goodbye kiss which made Rainbow feel a little jealous.

"Hey what am I chopped li-EEK!!"

The Rainbow haired mares question was cut short when her husband gave her flank a hard smack before she too was groped and kissed by her chieftain.

"When I get back, I'll do more~." Wulfric said with a wink.

"I'll be counting on it~." Rainbow Dash grinned before allowing him to leave and though they knew he was a skilled warrior, the girls could not help but shake the feeling that this raid was the start of something dreadful.

End.

Bedtime Stories

While Wulfric was investigating the raid on the settlement, the rest of his family paid a visit to Applejacks and Rainbow's hometown of Ponyville to see how it had been progressing over the past ten years.

The town had expanded with it's new neighbors from the dragons, changelings and viking nations. A small harbor had been built along the river to receive crates of pelts and exotic spices from the other kingdoms and a town guard had been established thanks to the efforts of the mayor and princess Twilight who had opened up a school to teach friendship to all creatures despite protests from other high ranking officials.

"Whoa..." Apple Jewel said in awe as she looked at the busy streets of the town with merchants from all over calling out to customers as they advertised their wares.

"Pretty lady buy a pot! No finer pots in brass or silver!"

"Sugared dates! Sugared dates and figs! Sugared dates and pistachios~!"

"Would the lady like a necklace? A pretty necklace for a pretty lady~."

"FRESH FISH!!" Bellowed a gryphon fish monger who held up a large mackerel to Beorns snout.

"WE CATCH EM YOU BUY EM!!"

"Um...I'll pass." The young buck said politely while holding his nose as his family made their way through the streets.

"Geeze. The town's gotten bigger last time we were here." Said Rainbow Dash who was flying above the group to get a better view.

"No kidding. I can't believe so much has changed since we've been gone." Applejack replied before spotting a very familiar face at the fruit stand.

"SUGAR BELLE!!"

"Applejack? Applejack!!"

Sugar Belle who was now a member of the Apple Family had not seen her sisters in law for quite some time and was more than happy to see them especially with their children.

"Beorn! Apple Jewel!" She squealed as she hugged them both tightly.

Sugar Belle had not seen the children since they were born years ago and could not believe how much they had grown. Apple Jewel was a spitting image of her mother save for the blue eyes she inherited from her father and of course Beorn had become a strong young buck that Rainbow Dash was proud to have as a son.

"Candy! Your cousins are here!" Sugar called out to a filly with a purple coat and red hair. It was her daughter Candy Apple.

Candy was born shortly after the end of the war in the home of the Apple Family and when she was placed in Sugar Belles arms, the mare wept with joy knowing that she would no longer have fear of her child being ripped from her arms like so many mothers during the reign of Dain Stonehoof.

Her daughter had a purple mane like her with a strand of red and green eyes showing her fathers side. She was born a unicorn and had a love for both farming and baking and even got a job at the famous Sugarcube Corner which had now become the most popular tavern in Ponyville and was also under the management of Pinkie Pie who had become Equestria's top baker.

"Eee! Jewel!"

"Candy!!"

To say that Candy was overjoyed to see her cousins would be an understatement as the two fillies squeezed each other tight before Beorn received a massive bear hug from another one of his relatives.

"Ohh! Beorn you're as cute as EVER!! MMM!!!"

"Hi Aunt Applebloom."

Applebloom had grown up into a fine young mare and had even become a famous dancer with her new coltfriend, Tender Taps but despite having the super star life she always found time to come home and help around the farm

The family had spent the entire day chatting and doing chores around the orchard before settling down on a hilltop for a picnic. Applejack and Sugarbelle helped prepare the food with their daughters while Beorn and his uncle prepared the picnic site and even set up a small tent for shade from the sun.

"It's so good to be home." Applejack sighed as she felt the breeze blowing through the orchard while looking at the children play around the apple trees. It reminded her of the peaceful days before the way, when Applebloom was little and she could not be happier especially now that she had her own family to love and care for.

"Alright children, it's time for dinner!" Sugar Belle called out to the children as the sun began to set on the horizon.

The family sat down to a dinner of freshly roasted veggies and fish along with an apple pie baked by Sugar Belle and Applejack and after a hearty meal, the children were taken to their bedrooms and tucked in for the night but not before hearing a bedtime story from their mothers.

"Now. What story should we read to you little ones?" Applejack inquired while looking through the books when Candy made a request.

"I wanna hear the story about Uncle Wulfric and the other heroes."

"Me too!" Beorn said in excitement since he loved hearing stories of his fathers heroism.

"Alright. Settle down tiger." Said Rainbow Dash while ruffling his mane and tucking him back in.

"Now where to start?"

Long ago, Equestria was ruled by a tyrant king.

His name was Dainn Stonehoof and his cruelty knew no bounds. He enslaved those who would not follow his rule and kill any who dared to stand against him and for a time his reign seemed to go unchallenged.

Then came the Warborn. A clan of warriors who had been abandoned or exiled by their former clans and the one leading this band of renegades was the mighty Wulfric.

When the Warborn had heard of the evil Stonehoof had inflicted upon Equestria they rallied their forces and marched towards the tyrant kings throne while making new allies along the way. Among these comrades was Prince Shining Armor of The Crystal Empire, Crafty Dodger; The Champion of the Changelings and the legendary Elements of Harmony.

Together, the heroes brought down Stonehoofs armies and liberated the land until finally coming face to face with the vile king himself.

In the halls of Canterlot Castle, Wulfric and Dainn fought in an epic duel to decide the fate of Equestria. In that fight, the young chieftain of the Warborn fought with the fury of ten warriors and with a mighty swing of his sword he struck down the evil king but Wulfric would not grant him the warriors death he desired for he was far beyond worthy to receive it.

After his defeat, Stonehoof was dragged to the steps of the castle where Dainn was forced to his knees before having his head cleaved off by Wulfrics sword which he would later come to name "King Slayer".

In the short time that followed Dains death, the people were freed from their enslavement and the Elements of Harmony were restored along with the rule of Princess Celestia who would crown the young chieftain King in The North and soon after the two kingdoms were united and brought about an age of peace and prosperity for the people.

As Applejack finished the story, she smiled at the children sound asleep in their beds and proceeded to give each of them a good night kiss.

"I like that story..." Beorn whispered in his sleep as the mares left the room quietly.

Meanwhile

On the borders of The Crystal Empire, Wulfric and a band of his best warriors had arrived at the settlement that had been raided and what they found was shocking. Scores of arrows seemed to cover the entire village and there was blood covering almost every inch of the snow but what was most disturbing was that all the buildings were instantly frozen.

"What in Odins name did this?" Asked one of the warriors as he reached for one of the arrows but the second he touched it, his hand instantly became cold and had almost frozen off.

"Magic arrows. Don't touch em." Said Wulfric as he drew his claymore and began searching the buildings for any survivors but all he found were walls decorated with blood yet something seemed off.

"Where are the bodies?"

End.

A Rising Evil

"Where are the bodies?" Wulfric asked himself as he looked around the rooms of the empty house only to find nothing but bloodstained walls and broken furniture. There weren't even any signs of looting or pillaging.

"You boys find anything?"

"No sire."

All of this seemed strange since there were clear signs of a battle yet no bodies were to be found and things seemed quiet until a gust of wind blew out of nowhere followed by what sounded like a ghostly whinny that sent a chill up their spines.

"What was that?!?" One of the soldiers shouted while looking around for the source of the noise.

"That was not of this world..." Another said while keeping his guard up.

The wind began to pick up until a blizzard began blowing through the ruins of the town and just as quickly as it appeared, it vanished leaving nothing but an eerie calm and a mist surrounding the village.

"There's something evil about this frost...I can feel it."

"Stay calm and keep searching."

The band searched the entire village from top to bottom yet all they seemed to find were more of those strange arrows and empty rooms with bloodstained walls until one of the warriors finally spotted a survivor sitting among the frozen buildings.

"Hey! Are you alright?" Wulfric called out to the stranger but received no answer.

"It's okay we're here to help!"

As the group got closer they began to smell a foul odor in the air and assumed it might have been some rotten food that had been laying nearby but when they got a clear view of the villager they noticed he was dressed in tattered clothes and the smell was in fact coming from him.

"He must've hid in the sewers during the attack." Said the soldier who placed a hand on the shoulder of the villager before the stranger turned around snarling with a rotting face and cold blue eyes.

SCREEEEEE!!!

"ODINS BEARD!!"

The creature lunged at the soldier as it went for his throat before being pinned down by two spears yet despite having been run through it continued to snarl and thrash about like a rabid dog on a leash.

"What the devil is that?!?" Another cried out while keeping a safe distance.

"A draugr..." Wulfric answered before stabbing the creature through its head killing it almost instantly.

The draugr were the undead creatures of the northlands that were created during the tyranny of Stonehoof, most were former villagers and farmers that died in the winter of that year and others were soldiers who were executed as traitors and left without a proper burial. The only thing keeping these shambling husks bound to the mortal world was their uncontrollable desire for blood and the hatred they felt at the moment of their deaths.

"This makes no sense...the Draugr never venture this close to the border."

"Keep a sharp eye out. These creatures seldom walk alone."

It was at that moment, the group heard the ghostly whinny once more as a gust of wind blew in from out of nowhere but this time there was someone or something with it.

"There!" A soldier shouted after spotting a figure just up the road.

A unicorn with a ghostly white coat and mane stood at a distance from the band of warriors and stared at them with cold blue eyes that seemed to give off a chill of their own.

"Who are you?" Wulfric called out to the stranger but was met with silence.

"Insolent wretch! Answer our king!!" shouted the soldier next to him but the strange unicorn remained silent before raising both arms as strange lights began to dance around the air.

"What the hell is he doing?" Wulfric asked before the strange being let out the ghostly whinny they had been hearing and before their very eyes, the warriors began to see the bodies of the slain villagers rise out of the snow while the others stepped out of the mist covering the village.

As the creatures continued to rise out of the snow, Wulfric and his warriors suddenly found themselves being surrounded on all sides and against such overwhelming numbers they knew there was no way they could win this fight.

"Get to the airship...run! RUUUN!!!"

The group bolted back to the ships as fast as their feet could carry them while the undead began to give chase as they snarled and screeched when one of them managed to grab hold of one of the soldiers and began tearing into his flesh like a rabid beast while he desperately tried to fight them off.

"KEEP MOVING!!" Wulfric shouted as they looked back to see the carnage until finally reaching the ship.

"Cut the lines! Quickly!!"

The warriors did as commanded and proceeded to hack off the mooring lines with great haste as the undead began trying to climb unto the ship.

"Hack em down!!" Shouted the ships captain as he and his crew took up arms and began to repel the undead that managed to make it on the ship save for one who had it entire lower torso cleaved off.

"As I live and breathe, an actual Draugr." Said the captain looking impressed while the crew prepared to finish off the beast.

"Wait!" Said Wulfric who looked at the creature snarling at him.

"Get this one in a cage. We need to inform Shining Armor of what happened here. Set sail for the Crystal Empire now!"

The crew did as their king ordered and proceeded to bind the creature with chains and rope before stuffing it in a small cage for the rest of their voyage back to the empire. As the ship sailed towards the light of the Crystal Empire, Wulfric looked back towards the village now hidden beyond the horizon and began to wonder who that strange white unicorn was and how was he able to command such horrifying magic. All answers would be revealed once he explained everything to Shining Armor

Later

When Shining Armor received word that his friend had been attacked at the settlement, he quickly called for the castle physicians to prepare their equipment and ordered a few of his guards to help any wounded off the ship as it docked onto the harbor. The gangplank was instantly lowered and already they could see a few members of the crew had bloody bandages on various parts of their bodies and helping one of these men was Wulfric himself.

"Get this man a doctor!" The king of the north shouted urgently as two guards helped the injured crewmen onto a stretcher before Shining Armor ran over to greet his old friend.

"Wulfric! Thank Celestia you're alright. I heard about what happened." Shining said as he gave a firm hug to his old friend while the rest of the guards went to help the injured crew members.

"Good to see you to old friend." Wulfric replied before Shining Armor noticed an object being lowered from the ship.

"What's in there?" The prince inquired as his friend whispered.

"We have a serious problem."

The king would say no more and asked the prince to have the cage brought to the throne room for a private meeting, Shining agreed and ordered his men to make sure that no civilians got near it and as he did so he could see the terror in Wulfrics eyes and wondered what could make a warrior as strong as him tremble with fear.

Shining soon met with Wulfric in the throne room with his wife and daughter as well as a few of his trusted advisors. Before the throne stood the king in the north and two of his elite warriors standing guard around the shrouded cage brought before them.

"I'm glad you arranged this meeting old friend. The north is in grave danger." the king said humbly as he bowed his head to the royal family.

"We are always glad to help Wulfric." Cadence replied with a gentle smile as the meeting began.

"Now as you all know, a settlement along the border was destroyed leaving no survivors. A few of my best warriors joined me to investigate the attack and what we found was that the entire village had been frozen over by enchanted arrows as well as a strange blizzard that seemed to appear out of nowhere.

"Did you find out who was responsible?" Shining Asked.

"Not Who was responsible Shining Armor. What." Wulfric replied with a cryptic answer as he turned to the cage while drawing his sword.

"Do it."

At their kings command, the warriors removed the shroud to reveal the snarling draugr inside. To say everyone in attendance was shocked would be an understatement as a few of the guards cringed back in fear while Flurry Heart clinged to her mother.

"What is that thing?!?" Shouted one of the advisors as he covered his nose from the horrid stench of the creature.

"This is a draugr." Wulfric replied.

"These undead monsters roam the frozen wastes and tombs of the north but a whole group of them raided the village killing everyone and to make matters worse it seems they were under the command of a unicorn mage."

"A mage?" Shining asked as his friend continued.

"I'll never forget his face. He had a ghostly white coat and mane and had these eyes so cold that I could feel my very blood freeze but what frightened me most of all was that sound he made as he raised the dead with his magic."

For a moment, Wulfric stood silent and could barely grip his sword as he took a deep breath to calm himself.

"Can these creatures be killed?" Asked another one of the advisors.

"Yes. One strike to the neck or head is enough to dispatch them and if the old stories are true then magics like fire and lightning should be able to bring them down as well."

To test his theory, Wulfric asked if one of the mages in attendance could cast a spell on the creature. Cadence was more than happy to oblige as she incinerated the beast with a blast of her magic along with the cage leaving nothing but a giant scorch mark on the marble floor.

"Uh...yeah, like that." Said Wulfric looking impressed while Shining just sat there with his mouth open.

"Thank you for warning us of this threat Wulfric. I will see to it that my aunts and Princess Twilight hear of this as well."

"No, thank you Princess Cadence. Now if you'll excuse me, I must retrieve my family and return home. Please inform me if you find anything else about this new enemy."

"We will, I promise."

Shining and Wulfric shook hands as the meeting came to a close and as the king in the north left to return to Ponyville, both Shining Armor and Cadence looked at each other with great concern.

"A ghostly white coat and mane with blue eyes and magic powerful enough to raise the dead....Cadence you don't think?"

"It's a possibility, that is why we must inform aunt Celestia at once."

End.

The True Hearthswarming Tale

In the weeks following Wulfrics grim discovery, Princess Cadence sent an urgent message to her aunts telling them of the growing threat in the north and began to make preparations for the refugees now fleeing from the outlying settlements. Most of them brought back tales of the undead rampaging through their homes and slaughtering anything that stood in their way without mercy and leading this massacre was the mysterious white unicorn who would vanish as quickly as he appeared with his minions. Who this mysterious mage was, nobody knew and none were more troubled by this than King Wulfric.

The king laid in his bed, staring at the ceiling as he began to think back on that first encounter. It all seemed like a terrible nightmare but he could not deny the fact that what he saw was real and it would only continue to grow worse if he did not find a way to deal with it soon.

"Something wrong hon?" Asked Applejack who interrupted his train of thought with a kiss.

"Why would something be wrong?"

"Let's see. Your two hot wives are lying naked in bed with you ready for some action and you are just staring at the roof." Answered Rainbow Dash who proceeded to straddle him with a grin as she pressed her chest up against him.

"How about you stare at these instead~?"

"You girls spoil me, you know that?"

Wulfric wasted no time in groping dashes chest and kissing her before turning his attention to Applejack who proceeded to press her endowed chest onto his face.

"That's it sugarcube~." The farm mare sighed in pleasure from her husbands touch as he began suckling and squeezing her breasts

"Hey Wulfric?" Rainbow called out while slowly turning around.

"Has my butt gotten bigger?" She asked while shaking her rump slightly with her mischievous grin.

"One way to find out~." He replied before his hands found their way back to her flanks.

"Oh my it has gotten a little squishy. Not that I'm complaining." He added before smacking her flanks hard as her wings sprang open while she let out a little squeak.

"You're not getting any sleep tonight sugarcube~." Applejack said while licking her lips in anticipation.

Meanwhile

In the halls of the Canterlot Library, Princess Celestia was busy reading through ancient tomes describing the known creatures and spells of Equestria but none seemed to match the description of the white mage Wulfric encountered and after hours of fruitless research she decided to pay a visit to the restricted section where she found a certain unicorn with a long gray beard and pointy hat. A unicorn that Celestia knew all too well.

"Starswirl?" The princess called out to her old teacher who was a bit surprised by her visit.

"Oh. Celestia, good evening." The old mage replied before returning his attention to an image of three ghostly equines standing over three ponies of the three tribes. Celestia recognized the story all too well.

"The story of hearthswarming eve."

"The true story."

Celestia became curious as her old mentor stepped aside to let her read the story for herself.

Year of The Three Tribes

In the year before the founding of Equestria, a mysterious blizzard began to blow down from the north. The three tribes were powerless to stop this unnatural force and soon began to fight over what little resources remained but the battle remained a bitter stalemate and generations of ponies were lost in that bloody war.

In hopes of putting a stop to the fighting, the leaders of the three tribes called for a truce and tried to formulate a plan to stop the blizzard but all attempts were in vain. The pegasus could not stop the clouds from moving in despite their wing power, the unicorns tried every spell related to weather control but all proved ineffective and no matter how hard they tried, the earth ponies could not make he soil fertile enough for even the smallest weeds to grow.

When all else failed, the leaders decided to venture beyond the borders of the kingdom in hopes of finding new land and find it they did in the form of a large valley with a single mountain that stretched high into the clouds with soil so fresh that grass seemed to spring up instantly. At first their were arguments over how to divide the land between the three factions but the tribes were able to come to a mutual agreement and before long, a small settlement was built and the first fields were planted but not all were in celebration of this new home.

When the unicorns leader; Princess Platinum returned to her father with the good news, the king became furious. He began shouting and cursing at his own daughter, telling her how she should have just made the other tribes submit and relinquish the land to them but the princess was too noble for such barbaric acts and in the midst of their argument the unicorn king banished his own daughter and forbade her from ever returning.

When the princess returned, the leader of the pegasai; Commander Hurricane saw the tears in her eyes and asked what had transpired between her and her father and when he found out, he became outraged and did his best to comfort her while they finished building the settlement. Over time, their relationship blossomed and the two were wed by High Chancellor Pudding Head in front of the entire village and a great celebration was held but before they could celebrate the same blizzard that destroyed their old home had found them once again but this time their was an army behind it; an army lead by the unicorn king.

When the king appeared before the villagers, he was escorted by three ghostly white mages that seemed to be the source of the blizzard and it was here that he began to show his true colors by threatening to lay waste to the village if the other three tribes did not submit to his rule and demanding that Commander Hurricane and his daughter be banished from the land but as before, his demands were refused and war soon followed.

The three leaders soon discovered that the king had used the forbidden art of necromancy to summon creatures from the spirit realm known as "Windigos" and if they did not stop him soon then all they had worked for would be undone.

It was in a small cavern atop the mountain where the three leaders had cornered the king in hopes of making him surrender but the princesses father was so blind by his arrogance and pride that he ordered the windigos to seal them in the cavern hoping that he could use his magic to make a last minute escape. His plans were cut short when Commander Hurricane ran him through with his spear thus severing his connection to the windigos and breaking the spell.

The kings body was laid in an unmarked tomb far in the north that had been sealed with magic and was kept secret from any who might seek the treasures buried there and to celebrate this great victory, a great feast was held for all to enjoy be they noble or peasant and in a surprising turn of events the three tribes began to sing songs together around the hearth and it was this event that lead to the feast being called "Hearthswarming Eve".

It was after Celestia closed the book that Starswirl shared a vital piece of information related to the ones who attacked the border.

"Before I found this book, I followed the trail of the undead through the frozen wastes and found the tomb mentioned in the story....it was opened."

Celestia gasped in shock for a moment as her mentor continued with his tale.

"I ventured into the tomb and found it to be deeper than any ever built and on its walls were depictions of the very story we just read but there was something else."

"What did you find?" Celestia inquired and Starswirl seemed hesitant to answer as he stroked his beard for a few moments.

"When the king bound himself to the windigos his very soul was cursed to become one upon his death so in fear of the creatures returning, Princess Platinum commanded my old pupil Clover to seal the tomb with as many spells and traps as possible so that he could never break free. however...."

"The spells became weak over the centuries..." Celestia finished with an approved nod from Starswirl.

"Now the unicorn king has returned to finish what he started thousands of years ago."

"Why? What does he have to gain?" The princess pondered and as Starswirl stroked his beard once more only one answer came to mind.

"Revenge."

End.

The Crystal Fair

While the threat of the north being investigated, The Crystal Empire was preparing for one of their biggest events of the year; The Crystal Fair.

Tents were put up, the stands were built and soon hundreds of ponies and other races came flooding into the city with music and laughter filling the air. Among the attendees were Princess Twilight and her friends along with Princess Celestia and her family as they came to watch the jousting tournament.

"Princess Celestia!" Twilight called out joyfully after seeing her old mentor.

"Twilight my prized pupil. It's good to see you." Celestia replied with a hug and a friendly peck to her pupils cheek before calling to her children.

"Imperius, Selena come say hello."

Twilight was more than happy to see Celestia and Luna's children since she had very few visits to the castle but what made her even more excited was the sight of her little niece; Princess Flurry Heart who was cooing and giggling while reaching for her favorite aunt.

"Hello Flurry~!" Twilight teased while tickling the little foal in her arms.

The royals made their way to the stands as the tournament began and met with their allies from the other nations including Queen Chrysalis of the Changelings and Prince Rutherford of the yaks.

"Ha ha! Pony friends!" The yak prince bellowed before grabbing Twilight and the others in a bear hug.

"ACK! Still too strong!" Pinkie cried out while trying to get some air before they were finally released and joining him on the stands.

As the jousting arena was prepared, all could see a variety of colorful banners decorating the fair with most being from the noble families of each nation and others of traveling knights seeking to make a name for themselves in hopes of being hired by a high ranking official or a member of royalty.

"So Marshall, I take it your boy is competing this year?" Wulfric inquired as they took their seats.

"Yes. He's old enough now and nothing hardens a squires mettle than a good jousting match."

"Speaking of squires. Where's Scootaloo, your old protegé?"

"Oh. she finished her training and went back to helping young blank flanks find their talents."

Their conversation came to a halt when they saw a towering yak warrior riding an even larger war bear in full plate armor and as the knight dismounted, the very ground around him shook beneath his weight.

"Who in Tartarus is that?" Marshall asked looking completely stunned.

"That is Yukon The Giant." Prince Rutherford answered with a look of disgust at the hulking brute.

"He win EVERY tournament in Yak Yakkistan and never loses."

"Why?"

"He kill every opponent."

As soon as the last of the stands were seated, Shining Armor gave the signal for the tournament to begin and the crowd was immediately on fire. The first match featured the giant himself against a knight from one of the noble houses who was dressed from head to toe in fancy armor that was decorated with a large feather.

"I really don't understand why helmets need feathers. It's just gonna flake off or get broken." Said Marshall as he shook his head towards the knight.

"It's just for decoration darling." Replied Rarity who was snuggling up to Spike who was looking rather cheerful.

"You seem to be in a good mood Spike. Care to tell us why?" Asked Twilight with a raised eyebrow to which Rarity replied with a wink.

"We'll tell you after the games darling."

The horn was sounded and both knights came charging at each other with full force before the giants lance found its way to his target and sent the knight flying into the air with his breastplate completely crushed. The crowd was stunned by this display of brutality as the medics rushed to the fallen knight who seemed to be unconscious at the time.

"He....he's dead." The medic said in shock as the crowd looked on in terror while the giant raised his broken lance in triumph towards the royals with a quick bow of the head before returning to his tent.

"My son is going up against that monster?!?"

"You worry too much old friend." Wulfric said to the concerned warden while taking a few sips of ale.

"You trained the boy since he first picked up a sword. He'll be fine."

"I hope so Wulfric. Celestia will have my head if our boy gets injured or worse."

"You do know I'm here dear husband?" The sun monarch said with a smirk that sent chills up the wardens spine before she comforted him by squeezing her breasts against his back.

"I would never do something so barbaric. At most, I'll let you sleep on the couch for a month." She teased with a kiss to his cheek as they continued to watch the matches progress until it was finally time for their son to participate in the final joust.

Imperius had won most of his matches perfectly with most of his opponents being unhorsed after one charge and it was no surprised that his parents were proud, especially his mother who waved at him from the stands and began cheering.

"Knock em dead sweetie!!"

"MOM?!?"

The prince hid his embarrassment by clamping down his visor while the crowd gave a short laugh. Their laughter would soon die out as they saw the giant making his way to the jousting field mounted atop a even more massive war bear.

"Oh man..." The young prince whispered under his breath as he looked at the hulking monster before him.

Both knights were given their lances with the crowd watching on the edge of their seats. The giant smirked at the young colt before him, thinking this would be another easy win and prepared to charge at the sound of the horn.

"Begin!" Shining Armor gave the signal for the match to begin as both knights came charging forward with the giant roaring like a wild beast. As the knights came to blows, the giants lance missed young Imperius completely while the princes lance found its mark and hit him straight in the chest and sent him toppling off his mount and into the dirt making the crowd burst into cheers.

"THAT'S MY BOY!!" Marshall shouted while giving an enthusiastic cheer and applause but not all were in celebration of the princes victory.

Infuriated by his humiliating defeat, the giant called for his squire to bring him his sword which was larger than most and immediately began attacking the prince.

"RAAGH!!"

Blow by blow, the princes shield began to splinter as he tried to fend off the brute attacking him while the guards stood their completely terrified. It was after the fifth strike that Beorn decided to intervene as he grabbed one of their swords shouting out.

"Leave him be!!"

The viking prince parried the giants last attack before it could hit its mark and the two immediately began fighting in front of the whole crowd before Prince Rutherford gave the command to stop.

"YAK PRINCE DEMAND YOU STOP NOW!!" He roared as Beorn quickly leaped back to a safe distance while his opponent threw down his sword and stormed off with the guards stepping aside. For a moment their was silence as Beorn helped his friend up with the crowd still stunned by his display of bravery.

"Thanks for having my back." Imperius said with gratitude as Beorn gave a smile and a firm handshake before Imperius raised his arm to the crowd as if he were the victor.

Both princes stood at attention as their parents came down from the stands while the rest of the crowd returned to the festivities.

"Imperius are you alright?" Celestia asked while looking at the exhausted expression on her sons face and checking the dented gauntlet on his left arm.

"I'm fine mother." The prince replied while a few servants began to remove his breastplate.

"That was very brave of you Beorn, you saved his life." Luna said to young Beorn who unfortunately was getting his ears pulled by his mother.

"YOU EVER PULL A STUNT LIKE THAT AGAIN AND I'LL GROUND YOU FOR A YEAR!!" Rainbow Dash shouted furiously while giving her sons head a noogie and then holding him in a headlock to pinch his cheeks with a bright smile.

"But I'm proud of ya kiddo."

"Thanks mom."

"The nerve of that guy. Tryin' to hurt Imperius just because he lost." Applejack said in disgust with her friends agreeing.

"I agree. The whole ordeal was exhausting." Said Rarity as she wiped the sweat from her brow and taking a deep breath while Spike helped her to sit down.

"You should take it easy Rarity." The young drake said with a worried expression.

"I'm fine Spikey dear." She replied with a smile until she noticed her friends shooting her.

"Something you two wanna tell us?" Asked Twilight when the couple looked at each other before blurting out.

"We're having a baby!!"

The friends were shocked for a moment and quickly became cheerful as they gathered around Rarity and Spike to express their happiness and like any big announcement, a party was thrown in their honor at the guest room of the crystal palace.

Rarity and Spike had been married since the end of the war and had been struggling to have a child of their own but most of the doctors they visited said that their would be a slim chance that the mare would be able to conceive a child from a dragon and they had even considered adopting a child until one day Rarity began to feel ill and more hungry than usual. It was after their last visit to the doctors that they finally got the news they had been waiting for.

"Ohh I'm so happy for you two! This'll be just like when Shining Armor and Cadence told me Flurry Heart was coming!"

"As long as the baby doesn't shoot bolts of magic or breath fire, I wanna be there when it arrives." Rainbow Dash said with a wink.

"Oh I'm sure the baby will be lovely as you Rarity." Said Fluttershy with a smile while rubbing her friends belly.

"And I'll bet it'll be as fiesty as his daddy." Applejack joked much to Spikes dismay as he began to imagine the baby causing all kinds of mischief before getting a friendly slap on the back by Wulfric who was feeling a bit buzzed from all the alcohol he consumed.

"So Spike, how many tries did it take?"

"I'M NOT ANSWERING THAT!!!" The young dragon shouted with his cheeks hot red.

"Really Wulfric, A couple does not discuss such private matters." Rarity replied while turning her nose up at the question, looking like a proper lady.

"Okay big guy, that's enough ale for you." Rainbow said sternly as she took the mug away and helped her husband to the couch while he groped her flanks.

"Did I ever mention how soft your flank is, Rainbow my Valkyrie?"

"Save it for the bedroom big guy~." She teased while continuing to let him feel her up before planting him on the couch.

"When you're sober, you can have me all to yourself~."

Rainbow turned around to rejoin the party and added a little sway in her hips to tease her drunk husband a little further while spanking her right flank and winking at him.

For the rest of the day the friends enjoyed themselves and the fair as the sun went down but just beyond the borders of the empire, A large army had gathered and was preparing to raid one of the outlying villages.

An army under the command of Prince Blueblood.

End.

Unwelcomed Visitors

While the tournament went on in the city, an outlying village was starting its day like any other. Baking shops and taverns fired up their kitchens while street vendors began to set up their stands and sell their wares to the villagers and children the went off to school unaware of the danger that was looming just beyond the empires barrier.

At the head of this army was Prince Blueblood dressed in royal attire with his elite guardsman at his side. The traitor prince looked on with a smirk at the happy citizens going about their day without a care in the world and to see such a sight filled him with envy and disgust.

"Look at them. Filthy commoners." A noble in the princes company said in disgust while watching the families pass through the streets with happy smiles.

After the fall of the stonehoof regime, much of the Canterlot nobility was exiled from the kingdom and that left a huge power gap in the royal court. Most of the nobles who fled sided with Prince Blueblood in hopes of regaining their status and earning a place in what would be the princes new government. Having lost most of their power and influence, the nobles had resorted to hiring mercenaries groups from the dragon lands and gryphon kingdoms until they had amassed a huge army.

The trouble began when a nearby watchtower spotted the princes banners and sounded the alarm. Villagers began screaming in panic as they cleared the streets and rushed back to their homes while the enemy marched on through towards the city where a small battalion of soldiers were prepared to intercept them with Shining Armor, Marshall and Wulfric at the head.

The army came to a halt at their princes signal as he rode out to meet with a few escorts to meet the three heroes in hopes of negotiating a peaceful solution rather than attempting to lay siege to the city knowing that he would lose a great deal of his troops.

"Good morning gentlemen." Blueblood said in a casual tone with a friendly smile.

"I trust you are all doing well today?"

"Save the pleasantries boy. What's your business here?" Wulfric replied in a slightly annoyed voice to which Blueblood simply smirked.

"So rude oh great king in the north and after I came all this way just to see my family."

"With an army at your back?"

"Can't be too careful these days."

Wulfric would say no more and allowed Shining Armor to handle the negotiations as he stepped forward to meet Blueblood face to face.

"What's this about Blueblood? You know that you were banished by Celestia's orders."

"I simply came to see my family. Surely, you can't object to that and I wished to talk peace."

Shining Armor knew it was unwise to trust a traitor like Blueblood but with an army of mercs behind him and so many citizens gathered at the empire for the fair, he had no choice but to allow him entry.

"Marshall." He called to the warden.

"Have Bluebloods men make camp OUTSIDE the villages. I don't want any trouble."

"As you command my prince."

While Marshall handled Bluebloods army, Shining Armor escorted his traitorous cousin to the palace and as to be expected, many of the citizens did not approve of him being there and even began to throw hateful slurs at him.

"Bastard!!"

"Traitor!!"

"Go back to the pit you crawled out of!!"

While Blueblood simply smiled and waved at the unhappy citizens, Shining could see the resentment in his eyes and could already tell that he was thinking of imprisoning or killing those who would dare to speak to him that way and the only thing stopping him were the two guards at his side and Wulfric who was riding behind them and doing his best to not reach for his sword and cleaving the smug bastard in two.

"We're here." Shining said aloud as the reached the entrance to the palace where the Princesses awaited to greet them.

"Aunt Luna! Aunt Celestia! So good to see you after all this time." Blueblood said cheerfully with arms open for a hug but the only thing Celestia and Luna wanted to give him was a spear right through the chest.

"Welcome dear nephew." Celestia said calmly while she and Luna stepped aside to offer him entry.

"Please join us, we were about to sit down for lunch."

As the prince made his way inside, Shining Armor and Wulfric moved quickly to disperse the crowd and told them to continue to enjoy the festival. It was in the dining hall that Blueblood introduced one of his escorts who turned out to be the Saddle Arabian ambassador.

"Prince Shining. I must say your palace is truly remarkable." The ambassador said with a flattering tone while eyeing the palaces decor and servants as the walked towards the dining hall.

"Especially the maids~." He said while looking at some of the maids flanks as they passed by.

"Mind your manners ambassador. This isn't Saddle Arabia."

"Yes of course."

The group entered the hall where a feast had been laid out for the fair and a huge crowd of both nobles and commoners had gathered much to the ambassadors disgust as he watched the crystal citizens mingle with each other like good neighbors when one figure caught his eye. It was Applejack who was seated with her friends and family and looking very beautiful thanks to the efforts of Rarity.

"Who is that exquisite beauty?" He asked with intrigue when Wulfric brushed past him to give her a kiss.

"That is Applejack. One of the northern rulers and Wulfrics first wife." Shining Armor replied, catching the ambassadors interest.

"First wife you say?" He said before seeing Rainbow Dash give him a kiss as Beorn and Apple Jewel ran up to their mothers with smiles on their faces.

"I see they have children."

"Yes. Wulfric is not only a great king but also a great father and friend so a bit of warning ambassador." Shining paused for a moment to look him in the eye.

"Do not cross him or me or there will be consequences."

"Wouldn't dream of it your majesty."

As the feast went on, Shining Armor noticed Blueblood chatting with Celestia and Luna who introduced their two children.

"Blueblood, meet your niece and nephew. Imperius and Selena." Celestia said with a feint smile while keeping the children close and despite the grin on Bluebloods face she could tell he wanted nothing more than to strangle both of them with his bare hands since they were a threat to his claim to the throne.

"Hello Uncle." Imperius said politely with a bow while Selena curtsyed like a proper princess and for a moment Blueblood felt happy until he noticed the boys father waltzing up to them with a tray of horderves and a small glass of cider.

"Lord Marshall."

"Blueblood."

Given their past history, the two stallions were not on good terms with one another and the war seemed to only make tensions worse but Marshall knew better than to keep his children from their family even though one of them was a traitor.

"Selena, take your brother to the dessert table and see if there's any chocolate pastries left. Your...Uncle and I have business to discuss."

The children did as they were told and left while their parents had a little chat with their uncle but both could see that this was not a happy reunion.

"I got a bad feeling about this." Selena whispered as her eyes looked at her uncle who had a sinister grin on his face and could see he was already planning something.

Later

As the fair came to a close, a small council was assembled to discuss the recent events that had transpired during the princes exile but when Blueblood heard the stories of the undead army and the windigos he almost laughed himself silly.

"So let me see if I get this straight. An army of the dead is marching through the northlands and they are being lead by the so called ghostly spirits that nearly froze Equestria for eternity?" He asked aloud before breaking into another laugh but Wulfric was not amused.

"THIS IS NO JOKE BOY!!" The king roared furiously while slamming the table.

"The army of the dead is real and if we don't do something soon, they'll blanket all of Equestria in eternal ice! Not one soul will be left alive."

"Well if the threat is as big as you say then there's but one solution."

"If you mean becoming allies with Saddle Arabia dear nephew then I will stop you right there. We absolutely refuse!" Celestia said sternly much to her nephews disappointment.

"Honestly auntie, I don't know why you are being so stubborn. Saddle Arabia could give us the men and weapons we need to defeat this so called army of the dead."

"They also run an empire of slaves." Luna replied spitefully while taking a small sip of tea to calm herself.

"Equestria has not seen slavery since it was founded and that is not going to change."

After hearing his aunt make that declaration, the prince became impatient and arguments soon filled the room until Blueblood finally screamed out.

"If you will not see reason then it will be war!!"

The room stayed quiet with the members of the council stunned by the princes threat. Only Celestia stood up and glared hatefully at her disgraced nephew as she replied.

"Then war it will be."

End.

A Kingdom at War

Blueblood had made good on his threat to declare war against Equestria. With the help of the noble faction and the Saddle Arabian emperor, the prince rallied many banners to his cause and began marching his armies towards the borders while burning and pillaging any settlements along the way, leaving very few survivors.

News of the invading forces didn't take long to reach Canterlot and a call to arms was sounded. From every corner, Equestria and its allies began signing up for what was surely to be the greatest war since the reign of Dainn Stonehoof.

Many of the new recruits were young ones eager to prove their worth in battle while gaining fame and riches and the rest were veterans of the previous war and saw it only as their duty to help protect the kingdom once again.

"Line up and don't crowd! Every one will get a chance to sign up." Shouted one of the guards as he began to corral the citizens into an organized group while at the head of the line was one of the royal guard captains scribbling down the names of the new recruits.

"And why do you wanna sign up?" He asked the next volunteer in line as was customary when recruiting new soldiers.

"Well sir I come from a long line of soldiers." The citizen replied nervously.

"Same story with everyone here kid. Sign here and we'll get you outfitted for your armor."

The young colt did as was told and proceeded down the line to be given his equipment while the captain continued to write down more names of the seemingly endless citizens eager to sign up but instead of smiling he shook his head and sighed for they didn't know what truly awaited them in this war.

"Look at them, poor young fools." Said an old stallion drinking ale with his friend in a nearby tavern.

"Reminds me of us." Said the other while rubbing his leg.

"Just looking at that line makes my knee ache."

"That arrow injury acting up still?"

"Yup."

The two old stallions were veterans of the previous war who had retired, one was an old pegasus whose wings had become too stiff to even hover above the ground and the other was an earth pony who received a serious leg injury that left him crippled and forced to use a cane to get around and like many veterans of the war, they were avoided by the citizens like they were diseased or dangerous. But there were still those who cared for the old soldiers and did not feel any shame in showing it.

"Here ya go boys. Have another round on the house." The innkeeper said with a smile as he gave the two elders a pint of cider and while some of the other customers understood his generosity, others seemed to be offended by it.

"Oh so they get special treatment just because they got military privileges?" One patron shouted as he looked at the two old stallions.

"Why should they get free stuff when the rest of us work so hard to get by?"

"So you don't think we've worked hard enough do ya?" The old earth pony said sternly as he limped his way to the customer who scoffed at him.

"Tell me kid, were you born after or during the war?"

"After." The customer replied while trying to keep his composure.

"Then the one with the privilege is you. I fought for this kingdom! I bled for it, killed for it, flames of Tartarus! I even broke one of my legs for it in hopes for a brighter future for ungrateful punks like you!!" The old veteran lost his breath for a moment and was helped to a nearby seat by one of the other customers.

"If there's anyone who has privileges kid it's you. You get to walk wherever you want, do whatever you want and eat whatever you want without fear of being killed or persecuted."

As the old stallion calmed down, the owner of the tavern glared angrily at the one who insulted him as he told him something that took him by surprise.

"And he's not getting free drinks just because he's a veteran. He's getting them because he's my dad and I wouldn't even be here if it wasn't for him!"

The customer who had complained said nothing as all eyes stared shamefully at him and without another word, he paid for his meal and stormed out of the tavern while the owner attended to his ailing father.

"Pop are you alright?"

"I'm fine my boy. Just out of breath."

The customers resumed to dine as the tension died down when they noticed a squad of northmen walking down the streets fully armed and marching towards the castle.

"They must be King Wulfrics men."

"Back from another scouting mission I bet."

The northerners made their way to the castles main hall where Celestia and Luna had been awaiting vital intelligence regarding the growing conflict on the borders.

"Your majesty. The King in The North sent us with an urgent report, said it's for your ears only." Said the viking at the head of the group who proceeded to kneel before the two monarchs.

The sun princess ordered for the room to be cleared after having her servants bring their guests some refreshments for their long journey.

"What news?" Princess Luna inquired as they began to fill their bellies.

"Prince Blueblood has assembled his armies. The barons who have pledged fealty to him have sent him every knight they have, some have even gone so far as to hire mercenaries."

"And....the other army?" Celestia said in a hushed voice, knowing that even the most secluded rooms still have ears.

The messenger proceeded to look around before approaching the princesses ear and whispered.

"The army of the dead is proceeding towards the empire, they're raiding every unmarked grave and crypt in the north. They're estimated to be at least a thousand strong. More appear every day."

This news troubled both princesses greatly as they had no way of dealing with such power and with the conflict now brewing in the west, it was only a matter of time before Equestria would be facing a war on both fronts.

"How is King Wulfric preparing for all of this?"

"He has assembled the leaders of the four clans for an emergency summit."

Meanwhile in the north

At the great city of Valkenheim, the leaders of the four clans assembled in the great hall of King Wulfric to discuss the growing threat that was the army of the dead and the dreadful blizzard that followed in their wake. Much of the clans people had suffered famine and sickness because of the growing weather conditions and with the armies of Blueblood marching along the border, things seemed to be getting worse for the kingdom.

"My lord our people are suffering! We've lost almost half a years worth of crops and most of the rivers have been frozen over! We can't even fish anymore!" Shouted one of the chieftains over the clamor of voices filling the hall.

"The proper course is clear! We must evacuate the northlands and move south to Equestria!"

"And risk getting caught up in their war? I would sooner freeze to death and join the windigo army!"

"ENOUGH!!" Wulfric shouted with a clang of his sword and the room became instantly quiet. The king sat from his throne and marched to the center of the hall where a map of the northlands and Equestria was placed.

"How is the war going in Equestria?" He asked one of his advisors who stepped forward holding a quill and scroll.

"Prince Bluebloods army continues to march along the borders, they are pillaging any settlements they find. Most of the villages that were destroyed held both equestrians and our own people."

"And the army of the dead?"

"Their movements appeared to have stopped. Seems they are waiting for something and though we have superior numbers I do not recommend facing them in a blizzard sire."

Wulfric shut his eyes for a moment as he began to process his thoughts and tried to decide the best course for his people but each idea seemed to be the lesser of two evils and of course there was his family to consider. After a brief pause, Wulfric took a deep breath as he announced his final decision.

"Send word to all the clans in the north, We make for Equestria with all haste. I want every seed of grain and every last piece of livestock on board a ship at once!"

"Yes sire!"

The announcement to abandon the north was soon given and it came as no surprise that many of the citizens were in protest of their kings decision while others simply gathered their things and began boarding up their houses for the coming winter.

"By order of the king, the lands of the north must be evacuated!" Shouted a soldier standing atop a pedestal.

"We make for the lands of Equestria. Do not burden yourselves with treasures, take only what provisions you need!"

By noon, the entire population of the north was gathered in a mass exodus as the people boarded the ships with their loved ones while others decided to take the long way and journey along the roads. Wulfric and his family were among those few.

The refugee column traveled along the main road with an armed escort lead by the king himself while his wives and children road along in a wagon guarded by their dire wolves. Applejack and Rainbow Dash sat quietly with their children as they listened to the sound of the wheels rolling along the road and the marching of the soldiers guarding the column.

"It'll be great to be back home after so long." Said the farm mare while stroking her daughters head.

"Yeah. I wonder what Twilight's been up to?" Rainbow said in reply as she looked at Beorn who was sound asleep on her lap when their husband appeared in the window.

"How are the children?" He inquired while looking at his little ones.

"Sound asleep hon." Applejack replied with a smile.

"First thing we're gonna do after we settle in, I wanna take the kids on a camping trip."

"Camping? In the middle of a war?"

"War hasn't reached Ponyville yet and with the recent events going on, I wanna make sure I spend as much time with them as possible."

"Wouldn't you rather go on a trip with just us~?" Rainbow teased with a toothy grin to which Wulfric replied.

"Some other time dear."

The couple laughed to themselves for a short moment when an arrow suddenly lodged itself into the side of the wagon as several more came whistling out of the woods killing several civilians and guards.

"AMBUSH! PROTECT THE KING!!"

The caravan was attacked by what appeared to be unicorns in eastern armor yet they appeared to have dragon traits as well and their fighting style was much different than that of the changelings.

"Who are they?!?" A soldier shouted while holding one of them back with his shield.

"Mercenaries by the look of them but I don't recognize their armor!!"

As the fighting raged on outside, Applejack peeked out the window to see the armored assailants and instantly recognized them.

"THOSE GUYS ARE KIRIN!!" The farm mare shouted when one of them sliced the door open with his sword. The children screamed in fright as they clinged to their mothers but as the Kirin warrior raised his sword, Arya and her wolves pounced and began tearing through his armor and wrenching him apart with their jaws.

In the center of the fight was Wulfric hacking away at several more Kirin who had cornered him just a short ways from the caravan.

"This is the one! Take his head!!" Shouted a Kirin dressed in more decorative armor as the group surrounded Wulfric.

The king in the north fought fiercely as the enemy surrounded him until finally only their leader was left. However, Wulfric had sustained a heavy injury and was loosing a fair amount of blood before his men finally found him and carried him back to the caravan for treatment.

"Let us help you sire." Said one of the guards as he helped his king to stand.

"Where's my family?" Wulfric grunted as the pain throbbed in his injury.

"They're safe my lord."

The soldiers then dragged the kirin before their king with a blade to his throat and every fiber of Wulfrics being said that they should just gut him and leave him for the crows but this one had the answers they needed as to who was behind the attack and why.

"Take this one with us. If he tries to escape, break his legs."

End.

Royal Duties

Morning rose on Canterlot as the first glimpses of sunlight peeked through the windows of the royal bedroom to awake lord reagent Sir Marshall but before the warden could even inch himself out of bed, he was seized by two arms that wrestled him back down and found himself being straddled by Luna who seemed peculiarly happy this morning despite her nighttime duties.

"Morning dear husband~." She said sweetly while giving him a kiss.

"I must be dreaming if the Princess of The Night is here to greet me." He teased with a smile that made her giggle before holding her close.

"I assure you husband, this is no dream."

"Really? Cause I don't recall your flank being so...squishy~."

"Are you saying I've grown fat?"

Luna's expression turned sour for a moment when she was pulled down for another kiss and Marshalls arms began to gently embrace her.

"If I said "Yes" would that be a compliment or a death sentence?" He inquired before groping her once more as the morning sun began to shine through the window.

"I suppose I should get dressed. Imperius needs his daily training." The warden sighed while trying to get out of bed but Luna and her magic had other plans

"Celestia has it covered." She said while using a spell to hold him down as she removed her night gown and gave him a seductive look that seemed to almost hypnotized him.

"For now, your princess commands that you satisfy her~." She whispered while undoing the spell and moved his hands to her chest. Marshall seemed rather impressed by her boldness.

"Hm. As you command....my love."

Meanwhile

In the Canterlot courtyard, a small crowd had gathered to see Prince Imperius on his daily training regiment but today was particularly special when the heard about who he was sparring against.

The prince stood in the center of the crowd, dripping in sweat and completely out of breath with one hand planted on the ground keep him balanced and the other barely holding onto his spear.

"What's wrong? don't tell me that's all you've got!" Shouted a female voice that seemed to annoy him as he took off like a shot towards his opponent and began zig zagging through the air like a bullet.

"Hm using your speed to confuse your opponent. Smart." The mysterious mare complimented with a grin before blocking his attack with ease.

"But not smart enough."

The prince was then instantly dropped to the ground like a sack of rice as a cloud of dust filled the courtyard. For a moment, everything was hazy until Imperius found himself staring down the tip of a gold plated halberd with a sun crest decorating the blade and the one holding that weapon was none other than Celestia herself; the princes own mother.

"You still have a lot to learn sweetie." Celestia said with a smug grin before helping her son up and dusting him off like any mother would despite his objections.

"Mother! stop I can dust myself off!"

"Oh hush and stand still."

A few of the guards could not help but snicker at the young princes predicament as his mother finished dusting out his wings and even began to fix his mane as if he were preparing for a school photo.

"There. All handsome."

"Mother..."

Celestia could not help but smile and cuddle her son despite his protests and even proceeded to walk him back inside while having the servants prepare their breakfast.

"I hope you worked up an appetite sweetie. I made your favorite."

"Double chocolate chip pancakes?"

"Mm hm."

Imperius wasted no time in gorging himself on the stack of flapjacks before him after sitting down and despite being raised a royal he was lacking in table manners when in came to his favorite breakfast as the pancakes were smothered with syrup. It was at this moment when Celestia's secretary; Raven appeared with the usual stack of paperwork for her to sign.

"I take it your son worked up an appetite again?" She inquired while fixing her glasses and helping herself to a cup of coffee.

"Indeed. He trains hard like his father."

Celestia used her magic to take the stack of paper from Raven and began to skim through the documents and sign her name faster than lighting which always seemed to be an impressive skill even for a princess.

"How goes the housing for the refugees?" She inquired after signing the last document.

"Things are going well your majesty but to be honest our borders are getting rather crowded." Raven replied while following the princess to the other end of the table.

"Have the foreman of every construction crew brought to me at noon. Perhaps we can build a settlement for them."

"Understood."

Raven departed the dining hall after receiving her orders and allowed Celestia to dine with her son who was chugging down a cup of apple juice after some food got stuck in his chest.

"I told you to slow down when eating sweetie."

"Yes mother."

It wasn't long before Luna and Selena appeared and joined them for the morning feast while discussing the events planned for today. The family were planning a trip to Ponyville to inspect the growing refugee population as well as visit Twilights school before appearing in some public events to help boost the morale of the citizens now that war was inevitable.

"So good of you to join us sister. You look refreshed." Celestia said after noticing the satisfied look on her sisters face.

"Thank you sister."

Marshall entered shortly after and seated himself between the children who he greeted with kisses to their foreheads and a warm smile.

"Morning daddy!" Selena said with a smile of her own as the servants prepared a stack for him and poured a cup of coffee.

"You were late getting out of bed this morning." Celestia pointed out with a smirk as her husband took a sip while Luna turned her head away with a slight blush as they continued their breakfast.

"Well you know how it is. Training the troops, doing paperwork." Marshall responded casually though Celestia could see the drop of sweat trickling down the side of his head as they continued to dine.

"So how did Imperius do in his training this morning? I heard you two tore up the courtyard."

"He's learning. Though he could use more flying lessons."

Both rulers smiled for as they finished their breakfast and their children went to attend their morning lessons while their parents made their way to the throne room to deal with the council and daily get togethers with the nobles, one of which being a tea party with Fancy Pants in the gardens.

The event was not only a good distraction but it was a great way for the princesses to keep in contact with their closest friends as well as hear about the latest gossip going on around the kingdom, Marshall would also be attending with the captains from the city guard as security but that did not stop them from enjoying the small banquet set under the gardens gazebo.

"I love security detail." Said one of the guards as he dined on some cakes from the desert table while the other helped himself to some sandwiches.

"Just don't overdo it boys. We're on duty." Marshall replied while grabbing a small plate as he went over to join Celestia who was talking with Fancy Pants himself.

"I'm so glad you were able to make it your highness." He said before taking a sip of tea while listening to the music playing in the background while Celestia helped herself to a sandwich.

"As am I Fancy Pants. It's nice to get away from work once in a while though I can't say the same for some ponies." Celestia replied while looking at Marshall who was surveying the party guests for any suspicious activity.

"Marshall my boy, come sit down!" Fancy pants called while offering some refreshments and though he was reluctant at first, the warden strapped his sword to the chair and joined them for tea.

"It's been too long old boy."

"Indeed it has. Haven't seen you since the Harvest Festival in Ponyville."

Fancy Pants was one of the many secret supporters who helped finance the campaign against Dain Stonehoof during the war and was also the one who kept Rarity's sister safely hidden. When the stonehoof regime finally fell, he was the first to help reestablish the old government and help the victims who were affected most by the conflict and overtime he became a popular influence among the commoners as well as the nobility.

Marshall had come to befriend Fancy after meeting him at a few parties and ceremonies. Because of his noble upbringing he was able to get along with him quite well and would often listen to his council when it came to matters of state or matters of family especially when he learned that Celestia and Luna were having both his children.

"I hear your boy is becoming quite popular among the recruits in the royal academy." Fancy said while pouring his friend some tea.

"Indeed. He's a fast learner but a bit rash when it comes to combat training." Marshall replied while taking a sip and helping himself to a few sweets laid on the table.

"However, he is doing terribly at chivalry training." he sighed with a bit of disappointment.

"The moment he even looks at a girl, he starts to molt."

"Well then perhaps we could ask a certain Viking Ruler we all know to teach your boy about the opposite sex?" Fancy joked with a smirk as Marshall sprang from his seat, cheeks pink from blushing.

"Absolutely not! If Wulfric's gonna teach anything about women to my boy it's how to bed them!"

The party laughed for a moment as Celestia seated her husband back down while he caught his breath.

"Speaking of which. Where is the old Stag?" Fancy inquired while fixing another cup of tea.

"He's busy evacuating the northlands as we speak, in fact he should've arrived at the border days ago."

It was at that moment a messenger rushed into the gardens carrying a scroll for Sir Marshall and as the warden read the scroll his expression became filled with worry and concern before he slowly stood up from his chair and whispered an order to the messenger before sending him off.

"Marshall what is it?" Luna inquired as her husband strapped his sword to his waist.

"Something's happened at the border. I'm joining a scouting party to investigate."

Celestia could instantly tell that something was amiss and did not hesitate on insisting that she accompany him to the border despite his objections and while this worried some of the party guests, Luna assured them that it was nothing more than a simple errand that needed her sisters attention.

After forming their party, Marshall and his best knights rode out with Celestia at the head of the group dressed in full battle armor and as they departed the city many citizens looked on with concern since news of Bluebloods invasion had already begun to spread like wildfire and already began fearing the worst.

"Our scouts report that Wulfrics caravan was ambushed on the royal highway. We'll hook up with another unit at the border and begin our search!" Marshall shouted over the trampling of their steeds as his soldiers acknowledged his orders while Celestia looked on towards the horizon fearing the worst and prayed for the safety of her friends.

"Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Wulfric...please be safe."

End.

Battle Born

While Marshall and his troops made their way to the border, the northern refugees made camp on the road to heal their wounded after the recent ambush. Many of their guards were badly wounded but most were not so lucky in the attack as the fallen warriors were buried on a small hill by their loved ones.

Wulfric who was clearly the target of the attack watched from his tent while Applejack tended to his wounds. The one who had attacked him was a kirin soldier who they had managed to capture for interrogation.

"Has our guest said anything?" The king inquired while Applejack finished bandaging up his wounds.

"Not a peep sugarcube."

"Must be well trained not to speak under pressure."

"Trainings got nothing to do with it."

Applejack reached into her pocket and pulled out a vial containing a small droplet of water which left her husband a little confused.

"Water?"

"Water from the stream of silence. The kirin once drank from it in order to keep themselves from turning into Niriks, these guys must've kept a vial for themselves in case they ever got captured."

"So that's why none of em screamed when I gutted them."

Wulfric thanked his wife for the information and allowed her to take the dirty bandages away but as usual, his eyes found themselves locked on her firm flank which he could not help but grope much to his wifes pleasure.

"Now watch those hands mister, I might break em~." She teased letting him feel her up.

"With an ass like this? I don't doubt it.~" He replied before giving a firm smack that made her squeak before pulling her down and setting the dirty rags aside.

"Mmm you sure you wanna do this hon~?" Applejack asked while her husband kissed her neck and slide a hand down her pants.

"Come on Applejack, you know I like a good romp after a fight~." Wulfric growled before revealing her left breast and biting down hard to make her squeak once more. Applejack didn't mind of course but she was concerned about her husbands injuries.

"Mmm Wulfric we really shouldn't."

"If you want me to stop just say so."

Wulfric proceeded to undress his beloved mare and feel her up but she did not object once and soon enough she found herself completely nude and at his mercy. He stopped only for a moment to gaze at her body and found every inch of it beautiful, from her long golden hair to even the scars that still decorated her back.

Applejack gently pulled him back down to resume their love making and even allowed him to bite her shoulder as more of his animal instincts began to take over.

"Growl my she wolf~." He said in an almost demanding tone to which Applejack happily responded as she growled feeling his hands squeeze her flanks again.

"That's my girl."

"Yours forever sugarcube~."

Meanwhile

While the rest of the camp was resting, Applejewel and Beorn had gone into the forest to gather firewood but made sure not to stray too far from each other.

The forest was like something out of a dream, Icicles that dangled down from the frozen branches sparkled and glimmered like diamonds, the sound of a nearby stream soothed the minds of any who heard it and the snow was deep enough that each step made a crunching sound like rock candy under your feet; A perfect place for two children to play and that is just what they did.

"Think fast little brother!"

The second Beorn turned around, his face was pelted by an ice cold snowball and that made his sister laugh to the point where she had to hold her sides but her brother was not about to let this go unpunished.

"In the words of Aunt Rarity: It. is. ON!!"

The young stag made a snowball of his own and threw it right in his sisters face making her gasp in shock and before you knew it, the two began a little snowball war as they darted around the frozen trees and bushes looking for cover while trying to hit one another.

"I can't miss! what's wrong sis? Got something in your eye?" Beorn boasted as he began pelting his sister from atop a tree branch leaving her little chance to find cover."

"Oh now you've done it!" Applejewel shouted back as she charged the tree and began to shake it. The snow on the branches fell onto Beorn like a mini avalanche as he fell back down and cried out after feeling some of the snow slide down his back.

"AH!! COLD!!"

"Oh you don't like that huh? here! let me give you some more!!"

With a sadistic grin, Applejewel began stuffing snow down her brothers shirt making him scream louder until he finally relented the snow battle to her. As he began to shake the snow off his clothing, his sister did a little victory strut while grabbing her firewood and told her brother to meet up at camp after noticing the sun was getting low.

Beorn decided to take a quick stroll through the woods since he liked to go exploring, he marked the trail using broken branches so as not to get lost and had even found some frozen berries for a snack which he planned to share with his family but what he found next took him by surprise.

The young prince heard a small clank underneath his foot and paused to shuffle away the snow and their on the ground laid a rusted shield baring the crest of The Golden Sun.

"Whoa..."

As he held the shield in his hands, Beorn began to noticed more rusted weapons and armor strewn across the ground. He had stumbled onto a battlefield of the great war frozen in time by the ice and as he began to pass through he could hear the sounds of clashing steel and war cries in his mind as his imagination began to picture what the battle was like since all he had were bedtime stories of his father and mothers as heroes of the war.

His daydreaming however was cut short when he heard the familiar scream of his sister and rushed back down the marked trail leaving the shield behind. He continued to follow the screaming until finally finding his sister but at the mercy of a gang of bandits who had managed to restrain her.

"Well well boys looks like we got lucky." Said the one holding Applejewel up by the chin looking at her features.

"Mm she's pretty good looking. fifteen, possibly sixteen years old? and check out the rack she's sporting. What cup size are you sweetie?"

Applejewel would answer his question by biting down on his hand so hard that the bones actually crunched as he wrestled it away from her mouth before smacking her across the face.

"Ah! you bitch!!" he cursed while shaking off the pain.

"I'm gonna teach you a lesson! Strip her boys!!"

The group laughed as they did what their leader instructed and even began groping the poor filly's personal areas while forcing her on the cold snow.

"GET OFF ME!!" She sobbed as her pants were pulled down.

The bandits had crazed looks on their faces as they looked at the helpless filly before them and this was all Beorn could take.

"Alright boys line up! You all can get a crack at this little slut once I'm do-ACK!!"

SHINK!!

The leader was impaled by an icicle that beorn wrenched from a nearby tree and after the first blow had made contact, he yanked it out of the assailants back and began to viciously stab him over and over before finally leaving it lodged in his back.

"Holy crap! Did you see what he just did?!?" Said one of the bandits now trembling in fear.

"What're you afraid of? he's just a kid! We got him outnumbered!!" Another shouted back as he charged the young stag.

Beorn stared back at his attacker unafraid as he reached into the snow and pulled out a large rock which he used to smash in his opponents face in the same brutal manner before taking a dagger from his belt and stabbing him in the left eye making him scream in agony.

"What is this kid?!?"

"He's a monster!!"

The rest of the group met the same grizzly end as the prince lashed out at them one after another until there was nothing left but mangled bodies and pools of blood. After catching his breath, Beorn rushed to his sisters side and covered her up using one of the cloaks from the bandits while holding her close.

"Shh I got you." He whispered to his sibling when he heard footsteps coming towards them.

"Stay here!"

Beorn grabbed a sword from one of the bandits and prepared for another fight when he spotted torch lights and heard familiar voices calling out for him and Applejewel.

"Beorn?" Rainbow Dash called out while looking around for her little boy.

"Applejewel? Come out sweetie!" Shouted Applejack who spotted Beorn flagging them down.

"OVER HERE!!"

The scouting party rushed over and came upon the gruesome scene while the formed a protective circle around the children.

"Form up and keep a sharp eye out! We need to make sure there aren't any more of these bastards!"

"Geeze look at their faces! All smashed in...what did this?"

In that moment all eyes turned to the young prince who's hands were still stained with blood. Rainbow was the first to approach him and checked his body for injuries while he explained what had transpired.

"They....they were going to rape her! I couldn't let it happen I-!"

"Shh shh. It's okay sweetie." Rainbow cut him off mid sentence as he became frantic and calmed him with a hug like any mother would while Applejack carried her daughter who was still shaken up by the incident. When Wulfric heard the news he was nothing short of furious as his voice boomed outside of their tent.

"WHAT?!? THEY TRIED TO DO WHAT?!?" He roared furiously at the patrol party when Applejack managed to calm him down.

"Applejewel is fine hon. They didn't hurt her."

"Oh but I'm gonna hurt them-no! I'm gonna murder those sons of bitches!! where are they?!?"

"Well..." A guard paused for a moment in fear of the kings anger.

"Go on." Said Rainbow gesturing him to continue.

"They were already dead by the time we got there my lord. Your son...killed them with his bare hands!"

To say Wulfric was shocked would be an understatement as he looked on towards the rest of the party who nodded in agreement.

"It's true! I saw the bodies with my own eyes, all of them looked like they had been attacked by an animal!"

"Aye! The princes hands were still stained with their blood by the time we got there. Poor lad was shaken up when it was all over."

Applejack helped confirm their stories and the group was dismissed shortly after. It didn't take long for news of the princes fight with the bandits to spread around the camp and pretty soon all of Equestria would hear of it.

After finally calming down, Wulfric decided to check on his children who were now sound asleep in their beds and like any doting father he gave them a goodnight kiss and a gentle stroke on their heads with a proud smile.

"My little princes...and my brave little warrior." He said gently so as not to wake them before stepping out to join Rainbow and Applejack in bed.

"Kids okay?" Rainbow asked while snuggling up to his left side.

"Both are cozy and comfy." He replied while kissing her cheek but noticed the worried look on her face.

"What's wrong?"

"It's...It's Beorn. I just can't understand how he could do such a thing at his age..."

"Hmm...I think I know."

Wulfric gently moved his hand to Rainbows stomach where a large scar was located and as both laid hands on the old wound he began to smile.

"Do you remember his birth?"

"How could I not?"

Years Ago

It was just a few years after Applejewel was born. Rainbow who was now heavily pregnant was journeying with her family to a nearby village to check on the upcoming harvest, unfortunately they were ambushed by bandits who had been plaguing the lands for some time.

The attack came from all sides as guards fought desperately to fend off the enemy while Wulfric lead the counterattack wielding his sword "Kingslayer". Applejack stayed in the wagon at the center of the caravan with her crying infant held tight in her arms as they kept their heads down to avoid stray arrows.

During the battle, a bandit opened the carriage doors and began forcing the two mares out while little Applejewel cried annoying their attacker as he pulled out a dagger to silence her once and for all. Rainbow struggled to get him away from Applejack and her baby but in the process she was stabbed right in the stomach.

"AAAAGHHH!" The pegasus cried out in pain catching the attention of her husband who came rushing to their side as he cut the bandit down in one swing before cradling Rainbow in his arms.

"Don't speak. Save your breath..." He whispered trying to stay calm as possible but as Rainbow continued to bleed out he began to fear for her life and that of his unborn child.

"Wulfric you have to save the baby!" She whimpered as the pain coursed through her body.

Wulfrics face became pale as he knew there was only one way to save their child but it would come at the costs of Rainbows life.

"No...If I do that you might die!"

"And if you don't we both die!!" She argued with tears in her eyes before pulling out a dagger. At first, Wulfric hesitated thinking their might be another way but with both her life and the infants at stake he had no time to wait and after much effort he cut Rainbows belly open to retrieve their child while she screamed in pain.

Both could see that it was a little stag thanks to the stubs on his head but even as Rainbow held him he did not stir nor breath and she began to fear the worst even as she felt her strength beginning to fade.

"Breathe sweetie please breathe!" She pleaded to the stillborn child in her arms and again there was nothing.

It wasn't until the fighting had settled down that the baby began to stir and slowly he sprang to life and began to cry in his mothers arms. Both Rainbow and Wulfric were overjoyed to see their child survived but for Rainbow things were looking grim as she had lost so much blood.

"Name your son." He said gently while leaning his forehead against hers.

"Beorn...his name is Beorn." Rainbow whispered before finally passing out.

Having feared her dead, Wulfric looked on in shock while holding his newborn son but instead of weeping he raised the child high into the air and gave a mighty battle shout that seemed to raise the spirits of the warriors around him.

A healer from the nearby village came to help the now dying Rainboow dash and by some miracle had saved her, earning him the kings eternal gratitude as well as the clans.

When the Warborn heard the news, the clan elders inspected the newborn infant to ensure he did not suffer any injuries during the birthing process yet as they held him, the boy did not cry or squirm. He was truly fearless.

"There is no doubt in my mind." Said the elder handing Rainbow back her son.

"You son is Battle Born."

"What does that mean?" Rainbow asked looking worried.

"It means that he will become a great warrior. One who will no doubt defend our clan just as his father before him."

Hearing this news made Wulfric swell with pride as he smiled down at his son who in return smiled back and began to squeal with delight looking at his father.

"Beorn...my brave boy."

End.

Marching Fire

After finally catching up with their allies, Marshall and Celestia found Wulfric and his people starving and wounded from their recent attack by the Kirin. Wasting no time, the princess ordered her soldiers to spare what rations they had and tend to the wounded before repairing the damaged wagons and escorting the caravan the rest of the way and through the entire journey, Celestia could see how badly the northerners had it by their ragged clothes and poor health. Even their children looked like they were on the verge of starvation.

"Thank you for coming Princess." Said Applejack gratefully while letting her daughter sleep on her lap.

"It was my pleasure Applejack. I'm just glad we were able to make it in time."

Celestia smiled at the young filly asleep on her mothers lap as well as the young buck sleeping on his mothers shoulder. It had been many moons since she last saw the children and was pleased to see how much they had grown, Apple Jewel was as beautiful as her mother and young Beorn was growing to be a fine buck much like his father yet despite the peaceful atmosphere the sun princess could not help but feel the tension coming from her friend who had been staring out the window.

"Wulfric what happened?" She finally asked, breaking the silence.

"We were attacked by Kirin. They came at us out of nowhere, I was wounded but most of my men didn't survive...I've never seen fighting styles like theirs. It's more like they were dancing."

Wulfric could recall the attack clearly as the battle replayed in his head, all around him were his warriors fighting ten Kirin soldiers who fought in a way he had not seen before; a style that seemed more like a dance than any fighting technique and each soldier was strong and swift enough to take on a dozen warriors at once, even their leader was more than a match for him as he weaved past each of his swings with little effort while bashing and cutting at his body like a practice dummy.

The only thing that saved him during that fight was a stone hidden in the snow that tripped up his foe, allowing him to gain the upper hand and subdue him. By the time the battle was over, more than half a dozen of his guards lay dead while others were severely wounded.

"I'm sure you and your people would appreciate a nice hot meal and some rest once we get to Canterlot." Celestia said with a smile to which Wulfric replied.

"Yes. We thank you for your hospitality Celestia."

After weeks of traveling, the caravan finally reached the borders of Equestria where the northerners were immediately given food and shelter by order of the princess while others quickly went about to find work in the city as well as Ponyville. Some refugees took up jobs as merchants and shopkeepers while others were hired by the city guard to help maintain order, the rest immediately signed on to join the now forming royal army for the war that was surely coming now that the northlands had been lost.

While his people were settling in, Wulfric was in an emergency council called by Celestia who seemed troubled by recent events and for a moment their was silence until the princess rose from her seat with a serious expression upon her face. Among the council members were Ember; Lord of the Dragon Lands, Queen Chrysalis of The Changeling Hives and Prince Rutherford of Yak Yakkistan

"I thank you all for coming on such short notice. As you are all aware, King Wulfric and his people were attacked by a mercenary group sent by Blueblood just shortly after fleeing their homeland."

"Pretty ballsy move. Guess the prince really does want a war." Ember interjected while propping her feet up on the table, much to Chrysali's dismay.

"Dragon Lord Ember, please show some respect? This is a council not a bar."

"Keep pushing it bug! It'll give me a reason to squash ya."

"Enough!" Celestia said in a firm tone that silenced their argument before using her magic to create a holographic map of Equestria.

"This matter is serious. With the loss of the northlands, Blueblood has gotten even bolder. Our spies have reported that he's moving his army towards the stronghold on the western border."

"How many troops are under his banner?" Wulfric inquired while focusing on the map.

"Twenty thousand strong and what's worse is that the lords who have joined him are supplying him mercenary groups from across the kingdom, some of whom are the most wanted in Equestria."

"BAH! Yaks will smash puny army!" Prince Rutherford boasted with a thump of his chest that earned him a smirk from the northern king.

"I like your spirit Rutherford but we shouldn't rush in so blindly." Celestia replied before changing the shape of the map to a specific location.

"Our only hope of halting is advance is for our troops stationed at the border to hold him off for as long as possible. The stronghold has a thousand men inside and has enough food and supplies to last them a few months."

"You really think they can hold out against an army that large?" Ember inquired feeling doubtful of her plan and rightly so for even Celestia was not sure if this would work but there was very little choice.

"One can only hope. How soon can each of you ready your armies?"

"Yaks will be ready by next full moon! We fight with pony friends and WIN!!"

Celestia nodded at Rutherfords promise of reinforcements with Chrysalis and Ember also promising to bring their armies within less time as if to compete with the yak prince.

"Celestia, If I may make a suggestion? Why not send a small elite force to harass and slow Bluebloods army? Perhaps we can even get a few of them to join our side." Said the changling queen as she opened her fan to hide a mischievous grin.

"Hm...I'll consider it. For now, council adjourned."

As the leaders left the room one by one, Wulfric spotted Sir Marshall down the hall giving orders to some of the castle guards when he called for him in a somewhat eager tone.

"Marshall. A moment?"

"Of course."

After making sure there were no ears listening in, Wulfric told his friend of the incident between his children and the bandits, to say that Marshall was shocked would be an understatement as the warden scratched his chin trying to process the story he was just told.

"So your boy did all that with his bare hands?"

"Yes and that is why I need your help."

"You're not saying I should lock him up are you?" Marshall asked feeling a bit shocked when Wulfric waved off his question.

"No! No of course not! I need you to train him. With your help, he might be able to temper that rage and maybe even control it. Our methods of training would only increase that anger and make him something far more dangerous."

"I see."

Marshall thought about his decision for only a moment and agreed to help train young Beorn despite knowing it would be difficult as many of the new recruits were from noble families in Canterlot who still saw the northerners as nothing but barbarians.

"Leave it to me old friend."

"Thank you Marshall."

The friends sealed their agreement with a firm handshake just before a scout came running through the halls completely out of breath and drenched in sweat.

"L-LORD MARSHALL! LORD MARSHALL!!" The scout shouted frantically just before falling to his knees.

"Easy man! take a breath." Said Wulfric who helped the soldier to stand before noticing the dents and bloodstains on his armor.

"Terrible news my lords! Bluebloods army has crossed the border the fortress guarding it was completely destroyed!"

Both were shocked to hear such news as the scout began to recall the siege of the fort and how he was the only one to survive.

On the western borders of Equestria

It was a typical day for the border guards as the sun rose followed by a gentle morning breeze. The scout had just returned from his patrol with his squadron and went into the mess hall for breakfast, things seemed quite peaceful as the soldiers sat at the table chatting about and enjoying their meals when out of nowhere a horn call was sounded.

"TO ARMS! TO ARMS!! ALL MEN TO THE BATTLEMENTS!!" Cried the lookout in the tower as he rang the warning bell and like clockwork, the entire fortress was up in arms. Soldiers ran to the armor, grabbing their gear in perfect succession from years of practice, archers scrambled to their posts with arrows knocked and the gates were shut as they prepared for a siege.

Out in the distance, A banner baring a gold dragon on a red field appeared as an army of Kirin and Saddle Arabians marched over the horizon and the fields of grass were soon blanketed by armored regiments and war machines.

"Celestia help us, look at them!" One of the archers said nervously as he gazed at the tens of thousands of enemies just across the field.

"Muster your courage men! Remember your duty!" The forts commander shouted while raising his sword and shouting out a mighty battle cry to inspire his troops but all could see that the odds were not in their favor.

Across the field sat Blueblood with his most trusted advisors and wife on a nearby hill overlooking the battlefield. The group were having a small feast with wine as if they were out on an afternoon picnic and that is just how the prince liked it.

"Sire. We are ready to begin the siege" Said one of the officers standing next to Blueblood who smiled with anticipation.

"You have your orders then general."

"Yes sire!"

The war horns soon sounded and the battle was underway. The attack began with the Kirin bringing forth their long range cannons to soften up the fortresses walls and as the machines were being loaded, the defenders could only look on with faces filled with fear as they had no weapons to counter with.

"DOWWWN!!" The commander shouted as the first barrage was fired.

The cannons found their marks and decimated the forts walls with minimal effort, the main tower was sent toppling down after several cannonballs tore into it and resulting collapse crushed many soldiers beneath it but the attack was far from done.

The saddle arabians charged the fort just moments after the first volley while the archers did their best to slow the attack as they began to fire arrows frantically into the oncoming horde. Ladders soon began to pop up on walls of the fort and a battering ram began pounding on the main gate, yet despite the overwhelming numbers the defenders held the enemy at bay much to the princes displeasure.

"Honestly, what is taking those men so long? Can't they handle a single fort?" Blueblood whined while taking a swig from his glass when a thought crept into his mind and a sinister grin crept onto his face.

"Tell the men to fire another barrage and this time focus it on the gate."

"But sir, our men are down there!" One of the captains shouted in protest before being splashed with wine.

"THAT'S AN ORDER!"

"....Yes sir."

The soldiers did as they were ordered and relayed the message to the kirin. The cannons were repositioned and loaded for another barrage that obliterated the gate as well as a great number of their allies yet despite the heavy loss, Blueblood grinned in delight and ordered the entire army to take the fortress.

"YES! Let it all come crashing down! Burn it to the ground!!"

What followed afterwards was a slaughter, the army gave no ground to the soldiers or those dwelling within the fort and within moments the entire structure was reduced to rubble and only one prisoner was captured; The scout who had been on patrol that same day.

The lone soldier was brought before the prince and all around him he could see the mangled corpses of his comrades and the civilians who took shelter in their stronghold.

"You...YOU MONSTER!!" He shouted furiously at the smug prince before getting struck in the stomach by one of his bodyguards.

"Now now, let's not treat our guest so harshly." Blueblood said in his usual arrogant manner as he knelt down to meet the soldier face to face.

"I want you to relay a message to my dear aunts in Canterlot."

He then whispered into the scouts ear with a malicious tone and smile that sent shivers down the soldiers spine.

"Tell them: The true ruler of Equestria is coming home."

End.

The Stranger

With news of the enemies recent victory at the border, all of Equestria was shaken as citizens from across the kingdom began reading the latest headlines in the papers

War comes to Equestria once again

Prince Blueblood marches army across border

Unnatural blizzard continues to grow in the north

With so much troubling news, many began to wonder if things were going to go back to the days of the great war and some even considered moving out of Equestria entirely in hopes of avoiding it while others wasted no time in running to the nearest guard station to sign up for the army that was surely being assembled to combat the growing threat that was Blueblood. But while most found the war to be troubling, others had found it profitable as wars meant a high increase in demand for supplies such as food and blankets as well as medicines and spells.

Soon vendors from all across the land were out on the streets competing against each other to sell their wares to the numerous soldiers now patrolling the streets along with a few mercenariy groups from the allied kingdoms.

"You there sir! You look like a fine spell caster. How's about a scroll of invisibility? Perfect for sneaking around your enemies!"

"Please step right up! I got every kind of armor you need from leather to plate!"

"Finest weapons from the Crystal Empire sold right here! We got swords, shields, spears, axes and arrows!"

With the city more busy than ever, Celestia had her hands full trying to manage the kingdom but thankfully she had help in the form of her sister as well as her former student and friends.

Twilight was in charge of organizing the numerous meetings taking place in the castle with the help of Spike who now had his claws full preparing for his child now growing within Rarity's belly, Pinkie was in charge of providing refreshments for the various emissaries and lords who would be visiting the castle and had help from Fluttershy and her animals, Rainbow Dash was in charge of entertainment now that she was back in Equestria and flying with her old squad mates from The Wonderbolts.

Rarity was in charge of decorations but it would prove to be a more daunting task than usual now that she was carrying a little one inside her and would often find herself exhausted or sick leaving Spike to pick up the slack, not that he minded since he was used to doing multiple tasks with Twilight.

"Oh heavens. I'm so sorry Spikey Wikey." She apologized while her husband sat her down in a nearby chair and gave her some ice water to drink.

"No need to apologize Rarity. You work hard every day so it's fine if you need rest and besides, you're carrying precious cargo." Spike replied with a smirk and gently placed his hand on his wife's belly to feel a small bulge beginning to form.

"I seriously hope we can end this war and our child will only read about it in stories."

"I know Spikey."

Rarity held her husbands hand and seemed to enjoy it's warmth against her as they smiled down at her belly before he was called to help organize another meeting with Twilight and though she was not able to move for the rest of the day, she always brought something to help keep her busy.

"Well since I'm here I might as well knit." She said to herself while floating over a weave basket with a few knitting supplies and began to knit a purple baby blanket with green frills decorating its edge, seeing this tiny piece of cloth made Rarity smile knowing that her husband would appreciate it more once it was used to keep their little one warm and cozy at night or during naps. By the time she had finished knitting the blanket, it was already past noon which meant spike would be coming back with her afternoon tea.

"Can't let him see this yet can we?" She said to the little one inside her while putting the blanket away.

Spike came rushing into the room with a refreshment tray assorted with Rarity's favorite snacks and tea followed by Twilight and Fluttershy who had come to see how their friend was doing.

"Hello Rarity." Fluttershy said in her usual, gentle tone with a smile.

"Fluttershy darling! so good to see you." Rarity responded with a few friendly pecks to the cheek before allowing her to examine her belly.

Ever since the end of the great war, Fluttershy had become one of Ponyvilles most talented nurses and midwife. She began by taking out a stethoscope from a medical bag she brought with her and gently placed it on her friends stomach to listen for a heartbeat.

"How is it?" Spike asked feeling a little anxious.

"Your baby is fine Spike. Would you like to listen?"

Fluttershy handed the scope to Spike as he listened to the sounds of his infants heartbeat and sure enough he began to shed tears of joy while gently hugging Rarity.

"I still can't believe it. We're gonna be parents!"

"Oh Spikey wikey."

Rarity nuzzled her husband as they sat down to have tea when she noticed Twilight looking rather depressed while reading her newest book.

"Everything okay Twilight?" Spiked asked while sitting next to Rarity and helping with her tea.

"Hm? Oh i'm fine Spike. Just thinking." She replied before turning another page in her book.

"Thinking about what?"

"Well...seeing as how you'll be having a baby soon, I guess you'll be busier than ever which means I'll be looking for a new assistant."

"Oh darling there's no need to worry, Sweetie Belle has agreed to lend a hand once the baby is born. She's been looking forward to being called "Auntie Belle" for a while now."

"But what if-"

"Darling please. Spike is more than capable of filling both roles of father and assistant. You should know that by now."

Twilight smiled after seeing how much trust Rarity had in Spike and simply enjoyed tea with her friend for the rest of the afternoon.

Meanwhile at the Crystal Empire, Shining Armour was walking through the halls of the palace to check in on Cadence and Flurry as per usual. During his trek he heard a strange noise coming from one of the rooms he passed by. With curiosity getting the better of him he cautiously approached the door and reached for the handle. Shining then opened the door with a hand on his sword as he gazed at what was inside. A mirror, taller than he, stood in the room and seemed to oddly ripple a tad making him quirk a brow. With caution still high upon his senses, Shining slowly approached the mirror as the ripples continued along the strange object.

“How in the…” Shining muttered. “Is this…magical of some kind?” He wonders as he reaches for the mirror.

Suddenly, the mirror begins to ripple more startling Shining as he steps back ready to draw his sword. As the mirror ripples more, the sounds of screaming could be heard from it as the mirror begins to shine. Beige Shining could react, a mass of unknown origin comes flying out of the mirror and out the door causing a large crash to echo throughout the halls. Shining, still in shock glances back at the mirror that seemed to stop rippling entirely.

“AAAAHH, GOD MY CHEST!” A voice from behind him shouts.

Shining snaps his head out of the room in the hallway and sees something he never would have expected. A strange bipedal creature, with a pair of large crimson red wings on its back, stood on both its hands and knees as it clutched it’s chest in pain. Upon closer inspection the creature seemed to be wearing a black hooded jacket and had the hood on its head making it impossible to see its face, a pair of dark blue pants, and black boots. Shining shook his head from his shock and brandished his sword and pointed at the strange creature.

“Who the hell are you?!” Shining demands. “How did you infiltrate the palace through that mirror?!”

The strange creature, who was breathing heavily, shakily raised its head and looked up at Shining making him gasp slightly at what he was seeing. Instead of a face, there was only a dark shadow. It’s as if Shining was starring into some unknown abyss of darkness as the strange creature gazed at him.

“Shining…Armor…?” The creature wheezed. “How…is this…possible?”

Shining stood there confused as he had never met this creature before yet somehow it recognized him and as the strange being stood up, the prince drew his sword and cautiously approached the stranger asking.

"Who are you and how do you know me?"

“I…coughI must…be dreaming…”

The creature wheezed still clutching his chest as he staggered leaning against the wall.

“You…you’re not…suppose to…be here…”

The creature looks to his side and noticed the window looking out to the rest of the empire. Ignoring Shining’s blade pointing at him, the creature staggered towards the window and looked out. There he could see the rest of the empire with its citizens walking around as if there wasn’t a worry in to care for.

“How…how is this possible?” The creature asks. “The war…everything and everyone…it doesn’t make sense.” The creature looked at Shining who still had a very confused look on his face. “And you…still alive and breathing. This all just…doesn’t make any sense.”

It wasn’t until the creature looked back out the window and noticed something from down below. A few warriors from Wulfric’s clan had stayed behind by his request and as the creature starred at him something happened that made the prince go wide eyed. The creature’s wings seemed to catch flames as small embers appeared along his body as he clenched the crystal window frame making it crack. Small cinders flickers off of the creatures body as the creature seemed to become enraged.

“What are…the fucking Caribou doing here…?” The creature asked in a dark voice.

“I thought I rid Dainn of his control over this place, yet his followers still linger?”

Shining was surprised at the mention of the slayed tyrant’s name as the flames grew more tense. Sensing the danger, the warriors quickly formed a shield wall between the stranger and the prince.

"Stay back sire!" Shouted the first stag before he was sent flying out the door by a blast of flames.

However no flames came as the stranger grunted and fell to a knee while gasping for air. The soldiers, still wary of the creature, starred as it clutched its chest and looked up at Shining again.

“Shining Armor…I don’t know what’s going on. You’re still alive, there’s Caribou waking about in the Crystal Empire, my chest feels like it’s about to explode, all because of that damn mirror. Why aren’t these Caribou attacking? Is this all just some sick illusion one of Dainn’s Overlords cast on me? I just got done liberating this place and I was just investigating with Flash,” the stranger explained shakily.

He then slowly lifted his hands as the flames on his body extinguished themselves and grabbed his hood and lifted it off his head. Everyone in the room was silent, in all the years of being a soldier, Shining had seen his fair share of creatures of the land but never had he seen whatever this stranger was. He had no muzzle, no fur, his main was slightly long but did not resemble a mane, his ears were small and on the sides of his head, and yet his eyes looked soulless they also held slight fear and confusion.

The guards were prepared to move in when Cadence came storming into the room carrying little Flurry Heart who was crying from all the ruckus.

"Shining what's going on?"

"Cadence stay back." Shining warned while shielding her with his magic.

Wha…?” The stranger muttered looking to his side.

“Even Cadence and Flurry…” he said staggering to his feet.

“Damn you Dainn, what the hell did you do to that mirror?” He said to himself.

“Is this some illusion you’ve somehow trapped me in to try and stop me from ending your tyrannical rule?” He grunted clenching his fists.

Once again Shining heard the name of the fallen dictator as the stranger looked at his hands. Unable to contain his curiosity, Shining slowly approached him with his sword still raised to try and handle the situation more calmly.

"I don't know who you are but Dainn Stonehoof has been dead for ten years."

“Dead?” The stranger repeated in slight shock.

“No…that can’t be right. Unless…” The stranger glanced past Shining and into the room he came out of and saw the mirror. His expression softened a bit and then chuckled rubbing his hand on his face.

“Of course, why didn’t I realize it sooner,” he said as he straightened himself up. “

Sir Shining Armor, I understand you have many questions and as do I. But I am willing to answer any questions you have and I swear to answer them as honestly as I possibly can. And as a show of good faith,” He said as he held up his hands.

“I surrender to any any restraints you wish to put me in if that makes you feel secure. Know that I mean you, your family, the citizens, and even…” he paused glancing at the Caribou soldiers around him.

“Your other allies no harm whatsoever. I trust you to use your better judgement on what to do next,” The stranger said with a bow of his head.

“And to answer your first question,” he said glancing up at Shining.

“My name is Dimitri Lockdrom, I am a human.”

Shining stood shocked for a moment as he had heard of humans before but never thought he'd see one up close.

"Men. Take him to the stockades and get that soldier some treatment."

The guards did as they were ordered and proceeded to take Lock to the stockades while he got a better look at the crystal palace. All around him were equestrians and caribou working side by side as equals yet what surprised him even more were the number of female soldiers in the guard.

“It’s hard to believe what I’m seeing,” Dimitri said.

“It’s nothing like this where I am from, far from it.” He glanced at Shining who was still wary of him and he sighed glancing away.

“I apologize for your man back there, seeing him sparked my temper but he shouldn’t be as hurt as you may think. He’ll be singed a bit but nothing life threatening. I would also like to apologize for startling your wife and scaring your daughter, it wasn’t my intention despite the circumstances.”

"It's fine as long as you meant no harm."

As the group turned around the next corridor they spotted a female caribou guard flirting with one of the staff.

"Mmm you're cute. Wanna join me for lunch~?" She asked flirtaciously while leaning forward to give the stallion a clear view down her breastplate. Shining glanced over at Dimitri to see if how he would react but what he didn’t expect was him smiling as they passed by the blushing young stallion and Caribou gaurd.

“Young love, makes me wonder why things aren’t like that back home,” he said sadly. “Makes me wonder if it’ll even be like that if I get home and finish what I started.”

The moment they arrived at his cell, a barrier was activated and his shackles were removed.

"This barrier blocks out all magic. Compliments of the changelings." One of the guards said as he stepped into his new quarters.

“Changelings, huh?” Dimitri said examining the barrier.

“Impressive, but I should tell you I don’t use magic but I will comply since I don’t wish to cause trouble.”

"I hope not." Shining replied when he spotted the guard from earlier carrying the young stallion on her shoulder.

"Captain? I'm going on break!"

The guards couldn't help but snicker as she carried her partner off while he gulped nervously.

"Just don't take too long!" Shining shouted as they went out of view.

“That kid seems to be in more trouble than he realizes,” Dimitri chuckled.

“Now then, you probably have more questions than I do so why don’t you start.” Dimitri said as he unfurled one of his wings to check for any damaged feathers.

"Alright. Who are you and how do you know me?" Shining inquired eyes locked firmly on Dimitri.

“Well you already know my name, Dimitri Lockdrom but you may call me Lock,” Dimitri said looking back at Shining.

“As for how I know you…” he trailed off looking a little sad for a moment.

“It’s a bit of a long story but to start it off it has to do with that mirror I came flying out of. You see it leads to an alternate Equestria, my Equestria that I am originally from and I knew you through your counterpart. In fact there are counterparts of many different ponies I know besides you and even your family, your younger sister Twilight and her friends, the two Princesses of Equestria Celestia and Luna, and many other beings,” Dimitri explains.

"So how did you get here?" The prince asked as he continued his tale.

“I was investigating the palace with my apprentice Flash Sentry after we had just got done liberating the Crystal Empire from the Caribou,” Lock answers confusing Shining and the guards in the room.

“We stumbled upon the mirror in one of the main rooms, similar to the one your mirror is in, and when I examined it I was pulled into the mirror and wound up here with chest feeling it was about to burst,” he explains.

“This may be hard to accept but…” Lock trailed off not knowing how Shining wound react.

“Dainn Stonehoof still lives in my Equestria,” Lock said making Shining’s eyes go wide.

“He and the rest of his Overlords still hold most of my Equestria under his control. The Griffon, Minotaur, Yak, Diamond Dog, and Zebra Kingdoms, are all still under his rule despite there being resistance fighters thanks to me repairing the Crystal Heart and breaking his brainwashing. Flash Sentry and I now have the kingdom of Equestria, along with the help of the Changeling Hive, protected and rallying against Dainn and his army. When you told me Dainn had been dead for 10 years I realized that the mirror not only brought me to an alternate Equestria but apparently forward in time,” Lock said earning looks of disbelief to any who had overheard him.

"I see so...why were you surprised to see me?" Shining asked before noticing Cadence walk in with their daughter.

“You…sigh before I started my campaign against Dainn, I heard your counterpart had done a great many things before Dainn’s influence spread like wildfire. You personally led the evacuation of Ponyville and saved Twilight, her friends, and almost all the townsfolk. When everyone was safe behind the walls of Canterlot, you casted your strongest shield spell around the entire city so that at least it would still be left standing. For over three months you kept the spell active, barely eating and sleeping, and sometimes strained yourself despite the others sharing their magic with you. However the Caribou and traitor stallions were relentless in their assaults on Canterlot. Attack after attack, they bombarded your shield with their weapons stockades but you kept the shield up regardless of what they threw at you,” Lock said with a proud smile but soon frowned sadly.

“But nothing good lasts forever, the last assault on Canterlot would’ve quite literally been the last because of how much magical strain you put yourself through. Before I arrived to Canterlot and drove back the stockade, you went as far as to use your own life force to power your shield in a desperate attempt to save your family, the Elements, and the Princesses escape while you stayed behind,” Lock continued to explain not realizing Cadence was listening in.

“After I drove the enemy back and put up my own barrier around the city, your shield finally collapsed so at the time I figured you used the last of your magic and needed time to rest. However the next day when I decided to introduce myself, I was met with an unfortunate sight. You, in the emergency ward, no horn, and in critical condition with your loved ones standing by you,” Lock said earning small gasps around the room.

“According to the doctor your horn crumbled away due to magic overuse and you were barely clinging to life. I had a brief conversation with you before you had me swear to you that I would fight and bring back Equestria’s happiness so that your daughter Flurry could smile again as she once did,” Lock said leaning in to stare into Shining’s eyes with a solemn expression.

“You died…with a smile on your face…after I made my oath to you…and before you heard your daughters first word…dada, was the last thing you heard before you took your final breath.”

The room went quiet as Shining tried to absorb the information given to him when little Flurry flew onto his lap with a smile and laugh that seemed to instantly snap him out of his trance.

"By any chance....did you meet a chieftain named Wulfric in your world?"

“Unfortunately no,” Lock said standing up and walking to the other side of the room.

“So far I have not seen, heard of, or met any Caribou who resemble anything like this Wulfric you speak of. If I’m being honest the only Caribou I’ve met and…well killed have been loyal followers to Dainn’s regime who take what they please and defile any mare they see. But I’m a man who believes in the greater good of things so perhaps there are Caribou who do not believe in Dainn’s conquest and ideals. However that remains to be seen,” he said walking back to Shining.

“I assume this Wulfric is an ally of yours?” Lock wonders.

"More than that. He was crowned King in The North by the clans after defeating Dainn in single combat, he also lead the rebellion that helped us gain a foothold in the war." Shining replied before giving a more stunning answer.

"He's also the husband of Applejack and Rainbow Dash."

“Is that right?” Lock chuckled a bit surprised. “Well good on them finding a male fit to handle the two of them,” he joked causing a few chuckles here and there. “There’s probably a lot here I do not know of, perhaps you can-”

Lock cuts himself off when his senses spike causing him to snap to attention.

“What is this? Conflict? To the west it seems…” he said. “I thought you said the war was over, why do I sense so much violence as if this world is still at war?” Lock questions.

"That would be Blueblood." Cadence answered while taking back flurry.

“Blueblood…?” Lock sneered. Lock’s expression went from cautious to a blood chilling glare at the mention of the traitor prince’s name. His hands clenched into fists as he activated his flames casing the same affect from before making embers light along his body as his wings twitched and unfurled to its full 8ft width. The feathers along his crimson read wings all seemed to flicker small cinders of fire as Lock’s hands engulfed themselves in flames as his anger continue to grow.

“What has that fucking piece of rat shit done in this world? I thought I was rid of his unbearable existence when I tore his still beating heart from his corpse after he betrayed Equestria and tortured innocent souls to his hearts content. Now I find myself in another world still plagued by a bastard like him?” Lock growled as he paced around the room leaving burning footprints him his wake.

"Stop!" Cadence commanded in a regal manner while holding her daughter.

"You're scaring Flurry Heart!"

Lock looked over to Flurry to see she was on the verge of tears and clinging to her mother. Lock shook his head and took deep breaths to calm himself down and deactivated his flames while clutching his chest and leaned his head against the wall.

“I…I am sorry,” Lock said quietly.

“It’s just the Blueblood in my Equestria had done terrible things to the ponies of Equestria, on top of betraying his kingdom. Things I do not wish to repeat aloud, I did not mean to frighten your daughter…” Lock said sadly as he furled his wings back.

Flurry finally calmed down thanks to her mothers embrace before Shining ordered his men to open the cell.

"I'll need to speak with the council on this matter."

“If it’s any consolation,” Lock said not looking at Shining as he looked back at him.

“I still hold my oath to your late counterpart to heart. Even though I am in another Equestria at the moment I still fight for the sake of peace, despite how others may see the true me as you have just witnessed.”

Shining nodded as he left with his family but couldn't help but feel concerned about the fate of his counterpart and wondered what might happen to Cadence and Flurry if he were to die in this war as he made his way towards the council chamber and contacted hus allies through a communication crystal. Princess Celestia and Luna were first to appear followed by Twilight and finally Wulfric.

"Shining old friend! It's good to see you." The northern king said cheerfully.

"Good to see you to Wulfric but I'm afraid this call is for business."

"I see. What troubles you captain?" Asked Luna.

"I have..." The prince paused for a moment before giving his answer.

"There is a human here in the palace who claims to be from an alternate reality."

This news caught the council by surprise as the prince gave more details of his encounter, at first it seemed far fetched but after Twilights adventure to the human world it didn't seem impossible.

"Hmm...I wish to see this human. Bring him before us." Commanded Celestia as Shining bowed and ordered two of his guards to bring Lock before them.

About 15 minutes later as the council waited for Lock’s arrival, they all heard the doors open to see Lock walking through. Only to everyone’s surprise, he walked with his jacket and shirt slung over his shoulder wearing only a tank top that pressed against his muscular torso and exposed his large tribal marked arms.

“You know Sir Shining, I know a meeting with the council is important and all, but could you at least give a guy a bit more of a warning before you send guards to pick me up?” Lock sighs.

“I was in the middle of my exercise when they came to get me and I was just starting to work up a sweat,” he said wiping his forehead. As he walked in Lock instinctively unfurled his large crimson red wings and stretched them out wide along with his arms as he cracked his neck, as he was doing so, any maids or female guards in the room couldn’t help but blush madly at the full 8ft of his wings and some even gave bedroom eyes to the way they saw Lock’s muscles flexed and bulged along his torso and arms. Lock opened his eyes to see Shining and, to his surprise, the three Princesses and The King of The North himself.

“Oh, I see they’re already here,” Lock said nonchalantly as he walked over to Celestia, Luna, and Twilight.

“It’s nice to meet you, your majesty’s,” he greeted with a polite bow of his head.

“I am Dimitri Lockdrom, the human visitor you have heard about.”

"Odd I figured you'd be...older." Said Wulfric as he scratched his chin and asked a very odd question.

"I've heard legends of your kind. Is it true you hunted my ancestors for food and kept their heads as trophies?"

Lock looked over at Wulfric and sighed as he walked over to him and rubbed the back of his head.

“I won’t lie to you your majesty, in my home world where I am originally from we did indeed hunt Caribou for either sport or food and some still do. I personally never partook in it because I always found it cruel. I know that doesn’t justify anything but I would like to apologize anyway,” Lock said with a bow of his head to the Northern King.

"You May choose to hold it against me if you wish, I won’t blame you.”

"Hm. Honest and humble...I like him."

Twilight was next to ask her question as Wulfric sat back down with a smirk.

"Is it true...my brother didn't survive in your world?"

“It’s true,” Lock said with a sad sigh.

“The Shining Armor in my world is no longer with us, I apologize.” He then walked over to Twilight and kneeled in front of her.

“But you should know he went out like a hero, protected his family and loved ones to the very end. That’s why I fight not only for the sake of my Equestria but in Shining Armor’s name so I may keep my oath to him.”

Lock said with a comforting smile.

“Besides, I think King Wulfric and I can agree that this world’s Shining Armor is as tough as nails, next to his wife of course,” Lock joked glancing at Wulfric. The king in the north could not help but burst into laughter while Shining cleared his throat while trying to hide the blush on his cheeks.

Lock chuckled as he looked down and noticed he was still in only his tank top as he looked around the room and saw the maids and female gaurds were still blushing as they continued to gaze at his muscular body and large wings.

“Oops, we all got so caught up in our introductions I forgot to put my clothing back on,” Lock said as he stood up to put on his shirt and jacket.

“We’re not complaining, stud muffin~!” A doe guard calls out from the doorway.

“Are they always like this?” He asks Wulfric.

"Just be careful when they invite you to lunch." The king warned when the stallion from earlier came swaying into the room covered in lipstick and carrying a refreshment tray.

"Drinks gentlemen?"

"Perhaps we should discuss more in person and when you are better dressed." Luna suggested after noticing the doe from earlier waving to the servant.

“I Apologize, your highness,” Lock said after putting his jacket back on.

"The clothes you see me wearing are the only ones I came here with. Now then, I assume you all have questions like Sir Shining so I will answer them to the best of my ability. Would you care to start us off, King Wulfric?” Lock offers.

"I'm with Princess Luna. We'll discuss more face to face." Wulfric replied with a smirk now that his interest was piqued.

“I suppose you have a point,” Lock agrees as he puts his jacket back on.

“Does this mean I have to go back to my cell?” He asks glancing over to Shining.

"No." Shining said with a smile.

"As of now, you are my guest."

End.

Author's Notes:

A big thank you to WurkyWilk358 0W0 for making this chapter possible!!

A Wild Night Part 1

It was late in the afternoon as the ponies were going about there duties despite the looming threat of war that filled the air. At the ports, an airship docks from the Crystal Empire and ponies board or disembark from the large vehicle, along with an unknown and never before seen creature with large crimson red wings. After spending a few days getting to know his new surroundings and spending a little time with Shining, Lock was given permission by Cadence to arrive in Canterlot to meet with the other council members in person as promised. Lock looked around the ports as he watched ponies and even some caribou walk around with each other, some glancing at Lock as he took in all his surroundings.

Lock began his trek to the castle ignoring any stares he received as he pulled out a couple strange devices from his pocket. To any who saw what was in his hands they looked like a small thin brick that he tapped a few times and little white earrings that he put in her ears. After he tapped the strange brick a few times he tucked it in his pocket and continued his walk while bobbing his head slightly. After about 10 more minutes of walking and ignoring any other stares he received, Lock finally made it to the gates where a stallion and stag guard were standing at attention. He sighed as he pulled the strange white earrings from his ears and put them in his pocket as he reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a scroll with the Crystal Empire’s insignia in the ribbon.

“Good evening gentlemen,” Lock said politely gaining the guards attention.

"I am Dimitri Lockdrom, the human visitor and I have an appointment with your rulers. I have with me a scroll written by both Princess Cadence and Captain/Prince Shining Armor to prove my business here,” He said handing the stallion guard the scroll.

The guards saw the official royal seal of Canterlot before unrolling it to read its contents. Both nodded after confirming its authenticity and proceeded to open the doors.

"The council room is just past the main hall. Take the door on the right and head straight down." The first guard instructed as Lock made his way in. What he found completely stunned him.

In the main hall of the castle were stained glass portraits of the great war, each depicting the most epic battles but one in particular caught Locks eye. That of Dainn Stonehoof laying in a pool of his own blood with his head cleaved off his shoulders and standing above him was a young stag wielding a mighty claymore roaring in triumph.

“Well color me very impressed, guy certainly deserves credit where credit is due,” Lock said to himself.

A few minutes of walking later and following the guards directions, Lock came up to a set of doors which meant he had arrived at his destination. Before he walked in he couldn’t help but feel a tad nervous since he would be meeting the rulers of this kingdom along with the king slayer himself in person.

“Come on Lock, they’re just like the ones in your reality plus a new face. Besides you already showed them you already mean no harm, right?” He said to himself.

Lock then reached out and slowly opened the doors and was met by a large table. At the table were the three Princesses, The King of the North, and beside Celestia and Luna were a couple of young ponies a little younger than he who starred at Lock curiously. The pegasus colt gazed at Locks large crimson red wings in awe as he walked in and he saw the unicorn filly stare at Lock with interest and Lock could swear he saw an ever so faint blush from her but he brushed it off as his imagination. As Lock made his way closer to the royals he cleared his throat as he stopped in front of them and bowed his head politely.

“Hello, your majesties, it is good to meet you all in person. Since we are officially meeting each other I would like to introduce myself again, I am Dimitri Lockdrom, the human visitor in your world,” Lock greeted them.

“However, if you wish, you call me Lock for short.”

As Lock stood up straight again, the two younger ponies walked up to Lock as they starred at him with the same curious looks. Lock smiled as he offered a hand to the young prince and princess. “Hello,” he greeted in a warm tone. “What are your names?”

"Oh yes. These are our children." Celestia replied.

"My son Imperius."

"And my daughter, Selene." Luna said with a smile.

“Imperius, a strong name for a strong colt like yourself,” Lock said as he shook his hand.

“I take it you admire my wings?” Lock asks as the young prince nods. Lock smirks as he steps back a bit and crosses his arms and gives his wings a sharp flap and spreads them wide leaving the prince slack jawed at the full 8ft of his wings.

“Well what do you think of them now, kid?” Lock asks.

"Cool!" The young colt said in awe making his mother giggle.

"I'm sorry our husband is not here. The duties of the lord regeant never cease."

The moment Luna said those words, Lock became curious and asked a somewhat delicate question.

“I see the two of you share a husband, if you don’t mind me asking but what does your husband do as the Lord Regent?” Lock asks as he furled his wings and Imperius walked around him to continue starring at his wings with his sister.

"Oh maintain law and order, see to the daily affairs, organize the army and if there's time, tuck in his children."

The sun monarch proceeded to squeeze her son into her well endowed chest much to the young princes displeasure.

"MOOM!!"

Lock chuckled a the affection he young prince was receiving then looked to his side to see Selene still starring up at him. Lock smiled as he kneeled down to his knee in front of the young princess.

“So your name is Selene?” Lock asked and she nods with a faint blush.

“A pretty name for a pretty girl like yourself, if you wouldn’t mind I’d like to give you something,”

Lock said as he unfurled one of his wings slightly and plucked out a crimson red feather.

“Here, a token of friendship from me to you,” he said offering Selene the feather.

"Thank you." The young princess replied timidly.

"Well well Sir Lock. It seems you have a fan." Luna smirked before Wulfric rose from his chair.

"Now that the introductions are done, perhaps you can fill us in as to why you are here."

“Right,” Lock said as Selene retreated back to her mother with a bright blush.

“I’m sure you all were filled in on how I arrived here and a little of what’s happened from Shining Armor, yes?” Lock asks and they all nod. He pauses for a moment as he glanced at Wulfric and sighs as he takes a seat.

“Well I should first tell you all the state of my Equestria,” he pauses again.

“Dainn Stonehoof still lives in my Equestria and has taken control of most of the entire planet with the aid of his Overlords. I and my apprentice Flash Sentry have been basically waging a one man war against him and his entire forces for the past 6 months.”

"Just you two? What about your worlds Celestia?" Asked Twilight looking a bit shocked.

“My worlds Celestia, Luna, Cadence, and Twilight and the rest of the Elements were saved by my worlds Shining Armor before…” Lock trailed off.

“Before he gave his life protecting Canterlot. I used my power to create a barrier around the entire city, along with the other major cities of Equestria we liberated, so that the caribou and traitor stallion forces couldn’t take them back. I had even just recently defeated one of Dainn’s Overlords and liberated the Crystal Empire and repaired the Crystal Heart, thus breaking any brainwashing over those under Dainn’s foul magic,” Lock explains.

“I was originally was supposed to take on this campaign alone but Flash came to me begging me to take him under my wing and I agreed and gave him an ability similar to mine.” Lock said.

“You all might be wondering what this power of mine is,” Lock said as he raised his hand.

“It is not magic as you may think, rather my power comes from something more dark than you might expect.” Lock then took off his jacket and rolled up his shirts sleeve to show the tribal markings that ran along his arm and up his shoulder.

“Before you ask, no, this isn’t a cutie mark. These are brands, they signify my title in my world,” Lock explains as his arm ignites small embers along his arm and soon spread along his body and wings as he remains unfazed by the small embers running along his body.

“My power was bestowed upon me by the ruler of a Hell, the Devil himself, and gave me the title befitting one who fights against those who cheat him of their souls like Dainn did,” Lock said as the small embers continued to flicker along his body and wings.

“I became a necessary evil to combat the darkness, I am The Devil’s Hand.”

The room was filled with silence for a moment when Wulfric pulled out the dagger strapped to his belt.

"Wulfric!" Celestia protested while shielding her son.

"Give me one good reason why I shouldn't gut you now." The king hissed while gripping the dagger tightly.

Lock starred at Wulfric as he gripped his dagger as if he was ready to attack Lock at any moment. Lock simply rolled his sleeve down and stood up slowly as Wulfric tensed up.

“If that’s what you feel you must do, since you now see me as nothing but a monster who would destroy everything in sight…” Lock said as he raised his arms out open.

“Then do it, strike me down right here and now like you did Dainn and be recognized as a hero who vanquished another evil being, The Devil’s Hand no less, Just know this Wulfric.” Lock said as he extinguished his flames and dropped his gaurd more by pressing his wings agains his back.

“I am not your enemy, if I was then we would be in a very diffident situation right now.”

Wulfric smirked before sheathing his weapon and letting out a short laugh as he said.

"Oh now I REALLY like him!"

Lock received a rather hard slap to the back that knocked the wind out of him as the princesses laughed themselves.

"Perhaps we can give you a tour of the grounds? We might run into our husband, if we're lucky."

“Wait…that was a test?” Lock asked a bit shocked.

“Ugh I should’ve known, you don’t even seem like the vengeful type,” he groaned facepalming himself.

"Oh no I had every intention of killing you if you were the enemy." Wulfric replied before Celestia and Luna nonchalantly whacked him in the back of the head.

"OWW!!"

"Wulfric. for your sake, just stop talking." Said Celestia scolding him like a child.

“Jee thanks,” Lock said sarcastically as he put on his jacket.

As the royals lead Lock out of the room he glanced over his shoulder to see Selene stare at him with a worried expression. Lock simply smiled and winked at her before turning his head making her eyes widen and cheeks tint red as she twiddled her thumbs and smiled a little.

“So Wulfric,” Lock said gaining the king of the North’s attention.

“The portraits I saw on the way over to the council room tell quite the story, but I was wondering if you could give me a little more detail how you vanquished Dainn and became King?” Lock wonders.

They paused in front of the window depicting Dainns defeat.

"Hmm...it was ten years ago." The king said with nostalgia in his voice.

In his mind Wulfric flashed back to the final battle of the great war. The castle hall was filled with soldiers fighting to the death, traitor nobles and stonehoof loyalists ran for their lives as they were chased through the streets by their former slaves and in a more secluded part of the castle stood Dainn and Wulfric fighting to the death with the future of Equestria hanging in the balance.

“Seems like Dainn put this world through just as much hell as it’s said, huh?” Lock said placing a hand on his shoulder.

“You definitely deserved the victory for all you’ve done, I wish I could say the same for my days as a soldier back in my homeworld…” Lock said sadly.

"Hmm while I love spinning a good yarn perhaps a memory spell might help." Wulfric turned to Twilight who nodded in agreement as her horn began to glow and a bright flash filled the room. For a moment, there was nothing but silence and a blinding light, then Lock began to hear the sound of warcries and clashing steel and as he regained hus vision he found himself in the middle of a battle.

All around him were soldiers of every race fighting fiercely against stonehoof warriors as they stormed the castle while traitor nobles ran for their lives with mobs of enraged freed slaves giving chase.

"She put up a fight you know..."

Locks body froze up after hearing the voice of Dainn once more and turned to see the former tyrant standing in the middle of a room with a young Wulfric as they prepared to duel.

"Your little farm whore...I'll never forget how she managed to fend me off before I finally plowed her!"

"Shut up..." Wulfric hissed as his anger began to rise.

"And that blue pegasus...her flank was so fine that I pounded that first until she begged me to put it in her cunt like the slut she is!!"

"I SAID SHUT UUUUP!!!"

In that moment, Lock did not see a warrior nor a king but a beast of primal fury lashing out at Dainn as he rained blow after blow with his claymore.

As Dainn was at the mercy of Wulfric, he himself couldn’t help but activate his power due to the intensity of the battle. Although instead of flames, to everyone’s surprise especially the present Wulfric’s, Lock’s body and wings began to crackle as bolts of electricity danced and surged all over Lock as he gazed at the fearsome fight. The bolts of lightning seem to have effected his wings as the feathers glowed a crimson red shine. When the memory showed past Wulfric roar with furry and slice Dainn’s head off, Lock smiled with dark joy as the head of Tyrant King was held up for all to see.

He then glanced to the others around him and noticed that they were all starring at him in either shock or awe. Once the memory ended he looked down and noticed the bolts of lightning surging all over his body and wings making him chuckle as he calmed himself down along with his electric power.

“Sorry about that, it’s just that fight was very intense and quite the awesome spectacle if I’m being honest,” Lock said as he glanced at Wulfirc who was still in shock seeing the lightning that covered his body.

“You sure now how to bring the house down with your swordplay and brute strength, I don’t think I’ve been this pumped up since my fight with the Overlord from my world.”

"Dainn wasn't exactly slayed in that manner. More execution style." The king said humbly while scratching his chin.

As the image faded, the group found themselves back in the present timeline after Twilight deactivated the spell.

"Stories tend to have embelleshments." She said in reply.

“Still a pretty cool fight,” Lock shrugged.

“Were it so easy to vanquish the Dainn in my world if it weren’t for his Overlords.” Lock glanced over to Imperius and Selene who were gazing at Lock after his electric spectacle. While Imperius was grinning like he was in the presence of a super hero, Selene seemed to be in a bit of a trance while she adorned a faint blush as she starred at him. Lock even noticed she was holding the feather he gave her with both hands and pressed it close to her chest making him arch a brow.

“Something the matter, miss Selene?” Lock asked snapping her out of her trance.

Selene’s blush seemed to brighten a bit as she shyly looked away while still holding on to the feather which made Imperius smirk and cross his arms.

“Somepony’s got a crush~” he teased making Selene gasp and snap her head towards her brother with a glare and an even brighter blush.

"Now sweetie no teasing." Said Celestia as she wagged her finger at him when one of the servants came up to announce that lunch was prepared.

"Oh good. I am famished." Said Luna as they moved to the dining area.

“You all go on ahead, I’d like to get some personal training done before I join you. Where are the training grounds?” Lock asked when he heard the sound of a whistle and a drill instructors voice.

"MOVE IT YA SLUGS!!"

"That would be our husband. Come along children."

Celestia and the others then leave Lock, with Selene glancing back at him once more before continuing to follow the group making him chuckle and walk towards where he heard the loud voice. After a few minutes of walking he found himself outside in a wide area filled with soldiers in rows looking quite exhausted. In front of them was a stallion glaring at them with a whistle in his mouth and he blew it as loud as he could making the soldiers wince.

"Now that we've warmed up, who wants to spar?"

The instructor was dressed in a standard captains uniform decorated with medals and strapped to his side was a sword black as the night sky, he was an earth pony

"Come on boys! Who's itching for a fight?"

“How’s a bout me, Lord regent?” Lock called out making everyone turn to him as he approached making the whole squad turn to see the strange creature who answered the captain when one of the guards began to scold him.

"You! Show some respect to Sir Marshall!"

Lock smirked as he spread his wings and with a single flap he shot into the air with a front flip over the gaurd and landed right in front of Marchall, startling him.

“Apologies for the blunt tone, Sir Marshall, your wives told me I’d find you here after my meeting with them and King Wulfric. My name is Dimitri Lockdrom, the human visitor from an alternate Equestria,” Lock greets with a kind tone and his hand held out for a shake.

"Marshall. Lord Regent of Canterlot." The captain replied with a firm handshake.

"Forgive me for not being at the council. Duty calls."

“Nah it’s fine,” Lock waves it off.

“Someone’s gotta beat these greenhorns into proper soldiers for the good of the kingdom, glad it’s someone who knows a thing or two about what it’s like to fight in a war.” Lock leans in slightly with a smirk.

“Especially when you married to both Princesses,” he jokes.

“So you mentioned you wished to spar with someone,” Lock said as he stepped away taking off his jacket and draping it on a nearby bench.

“I might be able to take you up on that,” he said as he took off his shirt revealing his large tribal marked arms and placing it over his jacket.

“What’s say you and me show the fresh meat how to truly fight on the battlefield?” Lock challenges as he takes off his tank top showing off his muscular torso and tossing it with the other clothing. As he was stretching his limbs, any female guard or recruit starred at Lock’s exposed abdominals, pectorals, and biceps as they flexed along with his stretching which made them blush madly while the males gazed at the many battle scars and tribal marks in his arms in awe. Unbeknownst to Lock, some mare soldiers fidgeted in place giving Lock bedroom eyes as they bit their lips as he walked over to one side of the field and whispered to each other.

“Sweet Celestia, look at him~”

“I know, that stallion sure knows how to take care of himself.”

“Those wings…just imagine what it might feel like being wrapped in them.”

“You know what they say about a stallion and the size of his wings, right?”

“If he keeps showing off those amazing muscles of his, I might just ask for a personal training session.”

Meanwhile the male guards also shared their whispers to each other.

“Holy stars, those muscles of his are huge!”

“Forget his muscles, check out those scars!”

“Just what the hay was he fighting, a pack of Ursa Majors?”

“Jeez, and those wings of his look like they could do a number on you.”

“Is he really gonna spar with Sir Marshall?”

“I bet you 20 bits that human won’t last a minute against Sir Marshall.”

“What you’re crazy…I bet you 40 bits that human lasts over a minute and manages to beat Sir Marshall!”

“Hey can I get in on this? My bits are on Sir Marshall.”

“Can I put mine down on the human?”

"Now let's see." Marshall said in a hushed voice while scanning the recruits.

"Beorn! Front and center!!"

The recruits began to applaud a little as a young stag stepped out of the ranks.

"Lock, meet your sparring partner."

To say the human was not impressed would be an understatement since he was hoping for someone a bit older and experienced.

“Hmm…not saying I expected to fight a more, well, experienced fighter but are you sure Sir Marshall?” Lock asks with an arched brow.

"Don't underestimate him. He's one of my best recruits."

Upon closer inspection of the young stag Lock noticed some key features about him, more noticeably his eyes and face which made him smirk and cross his arms.

“Well I guess I can see why you chose this one, if I were a betting man I’d say he’s the son of Wulfric and Rainbow Dash,” He said looking impressed.

"Right you are. Beorn try to take it easy on him."

"Yes sir."

The combatants were given their weapons as the recruits made space for the match. Marshall stepped between them to announce the rules.

"To win you must either disarm your opponent, land a killing blow or force your opponent to surrender. No magic allowed, use of wings is permitted at the participants risk."

“Sounds easy enough,” Lock said giving his wooden sword a few professional swings. “If you don’t mind, I’d like to set the mood,” he said confusing everyone. Lock then pulled out a strange brick from his pocket and tapped it a few times, then tapped it once more and music started to play.

Everyone was a bit surprised how the small object Lock placed in his pocket was playing music but then Lock got into a stance and gestured Beorn to come at him with his hand while smirking in a taunting manner.

“Let’s see what the son of the great King of The North is made of,” he said mockingly.

"BEGIN!!"

"WAAAAGGH!!!"

In a surprise twist, Beorn sprang forward like a cannonball and slammed shoulder first into Locks torso.

“OOF!” Lock grunted as he was sent skidding backwards and quickly steadied himself but wasn’t given time to recover as Beorn charged at him once again. The human raised his wooden sword to block his attack and started to step backwards due to the young warriors relentless barrage and was stuck on the defensive.

Lock soon realized his mistake for underestimating the young stags skill since he couldn’t find a big enough opening due to the speed and power behind each swing of Beorn’s sword, thanks to Marshall’s teachings no doubt. As Beorn went for a side strike, Lock seized this opportunity to duck down and swipe Beorn’s leg with his wing knocking him to his knee as he somersaulted over him and took his stance again.

“And here I thought I was gonna try to take it easy on this kid,” Lock smirked to himself as Beorn quickly got up and charged him again.

“Time to get serious.”

Lock also charged at Beorn and met his attack headon causing a loud clang to fill the air. Soon both warriors were in a striking match with on another matching blow for blow, block for block, sometimes landing strikes, punches, and kicks here and there creating bruises or gashes, and they then charged at each other again making their swords meet as they both starred into each other’s eyes. Both warriors were panting heavily as everyone could see the many bruises and scratches Beorn gave Lock all over his exposed torso along with the torn and damaged pieces of armor that Lock inflicted on Beorn. the two came to blows again as the music form Lock’s pocket seemed to reach the chorus and their feet dug deep within the dirt as they tried to overpower one another.

“Gotta give credit where credit is due, kid!” Lock said impressed.

“You certainly have your old man’s fighting spirit!”

Beorn growled as he tried to push his opponent back when without warning, Lock fanned open his wings creating a dust cloud that blinded the young stag.

"*COUGH!* Agh! My eyes!!" Beorn swung wildly around him in an attempt to keep Lock at bay but was soon on the receiving end of hit and run attacks from all sides.

“Can’t be swinging like a wild stag, kid!” Lock said as he cartwheeled behind Beorn and kicking his back forcing him to his knees.

“Calm your mind and focus your senses, don’t rely on your sight for it will be taken from you on the field of battle and the enemy will deliver the killing blow.” Lock then flipped over Beorn and landed in front of him making it easy for the northern prince to pinpoint his location and attack despite still being blinded by the dust. Lock effortlessly dodged his uncoordinated attacks and raised his fist to punch Beorn across his muzzle sending him staggering back and panting even more heavily.

“I know you got more fight in you, son of Wulfric, so show me what you’re really made of!” Lock beckons the young buck.

The spectators around the two combatants watched their spar in awe and admiration as they also listened to the interestingly intense music that some enjoyed.

“Damn look at them go! I don’t think I’ve seen Prince Beorn so evenly matched!”

“You sure about that? Cause that Lock guy seems to have the upper hand.”

“I’m sure Prince Beorn will pull through, he’s the son of King Wulfric after all.”

“All I care about is losing those bits I wagered, I hope I win otherwise I won’t be eating supper…”

Unaware to the rest of the crowd, Beorn was not just fighting the exhaustion now ravaging his body but the rising tide of rage building within and after Lock struck him again.

"AAAAAARRGH!!!"

Bloodlust claimed him. Anything that moved, he killed.

The hell? Lock thought before being tackled to the ground and looked up at Beorn, what he saw were eyes not of a fierce warrior but wild, blood crazed beast. Beorn then raised his weapon and began to bring it down repeatedly trying to bash Lock’s head in but Lock managed to bring his sword up and block his strikes. However, due to the sheer force behind each attack that seemed to get more violent and stronger, Lock’s weapon started to crack and would soon snap in two leaving him exposed. He tried to use his wings to escape but Beorn had pinned them down with his legs and continued striking Lock in an enraged fury.

Shit, if this keeps up I’m in trouble. Just what is with this kid?” Lock thought as Beorn rose his wooden sword up high and brought it down snapping Lock’s wooden I two.

Oh screw this.

Before Beorn brought his sword down once more for the finishing blow, Lock poured most of his strength in his wings and forced them from under Beorn’s legs while ripping a few feathers off each wing in the process making him wince. With a mighty flap of his freed wings, Lock blew Beorn off of him and sprang to his feet while keeping a safe distance from the now crazed Beorn. Beorn was giving Lock such a harsh glare he could feel a few hairs stand up on the back of his neck, Lock cautiously started to circle Beorn as he did the same still panting heavily like a wild beast and gripping his sword tightly.

“Easy there kid, look no more practice sword,” Lock said raising his hands.

“You successfully disarmed me which means it’s your win.”

Beorn panted like he had run a marathon and could barely make out the voices telling him to stop, save for one.

"BEORN!" Shouted Wulfric who had just arrived to see his son had gone berserk again.

"Look at me son! Look at me!"

The young stag looked at his father and slowly began to drop his guard.

"It's alright son...put down the sword..."

For a moment, the young prince stood silent and finally dropped the broken weapon.

As the song ended from the object in his pocket, Lock sighed and relaxed his stance and slowly walked over to Beorn. Beorn looked up at Lock with a little fear in his eye as Lock kneeled down in front of him.

“You ok kid? Gave us a bit of a spook there,” Lock said placing a hand on Beorn’s shoulder.

Feeling his anxiety still at its peak, Lock raised his other hand and coated it with a gentle flame. He then placed it on each of Beorn’s injuries making him and Wulfric flinch thinking he was mad for exposing him to fire but no pain came. Instead a soothing sensation came over Beorn as each of his bruises and scratches were healed by Lock’s flame which also calmed his nerves and he started to relax more and more, soon there were no more injuries left to heal and the prince was feeling more calm and refreshed than before as he starred at Lock who gave him a comforting smile.

“There we go, good as new,” Lock said as he stood up.

“Feel better?”

Beorn was surprised at how fast his injuries healed and even more so at how clear his head was.

"What did you do to me?"

“Hellfire,” Lock answers holding his inflamed hand up.

“What can be used for violence and battle can also be used to cleanse and heal. As I healed your wounds and cleansed your mind, I sensed a great bloodlust within your soul,” Lock said as he looked over his shoulder to Wulfric.

“Care to tell me why I almost got beaten into submission? If it weren’t for you intervening I would’ve been forced to use my power."

"My boy is a berserker." Wulfric answered.

"The first in over a hundred years."

“Berserker?” Lock repeats as Wulfirc walks beside Beorn.

"A pure blooded berserker. Legends say they are the fury of the gods made flesh and unlike most warriors they don't need herbs to get them into a frenzy."

Lock was a bit shocked to hear what Beorn was ge looked up at Lock with a bit of a guilty expression. Lock smiled as he coated his hands him Hellfire and began healing his injuries.

“Well one thing’s for certain,” Lock said as he healed himself.

“Your kid is one hell of a warrior, I pity any sorry soul who steps his path. I should know, those strikes of his have imprinted themselves in my bones and memory.” Once Lock was done healing himself he looked down at Beorn and smirked as he crossed his arms.

“You should be proud, Beorn, I’ve fought hundreds upon thousands of enemies in my reality, beasts that would strike fear into most, and a crazed Overlord out of many who we almost destroyed the entire Crystal Palace after I defeated him. You’re one of the first to best me, The Devil’s Hand, in combat, take pride in that and learn from each fight you have in the future. I see great things coming your way as a warrior and maybe you’ll even join your old man on the battlefield one day.”

"Oh please." Scoffed one of the other recruits.

"The only place that mongrel belongs is in a cage."

Lock glanced over at the group of recruits with an unamused expression as some of them snickered. Marshall looked like he was about to tear them a new one but Lock raises his hand stopping him. Lock then walks over to where laid his clothes and begins putting them back on.

“To the smartass who said that please step forward,” Lock requests as he puts on his tank top, shirt, and jacket.

The colt who stepped forward had well groomed mane and a uniform meant for those of noble or royal heritage indicating his status.

“What’s your name, kid?” Lock asked crossing his arms. The noble colt just scoffs as he gives Lock a dirty look with a smug smirk trying to dissuade Lock but to no avail since Lock remains undeterred.

"Let's see." Said Marshall reading the list of recruits.

"Ahh Top Notch. Son of Jet Set and Uppercrust."

“So, Top Notch,” Lock said looking down at the smug colt.

“Why do you believe I belong in a cage?” He asks.

"You? Oh no good sir, I was preferring to this one." He replied pointing to Beorn.

"Northlanders are nothing but savage uncivilized barbarians who live only to steal, kill and plunder from others. Why in Equestria would our princess ally with them is beyond even my understanding."

For the first time since he arrived in Canterlot, Lock became enraged. He uncrossed his arms and glared at Top Notch that would splinter the very ground. This time both Lock’s flames and electricity activated causing small embers and lighting bolts to appear all over his body. Everyone in the area starred at Lock in slight fear of the immense dark aura he was emitting along with the flames that grew along his wings and lighting bolts that crackled more and more as Lock’s rage grew. For Top Notch, it was as if he was starring at his first glimpse of pure darkness as Lock was starring into his ver soul.

“What right do you have to say such things like that?” Lock demanded as he slowly approached the trembling colt.

“I have seen and heard of the many struggles Wulfric and his clan had been through before and even after the war, especially the fact that he had to leave his homeland to protect his people.” The feathers on Lock’s wings sparked and morphed into sharp bladed daggers as he unfurled one of his wings and held it up to Top Notch’s neck.

“You dare spout such nonsense and disrespectful claims in front of someone who’s twice the man you’ll ever be? You dare still accuse them of past mistakes that the late tyrant King Dainn had done when Wulfric and his clan fought for peace and freedom?” Lock leaned in to look deeper in the terrified colts eyes as the embers on his body burned and the electricity bolts crackled more violently.

“You dare to even insult his son and threaten to have him tossed in a cage?”

"Sir. You will find that fear is not in my vocabulary!" Top Notch said sternly while trying to keep his composure.

"No. But it's in your eyes." Marshall replied before getting Dimitri to calm down.

"Stand down Lock, I'll handle this."

Lock turned to Marshall and starred at him for a moment and sighed as he furled his wing back and deactivated his power. He shot Top Notch one last glare before stepping back and looked towards Wulfirc and Beorn.

“I apologize for my outburst." Heapologizes with a curt nod.

"So glad you think so highly of our northern allies cadet because guess what? You'll be training with them today."

Top Notch's expression turned to shock while the other cadets laughed.

"Today we'll be doing survival training!"

“As much as I want to watch the little shit struggle, I believe it’s time I turned in,” Lock said as he yawned.

"And Beorn, when next we spar and you have better control of your berserker’s soul, you’ll be the one on the ground,” Lock challenged with a smirk as he raised his fist up to Beorn.

"Uh...sure!"

As Lock was shown his guest chambers he was greeted by several maids, each seeming to be eager to serve him.

"Welcome master." They said in unison as they bowed their heads. Lock looked behind him dumbly and back to the maids, some giving him bedroom eyes, and pointed at himself.

“Me? Master?” He repeated.

"Oh yes, we are here to serve you in any way possible." Replied one of the maids as two of them began grabbing his arms.

"My you're so tense."

"How's about a massage~?"

“Uh…sure?” Lock said as the maids giggle and pulled him into the room. One of them closed the door as they sat him down on a chair and took off his jacket for him. Another knelt down and removed his boots and socks freeing his feet as another lifted his shirt off leaving only his tank top on. Soon all the maids were starring at his tribal marked arms and giving him highly lustful gazes, the two maids behind him started to massage his shoulders making him feel relaxed as he sighed at their touch and the maid kneeling in front of him started to massage his feet.

“Jeezus…” Lock sighed.

“I could get used to this kind of hospitality.” Lock then instinctively unfurled his wings spreading them out making the maids gasp and shudder at their length as two more maids began to massage his wings.

"Thanks for doing this, ladies. Can’t remember the last time I actually just sat down and took a breather,” Lock sighed.

"Our pleasure...master~."

One of the maids decided to get a little bold and pressed her chest against the back of Locks head while massaging his shoulders, making him blush as he tried to keep himself calm.

"How's that feel?~" she purred rubbing against him.

“I-I…uh…” Lock stuttered as she brought her head down and nuzzled his cheek with hers. The other maids started to get more bold along with her, the other maid massaging his shoulder took his hand and placed it on her chest making Lock’s eyes widen and blush harder as she giggled and hugged his hand into her chest. The maids massaging his wings worked their way up to his joints and wrapped themselves in his wings as they nuzzled their faces into his feathers making his wings shudder a bit at the contact. But what really caught Lock off guard was the maid who was massaging his feet crawled up on top of him and sat on his lap straddling him as she looked down at him with lidded eyes and biting her lower lip with a coy smile.

“Oh Jeez…” Lock muttered as his face became more red.

“Just what did I do to deserve all this?” He wonders out loud.

Their attempts were cut short whrn they heard a small shriek followed by some laughter.

"Oh. Lady Rainbow Dash must be back."

Lock look past the maid straddling him and saw the Rainbow maned pegasus herself on the floor in the doorway rolling around laughing her flank off, he looked around and saw the maids were still having their way with his wings and body which made him blush up a storm as he gently took his hand back from the maid and lifted the one on his lap off him and placed her aside. He stood up straight and straightened his tank top while also trying to not let his wings spring out as Rainbow’s laughter was starting to dwindle as she looked up at him.

“It’s…erm…it’s nice to meet you, Rainbow Dash…” Lock sheepishly said rubbing the back of his head.

"Oh don't mind me." She said just before Wulfric pounced on her.

"Just dealing with my horndog of a husband!"

"Oh you love it."

The maids watched with anticipation as the mare passionately kissed her husband while he hoisted her off the ground.

Lock, though happy at their display of affection for one another, cleared his throat ceasing their antics and glanced at Lock.

“I’m sure the two of you would like to display your love for each other as much as you wish but maybe somewhere else?” Lock requests.

“After all this is my guest room and I’d like to get some shut eye for tomorrow.” Lock glanced at the maids and chuckled.

“And yes, ladies, that includes you even if you’d like to keep me company.”

"Aww is the little human shy?" Dashed teased with a grin.

"Wulric and I do it front of the maids all the time~."

"Not ALL the time."

“Oi ve…as if one Dash was enough already…” Lock groaned while facepalming himself.

“But I guess I can see why you two fit so well with each other.”

"What can I say? I found me a real pair of she wolves~." Wulfric boasted as he smacked Rainbows flank before carrying her on his shoulders.

"The next room is free sir." One of the maids offered before Rainbow whispered something in her husbands ear.

"Hey Lock?"

“What?” Lock replied before heading out.

"Enjoy the show!"

Without warning, Wulfric pulled down rainbows pantd to reveal her well toned rump and thong underwear while the maids screamed in delight.

"You look, only he can touch~." Rainbow boasted whole shaking it a few times before being carried into the next room.

“I-I-I…ALRIGHT THAT’S IT!” Lock yelped as he jumped back and quickly unfurled his wings and flapped them as hard as he could against Wulfric, Rainbow, and the maids creating a strong gust of wind making them all tumble out of the room and into the hallway. Once everyone was splayed all over the floor outside, Lock walked over to the door and stuck his head out.

“I bid you all goodnight!” He proclaimed with a shit eating grin before slamming the door and locking it.

He grumbled to himself as he heard the laughter from Wulfric and Rainbow fade away down the hall before laying down on his bed with hands behind his back. The image of Rainbow’s flank flashed in his mind making him shake his head of the mere thought of it.

“She’s married and you’re a stranger, she’s married and you’re a stranger,” he repeated to himself.

Lock then sat up from his bed and walked to the bathroom to wash himself, after about 10 minutes later he exited the bathroom leaving a trail of steam behind him as he used his flames to quickly dry himself from the water. He stepped out wearing only his pants as he tossed his tank top over with his other clothes and walked towards the balcony and opened the doors to the edge of the balcony and gazed at the lights that lit up the city and the stars that twinkled in the sky. The moon was also in the air which meant Luna must’ve just raised it making Lock smile.

“At least the nights here are as pleasant to look at here as it is back in my reality,” Lock said to himself. Lock then frowned at the thought of his reality and became a little worried about how everyone was doing without him. Sure they had Flash to keep everyone safe in his absence but most of the world was still under Dainn’s tyrannic control but all he could do now is wait until the mirror regains its power so he could return from whence he came.

Before Lock returned to his room, he saw a glimpse of something flying towards one of the higher towers of the castle. At first he thought it was just one of the night guards but his gut told him otherwise making him furrow his brows. Lock jumped up on the balcony to scan the surroundings to catch a glimpse of the shadow again. He soon found his target flying through the sky and he jumped off the balcony and flew silently after the shadow. He kept a safe distance so he wouldn’t be spotted and watched as the shadow landed on the balcony and Lock hid behind a nearby rooftop. The shadow peered inside, as did Lock, and saw Selene brushing her hair while looking in the mirror with a smile. The shadow moved out from his hiding place and pulled out what looked like a ring of some sort but Lock recognized it as a magic suppression ring immediately making him gasp and growl since he put two and two together. Lock jumped in the air and flew to Selene’s balcony and landed quietly behind the hooded figure, especially since he wasn’t wearing any shoes. Lock crept up behind the hooded intruder and leaned in slightly.

“There a reason why you’re in front of the Princess’s chambers at this hour?” Lock questions making the intruder jump.

His encounter was unfortunatley interrupted when heard the distinct sound of a creaking bed thumping against the wall followed by a few grunts and two familiar voices.

"Mmm!~ come on Wulfric, do it harder!~"

"Rrrg!!"

Lock was not unfamiliar to these sounds as he had heard them countless times before in his world and most of the time it came from a mare being mercilessly raped yet this time it was a completely different situation.

"I love you so much Rainbow!" Wulfric grunted before pulling his wifes mane.

"Nng~! Love you to stud!~" She replied with a grin unaware their conversation could be heard.

“Oh for fuck’s sake…” Lock face palmed before getting kicked in the chest by the hooded figure, he fell backwards but caught himself as the hooded figure crashed through the doors and ran towards Selene. Lock shook his head and dashed after the hooded figure and caught his hood before he could grab Selene and through him backwards.

“You ain’t touching her on my watch, asshole!” Lock sneered as he took a stance with his fists raised. The intruder responded with a flash bomb and crashed out the window in an attempt to escape.

“Gaurds!” Lock called out as two thestrals burst through the door.

“Get Princess Selene to safety and inform the Princesses that there’s an intruder after her!” Lock commanded as he dashed through the same window and saw the hooded figure jump into the air and fly away. Lock growled again and took off after him into the air and was catching up quickly, he poured more power into his wings and shot after the intruder and right past him as he stopped him in his tracks by appearing in front of the intruder in midair.

“Flying somewhere?” He mocks as intruder lunged at him with a hidden dagger but Lock was able to dodge to the right and grabs his arm before landing several punches him in the face as hard as he could. A few bloody teeth flew out from under his hood as Lock grabbed his collar and started beating his face in.

“You dare…threaten…Selene…like that!” Lock shouted with each punch.

The hooded intruder barely moved as Lock ripped off his cloak revealing a pegasus pony with most of his muzzle bashed in. Lock raised they barely conscious stallion up to his face as they hovered in the air.

“You failed, bastard. Now tell me who sent you” He demands as the intruder seemed to crack a small smirk making Lock confused until he heard a scream come from below that sounded like Selene. Lock then shot to the ground still keeping his grip on the intruder and touched down on the balcony of Selene’s room. Inside were three more hooded figures surrounding her and one of the thestral guards on the ground in a pool of blood as the other was on his knee with a dagger sticking out of his leg. Lock tossed the one in his grip aside as he lunged in before they could advance and spin kicked one of the hooded figures in the head knocking him to the ground as he flipped in front of Selene and raised his arm in front of her in a protective manor.

“Are you alright, Selene?” Lock asked glancing over his shoulder.

"Y-yes!" She stuttered when Luna and two of her night guards burst into the room.

"My daughter! Where is she?!"

The two remaining intruders brought their own flash bangs and blinded everyone in the room save for Lock thanks to his sharp senses. Though his sight was slightly blinded he could hear both intruders dash past him towards the young princess behind him. Using his wings, he unfurled them and bashed both intruders away from Selene before pouncing on the one to his right and jabbed his windpipe making him choke and gasp for air. Lock then lunged to the other downed intruder and tried to do the same but this one also seemed to have sharp senses as he shot up and throw a dagger in Selene’s direction while she and the others were still blinded. Time seemed to slow down as he put all his power in his legs and jumped in front of the flying dagger with his arms stretched out towards Selene. Lock managed make it in time by shielding Selene, wrapping his arms and wings around her, as the dagger plunged itself in his shoulder making him grunt in pain. Lock looked over his shoulder and glared at the stunned remaining intruder as he quickly flicked his wing as a feather blade shot out and impaled itself in the intruders head killing him instantly as he fell to the ground. Soon everyone’s vision came back to them and Selene rubbed her eyes and looked up to see Lock smiling down at her.

“It’s ok, Selene, you’re safe now,” Lock said making her gasp and blush a little. Selene then noticed a red liquid pooling down Lock’s side as she looked down and noticed a small puddle form on the ground making her eyes go wide and gasp again.

"Get this man a medic!" Shouted the first guard as his partner ran down the hall to fetch help.

"Sir Lock please sit down."

Princess Luna helped Dimitri rest on a nearby chair dedpite getting her nighthown a bit bloody and examined his wound.

"Seems it didn't go too deep."

As soon as Luna was about to user her magic to heal his wound, sickly green veins started to spread all over his skin making Lock grunt and clutch his chest and Luna and Selene began to panic.

“Ngh!…shit, the dagger was poisoned…but don’t worry I can fix it,” He said as he shakily got up.

Before Luna could protest, Lock closed his eyes and focused on his power. His body soon was covered in flames as the wound on his back looked to be set on fire and the green veins stopped spreading, he grunted and winced in the process as Luna and Selene watched in awe and shock as the wound slowly began to close under the flames covering Lock and the green veins began to fade away. As Lock was healing himself, Selene placed a hand on her chest as her heart was beating so fast as she gazed at the beautiful flames that encased his body and cinders that danced along his incredible wings. This man, this brave human, saved her when she would’ve perished if not for him which made her smile and blush at her savior. Soon after Lock extinguished the flames the wound on his back had almost completely closed but was still bleeding slightly, as for the poison the green veins had all but faded away but Lock still looked exhausted.

“That should do it…” Lock sighed as he sat back down and looked to Luna.

“You may continue your treatment, Princess, though it’s a damn shame what happened to your loyal guard,” Lock said sadly as he glanced at the dead thestral guard laying on the ground.

“Whoever these assailants were they new what they were doing, I can bet they each had a magic suppressor ring on them in case one or two of them got caught. The poison daggers meant they’d kill anyone in their way so I’m guessing this was a kidnapping for Selene or an assassination in case she struggled too much or if all else failed.” Lock looked to one of the night guards.

“I killed two of them but the other two should still be alive, one’s out on the balcony and that one is unconscious,” Lock said pointing at one of the hooded figures laying on the ground.

“Please subdue them both so we can find out who sent them, though I may have an idea who it may be.”

Lock glanced at Selene and noticed she had a small bruise on her cheek which made him frown.

“You’re hurt, Selene,” Lock said as he raised his hand gently cupped her cheek.

“Here, let me fix it.”

Lock’s hand ignited a small ember that made Selene flinch but soon relax as the comforting warmth of the flames soothed her. The young princess gazed into Lock’s eyes as he healed her bruise and became lost as she stared into them. The warmth of his gentle, soothing flame, the way he cupped her cheek ever so gently, how he put himself in danger for her without a second thought, and how he smiled at her made her heart skip a beat as it beat faster and her cheeks flushed. Never before had she felt this feeling before with anyone else, but this young human man who was just a few years older than her made her feel protected as her heart continued to flutter. Soon Lock pulled his hand away, much to her reluctance, as the bruise on her cheek had completely faded away which made him smile warmly at her.

“There we go, just as pretty as before,” Lock said making her swoon.

After the incident, Lock made his way back to the room when he spotted Wulfric marching up to him from behind.

"Lock!" He called out looking relieved to see him.

"Just heard about the attack, you alright?"

Lock furrowed his brows as he turned around and corset his arms and deadpanned at Wulfric.

“And just where the hell have you been?” Lock snaps surprising Wulfirc.

"Bedding my wife." Wulfric answered in a casual manner.

Lock growled in annoyance as he stomped over to Wulfirc and grabbed him by his collar before slamming him against the wall.

“And just what the hell am I supposed to say to that?!” Lock demands.

“That I should be proud of the fact you got laid while Selene almost got kidnaped or worse killed?! What’s the matter with you?!”

"Easy my friend." Wulfric responded as he raised his hand.

"She wasn't the only one. MY daughter was attacked as well."

Lock was taken back by this information as he released Wulfirc and stepped back.

“What? When?” He asks.

"It was just after I bedded Rainbow dash."

Earlier

Wulfric was smiling at his sleeping mare after their romp in the sack before stepping out for some fresh air and noticed something was off.

"Wait...where are the guards?"

His question would soon be answered by a bloodstain on the marble floor and a discarded helmet tucked behind one of the curtains. He then saw Lock flying in the air towards one of the higher towers where, if he remembered correctly, Princess Selene’s chambers were. What made him even more curious was the fact that he saw him wearing only his pants and was even barefoot as he flew in the starry sky towards the tower.

"What in odins name?" He asked himself before spotting two figures heading straight for the bed chamber where his daughter was sleeping.

"Oh no you don't." He whispered following stealthly behind them.

Wulfirc crept after the two figures as they rounded the corner and stood in front of the bedroom while he hid behind the corner and peered out to see two hooded intruders with one trying to pick the lock and he could hear what they were saying.

“You sure this is the room?” One said.

“Course I’m sure, master’s info was spot on and he made sure to let me know where the halfbreed’s chambers were,” the other said.

“Did he say what to do with her?”

“Nothing besides making sure her parents burn the image of her blood pouring from her throat.”

“I see, so why not have some fun before we do that?”

“Fun? What are blabbering about?”

“Oh you know what I mean, I caught a glimpse of her earlier today and I gotta say she’s quite the looker. Had a pair of tits I could grope and an ass I could smack around all day.”

“Gods you’re such a scumbag sometimes…”

“Oh don’t act all innocent with me, I saw you ogling her whore of a mother.”

“Alright fine but do you seriously wanna do this? We’re just supposed to slit her throat and be done with it.”

“Just one good rut is all I’m asking, then you can gut her however you see fit.”

“Ugh fine, but make sure you’re quick about it. I don’t wanna stick around once the job is done and the others should have captured the moon sluts brat by now.”

“Well then hurry up and pick the damn lock already.”

Without hesitation, Wulfric put his hunting skills to good use and chucked a small pebble at a nearby window, catching their attention.

"You hear that?"

“Aw you’re just imagining it, probably just a bug or something so just keep on that lock.” the second intruder said waving his hand dismissively.

The second attempt prove more sucessful as he purposely snapped a dry branch he found in the bushes.

"Crap! Someone's here!" Whispered the first one as he drew out his dagger.

“I thought you said you killed the guards!” The other accuses drawing his own dagger.

"I did!" His partner argued as they made their way into the garden.

Wulfric stayed hidden in the trees waiting for the right moment as they crept closer.

"If we don't finish this job, Bluebloods gonna finish us!"

“Buck it, I’m kicking the damn door in!” The lock picker said as he raised his leg and kicked the door making it fly open. Apple Jewel was awoken immediately as the assailants ran towards her with their daggers drawn ready to spill her blood.

Apple Jewel let out a short scream before the first assassin placed his hand over her mouth and gestured her to be quiet as he showed off his weapon.

"Don't worry, we'll be quick~."

She could only squirm helplessly as her attacker began to unzip his trousers with a hungry look in his eye, ready to defile her body when suddenly there was a gurgling sound behind him making him turn his head to see a sword sticking out of his partners neck as he choked on his blood. He fell down with a thud as a very pissed off King of the North glared daggers at the assailant still on top of his daughter.

"Get away from my daughter...." Wulfric hissed as the assassin quickly backed off and raised both hands in surrender.

“I-I-I wasn’t g-gonna do a-anything…” he pleaded fearfully while Apple Jewel sprang out of her bed and into her fathers arms as she cried her eyes out. This sent Wulfric over the edge as he raised his weapon.

"Don't try and lie to me you SNAKE!!"

With one stroke, Wulfric cleaved off the assassins leg, making him scream in agony and alerting the other guards.

“Lord Wulfirc!” One of the thestrals shouted as three of them charged in and was shocked at the whole scene before them.

"Get this bastard some treatment and lock him up before I finish the job!!"

As Wulfrics tale came to an end, Dimitri was shocked at just how far these killers were willing to go when it came to their job.

"When I heard what happened, I came to find you."

“I…had no idea,” Lock said in disbelief.

“And your daughter, is she alright?”

"Safe and tucked away with Applejack." Wulfric sighed with relief.

"Since we're up, how about an ale in my room?"

“I…I’d like that, hell I could use 5 right now,” Lock jokes as he walks with Wulfric.

When they arrived at the room however, they were greeted by a pleasant and rather sexy surprise in the form of Applejack and Rainbow dash laying on the bed.

"Hey boys~."

"Took you long enough~"

Lock’s eyes widened as he went slack jawed with flushed cheeks and much to his dismay, his wings sprung out to their full 8ft length making him blush harder as both mares and the stag laughed their asses off.

"Here to join us big guy?" Rainbow offered while shaking her flank much to his surprise.

To make matters worse, Lock realized that he was still only wearing his pants as both mares gazed at his very well toned torso and large tribal marked arms making him nervous.

“I-I…uh…” He stuttered as they continued to gawk at his body.

"This may surprise you but most northerners have a very...open relationship." Said Wulfric as he smacked both mares flanks.

“O-open? You mean?” Lock said as Rainbow and Applejack sauntered over time Lock with a sway in their hips.

"Eeyup~." Applejack replied while guiding his hand to her left flank.

“But why me?” Lock wonders as Rainbow takes one of his wings and nuzzles into his feathers.

"You did help rescue Selene plus...I saw how you looked at my flank~" She teased before taking his free hand down to her flank.

"By the way, who's do you prefer~?"

“Well I mean I won’t lie,” Lock said while glancing to Wulfric who simply shrugged.

“I…did stare a bit before,” he admitted making Rainbow giggle as she and Applejack rubbed their hands along his abs.

“And if I’m still being honest…yours does feel quite nice, Applejack.”

"You're not so bad yourself hon~." The farm mare answered as they both bent over for them.

"Now take your pick~."

“And…you’re sure you’re ok with this?” Lock questioned Wulfric as he seemed hypnotized by how both mares swayed their hips in front of him.

"Oh trust me, you'll love this~." Wulfric placed his hand on Applejacks flank as she murred with pleasure while Rainbow continued to entice Lock.

"Come and get me~." She dared grinning at him with bedroom eyes.

That was the final nail hit as Lock’s entire atmosphere seemed to take a 360 degree turn as his face went from nervous to a predator like smile.

“So…the little mare wishes to be the prey on this night of lust and pleasure,” Lock said as he gently pushed Rainbow on the bed and crawled over her like an animal about to devour his meal.

“I wonder…does the little mare like it when I do this?” He questioned in her ear as he took both her wings and began to squeeze them along the base.

Rainbow squeaked at the sensation she was feeling and grinned as he continued to fondle her when he suddenly stopped to see the rather large scar on her belly.

“What’s…this scar?” Lock wondered halting everyone’s movements.

"This?" Rainbow said with a nostalgic smile.

"This is the reason I have my baby boy now."

Wulfric moved away from Applejack for a moment to kiss her scar as he said something that saddened his mood a bit.

"By some miracle she survived but at the cost of having future little ones."

“You did an emergency C-Section on her?” Lock asked a bit surprised.

"Not exactly." Wulcric replied before being pulled back by Applejack.

"Less gabbing and more bucking."

“Wait,” Lock said earning groans of protest.

“I want to try something,” he said as he raised his hand and engulfed it in Hellfire making Rainbow nervous.

“Please trust me, it’s the least I could do,” he said with a smile as he gently paced his hand on Rainbow’s scarred stomach. Rainbow flinched as she expected to feel a burning pain but instead felt a very soothing warmth from Lock’s enflamed hand. His brows furrowed as he the placed both hands on her stomach making the flames grow brighter as he grunted pouring more of his power into his hands. Rainbow felt something within her stomach, like a raging flame that warmed her very soul as she and the others gazed at the bright spectacle. After about minute later, the flames begin to extinguish as Lock leans back, his body drenched in sweat and almost completely out of breath and snuff out the flames on his hands.

“That…that should…do it…” he said between breathes as he wiped his forehead.

“Now you…can choose to…give Beorn…as many siblings…as you wish.”

Rainbow looked down and gasped and Wulfric and Applejack soon followed as they all gazed at her stomach. Instead of a large scar nothing was there, just her plain and smooth fur along with her slightly toned abdominals. Everyone looked up at Lock in complete shock as he smiled and crawled over behind Applejack and noticed her own scars.

“You two have been through so much under the tyranny of Dainn,” Lock said as he placed a hand on Applejacks back and a small ember flickered from within.

"Wait." The farm mare said surprising him.

"I'd actually like to keep mine sugarcube."

"Really? Why?" Lock inquired before Applejack told him of how she and Wulfric became lovers and how it was her scars that won his affection, the story made him smile as he had rarely seen such a thing in his world. At first, there was silence until Rainbow pounced on Lock with a very passionate kiss telling him.

"Dominate me!~"

Lock chuckled and replied by spinning her so he was on top of her as he looked down at her with the same predator like smile as before.

“Ah Ah Ah, little mare,” He teased as he placed his hands on her stomach and worked their way up.

“Tonight you are still my prey,” he hissed seductively.

Lock chuckled and replied by spinning her so he was on top of her as he looked down at her with the same predator like smile as before.

"And I always make sure I savor my meal,” he whispered in her ear as he groped her breasts. He fondled them soft and gentle at first but then began to squeeze them as he lowered his head to them and suckled on her nipple while nibbling it with his K9’s, he got an even more pleasant surprise when her breasts began to lactate.

"Mmm yeah drink up~" she purred while stroking his head like a foal.

On the other half of the bed was Applejack having her mane pulled while her husband rammed her like a beast.

Lock gulped down the delicious fluid as he switched between breasts earning more moans of pleasure from the prismatic mare. Once he got a mouthful of her milk, he brought his head up and kissed her passionately as her milk swirled in her mouth surprising her but she didn’t protest as she gulped it down and swirled her tongue with his.

“The little mare pulled a prank on me earlier tonight,” Lock said after he pulled away leaving Rainbow in a dazed state.

"It seems she must learn a lesson,” he said as he stood up and took off his pants and boxers and tossed him aside, leaving his human 10in long member standing proud and on display.

“The little mare shall service me until I am ready to please her again,” He demands with a sly smirk.

Rainbow wasted no time in servicing her partner and positioning herself comfortably.

"Told you they were she wolves." Wulftic boasted as Applejack moaned in pleasure.

“You said it,” Lock chuckled as Rainbow ran her tongue from the base of his dick all the way to the tip as she swirled her tongue around the tip and started to suck him deep earning a groan of pleasure from him. She bobbed her head back and forth sucking harder with each movement as she used one of her hands to fondle his balls and the other to pleasure herself. Lock placed a hand on her head and scratched behind her ear as she sighed and looked at him with lidded eyes. With an audible pop, Rainbow slid her mouth off Lock’s dick and began to suck his balls as she stroked his shaft making Lock groan more as he then scratched both her ears earning more moans from Rainbow.

“Jeezus…just what did I do to deserve this?” Lock wondered out loud.

"Mmm my turn~."

Rainbow turned to give her lover a clear view of her flank and spanked herself for good measure.

"Be glad i'm not in heat~."

I wonder if that would be so bad? Lock thought to himself.

“I suppose the little mare deserves a reward for pleasing me,” He said as he kneeled down and placed a hand on each flank and spreading them wide.

“Fun fact about my power,” Lock said as he leaned in towards her dripping sex.

“I can stretch certain parts of my body like rubber." he said as he began to eat his lovely pegasus out. Lock’s tongue swirled around Rainbow’s nethers as she moaned and squealed in pleasure but Lock didn’t stop there. Using his power, Lock stretched his tongue deeper within Rainbow as she gasped and arched her head back and began squealing loudly as he stretched out tongue continued to explore and wiggle around in her marehood. Lock then felt a slight bump within Rainbow’s pussy which meant he found his target. He then used his tongue to press and lick the bump making Rainbow cry out more loud than she ever had before as Lock played fervently with her quite sensitive G-spot.

Rainbow shrieked at the top of her lungs having been pushed to the limit and collapsed on the bed but Lock was far from done. He crawled up over Rainbow and prodded his member against her sensitive sex since she had just probably orgasmed harder than she ever had before.

“Tell me something, little mare,” Lock whispered in her ear making her shiver.

“Are you also my mare?”

Rainbow pulled Lock in close as the tip of his cock prodded her entrance.

"Only if you make me say it~."

“You’ll soon come to regret that,” he growled as he plunged all of his member into Rainbow making he open her mouth in a silent scream as the tip of Lock’s dick penetrated her womb. Lock seized the opportunity of Rainbow’s open mouth and locked his lips with hers comply dominating her tongue as he began to jackhammer into her, making her moan as loud as she could into Lock’s mouth as he groped her breasts and pinched her nipples casing milk to leak out making her eyes roll back from the sheer pleasure her body was receiving. Lock pulled back from their sloppy make out session as Rainbow screamed to the high heavens as Lock continued to thrust into her as hard as he could, grunting with each thrust.

“I ask you again…little mare,” Lock said as he snaked one of his his hands down to her clit and rubbed and flicked it.

“Are you…my mare…also?”

Rainbow moaned as he continued to ravage her.

"Oh buck yes!!~" she answered while wrapping her hind legs around him.

"Now how about giving Beorn those siblings~?"

Well she said it, Lock thought with a smirk.

“The little mare…” Lock said before thrusting a few more times.

“Shall get what she deserves!” Lock yelled as he came. Rope after rope of his sperm erupted into Rainbow’s womb making her cry out in pure ecstasy as he filled her. Lock silenced her screaming by kissing her as he continued to fill her as she wrapped her arms around his head and pressed into the kiss as drool leaked out of their mouths. Soon Lock’s orgasm faded as he slowly pulled out leaving Rainbow a trembling mess as globs of his sperm leaked out onto the bed sheets.

“I hope Beorn gets a brother, I’d like to see the two of them spar against one another,” Lock said in a smug tone.

Rainbow seemed to be in her own little world of bliss as Wulfirc finished with Applejack who was also resting. Applejack looked over to Lock and saw he was still aroused making her arch a brow.

“Curious?” Lock asked the cow mare with a smirk.

"Fun fact about us humans, we last longer in bed than most males in this world. I’d say I’ve got about a couple more rounds in me.”

"I hoped you'd say that sugarcube~." The farm mare said as she bent over again with a rather bold request.

"But I want you to use the...back door~."

“If that’s what the cow mare wants,” Lock said as he crawled over to her and prodded her puckering entrance.

“You won’t be walking right in the morning…” Lock purred in her ear as he slowly entered her rear. Applejack gasped as Lock slipped in until he was all the way. Without warning, Lock started to ram Applejack just as hard as he did Rainbow making her scream out in pleasure. Lock grabbed both her arms and railed her anus without rest making her cry out more in pure pleasure.

“Holy fuck, you’re tight!” Lock yelped but still continued to ram her.

“You like it up your sexy little ass, sugarcube?” Lock asked as he smacked her flank.

"Buck yeah!~ but one more thing." Applejack yanked him down with a murderous glare in her eyes.

"Call me "Cow Mare" again and you'll be the one who can't walk."

“Uh…sure.” Lock gulped but Applejack winked as she pushed him on his back giving him a very lustrous gaze.

"Ready for a rodeo?" She asked putting on her hat.

Lock smirked as she began to rise up and down while he met her halfway as she used Lock’s chest to balance herself while she rode him. Lock reached up and grabbed Applejack’s bouncing breasts and squeezed them making her cry out again in pleasure. As soon as Applejacks mouth opened wide enough, Lock leaned up and stole her lips in a heated, slobbery kiss as she wrapped her arms around him as they continued. Their tongues battled for supremacy but Lock, still a little worn out from his time with Rainbow, lost the battle as Applejacks tongue entered his mouth and glided along his teeth and tongue. He opened his eyes along with Applejack as they starred at one another, her beautiful emerald eyes looked deep within Lock’s as his did the same and both could sense the amount of passionate care they had for one another in this moment.

“Fuck you’re so find damn sexy…” Lock said as he thrusted up into her.

“I asked Rainbow this,” Lock said as he leaned back and grabbed her hips.

“But I’d like to know,” he said as he lifted and slammed his hips against Applejack making her yelp loudly each time.

"Are you my mare as well, Applejack?” He asked as he mirrored the same technique by rubbing and flicking her clit sending her over the edge.

"Don't push it Sugarcube~." Applejack replied before moving his hand back to her flank.

"I'm Wulfrics girl."

“Eh, couldn’t hurt to try,” Lock shrugged.

“Now let’s finish this,” he said as he gave Applejack a few more last thrusts while plunging his fingers deep within her marehood making her arch her back as she came along with Lock shooting his load up her ass. Applejack leaned back until she fell on her back freeing Lock’s member leaving her clocked out for the night.

Lock then chuckled and sat up and looked around him seeing all he had done and said…making him slowly frown and go pale.

“Oh no…” he muttered as he slowly got up from the bed, careful not to wake or disturb them.

“Oh no no no no no, what have I done…?” He whispered. Doing a double take making sure everyone was still out of it, Lock quickly grabbed a towel from the bathroom, wiped himself down, put his boxers and pants on and crept to the window. Taking one last look to make sure no one saw him, Wufric and the mares were still either sleeping, passed out, or still recovering making him sigh in relief as he opened the window, flew out in the air, and shut the window behind him.

Lock quietly flew to the tower where is guest chambers were and touch-downed on the balcony and opened the doors and closed them behind him. Lock then knelt down and activated his power, creating a noise canceling barrier in his room so he wouldn’t be heard.

“I’M SUCH A FUCKING IDIOT!!!”

End.

A Wild Night Part 2

“Are you also my mare?! What the fuck was I fucking thinking! Fucking someone else’s wives and I say that stupid shit to his first wife?! GOD FUCKING DAMNIT!”Lock screamed punching a hole in the wall.

"Why didn’t I trust my instincts?! Why the fuck couldn’t I’ve just said no and walk away?! FUCKING HELL!” He roared.

“Fucking hell…” Lock growled as he sat on his bed burying his face in his hands.

“What the fuck am I gonna do…this wasn’t supposed to happen,” he said to himself.

"I shouldn’t even be here, let alone do something like that…” Lock slowly got up and grabbed his jacket and shirt and put them both on.

"Maybe I should check on the mirror and see if I can use my power on it to get me home…” he sighed sadly as he put on his boots.

Before he was able to fly off, Lock heard a knock on the door making him pause and glance over his shoulder. Part of him just wanted to leave and ignore whoever was on the other side but that would just spur questions which is something he didn’t want to happen since he already had a lot on his plate. Lock sighed as he slowly walked over to the door and was about to open it, until he caught a whiff of himself and he realized he still reeked of sex. Lock quickly used his flames to burn away any excess musk off of him so he wouldn’t have any lingering odors on him. Once he was done he snapped his fingers deactivating the barrier and opened the door, revealing Selene who looked up at him curiously since he was fully clothed.

“Selene? What are you doing here at this hour?” Lock asked trying his best to hide his damaged voice after his screaming.

"I came to see how you were doing." She replied.

“Oh well…” Lock trailed off not sure how to respond.

“I’ll be honest with you, I’m…thinking of heading to the Crystal Empire and getting the mirrored to take me home…” Lock admits shocking Selene.

"What? W-why?!? I thought you were staying to help."

“I fucked up, that’s why!” Lock shot back walking away from the door and sitting on a chair.

“I did and said things just moments ago and I may have ruined my friendship with Wulfric and his wives. How the hell can I remain in this world if I’m unable to face them again?” He questions.

“I’d be better off if I just left now so I wouldn’t embarrass myself anymore. If you knew what I did you’d think I’m such a fucking scumbag…” Lock sighed burring his face in his hands again.

"What do you mean?" The young princess inquired.

"How could you have ruined their relationship?"

“It’s…complicated.” Lock sighed looking up at her but then looking away.

"You’re young, you wouldn’t really understand.”

"Understand what? That my aunts shared another man between themselves?"

Lock was shocked to hear such an answer coming from the young filly when she said with an amused smirk.

"You weren't exactly quiet."

“Well that’s just it…” Lock said as he said while blushing.

“I did it with them and they’re married. And I said and did things to Applejack that made me feel like I…was trying to steal her from Wulfric,” Lock said in shame as he stood up and walked over to the wall and leaned his head against it.

“I didn’t know what came over me, they said it was ok to be with them but this feeling of guilt is eating away at me. I know Applejack and Rainbow Dash are loyal to Wulfric in their marriage but what does that make me? Just some fuck buddy they invited in the heat of the moment?” Lock said as he hit the wall with is fist.

“I’ve only been here almost a week and I managed to screw up probably one of the best relationships I’ve ever had. All I can think about now is to spare myself any more shame and return to my world and finish the war that’s still raging with my apprentice,” Lock sighed sadly.

“Besides why do you care if I leave?” Lock questions looking over his shoulder while the princesses cheeks began to flare up as she stammered trying to find an answer.

"W-well um..."

“Look don’t bother answering,” Lock said as he made his way to the balcony doors.

“The sooner I'm gone the better, might even track down Blueballs and collect his head while I’m at it.” Before Lock could open the doors, Selene mustered up her courage and quickly walked over to him and wrapped her arms around Lock from behind surprising Lock.

“Selene, what’re you…?”

"Please don't go!" She pleaded holding him tight.

“Selene…” Lock sighed.

“You shouldn’t get so close to me, I’m impure.” He looked over his shoulder and saw she had tears in her eyes as she continued to hug him as tight as she could.

“Why do you shed tears for The Devil’s Hand like myself?”

"Cause you're my friend!" She shouted.

"Aren't you?"

Lock didn’t answer as he gently removed Selene’s arms and turned to face her. Lock then unfurled his wings and spread them out wide as he activated his flames causing embers to flicker off his body and small cinders to fall from his wings.

“Could you truly befriend someone who’s soul is dark and filled to the brim with thousands of souls he’s cut down and murdered? Would you befriend someone who’s never once batted an eye to those who pleaded for their lives?” Lock leaned down to look deep into her eyes.

“Friendship aside, who would even give me the time of day to actually share their feelings with me and care for me like those do when they love each other?”

"I would, if you'll give me a chance."

Again Lock didn’t answer as he starred into her eyes and saw her conviction behind her words. Though as she starred back Lock could see something else. This young mare didn’t just care for Lock as a friend, she cared for him because she sees him as something more.

“Do you truly care for me that much you’d be willing to share your feelings with me?” Lock questions.

Selene’s cheeks tinted a bit but her resolve stayed strong as she nodded her head in response. Then, for the first time in a long time, Selene saw something she never expected to see from someone like Lock. Small tears began to fall from his eyes as his face became more pained as he let his wings droop and he fell to the ground on his knees silently whimpering.

“Why do you care about me so much…?” Lock asked looking to the floor.

“Why would you share your feelings with someone like me? I’m not worthy of your feelings nor your friendship. All I do is fight and kill…yet you say I deserve to be happy? After what I did to Applejack and Rainbow Dash?” Lock looked up at Selene with a pained expression.

“Are you also saying they’d accept me as well?”

"I'm sure they would." She said with confidence in her voice.

"If you don't believe me, try heading back to Uncle Wulfrics room. You'll see."

Lock looked out the window and saw in the distance that the light from Wulfrics room was still on. He looked back up at Selene as she smiled at Lock and nodded her head. Lock then stood up and turned around and opened the doors to fly back but turned around to face Selene.

“Selene,” Lock said as he walked towards her and brogue her into a hug. His wings also enveloped her making her blush but she returned the embrace since she felt so safe in his wings.

“Thank you…” he said before catching her off guard by planting a small kiss on her forehead making her eyes widen. Lock smiled as he stepped back and took to the skies leaving a very red faced Selene.

Lock soon arrived back at Wulfrics room and saw them all still awake, still naked, talking amongst themselves not yet noticing Lock. When his eyes set upon Applejack, the feeling of guilt crept up his spine making him go a little rigid as he struggled to take a step forward. But Selene’s words and eyes flashed in his mind and pushed him to keep going as he slowly opened the doors gaining their attention.

“Uh…hey everyone,” Lock said looking away with a guilty expression.

"I take it you sorted things out?" Asked Wulfric while taking a sip of ale.

Lock winced at the mere sound of Wulfrics voice and without hesitation he stood up as straight as he could and bowed his head.

“I would like to apologize for the inappropriate things I said during our…time together and I accept any punishment you have for me. I am many things but if there’s one thing I would never do is violate the sanctity if one’s marriage to another. However what I said not only did just that but I almost disrespected you all, taking the cowards way out by…threatening to leave this world and returning to my own,” Lock confesses surprising everyone.

“I just want to let you all know that you’re all incredible people and I would never want to ruin what you have with each other. I guess, in a way, I was jealous because I wanted what you have and I overstepped my boundaries,” He said while still bowing.

“If you all choose to not forgive me, then I understand.”

In response, Rainbow Dash threw him onto the bed with a grin.

"If you wanna make it up to us then you'll help Wulfric buck us all night~."

“Wh-what!?” Lock said in shock as Rainbow through off his jacket and shirts.

“B-but I said such disrespectful things to You Applejack, how could this be the alternative?” He asks as she takes off his pants until he was just in his boxers.

"Dirty talk is perfectly natural hon." Applejack responded while crawling on top of him.

"You should hear what our husband calls us~."

Lock found himself hypnotized by her breasts just dangling out of reach while Rainbow proceeded to pull down his boxers.

"Well go on, fondle em~."

“I…oh fuck it.” Lock said in defeat as he reached up and grabbed both pairs of breasts making them both moan.

“For the record, I still feel kinda bad for saying things like are you my mare? and all that.” Lock said as he pinched both their nipples and suckled on Rainbows.

“You two are still Wulfrics wives and I’m just along for the ride.”

"Like Applejack said, it's natural." Rainbow sighed with pleasure before pulling him off.

"And you know, it's kinda unfair you didn't do me next~." She teased as she bent over to spread her flank for him.

Lock rolled his eyes with a smirk as he got off the bed confusing the mares.

“Watch this,” was all he said as he closed his eyes. Soon his body began to change, his skin grew crimson red fur as he grew a few more inches, his nose stretched into a muzzle with a strong jawline and his hair grew out into a long mane and changed from its natural black to fire red and orange as it flickered like a nonexistent fire along with a tail that grew from the back of his waist that flickered similarly to his mane. From Lock’s forehead grew a horn that was at least 7in long as he finished his transformation. There, standing in front of both slack jawed mares, along with a very surprised Wulfric, was a crimson red furred and winged Alicorn with tribal marked arms that represented his cutie marks. Lock opened his eyes to reveal a deep amber color as he looked down to his new form and smirked.

“Wasn’t expecting it to work this well.” he said in a more rough voice that sent chills down Rainbow’s and Applejacks spines.

“But I’m pleased with how it turned out.” he said while glancing at Rainbow and Applejack.

“Wouldn’t you agree?”

Both mares were stunned at this sudden transformation as lock proceeded to mount Rainbow Dash again.

"Hold it!" Said Wulfric.

"I say we double team her."

“Sure, you want the front door or the back?” Lock said he he snaked his hands around and groped Rainbows breast and blew into her ear making her gasp and shudder.

"Since you're now an Alicorn, I rather not risk you knocking up my wife."

Rainbow snickered at her husbands comment before her legs were suddenly spread open by Lock who proceeded to nibble her ear.

“If it’s any consolation." Lock said as he prodded Rainbows puckered hole with his equine tool.

“I don’t really think I’m ready to be a dad anyway, regardless what form I take.” he said as he pressed inwards making Rainbow gasp.

“Besides, what was that you said about giving Beorn more siblings, little mare?” He whispered in her ear.

Rainbow only murred in pleasure as her husband proceeded to enter her next while asking.

"So are you really his mare now Dashie?"

"Of course not ya big doof!" She said with a grin as they proceeded to pound her in rhythm.

Both studs jackhammered into the pegasus as she screamed in pleasure. Lock glanced to his side and saw Applejack digging into into her marehood and suckling on her breast at the steamy spectacle.

“We’ll be with you in a moment, my dear.” He said as he and Wulfric continued to pound away at Rainbow dash.

"He’s looking at you.” Lock said into Rainbow’s ear as he thrusted up in her ass.

"He’s wants you just as much as you need him.” he whispered as he groped her breasts and pinched his nipples.

"I may be extra, but you’re his mare until the end,” Lock said as he rubbed her breasts causing milk to leak out.

“Tell him what you want him to do."

Rainbow leaned forward just enough to wrap her arms around her husband and looked into his eyes saying.

"Wulfric honey?"

"Yes my love?"

"I want another baby~."

Wulfric grinned as he proceeded to get more rough with his thrusts as she held on tight and even proceeded to bite down on his shoulder.

"Grrr that's my girl!~" Wulfric growled before she looked up to kiss him.

“Ngh! Shit her ass is tight, I’m almost there.” Lock grunted.

Wulfric began to slow down just as they were about to finish and in a commanding voice that aroused Rainbow he said.

"Beg for it~."

Rainbow grinned at this side of her husband and loved when he became bossy, especially when they were in bed.

"Please Wulfric! Get me pregnant again~!!"

Within moments, Rainbow Dash gasped with eyes wide open as both her partners filled her to the brim with seed and she was loving every second of it.

"Lock, there is something you should know." Wulfric said after catching his breath.

"The day my clan rescued Rainbow and Applejack, they were almost broken."

At first Lock didn't understand and listened while pulling out of Rainbow.

"After they were treated for their injuries, the shamans discovered there were some lasting effects. Whenever they get aroused, they sometimes lose control and can't help themselves so if my clan came a day later then..."

Wulfric stopped not wanting to think about the consequences before Applejack kissed him.

"Shhh don't think about it sugarcube."

Lock was silent for a moment as he thought about what Wulfric told him and got an idea.

He coated his hands in Hellfire making Wulfric curious.

"What are you doing?" The king inquired.

“Your tale is a little similar to what I’ve been dealing with in my reality,” Lock said as he gently placed a hand on each mare.

“I don’t wish to bring up bad memories, but in my reality Dainn had the same sick collar system as I’m sure this worlds Dainn did. Most of the mares who were obedient or broken beyond measure had suffered greatly and Flash and I believed they were unable to bounce back,” Lock explained as the flame covered their heads.

“But then I realized something, if my Hellfire can heal wounds and treat the week, why not also use it to heal the mind?” He said as Applejack and Rainbow suddenly felt a calming sense in their minds.

“Ever since I discovered my Hellfire’s capabilities I used it to cleanse each mare and female I came across, that includes any stallions who were brainwashed.” Lock lifted his hands and the flame on each mare extinguished as Lock fell backwards panting heavily.

“It…takes a lot…out of me…but the results were…well worth it. Since now every mare I’ve cleansed is living without broken minds our tortured souls.” Lock said as he glanced up at Wulfric who was tearing up.

“And now your wives have been cleansed of any lingering curse Dainn inflicted upon them.” he said with a weak but warm smile.

"Mmm I don't know." Said Applejack spreading her legs.

"I'm still pretty aroused here~."

“I didn’t say you wouldn’t be aroused anymore.” Lock said he sat back up.

“Just that your minds will be more clear so basically saying,” Lock said glancing at Wulfric.

“Go as wild as you want with no worries.” he said with a somewhat sinister grin.

Applejack wasted to time in straddling him as he became aroused once more.

"Mmm~. Mind filling the front this time~?"

“You sure?” Lock said as he positioned himself.

"It's only fair sugarcu-OOH!!" Her words were cut short by her husbands surprise entry into her flank as he proceeded to ram her.

"Grrr no way you're leaving me out this time!!" Wulfric growled while pulling her mane in a rather rough manner.

“Well who am I to refuse such a lovely offer from a lovely lady?” Lock smirked as he pounded up into her snatch making her cry out more in pleasure.

“I can see why Wulfric loves you so much, Applejack,” Lock said as he grabbed both her breasts and thrusted inside her along with Wulfric.

“You're as gorgeous as any mare I’ve met and you feel so good to the touch, inside and out.” he said as he latched on to one of her nipples.

"And she's not afraid to get rough!" Wulfric added while pulling her mane and smacking her right on the cutie mark.

"Mmm love you to sweetie~" The farm mare murred as she leaned back to kiss her beloved.

Lock responded in kind by snaking his hand down and repeating what he did before by rubbing and flicking her clit making her yelp and cry out in pure ecstasy. Lock and Wulfric continued to plow the farm mare, making her cum may times to the point that the bedsheets below him were stained with her juices, she even switched from kissing him and Wulfric, to his surprise with each time their tongues battling for supremacy. Soon Lock and Wulfric felt a familiar tension in their groins making him look deep in Applejacks glazed eyes.

“Ngh, I’m close,” Lock grunted as his thrusts became quicker.

“Where do you want it?” He asked.

"Mmm inside, both of you!!~" She squealed while clutching onto him. Applejack screamed at the top of her lungs as both her entrances were filled to the brim, her entire body was limp and her lungs were practically out of air.

"Oh star apples..." she huffed before they laid her on the bed to rest.

Lock sighed as he laid there panting glancing at the mare to his side. As Lock glanced away to look at the ceiling, he saw in the corner of his eye a dim glow but when he looked all he saw was still Applejack so he brushed it off as his imagination.

“Never thought I’d have sex twice in one night,” Lock said as he pulled himself up and sat on the edge of the bed.

“This Alicorn form of mine sure is new change of pace, that’s for sure,” he said examining his equine body.

"Night's not over yet big boy~." Said Rainbow Dash as she dangled her breasts over him.

"How's about a protein shake?"

“Jeez, I’m willing to bet this is some old wet dream of yours to mate with an Alicorn?” Lock said as he crawled over to Rainbow Dash until he was on top of her again.

"Nah. I just like flaunting what I got." She boasted before feeling him latch onto her right breast.

"How about you hon? Care for some apple milkshake?" The farm mare offered her husband by turning to her side with her chest still exposed. Wulfric happily obliged as he pinned her to the bed and bit down on her right breast.

"My aren't we greedy~?"

“He’s your husband,” Lock teased as he looked down at Rainbow.

“Now then, little mare, would you like to continue where we left off last?” He purred as his tool rubbed against her marehood.

"Mmm sorry stud, I'm spent but you can still have a drink~."

“Eh, fair enough,” Lock shrugged as he went back to drinking her milk. As Lock suckled and bit each of her nipples, Rainbow moaned and hugged his head deeper into her bosoms. However once again Lock a glimpse of a dim glow in the corner of his eye but he brushed it off as his imagination again, later he seemed to have sucked out the last of her milk as he released her nipple and gave her one last passionate kiss before breaking away and smiling while looking into her eyes

“I believe the drink bar has closed for the night.” Lock said as he booped her muzzle making her giggle.

"How about another kiss?" Rainbow winked while pointing to her cutie mark.

As Lock put his jacket on he smirked and smacked her cutie mark earning a yelp of surprise but soon had her lips stolen by his as he gave her flank one last rub and a squeeze as he broke away.

“Goodnight, Skittles,” Lock said with a wink as he walked towards the hallway door.

"Skittles?"

Meanwhile

Unaware of the events unfolding at the castle, a small detachment of royal guards was sent to watch over the cadets during their survival training.

“This is ridiculous!” Shrieked one of the recruits who was none other than Top Notch. “Why must I degrade myself by dirtying myself in this horrible place. It’s no thanks to that winged ape, he should have sided with me and instead he is the reason I’m stuck with you pathetic lot!” He snapped at the other pony and Caribou recruits around him.

“Aw shut it, Top Notch!” One of the recruits spat.

“It’s your own fault for not keeping that muzzle of yours shut in the first place!”

“Yeah,” another adds.

“You should know by now that Lord Wulfric is a benevolent king and he and his clan are our allies. That’s no reason for you to call Prince Beorn such things as you did!”

“Honestly though, Sir Dimitri should not have held himself back and put that animal down in the dirt where he belongs,” Top Notch huffed irritated.

"Hey! Save your whinging for when you're old and fat!" Yelled one of the guards as they began to make camp.

"We'll rest here tonight, tomorrow you forage for food."

“Hmph! Hey you there!” Top Notch said pointing at a young buck recruit.

“Make yourself useful and make my tent for me!”

The buck scoffed and ignored the command while pitching his own tent.

"You'll find no servants here cadet. Out here, you pull your own weight."

Top Notch huffed in utter disappointment and irritation as he struggled to pitch up his tent, which resulted in him smacking himself in the head many times much to the other recruits amusement.

“How long you think he’ll last in this training?” One of the colts asks a buck.

"I give him five minutes." The buck replied when they noticed Prince Imperius had already pitched his tent while Beorn leaned himself against a tree after starting a fire.

"Cadet Beorn! Where is your tent?" Shouted the second guard.

"I prefer to sleep out in the open sir. Less chances for animals to sneak up on me."

“Huh, I never thought of it that way,” one of the pony cadets said as he sat beside Beorn.

“Did you always do stuff like this with King Wulfirc?”

"Only when he took me hunting. He never brought me or my sister with him when our moms went though." He replied scratching his head in confusion.

"Weird right?"

“I guess, but man that Dimitri human,” the colt said.

“He sure knows his stuff, I was surprised when you were actually able to best him in combat.”

“Yeah,” a buck recruit said as he sat on the other side.

“No offense Prince Beorn, but I thought it was Sir Dimitri who was to be victorious. He certainly gave you a run for your bits but you managed to come out on top anyway.”

"Mmm....I don't consider that a victory." Beorn grumbled while warming his hands.

“Why not? You broke his sword and disarmed him as per the rules stated.” the buck said tilting his head.

"Did you think i'd stop if my father hadn't intervened?"

The cadets became silent after hearing hus question and realized what might have happened during that fight.

“Oh…well I mean I’m sure Sir Dimitri didn’t take it personally." the colt said placing a hand on his shoulder.

“Yeah, Sir Dimitri seemed to be very supportive of you despite everything. He even offered to help train you which is pretty cool,” the buck said.

“Though one thing kinda makes me curious, what was up with how his hands suddenly caught on fire?”

“Oh yeah, that’s some pretty cool magic he’s able to use. I wonder if there’s a spell book somewhere that can teach something like that?” The colt wondered.

"Alright story time's over." Said their drill instructor with a firm tone.

"Since you like being outdoors cadet beorn, you can take first watch."

"Yes sir."

"And somepony help Top Notch before he strangles himself!"

All the recruits looked to Top Notch and saw he had constricted himself in his tent and heard muffled yelps. Two of them groaned as they went over to help the poor noble colt as Beorn starred at his camp fire. His mind trailed back to the spar he had with Lock and he looked at his hands, remembering each blow he took on his sword and body Lock landed on him.

“When next we spar and you have better control of your berserker’s soul, you’ll be the one on the ground!” Lock’s words echoed in his mind.

As the hour grew late, Beorn slept soundly against the tree while crickets and other creatures sang their songs into the night air yet despite the calm atmosphere, the young prince kept a hunting knife hidden under his cloak and listened carefully to every sound coming from the forest.

CRACK

Beorns ears twitched at the sound of a twig but he did not flinch nor open his eyes for fear of alerting who or whatever was approaching.

“Look, there they are…just as master Blueblood said.”

“Look at them, so peaceful and content. Shame we have to kill most of them.”

“Just remember the mission, capture the son of the sun whore and slice the half breed son of a slut’s neck.”

“And the guards?”

“They die too, especially the filthy Caribou guards.”

“Hey, there’s some cute mare and doe recruits here. What do you say we take some back with us for some fun after we succeed~? That doe’s got a nice rack.”

“You know that doesn’t sound half bad, grab that young mare over there. She’s got an ass I could buck for days~”

Beorn gripped his knife rightly as he sensed his assailants draw nearer.

“Let’s just gut him and be done with it, the sooner we’re finished hear the sooner we can regroup with the others after they captured that moon brat and killed the bastard King’s daughter.”

The moment the first assassin turned the prince over, the knife sprang out from the cloak and into his chest, as he looked up he saw the icy cold glare of a born killer before slipping off the blade and onto the ground.

"INTRUDERS!!" Beorn screamed alerting the whole camp before kicking the second one into his fire pit.

The intruder in the fire screamed before rolling off, almost immediately the rest of the camp woke up and was startled by the number of attackers surrounding them. Everyone in the camp then went in a frenzy of brandishing their weapons and fighting amongst each other. Three of the intruders charged at Beorn since he was one of their main objectives, Beorn shot to his feet and took his stance as they came at him from all sides

“Death to the son of the false king!” One of the intruders cries as he thrusts his sword.

“Glory to the true king Blueblood!” The other shouts swinging his sword.

"Defend the prince!!" Shouted the royal guards as they charged forward to defend Beorn while a few others protected Imperius.

As the fighting grew more tense, Top Notch cowered in fear and tried to crawl away from the battle as he listened to the sounds around him.

“And just where do you think you’re going?”

Top Notch flinched as he looked up to see a stallion bandit look down at him with an evil smirk.

“P-please…show mercy!” Top Notch pleaded.

“No mercy to those who serve the bitch Princesses.” the stallion mocked as he raised his weapon. The young noble thought for sure that this would be his end and prepared for the worst.

SHINK!!

Blood splattered on the colts face yet it wasn't his and after blinking a few times he saw the tip of a spear sticking out from the bandits chest.

Horrified, Top Notch watched the bandit fall and behind him was Imperius who had his arm out indicating he was the one who threw it. The prince smirked as he went back to fighting the other bandits as Top Notch just sat there.

“He…saved me?” He muttered. Top Notch looked down at his hands as a feeling of adrenaline bursted through his soul as he stood up and brandished his sword.

“THANK YOU MY PRINCE!!” Top Notch cried as he started fighting like a mad colt against the surprised bandits.

"RETREAT!! RETREAAT!!" One of them shouted as they began to run for their lives with some being captured in their escape.

As the cowards ran for their lives the prisoners were rounded up and brought to the center, each struggling to free themselves after being bound.

“Judging by the sigil on their cloaks, they were sent by Blueblood,” a guard sneers after seeing the mark on one of their daggers.

“Seems like they were after Prince Imperius and Prince Beorn.” another said.

“Heh, do what you will with us, even if we failed the others surely will succeed in our favor.” one of the bandits snorts.

“The hell do you mean, bastard?” A recruit demands.

“We were supposed to kill the false king’s son and take the sun bitches brat to Lord Blueblood dead or alive, meanwhile the same can be said for the halfbreed little bitch and the moon bitch’s brat. By now they probably killed the half breed and have taken the other so I’d say it’s still our victory.” the other bandit boasts.

"Why does blueblood want prince imperius?" Asked one of the recruits while the prisoner grinned.

"I ain't tellin' you nothin'. "

Beorn however was not as patient as the others, especially since he heard his sister was in danger. The prince marched over to the group of bandits with his dagger and plunged it deep into his shoulder without warning.

“AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!! YOU BUCKER!” The bandit cried in agony.

"This can go two ways." He said coldly while staring into the prisoners eyes.

"You can cooperate and live or you can die slow and I feed you to my fathers wolves."

Beorn violently twisted the knife as it made a crunching sound causing the prisoner to scream louder while the others watched. Some of the officers were rather impressed at his interrogation skills.

“AAAAAAAAHHHHH, OK OK I’LL TALK!" The bsndit screamed, no longer able to bare the pain.

"LORD BLUEBLOOD WANTED TO TAKE THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS SO HE COULD MANIPULATE THEM INTO TURNING AGAINST THE CROWN!"

"And?" Beorn replied while slowly moving the knife around.

"HE ALSO WANTED US TO KILL THE KING OF THE NORTH’S CHILDREN TO SEND A MESSAGE THAT ALL FILTHY CARIBOU SHALL MEET THE SAME FATE SHOULD ANYPONY OPPOSE!” The bandit cried.

“Beorn, our sisters!” Imperius said.

"We have to get back to the castle immediately!”

"No need." Replied one of the guards dragging in another prisoner.

"Just got word from the castle. Seems their little friends messed up."

“What?!” The other bandit yelps.

“But our plan was foolproof! How did they fail?!”

"You underestimated us." Beorn replied before ripping out his knife.

"AGH!! You sick bastard!! What else can you expect from the son of a whore!!!" The bandit shouted making the prince freeze for a moment and a sense of bloodlust filled the air.

"....say that again?"

“You heard me, half breed!” The bandit mocks.

“I’m surprised your slut of a mother doesn’t spread her legs to any stallion she comes across, guess I shouldn’t be surprised she chose a filthy Caribou since Dainn must’ve given it to her good enough for her to be addicted to Caribou cock! Hell I bet you're actually HIS son."

The bandits laughed along with their comrade while the cadets looked at Beorn who seemed to be in a trance. Unable to hold back his anger, the prince lashed out and sliced open the bandits throat, spewing blood onto his face making the others freeze up with fear.

“BEORN STOP!” one of the guards yelled but it was too late. Before anyone could react Beorn lunged at the group with a roar of pure rage. All could only watch in horror as he literally ripped and tore through the bandits leaving a bloody mess in his wake while they screamed and cried out in agony.

“SIR WHAT DO WE DO?!” the gaurd asks his superior erratically.

“KING WULFRIC IS NOT HERE TO CALM HIM DOWN!”

No longer able to watch, Imperius grappled Beorn from behind and proceeded to wrestle him to the ground.

"Beorn you need to calm down!! Guys help me!"

"RRAAAGH!!"

All the recruits, even Top Notch, swarmed Beorn and tackled him to the ground as he struggled to push them all off while still screaming bloody murder.

“That’s enough, Beorn! It’s over, they're not worth it!” A recruit said while wrestling the dagger out of his grip.

“Prince Beorn please! Don’t make us hurt you!” A buck pleads.

“I am sorry Beorn!” Top Notch said.

“It was wrong of me to say such things about you and your father, do not let what they say ring true!”

Beorn struggled furiously against his comrades until his roars slowly turned into sobs. He was crying.

"I hate it..." he cried.

"I hate when they bring up my family's past...when they insult my mother...WHEN THEY SAY I'M REALLY THE SON OF THAT BASTARD DAINN!!"

His tears came flooding as they finally let him up when one of the cadets noticed that the remaining bandits were alive, bruised and beaten to a pulp but alive.

Everyone saw the young Caribou prince sob his heart out and looked at him with pity, no one could say anything for they did not know what to say until they heard someone speak.

“So this is where I sensed that bloodlust.”

Everyone looked around to see the source of the voice until they noticed a shadow from the light of the moon. When they looked up they saw a hooded figure standing on the branch looking down at them.

"Who's there?!" Imperius shouted at the figure.

"If you're here to fight then I suggest you leave..."

The figure merely giggled femininely as it seemed to glide down to the ground. The solders and recruits held up, their gaurd until the figure removed its hood revealing a female changeling as she smiled innocently at them.

“A changeling?” One of the recruits wonders.

“What’s a changeling doing all the way out here?” Another wonders.

Imperius steps towards the young changeling girl as the guards try to follow him but he raises his hands calling them off.

“Who are you? If I may ask.” Imperius questions.

"I am Crysta. Daughter of Queen Chrysalis." She replied catching everyone off guard.

"The queens daughter?!?" A guard shouted frantically before saluting.

“My lady Crysta, it is an honor to meet you!” Another said also saluting.

“But I must ask why are you all the way out here away from your home?”

"Well you see. My mother heard there was trouble so she sent me though..." she paused looking at the beaten thugs.

“These bandits were attempting to foalnap Prince Imperius and kill Prince Beorn,” the gaurd explains.

“The same can be said for Princess Selene and Princess Apple Jewel but they were saved by King Wulfric and Dimitri Lockdrom,” he said earning her interest at the unknown name.

"Dimitri?" She asked curiously

“Oh yes,” Imperius said.

“Dimitri Lockdrom, believe it or not, is a human from an alternate Equestria. He arrived here a week ago from the mirror that resides in the Crystal Empire,” he said shocking Crysta.

"How interesting. I should meet this...human but first i'm here to see if I can help."

Crysta walked over to Beorn who was on his knees unable to look at anyone in the eye as small tears still trickled from his face. Crysta kneeled down to Beorn’s level but he still refused to look up.

"I sense you're in great pain." She said with pity making him look at her.

“I’m…I’m not the son of Dainn,” Beorn said with pain in his eyes.

“I’m the son of Wulfric, so why must others insult me and my family.”

"Pay them no mind. You know who you are." She said with kindness while helping him to his feet.

"My mother said I should get to know you and I must say you have a truly kind heart."

“Am I though?” Beorn wondered.

“This is the second time I let my anger get the better of me and I almost endangered my comrades since my father wasn’t here. The first time is when I’m almost killed Lock and o probably would have had my father not interfered. Those bandits…they said such awful things about my mother, as if she’s been through enough and she still is treated so poorly. Why was I born like this? I never asked to become a berserker…”

"The fact that you show remorse proves your kindness. I'd expect no less from my future husband."

Everything became quiet save for the crickets chirping, then in unison all shouted.

"WHAAAAAAAAAT?!?"

“Wh-yo-I-WHAT?!?” Beorn yelped stumbling backwards.

“F-F-Future husband?! Since when?!“

"My mother said she made the arrangements. She should be arriving at the castle tomorrow."

“But I wasn’t told if this!” Beorn defends.

“Does my father even know?! Besides we don’t even have time for marriage, besides the fact I don’t even know you!”

Crysta only laughed at her fiancè's shocked expression while the rest of the group began to applaud.

"Congrats cadet!" Shouted one of the officers over the applause.

"Wait! Come on guys! Imperius help me out here!"

“You know what they say, Beorn, love comes in all shapes and sizes. Just ask my sister, even if she’s too stubborn to admit it.” Imperius said confusing his friend as he casually walked back to his tent.

"Alright! Everyone settle down." The instructor shouted as the applause stopped.

"Your training is still in effect until we get word from the castle so back to your tents."

The recruits nodded and returned to their tents as the guards disposed of the bodies and kept a close watch on the bandits still alive. Beorn reluctantly sat back down against the tree he was originally Sleeping against with Crysta following suit and leaning against him making the young buck blush but sigh since he couldn’t turn her away.

Father, just what have you gotten me mixed up in to? Beorn thought to himself.

End.

A Wild Night Part 3

“AAACHOO!” Wulfric sneezed but then went back to sleep. Meanwhile Applejack was laying on top of him while Rainbow dash was dry humping her pillow while having a wet dream of him and Lock still going at it with her.

As for Dimitri he had been sitting on the roof of the tallest tower, still in his Alicorn form, gazing at the stars since he was left to his own thoughts. However not only was he stargazing he too, like Crysta, sensed Beorn’s bloodlust which made him concerned. However he was relieved he didn’t have to retrieve Wulfric to put a stop to Beorn’s frenzy since his fellow recruits and Imperius were there to calm him down.

“Guess things turned out for the better,” Lock said to himself as he stood up. “But for them to go after Beorn and Imperius as well, just what the hell are you planning, Blueblood?”

Feeling the fatigue from his session catch up to him, Lock let out a yawn as he stretched his arms and wings and flew back to the window and inside. As Lock walked down the halls he spot a few thestrals here and there all starring at Lock in absolute shock, only because of his Alicorn form but he ignored their stares. Lock glanced down at his new body and couldn’t help but smirk a little more at how cool it was to be something that wasn’t known to Equestria before, a male Alicorn.

“My mane and tail do look pretty bad ass since it mimics a flame,” Lock said as he noticed a mirror on the wall and saw his Alicorn form. His crimson red fur and wings, his long red and orange mane and tail moving on it’s own like an open flame, his strong jaw line muzzle, and deep amber eyes made him look like a powerful monarch himself.

“I could get used to this,” he said while rubbing his chin.

“Oh what the hell, I’ll keep this form for a while,” he shrugged on his new decision and continued his trek to his room when he sensed a few presences behind him making him look over his shoulder. All he saw were a few thestrals standing at attention as they glanced at him every so often still in shock they were in the presence of a male Alicorn The crimson red Alicorn rolled his eyes and continued walking brushing the presence he felt off as his imagination.

Once he arrived at his bedroom door he was about to reach for the doorknob when he heard something strange. Arching a brow as he leaned forward and pressed his ear against the door, Lock could hear what sounded like someone moaning. He then heard what sounded like his name which made him more curious that he slowly opened the door to peek inside. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary for his guest room, regular furniture here and there and his bed included, except he saw someone laying on the bed. Lock poked his head a little further in and what he saw shocked him to his very core. Laying on his bed, pleasuring herself, was Selene and she had her night gown raised up to he neck as she groped her breast and was rubbing her marehood. Look couldn’t tear himself away from looking as he hid behind the door and Selene didn’t seem to noticed since she had her head arched back so she was looking away from the door.

“What…the hell?” Lock muttered quietly.

Lock figured the princess liked him but had no idea just how much but because she was still young he did not want to do anything risky and looked for another room.

“That’s…gonna take some time to forget,” Lock mumbled as he walked down the hallway. “I can only picture how awkward it’s gonna be now.”

As Lock looked for another room, he couldn’t help but feel the same presences behind him making him turn his head only to see nothing. Quirking a brow, he chose to ignore it again as he continued his search for a vacant room. Not knowing which room is free or not, Lock decided to ask for help and walked towards a thestral maid who gasped as she looked up to the crimson red Alicorn.

“Evening, ma’am,” Lock greets earning a shudder from her at the sound of his voice.

“I was wondering if maybe you could direct me to a vacant room? Mine’s…unavailable at the moment so I’d like to move to somewhere free.”

"Oh well..." she paused looking at his physique.

"My room's free."

“Uh…” Lock said as the mare gave him bedroom eyes.

“I’m flattered, but it’s late and I should really find a place to sleep,” he said as he turned around only to be met with more thestral mares, some maids and some night guards all giving him bedroom eyes.

“Um…good evening?” Lock said sheepishly.

"Skulking around the castle at night? Naughty boy~." Said one of the female guards.

"And without taking a bath too." Replied one of the maids.

Lock was confused at first but then lifted his arm a bit and sniffed, only to realize he still had the stench of sex lingering making him smile sheepishly.

“Now ladies,” Lock said backing away raising his hands.

“I’m not one to lie when I say you all are quite the lookers, but I’m afraid I must insist I find a place a sleep.” Lock soon felt a pair of arms wrap around him making him tense up a bit as the maid behind him pressed her breasts against his back as she leaned up to his ear and licked it seductively.

"Like I said, my rooms free~." She flirted snaking her hand towards his pants.

As the mares in front of him started to advance others purposely leaned forward for a clear view of their chest, Lock knew he couldn’t stick around so he unfurled his wings making the thestral maid jump back, then jumped in the air with a flap and flipped over the group making a dash down the hall.

“Hate to cut this short, but I’ve got a bed to find!” The crimson red Alicorn said and began sprinting down the hall.

Much to Lock’s ire, the mares did not let him be as he hoped and they were now all on the chase for him. Lock rolled his eyes as he continued his spring down the hallways of the castle making one sharp turn after the next, he tried to escape his pursuers but they were driven to have a go at him, especially since he was a powerful looking stud of an Alicorn. Soon Lock saw at the end of the hallway a door that hopefully led to the outside so he picked up the pace so he could take to the skies once outside. Just as he was about slow down, the door opened and Celestia came with a tired look in her eye while a glass of water in her hand wearing nothing but a nightgown.

Oh shit! Lock thought as he came grinding halt and spread his wings to help his slow himself. As soon as he was able to stop, he opened his eyes and saw Celestia look up at him with the widest eyes he’d ever seen on anyone as she gazed up into his amber eyes.

“Uh…hey Celestia,” Lock said with a sheepish smile.

Before Celestia could respond Lock could hear his pursuers catching up to him so he had to act fast.

“So sorry in advance!” He’s said frantically before grabbing Celestia by the arms and lifting her up to placed her to the side as he dashed through the door leaving her in a very bewildered state.

“I’ll explain everything tomorrow!” Lock called out as he ran outside and took to the skies.

Celestia sighed as he faded out of view and stepped out to meet the stampeding maids.

“Princess Celestia!” One of the thestral mares said as the guards saluted and the maids curtsied.

“So sorry to disturb you, your highness, but did you see a hun- I mean a crimson red Alicorn with a flaming mane and tail run through here?” She asks blushing a little.

"No girls, I haven't." She lied as they whined in defeat.

"Darn. We were so close too."

As the mares all sighed and walked away, Celestia turned to return to her chambers but then saw a crimson red feather float down in front of her. She grasped the feather and examined it and saw a small message along the feather.

I owe you one…

~L

"Indeed." She said while opening the door to her chambers to find her husband; Sir Marshall making out with Luna in bed.

While Celestia joined her sister and husband for some fun, Lock flew up to the cliff that overlooked the entire city. He touched down and walked to the edge of the cliff and sat down trying to catch his breath.

“Jeez, as if the Heat was bad enough,” Lock sighed as he looked at his hands.

“This new form of mine is cool and all but it’s more of a double edged sword in these cases.”

As Lock looked to the sky and at the stars, he couldn’t help reminisce of his reality. He wondered how Flash and the others were doing without him against Dainn. True his barrier kept the Kingdom of Equestria from being taken again, along with the Crystal Empire, but the other kingdoms were still suffering by the hands of the other Overlords.

“I’d like to return,” Lock said to himself.

“But I feel like I should stick around a little longer, at least until Wulfric and the others gain a proper foothold against Blueblood. Not to mention the looming and uneasy feeling I felt when I was in the Crystal Empire. Just what could possibly have been the cause of such dark power?” He wondered.

As Lock stood up he suddenly felt a presence behind him, a presence he knew all too well which made him furrow his brows and clench his fists.

“I was wondering when you’d show up,” Lock said as he turned around.

“Took you this long to contact me, huh?”

Standing in front of Lock was a tall figure wearing a trench coat, his body had small embers along his body similar to Lock and he had a hood on that covered his face in shadow with the exception of a par of glowing red eyes. The figure said nothing as it starred at Lock making him quirk a brow.

“Have you nothing to say to me…Lucifer?” Lock asks.

“I was merely taking in this…new form of yours,” The Devil said as he circled Lock.

“I must say, of all the creatures you have the ability to transform into, it’s a little surprising you chose the form of an Alicorn.”

“Spare me the lecture, Lucifer, why did you take so long to show up?” Lock asked.

“It’s your own fault, you know,” Lucifer said crossing his arms.

"One minute you were all happy and triumphant over your victory with Flash against the Overlord and then the next thing I know you’re dragged to this strange place.”

“In case you haven’t noticed it’s still Equestria and get this, we’re 10 years in the future and the Dainn from this reality is dead by the hand of a one Wulfric Warborn,” Lock said surprising The Devil.

“Is that right? I suppose that explains why I can sense both Pony and Caribou souls in the area. Warborn…I believe I’ve heard of that name,” Lucifer said scratching his chin.

“Wait what? You know Wulfric?” Lock asked curiously.

“Well…yes and no,” Lucifer answers.

“Believe it or not but the Warborn Clan existed in our reality as well.”

Unbeknownst to the two, a certain rainbow maned pegasus was hiding behind a cloud eavesdropping after wanting to go for a mid night fly and saw Lock fly up to the cliff. Her original plan was to sneak up on him and go another round but stopped when she saw Lucifer and was shocked at what she was hearing and decided to stay hidden.

“Existed, what happened to them?”

He sighed as he walked over to the edge to gaze out into the city.

“You did not know this since it happened before I brought you to Equestria, but a little over a month after Dainn invaded the Warborn Clan tried to thwart the invasion by attempting to fight back against his army. They too, like the clan of this world, were led by a Wulfric Warborn who disagreed with Dainn’s ideals and rebelled. However, his resistance were crushed by the might of the Overlords and were annihilated in a mere span of 2 weeks. During the final hours Wulfric’s feeble rebellion, it was only him and a small band of his best warriors. Wulfric fought to the last strength of his soul until he was the only surviving Warborn left.”

Lucifer then used his power to warp the area around him and Lock, dragging Rainbow along with them but she still kept hidden on her cloud as she was met with a horrendous sight. It was raining, there were bodies everywhere that had the Warborn sigil on their armor. There was Caribou soldiers surrounding a very wounded Wulfric as one of his antlers was torn off and he was panting heavily and carrying an axe and sword but the sword’s blade was broken off. Facing Wulfric were seven hooded armored Caribou and in front of them was the Tyrant King himself. Wulfric growled as he ignored the pain from his wounds and the arrows sticking from his back as he glared daggers at Dainn who simply scoffed at the state of the chieftain.

“Look at you,” Dainn said.

“A buck with no army, no influence, no hope. If you had simply kept your place I’m sure I would have made an exception allowing you in my inner circle.”

“Buck you!” Past Wulfric spat.

“You disgrace the gods with your sick ideals! We were never supposed to come here! The ponies did nothing wrong!”

“That is where you’re wrong,” Dainn countered.

“This land is under the tyranny of the whores who call themselves royalty. I have come to purge this land and free our fellow males so that true order can be established. You could even say I am doing what the gods had intended in the first place.”

“BY SUBJUGATING THEM TO SLAVERY?!” Past Wulfric roars as he charged at Dainn while cleaving through many of his minions. However one of the armored hooded figures steps forward and raises his hand to fire a spear from his hand. The spear goes flying at Wulfric as it skewers his shoulder making him scream out in pain as he fell to the ground making Rainbow gasp silently in utter horror.

“They deserve to be slaves.” Dainn said calmly as he walked over to the fallen chieftain.

“I will have my armies take more of this land until the whole world is under my control. I must admit, you have shown great courage for how long you have lasted against me and my loyal Overlords. So as a gesture of good faith I offer you this one last time,” he said reaching out to Wulfric.

“Join me in my crusade and live like a true chieftain.” Past Wulfric only glared at Dainn as he spat blood at his hooves with defiance in his eyes.

“A pity,” he said as he drew his sword.

“Then I sentence you to die, do you have any final words?”

“Valhalla…waits for me. And you shall soon…meet the end…you deserve…” Past Wulfric wheezed.

Lock and Rainbow could say nothing as Dainn plunged his sword through his heart, ending the last of the Warborn blood. The world around them warped again as they were back in the cliff. Lock could only pinch the bridge of his nose as he struggled to cope with what he had just saw, meanwhile Rainbow was trembling and forced herself not to cry out when she saw her husband get executed even though it wasn’t the Wulfric who was alive and well.

“Damn that Dainn…” Lock sneered.

“I would’ve at least liked to meet my worlds Wulfric, then I wouldn’t have to resort to killing all the Caribou I’ve come across.

“He was a fine warrior, I’m sure he would’ve become a valued ally if he were still around.”

Having grown bored with the brief history lesson, Lucifer decided to switch to a more recent memory to see what his vessel had been up to.

“YES YES YES!!!” Cried Rainbow as she was being plowed by Lock and her husband.

“BUCK ME HARDER!!! FILL ME UP AND KEEP BUCKING ME!!!”

Lock panicked and waved his hands as the memory faded as he blushed through his crimson red fur along with Rainbow who desperately tried to keep her wings from sprinting out.

“Damnit Lucifer!” Lock snapped with a red blush on his cheeks.

“How exactly was I to know you had already bedded a mare? And from the looks of it not just one but two,” Lucifer mocked with a smug grin as they argued.

“Shut it! What I do is my business!"

“Dimitri,” Lucifer said in a serious tone.

“What exactly are you doing?”

“What do you mean?”

“Playing coy? Very well, then I’ll be more specific, what are you doing here and not trying to return to your reality?” Lock was silent for a moment and looked away.

“I…I just thought I’d help out a bit is all,” Lock said.

“Help out? Does that include helping out these people fight a war when you’re already in the middle of one? Does this helping out also include that dark energy I can sense from even here? Or perhaps you helping out involves bedding as many mares in this reality before you’ve had your fun?” Lucifer lectures making Lock glare at him.

“Don’t you dare try to use anyone here against me! What happened between me and this worlds Rainbow and Applejack was just a one time thing!” Lock shot back hurting Rainbows feelings a little.

“Oh really? Then you’re saying you aren’t attached to anyone here?” Lucifer questions.

“What are you implying?” Lock asks.

“It seems to me these mares and their husband have already rubbed off on you in more ways than one,” Lucifer said.

“Perhaps too much that you’re possibly thinking of staying here and abandoning your mission.”

“That’s enough!” Lock barked.

“I have not forgotten my mission, not in the slightest! As soon as I am done with my business here in this reality I will return and finish what I started against Dainn! And let me make something perfectly clear to you,” He said getting in his face.

“I made an oath to take Dainn’s life and drag his screaming soul to you. I have not grown attached to anyone or anything here and I don’t plan to! These ponies are nothing but strangers to me as I am to them. They’ll forget about me as soon as I’m gone, so who cares if I make a few memories here and there!” Lock spat. His words hurt Rainbow’s heart as she began to tear up a little.

“Hmm, are you sure they are strangers? You seemed to be quite fond of each other?” Lucifer shot back making him completely lose his temper.

“I TOLD YOU TO SHUT UP! THEY MEAN NOTHING TO ME, YOU HEAR ME?! NOTHING!”

Lucifer said nothing and looked to the side where Rainbow Dash was hiding.

“It seems we have a peeping pony,” He said while stepping back.

Lock arched a brow and looked to where he had been staring and saw the cloud and Rainbow hiding behind. His eyes widened as she had tears streaming down her face and she jumped down and marched over to Lock.

“Rainbow…wait please,” Lock begged as he backed away with his hands held up.

"You...JERK!!" The pegasus roared in anger with a hand raised.

SLAP!!!

"So it was just a one time thing huh?!?" She screamed furiously while holding her stomach.

"That why you healed my scar? Hoping to knock me up before leaving?!?"

“N-No! I swear! I never even thought of doing that to you or Wulfirc!” Lock pleads before snapping back.

“Besides, while we’re even on the subject, why the hell do you care anyway?! You obviously heard what I said and what I say is true! Sooner or later I’m gonna leave and you’ll all forget about me, so why bother crying over someone who’ll only be just a memory in a month or two?!”

"So you just buck "a complete stranger" for kicks then?!?" Rainbow shot back.

“Hell no! You’re the one who invited me to do it in the first place! I only do with the one I…” Lock trials off and looks away unable to look her in the eye.

“…the one I…care for a great deal…” he said as he reverted back to his human form and even retracting his wings into his body.

“I didn’t want to say anything, especially after the first time, but I thought that after our time together I thought maybe there could be something between the 4 of us. But then I realized…I’m not from this reality. I came here on accident and I have to return soon so I figured I stick around and help out. I never expected to mate with you and Applejack, especially since you’re married to Wulfric.” Lock then reaches into his shirt and pulls out what looked like a necklace with tags on them.

“But look at me now…doing the same disgusting thing as my shitty bastard of an old man, fucking someone I barely know and ditching them whenever backed into a corner,” he said glaring at the tags but then chuckled.

“Well Dad looks like you can be proud of me for something after all, I’m just like you for what you did to Mom. Guess the apple really doesn’t fall too far from the god damn tree…”

Rainbow began to calm down and saw how he despised looking at those tags and noticed how sad he was after their little spat.

"Before we go any further, let me ask you this." She said.

"Do you...like the me from your world?"

Lock, still avoiding eye contact, merely nodded slightly in response.

“It was a rocky start at first,” He said still glaring at the tags in his hand.

“But she soon warmed up to me as I did her. My worlds Scootaloo was in trouble after she and her friends got kidnapped and were almost split up and sold into slavery. I saved them and returned them to their sisters, believe it or not Applejack also had a thing for me after I saved Applebloom. Before I came to this world they both thanked me for all I had done and I think my worlds Rainbow was about to confess to me before I fought the Overlord from the Crystal Empire. Now here I am, in a different reality, banging Rainbow who’s not the Rainbow I know yet…” Lock trailed off again as his hand trembled. Then Rainbow saw something she never thought she’d see, a tear escaping Lock’s eye as he still glared down at the tags.

“…yet I still have these feelings in my heart.”

Feeling guilty for her earlier outburst, Rainbow walked towards Lock to give him a kiss and even guided his hands towards her flank.

"When you see her again, go bold. I dig a man who knows what he wants~." She advised before kissing him again.

Lock could only melt into the kiss as his heart fluttered at her kind words. Lucifer took this chance to disappear as he gently laid Rainbow down on the ground and guided his hands along her stomach and up to her breasts, fondling them through her night shirt Rainbow moaned blissfully at his soft touch as Lock pulled away to look into her eyes.

“You’re…so beautiful…” Lock said as another tear escaped his eye.

Rainbow wiped the tear away and grinned at his touch as his hands squeezed her breast.

"You know Lock, I owe you for that slap~." She said flirtaciously.

"So tonight, you can be as rough as you want with me~."

Lock smiled as he leaned down and kissed her with as much passion as he could muster. He thrusted his tongue in her mouth as their tongues battled for dominance and he lifted her night shirt up to grab her breasts directly. She moaned into their make out session as Lock groped her breasts and pinched her nipples as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Lock the trailed his kisses down her neck and sucked and bit on her neck earning mules of pleasure from his lover.

Felling mischievious, Rainbow kicked him off her and proceeded to shake her flank.

"Come and get it big boy~!" She teased before flying back towards the castle.

Lock smirked and summoned his wings again, chasing after Rainbow as she had him fly all around the towers. chase ended when Lock bolted after Rainbow and snatched her in his arms and hugged her close.

“I’ve got you now, my sexy little mare.” Lock teased in her ear as he flew towards an empty balcony.

"Mm mmm." She shook her head booping his nose.

"I want you to rip these clothes off, throw me on the bed." She leans in to whisper.

"And call me your bitch~. Wulfric does that a lot~."

“As you wish,” he said as he scooped her up bridal style and opened the doors, Thankfully it was an empty room and there was no one inside but just to make sure he stepped inside and placed a sound proof barrier so that they wouldn’t be disturbed before throwing Rainbow on the bed making her yelp excitedly as he flung off all his clothes save for his boxers.

“What a tasty treat I managed to pluck,” he said with a predatory smile as he climbed over Rainbow and grabbed her top and bottom clothes.

“Let’s see what you’re hiding underneath these rags, shall we?” He hissed seductively as he ripped them off exposing her gorgeous naked body to him.

Rainbow gave a smug grin as she showed off her athletic bod while fanning her wings out and giving him bedroom eyes.

“That’s what I like to see.” Lock said as he tossed his boxers aside.

Rainbow squealed as he positioned her on all fours and wasted no time in feeling her up from the waist down.

"Mmm~." She hummed in pleasure.

Lock waisted know time squeezing both her ass cheeks and dived into her marehood, repeating the process before stretching his tongue deep into her nethers as he searches for her G-spot making her squeal and yelp in absolute pleasure. His tongue found a familiar bump within her love canal and unlike before, he pressed into it with and lapped it up as he snaked one of his hands down and rubbed her clit while the other reached over and grabbed her breast and squeezed it hard while pinching her nipple.

"Come on do it harder~!" She whined before having her mane pulled.

Lock began to get so rough that one might actually think he was raping her but in truth, Rainbow liked it that way especially when she was in a good mood.

"Now call me your bitch!~" she grunted after the next thrust.

Lock leaned down pulling her mane up as he growled in her ear and bit it making her shudder.

“You’re my little bitch…” he growled.

“I’m gonna fuck your slutty cunt until your a dribbling mess,” he proclaimed as he smacked her ass hard on each cheek and grabbed her by the legs before lifting her up and started hammering her upwards making her fling her head back as she screamed to the heavens but thankfully the silence barrier was around the room.

“Now tell me, my little brood bitch,” Lock said.

“Where to you want my precious spunk?” He asked as he jackhammered up into her and her breasts bounced up and down.

"Grrr in my flank!~" She growled back.

"Only Wulfric is allowed to get me pregnant!"

“Very well,” Lock said as he pulled for a moment but slammed back in her flank making her yelp in surprise as he thrusted upward into her with fury, making her squeal each time until they both climaxed. A minute past after the big finish and soon he sat back down and on his back with Rainbow following suit as his cock relaxed and fell out of her tail hole with globs of cum spewing out.

“Holy…shit that was…” Lock trailed off.

"Just round one~" The rainbow mare said while grinding against him.

"This is practice for your Rainbow~."

She prepared to dismount whent the sound of someones throat being cleared startled them.

"Going for round two without me?" Said the voice of Wulfric who had come from the next room over.

“Well I I don’t see why no-”

“So this is the famous Wulfirc Warborn?”

Everyone snapped their heads to the balcony doors to see Lucifer standing in front of them with his hands behind his back. Rainbow shrieked and covered herself as Lock fell out of the bed and grabbed his boxers while Wulfric was about to charge at Lucifer but Lock stopped him just in time by stepping in front of him.

“WULFIRC DON’T! YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHO YOU’RE MESSING WITH HERE!” Lock pleaded to his friend before turning his attention to Lucifer.

“And what the hell, boss!” Lock said glaring over his shoulder.

“Ever heard of knocking?!”

“Well I saw you two needed some privacy so I left, I assumed you were finished so I came to speak with you. Only I find that you were still, going at it, as it were,” Lucifer said walking towards Lock and Wulfric.

“Hmm,” The devil mumbled as he approached Wulfric, All could was easily half a foot taller than him but the king still kept his gaze on him, yet he couldn’t bring himself to move his body due to the unexplainable feeling of dread he felt as he starred into Lucifer’s eyes.

“To meet someone who has slain Dainn is quite intriguing. I suppose I should introduce myself, I am Lucifer MorningStar or as Dimitri calls me,” He said leaning in.

“The Devil himself.”

End.

A Wild Night Part 4

Author's Notes:

Thank you WurkyWilk358 0W0 for being my co-writer.

“To meet someone who has slain Dainn is quite intriguing. I suppose I should introduce myself, I am Lucifer MorningStar or as Dimitri calls me,” He said leaning in.

“The Devil himself.”

"State your business fiend." The king hissed while trying to keep his legs from shaking.

“Fiend you say?” Lucifer repeats placing a hand on his shoulder which made Wulfirc tremble a little.

“My dear boy, I would highly advise you watch what you say, especially in the presence of someone who can quite literally pluck your soul right here and now.”

“Lucifer!” Lock snapped making him turn to him.

“That’s enough, please release my friend this instant.”

Lucifer scoffed as he face Wulfric and smiled darkly under the shadow of his hood before stepping back.

“I have come here for a number of reasons,” The devil said snapping his fingers and from thin air a pair of scabbards appeared in his hands that Lock recognized immediately.

“The first is returning these to you, you left them behind when you came here so I thought I’d return them to you.” Lucifer handed the scabbards to a Lock who then unsheathed them making Wulfirc and Rainbow gasp in awe. Two swords, one red like fire and the other a deep blue like ice, were held in Lock’s grasp as the red blade wither flickered small embers and the blue blade produced small shards of ice.

“It seems they missed their master."

“Surtr and and Ymir,” Lock said aloud gaining Wulfirc’s attention at their names.

"The names of the fire and frost giant kings." The king replied while staring at the craftsmanship of the blades.

“Indeed, quite the fitting names,” Lucifer said.

“The second reason is to inform you the state of your soul.”

“My soul?” Lock repeats.

“Yes, your soul has been damaged upon your arrival to this world. When you were sucked into the mirror, I felt the connection between our souls tear which would no doubt cause great discomfort to you,” Lucifer explains.

“Guess that explains why my chest felt like it was gonna burst when I came flying through,” Lock said as he sheathed Surtr and Ymir.

“I’m afraid it is more concerning than that,” Lucifer said.

“Because of this, your power has diminished quite a bit which will leave you more vulnerable in battle. Meaning that the effects of your logia and paramecia will no longer work to protect you from physical attacks.”

"His what and what?" Asked Rainbow still covering herself.

“I guess I should explain,” Lock said handing the sheathed blades to Wulfirc who was still admiring the swords.

“You see there are three different types of power I can use, the first is Paramecia which grants me the power to alter features of my body such as a rubber physique or a body of blades,” Lock explained as he actually stretched his cheek out making Rainbow giggle and morph his feathers into blades and even his arm which shocked Wulfirc.

“The second is Zoan which allows me to transform into an animal. I also transform into a hybrid form of my own species and the species my power allows me to transform into, for example,” Lock said as he squatted down. Soon his body began to change as his wings retracted into his body and his skin became reddish brown fur and his ears moved to the top of his head and became pointed, his hands and feet morphed into paws as his legs became hind legs. His face stretched into a muzzle as his teeth morphed into sharp fangs and his eyes became a deep amber. Once the transformation was complete Lock sat in the room as a large wolf, easily twice the size of a regular one shocking Wulfirc and Rainbow.

“This is just one of the many examples of animals I can turn into. Another is-”

Lock was cut off when Rainbow squealed and jumped over to Lock and hugged his large wolf form and nuzzled into his soft fur.

"SO CUTE!!" She squealed forgetting her nudeness.

Lock could only sit their a little puzzled as Rainbow continued to nuzzle into his fur making Lucifer chuckle.

“Uh Wulfirc, do you mind getting your wife off me please,” he asked. However Wulfirc was a tad preoccupied since he had unsheathed Surtr a little and was admiring the blade and how it radiated with power.

“Oi Wulfirc!” Lock literally barked making Rainbow giggle and nuzzle into him more as she hugged him a little tighter.

"Huh? Oh right. Rainbow!"

Lock was finally released from her grip before transforming back but to his surprise, it took a lot more out of him than usual.

“Ugh…” Lock groaned as he fell to his knee. “I feel like I just ran a hundred miles…that’s never happened before.”

“I suppose I should also mention that your Zoan abilities have diminished as well. Whenever you transform, depending how long you stay transformed, you will feel the after affects. Just imagine how you would feel if you stayed transformed for a longer period of time,” Lucifer said.

“I’ll try to keep that in mind,” Lock said as he brought himself to stand again.

“Anyway where was I? Oh yeah, the third and final power is Logia. Logia allows me to create, control, and transform myself into a natural element, whether it be a solid element. Like ice or sand which are solid base, mud or syrup which are liquid, smoke which is gaseous, and fire and lightning which are pure energy base The elemental transformation effectively makes me intangible, as well as allowing me to remain in control of my body, even when it is broken into pieces,” Lock explains. “However now that my soul is damaged I’m guessing you mean that those traits no longer apply and I can only use them for attacking and my body will be more vulnerable and won’t turn into any element I choose?” Lock questions Lucifer.

“Indeed, no loner will a sword go though you like smoke, but actually pierce your flesh and most definitely kill you. You also will not be able to mold your body and turn it into Ice or Fire or any other elements.” Lucifer answers.

"Well then we better work on your physical training." Wulfric added before groping Rainbow Dash.

"Mmm speaking of physical~"

“I suppose I shall take my leave once again,” Lucifer said as he turned away.

“We shall speak again, my Hand, but before I do I must implore that you heed your own words you spoke to me before. You still have an obligation to uphold in your reality and you must remember that from here on, for even the…smallest…attachments are sometimes the hardest to break,” he said glancing at Rainbow before disappearing in a puff of flames.

Lock and the others were confused at what he meant until Lock looked over at Rainbow. His eyes trailed down to her lower stomach and gasped as his body went rigid as he saw a symbol etched on her fur.

“Uh…R-Rainbow…?” Lock stammered nervously.

“D-Did you…always have that…t-tattoo and I just never noticed?”

Rainbow looked down and saw the strange symbol was in the exact spot her scar used to be and became a bit worried.

“…oh crap…” Lock mumbled.

"Lock what is this?" She asked covering her belly.

“…Oh Crap!” Lock yelped as he remembered about a certain farm mare he also slept with.

“OH CRAP!” He cried as he gripped his head.

"Lock what is it?" Wulfric asked as he grew more frantic.

“I-I-I…I GOTTA GO PUNCH SOMETHING!” He yelped as he was about to grab his clothes and fly off but Wulfirc stopped him and kept a firm grip on his shoulder.

"Lock calm down before I punch YOU! Now what is this mark?!?" Wulfric demanded while clenching his fist showing he was indeed ready to punch his lights out.

“Alright alright! It’s…a mark of mates…” he said in defeat.

“Lucifer told me if I choose to be with someone and I mate with them part of my soul will enter theirs as theirs will enter mine and that symbol will appear on my mate. To put it simply, and if I’m being completely honest, Rainbow and Applejack are now…my mates as well. Since it’s similar to marriage.” Lock sighed and closed his eyes.

“Now you can beat me to death…”

Wulfric blinked fir a moment and in a rather Ironic twist began to laugh.

"I see so you really do want my girls for yourself eh?" He joked slapping him on the back.

“Oh come on, Wulfric!” Lock snapped.

“How are you not pissed at me right now?! I basically just forced my way into your marriage without your consent! They’re supposed to be your wives and your wives alone, not mine! What does this even make me in all this?!”

"In all honesty, a much needed partner." Wulfric sighed while leaning closer.

"Since you healed Rainbow, she and Applejack have been competing to see who has my next kid. I can barely keep up!" He whispered before the distinct sound of a spine popping could be heard.

“Seriously?” Lock deadpans as his friend smiles sheepishly.

“So what am I now, some kind of godfather to Beorn and Apple Jewel?”

"I guess you are." Wulfric smirked.

Rainbow was standing in front of a mirror, looking at her new mark and even began to do a few poses.

"You know...this is kinda sexy."

Lock smirked as Rainbow admired her mark but then his senses spiked ever so slightly as he looked around for what was the source until his eyes fell back on Rainbow making his expression change.

“You know the mark also has a second meaning to it,” Lock said as he walked over to Rainbow.

“Hey Wulfirc, after I left your room, you went at it with Rainbow and Applejack for a few more rounds didn’t you?”

"Yeah a couple." The king boasted crossing his arms.

"Why?"

Lock looked down at Rainbow who tilted her head as he smiled warmly.

“The mark also symbolizes fertility,” Lock said making their eyes widen.

“And I can sense not one, but two, new souls within Rainbow,” he said glancing over his shoulder. “Congratulations Wulfirc, you’re gonna have twins.”

At first, their was silence then in a triumphant laugh he embraced his friend and spun him around before hugging his mare and kissing her.

"After all this time..." he said with tears of joy and kissed her belly.

“You know if my senses are still sharp,” Lock said as he closed his eyes to find Applejack’s soul and focused to find another within her making him smile and open his eyes.

“Yup as I thought, Applejack is pregnant to,” Lock said as he patted Wulfirc’s shoulder.

Wulfrics face was soon filled with tears of joy as a smile formed on his face. He was to be a father again, at long last.

“Oh and in case you were wondering Dash,” Lock said leaning in.

“Your kids were conceived first.”

"YES!" She shouted finally waking Applejack who walked into the room rubbing her eyes.

"Hey y'all mind telling me-MMPH?"

The farm mare was caught off guard by a kiss from her husband as he proceeded to lay her on the bed.

"Mmm...sugarcube?" She asked after their kiss broke.

"I'll explain in the morning." Wulfric replied as he continued to make love to her.

"Hey lock?" Rainbow called out.

"You're sure they're his...right?"

Lock closed his eyes and placed a hand on her belly and focused. He then compared them to Wulfirc’s soul and smiled as he opened them.

“Yes I’m sure, they’re souls resonate with one another. Plus you’ll pleased to know you’ll be having a fawn and a colt,” he said with a smile while whispering.

“And Applejack is having a buck,”

"Sweet!" She squealed silently while watching the two on the bed.

"Think you can do an all nighter~?"

“As extremely tempting as that is, I’m afraid all this excitement is starting to finally take its toll so I’m gonna go find a cloud and sleep on it,” Lock said as he put his clothes back on and attached his two scabbards to his belt.

“You enjoy celebrating with your husband and Applejack without me, meanwhile I gotta figure out what to tell Beorn and Apple Jewel the news that they have a new godfather.”

"Then how about a kiss?" She said bending over and pointing to her flank.

"No tricks."

Lock chuckled and leaned down to gently kiss her cutie mark which she giggled and then leaned up to kiss her lips saying

“Goodnight Skittles.”

Rainbow winked as she walked towards the bed with a sway in her hips to join Applejack and her husband for what was no doubt the happiest moment in her life.

End.

Deals and Devils

It has been 3 weeks since Dimitri had arrived in Equestria from an alternate reality and already so much has happened for the young man, especially with The King of The North. Even though he did not intend it, Dimitri had somehow become a part of Wulfirc’s family in more ways than one.

During the 2 weeks since the incident in Canterlot, Beorn and Imperius had returned from their survival training and informed everyone about what happened to them. Naturally, Celestia and Luna wanted to rip Blueblood’s head off even more when they heard what the captured bandits told them what Blueblood had planned for their children upon capture.

However Wulfirc was proud of Beorn for not letting himself lose to his rage since he had his comrades with him, Beorn on the other hand had a few words with his father since he hadn’t informed him of his sudden engagement to the daughter of Queen Chrysalis, Princess Crysta. As this was all happening, Lock had been in the Everfree Forest training himself in private Ever since Lucifer had informed him that his soul was damaged upon arrival in this reality, he had spent his free time strengthening his soul so he could hopefully be at full strength once again.

Today he had returned from his training and was greeted by Wulfirc and his wives with smiles, minus Rainbow Dash since she practically jumped on Lock and locked lips with him as soon as she saw him and proceeded to grope his ass in front of everyone. When Wulfirc had informed Applejack all that had happened the night she came in to check on all the noise she was naturally very surprised and overjoyed she and Rainbow Dash were pregnant again thanks to Lock, even though her slight disappointment that her baby wasn’t conceived first. Lock had expected to get punched by Applejack when he explained to her about the mark on her belly but instead she just hugged him and said she didn’t mind since she figured he had a bit of a thing for her anyway.

Wulfirc, Lock, Applejack and Rainbow Dash were walking through the halls of the castle towards the council room where the other royals and their children were waiting since Celestia had announced that Queen Chrysalis was on her way and would be here momentarily. While Wulfirc and his wives were smiling proudly, Lock had a bit of a nervous expression on his face as he kept fiddling with his sword, Surtr, by holding on to its hilt.

“Jeez, you’d think after all the battles I’ve been through I’d be able to handle telling someone I’m gonna be their new godfather,” Lock groaned out loud.

“You sure Beorn and Apple Jewel will accept me Wulfirc?” He asked glancing at The King.

"You'll be fine. My son already likes you." The king smirked before giving Lock one of his signature slaps to the back.

“Here’s hoping…” Lock said rubbing his back.

Soon the four made it to the council room where Celestia, Luna, Marshall, Beorn, Apple Jewel, Selene, and Imperius were all waiting for them. Though as Lock sat next to Wulfirc he noticed Selene giving him dreamy eyes and batted her eyelashes at him every so often which made Lock smile sheepishly.

Crap, that night is coming back to me, Lock mumbled in his head.

I should talk to her as soon as this is over.

The doors open once again and Princess Crysta walks in with a smile as the the group stands to greet her. Crysta’s gaze the lingers to the odd creature out when she spots the crimson red winged man before her.

"Oh. You must be Dimitri." She says with a bow.

"I am Princess Crysta of the changelings."

“A pleasure, Princess Crysta,” Lock replied with a curt nod.

“My name is Dimitri Lockdrom, the human visitor from another Equestria. I assume you are related to a one Queen Chrysalis?”

"Indeed she is." Answered the voice of Chrysalis who had just entered the council chambers wearing her signature royal silk robes with two maids escorting her.

"Mother!"

Crysta was overjoyed to see her mother again as they embraced each other, much to the councils surprise.

Lock, being the gentleman he is, slowly approached the Queen as she released her daughter. As he stood in front of her, which he was easily a head taller than her, Lock cleared his throat and placed a hand on over his heart as he bent down on one knee and bowed to the Queen.

“Lady Chrysalis, a great honor to meet you. I am Dimitri Lockdrom,” Lock greets in a calm tone.

"My you are a handsome one." She replied while smirking behind her fan.

"Would you be interested in being my new consort?"

Lock shot his head up with a bewildered expression as his wings twitched at the Queen’s sudden offer. He then stood up straight bobbing his mouth open and closed unable to speak for a moment.

“Uh…come again?” He asked nervously.

"I asked if you would like to serve me~." She replied snapping her fan shut.

"I promise you'll love it."

As Chrysalis approached Lock with a sway in her step, he glanced over his shoulder and saw the royals all snickering at the display.

“A little help please?” Lock pleaded as Chrysalis started to circle her finger along his chest just before his nose began to twitch making him breath in.

“Ah…Ah…AHCHOO!”

All of a sudden Lock’s body transformed immediately into his large wolf from leaving everyone in the room in a shocked state. When lock shook his head and sniffled he looked down and saw he was a wolf again making him groan.

“Aw come on, not again. He said this would only last a week…” Lock then felt his hairs stand up as he looked over to the royals again and saw the three fillies stare at him wide smiles and sparkling eyes making him nervous.

“Oh no…”

The girls wasted no time cuddling him as they squeezed him from all sides, trying to keep him to themselves.

"Eee you're so cute!!" Squealed Crysta as he squeezed him in a headlock.

“Gak! Why…is it…always…the wolf?!” Lock gasped.

Lock attempted to change back but Apple Jewel and Selene kept a firm grip on his body while continuing to snuggle into his fur making him grumble in defeat.

Feeling sorry for his predicament, Celestia used her mane to tickle Lock’s nose making him scrunch his snout as he was about to sneeze again.

Shit…not again! he thought.

“ACHOO!”

All mares were flung off as he transformed again, when they collected themselves everyone gasped and Chrysalis had a very seductive expression on her face as she licked her lips.

“Well, well~” she purrs.

Lock had now transformed into his Alicorn form as he rubbed his nose. Everyone gawked at the crimson red Alicorn as he opened his eyes to reveal a deep amber color and how his firey mane and tail flickered like a flame. When Lock looked down at himself he facepalmed an groaned irritated.

“Aw fuck me…”

"Don't tempt me~." The queen said with a grin when Wulfric finally stepped in.

"What's this about Chrysalis?" He said looking her in the eye.

"I don't recall agreeing to any marriage arrangement with my son."

“I KNEW IT!” Beorn blurred out pointing at Chrysalis.

“Whoa you’re engaged, Beorn?” Lock asked as he transformed back to a human.

“Congrats, I’m sure you’ll make Crysta a happy changeling.”

Dimitri's statement had earned an icy cold stare from both Wulfric and Rainbow Dash making him freeze up instantly before they returned their attention to Chrysalis

"Answer me now."

"Why Wulfric, you wound me." She replied in a somewhat dramatic fashion.

"We have always talked about strengthening the bond between our nations and what better way than through our children?"

“Now hold on a moment,” Lock chimed in before things got too heated.

“I may not know what history you have with each other but I do know one thing. You can’t just waltz in here and proclaim that these two are to be wed when obviously not everyone is in agreement. I mean look at Beorn, he’s probably still the most shocked out of all of us since this was dropped on out of no where.”

"True but something like this would happen sooner or later and besides."

The queen paused as she opened her fan and began cooling herself.

"There are still many in the court who are against you Wulfric and many more who would attempt to use your family to their advantage."

Lock arched a brow and turned to Wulfric who had a scowl on his face.

“You having problems with the nobles too Wulfric?” Lock asked.

“Too?” Rainbow repeats.

“Oh yeah, back in my reality I always received a lot of flak from the nobles. They said I was just a mass murderer who would one day turn on Equestria and taint my worlds Celestia’s and Luna’s image if I ever got close to them despite all my efforts in the war. I always told them that they’re entitled to their own opinion and if they ever crossed me I’d rip off their arms and beat them with the soggy end,” Lock said bluntly.

"Well at least you didn't deal with random proposals." Said Applejack in the same manner.

"I can't count how many times some rich guy proclaimed his love for me."

“Pfft, lemme guess, he said he would be a way better suitor for you because he said something along the lines of ‘you’re too good for that filthy Caribou’, right? No offense Wulfric,” Lock said glancing at Wulfric.

"Meh. I'm used to it." He shrugged just as Chrysalis snapped her fan shut.

"Then you see why I do this. I too have enemies against me."

Lock thought long and hard for a moment about the currant situation. If the nobles are were restless as the ones from his reality, possibly more proud and entitled, then it’s only a matter of time before something disastrous happens. With a heavy sigh he cleared his throat to gain everyone’s attention.

“Alright look, it’s…a long shot but I may have a solution,” Lock said earning their interest.

“Or should I say I know someone who may have a solution,” he adds while glancing at Wulfric and Rainbow, hinting a certain Dark Lord.

"No." Wulfric said sternly.

"We can handle this ourselves."

However the deed had already been done, and Dimitri felt it.

“Oh damn…”

Soon the room became dark and the doors slammed shut startling everyone. The air became thick with the feeling of dread making all uneasy and fearful as the children cling to their mothers. A maniacal laugh filled the air as a burst of flames appeared in the center of the room. Everyone starred at the sudden pillar of flames as a silhouette if a tall figure revealed itself. The flames were then snuffed out and from it a tall hooded figure, who’s face was covered in shadow with red shining eyes, wearing a trench coat stood in the room with its hands behind its back. It smiled darkly under its hood making everyone, minus Lock, tremble in fear at the sudden appearance of this creature.

“Call upon me, and I shall appear. My faithful Hand,” The figure stated as he looked to Lock.

“Lucifer…” Lock sighed earning gasps from all who did not meet the Devil before.

The children screamed as they hid behind their parents while Celestia prepared to blast him with her magic and Marshall unsheathed Nightfall.

"Who are you?" The lord regent demanded as he inched himself into striking range.

Lucifer looked over to Celestia who tensed up at his very gaze before turning his attention to Marshall.

“Oh apologies, in all the excitement I failed to introduce myself,” Lucifer said making Lock’s eyes roll.

“My name is Lucifer MorningStar, or in other words, The Devil himself.”

“Basically he’s the one who brought me to my reality, gave me my powers, and appointed me as his hand,” Lock chimed in.

“I’m sorry about the dramatic entrance Celestia, he always did have a knack for making an appearance when it is unnecessary,” Lock said shooting Lucifer the stink eye.

"Then please explain his presence at once." Luna demanded while shielding her daughter behind her wing.

“Why to aid you of course, dear Princess of the Moon,” Lucifer said with a curt nod before turning to Wulfric who also tensed up while keeping his children at a distance.

“I know much about your clan, boy, much that I doubt even your elders would know. Tell me, does the name Valyrian mean anything to you?” Lucifer asks.

"Valyrian? That's the rarest metal in the world. Hard to find and even harder to forge than star metal." Wulfric responded while pondering his question.

“Indeed, and your precious claymore is made of it,” Lucifer states earning a surprised look from the King.

“Now what would you say if I told you that I know where to mine this metal for more Valyrian steel? With it, I doubt even those pesky nobles would be able to stand against you or anyone else they do not see eye to eye with in this room. I’ll even share my knowledge of how to properly forge such a precious metal for proper weaponry.”

“Calm yourself, Miss Applejack,” Lucifer said raising his hand.

“I am owed nothing by any of you, that business I shall leave for my Hand. So what do you say?”

Applejack looks at Lock with a worried expression and Lock gives her a comforting smile as he walks over and holds her hand.

“Relax, Applejack, I’m his Hand so you let me deal with how repay him for this information. I’ve been working for him for almost a year so I’m pretty sure I can handle it,” Lock said as he starred into her eyes.

Applejack raised her eyebrow as she looked him in the eye and after a brief moment of thinking she sighed in defeat and allowed Lock to handle the deal.

“Alright Lucifer, what do you want in exchange for the mine?” Lock asked facing his master.

“Two things, actually,” Lucifer said holding out his fingers.

“Two?” Lock repeats.

Lucifer nods and holds out his hand with his palm facing upwards. From his hand a small flame appears and from it a strange looking fruit appears making Lock’s eyes go wide.

“You know what this is, don’t you?” Lucifer questions.

All of a sudden, the very atmosphere around Lock became hot and heavy. Everyone gazed at Lock, some in shock and in growing fear as Lock’s gaze became harsh and enraged. His firsts clenched as they burst into flames along with his wings and he glared at Lucifer with a fury. Wulfirc noticed that Lock’s eyes became amber as his pupils shrunk to pinpricks.

“YOU DARE ASK ME OF SOMETHING OUTRAGEOUS AS THIS?!?”

Lock roars making the whole room shake.

"Whoa calm down man!" Rainbow shouted after backing away from the flames.

"You're upset over a piece of fruit?" Asked Applejack looking at the fruit with curiousity but Celestia and Luna knew there was something special or rather something dangerous about it.

"That fruit has magic." Said Celestia eyeing the fruit with caution.

“Not magic…” Lock hissed.

“Devil Fruit, the same fruit that made me what you all see before you.”

"I see." Said Wulfric as he stepped up to Lucifer without hesitation.

"If you expect any of us to eat this....thing, then you are mistaken."

“Oh my dear deluded king of course I don’t expect you to partake of this fruit,” Lucifer said in a mocking tone.

“No, Lock’s task for this fruit is to find someone in this world who will.”

“And why the hell should I find someone to go through something that I, Flash, Zephyr, and Maud went through?” Lock demands while revealing his markings once more before noticing Wulfric reach for his scabbard.

"Then maybe I should hack this fruit and you...TO PIECES!!"

Without a second thought, Wulfric unsheathed Kingslayer and struck at Lucifer despite his friends protest.

The devil was able to catch the blade with minimal effort and grinned at the enraged king, yet despite the outburst he simply made Wulfric lower his blade and like a child pat him on the head.

He then leaned down to look at Wulfirc’s eyes and smiled an evil grin that sent a very unpleasant chill down his spine.

“Bold of you to raise your sword against me, but also quite foolish…” Lucifer warns with an echo in his distorted voice.

Wulfric could only grunt in defeat as he sheathed his sword and backed off much to the relief of his family.

“Wulfric, as much as I appreciate you standing up for me, I unfortunately have no choice,” Lock said as he took the fruit from Lucifer.

"They say when the gods intervene in our lives, it's for our own destiny but when a devil intervenes-!"

"We do it for ourselves."

“I’ll find someone to eat this fruit Lucifer,” Lock said as he place the fruit in his jacket.

“Now tell me what the second part is.”

“Oh it’s quite simple, you must allow me to repair your soul a tad,” Lucifer said.

“What do you mean?” Lock wonders.

“I have given it some thought and I might be able to repair your soul but not fully, that part you must do yourself. The reason why is because you’ve spent a fair bit amount of time in this reality already while your friends, crew, and apprentices still await your return. The sooner you finish your business here, the better. After all you already made some connections you were not supposed to,” Lucifer said, glancing at Rainbow and Applejack.

The mares covered their stomachs as they felt his gaze on them, making the situation grow more tense.

“Leave them out of this!” Lock demanded spreading his wings out wide in a protective manner.

“Yes it’s true, I mated with them, but so what? They accepted me knowing what I am and I will always be great full to them, Wulfirc as well for welcoming me to his family.” Lock then looks over his shoulder and wing to Beorn and Apple Jewel.

“In fact I’m actually proud to be a godfather to these two, we were gonna tell you kids later but I suppose it’s a good a time now as any.” Lock looks back at Lucifer as he draws both Surtr and Ymir.

“If you have a problem whom I share my heart with then you’re welcome to tell me otherwise,”

"Think you can take two of us?"

Lucifer turned to see Wulfric ready to attack again despite his earlier threat until Celestia finally intervened.

"ENOUGH!!" The sun monarch shouted in her canterlot voice.

"There will be no more violence here!"

“At least one member of royalty has some sense in them,” Lucifer scoffs.

“Lucifer please listen,” Lock said as he sheathed his swords and furled his wings back.

“I know I have an important obligation to uphold in my reality but I trust Draco and the others to keep Equestria under watch until I return. I made an oath to you and I plan to keep it, just let me help these people gain a proper foothold in this war against Blueblood and I’ll return.”

Lucifer was silent for a moment before brought his hand up to his face and pinched the bridge of his nose under his hood.

“It seems you are insistent on aiding these people,” Lucifer sighs.

“Very well, I shall no longer pester you on the matter any longer, just as long as you do not forget your oath.”

“I don’t plan to, now please repair my soul,” Lock said raising his arms.

“Of course,” Lucifer nods while raising his finger and small white ember flickers on the tip.

“Word of warning, this will not feel pleasant.”

“Wha-“

Lock was cut off when Lucifer flicked the flame at Lock’s chest. As soon as it made contact with him the flame seemed to be absorbed into Lock’s body. At first there was nothing, until suddenly Lock buckled over clutching his chest unable to breathe. Wulfirc reacted immediately and was at his side trying to steady his breaths before he began to vomit blood, horrifying everyone around him. Lock screamed in utter agony as he tore off his upper clothing leaving him bare chested as he felt something trying to escape his lower back, everyone continued to watch in fear as he continued to scream and Lucifer simply starred down at him.

Suddenly, something sprang out from Lock’s lower back that left everyone speechless. A second part of wings, just under His feathered ones spread straight out from his spine. They were webbed like a bat and the membrane was a crimson red color. Lock struggled to collect himself as he was still coughing up blood as he sat up in his knees while panting heavily. he then noticed the tribal brands on his arms were glowing a little as he looked down at his chest and saw the tribal marks had spread over his left pectoral over his heart. When Lock looked up he saw everyone stare at him completely gobsmacked making him raise a brow.

“What…are you starring at?” Lock wondered before noticing his reflection in a nearby mirror.

He looked behind him and saw his second pair of wings and went wide eyed, he then slowly brought his knee up and planted his boot on the ground and rose up. As he was doing so, with his wings still spread out wide, he noticed that his physique had grown as well. He felt a little taller, his muscles felt more refined, and he felt more power within his soul than before.

When he stood up straight he noticed that he was at least now half a foot taller than Wulfirc and he noticed his hair had grown to the point where he could see his bangs if he looked up. When he glanced over to a mirror in the room he gasped not only at his new appearance but his eyes as well. They went from a simple brown to a bright amber color which seemed to glow every so often.

FLOOP

FLOOP

FLOOP

Lock looked over and saw that Rainbow’s wings were spread out wide, and surprisingly Celestia and Luna’s wings, as they each had bright blushes that almost turned their very fur red including all the other females in the room.

“The hell’s gotten into you three?” Lock asked with an arched brow.

"Um Dimitri?" Wulfric chimed in while covering his childrens eyes.

"PUT SOME CLOTHES ON!!"

“Eh?”

Lock looked down again and saw not that due to his sudden growth and violent transformation his pants had torn off along with his boxers leaving him buck naked.

“Oh shit!”

Lock then used all 4 of his wings to cover himself as he snapped his head to Lucifer.

“You could’ve warned me this would happen, Lucifer!” Lock snapped.

“My apologies, it seems the results were too satisfactory. But allow me to do one more thing for you,” he said as he snapped his fingers.

After a bright flash, Lock was dressed in his clothes and jacket again but this time in bigger sizes. Lock sighed as he unfurled both his wings as he started to take in his new physique.

“Well I certainly feel more powerful, but holy crap that hurt like a bitch…” Lock said while wiping his mouth for any blood.

“Sorry for flashing you all,” he said sheepishly to the others in the room.

"Oh I didn't mind~" Chrysalis grinned while fanning herself.

“Whatever…” Lock said while rolling his eyes. He soon felt something behind him and saw Applejack was feeling his webbed wings and Rainbow feeling his feathered ones..

“Uh do you two mind? We’re kinda in the middle of something here,” Lock said while trying to pull a wing from each mare but the just held on.

"Weird. You'd think only discord would do something like this." Rainbow said while tugging his feathers.

"Huh. Go figure." Applejack replied while rubbing the webbings.

“Remind me to ask about Discord at a later date,” Lock said while pulling his wings away making both mares pout cutely.

“Now then Lucifer, I did what you asked so tell us where the mine is.”

“Of course, a deal’s a deal and I always see through to all. Though rather than I tell you there is someone who I managed to convince a few acquaintances of mine to allow to visit and tell you himself,” Lucifer said.

Before any could question what he meant, Lucifer snapped his fingers and a large doorappeared in a flash. The door then opened slowly and a bight light had shown through the room. Heavy footsteps could be heard approaching the doorway as Lock and Wulfric braced themselves, but who walked through shocked the King in The North to his very core. An older Caribou, wearing traditional royal Viking armor and armed with a familiar axe attached to his belt, walked through as small wisps float around him. He looked around the room until his eyes fell on Wulfirc and he smiled warmly at him.

“Wulfirc, you’ve grown into a fine stag, my son,” the Caribou said making everyone gasp.

Wulfrics entire body froze at the sound of the old stags voice for it was one he had not heard in many years and as he reached out, one word escaped his lips as a tear fell from his face.

"....Father?"

End.

Royal Arrangements

“Indeed, my son, it is I,” Wulfirc’s father said. Wulfric dropped his sword and walked over to the older stag. He reached out with a shaken hand and his father responded in kind by grabbing his wrist, Wulfirc gasped and the damn broke as he quickly embraced his father and wept like a newborn buck.

“Come now I thought I raised my boy to be strong and iron willed, not some sniveling buck who weeps on my shoulder.” the older stag joked as he returned the embrace.

"I've missed you." Wulfric wept as he held him tight.

So touching was their reunion that even the princesses could not help but shed tears themselves. After collecting himself, Wulfric wiped away his tears and began introducing his family.

"Children! Come meet your grandfather!" He said with a smile as they ran over.

“Well look these two fine foals,” Wulfric’s father said with pride as he knelt down.

“Your son looks just like you. Hello young stag, what is your name?”

"Beorn. Sir." The boy said politely before having his head ruffled.

“None of that sir nonsense, good lad, call me Pops!” He said making Beorn chuckle.

“And who’s this beautiful little gem?” He said looking at Apple Jewel who blushed shyly as she replied to her grandfather.

"A-Apple Jewel"

“She’s quite precious,” his father chuckles as he gently raised his arms.

“No need to be shy young one, come give your grandstag a hug.”

Apple Jewel smiled as she jumped into her grandfathers arms with her brother. The old stag laughed as he toppled over from their combined weight and soon enough, everyone in the room was laughing save for lucifer.

“How in the wild did you manage?” Lock asked Lucifer as he watched the family play.

“I may be the Devil but I’m not as cold hearted as you think,” Lucifer said.

“Call this a gesture of good faith to the King in The North.”

Wulfirc’s father then collected himself as he stood up and smiled down at his grandchildren before he spotted Lock making the duel winged man gulp as he slowly approached the late King.

“Um…ahem, it’s an honor to meet you sir,” Lock said with a bow of his head.

“My name is Dimitri Lockdrom, I’m what some would call the godfather of the family."

The old man managed to stand while still holding his grandchildren to greet Dimitri with a simple nod of the head and a smile.

"Thank you for looking after them. I wish I could stay but we have business to attend to."

“Right, Lucifer mentioned you know where the Valyrian mine is,” Lock said.

“Indeed I do, in fact it was the one clan secret I wished to share with my son before my untimely passing,” the old king said.

“Forgive me Wulfirc.”

"It wasn't your fault father."

The old king let down his grandchildren before walking over to a map of the northern kingdoms and saw that much had changed under his sons rule.

"My memory is a bit rusty but I believe the mines were located...here!" His finger pointed at a mountain pass just beyond Wulfrics old village.

"That's frost wyrm pass." Wulfric said with a nervous gulp as that was the prime hunting grounds for frost wyrms.

"That bad?" Asked Rainbow after noticing he was getting nervous.

“What are Frost Wyrms?” Lock wondered as he gazed at the map.

"They are also known as Frost Wyverns in the common tongue." Celestia stated as she began sharing her knowledge of the beasts.

"They make their nests on top of icy cliffs or mountains and they are extremely territorial. As their name implies, they are related to dragons but more primal."

"Not to mention they have a fondness for warm meat." Added Wulfric.

"As children, we were forbidden to even go near there."

Lock pondered this information and rubbed his chin in deep thought until he got a crazy idea.

“Do they have a sort of matriarch hey follow?” Lock asks.

"If we can take out their leader then they'll fly off to find another nest."

"They do but matriarchs rarely venture from the nest but all this can wait. Today is a day for celebration."

“In more ways than one,” Lock adds, putting his mad plan aside and glancing at Rainbow and Applejack.

“You two wanna tell them or should Wulfric?”

"Tell us what? Apple jewel asked as her mother knelt down with a smile.

"Sugarcube. Your momma Rainbow Dash and me are pregnant again. You're gonna be a big sister!"

At first there was silence but then Apple Jewel grew the biggest smile possible and lunged at Applejack with a big hug.

“I’m gonna be a big sister!” She squealed.

“I’m…gonna have more siblings?” Beorn asked a little shocked.

“That’s right kid,” Lock replised as he walked up to Beorn and placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Rainbow’s having twins, a fawn and a colt, and Applejack’s having a Buck. Also sorry for dropping the fact that I’m to be your knew godfather out of the blue. If you and Apple Jewel are willing to accept me then I’ll be sure to treat you both as if you were my own, along with your knew siblings that are on the way.”

Like his sister, Beorn grew the widest smile he could make and jumped for joy screaming.

"This is AWESOOME!!"

Lock chuckled as he glanced over to Celestia and Luna both smiling proudly at Wulfric’s family. He then caught a glimpse of Selene who was still starring at him a little making him sigh and rub the back of his head.

Well…might as well rip the bandaid off now, Lock thought as he approached Luna and Selene.

“Um, Luna may I speak to you and Selene in private for a moment?” Lock requests.

Luna grew curious at his request and followed him just outside the doors leaving the others to celebrate.

"What's this about Sir Lock?"

Just ask dude… Lock grumbled in his head.

“Selene, I’d like you to be perfectly honest with me alright?” Lock said making Selene nod. With a deep breath Lock looked into her eyes.

“What do you think of me?”

The young princess was caught off guard and blushed at the question as she stammered to find an answer and was even suffering from a little magic flux.

"U-uhh we-well I...I..."

“Selene,” Lock said calmly as he knelt down in front of her. She starred into his amber eyes and felt her heart flutter even more.

“You can be honest with me, I won’t turn away from you at all.”

At first all she could do was whimper before running off in a cloud of dust with her face completely red.

"Oh to be young."

“I guess you already know huh?” Lock asked Luna as he stood up.

"Indeed so I will be very clear." Luna said in a calm yet forboding tone that would even make Lucifer shiver.

"You do anything to hurt my daughter or try to take advantage of her...then I promise you'll never sleep soundly again."

In that moment, Lunas eyes turned to a different color and shape as she gave a sinister smile.

"Am I clear?"

“C-crystal,” Lock said sheepishly.

“And I’d never do anything of the sort, not like…” Lock trailed off looking depressed as he placed a hand on his chest where the tags hung under his shirt.

“…not like my old man.”

"Yes. Rainbow Dash told me of your little spat so do not fret."

Lunas expression lightened a bit as she remembered another part of Rainbows story.

"If you like, perhaps you can join my husband and I in bed some time~? I wish to see just how much stamina a human has~."

Lock, once again, shot his head up to see Luna give him a seductive look as she bit her bottom lip and stepped forward to lean into him while pressing her breasts on his chest making his heart beat fast.

“Are…you serious right now or are you just pulling my leg?” Lock wonders, unable to look away from Luna’s lustful gaze as well as down her blouse. He then felt a presence behind him and saw Celestia had heard Luna’s invitation and gave him an equally sultry look as she started to rub her hands along both pairs of Lock’s wings.

“Oh boy…”

Both mares prepared to move in for the kill when Luna suddenly let out a yelp and her cheeks flushed red.

"My my Luna, you sure are frisky this morning." Called out the voice of a stallion groping the princesses royal flank.

"H-husband!"

“Marshall!” Lock said as he stepped away from the horny Princesses.

“Oh geeze man, it’s not what it looks like! We were all in the council room and I called Luna and Selene out here because I wanted to talk to them about how Selene is in love with me…Ack! No wait! That’s not what I meant! I meant that I was gonna accept her feelings and be her…Ack!”

"Lock, for your sake please stop talking." Celestia advised before walking over to kiss her husbsnd.

"Morning darling."

"Morning sun butt~."

Celestia squeaked as Marshalls hand found its way down to her flank.

“Well I’m just gonna go and rejoin the others,” Lock said as he was about to return to the council room, only to be stopped when Luna grabbed his wing and pulled him back.

Lock tuned his head around to see Luna still giving him bedroom eyes, making him gulp nervously.

“You’re serious, aren’t you?”

"Only if our husband doesn't mind." She replied while waiting for an answer.

"Well..." Marshall paused scratching the back of his head.

“Alright look, before you answer I just wanna shed some light on you all. Wulfric welcomed me into the family ever since I mated with Rainbow and Applejack when I thought it was a one time thing. But when they both accepted me this symbol appeared on their lower stomachs,” Lock explained while raising a hand to create the symbol with his flames.

“This symbol is a sign of those who are my mates. As I explained to Wulfirc whomever I mate with, and they accept me, a piece of my soul enters them and a piece of theirs enters mine. In other words you could say this ritual is similar to marriage which is why I’m now Beorn and Apple Jewel’s godfather. So my question to you three is this, why me? And would you two be truly willing to accept me as your mate as well?” Lock asks.

"Call it...curiousity." Celestia replied.

"You see we've been so busy in our royal duties that we've barely had time for each other plus..." she paused guiding his hand to her left breast.

"You owe me for saving you from the maids~."

Once again, as soon as his hand made contact with her bosom and gave a crooked grin as he felt her softness. The Celestia from his world was never quite this open or quite this bold when it came to intimate relationships.

“And you are sure you can handle the Devil’s Hand, little princess?” He asked trying to sound smug

"The real question is: can you handle me?" Celestia growled before pinning him to the wall with great strength.

"Marshall is able to handle us through much physical training and a few herbal supplements here and there. You see during our honeymoon..." She leaned to whisper in his ear.

"My sister and I nearly rode him to death~"

Lock responded by reaching down and squeezing both the sun Princess’s cutie marks making her moan with her mouth open and seized this opportunity to capture her lips surprising her as he spun around and pinned her to the wall with greater force and power. As their tongues battled for dominance, Lock breathed out through his nose a pink mist that Celestia inhaled, the affects were instantaneous as her eyes became glazed and bright blush spread across her muzzle. Drips of liquid could be heard and when Luna and Marshall looked down they saw a small puddle form under Celestia’s legs as she trembled in utter delight. Lock released Celestia’s lips and she was panting quite heavily as the mists effects became more clear making her nipples poke through her dress as she stared dreamily into his amber eyes.

“A little something to prove my worth to you, my little princess,” he purred making her swoon.

“The same can be done for you as well, little moon princess,” he adds glancing at Luna.

"Uh uh uh." The princess teased, wagging her finger.

"Tonight, royal bed chambers.~"

Luna walked off with a sway in her hips, showing off the curves of her body and was soon followed by Celestia who blew a kiss to her two studs and even smacked her own flank making Marshall flush pink with a sigh.

"Aren't they wonderful?" The lord regent said in bewilderment before hearing the sound of fingers snapping.

“You should know that little pink mist I gave her was a powerful aphrodisiac that’ll leave her hot and bothered for the rest of the day. So just get ready for the hardest battle you’ll face, your pelvis is gonna need it,” Lock jokes as he leaves Marshall with a pale face.

End.

Inner Demons Part 1

As Lock returned to the council room, Lucifer was showing everyone the memory of his battle with the Overlord of the Crystal Empire. No one dared tear their eyes away as they watched a battle some say would be between titans, It was so intense that the roof of the throne room was blown off and the blizzard was raging as the two combatants stared each other down.

The Overlord was a possessed Caribou wearing dark, spiked armor that had cracks and tears in it with blood pooling out as he seethed at Lock who had his fare share of wounds with Surtr and Ymir drawn, the red blade being engulfed in Hellfire and the blue blade covered in shards of ice.

“I WILL RIP THE FLESH OFF YOUR BONES!!!” The Overlord bellowed as he charged at Lock with orbs of dark magic.

“Not if I kill you first...” Lock replied in a cold voice as the ice on Ymir began to harden into a crude edge.

He then got into a position with his swords out in front of him as flames and ice from his swords covered both halves of his body and wings. Lock then spread his wings out and up as he flapped them as hard as he could while also spinning like a top and his words held straight out. The crowd continued to watch as Lock became a tornado of fire and ice as he hurled towards his opponent at great speed.

“ICE FIRE DRAGON ASCENSION!!!!”

Lock’s attack rammed into the Overlord as they flew high into the air with his foe screaming in pain as he tore straight through him. Lock then stopped spinning in mid air as he hovered in the clouds as the body of the Overlord fell. The crowd gazed at the memory of Lock with his feathered wings, one being covered in ice and the other in Hellfire, as Lock looked back as if he was starring at everyone panting heavily.

“The Devil always collects what he’s owed,” His past self said as the memory faded.

"So this is the kind of power uncle has." Said Apple Jewel staring in bewilderment while Wulfric focused on the display of swordsmanship his friend possessed.

"Hmm a bit flashy but not bad."

“I see you all are enjoying my fight against Lust,” Lock said gaining everyone’s attention.

“Ah, Dimitri, the little ones insisted I showed them a little of your past successes and I figured I would show them your recent victory.” Lucifer said with a smirk.

“It was a tough one, that’s for damn sure.” Lock chuckled. Suddenly a cyan blue blue blur rammed him onto the ground as he looked up to see Rainbow Dash smiling widely with stars in her eyes.

“I take it you enjoyed the memory?” Lock chuckled.

"That was awesome!!" Rainbow squealed while smooshing her face.

"Now Rainbow take it easy. You got precious cargo now." Applejack lectured as she hovered down.

“As touching as this all is, I’m afraid time is almost at an end for your visit old king,” Lucifer said making the old king sigh.

“I suppose so, come little ones and give your Grandstag one last hug,” the old king said. Not wasting any time, the children quickly walked over to the old king as they embraced him in a group hug.

“Wulfirc, you’ve made me the proudest stag a father could ever be. Continue to lead our people with all you’ve learned and I look forward to the day when you join me and your ancestors at Odin’s great table of King’s in Valhalla,” The old king said with a proud smile as he placed a hand on his sons shoulder.

"Goodbye father..." Wulfric said with one last tear in his eye.

“Beorn, remember what I told you about your berserker state and keep training your mind and body. You must control that power if you ever hope to succeed your father.” the old king said as he tussled Beorn’s head.

"Grandpa!" The young buck whined with a smile as his fur was ruffled.

“Old one, it is time,” Lucifer said as he summoned the door.

The old king nodded and broke the group hug. He then turns and walks to the door as it opens and the horns of the valkyries could be heard and it sent chills down everyone’s spine. The old king stopped and looked over his shoulder to see his family all have tears in his eyes as he gives them one last smile.

“May Odin continue to smile upon you all,” was the last he said before walking through as the door shut and disappeared.

Lock walked up beside his friend and placed a hand on his shoulder as he was wiping his eyes.

“You gonna be ok, man?” Lock asked.

"....yes. i'll be fine." Wulfric said with a smile as the last tear fell from his face.

“I hope there to be no more tension between the two of us, young Wulfirc,” Lucifer said.

“I may be the ruler of Hell by I like to see myself as a voice of reason from time to time. Your father certainly seemed to think so after I discussed with him about your current predicament.”

"Don't think this changes anything, I still don't trust you." Wulfric replied bluntly as they left the room.

"Now to make preparations. The whole city's gonna be in an uproar over the big announcement."

“That goes double for me,” Lock said referring to his status as godfather.

“And what of you Chrysalis?” he asked turning to the Changeling Queen who gave him lidded eyes immediately.

“What are you gonna do during your stay here? Still gonna try to convince Wulfirc to let Crysta and Beorn wed?”

"But of course. It's for the sake of our kingdoms." She admitted with a smirk behind her fan.

“Well good luck with that,” Lock said as he left the room with Apple Jewel following him part of the way.

“Where are you going Uncle Lock?”

“Don’t worry about me, kiddo, I’m gonna head to the training yard to get my daily workout out of the way,” Lock said waving his hand.

“Gotta get these new pair of wings of mine in shape you know.”

As Lock exited the room, Applejack and Rainbow followed after Wulfirc with their children close behind, leaving just the group of Changelings and Lucifer in the room as the devil walked up beside Chrysalis with his hands behind his back.

“Your motives are just and are of good intent,” Lucifer said.

“Yet you did not tell them the full story, why is that?”

"My reasons are my own demon." The queen responded before taking her leave.

Lucifer chuckled as he looked out the window and across the horizon.

“You delude yourself with your foolish quest of revenge. Now that my Hand is here I shall take great joy in tasking him to collect your soul as well, King of the Windigos,” Lucifer said to himself before vanishing in a burst of flames.

“Ugh, damn things…This is gonna take some getting used to.”

Lock was on his way to the training yard while also trying to furl his second pair of webbed wings properly under his feathered ones. As he neared the training yard, he spotted Imperius sparring with the other squires and smiled walking over to greet them.

“Hey Imperius!” He said gaining the prince’s attention.

"Oh good morning sir."

The two met under the balcony overlooking the courtyard where the prince finally noticed his new appearance.

"Did you run into Discord?"

“Heh, no I didn’t. You could say someone I work for did this to me, the eyes included,” Lock said pointing at his amber eyes.

Seriously need to ask about Discord later, He thought you himself.

“So Imperius I heard you’ve been doing some training with Beorn under the watch of your old man, that true?” He asks and Imperius nods proudly.

“Well I actually came to the training grounds for a little workout, wanna join me and show me what you’ve learned?”

"Sure!" The prince sounded excited in his response and couldn't wait to see Lock in action.

After finding an open spot, Imperius noticed Top Notch fetching water from the nearby well and having a rather difficult time doing it.

"Fetch water they said!" He grumbled to himself.

"No need for magic, they said! Of all the ridiculous-DOH!!"

SPLOOSH

"OH hang it all!!"

The young colt found himself nearly dragged into the well by the bucket while the other cadets laughed, even Imperius couldn't help but let out a snicker.

"Hang it all!!"

Top Notch's misfortune would continue as the bucket was finally brought before splashing him in the face making him cough and sputter and he felt something tug on his leg.

"Oh now what?!? Now what?!?" The squire looked down to see the chain to the bucket wrapped slightly around his ankle.

"L-LEAVE OFF! LEAVE OFF!! You...you fiendish CHAIN YOU!!"

Having won the battle with the well, the young unicorn stormed off towards the stables with some of the cadets still snickering at his now soaked form.

“Poor kid,” Lock chuckled as he walked over to Top Notch with Imperius following close behind. As they approached, Top Notch noticed his prince and his eyes widen before he straightened himself up and saluted.

"Good morning sire!"

"Easy notch, i'm not in command yet."

"Right."

As top notch wringed out his clothes, Imperius noticed he had a scrub brush with him and what looked to be a bottle of pet shampoo.

"Your turn to give the pups a bath?"

"Unfortunately, yes."

“Pups?” Lock wondered.

"Oh yeah. Since the founding of the alliance, the ranger corps gets a litter of pups each year from up north."

"Sadly, I have the honor of bathing two of the most rowdiest pups in the litter."

"Wait. You don't mean?"

"Sköll and Håti; the pride of the kings dire wolves."

“The wolves that chase the sun and moon, fitting names,” Lock stated.

“So where are the rambunctious little fur balls?”

At that moment a loud crash was heard followed by the sound of puppy barking.

"PUPS ON THE LOOSE!!" Shouted the stable hand as two large pups began running around the courtyard.

"Not again..." the prince sighed as he watched the two pups run around with the guards and cadets trying to catch them.

Lock was quick to act as he spread both pairs of wings, startling both Imperius and Top Notch before he gave a sharp flap and dove for the pups, scooping them up instantly. Lock skidded across the ground with the pups in his arms as they looked up at him with adorable looking eyes and panting happily.

“Now who said that you two can cause trouble, huh?” Lock teases as he scratched them both behind their ears.

Sköll was the more energetic of the pair as he squirmed to escape locks grip but ceased the moment he heard large footsteps approaching.

"Ohh dear." Imperius said as he and Top Notch stepped back for a large female wolf with a snowy white coat and scars on her face and as she passed through, many of the soldiers bowed their heads in respect while others backed away in awe of the majestic beast.

Lock, feeling in a rather playful yet foolish mood, put Håti down as the wolf approached them before also getting down on one knee, as the wolf stood before him and her pups stood by her side. Lock then glanced at Imperius and winked as he transformed into his wolf form, shocking the others.

Thanks to Lucifer’s help, Lock’s wolf form seemed to grow in size as well. When he looked up at the white wolf from his bow, he slowly stood up and met her at eye level, even his body was more toned. The white wolf stared into Lock’s amber eyes as he stared into hers before she sniffed him curiously.

“Greetings, Lady White Wolf,” Lock barked in wolf speech with a curt nod.

“It is an honor to make your acquaintance.”

"My name is Arya" The matriarch growled back.

"Forgive my children, they are still pups after all."

Arya nuzzled her little ones with affection before allowing them to run back to the stables.

"Ten years old and they still cause trouble."

“Children tend to always cause trouble, regardless of age,” Dimitri growled playfully.

“My name is Dimitri, you seem to adorn many scars, Lady Arya. A pity for a wolf as beautiful as yourself.”

"I take pride in them." she boasted.

"They are a symbol of devotion to my master."

“Your devotion is very admirable,” Dimitri replied with flattery.

“Wulfric is lucky to have someone like you by his side. Meanwhile I fight demons and power crazed tyrants as the Hand of the Devil with no one besides my apprentices. It sometimes gets lonely but a duty must be done for the sake of others.”

"I'm sure it does. Now if you'll excuse me, I must make sure my children take their baths."

Arya returned to the stables with the soldiers still showing her the proper respect she deserved.

"You just...talked to her." Imperius said in shock as he transformed back.

“That I did,” Lock replied casually while dusting himself off.

“She’s quite the proud one, that’s for sure. I can sense the amount of strength she has.”

Lock looked at Imperius and Top Notch who were still slack jawed making him quirk a brow.

“What?”

"You do realize she is the matriarch of the pack right?" Top Notch asked before making a statement.

"She could've killed you!!"

“Huh, well she didn’t seem like it to me,” Lock shrugged.

“We just talked about her pups and I gave her a compliment or two and she seemed alright with me, no biggie.”

Both just stared bewildered before a drill instructor grabbed Top Notch by the collar and dragged him back to the stables.

"Move it rookie! Those fleas aren't gonna clean themselves off!!"

“You know, if I ever get the chance, remind me to ask Arya to join her the next time she goes to her pack next time I see her,” Lock said rubbing his chin.

“I’ve kinda always wanted to know what it felt like to run with wolves.”

"You are a strange one." The prince stated after facepalming himself.

“I know,” Lock said with a grin before walking over to a bench and remove his upper clothing. Once done and left bare chested, the whole area seemed to stop as they gazed at the tribal brands on his arms and chest.

For the stallions and bucks they gazed in awe of them and the many battle scars he adorned along his back and chest and some winced at how deep the large one was that went from one corner of his back to the other on his hip. As Lock stretched his body, the mares and does went slack jawed and some drooled at his bulging muscles every time he spread his arms, more so they swooned and shuddered when he spread both pairs of his wings. Another thing about Lucifer’s repair of his soul is that his body seemed to have a lot more girth of muscle to it along with his height. Lock then noticed how Imperius was starring slack jawed once again at his body which made him smirk.

“This, Imperius, this is what the progress of hard work and devotion to sharpen your skill. But that’s not all, each scar is a story, this one especially,” Lock said pointing to the one on his back.

“It’s the one scar that almost cost me my very life but that’s a story for another time. If you devote yourself to your training long enough you’re guaranteed to make quite the name for yourself as your father has. Maybe you’ll have a scar or two yourself and tell how you got them to those who follow you one day.”

"Actually...my father doesn't like talking about the war that much." Imperius said as his expression dimmed a bit.

"The great war really took a lot out of him."

Lock paused for a moment and lost his smirk, he then rubbed the back of his head feeling abased about bringing an obvious sensitive subject up.

“Hey, listen kid, I may not seem it but since you mentioned that I can understand how your old man feels,” he said gaining Imperius’s attention. Little did they know, a pair of royal mares were passing by and stopped when they heard Lock.

“You do?” Imperius asked.

“Yup, your father may have a case of PTSD,” Lock said walking over to Imperius.

“PTSD? What’s that?” The prince asked as Lock crossed his arms.

“Post traumatic stress disorder, it’s a mental health condition that's triggered by a terrifying event either experiencing it or witnessing it, much like war. Tell me, have you ever heard from your father mention him not getting enough sleep? Or do you recall him, for example, excusing himself to be alone from time?” Lock asks as he looked at Imperius.

"Well he does sit alone in the garden sometimes." The prince admitted.

“As I thought,” Lock sighed.

“If you’re wondering how I know, just look at my eyes, they may be a different color, but do you notice anything that differs from the other?”

At first both eyes appeared the same until a fly landed on Locks right eye without him blinking.

"You...lost one of your eyes?"

“I did,” Lock said as he put a hand over the right side of his face. His flames flickered a bit until he put his hand down making him gasp, along with the two hidden Princesses who could see from the corner of the door.

A huge scar went across his eye that looked like it should have split his skull in two, the fake eye was still there but looked as lifeless as his other eye.

“Back in my world; the human world, I was a military man. I fought for my country and served with a platoon of men I considered brothers, then one day a mission went bad and they all tragically lost their lives but I survived, barely. But my eye isn’t the only thing about me. I had shrapnel in my brain, there was at least a dozen screws in my arms and legs and one of my organs had to be surgically removed because of how ruptured it was, when I recovered physically and was discharged I was mentally unstable for many years and I admittedly had to be put on watch because there was a time I thought of claiming my own life. My boss healed my more serious injuries making me whole again but the scars, both physically and mentally, have literally and figuratively imprinted themselves on me and will remain for the rest of my life, just like this scar and my fake eye. You see Imperius, I’ve been seeing the past in one eye and the present in the other. So I thought I could only see patches of reality, never the whole picture.”

“Why are you telling me this?” Imperius wonders, unable to look away from Lock’s fake eye.

“For years I felt like I was a dream I’d never wake up from, before I knew it the dream was all over. Your father is going through the same thing since he’s still got both his eyes. For 10 years he’s been reliving the horrors of war, and it seems he can’t really let go which is why he sometimes distances himself so he won’t let you see him when he’s seeing the past again.”

It was then, that Luna and Celestia realize what there husband was going through for he had served on both sides of the war and had witnessed and done many horrible things.

"Sister?"

"I know Luna...let us go see our husband."

“But enough gloom for now,” Lock said as he stood up and used his flames to hide his scar.

“I wanna see what the Lord Regent taught you, so grab a practice sword and show me what you got,” he said with his smirk returning.

"Actually I prefer this." The prince replied as he grabbed a quarter staff and began twirling it around to show off his skill.

“Very well, if you’re gonna use that,” Lock said as he picked up two practice swords.

“Then I hope you won’t mind if I use two instead of one.”

Both squared off in the center of the courtyard with all the recruits watching, expecting another epic duel like Prince Beorn. Lock twirled his swords, while keeping his wings furled for a fair fight before lunging at Imperius with his swords crossed on each side.

"Oh one more thing." The prince smirked as he pushed against his opponent.

"Father didn't train me....mother did!!"

The prince pushed Lock back with a strong enough shove to get some distance before using his staff to pole vault forward to deliver a double heeled kick and a sweeping strike towards the torso.

Lock grunted after he felt Imperius’s feet slam into his chest and skidded back but then smirked as he took a stance once more. When Imperius went for another pole vault Lock met his attack with a jump of his own and spun in mid air before spreading his legs out wide and dodging the attack.

"A little advice kid. Never use the same move twice!" Dimitri lectured before landing a kick in his side making him tumble across the ground and landing after a perfect sommersault. Imperius shook his head before holding his staff forward and looked at his opponent who began to take a strange stance as he held his swords in front of him in what appeared to be a thrusting stance.

“TWO SWORD STYLE, RHINO REVOLVE!” Lock shouted as he spin-slashes around himself in an instant.

The young prince was able to parry the attack and took to the air in hopes of gaining an advantage yet as quickly as he took to the skies, he spotted Lock baring down on him at breakneck speed and forcing him into a one sided dogfight.

“Nice move kid but you'll need a few more notches on your belt to take me in the air!!” Lock said as he lunged at Imperius through the air with a barrage of attacks that riddled the young princes body when by accident, he hit a soft spot on the princes back that made his wings go stiff.

Imperius cried out in pain as his wings went limp and fell to the ground. The prince clenched his eyes bracing for impact but then felt something grab his shirt from behind. He slowly opened his eyes and saw he was hovering a few inches from the ground and when he looked behind him he saw Lock carrying him in mid air.

“Pressure points, quite handy if you ask me,” Lock said as he let him down gently.

Imperius got up and looked at his wings and tried to move them but they just hung there and felt numb.

“Don’t worry about your wings, kid,” Lock said making him turn to him as he landed.

“You’ll feel them soon in an hour or so, now let’s continue, shall we?” Lock said as he took his stance.

Imperius nodded and twirled his staff and both combatants charged at each other. Imperius twisted and turned trying to land a blow on Lock but missed almost every attack.

“Your mother taught you well, kid,” Lock said as he blocked an overhead strike.

“But have you ever experienced real pain?” Lock said as he swiped Imperius’s staff to the side and raised his fist making the princes eyes widen.

The moment the fist was about to make impact, the prince caught Lock off guard with a judo flip that caused him to lose one of his swords which Imperius kicked to the side.

"As a matter of fact, I have." He said with a grin as lock shook his head from feeling dizzy.

“Not bad,” Lock smirked as he picked up his sword.

“But let’s see how you like this.”

Lock then changes his stance again as he holds his two swords horizontally above his shoulder.

“TWO SWORD STYLE, PHOENIX WING SLASH!”

Lock attacked with a circular swing that sent two air compressed projectiles spiraling towards Imperius who braced for impact as his wings were still numb from the previous attack.

"THAT'S CHEATING!!!" He cried out before he was knocked off his feet and disarmed.

“On the contrary,” Lock said straightening himself out and twirling his swords.

“That was not magic or any kind of power, it was a sword skill and it was totally legal.” he said as he placed his swords down and helped the prince to stand.

As the prince got up, his whole body felt sore from hitting the ground while a few joints in his spine and wings began to pop.

"Ow..."

“Heh, that took a lot out of you didn’t it?” Lock snorted.

“Here, allow me,” he said as he engulfed his hands in Hellfire that circled Imperius and began healing his injuries. The bruises and pressured joints all faded away and came loose making him sigh contently as he was healed.

“There we are, good as new.”

"Thanks. My body is still stiff from that bandit attack."

The two proceeded to put the training gear away and repair any damages done to the courtyard. While most would be impressed by such a humble display from royalty, the nobles who had come to the castle that day found itmdisgusting.

"Unthinkable! A prince doing manual labor?" A baron scoffed turning his nose up.

“Jeez, these nobles sure got those sticks up their butts pretty far huh?“ Lock snorts as he places the practice weapons on the rack and puts his upper clothing back on.

"It's not that bad, most times they try to introduce me to their daughters. Which is why i'm terrified of girls." The prince replied while dusting himself off.

Lock then gained a confidant smirk and spotted a mare amongst the recruits recruit who had light brown fur, dark pink mane and tail both styled in a braid, and her eyes were a normal green.

“Excuse me!” Lock called out to the recruit and she looked towards him.

“Can you please come here for a moment?” The recruit tilted her head and complied as she walked towards them. Once she was standing before them she was admittedly quite the looker.

“Hello there, young mare, what’s your name?”

"Oh. My name's Gumdrop but my friends call me 'Gummy'." The mare said with a cheerful smile.

“Nice to meet you, Gummy,” He said with a smile.

“You obviously know Prince Imperius, yes?” She nods while smiling cheerfully at the prince making him blush.

“Well how’s about you spend the day with him? With his permission of course.”

"Now hold on a minute!" The prince protested before she grabbed his arm.

"Sure! That sounds fun!"

“Come on Imperius, look at her,” Lock whispered.

“She’s cute, she's around your age, she’s got a kind smile, and most importantly she’s not a noble. Just your average mare here training like everyone else, like you! You say you’re terrified of girls but can you honestly say she looks as intimidating as you think?”

Before the colt could object any further, Gumdrop began dragging him out of the court with a surprising amount of strength that astounded some of the drill sergeants.

"But I got training!" Imperius shouted as he was dragged away.

“Just remember, Imperius!” Lock called out.

“She’s just like you and me so relax! And Gummy, make sure you treat him like any other colt!”

"I will!" She shouted waving goodbye.

After an afternoon of exercise, Dimitri headed to the castle gardens for a quick nap when he spotted Marshall sitting alone with a frazzled mane and a fatigued expression as he brought out a small flask from his vest to take a swig.

"Bucking memories...."

End.

Inner Demons part 2

Marshall sat there in the gardens holding his head as the memories of the great war came flooding back into his mind. Screams of soldiers dying filled his ears followed by the sounds of battle and death, then he began to see flames surround him on all sides and the visions only grew worse.

"Stop it..." he whispered angrily as the sounds grew louder, unaware that his wives were right behind him.

"Marshall?" Celestia called out as he began to pant frantically before taking another swig.

"Husband?" Luna reached out to touch his shoulder when she accidentally knocked over a flower vase and startled him.

"WHO'S THERE?!?" The lord reagent shouted as he drew his sword startling them both.

"No! Marshall it's us!!" Celestia shouted while putting up a barrier.

For a moment, Marshall stood there for about a minute, frozen like a statue as he held his sword in one hand and his flask in another. He then shook his head and snorted as he sheathed his sword and turned his back to his wives.

“Shouldn’t you two be in the council room?” He dismissed taking a small sip.

"The council ended early. What happened? You looked sick." Said Celestia as the barrier faded and approached him from behind.

"I-i'm fine..." he stuttered before she turned him around and saw how ragged he looked.

His mane was scruffy and his complexion was a bit pale, to make matters worse he had bags under his eyes showing he had barely gotten any sleep.

"Husband what happened to you?" Luna inquired after seeing him for herself.

"I....I haven't been sleeping well for the past couple of days..." he admitted before sitting down.

“But why?” Celestia asked but Marshall looked away.

“Just…my nerves is all.” He answered.

“You’re lying.”

“I am not.”

“Yes you are, husband.” Luna said.

“I said I’m not.” Marshall insists while clenching his fist.

“Marshall-”

“I SAID I’M NOT LYING SO QUIT PESTERING ME!” Marshal barked, startling Celestia and Luna at his outburst.

"Oh geeze...i'm sorry I didn't..." he tried apologizing when Celestia held his hand.

"Darling please. What's wrong?" She pleaded.

"I...i've been getting flashbacks ever since the war started." He admitted putting the flask away.

“Flashbacks? From what?” Luna wonders.

“…The Fall.” Marshall muttered, making their eyes widen.

“My blade has spilled the blood of many and their ghosts have come back to haunt me. I even remember each of their faces, some of them young colts. I took their lives without mercy and I convinced myself that they deserved their fate for betraying Equestria. Now it’s as if their spirits wish to drive me mad with guilt, which I can only compensate by drowning myself with drink.”

"So that's why you were never in the dream realm. Why didn't you tell us?"

"I COULDN'T!!" He shouted slamming his fist against the concrete bench.

"I didn't want you to see me like this...so weak and pathetic..."

“But darling, we would never see you as such.” Celestia pleaded.

“But others would!” Marshall snapped.

“I’m supposed to be the Lord Regent of Equestria, an example of what it means to be a protector of this great nation! But instead I’m nothing but a fraud clad in armor! What kind of warrior subjugates himself to drinking and avoiding his own family?! Those colts…” Marshall said as he gripped his head.

“Those poor colts who were blinded by that bastard Dainn’s lies, they probably could have been reformed and brought back to our side! BUT I MURDERED THEM!” Marshall shouted as he stood up and unclipped his sword and scabbard from his belt. He then looked at Luna with nothing but pain in his eye.

“You gave me this sword.....But I do not deserve it…” he said as he dropped it to the ground.

Luna looked down at the discarded blade and saw her reflection in the pommel. A feint smile appeared as she gently picked up the sword before unsheathing it.

"Do you remember why I gave you this sword?" She asks nostalgically.

"You fought and bled for me that night with all the qualities of a true knight; a knight whom I am happy to call my husband."

"And mine as well." Celestia added before holding his chin up.

"Dear you must remember. Those men chose their side in that war and that fate was of their own doing, not yours."

“But what about their fate?” Marshall questions.

“I saw the looks in their eyes, the fear of death as I slashed them away. No matter how much I want to forget, they always come back to haunt me. I envy that Lockdrom, he fights the Dainn from his reality all on his own and has probably slayed dozens if not hundreds of Caribou and traitors and yet he still holds his head up high and continues to walk forward. If anything, he’s twice the man I probably ever will be…”

"Perhaps he puts on a brave face as much as you do." Celestia responded.

"He needs to appear brave and strong for others but deep down....I think it eats at him every day."

“What makes you say that? I saw how he fought Beorn, I could sense his skill, he was holding back drastically when they sparred. A man like him, with power and strength to rival arguably the gods themselves, why in creation would he put on a brave face when he’s strong as he already is?” Marshall argued.

"Because like you he is a soldier." She replied while handing back his sword.

"He must be strong for the sake of his troops just like you must be strong for the sake of our children."

“Our children…” Marshall repeats as he looked down at his sword.

“Imperius, my son, I want him to be a strong stallion who I’ll always be proud of. Selene, my little girl, she’s as smart and beautiful as her mother. She even fell for that winged human of all creatures and I couldn’t be happier for her.” Marshall was silent for a moment as his ears dropped and pinned to his head hand his tail sagged.

“I…don’t wish to suffer anymore.” He whispered as a lone tear fell from his eye.

Celestia seized this moment to kiss her beloved with a gentle smile as she told him.

"You don't have to. You can always tell us what troubles you."

"For better or worse, remember?" Luna said, reminding them of their vows before taking the flask out of his pocket.

"And no more drinking. There are..."other" ways to relieve stress~." She hinted while tucking the flask into her chest.

“Oh?” Marshall smirked.

“I see that little gift Lock dosed you with is starting to show again.”

"Oh that wore off hours ago darling. Now let's get you to bed, you need rest."

"But i'm not tired." The lord regent stated when Celestia wrapped her arms around him repeating.

"You need rest~."

"Oh. Ohhh."

Meanwhile, as the Lord Regent was being comforted by his lovely wives, Selene was happily skipping down the halls. Lock’s question from before startled her but it did open up a new level of confidence in her heart.

He’s so kind. She sighed in her head.

And those wings…oh how I wish he’d wrap them around me. I’d want to stay embraced by him forever.

It was then Selene caught a glimpse of her brother being dragged by one of the female recruits which made her quirk a brow and approach them before they walked out of view.

“Imperius, who’s this? And why is she dragging you around like a sack of potatoes?” She wondered.

"It's a long story..." he replied to his sister with a deadpan expression.

“Hiya Princess! My name’s Gumdrop, but you can call me Gummy! I’m hanging out with Imperius today!” Gummy chirped.

"Really?" Selene said with a grin.

"And where are you two headed in such a hurry?"

“Dunno! I was just assigned to hang out with Imperius for the day and see where it takes us! Wanna join?” Gummy offers.

“Now wait a minute! She doesn’t have to if she doesn’t want to!” Imperius said but the two young mares ignored him.

"I'd be delighted! I can tell you ALL about my little brother!"

"This is payback for earlier. Isn't it?"

“Oh you have no idea.” Selene smirked. For the rest of the day, the three children walked and talked with each other, Selene and Gummy doing most of the talking.

“And then Imperius tried to make a cake for mother but ended up turning it into a pile of mush!” Selene said.

“Hahahahaha! Seriously? He couldn’t even bake a simple cake?” Gummy laughed.

Imperius sat there completely humiliated as he tried using his wings to cover his face.

"I just forgot the flour!" He shouted with a pink blush on his cheeks.

“Aw it’s ok Imperius.” Gummy said as she gently wrapped her arm around Imperius, bringing him into a comforting hug.

“You know we’re only just teasing. If it helps, my most embarrassing moment is when I tried to fire my first arrow with a bow.”

“What happened?” Selene wondered.

“I accidentally smacked myself in my face and almost shot my hoof.” Gummy said sheepishly.

“Guess you needed to actually grip the bow when firing, but I didn’t know that.”

"Seriously?" The prince wonders before one of the servants walked up to them.

"Ah there you are children. We must head back to the courtyard, the party will be starting soon."

"Oh right. Uncle Wulfrics big announcement." Selene stated as they began to follow.

“So Selene.” Gummy said as she smiled coyly at the Princess.

“I hear you’ve taken a fancy for a certain human? Is that true?”

"Oh you must mean Dimitri." Imperius replied with the same grin his sister had.

"Let me tell you ALL about it.

Meanwhile

In the royal bedchamber, things were getting steamy between the three lovers as Marshall pressed Celestia against the bedroom window after exposing her chest and moving his hands up her dress.

"My my Celestia, your butt's a bit more squisy than usual~." He teased while squeezing her flank.

“Ahn! Ah! Oh Marshall! This is obscene!” Celesita cried as he drilled into her dripping snatch.

“What if, oh stars! Somepony sees!”

"Then let em look~." He replied before turning her around and pressing her against the wall.

"Mmm I don't deserve you girls." He sighs while bucking her in a steady rhythm.

Celestia smiles and kisses him deeply, their tongues coiling around each other before separating.

“Yes, hmm~, yes you do.” She said between thrusts.

“You’ll always deserve us, ah! Don’t ever doubt that. Now rut me like you deserve me~.” She purred wrapping her arms around him.

Marshall heeded his wifes command and plopped her on the bed, earning him a giggle before biting down on her right breast.

"Oh husband? Don't leave me out~." Teased Luna who was leaning forward eagerly waiting for him to undo her dress.

Instead of undoing it, Marshall reached over and tore her dress and bra, earning a yelp of surprise. He then reached between her legs and plunged two fingers deep in Luna’s pussy and wiggled them all around, making her cry out in pleasure. At the same time, he continued to thrust into Celestia and suckled on her breast and both mares filled the room with their cries of blissful pleasure.

"Mmm husband~." Luna purred in delight before feeling his teeth on her left tit.

"Yess~."

"Mmm we can't wait to have more babies with you~" Celestia said biting her lip in anticipation as she began to reach her limit.

“Yes, my love, neither can I.” Marshall said as he picked up the pace of his thrust and his own climax neared.

“So take my seed and give us another child!”

Celestia screamed to the heavens as she clutched her legs around his waist and arched her back in pure bliss feeling her husbands seed flow into her.

"Oh my...you haven't hah...done it like that since our honeymoon." Celestia panted with satisfaction while her husband collapsed on top of her.

Marshall was soon covered in a dark blue aura that pulled him off of Celestia, allowing his load to drool out of her pussy and was laid down on his back as his Lunar wife straddled him with lidded eyes and biting her bottom lip.

“I want another child as well, my love~.” Luna purred as she grinned on his hardening member.

"Mmm well you'll have to earn it." He teased.

"give me your best pose."

"Oh? What kind of pose?" She asks innocently.

"Sexy or...slutty?~"

“Slutty.” Marshall growled.

“Beg for it…”

Grinning at his challenge, Luna proceeded to bend over pulling down her now soaked panties and began spreading herself open for her husband and even began shaking her flank for good measure.

"Mmm come breed me Marshall~" she said in a sultry voice before sticking her tongue out like a cat.

“As you wish, my little kitty cat.” Marshall said as he lined himself up and jammed into Luna’s pussy with great force.

“AAAAHHHNNN!!!!!~” Luna cried as her husband began to pound her and pull her tail.

“You like that?” He whispered as he reached under and grabbed both of her generous bosoms.

“You want me to breed you again? To give Selene another sibling?”

"Ohhh more than anything~" she shuttered feeling him push into her over and over.

Celestia smirked at the display while taking a sip from her husbands flask when an idea popped into her head.

"Marshall dear, could you turn Luna over real quick?"

Marshall arched a brow but complied and turned Luna over on her back while still thrusting into her.

“Now what, Tia?” He wondered.

Grinning with anticipation, Celestia poured the remaining contents of the flask onto her sisters chest while Luna gasped from the sensation of the cold liquid now drenching her.

"Drink up big boy~."

Marshall smiled wickedly and leaned down and started licking Luna all over her breasts and sucked on her erect nipple, making her quiver all over as the walls of her pussy twitched around his shaft while he continued to plow her. Marshall then gave a long lick from just below her chest and trailed it up all the way to her lips where they engaged in a sloppy make out session, sharing the drink he had just licked up.

“Mmm, delicious…” he purred and started to thrust harder than before.

“I’m going to release soon, my sweet star! I want to make sure you get pregnant again, so take all my seed just like your dear sister!”

Luna shuddered as she felt his thrusts grow more tense with each passing second making her eyes roll back and grit her teeth before they kissed once more.

"Harder husband!! HARDER!!" She grunted as Marshall pinned her to the bed.

Marshal responded by grabbing both her ankles and jackhammered into her, making her scream in utter bliss. Meanwhile, Celestia was fingering her filled pussy and groping her breasts at the display of her sister getting mercilessly plowed.

“Here it comes, Luna!” Marshal called out as the tension in his groin grew.

Luna screamed as she was filled to the brim, her legs shot up straight into the air while her husband bit down on her shoulder like a beast clinging to his mate.

"Rrrr yesss~" Luna hissed as she felt his teeth sink into her.

"My my what a beast you are~." Celestia teased before Luna was finally released.

Marshall collapsed on his back, panting heavily, as Celestia and Luna crawled up on both his sides and snuggled into his chest.

“I love you both, so much.” He said.

“We love you too.” Both Princesses replied.

“Thank you both for being with me in my time of grief. I promise to better myself for the days to come.” Marshall said as he held his lovers close.

“Of course, my love, and if you wish to share experiences I’m sure Dimitri would be willing to lend an ear.” Luna suggests.

“Hmm, I may take you up on that.” He replied when a knock came on the door.

"Excuse me your majesties but it's time for the party."

End.

Party Crashers

It was late in the evening and the nobles of Canterlot, along with the Barons of the North, all gathered together in the royal ballroom. Celestia and Luna were both greeting the noble families with Marshall while Wulfirc and his wives we’re preparing to announce the big news.

Meanwhile, the children were hanging out with one another and surprisingly, Gummy was with them wearing her own dress. She wore a simple forest green dress and even let her hair and tail down. One would not recognize the young recruit because of how pretty she looked. While the party was going on, a certain human was no where to be seen. Before Wulfric and his family set off for the party, Lock simply said that he had to take care of something important but would return in time before Wulfric made his big announcement.

“It’s almost time.” Rainbow said as she scanned the room for Lock.

“You don’t think he bailed, do you?” She asked Applejack and Wulfric.

"He better not." Grumbled Applejack as her husband rubbed her belly.

"He'll be here love."

“My lord and ladies, it is time.” A servant said.

“Can we wait just a little longer?” Applejack asks.

“I’m afraid not, my lady.”

Just when Wulfirc was about to step forward with his wives, the doors opened with a loud enough bang gaining everyone’s attention. Dressed in a black and red tuxedo with a silver bow tie, Dimitri walked in with a hand in his pocket and both pairs of wings spread out wide. He then made his way to Wulfric and his wives with a small smirk, occasionally glancing at some mares winking at him.

“Evening Wulfric, ladies.” Lock greeted as he furled his wings back.

“Sorry I’m late, had to take care of something important.”

"About time." Wulfric huffed as he stepped forward to begin the announcement.

"Everyone. Thank you for coming this evening." He said with gratitude in his voice.

"Sorry for the late invitations but my family and I have big news." He paused to let his wives come forward and sure enough, all could see their swelling bellies as a mix of surprised gasps filled the room for a moment.

"It is as you see. Both my beloved Applejack and Rainbow Dash are once again carrying new children. Soon my family will have three new additions as Rainbow is carrying twins."

The crowd immediately applauded the big announcement with happy smiles and raised glasses.

“But what of the human that is standing with you?” A Baron asked curiously.

"Ah yes. This is Dimitri, an adventurer who recently became our guest here in the castle. Over the past two weeks he has become a good friend and my children have grown quite fond of him, that is why i'm appointing him as their godfather and protector."

Lock gulped and stepped forward to face the crowd and cleared his throat.

“Good evening everyone.” Lock said in a polite tone before swarms of press ponies bombarded him with questions and flashing lights from their cameras.

“Is it true you’re the new godfather of the family?!”

“Where exactly did you come from?!”

“Why did he name you godfather so soon?!”

“What is your relationship with Applejack and Rainbow Dash?!”

“Why do you have two pairs of wings instead of one?!”

"Everyone please." Celestia shouted slightly with her hand raised.

"We are here to celebrate, not create a ruckus. Now let us all enjoy the rest of the evening."

Lock sighed in relief and gave a silent thank you to Celestia. He then glanced over to where there were a few ponies playing music and got an idea as he made his way over to the band.

“Where are you going Dimitri?” Wulfirc wondered.

“To have some fun.” Lock said in reply when he spied a spare cello to the side and smiled as he grabbed it and sat in a free chair. The band members were confused at first, along with the rest of the crowd and royals, as he tuned the instrument. Lock then gave the audience one last look and smirked as he began to play a beautiful song.

Impressed by his skill, the other band members joined in and soon the whole room was filled by the melodious tune.

"Mmm what fine music." Said one of the party guests.

The band strummed away as the crowd swayed and some danced to the tune as Lock’s eyes remained closed and focused. Unbeknownst to him, many ponies had gathered around to listen as close as possible. The mares all had dreamy looks in their eye and the stallions smiled during his performance. Celestia and Luna were even taking turns dancing with Marshall along with the other party memebers. Wulfirc and his wives were still a little shocked he could play this well but still enjoyed the music nonetheless. Soon the song came to an end and Lock paused for a moment before opening his eyes again with a smile as he stood up, setting the cello to the side and put one hand behind his back and raising the other above his head and gave a courteous bow which resulted in a round of applause.

“Thank you, thank you all.” He said as he bowed.

Lock also gave the band a bow to which they returned and began playing their own music. The royals took this opportunity to approach as he met them half way.

“Hello everyone, I take it you enjoyed my little performance?” He said.

"Most impressive." Said Marshall offering him a glass of wine.

"You used to play before you were a soldier?"

“Eh, just a skill I picked up during my youth.” Dimitri said as he sipped his wine.

“I can also play the guitar. The boys back home always liked it when I sang to them before we went out on duty.”

“Excuse me.”

The royals and Dimitri turned around to see the cellist mare, Octavia Melody, dressed in a formal musicians attire.

“Ah, Miss Octavia, a pleasure to meet you again.” Celestia said.

“An honor, Princess.” Octavia said with a bow.

“I am most impressed of your skill with the cello. I have never heard or seen such skill before.”

“Why thank you, Miss Melody.” Dimitri said with a curt nod.

“I am pleased you admire my talent.”

“Perhaps you may indulge me in playing more songs later tonight?” Octavia asks.

“I don’t see why not?.” Lock said.

“Marvelous, well enjoy the rest of your night. You as well, your majesties.” Octavia said and left the group to rejoin the band.

The party continued on with the royals mingling with the party goers and words of praise and congratulations for Wulfirc and his family. Lock was merely off to the side with a glass of wine in his hand and made small talk to any pony who gave him the time. Meanwhile the children were still amongst themselves and talking with one another while Selene seemed lost in thought which Gummy and Apple Jewel seemed to notice.

“What’s wrong Selene?” Apple Jewel asked.

“Yeah, you seem a little sad.” Gummy added.

The princess only sighed in response as she watched the couples on the dance floor while the music played.

"Ohh I see." Said Gummy after putting the pieces together.

“I as well.” Apple Jewel added.

“You know Uncle Lock is standing over there.” She said, pointing at the human.

“Maybe ask him to dance with you?”

Selene glanced over to see Lock with a simple smile and a glass of wine in hand. It didn’t help the fact that there were other mares talking with him, nor how unfairly handsome he looked in that tuxedo, but how those mares were obviously trying to woo him due to the apparent bedroom eyes they were giving him.

“Sis.” Imperius spoke up.

“If you really like him, then you should actually go tell him.”

“I agree, mom always told Beorn and I to always be honest with ourselves.” Apple Jewel said.

“But I can’t.” Selene sighed.

“I’m not old enough to be with him.”

“So?” Beorn said.

“You shouldn’t let age tell you how you should feel. It’s also best if you speak your mind now, that way you can get the closure you obviously crave.”

“Yeah!” Gummy said.

“Besides, what’s the worst that can happen?”

At that moment, Dimitri walked up to her surprising everyone and offered his hand to her asking.

"Care to dance?"

Selene blushed and looked to her sibling and friends who ushered her to accept his offer, she smiles and placed her hand on Dimitri’s hand.

“I would love to.” Selene said.

Dimitri smiled and led her to the dancing area where they caught the attention of most in the room. Soon the band started to play a slow waltz dance. Dimitri released Selene’s hand and faced her and bowed respectfully and Selene curtsied back to him. Dimitri then stepped forward and took Selene’s left hand with his right and intertwined their fingers while he gently placed his left hand on her hip and her right hand on his shoulder. The pair then began to sway and dance to the music as they stared into each other’s eyes, not knowing the audience were watching their performance.

“You’re a human of many talents, Dimitri.” Selene commented.

“How did you learn to dance like this?”

“A gentleman must always be prepared to please a fine lady like yourself.” Dimitri said, earning a blush from the young princess.

On a nearby balcony, Marshall watched the party goers while helping himself to some cider and a few horderves from the buffet.

"Room for one more dear?" Called Celestia dressed in a stunning outfit no doubt made by Rarity.

“Always.” Marshall smiled as she wrapped an arm around his.

“It’s been quite eventful ever since he showed up.” He said as he watched his daughter dance with a wide and dreamy smile.

“To think, my little filly has found someone to love.”

“Indeed, they grow up so fast.” Celestia said as she eyed her son.

“Speaking of growing up.” She cooed as she nudged Marshall to look towards Imperius.

Come on Imperius. The prince thought in his head. If Selene can do it, why can’t I?

“Um…e-excuse me, G-Gummy?” Imperius stammered as Gummy looked to him.

“Yeah Imperius?” Gummy answered with a warm smile.

Wow, so cute… He thought but shook his head slightly.

“Would you…care to d-dance with…m-me?” Imperius asked, tripping over his words as he held a shaky hand out to the young mare.

"SURE!" Gummy squealed before dragging him back into the ballroom to dance.

"As expected from Pinkies daughter, full of energy." Marshall said with a smirk.

“Our little colt.” Celestia sighed proudly.

“I suppose we have Dimitri to thank for this. To think, he of all creatures would be able to give Imperius the confidence he needed.”

“I agree.” Marshall nodded.

The pair continued to watch the party with smiles all around. Back on the dance floor, Imperius was dancing with Gummy to the best of his ability and Lock was dancing with Selene. Both pairs smiling as the music played, that is until a few ponies emerged from the crowd. Wulfric, who was enjoying a pint of ale, recognized these ponies as diplomats from Saddle Arabia which made him furrow his brows since they were obviously uninvited guests. As the song of the dance ended, the dancers all bowed to each other in respect which the diplomats took the opportunity to approach Lock and Selene. Wulfirc noticed that one of the diplomats was eyeing the princess with a hungry gaze and even caught him licking his lips slightly which made him scowl and grip the handle of his mug.

What are those bastards up to? Wulfric sneered in his head.

Lock noticed the diplomats approach him and immediately felt the uneasy presence they were giving off and instinctively nudged Selene behind him so that he could face them properly.

“Can I help you gentlemen?” He asked in a calm yet stern tone.

"Forgive us my lord but we were hoping the princess would dance with us next?" The gentleman replied with a bow.

It was then that Dimitri saw it, behind their false smiles was a glint in their eyes that he’s seen too many times to count in his reality. A glint of carnal lust and sickening desire, and they were looking straight at Selene.

Lock clenched his fist and took a few breathes to keep calm since he didn’t want to make a scene. Just then he felt something grasp his hand which made him glance over his shoulder and saw Selene with a look of fear in her eye and she was trembling in his hand which told him all he needed to know.

“I’m afraid the Princess doesn’t wish to dance with any of you.” Lock said coldly.

“As you can see, she’s with me for the night.”

"This does not concern you commoner." The second diplomat replied giving him a disgusted look.

"Now move aside. The princess would prefer REAL stallions to a mongrel like you."

Dimitri was just about to punch his lights out when Marshall appeared from behind with two night guards in tow.

"Gentleman, that's quite enough." The lord regent said sternly.

"Oh. Lord Marshall, please forgive our rudeness. Our intentions were pure."

"I'm sure. Now please leave."

The diplomats did as instructed and were prepared to leave when he heard the feint clink of metal under their robes.

"Hmm a bit hot in all that armor eh...Hassansin?"

"....."

CLANG!!!

The sound of swords colliding echoed throughout the room. The diplomat closest to Marshall spun around and tried to slash at him with a curved blade but Marshall was quicker on the draw as he used his scabbard to block the attack. The other diplomats, now revealed as assailants flung their robes off revealing their armored bodies. Two of them made a dash for Selene by trying to jump around Lock who quickly unfurled both pairs of wings and swung them forward, smacking each of the assailants and making them fall. Already enraged that they tried to harm Selene, Lock used his power to morph the feathers of his upper wings into blades and held them against each of their necks.

“Don’t…move.” He hissed.

Meanwhile, Marshall was battling the first assailant but was having no trouble parrying and blocking his crude attacks. The hassansin looked to his comrades and saw that they were already down which made him scowl.

“Surrender, and I’ll be sure to send you and your comrades back to your King slightly unharmed.” Marshall warned.

“My King sent us here to claim what he desires.” The assailant said.

“And he always gets what he wants.”

The assassin then blew a high pitched whistle and the windows suddenly shattered around the room and multiple Saddle Arabian ponies jumped in all armed to the teeth.

“CAPTURE THE YOUNG PRINCESS! SLAY THE REST!” The assailant bellowed.

"Dimitri. Keep my daughter safe, these bastards are mine."

Selene was now more scared than ever as she watched her father march up to them as if he were taking a stroll yet for the others, a sense of relief was felt but for the enemy it was a sense of dread.

"It's Sir Marshall..."

"The Knight of The Moon..."

“Only warning.” The Lord Regent said in an icy tone as he slowly unsheathed a black blade that looked like a piece of the night sky forged into a weapon; His sword Nightfall.

“Leave here now and live, or stay and face your destiny.”

"Fool! You have no chance against all of us, marriage and fatherhood have made you weak! Your destiny...is DEATH!!"

The second the hassansin finished those words, the last thing he saw was a black blade flying towards him just before he felt his arms being cut off and soon the rest followed. Despite the ten years of peace, Marshalls skills never faded and his senses were as sharp as ever.

“AAAAAAAAHHHHHH” the hassassin cried out as blood spurted from his bloody stumps. With another quick swipe, Marshall slashed the assailants throat which resulted in the sounds of bloody gurgling.

“Next?” He said flinging off the blood.

“SWARM HIM!” The lead hassassin ordered.

Like black wind, Marshall moved with fierce grace as he fought the group of assailants. Two ponies tried to slash him in his front only for him to lean back just in time to dodge their attack before he twisted his body and kicked one of them in the kneecap, shattering it and the assailant cried out in pain.

"Too slow."

Marshall jumped to the side and stabbed the other assailant through the head which killed him instantly. The downed hassassin with a shattered kneecap tried to stand but the lord regent whipped around and sliced his head clean off.

It seemed things had calmed down when he heard a cry of anger behind him and saw one of the wounded assassins flying at him with his dagger just a foot away from his chest.

Crap! He's too close for me to block!! He thought trying to move his blade into blocking position.

Out of no where a blade impaled itself in the skull of the assailant. The blade was crimson red and looked like a feather, which made Marshall turn to see one of Lock’s wings unfurled which meant he shot a feather blade just in time.

Marshall took one last glance before returning to battle and saw Selene clinging to him as she stared at her father in fear for his safety. Marshall simply smiled at her as he returned his gaze to the remaining ponies.

"Men. Search the grounds, they must have another group waiting for them."

"Sir!"

The crowd applauded at how quickly the assailants were dispatched while Marshall cleaned off the blood from his blade and face.

"Daddy!" Selene cried out clinging to her father with tears in her eyes.

"There there sweetheart, i'm alright. It's okay now." He said in a gentle voice as he hugged her.

Lock smiled as the two hugged each other with Celestia and Luna joining in. Just as things were quieting down,Lock saw in the corner of his eye that one of the assailants was still alive and was aiming a crossbow bolt at Marshall.

"Oh I wouldn't do that if I were you." Cautioned Wulfric who held a dagger up to his throat.

"Marshall, what should we do with this one?"

"To the dungeons. if he resists break his arms."

“Whew! Well that was surely an interesting entertainment.” Lock said as he wiped his brow. He then glanced at the body of one of the assailants and snorted as he kicked it.

“Bastards…trying to ruin tonight of all nights? You’d think they’d know better.” He scoffed as he fished into his coat pocket and pulled out a packet of some kind. He opened the packet and pulled out a cigarette and placed in between his lips and snapped his fingers as a small flame lit the cigarette and began to smoke.

“So.” He said as he exhaled and a puff of smoke escaped his lips.

“Guess the asshat who calls himself King of Saddle Arabia is making his move, and against the royal family no less.”

"Indeed. Guess he did not like being turned down." Celestia replied while holding onto Selene.

"But why take Selene and not Imperius? He wants them to marry."

"Well they left no evidence of who their client was or where they were heading." Said Marshall after checking their pockets.

After the excitement died down, the party resumed as if nothing happened save for Selene being sent to bed early after her traumatic experience and while the celebration kept going, the royal family was nowhere to be seen.

The gardens

Luna was walking through the garden with Imperius as it was something they usually do from time to time. She was holding his hand which made him smile up at her and also the night sky.

“The night is as beautiful as ever, mother.” Imperius said.

“Thank you Imperius.” Luna said as she leaned down and nuzzled the colt.

“So, I see you’ve been well acquainted with Gumdrop.” She teased.

“Especially since you were dancing with her.”

The prince hid himself under her wing like a foal on his first day of school, too embarassed to confront his mother.

“Oh come now Imperius.” Luna said as she stopped to kneel in front of the young colt now hiding under his own wings.

“There’s no need to be embarrassed. I’m proud you were able to finally come out of your shell and interact with a young mare like Gumdrop.” She said as she pulled aside his wing to see his face.

“You like her, don’t you?”

"Um...a little." He admitted

Huzzah! Luna squealed in her head.

“Then you should continue to explore these feelings. Spend time with her, speak with her, get to know the mare who’s caught your interest. Who knows? There might be something there between you two.”

“Thank you mother.” Imperius said as he hugged Luna.

“Of course.” She replied with a gentle smile.

The pair hugged each other for a moment longer before Imperius rubbed his eyes catching his mothers attention.

"Time for bed little mister, you've had a long night."

The prince made his way back to the bedroom after receiving a kiss on the forehead and as he left, Luna could not help but sigh as her little colt was growing up.

A little while later

The royals gathered in the council room after sending the children to bed and contacted Cadence and Shining Armor via hollow crystal, Celestia then explained in great detail about everything that had transpired at the party leaving the couple mortified and speechless.

"As if the undead weren't enough." Shining Armor sighed while rubbing his left temple.

"Now we have to deal with both Blueblood AND Saddle Arabia, not to mention those Kirin mercenaries."

"One thing bothers me." Said Wulfric.

"The undead army has been roaming around the northlands this whole time, why haven't they attacked?"

"Perhaps they're waiting to see who falls first." Answered Shining Armor.

"Or perhaps their magic isn't strong enough to blanket the land in snow again." Added Twilight.

“Well one thing’s for sure.” Lock said.

“The royal children have officially become alpha targets. Both Blueblood and the king have now come after them and it’s only a matter of time before they try again. Marshall, did the prisoners say how they even got into the party?”

“The prisoner said that Duke Venture and Orchid Charm had used their titles to to help them gain entry after being paid off.” Marshall replied which made Celestia and Luna worry not only for their children but also for the members of the royal court.

"Then perhaps we should call off tomorrows event." Cadence suggested but Wulfric was quick to protest.

"It will be my sons first hunt, I promised I'd take him."

"Wulfric.” Shining said in a concerned tone to his old friend. “

We’re now fighting against two, possibly three, enemies in this war. They’re using dirty tactics to gain the upper hand and one of them is as crazy as Dainn. I’ve met some pretty crazy people during my military days and this is no different. I understand this hunt was something Beorn has been looking forward to, but you need to think about the safety of your children.”

"But if we cancel the event, the citizens will be concerned and not to mention spread worry throughout the city." The northern king stated when Marshall came up with an idea.

"Then we take an armed escort. Five royal guards from Canterlot and five shield maids from the clans."

“That works, we should also each travel with one of the children for added protection.” Lock adds.

“My sister and I can stay with Imperius.” Celestia said.

“I’ll stay with Apple Jewel, we always like to hang out with each other.” Shining Armor said.

“I’ll even bring along my new protégé I’ve been training, Flash Sentry.”

Flash? Lock thought to himself.

“I shall be with Beorn and one of my best men shall accompany me.” Wulfirc said.

“Guess that leaves Selene.” Lock said.

“I’ll look after her then.”

"Then we are agreed." Cadence smiled when all began to hear the distinct sound of a foal crying.

"Oh dear, Flurry's awake. Gotta go."

"Very well, council adjourned." Celestia replied as she deactivated the crystal.

As they turned in for the night, Luna peeked in on her daughter to see if she was doing alright and was relieved to see her sleeping soundly despite her traumatic experience.

"Luna?" Whispered the voice of her husband who wrapped his arms around her in a loving embrace.

"She's fine love." He whispered pecking her cheek.

"I know but I can't help but worry." She replied before nuzzling him while gently closing the door and joining her husband in bed.

Meanwhile

In a dark alley way, two figures wearing hooded cloaks met with one handing a small sheet of paper to the other. The first mysterious figure could easily be described as Equestrian thanks to his muzzle sticking put from the hood and as he read the note a sinister grin appeared on his face.

"Are you certain of this?" He asked his partner who returned the same grin saying.

"I'm certain. At long last, we'll finally be free of those northern savages."

The stranger was given a small pouch full of bits before disappearing into the night while his partner strolled down the alley and unsheathed a dagger with his grin turning into a murderous smile.

"Heh heh...Long live The King...."

End.

Long Live The King Part 1

The night was long and foreboding for the royals after the assailants who were sent to foalnap Selene and Imperius from Saddle Arabia. Celestia and Luna were standing on their balcony, side by side as they lowered the moon and raised the sun. Once the task was done, they both sighed and looked to each other but couldn’t bring themselves to smile after last nights events. Marshall had just left the bathroom after a quick shower and was beginning to get dressed for the hunt. Celestia and Luna returned in the room and began to dress for the event as well. No one said a word, so much were on their minds, and this war could turn for the better or worse on a dime.

“Today is the day.” Marshall said as he buttoned up his coat.

“Shall we go fetch the children? I believe Wulfric and his family said to meet him in the training grounds."

"Yes of course." Celestia replied as she disrobed, much to her husbands delight.

"Best view in the castle~." He said eyeing her rump when Luna threw a towel in his face.

"Go downstairs you cad!"

Marshall chuckled to himself and threw the towel back and left the room before closing the door behind him. He glanced to his side and saw a couple of guards and walked over as they saluted to him with respect.

"At ease." Marshall said.

"Please accompany me to fetch my children."

"Yes sir, Sir Marshall." One guard replied.

Marshall nodded with a smile as he and the guards made their way to Selene's room, giving curt nods to anyone he passed by. A few minutes later, he and his men arrived at the room and was about to open the door when he heard Selene scurrying around.

"Maybe he'll like this? No, too frilly. Maybe this? No, too casual! Oh...why did he have to be so unfairly charming and handsome!"

The lord regent sighed and shook his head knowing his daughter was going through her first crush and as he opened the door, an avalanche of clothes came spilling out.

"What in equestria?!?" He shouted in astonishment.

"Selene what is all this?"

"Father?!" Selene yelped.

Thankfully she was already wearing clothing, which surprisingly consisted of a simple sky blue blouse and a knee high white skirt. she also had her mane done up in a braid and Marshall noticed she had applied a little makeup on her face.

"I-I can explain!" She pleaded.

"Sweetie I know you wanna impress dimitri but we're going to be late." He lectured as she made a pouty face and used her magic to reorganize her room.

"Much better." He said patting her head before they went to Imperius' room.

"Come on son, time to get up!" He shouted after a few knocks on the door but got no response.

Marshall looked to Selene who simply shrugged as he reached out and opened the door. When they peered in, they were met with a most surprising sight that almost made Selene squeal with delight. Imperius was in his bed still sleeping but wasn't alone, next to him was none other than Gummy who had her arms wrapped around him and both were innocently snuggling with each other as they slept. They looked so peaceful, and Marshall couldn't help but smile ever so proudly at his son.

"My my, never knew they were THAT close." He said rubbing his chin.

"Selene? Trumpet."

"Yes sir!" The princess grinned using her magic to form a trumpet.

Marshal smirked as he brought the trumpet to his lips and inhaled deeply while Selene covered her ears. The lord regent blew into the instrument and played and obnoxiously loud wake up call.

The foals were instantly startled from their sleep and tumbled out of bed with a loud thud until finally waking up.

"Owww..." Imperius groaned as he opened his eyes to find Gumdrop in top of him.

"G-GUMMY?!? WHEN DID YOU GET HERE?!?"

"Oh! Good morning Imperius!" Gummy chirped as she raised her head, only to have her face mere inches away from Imperius'.

"I couldn't really sleep so I wanted to come here and ask if you wanted to sleep together! But you were already asleep so I helped myself to join you. Only as soon as I hopped in bed you immediately started to snuggle against me so I snuggled back!"

"I DID WHAT?!" Imperius yelped with his face getting redder.

"He's always been a bit of a cuddlier." Marshall mocked, making both foals look to him and Selene and an even deeper shade of red flushed Imperius' face.

"Just ask his mother."

"DAD?!?"

"Alright, simmer down tiger. Gummy please get off him and get ready, we have a big day planned."

"Yes sir!"

The mare stood up in salute revealing she was in a grey tank top and pajama pants decorated with cupcake prints before skipping away merrily.

“So, little brother.” Selene teased.

“Already sharing a bed with a mare?”

"NOTHING HAPPENED I SWEAR!!" Her brother replied with steam practically coming off his head.

"Alright little man, get ready. We need to meet up with Wulfric soon."

Still tomato faced, Imperius grumbled and got dressed for the day as his father and sister waited for him. Once he was done, the three, plus the guards, made their way to the training grounds where Wulfirc and his family surrounded something odd in the middle. It looked like a pair of large crimson red wings wrapped around each other like a cocoon. Marshall arched a brow and approached Wulfirc gaining his attention.

“Good morning everyone.” Marshall greeted.

“Marshall! Thank Odin you’re here, maybe you can help us out.” Wulfirc said, gesturing to the winged cocoon.

“What exactly is this?” Selene wondered.

“You don’t recognize them? It’s Uncle Lock’s wings.” Beorn said.

“Really?” Imperius asked and they nodded.

“Why’s he wrapped up like that?”

“When we asked around, the guards said he worked out for a few hours before the sun rose. Then he just sat in the middle of the grounds and began to meditate. We found him like this and it’s already been an hour.” Wulfirc explained.

“He won’t snap the hay out of this meditation thing!” Rainbow complained.

Marshall scratched his chin for a moment and grabbed a spear from one of the nearby guards saying.

"Let's try the direct approach!"

"No wait!!" Wulfric shouted in protest as he hurled the spear.

In an instant, Dimitri let out a yelp and sprang off the ground as the spear plunged itself into the soil.

"I love wake up duty."

Suddenly, Marshall was tackled to the ground by a blur and slid across the dirt. He opened his eyes to see Dimitri seething down at him with a death glare and the feathers of his right wing had morphed into blades as he looked as if he was about to skewer the lord regent.

“Marshall?” Lock said as he began to calm down but deadpanned harshly at the stallion.

“Hell damnit, man! Don’t you ever disturb me like that again! You never disrupt a man’s meditation, I could’ve seriously ripped out your heart just now!” Lock lectured as he stood back up, only to be met with multiple swords and spears pointed at him.

“Oh Hell…” Lock groaned as he raised his hands up.

"Easy boys, he's just jumpy." Marshall shouted making the guards stand down.

"Remind me NEVER to do that again."

"Oh trust me, I will." Wulfric chuckled as he helped him up.

Lock sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose as he turned to face the others. Only when he did, Applejack, Rainbow were covering the eyes of the fillies.

"What?" Lock asked.

He looked down and was reminded that he had just got done with his workout while barefoot and the only piece of clothing he was wearing were athletic shorts. Which meant his very muscular torso and arms were on display for all to see.

"Oh whoops." Lock chuckled sheepishly as he covered his body with his wings.

"I'll just go hit the showers, be right back." He said as he quickly walked to the locker room.

As the carriages began to line up at the main gates, Beorn noticed the armed escort lining up beside them while the servants loaded the camping gear and hunting equipment.

"So dad, what're we hunting?" The prince asked earning a grin from his father.

"Bog boars my boy. The moss on their hides make great medicine for expecting mothers plus the meat is good for our wolves."

“It’s been a while since I’ve been hunting.” Lock said as he stretched his arms above his head.

“Maybe I’ll BBQ some boar on a spit roast.”

The statement earned him a few shocked expressions from the others when a bright flash appeared next to the royals and children revealing Shining Armor, a group of his best stallions, and a young pegasus recruit who looked just as serious as the rest of them.

“Shining! Glad you could make it!” Wulfric said giving a firm handshake.

“Wouldn't miss it, this is my protégé Flash Sentry.” Shining introduced.

“Sir! It’s an honor to meet you, sir!” Flash saluted.

“He’s quite the loyal one, glad to meet you boy.” Wulfric said as he shook the recruits hand.

Lock gazed at Flash curiously since he was the spitting image of one of his apprentices back in his reality. A twinge or guilt poked his heart when he was reminded of all that he left behind and wondered how they were doing.

“Dimitri?”

Lock blinked and looked down to see Selene tugging his jacket’s sleeve with a worried expression.

“Is everything alright?” She asked.

“Oh of course.” Lock said. “Just…a tad homesick is all. You look very beautiful, by the way, did you get all done up for me?”

Selene would blush and turn away, making him smirk while everyone boarded the carriages.

"Ladies~?" Wulfric purred as he smacked Rainbow and Applejack on their flanks before opening the door for them.

"You and that pervy mind of yours..." Lock chuckled sarcastically.

"We don't mind, and you're more than welcome to do the same Lock~." Rainbow teased as she winked at him.

"Eeyup~." Applejack agreed while licking her lips before the two of them stepped in.

"How you managed to land a pair like them will always be a mystery to me." Lock said to Wulfric, to which he just smirked confidently before he joined his wives. Celestia and Luna soon later arrived along with Gummy. Imperius looked away bashfully but entered the second carriage with her along with the lord regent offering a hand to each of his wives like the gentleman he is before joining them. Lock turned to Selene and smiled as he offered a hand to help her inside. Selene blushed and accepted his offer and took his hand as she stepped in with her family. Before she pulled her hand away, Lock leaned in and placed a light kiss on her hand before winking and turned to walk back to Wulfric's carriage. Selene held her hand close to her chest while blushing up a storm as she sat down next to Luna and sighed with little hearts in her eyes to which her family either smiled or chuckled to themselves over the love-struck mare.

"So Imperius." Celestia said, smirking at her son and Gummy.

"Your father tells me he found you and this young filly here in quite an interesting position when he went to wake you."

"N-nothing happened mother! I swear!" The prince replied blushing nervously.

"It's true, your majesty." Gummy said.

"Imperius and I just cuddled with each other. He's quite the cuddle bug too!"

"GUMMY!?"

"Oh isn't he?" Celestia squealed while covering her cheeks.

"When he was a baby, he'd always snuggle up against me or Luna when he took his naps. He was so precious!"

"Mother stop!!" The prince protested as they giggled.

"Why are you so flustered, little brother?" Selene asked, coming out of her daze.

"We always used to cuddle a lot as well when we were foals."

"Not you too sis!" He whined while using his wings to cover up.

In the other carriage, Wulfric smiled at the sight of his daughter resting on Applejacks lap as if she were a filly again while Rainbow leaned onto his right shoulder and placed his left hand on her belly.

"They were kicking this morning." She said with a warm smile.

"Mm they're gonna be a handful." Her husband replied smiling back.

Lock smiled at the happy family and looked out the window to see the trees passing by. He then reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out his strange device and tapped it a few times. Beorn, who was sitting next to him, glanced over to see an image of a human man, woman, two younger humans and one human who looked like Dimitri but younger.

"That your family?" He asked curiously.

"Hmm? Oh yeah." Lock said as he showed the others the image. "My dad, mom, and two little siblings. But if you look closely, you'll notice something different about me and them."

Upon closer inspection, the smiling humans surrounding young Lock all had light brown hair and blue or green eyes while Lock had his usual black hair and grey eyes. They all looked to Lock after realizing but he just smiled back at them.

"Yup, I was adopted by this family after being taken away by my old one." He said somberly.

"They seem really nice." Said Applejack while stroking her daughters head.

"They saved me." Lock said as he looked at his adopted father.

"My...biological father fought in the army in his youth. Before he enlisted, he was a fairly kind man and treated my biological mother and I just as fairly. But when he came home, he wasn't the same as he was before."

"What happened?" Wulfric asked.

"Sometimes you see things on the battlefield that would break a man." Lock said as he placed a hand over his chest where the tags under his shirt hung.

"My father came home broken and he took it out on my mother and I. He drank profusely, cheated on my mother, and she never had the courage to stand up to him. I was too young to do anything and he always told me that...I was an embarrassment to him and I was well on my way to be just like him. One day I came home from school and heard my mother screaming. I walked in to see my father with a bottle in one hand and a belt in the other. When he came after me, my mother shielded me from his drunken rampage but the neighbors had contacted the authorities before he could do any more damage." Lock reached into his shirt and pulled out the tags hooked to a small chain for all to see.

"These were his, including mine from the military." Lock explained.

"I always wear them to remind myself never to end up like that man and to always be strong."

"What happened to your mother?" Beorn asked.

"She and I spent about a month in the hospital and she always kept apologizing to me for all that had happened. I didn't think things would get any worse, until more authorities came in and told her that she was to be arrested and hauled off to prison as well." Lock sighed as his tone began to change.

"Turns out she was an addict, which is why she was always so sick all the time because she was on drugs. My whole view of her shattered in an instant and before I knew it, I was an orphan. I spent a year alone, just a 5 year old kid with no one to comfort me. That is until I met him." Lock said as he smiled at the photo.

"His name was Charles Lockdrom, and he told me he wanted to bring me to his home as a wedding anniversary gift for his wife. Before I knew it, I was in a new home, surrounded by new faces, and I felt like I mattered again. I owe everything to these people, my only regret was not saying goodbye before I came to my Equestria, let alone enlisting in the military."

"Well at least you had a mother." Said Wulfric.

"Mine died giving birth to me but not once did my father blame me for her death. He raised me, trained me and loved me with all his heart but....I still wish I knew her."

"I'm sure your father is telling her all about her grandkids and future grandkids." Lock said.

For the rest of the trip, both families rode towards Whitetale Woods without an interruption. About an hour later, the carriages arrived at their destination and were met with the calming atmosphere of the autumn leaves decorating the trees. while the soldiers took their posts around the area and the children went to talk amongst themselves, the royals, Shining and Flash Sentry, and Lock gathered off to the side.

"So we stick to the plan, yes?" Celestia said.

"Yup, you and Luna with Imperius and Gummy, me with Selene, Shining and Flash with Apple Bloom, and Wulfric and Marshall with Beorn." Lock said.

"Keep your heads on a swivel."

"But let's not forget to have fun." Said Wulfric with a smirk.

"And don't worry, I brought protection."

With a loud whistle, several dire wolves lead by Arya appeared from the brush and began to gather around the northern king in a perfect formation like well trained soldiers.

"Bog boars can be tough to bring down."

As the group prepared for the hunt, Wulfric was called to a secluded spot just a short way from the camp and was greeted by quite the sight.

"Whoa."

Both Applejack and Rainbow had completely disrobed and were laying on a bed made of leaves, yet despite their growing bellies they looked more beautiful than ever.

“Come join us~.” Applejack said with a wag of her finger.

Wulfirc wasted no time setting his sword aside and laying down with his lovers. Both Applejack and Rainbow pressed their naked pregnant bodies against Wulfric as he held them close.

“To think I’ll be a father again, it seems too good to be true.” He said with a warm smile.

“I agree.” Rainbow replied while holding his hand

“I wonder what the twins will look like?”

“Well Ah know for a fact that this little buck will be as handsome as his father.” Applejack said, earning a kiss from her husband.

“You think of any names yet?”

"Hmmm...." the king closed his eyes and thought of a name for one of the babies.

"Aurora....That was my mothers name."

“That’s an awesome name for our fawn.” Rainbow said happily.

“Hun?” Applejack said.

“Yes dear?”

“Ah think Ah know what Ah wanna name our little buck.”

“And what’s that?” Wulfric wondered.

“Yer father’s name.” She replied.

"Heh. Very well." He replied kissing her belly.

"Your name shall be Hjalmar and for my other boy...Tyr."

"You mean after your god?" Asked Rainbow.

“Indeed, they’re both going to be strong men like his older brother. And my little fawn will be as beautiful as her sister, her mother, and my mother combined.” Wulfric proclaimed with pride.

“You talk big, sweetheart.” Applejack giggled. “Makes me wanna meet our babies even more.”

“You and me both.” Rainbow added.

Wulfric smiled as he and his wives basked in the afternoon sunlight, picturing the many memories they would share with the new additions to the family.

The mares began positioning themselves for their husband and enticed him by wiggling their well toned flanks at him with bedroom eyes.

"Mmm who to pick?" The king said while scratching his chin.

Wulfric smirked with an idea in mind as he reached out with both hands and plunged his fingers deep within their marehoods. Applejack and Rainbow both squealed in surprise as their husband curled his middle and ring fingers and started to dig around, making their moans load and sultry. He then twisted his wrists so that his thumbs would brush against their clits, which caused juices to gush out on his hands.

“Ahn~!” Rainbow cooed.

“H-Hun?! Wh-where’d ya learn ta do, sweet Celestia, do that~?!” Applejack moaned as Wulfric spread his fingers and pressed his thumbs into their clits.

“Heh, a little trick our good friend Dimitri passed along. Turns out you can do much more with fingers than meets the eye~.” Wulfric said as he continued to finger blast his wives.

He paused for a moment to take Applejack and kiss her shoulder while caressing her belly and moving his right hand to her breast.

"By the way, where is Dimitri?" He asked when his friend appeared in wolf form.

“Could’ve sworn the boar tracks led through here…” Lock muttered as he sniffed the ground. When he lifted his head to see the three lovers, he froze instantly as Applejack and Rainbow gave him bedroom eyes.

“Uh…am I interrupting?” He asked.

"Just in time stud~." Said Rainbow bending over for him.

"You know...Wulfric calls us She-Wolves for a reason~."

Lock blinked and looked to Wulfirc who was still pleasuring Applejack and he just smirked at him.

“Well go on, she waits for you.” Wulfric said as he pinched Applejacks nipples.

Lock shrugged and walked over to Rainbow and stood right behind her. Her already leaking pussy winked at him, making him lick his chops hungrily.

“Dig in~.” Rainbow cooed.

Lock leaned his snout and and stuck his long tongue and gave her pussy a lasting lick. Rainbow shuttered as she felt his snout burry into her nethers as he lapped up her leaking arousal, making her sigh and moan as she played with her milk filled breasts.

“You taste as delicious as last time, my little mare.” Lock growled as he dove back into her pussy.

The pegasus murred in pleasure while gripping the soil beneath her and shuddered at the touch of his cold snout when finally she felt his weight upon her along with his warm fur.

"Mmm never done it with a real wolf before~."

“First time for everything, right?” Lock said as he leaned his head down while being careful not to put too much pressure on her shoulders and ran his fangs along her wings. Rainbow gasped and squeaked as she felt the sharp teeth run along her wing joints until he stopped and felt him bite down on something. Without warning, he pulled on a crooked feather out making her wince but a wash of soothing bliss made her body go limp.

“Not sure if I did that right, but I heard pegasi enjoy getting preened by their mates. Did I do well?” Lock wondered.

"Mm not bad. Almost as good as Wulfrics hands~" she purred rubbing her rear against his now growing erection.

“You’re welcome for teaching him that, by the way.” Lock chuckled.

“Now then. What does the little mare want?” He growled lustfully in her ear before nipping it with his fangs.

"Mmm I want that knot~." She growled back before he finally thrusted into her.

"UNGH!!"

"Mm easy hon, you got precious cargo now." Said Applejack as she was leaned against a rock.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be gentle.” Lock reassured Applejack as he gently began thrusting.

“Mmm, still so tight, so warm around me.” Lock growled as he humped Rainbow.

Not wishing to be outdone, Wulfric pushed into his beloved farm mare and began pounding her in a steady rhythm.

"Mmm that's it sugarcube~." She panted biting her lips.

“That’s it, my sweet apple, moan for your king and beloved husband~.” Wulfric purred as he leaned his head down and began to suckle on her right nipple.

"Mmmm~"

The farm mare held onto his antlers as he continued while Rainbow was pushed into the dirt by her wolf lover.

"Oohhh buck~" she shuddered feeling him move faster.

“That’s it~.” Lock whispered.

“You feel so good, makes me wanna keep rutting you forever.” He said as he raised a paw and brushed it along her wing again. He prodded her joints with his claws, searching for his mark. He soon brushed against a bump which made her shudder, making him grin devilishly seeing that he found her wings G-spot.

Let’s see how she likes this. He thought as he poked the bump with the tip of his claw.

"HAA~!!" Rainbow cried out as her wings pomfed and her back arched, pushing against him and felt something swelling inside her.

"Oh Celestia! It's getting bigger~!"

“Yes! That’s it, my little pegasus!” Lock said as his thrusts became more erratic.

“Show me how bad you want it! I’m close!”

Rainbow panted rapidly as he jackhammered into her while Applejack was having her mane pulled by Wulfric.

"To think you hated this position before~." The king said while spanking her on her cutie mark.

“That’s because, ah!, it’s you buckin’ me!” Applejack moaned.

“Those rapists, oh yes~, don’t compare! Not in the slightest!“

“I agree~.” Rainbow said as she was pounded and Lock and Wulfric neared their end.

“You both are special, buck yes~! to us in more ways, mmm! than one!”

“So finish it, sugarcube! Cum inside me! Mark me once again as yours!” Applejack squealed.

“You too, Lock! Fill me up full with that wolf spunk~! I wanna feel the mark you gave me burn with desire!” Rainbow begged.

“Shall we Wulfric?” Lock said as his cock throbbed within Rainbow’s pussy.

Wulfric would answer by giving one last thrust that made Applejack scream at the top of her lungs before Rainbow let out a yelp of her own as Dimitri's knot finally locked itself firmly inside her.

“AAAAAAHHHHH~!” Both mares screamed as both males released their potent loads within their pussy’s.

“Oh fuck yes!” Lock barked with bliss.

“Take it, my love, take it all!” Wulfirc said.

“WE LOVE YOU BOTH!” The mares squealed with glee.

Dimitri dismounted Rainbow with his knot still lodged inside her while Wulfric laid his beloved farm mare on the bed of leaves and held her hand as they kissed.

"Beautiful." Was the only word he needed to say and kissed her belly once more.

Lock and Rainbow laid on the ground, basking in the afterglow of their love making. As Lock’s knot began to calm down so he could pull out, a thought occurred to him after what was said in the climax of this whole scene.

“Hey Rainbow?” He asked.

“Hmm~.” Rainbow sighed as she snuggled into Lock’s fur.

“Did you and AJ mean what you said? That…you love Wulfric and me?” Lock wondered.

"Of course ya big doofus." She giggled stroking his pelt.

"Thanks to you, I get to be a mom again."

“I…don’t know what to say.” Lock said, genuinely shocked.

“And you’re ok with this?” He asked Wulfirc who just smiled warmly at him.

"Of course. You're practically family."

"Speaking of family, we better get back to ours soon." Applejack said while snuggling up.

“Then allow me to say this properly.” Lock said as he gently pulled out of Rainbow.

Using his flames to clean himself off, he stood before Rainbow and Applejack as they but their clothes back on. Lock then took a deep breath as he transformed back into a human and wrapped his arms and wings around both mares, hugging them close.

“Thank you both for loving me, I love you as well.” Lock said soothingly.

A little while later, Wulfric and his wives eventually returned to the group to officially begin the hunt. Lock gave a silent message through a nod to the royals to which they all nodded back as they parted ways. Shining Armor and Flash, along with a few guards and wolves trailing behind, were walking with Apple Jewel who was happily skipping through the leaves.

“So how’s life in the Crystal Empire, Uncle Shining?” She asked.

"Well it's been busier than ever now that your aunt and I had Flurry Heart. Sorry they couldn't come." Shining replied while Wulfric was scanning the area for tracks.

“And what about you Mr. Flash? You’re training with Uncle Shining right?” Apple Jewel wondered.

"Well yeah." Flash replied.

"I was recruited during the great war but never really saw any action."

Their conversation was cut short when Wulfric gave the signal to stop.

"Beorn. Come here son." He called out while pointing to a mud pit.

"What can you tell me about this?"

"Hmm...it's a mud wallow! And it's fresh." The prince replied enthusiastically earning a mane ruffling from his father.

"Good lad. There must be some boars nearby, everyone fan out and stay quiet. Blow your hunting horns if you have trouble."

The others nodded and proceeded quietly to seek out their prey. Meanwhile Celestia and Luna were walking with Imperius and Gummy who was happily chatting with Imperius despite his faint blush.

“To think, he couldn’t even speak with filly’s before.” Luna said.

“I know, I’m so proud of him.” Celestia said.

Suddenly, there were sounds of high pitched laughter from the bushes and out jumped a large wolf with Selene riding on his back. She had the widest smile while the wolf ran past Imperius and Gummy and skidded to a halt right in front of Celestia and Luna.

“Told you you’d enjoy it.” The wolf said confidently as Selene jumped off and wrapped her arms around his neck and nuzzled into his fur.

“What’s all this then?” Celestia asked.

“We were just taking a stroll through the trees and I offered to let Selene ride on my back. I wanted to get her to laugh so I started running and as you can see.” Lock replied gesturing to the smiling filly still nuzzling his fur.

“I succeeded in that factor.”

“Yes! Good on you son!” Wulfric cried out from the distance.

“I did it!” Beorn shouted

“Seems like they’re successful in the hunt.” Lock said.

“You wanna go find your dad Selene?”

"Sure. Mother, can I?" She asked turning to Luna.

"Of course dear. We'll be at camp when you're finished.

The two then raced off into the forest until they spotted a large boar drinking from a small stream and stalking the beast was Marshall armed with a loaded crossbow.

“Watch your father hunt.” Lock whispered as they knelt behind the bushes.

Marshall took a deep breath as he released the safety latch from the crossbow making a clicking sound. The boar looked up from the river and turned its head at the sound of the noise but saw nothing and went back to drinking. Marshall held his breath and squeezed the trigger sending the bolt flying and pierced the boar’s temple through its head. The boar immediately collapsed and twitched a few times before going limp and dying. Marshall smirked triumphantly as he rose from his hiding place and walked over to his bounty.

“Nice shot.”

Marshall turned to see Lock still in his wolf form with Selene riding on his back as he approached the Lord Regent.

“Quick and painless, he’s quite the big fella.” He commented while the lord regent inspected his kill.

"Hmm juvenille I think. See the tusks?" Marshall asked pointing to the creatures mouth while his daughter hid behind him.

"Um you sure it's dead daddy?"

"Oh don't worry sweetie. It's safe."

“Yeah, plus your big bad wolf is here to protect you.” Lock teased, earning a cute pouty face and his ear being tugged.

Both Lock and Marshall laughed at the display as Marshall hoisted his bounty over his shoulder. Suddenly, a faint scent caught Lock’s nose making him snap his head to attention. He sniffed the air a few more times before narrowing his eyes and letting out a low growl.

"What is it?" Asked Marshall cautiously looking around while holding his daughter close.

“Trouble.” Lock said before looking back at Marshall. “Get her back to camp.”

“But Lock-”

“GO NOW!” He barked before bolting off in a full sprint.

Lock rushed past the trees as the scent became stronger and stronger making him growl more and more. There was no doubt about it, enemy’s were near and they were closing in fast. Lock frantically looked around before spying a few wolves from Arya’s pack, making him quickly approach them.

“I need to speak with Lady Arya immediately!” Lock said in wolf speech.

“Wulfric and his family are in great danger!”

End.

Long Live The King Part 2

Wulfric and Beorn were hauling in their kill and were heading back towards the camp. The king in the north smiled proudly at his son and looked at where he had shot the beast, the arrow had pierced the soft spot just behind the shoulder of the boar and pierced its heart making it an instant kill.

"Well done my boy. I'll make sure to fashion its tusks into a necklace for you."

“Thank you father, it’s too bad Apple Jewel got squeamish and had to go back with Shining and Flash. I wanted to show off my kill to her.” Beorn said.

“I’m sure you would. Let’s get this beast back to camp so we can show it to your mother.” Wulfric said.

All of the sudden, a loud howl filled the air, making Wulfric and Beorn stop in their tracks.

“Is that Arya?” Beorn wondered.

“She sounds…upset.”

"Something's wrong..." said Wulfric in a grim tone before noticing a glint peer out of the bushes.

"DOWWN!!"

THWACK!!

Out of nowhere, an arrow shot through the air nearly hitting the prince as his father tackled him to the ground.

"King Wulfric!!" Shouted the one who shot the arrow.

"Prince Blueblood sends his regards!!"

Out from the trees came dozens of bandits armed to the teeth as they began to close in on the two hunters.

"Run Beorn." Wulfric said as he drew Kingslayer.

"But what about you?" Beorn asked looking worried

"I'll be fine, just run! RUN!!"

Beorn did as his father instructed and ran back towards the camp to get help while Wulfric blew on his horn to signal the others.

“It’s the King’s horn!” A Viking cried out.

“To the king! He’s in danger!” Another said before all who heard the horn ran towards it as another call was sounded.

Lock and Arya were also making their way to Wulfirc’s horn, along with the rest of the pack as they were running in full sprint.

“How?” Lock growled.

“How did they know we'd be here?!?”

Within moments, they could hear the clashing of steal and the sounds of men being cut down before finally spotting Wulfric.

As the fighting raged on, Beorn ran as fast as his feet could carry him all while evading the arrows coming from the bandits that got past his father.

"There he is!!" Shouted one of the bandits as he prepared to fire.

Before another arrow could be fired, Arya pounced on the bowman and clenched her jaws on his neck and tore his throat out. The rest of her pack followed suit and ambushed the bandits like ghostly shades moving through the trees.

“Beorn!”

Beorn looked forward and saw Lock run towards him in his wolf form.

“Where is he?! Where’s your father?!” Lock asked.

"Back that way!" Beorn panted pointing in the direction he came from.

"I will take the young master back to camp, go help my king!" said Arya as she allowed Beorn to climb onto her.

Lock nodded as she sprinted back to camp and ran the other way as he quickly transformed back into a winged human and summoned Surtr and Ymir. Lock pulled his hood over his head as he unfurled his wings and flew at top speed through the trees and drew both his swords. His rage was building as embers flickered off one half of his body and ice shards covered the other half.

“WULFRIC! WHERE ARE YOU?!” He called out as he flew as fast as he could to the sound of clanging metal.

When he arrived at the battle, he found himself surrounded by bandits fighting royal guards as shouting and battle cries filled the forest and in the center of it all was Wulfric surrounded by a dozen corpses as he hacked down one foe after the next.

"COVER THE KING!! COVER THE KING!!" A royal guard shouted as the enemy began to fire arrows towards Wulfric.

Lock was quick to act as he somersaulted in the air and flicked his wings just as the bandits fired. His feather blades soared towards the bolts and knocked them out of the air before they could land on their target as Lock planted his boots on the ground and stood back to back with Wulfric.

“Can’t ever get a moments peace around here, can we?!” Lock said as the bandits swarmed the two.

"Less yacking, MORE HACKING!!"

The two fought fiercely as the enemy surrounded them and victory seemed to be within their grasp. Then on a nearby hill, Wulfric spotted a hooded figure observing the battle and figured that was their leader.

"Now we end this!"

Without thinking, the king charged forward carving a bloody path to the robed figure with his soldiers cheering him on but as he came within reach of his sword another group popped out of the bushes and three arrows were shot into his chest.

"AUGH!!"

All went silent as Wulfric looked down to see where the arrows had struck while more bandits moved in to finish the job but instead of accepting his fate, the king roared in defiance and fought more fiercely than ever while his soldiers desperately tried to aid him.

"RRRAAAGH!!" He screamed with primal fury before being struck by another arrow.

Despite the pain now coursing through him, Wulfric fought on with all the strength he had left until he fell to his knees with one bandit holding a spear to him.

"WULFRIC!!" Called out Shining Armor who had arrived at the battle too late.

SHINK!!!

"NNOOOOOOOOOO!!!!"

Time slowed down as Wulfric fell to the ground with the spear still plunged into his chest, his killers smiling down at his lifeless body.

As this scene began to unfold Dimitri was trembling. His breathing was heavy, his power was flaring and his rage was boiling. Suddenly, flames, ice, and electricity erupted from Lock’s body as Lock summoned his webbed wings and roared a primal cry of fury and hate as he began butchering all in his path in a blind rage. No bandit could do a thing as Lock literally tore apart the enemy by flaying them alive, freezing them and smashing them to bloody chunks, or slicing them open to the bone.

"I'LL TEAR YOU ALL TO PIECES!!" Lock bellowed as he continued his rampage.

Realizing what they were up against, the robed figure seized Wulfrics sword and ran into the forest leaving his comrades to die.

"He's taken the kings sword!!" One of the men shouted while pointing to the thief.

“GET BACK HERE YOU SON OF A FUCKING WHORE!!!” Lock roared a he gave chase after the hooded figure, ignoring the bothersome bandits that tried to thwart his advance.

"Wulfric!!" Shining called out to his friend as he held him up.

"Come on open your eyes!"

Hearing his old friends voice, Wulfric was able to regain consciousness but felt very weak.

"Sh-Shining?" He wheezed unable to see his friend.

Lock snapped his head back to Wulfric, then back to the fleeing thief. He cursed to himself and sheathed his swords after killing the last of the bandits with feather blades and ran back to Shining's and Wulfirc's side while deactivating his power.

"Move!" Lock demanded as he knelt down beside Wulfric and activated his Hellfire and coated his hands with flames. He then pressed his hands on Wulfric's chest and the flames spread all over his torso but Wulfric was fading fast.

"Remove the arrows." Lock told Shining.

"But-"

"DO YOU WANT HIM TO DIE?! THE FLAMES WILL MAKE IT SO HE WON'T FEEL THEM BEING PULLED OUT SO DO IT NOW! WE'RE LOSING HIM!" He screamed in fury while keeping his focus.

Shining did as instructed and removed the arrows one by one with his magic while Dimitri did his best top the blood flowing from the spear wound.

"Come on, keep your eyes open!" Shining pleaded as Wulfrics eyes began to close again.

"Shining...swear to me, you'll look after my family..."

"H-hey don't talk like that, you're gonna be fine."

“Wulfric look at me!” Lock snapped as Wulfric barely did so.

“You’re gonna be a father again, remember?! Those children are gonna see your face! You’re gonna watch them grow and be as proud of them as you are with Beorn and Apple Jewel!”

The flames covering Lock’s hands grew brighter but Wulfric continued to fade away.

“YOU WANNA GROW OLD WITH YOUR WIVES, DON’T YOU?! DON’T LET SOMETHING LIKE THIS BE YOUR END!” Lock shouted.

"I'm sorry my friend..." he whezzed coughing up some blood.

"Please tell my boy i'm sorry...I really wanted to make that necklace for him..."

“WULFRIC! DON’T YOU DARE! I-”

SLUMP

Both Lock and Shining grew silent as Wulfric’s arm fell to the ground. Shining banged his fist in the ground repeatedly as he buried his face in his arm and Lock’s flames slowly faded away from Wulfric’s torso.

Lord Wulfric, King in the North, has died on the battlefield. Lock was silent as he slowly lifted his hands off of Wulfric and carried him as carefully as he could.

“I’m…so sorry.” Lock muttered as he trudged his way back to camp with Shining following.

As they walked back, not bothering to look ahead of him, Lock passed by the royal guards and Vikings who were devastated at the sight of their fallen lord. With heavy hearts, the soldiers saluted their king in true warrior fashion as his body was placed in the center of camp for all to see.

The first to come onto the scene was Beorn who had been eagerly awaiting his fathers return but the moment he saw him, his heart was shattered.

"Father?" He called out holding his fathers cold hands.

"No....NO!!"

The prince clinged to his fathers corpse desperately wanting him to wake up when Applejack and Rainbow came running through the crowd.

"FATHER PLEASE!! OPEN YOUR EYES!!" He cried out holding onto him. The sight alone was enough to break the hearts of both his mothers as they gently pulled him away.

“I…I tried to save him.” Lock said as he turned away from Rainbow and Applejack.

“His wounds…were mortal.”

All gathered around the King’s body as some wept and some bowed in respect. Both his children cried their eyes out as Applejack and Rainbow held each other close while shedding their own tears. Celestia and Luna both had sad frowns and small tears in their eyes as Marshall looked away with his fist clenched, unable to look at his fallen friend. As for Lock, he just stared at Wulfric with a soulless expression. The memory of the thief who stole his sword made his blood boil as it was now in the hands of their enemies.

After cleansing his body from the dirt and blood, the royal family returned to Canterlot with all due haste and very soon many would learn the fate of the northern king.

No one said a word, all were in mourning, his family were still weeping, and Lock had disappeared to who knows where. The carriages made their way through the streets so that all would pay their respects and some even cried for the fallen king. Once they arrived at the castle, the soldiers lifted the casket wulfric lay in and was placed atop the pedestal as the citizens gathered. Celestia stepped up to the podium and cleared her throat to steady her nerves so that she may address the citizens and inform them of this days tragedy.

"Moments ago....King Wulfric was murdered." She began as the crowd gasped in shock.

"Killed by assassins sent by Prince Blueblood..."

“No…it can’t be.”

“That bastard! How could he do this?!”

“What will we do now? We have no king!”

“Yes you do!”

All turned around to see quite the unsettling sight. A hooded figure, wrapped in bloody robes slowly walked through the crowd the hooded stranger made his way to the pedestal where Wulfric laid. He gazed inside the casket and looked up to the royals, one eye glowing red and the other glowing a deep magenta.

“…He was like a brother to me.” The hooded stranger said as he revealed himself to be Dimitri.

All the royals gasped as it was revealed his face was stained with blood and sweat showing he had been fighting but where no one knew.

“And now his son shall step up.” He said, his voice sounding distorted from exhaustion.

"Wait!" An elderly voice shouted as the crowd made way for two robed individuals. All recognized them shouted Thorodd and Froni; the wisest elders in all the four clans and the kings council. One of them was holding up a scroll after he paid his respects to the late king.

“What’s that?“Lock asked, making the elder flinch at his gaze.

"I hold in my hand the last will of our king!" The elder said aloud while handing the scroll to Celestia to confirm its authenticity.

The parcment was sealed with a ribbon baring the Warborn crest proving it was genuine and as the princess of the sun unrolled the scroll, all stayed quiet to hear what was written.

In the untimely event of my death, I Wulfric of the Warborn Clan, king in the north and lord of the four clans hereby pass the crown to both my children.

They have been a blessing in my life and the greatest treasure I could have ever had and I know in my heart that together they will lead this kingdom to greatness.

My eldest; Apple Jewel is as honest, wise and hard working as her mother and she will be great in guiding our peoples future.

My youngest; Beorn is as loyal, brave and strong as my Rainbow Dash and will be steadfast in his duty to defend his kingdom.

Should any oppose this rule, the elders have the right to invoke trial by combat and may choose a champion to fight on the crowns behalf.

The scroll was handed back to the elders as Celestia returned her gaze to the crowd.

"Are they any who wish to challenge the kings will?" She asked but all stayed silent.

Seeing that this was a traditional affair, Lock took the opportunity to slightly quell his already seething anger but only temporarily. None said a word, many wanted to, but they felt as though they would be dishonoring Wulfirc’s last request.

“I shall step forward!” I deep gruff voice called out.

All turned to see a large Caribou warrior, with many scars donned along his face, arms, and legs, dressed in heavy Viking armor, and armed with a large battle axe stepped forward. He was easily a head and a half taller than all who he passed by and he bowed respectfully to the elders and Wulfirc’s family, even Lock.

“And who might you be, sir?” Lock asked in a somewhat calm tone.

"I am Gregor. I served with King Wulfric during the great war and believe I will be a more suitable successor." The warrior boasted thumping his plate armor.

“Tell us, Sir Gregor, why do you object to the royal children taking the throne together?” Elder Thorod asked.

“And are proposing that you be the one to take the throne?” Elder Forni added.

"I am! But know that I will step down once the children are of age now tell me...who will fight on their behalf?" He shouted to the crowd but none would accept his challenge. Save for one.

"I will." Called Shining Armor much to the crowds astonishment.

"Wulfric was my friend and I will see his last wish fulfilled."

Gregor nodded as both warriors prepared for battle. Lock walked over to one of the elders, despite his wary gaze on the man, and leaned in to whisper.

“Pardon me, elder, but do the rules state that only one match be permitted? For example, if one loses, can another step forward to fight in his place?” He questioned.

"So long as the challenge is accepted." The elder whispered back while keeping an eye on the combatants.

Shining was dressed in full plate armor and given his trusty crystal halberd while Gregor unsheathed his massive axe ready to do battle.

“This shall be a battle to the death, if necessary.” Elder Forni announced. “Are the combatants ready?” Both warriors nodded. “The battle shall bow commence, BEGIN!”

Shining was quick to act as he dashed forward with his halberd raised to deliver a downward stroke as he prepared to strike the large Viking.

Gregor stood his ground as he prepared to deliver a crushing blow with his axe but was caught off guard when the prince dashed to the side at the last second and smashed his chest with the blunt half of his weapon.

"AAGH!!" He shouted in pain and looked down to see that his armor had been dented.

"Had enough?" Shining asked coldly while taking his stance again.

“NEVER!” Gregor snapped as he swung his axe again.

Shining dodged but Gregor seized the opportunity to grab his leg before he lept out of reach and swung Shinning over his head, slamming his body into the ground knocking the wind out of the stallion, making him drop his halberd. Gregor then released his leg and raised his boot over Shining and prepared to crush him, but the prince barely managed to roll out of the way before Gregor brought his boot down with an earth shattering stomp. Shining grabbed his halberd and stood back to his hooves, but grunted in pain since that slam cracked a few ribs and his vision was slightly blurry.

The crowd watched in anticipation as they prepared to clash once more but things began to look grim for the crystal prince.

"....let it be finished." Gregor said in a hushed voice as he brought his axe down once more when to his surprise, it was parried away and he was struck once more by Shinings halberd but this time on the jaw.

CRUNCH!!

All cringed at the sound of Gregors bones snapping while Shining stood there stiff as a statue. Many of the soldiers had seen this before but were still amazed at his technique. This stance came to be known as the iron wall in the great war for none were capable of piercing its defense.

Blow after blow, Shining parried Gregors attacks and slowly began to wear down his opponent to the point where he could barely stand, let alone lift his axe.

As Gregor knelt there exhausted, Images of his service with Wulfric played back in his mind, how proud he was to stand by his king. He loved his country, his people, and even respected Wulfric’s decision to welcome the human into his family. With a mighty roar, Gregor stood up straight and pounded his chest and glared daggers at Shining.

“I DO THIS FOR THE NORTH! AND FOR MY FALLEN KING!” Gregor shouted as he charged at Shining. Shining held his stance, he knew Gregor was acting on impulse Gregor lifted his axe and brought it down for another swing but Shining dodged and went to deliver another blow to the jaw…big mistake.

Gregor, being the seasoned warrior that he is, twisted his head so that Shining’s weapon met his large antler.

CLANG!

The halberd struck Gregor’s antler, but was sent flying in the air, completely catching everyone off guard. Before Shining could react, Gregor’s fist impacted across his muzzle, causing a loud crunch and sent him tumbling in the dirt.

The crowd gasped as it looked like this was the end of the duel. Both warriors were pushed to the brink with barely any strength left until finally one stood tall. It was Shining.

THUMP!

Gregor fell to the ground, exhausted and unable to move as he looked up at the prince who had retrieved his weapon and prepared to deliver the final blow.

"You fought valiantly Sir Gregor but the duel is mine. Please yield." Shining pleaded while raising his weapon.

Gregor looked up at Shining and then to the royal family. He wanted to keep fighting, but his body said otherwise. He knew Shining was skilled but underestimated how resilient he was. With a heavy sigh, he nodded in defeat.

“Sir Shining is the winner!” The elder announced, earning a roar of applause.

All members of the royal family were proud of Shining’s victory as he limped away with the help of his men, no doubt on his way to get treated for his injuries. Celestia and Luna were proud of their former Captain and Applejack and Rainbow were happy he kept Wulfirc’s promise. All had smiling faces, except for one.

Dimitri's eyes looked at the empty scabbard that once held king slayer. He gritted his teeth and clenched his fist in anger before storming off towards the lake near the castle where he began to wash off the blood from his face and weapons.

"Dimitri." A voice called out when he turned to see Marshall holding out his flask to him.

"I thought you quit drinking?"

"Relax. It's Apple Cider."

Lock took a whiff from the flask and immediately took one large gulp before handing it back.

"So where were you?" The lord regent asked while sitting on a nearby rock.

"I tracked down the bandits who attacked us...same ones who took Wulfrics sword." Lock sighed washing the last of the blood from his face.

"I tore down their hideout but found nothing! NOTHING!!" He shouted angrily while pounding the grass.

“Dimitri-”

“HE WAS NEVER MEANT TO DIE!” Lock shouted again.

“HE HAS A FAMILY AND UNBORN CHILDREN HE’LL NEVER BE ABLE TO MEET!” He snapped his head to Marshall who just stared at him blankly.

“They all died…by my hand. Every. Last. One of them.”

"...good." Marshall replied bluntly while taking a swig for himself.

"We were planning to hunt down those bastards tomorrow. You find the sword?"

Lock shook his head bitterly as he continued to clean Surtr.

“I must’ve tortured dozens of them but they all said the same damn thing, that whoever took the sword had already gone and they didn’t know who it was. One even had the balls to threaten me, saying that the other bandit factions will hunt me down to avenge the lot of them. If I were to guess, the sword’s probably with that son of a cunt Blueblood.”

"Alright. You've done what you can, go rest and that's an order from the lord regent." Marshall commanded in military fashion before heading back to the castle.

A bit later

In the council room, Marshall stood at the table with his best captains and was fuming as he demanded answers.

"Today's hunt was supposed to only be known by the royal family so someone better tell me-HOW THE ENEMY KNEW WHERE WE WERE?!?" He roared slamming the table.

“W-we checked everywhere!” One captain said. “None of the guards said a word to anypony!”

“If that were the case then WULFRIC WOULD STILL BE ALIVE!” Marshall snapped.

“They were waiting for us, all of them. WE WALKED RIGHT INTO THEIR TRAP AND WERE COMPLETELY IN THE BLIND! SO SOMEPONY BETTER GIVE ME ANSWERS OR SO HELP ME, I’LL SEE THE LOT OF YOU COURT-MARTIALED!”

The soldiers began to sweat not only because of the amount of pressure they were now feeling but also because of their lords unbridled rage.

"There is a spy amongst us and I want him or her found! Check every staff member in the castle if you have to!!"

“E-even the recruits?” A captain offered.

“EVEN YOUR OWN DAMN MOTHER! NOW GET THE BUCK OUT THERE AND FIND ME THAT BUCKING TRAITOR!”Marshall roared with another heavy slam of his fist on the table. The captains immediately scrambled out of the room as Luna walked in holding a cup of tea for her beloved knowing he would need it.

“Thank you, my dear.” Marshall said in a more calm tone before sitting down. He took a sip of his tea before placing it down on the table and rubbed his temples.

“What a mess…” He sighed as Luna sat beside him.

“This whole world feels like its being turned upside down with all this war. One was enough, yet this happens.”

"You're doing all you can my love." She said massaging his shoulders.

“He was too good for this world.” Marshall sighed.

“If maybe the world weren’t so thick headed, he’d be laughing his head off boasting how wrong we were. I can only imagine what his family is going through. Especially his children.”

It was then that they heard a knock on the door followed by the sound of giggling as their daughter peeked into the room.

“Oh! Mother! Father!” She said before peering out of the door for a moment.

“Wait right there, I wish to tell them myself.” She then closed the door and happily skipped to her parents.

“I have the most wonderful news!” She beamed.

"You seem happy. What is it?" Her father asked.

“Ok so, you know how you two always tell me to follow my heart whenever I feel lost?” Selene asks and they both nod.

“Well…I followed my heart and I found my special somepony!”

"Oh how wonderful!" Luna squealed in delight, clapping her hands together.

"Who's the lucky stallion?"

“Hehe, you can come in now!” Selene called out to the door. There was a brief pause until the door slowly opened and to Marshall’s and Luna’s surprise, Dimitri stepped through with a sheepish grin as he rubbed the back of his head.

“Yo…” He said with a mock wave.

Both Marshall and Luna went slack jawed as Selene happily skipped over to Dimitri and wrapped herself around his right arm and nuzzled it.

“As you can see, mother and father, I finally worked up the courage to confess to Dimitri!” Selene said proudly.

"Oh my." Her mother said in bewilderment.

"But honey you do know he's with your aunts right?" Asked Marshall feeling a bit shocked.

“That’s kinda what I said.” Dimitri said.

“And? Who is anypony of denying my feelings? Dimitri has been nothing kind to me ever since he arrived here. He’s sweet, brave, and treats me like any other mare. Plus.” Selene said as she reached into her dress and pulled out a necklace. Hooked onto it was the crimson red feather that Lock gave her when they first met.

“He helped me be more honest with myself, Imperius included since he spends his time with Gummy. He’s the perfect stallion for me, and no other shall be a better coltfriend.”

“She actually called me that…” Lock muttered under his breath.

"Ehh I see...well i'm happy for you." Marshall said with a smile but as he shook hands with Dimitri he gave one very clear warning.

"Break her heart and i'll cut out yours..."

“Trust me, I don’t plan to.” Lock reassured him with a grin. No sooner did they release their handshake, Selene jumped on Lock forcing him to catch her bridal style and wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him deeply on the lips.

“Oh my…” Luna sighed.

“I love you so much, Dimitri!” Selene squealed as she nuzzled into the crook of his neck.

“Yeah, I love you too.” Lock said.

“My lords and ladies?” A servant called out.

“The funeral arrangements have been set. Princess Celestia has summoned everypony to the royal cemetery.”

The mood immediately changed as everyone frowned.

“Wel…” Lock said as he set Selene down.

“Guess it’s time we see him off.”

"Yes." Marshall sighed before finishing his tea.

They exited the room and walked solemnly through the halls. Lock snapped his fingers and in a puff of flames he was dressed in a black tuxedo with a black tie as was the appropriate attire for the funeral. Luna’s horn glowed and she was dressed in a black dress with a white crescent moon embroidered on her bust, Marshall was dressed in his soldiers uniform, and Selene was also dressed in a black blouse. The group made their way to the cemetery where many Vikings and ponies all gathered dressed in black or traditional Viking funeral attire. The group made their way to the front of the audience where the rest of the royals, Twilight and her friends, and even Cadence and Flurry Heart awaited them.

Canterlot City Center

A large pyre was built in the center of the main square and atop rested the body of Wulfric. All of Canterlot had come to pay their respects in honor of the fallen king with many weeping for the loss

As the torch bearers moved into position, Shining Armor stepped forward to begin the ceremony.

"Today we have all come to honor one man. A king, a father, a friend...and a hero." He before standing by his fallen friend.

"Wulfric, son of Hjalmar, Lord of the clans and King in The North. His courage inspired many of us to rise up against Dainn Stonehoof during the great war! He restored honor to his nation and people and his legacy will live on in all of us!"

Many stepped forward to say their own words of praise and fond memories of Wulfric. Applejack stepped forward along with Rainbow to reminisce the day they met Wulfric and how they fell in love with him. Celestia and Luna talked about how they took back Canterlot together and when they were honored to have crowned him King in the North. Soon Dimitri stepped forward to say a few words. He glanced back at the burning pyre and smiled as he began his speech.

“Back in my world, I too was a soldier like Wulfric Warborn.” Lock said, earning everyone’s attention.

“My comrades and I would always have each other’s backs, even if the world around us was nothing but conflict. We fought to protect our home from the enemy and trained ourselves for the betterment of others. There were times in our lives of battle when we thought we wouldn’t make it out alive and the enemy would end us without a second thought.” Lock said and looked back at Wulfric and smiled.

“But Wulfric reminds me of an old friend, a comrade in arms I used to know during my days as a soldier.” Lock said.

“As soldiers of war, our lives were discipline, duty, battle, and death. Life during those times of conflict and war was grim, and we greeted it grimly. But my friend was unlike the rest of us, his name was Joshua and he wore a smile even in the worst of times. He was…happy.” Lock said sadly as his scars started to throb.

“Joshua inspired us to hope, that though we were soldiers of war…yet there was still humanity in us, goodness.” Lock said as a lone tear escaped his eye.

“When the day came for him to lay down his life in battle, his sacrifice saved countless others and turned the tide in our favor. My fellow soldiers and I personally carried him to his home and we made sure he was buried with all the honors and praise he deserved for all he had done for us and his country. His memory was a comfort in dark times…” Lock said. All the ponies and Vikings were too in awe of his story to say anything. Lock smiled and took a breath to compose himself so he could finish his thoughts.

“Wulfric Warborn gave his life to protect his family and those he loved because it was not only his duty, but his right. He was a dear friend to most, a loving father and husband, but he was probably one of the most honorable Caribou I’ll have ever met. So do not feel sad that he is gone, be proud and happy that he was alive and continued to protect you all to the end. Like my friend Joshua, let his memory be a ray of light in these dark times.” Lock said as he looked back to Wulfric one last time.

“Rest well, King Wulfric Warborn, your actions shall inspire many to rise above just as you had.” Lock finished.

Shining then took one of the torches as they formed a circle around the king.

"You have earned your warriors death old friend. Rest now and watch over us."

The pyre was soon lit and as the citizens watched, Beorn stepped forward with anger and tears in his eyes.

"My father....is dead." He shouted before looking to the crowd with resolve and determination.

"Who among you...will help me avenge him?"

In that moment, all the northlanders raised their fists in defiance and cheered with tears still falling from their faces for what they saw was the kings strength and spirit now residing in his own son.

End.

Beorn The Behemoth Part 1

A month has passed since the tragic death of Wulfric Warborn. The death of the King of the North racked everyone who supported him with grief and sadness, especially his own people. The Funeral was almost as heartbreaking for Equestria as his actual death as the Kings body was laid to rest with all the highest honors of viking custom. Wulfric’s family, the royals, and Lock all said their words of farewell which were filled with nothing but tears. Everyone did the best they could to move on but those from the North still struggled to accept that their king was gone. Now, according to Wulfirc’s last written words, Beorn and Apple Jewel would become his successors as rulers of the North and even though some were supportive of the idea, there were still others who had doubts they could pull it off.

It was early in the morning and both Applejack and Rainbow Dash were sleeping on their backs since their protruding bellies had their infant foals still growing inside. They both woke up to the rooster crowing and looked at each other and frowned since there was someone missing. They both sighed as they lifted themselves up and sat at the edge of the bed next to each other and leaned their shoulders against one another.

“He’s really gone, isn’t he?” Rainbow Dash asked solemnly.

"I know sugarcube..." replied Applejack while rubbing her belly.

"I can hardly believe it myself..."

“And Dimitri…” Rainbow said, starting to tear up.

“He’ll leave soon, back to his reality.” She looks to Applejack about ready to cry again.

“What are we gonna do?”

All Applejack could do was hug her lover and pray things would be alright but could not help worrying about the future herself.

While many admired her late husband for uniting the kingdoms, there were still others who sought to gain power from his absence and knew they would come after not only her and Rainbow but their children as well.

With nothing else left to do, both mares slowly got ready for the day. Once their morning rituals were done and they got dressed, they both exited the room and were met with a couple armored stags.

“My Lady Applejack and My Lady Rainbow Dash.” One of the stags greeted with a bow.

“Hello boys, were is my son?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Young master Beorn and young mistress Apple Jewel are at the training grounds with Lord Marshall and young master Imperius, along with Sir Lock as well.” The other stag responds.

“Sir Lock as requested that we escort you two to them so that you do not run into any more unneeded attention.”

"Good idea." Applejack sighed in relief as she did not want unwanted stress affecting their pregnancy.

It wasn't even a day when both queens were given sympathies and promises of protection by numerous bachelors. Some were genuine while others were empty words hidden behind false emotions and fake smiles.

"Has anyone tried contacting our children?" Asked Applejack as they continued down the hall.

"Mostly the cadets milady. They're trustworthy enough and as for princess Apple Jewel, many suitors come to offer their sympathies but nothing too bold as of yet." Replied the guard next to her when they spotted some nobles talking amongst themselves.

“Such a shame, King Wulfirc was a noble soul.” One noble said.

“Indeed, I wonder what will become of his wives?” Another replied.

“More importantly their children. My daughter seems like a suitable suitor for the buck but it’s like he has his head set on training with that demon.” The third noble said.

“Speaking of that demon, why do the ladies of the North insist on keeping that thingaround?”

“I’ve tried to ask if my son could court princess Apple Jewel but the demon just shooed him away, the very nerve!”

“I heard he’s nothing but a monster, you heard how he single handily butchered dozens of those bandits without remorse?”

“If anything it should be imprisoned or at the very least put down like the monster it is.”

"Now gentleman, be reasonable." A voice called out as all turned to see Fancy Pants walking towards the group.

"Their is no need to take such drastic actions. Need I remind you that with The King In The North dead, Bluebloods forces have gotten bolder. Reports are coming in from all over with news of attacks on caravans and farms all over the countryside."

“Then what do you propose we do, Lord Fancy Pants?” A noble asks.

“We have tried to ask Princess Celestia and Princess Luna to reconsider Saddle Arabia’s offer for an alliance but they refuse every time.”

“Indeed and Prince Beorn and Princess Apple Jewel are far too young to lead the northerners. Sir Gregor should have been the one to lead them. He seems like a far more capable leader and would have lead his subjects proudly if Shining Armor hadn't challenged him.” Another scoffs.

"Need I remind you gentleman, that was the kings final request and if you have any objections then feel free to challenge one of the northerners for the throne. I'm sure the kings bodyguard is itching for a fight." Fancy replied while fixing his monocle.

"Furthermore, you know why we can't allow slavery back into our society. Did you forget what kept Equestria divided for so long?" He asked his fellow nobleman but all was silent.

"There was a time when we Equestrians made slaves of one another instead of helping one another and It was that division that brought the windigo's to our land in the beginning."

“But Lord Fancy Pants-”

A noble prepared to speak but Fancy Pants simply raised his hand, cutting them off.

"Now that same evil threatens us once again. It is only a miracle that they are still in the northlands."

The nobles wanted to protest more but soon hung their heads and nodded in defeat. They then all slowly walked away leaving Fancy Pants and Rainbow Dash and Applejack took the opportunity to walk up to the honorable noble.

“Hey Fancy, thanks for sticking up for us like that.” Rainbow said.

“Yeah, we really appreciate it.” Applejack said.

"My pleasure ladies and believe me when I say that I also share your grief." Fancy replied with a short bow.

"Your husband was a great man and an even greater father. I know he would've loved to see his future little ones."

“As do we.” Rainbow said, looking down at her twins in her belly.

“My ladies, we must be off.” One of the guards said.

“Huh? Oh yeah, sure. It was nice seeing you again, Fancy. Maybe we can catch more some time later?” Rainbow offers.

"But of course."

With one last bow, the group parted ways as the queens headed for the courtyard to find Beorn pounding away with his bare fists at a wooden post covered in rope.

“Woah there tiger, gonna hurt yourself if you keep hitting that thing like that.” Rainbow said as she approached her son.

“Mom, I’m fine.” Beorn said as he punched the post once more.

“I need to be ready for the next time I go into battle.”

“Where’s Lock?” Applejack asks.

“He’s over there with Uncle Marshal and Imperius.” Beorn replied, pointing to the other side of the training grounds.

When both mares turned around, they saw Lock was siting crisscrossed on the ground, his back up straight, his eyes closed, his arms spread out with his hands clenched into fists, balancing on his arms were two massive boulders as Lock kept his tribal marked arms straight out, not budging an inch. His body was producing massive amounts of sweat as his muscles strained under the weight and thanks to days of not visiting the barber his hair had grown out quite long so he styled it in a ponytail tied with a string with his bangs spread out to the sides of his head. Lock seemed to be in complete focus as Marshall kept track of how long he was in this stance.

“Father, how much longer does he have left?” Imperius wondered.

"He's been at it for three hours." Marshall replied before lock finally snapped out of his trance and smashed the boulders to rubble with one quick strike.

“Three hours, huh?” Lock said as he cracked his knuckles.

“Seems about right.”

One of the squires handed him a towel and water flask before he joined Marshall in observing the recruits and discussing certain issues within the court.

"More lords wanted to talk with Beorn today." The lord regent said in a calm voice so they wouldn't draw attention.

“Hmph, probably to get Beorn to court their daughters for power and influence.” Lock scoffed before drinking a swig of water and dumping the rest over his head and body.

“Not like that’ll ever happen anytime soon.”

"They've been getting desperate since Chrysalis offered her daughters hand in marriage to him."

“Speaking of Chrysalis, I wanted to talk to you about something. A month ago, when she explained why she wanted Crysta and Beorn to wed, I could tell she wasn’t telling us the full story.”

"You think she's hiding something?" Marshall asked before pulling out his flask and taking a swig.

“Maybe, I’ll talk to her before Beorn meets with the elders. Apparently they want to discuss something with him and I wanna be there when they do.” Lock before he noticed Rainbow and Applejack walk up to them with smiles as he met them halfway and hugged them both close, forgetting he was soaked.

“How’s my two favorite mares this morning?” Lock asks lovingly.

"I'd be a lot better if my back weren't so sore." Applejack sighed before hearing a familiar voice.

"Join the club darling."

The three turned to see Rarity walking over with her belly looking twice as big yet somehow she looked more radiant than ever.

"Hey Rarity. Spike not with you?" Rainbow asked after noticing her husband wasn't around.

"Twilight needed his help so I'm just taking a stroll with my little one." She smiled rubbing her stomach gently.

“Ah, Miss Rairty, we finally meet face to face.” Lock said as stepped forward.

“Sorry we couldn’t meet sooner, things have been really hectic lately. I am Dimitri Lockdrom, so good to meet you.” He greeted with a curt nod.

“You look like the spitting image of your alternate self in my reality, and my congratulations for your little one soon on the way. Do you know if it’s a colt or a filly? If you don’t mind me asking.”

"Oh one can never be too sure my good sir but I have been making pajamas for either one." She winked before hearing what sounded like a loud thump and looked back to see Beorn pounding away at the post again with more force.

BOOM...

BOOM...

BOOM!!!

Though he did not show it, all could see the prince was still grieving over the death of his father and their family sword being stolen.

"Poor darling..." said Rarity looking sad.

It was after the seventh strike, the top half of the post snapped off with a loud crack and flew just a few feet away startling some of the trainees.

“Kid has been doing this since that day.” Lock sighed.

“I’m the one who instructed him to do that but I guess he’s taking it to the next level already.”

It wasn't until after they looked at the broken half of the post that they saw a bloodstain on the rope and noticed Beorns hands were now red with blood. Rainbow let out a short gasp and ran over to see the skin of his knuckles were badly torn.

"Sweetie your hands! I told you to take it easy-!!"

Her lecture was cut short when she noticed his tears and that he was clenching his fists tightly and as she raised his head, all she could do was hold him like any mother and comfort him as best she could.

"It's not fair..." he hissed with anger as blood dripped from his fists.

"It's not fair!!" He said again in a pained voice.

“I know Beorn…” Rainbow soothed her son for what seemed like several minutes.

Lock stepped towards the whimpering buck and kneeled down in front of him. He then took both his hands and softly ignited his Hellfire and began to heal them.

“Your father was the second most honorable and benevolent man I’ve ever met in my lifetime. He loved you and your mother so very much and still does even in death. What happened was a tragedy but you must remember what he died for. You can become stronger but destroying yourself isn’t worth it.” Lock said after Beorn was healed and hugged his godson close.

“I’m not Wulfric, but I made a promise to him to look after you. You’re not alone in this world, remember that.”

Beorn nodded in acknowledgement of his godfathers words as he hugged him back with his sister joining.

"I'm here for you as well little brother."

"Sis..."

“We all are, sweetheart.” Rainbow said she too joined the hug. They stayed like that for a good long while before letting him go back to training.

“Rainbow, walk with me for a moment, won’t you?” Dimitri asked his pegasus lover who didn't seem to mind as they left the training grounds.

“Beorn! Take a breather before you go back to hitting the next post, I don’t want to see your hands bloody again and neither does your mother!” Lock calls out over his shoulder before he leaves.

"Okay!" The young buck shouted while cleaning up his mess.

"So what did you wanna talk about?" Rainbow asked while she leaned on him as they walked.

“I’ll be honest with you.” Lock said as he wrapped his arm around her and held her close.

“It’s about Chrysalis, back when she pitched her claim as to why Crysta and Beorn should be wed, while her words rang true, I could tell she wasn’t giving us the full story. So earlier this morning I had someone send for her to meet me in private to discuss this matter. I figured since Beorn is your son you’d also wanna know what her true motives are.”

"Mmm I never did trust that bug." Rainbow pouted as they stopped for a rest.

"I have nothing against her kid though. She seems nice."

“I agree, she does appear to have some feelings for Beorn.” Lock said as he turned and looked down at Rainbow.

“And no calling anyone by what they are, ok?” Lock said, cupping her cheek.

“Chrysalis is our ally and maybe her true motives are somewhat just. So when we talk with her let me do the talking and you the listening, ok?” He asks while rubbing his thumb across her cheek.

"Yeah yeah." She pouted again while pressing her chest against his arm.

“You know, you’re pretty adorable when you pout like that.” Lock said as he slowly leaned down and kissed Rainbow softly.

"Mmm if I wasn't pregnant, I'd do it with you right here~." She teased while leaning on him again.

“I’m sure you would.” He teased back.

“Come, she's probably waiting for us now.” They both continued to walk until they reached a room guarded by changelings.

“We’re here to see the Queen, I’m the one who sent for her.” Lock said as they both nodded and stepped to the side as they open the door for Lock and Rainbow. Once they enter they are met with the Changeling Queen herself, sitting at a table with a couple maids beside her, and sipping on a cup of tea. When she looks to Lock and Rainbow, she gives Lock a bit of a sultry grin.

"My my Sir Dimitri. You look dashing. " She compliments before noticing Rainbow Dash clinging to his arm.

"And Rainbow Dash, you look lovelier than ever."

“Thanks, been saving it for a special occasion.” Lock said as he approached the table.

“If I may be so bold, your highness, I would like to speak with you privately about something.”

"Oh? About what?" The queen inquired while taking another sip of tea.

“I must ask you dismiss your staff.” Lock inquires as he and Rainbow sit down at the table across from her.

"Hmm...very well."

Deciding to humor her guests, the queen snapped her fingers and the guards marched out of the room with no hesitation.

"Now that we are alone, what is it you wish to know?"

“I’ll be straight with you.” Lock said as he intertwined his hands together and rested his head on his fingers.

“I know you weren’t telling us the full story back when you stated your reasons as to why Beorn and Crysta should be wed.” This made Chrysalis pause from taking another sip of her tea and glance up at Dimitri.

“As the Devil’s Hand, I too make it an obligation of mine not to lie. But as a former military man, who’s interrogated dozens of terrorists by my CO’s command and supervision, I can tell when someone is either lying or withholding intel. And as a godfather to Beorn and Apple Jewel, I must also make sure that they are kept safe from those who still wish to do harm. Wulfric may be gone, Gods rest his soul, but Beorn is still my and especially Rainbow Dash’s responsibility. So depending on your answer, and forgive me for being blunt, I would highly advise you answer my question to the fullest extent and not attempt to lie in the slightest. What else are you after besides wanting your daughter and my godson to be wed?“

Chrysalis gently placed her teacup back on the table and walked to a nearby window overlooking the gardens.

"Despite what they say about me, not all changelings are my children. Crysta is my one true child....my only surviving child."

“Surviving?” Lock repeats.

“What do you mean?” Rainbow wonders.

Chrysalis turned to face them with tearful eyes despite her best to hide her pain.

"The day we were driven into the swamps...was the day I lost everything..."

Ten years ago

The hive was completely engulfed in flames as the changelings fought desperately to repel the invaders but while the battle raged on outside, Chrysalis was frantically running towards the nursery hive.

"My babies!! MY BABIES!!" She screamed as the hive shook once more with pieces of rubble falling everywhere.

"My queen!!" Called one of the hive guards who had returned from the battle.

"Our defences are breached, you must leave!"

"No! I will not abandon my little ones! Have the nursery hive evacuated at once!!"

"Yes my queen!"

The guards and staff worked quickly to transport the queens offspring out of the castle through a secret entrance while Chrysalis carried a newborn crying in her arms as the rumbling and explosions scared her.

"Hush little one, mother's here." She whispered gently as they arrived at a set of longboats docked on a hidden shore near the hive.

"Quickly your majesty." Urged one of the boatmen as he helped the queen get aboard when suddenly an arrow struck the boat.

"THERE THEY ARE!!" Shouted a stonehoof soldier as more came charging down the hill.

"PROTECT THE QUEEN!!"

The samurai were able to stop the attackers long enough for the boats to escape and as Chrysalis watched she saw several of the raiders aiming a flaming arrows towards the boat carrying her eggs.

"No...." was all she could whisper as the arrows went soaring through the air and setting the boat aflame.

"NOOOOOOOOO!!!"

She could only watch in horror as her young ones were burned alive before the boat sank to the bottom of the river. After finally escsping their pursuers, all was quiet save for the crying infant in the queens arms and after finally collecting herself, Chrysalis partially opened her robe allowing the little one to nurse.

"There there, don't cry now my child." She said with tearful eyes and a smile.

"I promise, mommy will always protect you...my little Crysta."

Lock and Rainbow were speechless, the tragic story of how Chrysalis lost most of her children shocked them to their very core. Rainbow also had tears in her eyes as she hugged her belly close and Lock pinched the bridge of his nose, still trying to process her sad tale.

“What a fool I am…” Lock said.

“Does your daughter know of the fate of her siblings?”

"She does. Every year; on her birthday she prays for them."

Chrysalis sat back down for another sip of tea and looked at her reflection on the surface.

"Despite all that, my daughter became a wonderful girl and made many friends in the hive as well as Equestria...but I'll be damned before I let some sleezey noble take her from me!"

“So that’s why.” Lock said.

“But if all you wanted was to protect your daughter from an unruly engagement, why didn’t you just tell Wulfric?”

"Well Rainbows late husband was not exactly trusting of me."

"And I don't blame him." Rainbow said bluntly with a deadpan expression.

“Rainbow, enough…” Lock snapped, shocking her.

“You still have the nerve to hold resentment to Chrysalis after everything? Why? Was it because of all the times she attempted to conquer Equestria like at Shining Armor’s wedding? The past is the past and you need to accept it. In case you had forgotten there was an even bigger threat that had befallen Equestria when Dainn invaded and she lost most of her own children because of it. Put yourself in her shoes, Gods forbid if you lost Beorn or those twins, how do you think you’d feel? Well I know how she feels, being helpless as those precious to you are taken away, I’ve experienced it many times during my service…” Lock said, placing a hand over his eye.

“And now this world is still in shit’s creek because of that little piece of rat shit Blueblood and those fucking entitled pricks who don’t seem to understand the grave situation Equestria is in, especially since a great man like Wulfric had just lost his life. In fact…” Lock growled as small embers ignited on his body and wings and his eyes began to turn amber.

“I should round up each of those stuck up fuckers and remind them that the world doesn’t revolve around them, that there’s more to life than their fucking prestigious titles and selfish desires for power and influence.”

"Fine words Dimitri." Chrysalis smirked.

"But Rainbow is right to be suspicious of me. I did on more than one occasion try to seduce her husband."

Lock had to do a double take on Chrysalis at what he was told as the flames snuffed out on his body.

“Excuse me?” Lock questioned as she smiled a bit sheepishly.

"Well can you blame a girl? Wulfric was the perfect man. Strong, dependable, full of stamina~" she purred licking her lips.

"Hmm now that I think about it, Beorn is also allowed to take more than one wife. Perhaps I should-!"

"NO!!" Rainbow and Lock shouted in unison much to her amusement.

“Back to the matter at hand.” Lock said, rubbing his temples.

“It seems all the royal children have the same problem with the nobles. None of us wants them to end up with someone who’s only in it for reputation. The children have the right to experience what it’s like to fall in love, just like Wulfirc did with Rainbow and Applejack and…” Lock said trailing off.

“And…I as well.”

"Indeed." Chrysalis agreed as she finished her tea.

"Well this was a fun chat but I promised my daughter we'd have lunch together. Oh and Dimitri?" She called to him with bedroom eyes.

"If you ever feel lonely, my bedchamber is always open~."

“Uh…” Lock mumbled as he glanced to Rainbow who was giving him the stink eye.

“Gonna have to take a rain check in that.”

"Mm pity."

"We're leaving. Now!" Rainbow said sternly as she dragged Dimitri out by the collar and back towards the courtyard. Nagging most of the way.

"Can you believe her?!? First offering herself up as a bride for my son, then trying to seduce you! That lady needs self control!!"

“Oh come on Rainbow.” Lock said as he freed himself from her grip.

“She may be a bit brash-” Rainbow stops in her tracks and spins around and stares at Lock with her face an inch away from his, giving him the stink eye of stink eyes.

“Ok, she’s very rash, but all she really wants is what’s best for Crysta. I mean I certainly wouldn’t want Apple Jewel to end up with some douchbag or Beorn with some fake girl. Besides, you said it yourself that Crysta is a sweet girl, right? I agree.”

"Yeah your right." She sighed finally calming down.

"But if she even THINKS about putting the moves on my sweet Beorn i'll rip her wings off!"

“Hey now.” Lock said as he hugged Rainbow and wrapped his large wings around her.

“Chrysalis is just a big tease who likes to grind peoples gears. Even someone like her has her limits so I doubt she’d pull anything on Beorn.” Rainbow looks up to Lock as he smiles and strokes her cheek again with his hand.

“You’re a great mother who loves her son and these little ones soon on the way. We’ll think of something to keep those nobles away, so for the time being let’s focus on the issues we have to deal with now.”

Rainbow smiles and nuzzles into Lock’s chest.

"Mmm you're sweet you know that?"

Rainbow playfully bumped him with her flank as they resumed their walk when a scout came running through the corridor.

"Urgent message!! Urgent message!!"

“Report.” Lock said to the frantic scout.

"Oh sir lock! It's bad. Our scouts reported a band of mercenaries marching towards the border!" The messenger responded with panic in his voice.

"They're planning to raid a small village and if that happens then hundreds will be slaughtered!"

“Shit, now of all times?” Lock cursed.

Lock wasted no time unfurling his wings and even brought out his webbed wings and spread both pairs out wide. He hugged Rainbow one last time and gave her a kiss before he shot through the halls at breakneck speeds towards his room to retrieve something he kept hidden among his possessions.

"Guess it's time." He said to himself as he began to don a set of black robes armor with a strange mask and finally a double bladed spear strapped in ragged leather.

He arrived at the training grounds in less than a minute and landed while skidding on the ground. Applejack, Marshall, Beorn, Apple Jewel, Imperius, and even the Princesses and Selene were all in the training grounds as Lock approached them.

“Sir Lock?” Celestia said.

“What is that armor?” Luna asks.

“It looks very nice, Lock.” Selene compliments with a faint blush.

“Thanks but now’s not the time for that.” Lock said as he furled both pairs of wings.

“We got trouble on the border, a band of mercenaries are on the move and are closing in on a village.”

"Blueblood." Celestia hissed coldly and called for an emergency war council with Beorn and Apple Jewel in attendance as well as Twilight and her friends.

“Scout, how many did the reports say the enemy has in this attacking group?” Lock questions.

"A thousand strong, if not more."

The council talked amongst themselves as they tried to find a solution but within moments they began to argue while Twilight did her best to defuse the situation.

"Everyone please calm down!"

"We should evacuate the village!"

"There's no time! We should send a thousand of our own men as a counterattack!!"

"And risk leaving our military depleted?!? You're mad!!"

It was at this point, the arguments came to a boil and suddenly another voice shouted above the rest.

"ENOUGH!!!"

WHAM!!

Having grown annoyed by their bickering Beorn slammed his fist to the table leaving a huge crack as he stood from his seat.

"While we sit her fighting amongst ourselves, the enemy marches on our doorstep! I'll take my best warriors and delay them as long as possible."

Spoken like a king. Lock thought time himself as he smiled with pride at his godson along with Rainbow and Applejack for in that moment, Beorn became the spitting image of his father.

End.