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My sleep went uninterrupted for a while before my body finally decided it was time to awaken. And when I did, the faint and cool early autumn light of dawn had brightened greatly into the bright warm glow of the late morning. And between me and the window was the beautiful sleeping form of Celestia herself. Her constantly billowing mane had become still while she slumbered, serving as a physical indicator for her dreaming state. The only sounds that really reached my ears aside from her snoring were the gentle beeps and hums of the medical machines that were still hooked up to me.

I gazed at the ceiling to process what I knew at the time. It was over... The war was finally over. And we would all be going home very soon. With Celestia still at my side, I stayed silent in contemplation. I tried to reflect on the past several weeks. I even documented many of the more eventful days. All that time when I should have been back home in Ponyville...

My eyes narrowed in frustration. I resented everything about the situation. The very act of Equestria being forced into warfare when there is no place for it in this war. All those who got hurt... And my own debilitating injuries. I felt no worse off than when I last awoke before that fateful mission, so I was under the impression that nothing had changed. I would at least make a full recovery. But so many others...

Even with the war won, I sighed heavily. How many did we lose in the end? How many were maimed? What was it all for? We did not even gain anything from this war. No one did. It was all an effort that ultimately changed nothing. I squinted my eyes shut in bitterness. Nothing was gained... Nothing except...

My eyes fell upon the two pillows I had received during my time out there. Stuffed full with the discarded molted feathers of Silverstream and Terramar. And I knew of someone who made a house out of a bunch of spare pillows. Ocellus. And had I never come out there into the Empty Plains, I...never would have found her. Or even...

A silver lining crossed my mind. For as pointless as the entire war had ultimately proven to be, I did not come out of it without newfound boons. I gained nothing physical, but in terms of newfound relationships... If the war never happened, I would have never found Ember. I never would have found the Grove of Silence and the wonderful kirin who reside there. I likely would never have crossed paths with Gilda. And I most certainly would never have met the king and queen of Equestria themselves. Especially Orbash, that wonderful man of a stallion...

Perhaps I thought too soon when I believed the war had been meaningless. I did gain much... Much that would endure for a very long time. It was not the results of the war that made it somewhat worth it in the end. It was the friends I made along the way. The love that was found as well... And for that, I was grateful. I lost some of the bitterness in my heart as I thought about the wonderful people I met in the past weeks. The ones who kept me going when I surely would have turned back and run home otherwise.

I placed my hand over Celestia's wrist and gently tightened my grasp. I just wanted to go home. I wanted to put this entire mess behind me. And in a matter of moments, I noticed Celestia's mane starting to move. It actually startled me a bit when I noticed her long glorious hair starting to waver like there was something crawling inside it. But in seconds, I could no longer see the individual strands of hair as her mane took on the familiar mystifying form of an aurora. And then... Her eyes opened as her wing pulled me up against her. "Good morning, my sunshine... Did you sleep more soundly this time?"

"Yeah... Yeah, I think that did it for me." I replied with my fingers rubbing around her wrist. I was still so very tired, but at least my mind was not clouded. Even if I did feel the disorienting effect of a concussion fall over me for a brief moment. "So then... What's next? Time to start marching home?"

Celestia tenderly touched her nose to my cheek as she whispered with a firmer tone. "No... No, our people have been through enough just getting out here. From this point out, the militia will be airlifted back home. It might take a week or two in order for all of them to be swiftly moved back home, but it will be done. Although the wounded are taking priority for now."

"Nice... A flight home on an airship sounds like the perfect solution." I muttered in some relief. It was taxing enough just to get us out here. At least this would help and probably be good for moral. It would certainly be a treat for anyone who had almost never experienced riding an airship before to have another long quiet trip back. But as my thoughts of airships reached my mind, one specific airship's name flashed through my memory. "Is the Alabaster en route?"

"Probably. You know Novo would never miss a chance to see you now that victory has been declared. They will surely be here in the afternoon." Celestia replied with a bit of a giddy smile upon her lips. She must have anticipated me inquiring about that wonderful bird of paradise. Although she then asked, "Before I can forget... Was there...something you needed us all to hear?"

"Thanks for reminding me. Yeah... Yeah, if you could get them up here, I'd like to talk to them." I replied while knowing exactly who she meant. There was something the royal family needed to be debriefed on.

"Right then. Just a moment..." Celestia said before she lifted her head with her golden yellow aura billowing around her horn. But only for a moment. Less than a minute later, the aura faded while she smiled at me. "They will be here shortly. Although Nightmare Moon will have to watch from her chambers. I think climbing stairs is still a bit much for her right now."

"That makes sense." I muttered before I suddenly heard the sound of hooves coming up the stairs. The door to my room opened to reveal Luna quickly stepping inside. The Princess of the Night beamed at me as I provided a quiet greeting. "Morning, Luna..."

"Oh, praise the stars, you've awakened..." Luna said softly as a means to keep her voice down. She quickly trotted over to me and reached out for a gentle nuzzle against my cheek. "So good to see you well, my friend. Such a harrowing bout of waiting we had to endure once you returned."

"Thank you... I think I'll be all right at this rate." I replied before noticing Luna's right wing was folded in a slightly different manner than the left. As if it was holding something. "What's that there?"

"This? You should recognize it." She replied before her blue magic aura enshrouded her horn. A familiar crystal floated out from under her wing's grasp before rising up and being set atop my dresser. And right next to my helmet. Seeing my helmet there reminded me about the rest of my equipment. And I was quick to see the Lunar Shield leaning against it with the Celestial Sword's hilt plainly visible jutting up behind it. The tub for holding my armor was nowhere to be seen. They likely removed it now that there was no point in me wearing it. The crystal soon began to project a circular panel of distorted space above it. I could not see through it, but there was surely someone on the other side. Luna lifted her horn high and began to speak with a spell being cast through it. "Can you see anything, sister?"

A familiar voice filled my head. A voice being projected via magical telepathy. "Yes, the view is clear. And at just the right angle. Hello there, my dear... Are you well?"

"Yeah... I'd say the worst is over now. I think we'll all be OK now..." I replied while weakly waving my hand at Nightmare Moon's observation portal. I could not see her, but she could see me. Now all that we had to wait for was...

I barely had time to think as the sound of more hooves began to climb the stairs. And seconds later, the glorious forms of the king and queen of Equestria themselves entered my room with the door being locked behind them. Orbash entered first and immediately approached me with a subdued and deeply concerned smile on his face. The beautiful king lowered his horn to my brow and spoke...very softly. Like a true father comforting a gravely ill child of his own. "Good to see you, my boy... The medics said all was well, but...how are you feeling?"

"Not so great, but I've felt worse..." I muttered while flinching a bit at just how forward and tender he was being towards me. The king of Equestria, a stallion above all other stallions, yet he was showing me a tender sweetness as if I was his own. I slowly raised a hand and caressed the underside of his jaw as I muttered, "I think I'll make it just fine, your majesty..."

"Wonderful news. Do not leave our world just yet, child. Not after all that has passed." Sunflare said more firmly as she approached, but her eyes and face still displayed a gaze of worry. Although her eyes then fell upon Celestia instead. "Celestia... Were you by his side the entire night?"

The Princess of the Dawn wasted no time in providing an explanation. "I was, Mother. I...couldn't leave him unattended. I feared the worst... I needed to be near him in case something went wrong."

Sunflare cast her eldest daughter a cockeyed stare, but Orbash was quick to throw in some much needed levity. "Oh, don't give her that look, my love. A queen could hardly call herself a queen if she did not fear for her king when he is bedridden."

Celestia and I winced at his words, Orbash being all too keen of the relationship between his daughter and I. Luna though... She held a wrist to her lips to stifle a giggle. She was especially aware of the relationship between her sister and I. Nightmare Moon remained silent, but Sunflare... She just rolled her eyes. That stalwart fiery mare was not so quick to give the two of us her uncompromised blessings just yet. And I would have expected no less from her. Regardless, she then cleared her throat. "At any rate... I suppose you have a debriefing for us, champion of humanity?"

"Yeah... You all need to know what happened out there." I replied while Celestia tightened her winged grip around me. The room felt crowded, but I felt safe. I was in the company of the most powerful ponies in the world. There was nothing to fear. With all eyes on me, I began to recount the events of that desperate mission. "He really was there... It was...disturbing to see him for the first time. Not quite a man or a ghost, everything about the emperor felt wrong..."

"Unsurprising, really. I could not imagine him ever being restored to his prime, even through the methods we discovered." Orbash interjected at the first opportunity. He then asked, "But still... You succeeded, yes? The emperor was dust by the time we reached you. The portal was closing. Whatever it is that transpired up there, the mission was a success. You did it, my boy."

"No... I didn't. I couldn't." I explained as I remembered the despair I felt upon learning the true functions of that portal. And I could see that my admission was confusing my guests. "I couldn't kill him... His defenses were too strong. And... The portal...had become self-sustaining. And I couldn't close it. I didn't know how. The only one who could close it was its creator and..."

The looks in their eyes... A gaze of utter silent shock was being cast towards me while they listened without interruption. I steeled myself as I revealed the most shocking thing I had heard that day. "You need to know this... I learned...that my death would change nothing. If I died, the emperor would die with me. And the portal...would remain open forever. My death...would've doomed your world to whatever my world's evils would've done to it."

All eyes fell upon one mare. Sunflare stood transfixed and did not even breathe as she took those words in. The very first thing she ever did upon revealing herself to us was attempt to kill me in order to bring an end to the war right then and there. But how could we have known... In attempting to end the war swiftly, she nearly doomed her world to being infected by the evils of Earth. No words were spoken, but the previously unflappable sun queen bowed her head as she no longer appeared to be looking at anyone. It was then we heard the voice of Nightmare Moon. "Then...if that is so... How? How did you convince the emperor to relent and close the portal?"

My eyes fell upon the projection crystal before turning to gaze at my helmet and the Element of Humanity upon its brow. "We...saw a vision... I think the Element of Humanity itself projected it. We were...in the past. I saw all of you there. I saw the emperor in his youth. And I saw... Her... The first bearer of the Element of Humanity."

There was a subtle gasp in the air. Celestia remained knowingly silent, having been told that much the previous night. But Luna did speak. "You saw Megan... You saw that day? When...it all ended?"

"I saw everything... I heard everything. And it was...hard to watch. All those lights shooting up into the sky for miles... And..." I muttered while feeling an almost painful sensation in my heart as I recalled that cataclysm. And I could still hear his sorrowful cries. "He broke. Seeing the consequences of his actions from an outsider's perspective... That was the push he needed. He tried to attack the projection of his past self and just... I think he always knew he was wrong... I think deep down that he wanted us to stop him... I suggested he do what Megan would've wanted. And he...set the portal to close. I didn't even deal the final blow. He severed his connection to me and...dissolved in my arms... The last thing he ever told me was to not follow his path..."

For a moment, they all stayed silent. And they then bowed their heads. Orbash then muttered softly, "If only, old friend... If only."

"Thank you for telling us this, my sunshine. We...needed to know this." Celestia whispered to me before placing a kiss upon my cheek. "But now, it's over. And we can...finally move on."

I did not even look her. My mind was elsewhere. How could I ever go back to Equestria after that? I knew there were many who came to resent me for my role in this war and the unending corruption of Equestria at the hands of Earth's influence. I asked softly, "Will they ever take me back after this?"

Luna stepped forward with her frown flattening into a very firm scowl. "Of course they will, my friend. I'm not certain if you were cognizant enough at the time, but they... Our people cheered when you were lowered into the encampment. Many were even in tears when the medics confirmed that you would make a full recovery. That hatred is gone...because there is no place for it. You were a pawn who turned on its master for our world. They know that now. You preserved our world even at the expense of ever going home again. Everyone who knows you here knows what you have done. And the grave risk you took to put a stop to this threat. You are safe. You are appreciated. And our people will gladly welcome you home with open arms. You have more than earned your place among us."

It sounded too good to be true. I still remember the wary stares of those around me after the truth was revealed by the king and queen. And the words of burning contempt from those in the infirmary. So many suffering injuries they may never recover from. I knew Luna meant well, but...I could not believe it. And that was what hurt most. All I did was nod to convey the illusion that I agreed. But I knew in my heart that I would never be fully welcome in Equestria again after all that has happened.

Sunflare began to step forward before she asked, "Is there anything else we need to know?"

"No... That's it. Aside from whatever was keeping me going failing just after that, nothing else happened before you two showed up." I replied weakly as I felt Celestia tighten her winged embrace around me. I think she knew I was not emotionally well at that time.

The sun queen turned her gaze to everyone who was present before she said, "If I may be so bold... Please depart for now. I wish to have a private audience with this man."

I felt Celestia pull me even more firmly against her while casting her mother an uneasy gaze. But the sun queen did not relent. "Please. I beg of you."

The sincerity in her voice never wavered. And it was just enough to convince them to leave. With great reluctance, Celestia rose from my side and followed her sister and father out the door. And one again, they did not have the presence of mind to turn off the crystal that served as Nightmare Moon's window into the conversation. I knew she was still watching. And would most likely take extreme measures if her mother tried anything.

As the sun queen gazed down at me without a word, I turned my gaze away from her and looked up at nothing at all. "Going to give me a private execution?"

I noticed the queen visibly flinch at my words. A look of shame filled her eyes. And without a word, she stepped over me and took Celestia's place at my side. The sun queen draped her wing over me, her touch exceptionally warm, and whispered to me. "I cannot apologize enough for that day... I was hasty... Much too hasty... And I doubted you. Forgive me, child. I shan't part with this shame easily."

This unexpected tenderness left me in a state of mild disbelief. I could have sworn she hated me when we first met. The ruthlessness of her methods, the brutally cold tone o her words. She would have slaughtered me had her daughter and husband not intervened. I asked weakly, "If Orbash wasn't there, would you have...?"

Sunflare sighed bitterly beside me as she held me against her. "There are no words to describe how much I need that stallion... I would even hazard a guess that I need him more than he needs me. He is the only one who can temper the inferno in my heart. I would have surely...made very many mistakes had he not been there for me. I love my king... I love that silly fool, no matter how many times he may pester me."

Once again, that gentle sincerity filled every word she said. I would have never believed such tenderness would ever be possible in that mare after the day she tried to destroy me. And if Orbash... If that wonderful loveable king had not calmed her down in the way only he could... What would she have done? What even brought them together? It was a mystery that only she had the answer to. "How did you two even meet?"

A nostalgic sigh hissed from her nostrils as I saw her starting to smile a bit. "Far too long ago. Well before the first sunrise. His memory and mine only go back so far. We do not even recall when our lives began. It was as if Orbash and I...merely existed since the beginning. But I... I was an anomaly in the eyes of Equestria's primitive population. You would think that a mare as radiant as I, one who is tied to the light of the flame, would draw wonder and awe from those around me. But no, they were wary of me. A creature of light in a world eternally wrapped in shadows? Such a thing could never be natural. And I accepted my solitude. Until he came for me."

I did not ask questions, but it was surprising to hear that one in possession of powers attuned to light and warmth could be so feared by the people of Equestria just because of how out of place she looked. An unexpectedly somber start for the mighty sun queen herself. I then asked, "What did Orbash do when he found you?"

"He pursued me. Relentlessly." Sunflare spoke as I heard a barely muffled snicker from her as some amusing memories were probably playing out in her head. "Instead of fearing me, he was drawn to me because of how glorious I looked in the shadows. I thought he was being absurd and repelled him, having grown too accustomed to being feared and ostracized. I attempted to flee, but he would always track me down. And when I came to see running was impossible, I tried to use force. But he matched me blow for blow, spell for spell. I could not destroy him...for he was my equal."

A most interesting origin of Equestria's first royal couple... I could already picture it in my head, Orbash chasing her through the night, whittling away at her emotional isolation with witty banter until finally coming to a magical battle that ended in a stalemate. Sunflare then sighed almost happily, "I was...in awe to see one as powerful as me repel every magical assault I unleashed. He was so kind and witty, yet so very patient to never give up. Although I admit we ran ourselves ragged before I could be convinced. And when I demanded I be told what it was he wanted from me, he simply stated...that I was all he wanted."

I found myself smiling, still picturing how that wonderful stallion would slowly win her over. Sunflare smiled calmly as she closed her eyes. "He took me under his wing...and we were never apart again after that. He introduced me to the people of our world and they grew to love me as well. Even began to savor the light of my form and the warmth of my magical energies. And in time...we were blessed with two daughters... And I was never more grateful for my king of the night having found me."

That was easily the happiest tone of voice I ever heard out of her. To see the most terrifying mare in the world so calm and pleased was...enlightening, to say the least. I asked softly, "Orbash really is something, huh?"

"There is no other stallion out there who can compare to my king. He is the finest. The first sire. There will never be a stallion that can come close to that wonderful man. And he is all mine." Sunflare replied as I even heard her chuckle a bit upon saying that last bit. Knowing someone like Orbash is her husband must have been making her feel like the luckiest mare in the world. "And I do my part for him... He can be...too soft. Too forgiving. And I have to rectify that when I must."

"I see where Nightmare Moon gets her defiant streak from." I retorted while I suddenly realized Nightmare Moon was still watching from nearby. That crystal atop the dresser left us as an open book. The Princess of Dreams was still watching, but she was being very quiet. Remembering that Sunflare had requested we be alone together, I tried asking an important question. "Do you think you'll ever try to convince Orbash to...let me be brought to the gallows?"

"Child..." Sunflare muttered before she lifted her head to gaze down upon me. "Orbash loves you. He cherishes you as if you were his own. He will never agree to let you serve as a sacrifice, no matter how I or anyone else may argue. If nothing else, please believe that you are dearly cherished by my king."

Yet again, it sounded too good to be true. Sky Beak had always been the closest thing to a father I had ever known in Equestria. I could not imagine another, let alone one who was deeply attuned to humanity's betrayal of Equestria, even coming close to that. But as that wonderful papa bird passed my mind, I realized how dearly I was missing him. I last saw him just before I left for the last mission. Did he know I was all right? I asked softly, "Before I forget... Sky Beak. Is he all right?"

"From what I understand, none were harmed during that final siege. He and his fellow archers are all well, from last I heard." Sunflare explained while keeping me tucked under her wing. That was good news. And it was to be expected. The archers had always been well out of harm's way since the very start. The sun queen then whispered, "I am certain he would be pleased to know you have awakened. I shall summon for him once we are done here."

In was then that a voice filled the room. Or perhaps it merely filled our heads. "Mother, I do believe he is still very much afraid of you. You have much to repent for, do you not?"

Nightmare Moon. She was still watching. And she could still reach us. For being so fearful of her own mother for so long, it was impressive to hear her more or less reprimand her own far deadlier mother. The bridge had been crossed some time earlier. And Sunflare did not deny that statement. She said softly, "I know... I know, my child... I have made...many mistakes... Many missteps fueled by old instincts bound by flames. I am not your father... I never will be."

"I do not want you to be my father, Mother. Be you. And find it in you to look past old injustices. You do understand that the man in your grasp is a dear friend to Equestria, yes? You know he is not a threat to our people, do you not?" Nightmare Moon asked from the comfort of her private chambers. She used to be so deathly fearful of the mare who was always her mother. Born a demon, but risen as a true princess, but Sunflare was so unwilling to see that. Not that I could blame her.

"No... No, he most certainly is not our enemy... Nor even the slightest threat." Sunflare muttered softly before I saw her eyes gazing at me. She sighed harshly before saying, "I fear I have far to go to repent for my transgressions these past weeks... But know this, child. I hold no ill will towards you. The only one I hold disappointment for is myself. As queen of Equestria, I beg of you... Please find it in you to forgive me one day... Certainly not now, but someday."

I thought such words were beyond her. I never imagined the queen of Equestria, so stalwart in her stance an beliefs, would beg a lowly mortal man like me for forgiveness. For one, I was without words. All I could do was rest my fingers upon her wrist. She whispered at me gingerly, "You have always been so good to my daughters... Please, continue to be kind to them. They adore you."

"I will." My response was immediate and quiet, my eyes gazing at the ceiling in all manner of fatigue. But I then felt the sun queen pull me up against her. Even her arm was draped across me. "Your majesty...?"

"Shhh... No words for now, child." She whispered to me as I could see her eyes had closed. She felt so warm... Not at all like the inferno I had come to associate her with. More like...the gentle rays of the morning sun. Warm and comforting. "Let me hold you for now. Stay beneath my wings...and I shall keep the darkness away."

The fiery and terrifying queen was no longer present. I think only the mother in Sunflare was present at that time. I leaned just slightly into her warm embrace. Sunflare was a mare I had learned to fear. And now...it was like she was a completely different person from the mare I first met. All but alone, I closed my eyes and just basked in the warmth of the sun queen beside me.

I think I was starting to drift off for a nap when I heard a knock at the door. The voice of Orbash called out from beyond it. "Sunflare, my love? We have a visitor who wishes to see his boy. Shall I bring him in?"

His boy? Was it...Sky Beak? Sunflare's eyes popped open at the tapping of a hoof on the door before she lifted her head. "Yes, I suppose he may enter."

"Thank you, my dear. Right this way, my good man." I heard the moon king reply before the door swung open to reveal that glorious stallion. And stepping in behind him was a very familiar hippogriff stallion. It had been some time since I last saw him out of uniform. And the instant our eyes locked, Sky Beak rushed to my side. "Easy there, friend. I assure you he's quite well in spite of things."

"I know, your majesty. Just..." Sky Beak muttered before Sunflare had to pull back from me. My father all but threw himself onto me as he put his arms for me while fresh tears began to flow. "You really are...going to be fine... I just about fainted when I saw you drop like that, my boy..."

"I'm OK, papa bird... I'll be all right..." I muttered as I too failed to hide my tears. For a while, I really thought I was saying goodbye to him for the final time. And now I was back in his warm feathered embrace. I contained my voice, but my tears still flowed. Trying to keep the emotions from festering for too long, I then asked, "Is everyone all right?"

"Yes... Yes, we all got through that last one unscathed." He replied while trying to dry his tears. I saw that wonderful stallion starting to smile while even chuckling at the thought in hindsight. "It got pretty harrowing back there. We gave them everything, even right down to our last arrow. My comrades and I were about ready to retreat by air, but...I guess you finished thing sup at just the last second."

It was a dreadful thought. Having the entire encampment drained of all ammunition for the archers and sentries? It really did come down to the wire. It was such an uncomfortable thought, imagining an ocean of Hollows swarming towards the encampment undeterred. "Sorry for the close call... Things got complicated up there."

We held each other for a moment longer while Orbash stepped closer and took a seat at my bedside. He then looked over his shoulder at the projection crystal atop my dresser. He cracked a smile as he said, "It seems we forgot to turn this off. Are you still there, my dear?"

"Yes, Father. And you may deactivate it. I feel ready for a nap myself." I heard Nightmare Moon's voice speak throughout the room. She then said softly, "Take care, my friend. We will speak again soon."

"Yeah... You too." I muttered while the glow of the crystal finally faded. I then asked softly to Sky Beak, "We can...finally go home, right?"

"Mmhm, definitely. And I'll be sure to tell our family that you'll pull through just fine." He whispered to me while instinctively bringing his beak to my head for a bit of preening only to notice that it was wrapped in bandages. I cracked an amused smirk once I noticed what he was trying to do. He then asked, "Oh, right... Did they really take it all off like that?"

"Yeah, they did. On the bright side, I won't be needing a haircut until spring rolls around." I retorted while not minding having no hair on my head for a while.

"Oh, that's a shame. I wouldn't mind doing a little preening now and then. It always made Terramar and Silverstream happy when they were just little things." Sky Beak chuckled at his lack of observations. Although he then turned his gaze towards Sunflare and Orbash. "Thank you again for watching over my boy out there. I... I don't know what I would've done if he didn't make it back."

Sunflare nodded in acknowledgement even while she appeared uncomfortably pressed up against the wall and window beside my bed to make room for him. "We did all we could, Sky Beak."

Orbash then leaned closer and asked, "Speaking of which... What can you tell us about your boy here?"

That whimsical tone in Orbash's voice... The wiggling of his eyebrows told me he was playing upon the camaraderie he displayed with Sky Beak the last time they were in the same room with each other. Two wonderful fathers that had more in common than most would expect. And so Sky Beak said, "Well, for starters... He's a great listener. You'll see him go quiet ore often than not, but that's because he's listening in on everything happening around him. But when he does speak, he speaks well."

True to his words, I did not interrupt or interject. I merely listened in on everything that was said. And Orbash listened well too. When I glanced at Sunflare, she was merely smirking as if she knew exactly what it was her husband wanted to know. He just wanted to get to know me better from the only other father in the world who saw me as his own.

Sky Beak was so kind with how he described me. Even brought up things I would not have expected him to notice. I suppose hippogriffs really do have great eyes for more than just seeing what is on the surface. Orbash eventually chuckled and said, "Ha, you and I should share a drink sometime, my good man. I think we would be good friends."

"Oh, how grand. Now I have to deal with two of you now, don't I?" Sunflare grumbled while the two stallions beside us just laughed together. They really do have a lot in common. And I felt blessed in their company.

It was right around then that there was a knock at the door. And the voice on the other side was not one I recognized. Not immediately at least. "Hello? Am I interrupting? I need to ask any visitors to vacate the premises for a little while. I need to run a few tests and examinations on our patient, please."

It sounded like one of the medics. And my three guests looked at each other in understanding with Sky Beak speaking first. "I guess we shouldn't take up too much of your time. I'm sure you'll be getting many visitors today."

"Yeah, probably... We'll see each other again soon, right?" I asked while Sky Beak touched his beak to my brow. I shed a tear, not wanting to be away from him so soon. "Love you, papa bird..."

"Love you too, my boy. I'll stop by again when the opportunity comes up." He replied while Sunflare began to step over me to leave my bed. Sky Beak then asked, "Now then, about that drink..."

"Ha, right this way, my good man. They just brought in a shipment of fine wine I've been wanting to sample." The moon king retorted while leading his wife and new friend to the door. Once it was open, he stepped back to allow our guest to enter. "He's all yours, doctor."

"Thank you, your majesties." The voice replied before I saw the doctor enter while my guests departed. I never got his name, but he was the same stallion I spoke to during my brief stay in the infirmary. He had a look of relief on his eyes the instant his gaze met mine. "Ah, good to see you're already awake. We weren't entirely certain how long you would be out. How are you feeling? Any symptoms I should know about?"

"I'm just tired...and feel occasional bouts of disorientation that clear up in a few seconds." I replied as I even felt exactly those symptoms right there.

"Typical concussion symptoms. Only time will fix that. Now then... I'll just take a look here and be out of your way." He spoke before starting to examine the readings on the medical equipment and basically giving me a full physical inspection. He muttered to himself while going about his business, apparently finding nothing too worrisome to bring up.

Seeing the medic there though... It made me wonder how many wounded he had to treat. How many he could not save. My heart heavy with dread, I turned my gaze towards the ceiling and asked a question I needed an answer for. "Doc... Be honest with me here... How many did we lose?"

"You mean...how many deaths?" He asked softly while I could only turn my gaze away from him. And the answer I got... It was the last thing I expected to hear. "None. Not one confirmed loss. I was shocked too by the end of it, but really... We lost no one out here."

"You're kidding... Not one death? Everyone made it...?" I asked as I turned my head to look at him. It sounded like nothing short of a miracle. At least until I recalled how our R&D lab team did everything in their power to prioritize survival rates for our infantry. Did we get lucky? Or did all our preparations pay off? But...there was one. One person I had resigned myself to believing would never survive her injuries. "But...what about Trixie?"

I saw the enemy descend upon her. I saw her vital signs flatline. I watched my friend...die. Surely... Surely she was... The doctor turned away from me in foreboding silence. Just when I began to believe that Trixie ended up becoming a tragic exception, he spoke softly. "Good news or bad news first?"

I did not even need to think it over. "Good news first."

"The good news is that Miss Lulamoon is going to make it." He replied as I felt an overwhelming sense of relief in my heart. And...it hit me harder than I expected. I whimpered with eyes squinted shut, tears squeezing themselves out. I was so sure I would never see her alive again... And it was when I finally managed to calm my nerves that the doctor spoke. "And that's the only good news I have."

This alarmed me. The only good news was that Trixie was going to live? Then... What else was there? I did not even have to ask to provoke an explanation. "We were struggling with supplies and her wounds were severe... A medically induced coma was deemed necessary, but... There were complications. She's going to be out for some time, but we have an estimate that she will come out of it in a few weeks at least. And even then..."

A coma. A medically induced coma. But...those are reversible under ideal circumstances, I do believe... But I barely even had time to think before he revealed the rest to me. "Even once she does wake up... Miss Lulamoon is going to be in for a long and difficult road to recovery. A full recovery is possible...but it will take time to get there. Possibly years..."

I felt...so helpless as I heard this. I turned my head back and gazed at the ceiling. The war was over. Victory was ours. So then why... Why this? Why to her? Why did you do that for me, Trixie? Would she ever even be able to perform again? Was her career...over entirely?

A new wave of guilt washed over me. A friend of mine... All but crippled because of my presence... How would I even be able to face her now? My lack of a response gave the medic reason to focus on his task. Just when I thought he was finishing up, I found the will to speak. "Doc... Be honest with me here. Was everything that happened... Everyone who got hurt... Was it my fault?"

I could not even bring myself to look at the one who presided over all of the wounded in the infirmary. He saw everyone who was wounded because of my presence. He probably heard some...very unpleasant things being said by those he had to treat. I heard the tapping of a pencil against a clipboard as he surely pondered his response. "As a doctor, I have to look at the hows and the whys of why I have a patient before me. As for the whys... No, I don't believe you had any real involvement here. We were all in this mess for the same reason you were. And it's not like you didn't get out of that last major battle unscathed. We were all the victims here. And now that every last one of us gets to go home alive... I think that's enough. There's no reason for you to blame yourself."

I wanted to believe him, I really did. But I could not. Hatred is not so easily cast aside. And I heard and saw enough. The doctor then did say, "Anyway, it looks like you're through the worst of it. Just take it easy for a while. I know broken bones take a lot out of you, but only time will heal that."

"I guess I should increase my calcium intake..." I muttered while knowing proper nutrition helps with healing. With his work done, the medic left the room. And I was left alone with my thoughts. Those wretched bitter thoughts. The war was over, so then why did it feel like it was not?

So much happened because of my presence. A war no one wanted. Experiences the people of Equestria should not have been exposed to. Wounds and scars they may never recover from. Everything felt futile. An empty victory. It was not good for me to be left alone with my very dark thoughts. As much as I wanted to be alone and away from those who were harmed on my watch, the door to my room soon opened again. And I did not even turn my gaze to the visitor while closing my eyes to feign sleep. Perhaps if they thought I was sleeping, they would depart.

I was given no such thing. I expected the sound of hooves, but the faint tapping along the floor was not a sound I immediately recognized. But I kept my eyes closed. They were looming right over me. And then... Something touched my left hand. Took hold of it. Not a hoof, but...another hand. One that was...lined with scales.

This presence... I could not ignore it. I opened my eyes and gazed up at my visitor even as she gazed down at me. Ember stood beside me, her body still bearing white bandages upon her torso. And for a moment, there were no words between us. I started to part my lips to try and speak, but Ember silenced me. She brought a finger to my lips and shook her head. She knew I was exhausted, even if speaking was well within my ability at the time. She closed her eyes and lowered her head, bringing her lips to mine. That one kiss... It reminded me of everything that had been pushed to the back of my mind. I had forgotten just...how vital Ember's presence had become for me during those dark days. And through that kiss, I felt a glimmer of courage in my heart. Courage she had always given me.

Those beautiful scarlet eyes gazing down at me... Why was she so silent? I watched in silence as Ember gently crawled past me and rested beside me to my right. Her hand rested delicately upon my chest with her fingers lightly dragging along it. We said nothing for a short while, but we never looked away. The beautiful yet powerful Dragon Lord did eventually speak. But only through a whisper. "They said you would make a full recovery. Is that true? Are you feeling all right?"

"I think so. The worst is over." I retorted with my left hand rising to my chest to rest over hers. It was hard to feel miserable in Ember's presence. None had done more for me and my misery behind closed doors. I then whispered, "Thanks for being here... I...didn't realize how much I need you right now."

"You'll always have me." She whispered before draping her beautiful blue wing over me. "I think...we all a good long quiet period right now. War just isn't good for your head. I never thought I'd ever be so ready to go home and just...relax."

Going home to Ponyville felt like an impossibility. Like something I would never experience again. Certainly not after everything that had happened and what was known now. Ponyville welcomed me with curious stares and genuine kindness when I first showed up. Now that word of the war's true nature had surely spread, what would happen once I returned home? Would the populace run me out of town? It was a feeling of being so thoroughly unwanted I could not shake no matter how I tried. Once I started thinking about it, I could not stop. At least not until I felt Ember very firmly grasp my hand in hers. This physical stimuli was just enough to provide a distraction. And when I looked at Ember, she reached out and placed a kiss upon my lips once more. "The war might be over, but you're not safe and sound yet. I'm not going anywhere until you're back home."

"Thank you... I feel like you might be the only one giving me the strength to not just...sink into bitterness." I muttered with a sigh. What was wrong with me... Why was I so fearful of things I knew surely were not true, but could not be convinced of otherwise? Even through those beautiful and loving scarlet eyes, I had to wonder if Ember held any sort of resentment or fear towards me. Especially after seeing her cower before me that one night. "Are you...afraid of me?"

"Of course not. Not anymore. It's not like there's a reason for you to get fierce in the face of the enemy now that there's no reason to fight." Ember replied while looking not that surprised over such a question. She then yawned and cuddled up to me even more cozily. "Look... You're just tired. We're all tired here. Just take it easy for now. Once we're all back home and going back to old routines that made us happy."

It felt like a small eternity had gone by. I almost could not even remember what it was like to live in a place as idyllic as Ponyville by then. But...what about her? I then asked, "What happier routines are you looking forward to?"

"I... Uh..." Ember muttered before she rolled her eyes in annoyance. "All right, I guess I don't have anything happy to look forward to once I get back home... But I do have a good idea of where to take things once I do. I've got some plans in mind... A real step forward in the right direction for all those boulderheads. And from what I overheard, my subordinates really seem to have found some renewed respect for Equestria's people. They might be the advocates I need for some real reforms in the dragon lands."

"I have faith in you, Ember. I know you'll pull through." I muttered as I tightened my grasp around her fingers. Ember...had performed splendidly during this entire mess. I had nothing but the highest hopes for her. But now that the war was ending... Would we have to say goodbye? "You were one of the best things to happen to me out here, Ember... I don't think I would've made it this far without you."

"I was happy to be here, James. Because you made it all worth it." Ember whispered to me as we shared a quiet gaze. I expected her to smile, but she did not. She appeared at peace, yet looked uneasy. She then whispered, "You'll be going home soon... And...I can't follow you..."

These words stabbed me in the heart. The longer Ember had been by my side out there, the more constant and needed her presence became. And now...I could not bear the thought of having to say goodbye. With my throat clenching in newfound grief, I felt fresh tears starting to build at the edge of my eyes. Goodbyes are rarely happy. And some...are more painful than others. Ember saw the glistening of my eyes and released my hand from her grasp so she could bring hers to my cheek. "Why are you crying?"

I barely maintained my composure, not wanting to weep right into her face. "I...don't want to see you leave..."

We could not resist. With tears flowing free, we both brought our lips together. A very loving, yet very sad kiss... It would not be long before we would part ways. And I was dreading it. Falling in love with one whose duties require them to be far from the home of the other... I only then realized what a challenge it is to sustain such a bond. And when that kiss ended and our weeping eyes opened once more, Ember whispered in pleading. "Please... Take me home with you... Let me stay by your side forever..."

"I want to... But...your people need you, right?" I asked with my heart aching. I knew Ember would be happy in Ponyville. It would take some getting used to, but she would surely come to appreciate modern Equestrian living. And yet...I knew it could not be. Not when her people desperately needed her guidance more than I did.

Ember snorted quietly with a look of frustration in her scarlet eyes. "I can dream, can't I? A big part of me wants to run... Just...run away... Just so I can be with you forever. Even with all the battles and the marching and the worrying... These have been some of the happiest days of my life in years out here... All because I had you. And that's because...you still give me hope."

I whimpered into her embrace. Nothing had changed. Her love still burned hot as the volcanoes of the dragon lands. And I knew mine still blazed for her. It was so hard resisting the urge to say it. And it would have been such a perfect time to tell her. The war was over. Not a single life had been lost. And Equestria would remain untouched by the sins of my world. What better time to tell the wonderful dragoness that I love her and let us finally became something more?

But I could not. And I knew I should not. No matter what wonderful things she said to me, no matter how hotly her heart burned for me, I knew I would never be worthy of the Dragon Lord herself. Not after all that happened. Her people wanted me dead. Made an attempt on my life to end the war. They would never accept their queen finding love with a man whose presence unleashed such a disaster onto their world. The dragons...were the one race of people I could never see letting that fact go. I was in love...and I knew it could never be. But I could not tell her. At least...allowing our love to simmer at that threshold without ever crossing it was...just comforting enough.

We held each other to savor this moment of respite. Just the two of us. I knew I could never be hers, but I still whispered a precious request to her. "Ember... Will you...please stay with me? At least until I'm back home in Ponyville?"

"Of course, my little warrior poet." She said without the slightest hesitation. Ember then reached out and placed a kiss upon my brow before displaying such a tender smile. "And with this kiss, I renew my vow. I shall watch over you at all times until you're back home in familiar territory. I mean that's all right with you, yeah? You don't mind me being with you at all times?"

I knew better than to question the vow of a dragon. Their devotion is unwavering. And I was dearly touched. "I never tire of you, Ember... Thank you."

"I'm here for you. You know that." She whispered with those delicate fingers tracing along my jaw. Although she then asked, "Come to think of it... Do you think you're well enough to stand? It's gotta be boring staying stuck in here all day. Are your wounds stable enough?"

"You know, that's a good question. We should ask one of the medics. Is the guy who was just up here still around?" I replied while wondering if I could actually stand. I did not feel quite as out of it as I was immediately after suffering that injury. How quickly does the body stabilize after suffering a broken bone?

Ember brought her hand to my face once again to cradle it tenderly. "If you don't mind me leaving your side for a minute, I can go check."

I did not refuse. Ember crawled over me and out of my bed before leaving the room. A couple of minutes later, she came back up with a subtle smile on her lips. "Yes, he was still down there. And it sounds like your vital signs are stable enough to get rid of...um...whatever all this stuff is."

Ember had no idea what to even make of the medical equipment beside me. But I did like the sound of that. I nodded and said, "Sure. Let them know I'd like to not be confined to being bedridden."

She departed again and was gone a while longer this time. When I heard Ember coming back up, it sounded like she was not alone. A number of hooves clopping could be heard coming up the stairs. And when she stepped inside, the same doctor as before followed after her along with a couple of other unicorn medics. He greeted me with a smile and said, "All right then, Mr. James. It sounds like you want out and we agree you have stabilized enough to be discharged. Just be sure to take it easy for a while and avoid subjecting your head to any force."

"Will do, doc. Thanks." I replied while Ember stepped to the side and watched them go about their business with her arms crossed. The medical machines went silent as they were deactivated, although I still winced when they extracted the needles from me that had me hooked up to an IV drip. Ember's eyes visibly narrowed at the first sign of pain in me. But once I was disconnected and the entry points for the needles cleaned and bandaged, the medics used levitation magic to carry the equipment out of the room with them. Just like that, my room felt much more spacious and not quite as cozy. I suppose it did not matter. I would not be there for much longer anyway.

Ember stepped my way once the door closed behind the medics. She looked me over with her gaze softening. I must have not looked quite as vulnerable now that I was not in the presence of medical devices. She then asked, "Did they hurt you? It looked like you were in pain for a moment."

"Pain is inevitable when needles are involved. Nobody likes them, but it's a necessity at times." I replied while looking at the back of my bandaged arm. "I always hated medical needles, but I've grown a little more tolerant of them over the years."

"Something tells me that's one bit of modern medicine my people will be especially unhappy with." Ember said with a crooked smile. I think she was actually looking forward to the unpleasant reactions of her people getting their first vaccinations. Although she then said with a softer smile, "You're already looking better."

"I guess I must not look so bad when I don't have a bunch of tubes and wires hooked up to me." I muttered as I pushed my blankets off me. I was still clad in just my boxers. I would either need to get dressed or have something draped over me before I could step outside. But one question still remained. Could I even stand? "Ember? Help me up?"

"Sure. Easy now." She said with barely more than a whisper. She stepped over to m and took hold of my hand to steadily pull me up to a sitting position. I was expecting an immediate surge of vertigo, but the strain of pushing myself up was not as disorienting as expected. I turned to my left, set my feet upon the floor, and let Ember take each hand into her grasp. "All right then... Slowly..."

Ember began to step back very cautiously. Her powerful grip pulling me up. But as I rose to my feet, the physical strain proved to be too much. I felt...shockingly unsteady. So much so that I was afraid for Ember to let me go. "Ember... I'm afraid to walk."

"Still dizzy? OK, let's get you...there." Ember replied while stepping forward to let me take a seat back on my bed. My head cleared up enough once I was seated, but I still bowed my head in frustration. To not even be able to stand without risk of toppling over... If I were to fall, I would hit my head and be right back in bed with even more aggravated injuries. It was a risk we could not take. As I bowed my head, Ember stepped closer and lifted my face by the chin to look at me. "Is there any way we can get you downstairs without you having to walk?"

Disappointed as I was, I still had one idea. "I'm not even really sure how they got me here from the infirmary. If I had to guess, the only way I'll get out of here that doesn't involve a stretcher is with a wheelchair. And that's if they have the right size for me."

"Wheel...chair? I don't even know what that is, but I'll check. Wait here for me." Ember replied in confusion before leaving my room once more. And for another fifteen minutes or so, I sat there on the bed with only the muffled sounds of activity outside the command center reaching my ears. But when I finally did hear noise coming up the stairs, it was...rather noisy. Like someone was dragging something bulky up the steps. And once the door swung open, Ember stepped in backwards while looking at me over her shoulder. "Found one!"

Sure enough she found exactly what I needed. A wheelchair was pulled in behind her and it was just my size too. I felt my heart light up now that we had a way to get me out of the house. Ember rolled it over before stopping it before, but she then took a good look at me. "Let's get you dressed first. Might be too drafty out there for you right now."

"Sounds like a good idea." I retorted while Ember went rooting around in my dresser before pulling out the first shirt and pair of pants she could find. She was very attentive and helped me get those and a pair of socks on without a fuss. It was...strange, having the Dragon Lord herself serving as my caretaker. I felt compelled to ask, "Wouldn't you rather ask someone else to do this?"

"You got a problem with me doing all this?" She replied while raising an eyebrow in a manner that had me fearing that I had offended her. Instead, Ember just smirked at me and said, "No, I don't mind at all. This is easy for someone with my strength."

Inquiring further could be dangerous. I knew why she was going so far out of her way to do this for me. It was for the same reason Novo gave me a sponge bath without any prompting. It was all out of love. And few hearts burn as hot as that of a dragon. I did not want Ember to feel like I did not appreciate her actions and allowed her to go about her business uninterrupted.

Once I was clothed enough, all that was left was to get me into the wheelchair. Ember had it set just to my right. She stood before me and took hold of my hands. "OK, if we can get you standing and then turn you to the left, we can get you seated just fine."

"I gotcha. Hold onto me." I said while Ember began to step backwards. I felt that lack of balance as soon as I was on my feet. The taller I was, the more I could feel myself sway. Ember quickly stepped forward and practically embraced me against her. I asked softly, "You got me?"

"I got you. Just turn to the left. Easy now..." Ember instructed while I started to shuffle my feet. For being so small and light, Ember was as sturdy as a bolder. She would not let me fall. After making a quarter rotation, she helped me step backwards before having me sit in the wheelchair. Ember then got my foot panels in place to keep my feet off the floor and rested her hands on her hips while admiring the results of our efforts. "Easier than I expected. Are you feeling all right?"

"About as good as I can get in spite of everything. And thank you..." I muttered while not used to having to be so reliant on others just to get out of bed. I let out a long wheeze as I said, "I'm sorry to be such a bother..."

"Don't say that. It's not your fault. I'm happy to be here for you. You've done so much for me, so I've gotta do my part." Ember stepped forward with a smile and gingerly brought her finger to the underside of my chin. She smiled so tenderly at me as she added, "You'll be back on your feet before much longer, I'm sure. I know it could've been much worse."

The next challenge was just getting the wheelchair down the stairs. Ember rolled me over to the open door, but then paused as I too looked down the stairwell with some apprehension. "Uh... You sure this is a good idea?"

"Er... Now that you mention it, I didn't think this part through. Let me just..." Ember mumbled before she started very gently pushing me forward while also making sure I was tilted back slightly. I felt my heart jump the instant the main wheels started to go over the edge of the first step, but...I did not fall. The wheels turned while never leaving the surface. With machinelike rigidity, Ember held the push handles of the wheelchair very firmly while painstakingly slowly descending the stairs step by step. "There we go..."

It is easy to forget just how strong Ember is. Strong enough to keep a loaded wheelchair constantly making contact with the steps at all times. It took a couple of minutes, but we did finally reach the bottom of the stairs. "There we go. It'll be easier going back up, I think."

"Aha, there's our hero!" A hearty voice called out just seconds after we entered the common area. The royal family were seated around the main table with the exception of Nightmare Moon. Seaspray had popped in for whatever reason and was the first to turn to me. "So good to see you up and about, Sir James! Although...you are feeling well, yes?"

"I've felt worse. Although I think it's safe to say I'm through the worst of it." I replied while feeling rather pleased to see a familiar friendly face among us. I then asked, "Say, Admiral... How bad was it out there while I was away?"

The hippogriff commander, true to form, started putting on some familiar theatrics as he recalled the siege that assaulted the encampment during that battle. "Easily the most harrowing trial of my entire career! Waves and waves of Hollows as far as the eye could see! A hundred thousand strong, so I heard! And we made every shot count! Not a single arrow was wasted! We fired and fired until we could fire no more! We stood our ground and held the line until all of our quivers were empty! Which...means we're still fresh out, come to think of it."

Celestia then added, "He was atop the walls on the side I was guarding. We faced the enemy together."

"I won't ask... I just wanna put this mess behind me." I muttered while not wanting to get caught up in a conversation over something I was just so glad to be over and done with. Although I did ask, "But the Alabaster is en route, right?"

"Yes, her majesty Queen Novo is on her way as we speak with the holds loaded with supplies to help tide everyone over until evacuations are complete." Seaspray replied while rubbing his hand over the curve of his helmet. He then asked, "Are you heading out now, sir? Shall I have a cadre of my men covering you from above?"

Ember pointed out an oversight right away. "You just said you're all out of arrows. How do you plan on intervening when you've got nothing for your bow?"

Seaspray did not even have a response and amusingly struggled to find words to say. Ember then leaned on the side of my wheelchair and said proudly, "Leave him to me. If anyone gives him trouble, my bare fists will be enough. I'm more than strong enough to tear a man in two. Already did that plenty of times during that last battle."

"Let's...uh...not bring that up again. I was conscious enough to watch, you know..." I winced at the memories of the sights and sounds of that incident. Chilling...

"Oh right, you...really were still all there." Ember sheepishly chuckled while trying to brush off that topic. She then said, "Anyway... Do you all think James is still in need of a bodyguard?"

"I can't imagine that being necessary now. The war is over. Our people are no longer in danger. So I do not..." Luna replied before trailing off in thought for a moment. She then cast a frown at the two of us and said, "While there is no logical reason for anyone to seek to do harm to him... Please watch over him all the same. If he is harmed or if there are any complications regarding his condition..."

"I'll take care of him. He's in my hands." The Dragon Lord declared with her hand on my shoulder. She then started to push me along to the door leading outside. "Now then, I think the man's in need of some fresh air. I'll bring him back in a while."

"Take care, Dragon Lord. We will be here." Sunflare said as they all watched us depart. And I have to say... Feeling the rays of the sun falling upon me felt especially soothing. All with no armor getting in the way. I closed my eyes once the wheels were on the grass and savored that warmth for just a moment.

I heard Ember whisper directly into my ear while I still held my eyes closed. "It was always cloudy until today. I guess the sun really wanted to see you."

"Ember... Actually, considering that Celestia is responsible for its movements, I guess that makes sense." I said with an abrupt snicker interrupting my words. Whatever the case, it gave me a good feeling. A very good feeling. A feeling like...

I recognized this serenity. Someone was near. Someone dear to me. I turned to my left and saw her. Rain Shine emerging from the domed hut she had surely woven for herself like many times before. She must have known I had emerged from the command center and had stepped out to join me. Our eyes locked for a moment before the towering kirin chieftain stepped my way and lowered her horn to my brow. I remained still and closed my eyes, savoring this reunion.

"Fractured...but the cracks have become narrower. You are healing, my dear." I heard Rain Shine whisper to me. Although she then added, "Although...I sense a deep anxiety... Something still remains..."

"Please... Stay with me, Rain. I know I've got a ways to go before I'm back up to 100%." I whispered almost desperately to my precious companion. Her presence was truly like no other, soothing me in ways even Ember could not. Man and kirin... A natural bond like no other.

"I shall, my love. All is well now. Peace has been restored. And...he is no longer among us... Is he not?" Rain Shine whispered as a gaze of pleading filled her eyes. I knew of who she spoke. The one she once loved.

She needed to learn what happened up there. And so I said, "Rain... You need to know this. I didn't slay the emperor. I couldn't. His defenses were too strong. But I didn't need to. He...broke. He closed the portal himself and severed his connection to me. He remembered the value of what he gave up... I couldn't bring myself to hate him by then."

"He...remembered? He revoked his twisted beliefs before it was too late?" Rain Shine asked while I could only nod. Ember even stepped around the wheelchair to get a better look at me as she surely heard that too. The kirin chieftain closed her eyes as a single tear slid between their lids. "Thank you...for telling me this. This soothes my heart."

"You actually got through to him? I guess the humans from back then weren't entirely unreasonable after all." Ember said with a look of surprise in her eyes. She was nowhere near as versed in humanity's history as most of the other royalty among us, but she knew enough. And I saw her beam quite proudly at me. "And from the sound of it...you won that battle without using your sword. A poet to the end, huh?"

That actually got a laugh out of me. There was a certain nobility in knowing that combat was not what won that battle. And I did feel just a twinge of pride in my uncertain heart over that knowledge. "Thanks... I needed that."

I looked at my smiling shield-sisters while they looked at me. The three of us together again... It was a return to a recent normalcy for me. While out on the Empty Plains, things would be fine as long as I had them. Ember then turned to Rain Shine and asked, "We were out here getting some fresh air. Would you mind keeping an eye out while I push him? I know you don't exactly have the hands for it."

"It would be my pleasure, Ember. Do lead on." Rain Shine replied before sneaking a kiss onto my bandaged head. Ember resumed her position behind me and started to push me along the smooth grass ahead. Rain Shine remained at my side at all times. "The air feels...so tired now. Relaxed, yet not merely resting. But not angry either..."

"I was hoping everyone else would've chilled out now that the enemy's gone. My guess is no one even wants to pick up a weapon now." Ember replied while she walked behind me. I took some comfort in these words. No anger among our allies meant no desire to harm me. Or so I was hoping.

There was little for me to say for a time. Although I did wince and lean away from anyone we happened to pass. Something in my soul was telling me I was not out of danger yet and Rain Shine started to eye me curiously after we passed several disarmed infantry. But my mind was on something else at the time when I suddenly wondered if Ember could even see around me back there. "Say... Ember? Can you see anything from back there?"

Her voice came from just the right of my head and surprised me from its location. "I can if I look over your shoulders."

"Oh... I was just wondering. I know you're not the tallest dragon around." I retorted while hoping Ember would not be too sensitive about her height being brought up.

"Yeah, I know I'm not. But being this size does have advantages." She retorted simply with no bitterness in her voice. Although she then asked, "Come to think of it though... Where to? We didn't really come out here with a destination in mind."

At that moment, only one thing came to mind first now that I new what time of the day it was. "I'm in the mood for some lunch. Can we stop by one of the mess halls? I'd like to be around people right now... Too quiet in the command center."

"I like the sound of that. The nearest mess hall is...this way." Rain Shine replied before she began to lead the two of us. She knew exactly where everything was as long as the countless blades of grass were watching for her. And when we did arrive, the mess hall was...surprisingly quiet. It almost gave me the impression that...some of our comrades were no longer with us. Even Rain Shine noticed the implications caused by the lower turnout. "The mess halls are usually nosier than this. If I did not know better, it would be the result of...heavy losses."

"You know that's not true, Rain. We just had a good chunk of our infantry knocked out of the war after the last real battle and quite a few of them have been evacuated already. It's just quiet because some of them have been flown home." Ember replied before I could. She probably knew what a sore topic that was and wanted to state facts to keep us centered. She then rolled me over to a table and positioned me at the far end of it where no seats were attached. She then patted me on my shoulders and said, "We'll go grab you something real quick. But first... Any sign of trouble, Rain?"

The two of us watched our kirin companion carefully scan our surroundings. Her eyes narrowed, her senses feeling for something. Although she soon relaxed and said, "I feel no animosity or bitterness around us. He will be safe for now. What would you like, my dear?"

"Um... Surprise me. You know what I like, right?" I replied now that the smell of good cooking was starting to whet my appetite. The dragons of east and west departed to go collect our lunch from the kitchen over yonder. I closed my eyes for a moment and savored the modest clamor in the air. While still somewhat wary of what my comrades intended for me, I at least felt safe for the moment.

That sense of safety faded before long. I could feel shadows being cast over me. And when I opened my eyes, I found myself surrounded. All twelve of Ember's subordinates encircled, the dragons having discarded their armor. And they did not look happy to see me. I could not begin to understand how Rain Shine had overlooked them, but...

I felt little in the way of fear. The last time they made an attempt on my life, it was out of brutal pragmatism. By then, they surely must have hated me. With no way out of this situation, I just bowed my head. They had the right to put me out of my misery.

But they did not strike. One of them even asked, "Hey. Eyes up here."

With some hesitation, I did lift my head to look at those who were around me. And it was then I noticed that...they did not look exactly angry. Or even resentful. More like...just a little on the stern side. One of them, a female, then proceeded to address me. "We saw what happened during the last big battle. The Dragon Lord went insane when you went down. When you went down and didn't get back up, she lost it. And she ripped those things limb from limb."

I already knew this. I saw and heard it all myself. I suppose they would have seen it from above, even in the middle of that chaos. Another dragon, a male, then said, "We'll keep this quick. The Dragon Lord really values you. So keep this in mind..."

A new tension started to fill the air as they all started to lean forward and loomed over me while I hunched down even further in my wheelchair. Were they going to eat me? Whatever the case, they did not attack. But one of them then said, "If you ever hurt her... If you ever stab her in the back... We'll know. And we'll do something about it. Got it?"

Were they...threatening me over the possibility of me betraying Ember? I had no idea what to think, but I just nodded in compliance. That was enough to satisfy the twelve of them since they then stepped back and...walked away without incident. And I was left utterly bewildered. The dragons of Equestria... What a strange lot. I just cannot get a collective reading on them.

Once the twelve dragons had departed from the mess hall, I turned my gaze forward again and saw Ember sprinting across the mess hall while Rain Shine followed at a more leisurely pace with our orders floating around her with the use of levitation magic. Panic in her scarlet eyes, Ember rushed to my side and asked quietly, "What happened? You looked like you were in trouble. Did they get you?"

"No, they didn't hurt me. I think they just..." I replied calmly while looking over at where her subordinates had departed. "I think they just stood up for you... Told me they would probably make me regret it if I ever hurt you."

"They said that?" Ember asked with a look of utter bewilderment on her face. She too looked over at where they had walked, the lot of them just barely beyond the perimeter of the mess hall's tent roofing before taking to the air and flying out of sight. "Those boulderheads just keep surprising me lately..."

"I think they really do respect you now..." I muttered while tempted to keep my voice down. Although I then said, "I guess that's why Rain Shine didn't detect them. They really meant no harm this time."

"That's good. Because I was about ready to start cracking some skulls." Ember snarled smugly. She then took a seat at the table to my left while Rain Shine came over on my right. The Dragon Lord then explained, "It sounds like they've started to have some issues with feeding everyone out here the last couple of days, so they had to simplify things a bit."

Rain Shine then set out our orders. Bowls of a rich vegetable stew...that was rich with paprika. She then said, "I believe they call this goulash. And they are supplying quite a lot of it."

"As long as it's tasty and filling, I don't think anyone will mind." I replied while not minding some hot soup. It even came with some complimentary crackers to sprinkle in. But before we could even really get started, I thought I heard a familiar voice shout. "Wait... Was that...?"

"There he is!" A voice called out before someone swooped right into my arms and very nearly knocked me back in my wheelchair. It was a good thing Ember had the presence of mind to lock the wheels. And in my arms was Rainbow Dash. "Oh man, you had us scared bad when you got back! How long have you been up? Anything hurting?"

"Rainbow, easy there! Ain't he supposed ta be pretty fragile right now?!" Applejack's voice added before I saw some very familiar faces gathering around me. My five dearest companions from Ponyville were the first to reach me and were followed by their own close friends and family. Big Macintosh, Maud Pie, Gilda... And Ocellus and Smolder were in tow. And it was the first time in a while where every last one of them were out of uniform. A wonderful sign that we were finally disarming. Applejack then stepped up beside me while Rainbow Dash was still seated across my lap. "How ya holdin' up, pardner? If yer rollin' on wheels right now... Is it bad?"

"I'm just unsteady when I'm on my feet. Beyond that, I've felt better. But I've also felt worse. More than anything, I'm just tired." I replied while trying to be as frank as possible. I did not want to sound pessimistic or sugarcoat my words. I ran a hand over the back of my bandaged head, remembering that day. My eyes then fell upon Big Macintosh, the stallion who served as the point man for those who evacuated me. "Hey, Mac... Before I forget, thanks for helping get me outta there. Only you could've muscled through the enemy like that."

He looked rather flattered by my words. It must have been a harrowing experience for all involved in that incident. And true to form, his response was brief while he displayed a toothy smile. "Eheheh... Eyup."

I heard the squeaking of Pinkie Pie's harness come up beside me while she displayed one of her usual smiles. But her cheer was still betrayed by the insincerity of her eyes. She looked tired...and worried. "Hey, look at us! We're wheel buddies now!"

That did cause me to crack a smile. Even if concerned and exhausted, Pinkie Pie was still Pinkie Pie. But before I could even get a word out, Maud stepped between the two of us without saying anything. Stoic as stone, she merely locked eyes with me. And for the moment, no one said anything. But I remembered. She was one of the last people I said goodbye to before heading out for the Heaven's Pillar. And like before, she said nothing at first.

This inability to speak... But there was purpose in that nearly unblinking gaze. Pinkie Pie then asked, "Maud...?"

Rainbow Dash had to hop off my lap as Maud Pie began to climb up onto my chair. I was impressed with just how heavy she was. All that muscle in her, muscle with enough strength to resist the magical influence of both the king and queen of Equestria themselves, added some impressive weight to her. It was such a contrast from Rainbow Dash sitting on my lap for a hug. And once Maud was situated, she just...leaned into me. She rested the side of her head against my shoulder and closed her eyes. Pinkie Pie must have know what this meant and looked around at the rest of our companions. "Hey, how about we all get seated? We're hungry as a hippo, right?"

She was just trying to give Maud and I a moment of peace. No one objected and started to find their places down the table. Even Ember and Rain Shine turned their attention away from the two of us for the moment. I put my hand on Maud's side and whispered, "I'm gonna be all right. Really. I'm through the worst of it."

Maud brought her arm to my side to hold me while she inhaled deeply through her nose. I suspect she was simply sampling my natural scent. I heard her whisper, "I really thought you wouldn't make it back... I was sure you wouldn't make it. But I believed anyway. Thanks for proving me wrong."

"I didn't think I would make it either... I'm glad I did." I muttered softly while we just savored each other. I owed her my life. The war had made it difficult for us to find time for each other, but Maud was one of the first to volunteer to be by my side when I was at my most helpless. "Thanks for being there for me when I really needed you."

"I couldn't lose you... No one understands me like you do." She whispered frankly to me. There was a calm stoicism in her voice like there always had been. But I knew there was more just under the surface. She then whispered, "You'll be there this holiday season like we agreed, right?"

"Count on it. Just let me know the exact time and I'll be there." I retorted while trying to remember the one time I did see her childhood home. That rock farm looked so bleak and barren, but would probably look much nicer with a layer of snow all over the place. And I could not forget little Marble Pie. She was very good to me when I passed by. I was looking forward to seeing her again.

"It'll be great to have you there..." She whispered with her eyes closed. I almost thought she was going to nod off for a nap, but she never started breathing in a manner that sounded like she could start snoring. But I was not going to refuse her company. That powerful weight draped over me and that subtle sandy scent on her body that brought to mind dry stony ground was reassuring. I was safe in her arms.

With Maud having me all to herself at that moment, I listened in on my companions at the table. Applejack threw her head back and sighed, "Hoo boy, I ain't never been so ready ta just get back to some good honest applebuckin' back home."

"Uh huh! And I'm so ready to see all the smiles and fun at the next party I set up... There's nothing fun about being out here! At least we're going home soon, right?" Pinkie Pie added while having to get creative to reach the table since she could not be seated in that harness. Everyone, while relieved and relaxed, were also visibly exhausted.

Rarity yawned in fatigue before she added, "I know what you mean, darling. Fussing over a deadline for my clients suddenly doesn't seem so bad compared to what we've gone through lately."

"The grass is always greener, they say... I've never been so ready to just get back to my old routines... And I've never missed Spike so much..." Twilight said wistfully while everyone looked just so...relieved that the war was over. All that was left was to get evacuated, but that could be days away.

It was then that Rainbow Dash took a long look at Rain Shine as she sampled her goulash. I had started eating mine as well and found it to be impressively flavorful. "Hey, uh... Before I forget, what happened to you during that last big battle? You went nuts! Like you caught fire or something and just set fire to the whole meadow or something."

That state... I suppose only Rainbow Dash would have noticed since she was always airborne. Rain Shine, still showing signs of fatigue from how hard and wild she fought during that time, averted her gaze as she replied, "That was...a power all kirin possess. A power we are not proud of. It emerges when our unbridled rage manifests."

"I've heard talk of such a power. The dragons of the east are the last ones anyone wants to pick a fight with." Ember added as she lowered her spoon. She then cracked a smirk at her friend and said, "At this rate, I'll never be a match for you."

"It is not a power I can voluntarily call upon, Ember. One does not enter a rage at will. It is a reactionary ability. We kirin are pacifists at heart, so we are not quick to anger. But...as you saw... We are not immune to rage." The kirin matriarch explained while still turning away. "While I understand that power greatly aided our allies that day, it is a power I feel nothing but shame over. Let us change the subject, please?"

After a few seconds of wondering what other kirin topics to discuss, a glimmer of intrigue filled my heart. "Wait, speaking of kirin... Do they know the war's over?"

This prompted a calm smile from my beautiful companion. "They do. You should have heard them when I informed them. The cheering, the partying... They were simply elated. I even spoke to old friends far to the east. They too know of what has transpired. All over, this world knows of our victory."

"You can communicate to other kirin from this far away just with your magic? I really need to study your people... I almost never heard of the kirin until I met you." Twilight said with her inner scholar coming out. Although she then turned her gaze up at me. Or rather...something above me. "Um... James? I think someone wants to say hello."

I suddenly felt the creeping suspicion that someone was behind me. And there was. Five of them. A familiar flock of five harpies. Their captain gently rested her hand atop my bandaged head and said, "How you holding up?"

"Been better, been worse. At least I'll be making a full recovery." I replied while finding myself smiling at the captain of the Zephyrus above me. But aside from Squabble, the rest of her crew looked very concerned. They knew what happened to me. I even remember Mullet sounding particularly upset. I then asked, "I guess you didn't need to evacuate after all?"

"We came close. It sounded like there was a lot of squabbling up on deck while I was down in the engine room. A lot of close calls. But you pulled through after all, huh?" Boyle replied while he leaned a little closer. He then added, "We...uh...really didn't know if you were gonna make it..."

Lix Spittle then stepped closer and asked, "They still feeding you right? Broken bones need lots of nutrients to heal fast. I can whip something up and it won't be that slop like the first time."

"I'm eating fine. And yeah, I'll be upping my calcium intake when I get home." I replied while glad to see the chef of the Zephyrus knowing her stuff when it comes to nutrition. Although I then glanced at Mullet, who almost looked distressed at the sight of me. I expected him to greet me with a facetious remark like he always does, so I shot first. "Something you need to say, spit roast?"

His beak curled into an uneven smile while he reached out and rubbed his hand over my bandages. "Heh... After all this, I don't think I can call ya dog meat anymore. What sounds better? Prime rib...? Ah, forget it. You're just my matey now, right?"

"Sounds good, man." I retorted while kind of glad I would not have to put up with that term anymore. But while the rest of the crew started to bring over a couple more tables to provide more seating for the steadily growing entourage that was joining me, Celaeno remained where she was and rubbed her hands over my head. Hardly anyone was paying her any attention at the time while they chatted away with each other. Even Maud remained silent with her eyes closed while she rested in my arms. I then looked up at Celaeno and asked, "You all right?"

"I still owe you. And... Well... Keep this between us, but I...really choked up when I heard you finally pulled it off out there." She said while lowering her voice to barely more than a whisper. She then lowered her beak towards my ear and said, "You're a real hero today, James. Just remember... I'll be getting back to you about that tournament back home. I'll have to introduce you to some old friends down there."

"Sounds like a good time... I'll be looking forward to it." I whispered while she still looked a bit emotional. Not quite ready to burst into tears, but just trying to keep a straight face. I noticed how emotionally fragile she appeared to be and asked, "You know I'm gonna be fine, right?"

Celaeno nodded, but did not quite smile. "I know that's what you say, but I can tell you're not all there. You ran yourself ragged out there in body and mind, right? You really just need to take it easy for a while. Stretch your land legs and stay grounded, all right?"

"Will do, ca... Celaeno." I muttered while just barely catching myself. It was compelling to refer to her by her title, but I resisted it. It was only then that Celaeno did smile very noticeably. She knew what I did. Although she then leaned forward to look down at who was sitting in my lap and reminded me of Maud's presence. I then asked my silent guest, "Hey, Maud. Shouldn't you find a seat before one of the servers show up to take our orders?"

She let out a long sigh of disappointment, but nodded anyway while opening her eyes. Although when she started to push herself up, Maud paused to survey her surroundings. It was not a problem climbing onto my lap, but getting back down was an issue without walking across the table or releasing the locks on my wheelchair's wheels and risking it becoming unbalanced. Thankfully, Ember was quick to notice our conundrum and reached out to Maud. "Hang on, I got this."

The Dragon Lord had little trouble reaching out to Maud and lifting her up high. Although I cracked a smirk when I saw her eyes widen while holding the deceptively muscular earth pony mare over her head. "Wow, you're a lot heavier than you look."

"It's all muscle. The Pie family is known for its physical strength. It comes from generations of rock farming." Maud explained without taking any offense to those observations. Once on the ground, she found a seat by Pinkie Pie before they started quietly chatting to each other. Celaeno and her crew then took their seats as well with even Squabble being aware enough to take it easy and stay quiet. The rather modest amount of energy in the air was probably helping in keeping him from becoming excited.

Before one of the servers could approach, one last familiar face came trotting over. One who I had not seen in a while due to circumstances simply not giving me a reason to. Although it was Twilight who noticed his approach first. "Sunburst, hello! You're still here?"

"Yeah, I decided to get out of the lab since there's no point in being in there anymore." A familiar unicorn stallion draped in a starry cape replied as he trotted up to us. He made his way to my side and said, "I had a good feeling about things when I heard you were being sent out. And I knew everything was going to be fine when that Hollow we had tied up in the lab dissolved on its own. Although... Are you all right? You haven't taking any really debilitating injuries, right? The wheelchair isn't a good sign..."

"It's fine, Sunburst. It could've been a lot worse. I'll make a full recovery." I retorted as I recognized that friendly fellow. And it was then that it dawned on me over how we got through the entire war without a single loss of life. Even during the most desperate of battles. "Hey, before I forget... Thank you. I was told we got through the whole thing without losing anyone. And you played a big part in that."

"Yeah... Yeah, I heard too. Oh man, I was worrying we didn't do enough..." Sunburst sighed with his hoof wiggling his little beard about. He then said, "It really feels like all the pieces fell into place in just the right way. Did we get lucky? Or did all our preparations pay off? I guess it helped that we prioritized survival over everything else..."

"Whatever the case, thank you. If we lost anyone, I don't know how I would've coped with myself..." I really had no idea how to convey my gratitude in knowing that my presence in Equestria did not cost anyone their lives. It would have been my fault if that happened and there was no convincing me otherwise.

Sunburst shook his head and displayed a rather concerned smile. "Hey, we should be worrying about you. You're the one who got us to rally in the first place. And you're the one who took the fight right to the enemy stronghold. Come on, feel proud of yourself for once! You're the real hero here!"

The compassion was appreciated, but I could not accept it. No matter what he or anyone else said, I could not bring myself to feel any pride over the outcome of the war. Not when I could not forget the grief it took to get there. But I displayed a false smile to at least satisfy everyone around me for the moment. At least a smile is easy to fake.

But there was one there who saw through that false smile as Sunburst made his way down the tables to join us. My gaze wandered for a moment, my thoughts elsewhere. And I was brought back to reality by the feeling off something upon the back of my hand. A hoof. A cloven hoof. And I found Rain Shine gazing at me with eyes that could see deeper than anyone else around us.

No one noticed. And I was grateful for that. Even little Ocellus several spots down the tables could not truly feel what was going on in my head. My beautiful companion gazed unblinkingly at me with eyes that told me she knew. And for the sake of the levity of those around us, she could not say anything. But she did whisper to me. "We will speak later."

I nodded in silence. Rain Shine has always been someone whose very presence is comforting to me. Perhaps she could soothe the demons in my nerves. But for now, it was time to dine. I resumed feasting upon my lunch, savoring that bowl of hot goulash.

It was then that a server came over and started making the rounds, taking orders from everyone. Everyone even ordered a bottle of cold cider for there liquor quota of the day. Except for Ocellus and Smolder, who were offered sarsaparilla instead. But before the server could start to get away, Gilda called out to him. "Hey, don't' forget the big guy! Get him...say...a full six pack. The guy needs it."

I could see where this was going. And I tensed up as I sensed an imminent confrontation. The server retorted, "I'm sorry, ma'am. The limit is one drink per day. I can still bring just one for..."

Gilda was not having it. She planted her hands upon the table and nearly threw herself across it with the server being on the other side of it. She all but yelled before pointing at me. "Do you even know what that guy went through for us yesterday?! He's the reason you're even still breathing! Get the champ a six pack or I'll do it myself!"

"Yes, ma'am! Right away!" The server timidly retorted without even trying to argue with that wild hen of a griffon. He trotted away to the kitchens while Gilda returned to her seat. And I could not help cracking a grateful smirk while she winked at me with her one good eye.

Just about everyone at the table were marveling at Gilda's show of support. Although it was Rainbow Dash who spoke first. "G, you're so cool."

"Nah, I'm not just cool. I'm part lion, part eagle, and all awesome. And don't you dweebs forget it." Gilda chuckled with her head held high. But she then pointed at me again and said, "But not as awesome as that guy."

That part was too much. I looked away while starting to find myself blushing, if that warmth spreading through my face was of any indication. And just to add onto it, they all started to applaud. Hands and hooves clapping together to fill the air with a rising clamor. And then... With how loud it was getting... Was everyone there joining in?!

I looked around and saw that my suspicions were true. Anyone who was under the roof of the mess hall was joining in. This was too much. I buried my face in my hands and squealed in unstable laughter. And it felt...nice. I really needed that.

Before much longer, our orders were brought out. And I got the six pack of cold drink I was promised. But instead of cider, they were all bottles of beer or ale. Not that I minded. Too much sweet cider would be overwhelming, but several light beers was easier to stomach. They even brought me another bowl of goulash, probably as a means to increase my nutrient intake.

Ember served as my bottle opener with her ironclad grip and impressive strength making it easy for her to twist off the caps for my drinks. And that first mouthful of crisp and light beer... Truly refreshing. I do not remember the last time one swig of light booze has ever tasted so good. Even with the faint bite of alcohol, it felt great. I suppose it only served to highlight my utter exhaustion now that the war was truly over.

I chugged those drinks as quickly as I could. After the first couple, the rest went down even faster. It was not like I was slamming hard liquor, so I did not end up as tipsy as I could have been. Certainly not with some food in my belly. But I did end up finding myself loosening up quite a bit. I felt much happier with most of my bad thoughts staying out of my head for a while. Although I was wondering why Smolder and Ocellus were choosing to not approach me at the time. Perhaps they were waiting for a chance to talk to me entirely alone once I was back in my dorm.

Ember seemed to notice how radically my mood had shifted. She had ordered a bottle of cold hard cider herself, but did not appear to notice the presence of alcohol in her drink. Possibly because she had never tried it before. How does hard beverages affect a dragon anyway when one takes into account how their digestive systems work? If she was even slightly intoxicated, it was hard to tell. I doubt even she could notice while she leaned on one arm to speak to me. "You're looking happier. Come to think of it, it looks like everyone's in a good mood."

"Yep. And we need it." I replied while still feeling rather tired due to the lingering effects of my injuries. Even mildly buzzed, I could not defy my body's limitations at the time. I still had the presence of mind to not try to stand up. If I was unsteady on my feet as is, I would probably fall flat on my face now that I was somewhat tipsy. I then lifted my bowl of goulash to my lips and gulped down the little bit that was left. I sighed in satisfaction before saying, "It's good to be happy after a hard time."

Lunch went by smoothly. We talked. We laughed. All in spite of everything. We were no longer finding a moment of respite on our way towards a destination. We were savoring a victory. But like with every party, it had to end eventually. One by one, my friends left their seats and said their goodbyes. Some were slower to leave than others. And by the end, only Rain Shine and Ember were by my sides. The entire mess hall was becoming much more quiet. I yawned after a filling meal with even the booze in me causing me to feel even more relaxed than usual. "I think we really needed that..."

"Uh huh, definitely. That felt...good. Good food and good company. I wish I got that more often back home." Ember retorted while slumping forward a bit in her seat. She and Rain Shine slowly got back on their feet with Ember undoing the locks on my wheelchair. They began to roll me towards the nearest edge of the mess hall now that we had no reason to stay there. "So then... Where to?"

I considered my options. I had finally reunited and caught up with just about all of my closest friends there in the militia. But...was there someone else? Zecora was likely too preoccupied with her solitary role and was probably starting to pack up in order to be taken home. The only person left I could think of was...

All the relaxed joy in my heart faded when one name passed through my thoughts. And a harrowing memory from mere days ago. "If it's not too much trouble... I want to see Trixie."

I do not believe Ember and Rain Shine had much of an idea of who Trixie even was. I cannot recall at this time if they even got properly introduced to her. But they did not refuse. Ember pushed me along while Rain Shine guided us. There was no hiding from her as long as the countless blades of grass around us were speaking to her.

We came to the infirmary. And we were guided to the ICU field unit. It sounded like Trixie was the only one left in there and had not been evacuated yet due to her condition just being that delicate at first. We were told that she would be on the next flight out of the encampment and was destined for Canterlot to insure her survival and long-term treatment until she came out of her coma. And when we passed the entrance to the ICU tent...

Not a word was spoken. There she was. Only the hum of the heart monitor and the wheezing of a ventilator broke the silence with little natural light making its way into the tent. Trixie was just as heavily bandaged as when I last saw her through the haze of a fresh skull fracture. It felt...so surreal to see her there... Sleeping and breathing instead of just being the corpse I had assumed she had become. I thought for certain I saw her dying... To see her alive, even if unresponsive...

Ember and I turned to Rain Shine. And she noticed our gazes. The kirin chieftain closed her eyes to likely feel Trixie's natural energies. "She is...deeply fractured... But she remains stable. Her will...is quite strong. Admirably so. She wants to live..."

Trixie had always been a defiant one. She never quit. Never gave up on trying to win back her audience after her fall from grace. It was like her to even defy her own injuries. And she did it for me... When I needed help most, she answered that call. Even if she ended up placing herself in harm's way. Ember, who had been there to witness Trixie's intervention when we were on the verge of being overwhelmed by the waves of Hollows that pursued us, asked softly. "She a friend of yours?"

I decided to tell them what I remembered. "She...made some unfortunate decisions before we met that caught up to her. I met her entirely by chance when she stopped by Ponyville. Found her in her wagon in an alley during a delivery to her mobile address. She was startled by me not being anything she had ever seen before and called me in to get some answers. We had a good long talk... I gave her some advice on how to right some wrongs she made and... She...really turned things around that night. An impressive show... We...parted ways as friends... She rebuilt her reputation... Earned back her respect... And now... She didn't deserve this..."

It was almost haunting to see Trixie resting in bed at the other side of the tent while we talked about her. She was not asleep, but she was still dreaming. And I decided that I could not stay away. "Excuse me for a minute."

My shield-sisters watched cautiously as I locked the wheels of my chair. If Trixie was willing to try that hard for my sake, then it was my duty to do the same. Ever so cautiously, I rose from my wheelchair. I could feel that familiar disorientation return, but I fought against it to remain standing and stable. My mild inebriation did not help my balance, but it still enhanced my drive to defy it. I very carefully took step after step forward. Approaching Trixie one move at a time. And I finally felt at ease once I was on my knees beside her bed. The world stopped swaying while my companions watched from the ICU's entrance, the soft grass of the Empty Plains cushioning my knees.

"Hey, Trixie... Not sure if you can hear me, but... It's all over. We won... Everything's gonna be just fine when you...open your eyes..." I muttered to my friend, even if her ears could not hear me. I knew she was not merely asleep. I never dreamed I would ever see someone dear to me in something as dreadful as a coma... She felt near...yet so very far away.

My words failed me for the moment. What could I say if she would not hear me? Still so thoroughly bandaged all over... I did not even want to imagine what she was subjected to before rescue could arrive. And there is no describing the sheer sense of helplessness I felt as I watched her. She was there before me...and I could not do anything to wake her. I rested my hand over her hoof and whispered, "You didn't have to do that... We...would've made it anyway... Right?"

Was it necessary? If she had not been there for us, would someone else have rescued us at the last second before Shining Armor's defenses failed? I tried to not think too hard about it. I remember what she said... What she wrote before...I thought I lost her in the infirmary...

"When I met you in that alley at the start, I never imagined...you would do this for me later..." I muttered with my fingers curling more firmly around my friend's hoof. She had just gotten her life back on track... Made amends with those who once admired her. Restored her reputation in the eyes of the public. All was well... And then this war happened. Would she ever recover from this? I felt an overwhelming sense of dread as I contemplated if this would mark the end of her career. There were so many terrifying unknowns... And we would not have any answers until she finally woke up. For now, her fate was on hold. And I was convinced things would get worse before they got better. "The Great and Powerful Trixie... You really earned that title that day... Great enough to save a friend..."

Ember and Rain Shine were being exceptionally patient with me. They did not speak up once. But I knew I should not keep them waiting for too long. I stayed there a while longer, my body and mind stable so long as I remained on my knees. And I had to accept there was nothing I could do for my friend. Even after she was there for me when I needed her most. With one last sigh and a single tear flowing down each cheek, I reached out and caressed her face and mane. "You've always been a good friend, Trixie... Take your time. I'll...be here when you come home."

My business there concluded, I braced my hands on the side of the bed before beginning to push myself up. The world began to sway again. But this time, someone caught me. An unseen force took hold of me and lifted me until I was on my feet. And I heard something approaching from behind. That presence lowered me back into my wheelchair before Ember rested her hand on my shoulder. "We're here."

"Thank you..." I muttered while trying to not think too hard about anything. I had seen enough. Although I still reached out from my seat and rested my hand on Trixie's wrist one last time. "I'll see you again, Trixie... We'll be here."

We departed with heavy hearts, Ember staying behind me while Rain Shine guided us along. They said nothing, neither of them having any idea what a coma even is. But I think they knew that Trixie would not be waking up so easily. All we could do was let time do the rest.

It was time to head back to safer territory. We soon arrived outside the command center after another uneventful stroll. Her eyes glancing about to check for any prying eyes, Rain Shine placed a kiss upon my brow. "I enjoyed our time together, my love. Enjoy the rest of your day in peace. I will be near if you need me."

I raised my hand to caress the beautiful chieftain's jaw. I was truly coming to terms with my heart's desires for her. "Thank you... Be safe."

Ember peered over my shoulder to look at her friend as well. "I'll keep an eye on him for now. He'll be fine."

"Many thanks, Ember. I shall...leave you to it." Rain Shine said softly while she watched. She did not budge from the spot while Ember pulled me into the command center. It was quiet there aside from the Morse code operator at his post. The personnel who had been stationed there were likely outside and enjoying some dearly needed downtime. And I was just fine with that. Ember then whispered, "Let's get you back in bed. Rest your body, all right?"

I did not object. And Ember had a significantly easier time getting me up the stairs than she did when taking me down. She had no issue pulling me up step by step. And once back in my room, she helped me out of my wheelchair and got me seated on the bed. She exploited the open space where the medical equipment had been sitting by setting my wheelchair over there for the moment. The ever helpful Dragon Lord then stood before me and gazed up into my eyes while leaning forward with her arms crossed. "Feeling better?"

"Yeah... Lunch was great and I needed the company. And...I think I'm gonna be fine when it comes to Trixie... I know she's gonna make it now... I just wish the outcome was better." I muttered with my head bowed. That afternoon did give me some closure. I had no more questions about anything. All that was left was to go home.

"It did look like you two know each other well... I won't ask you any details on your history with that mare. I never really got to know her that well myself." Ember sighed while starting to look around. I was not so unwell that I had to stay in bed now. Some stimulation would be necessary. And her eyes fell upon a familiar tool. She then glanced back at me and asked, "Would you like to use your typewriter?"

"Now that you mention it, I do have a lot of information to cover... Sure. If you could just help me up." I said with a hand reaching out. Ember helped me to my feet and guided me to my seat. With that alcohol in my system, I was feeling rather loose and eager to get to work. My fingers started clicking away on the keyboard while Ember watched patiently from nearby and would take every finished page from me to stack it neatly to the side.

Ember left me alone for the most part. At least for a little while. After the tenth page was completed, I felt her set her hands upon my shoulders from behind. I thought little of it at first. At least until she whispered meaningfully into my ear. "My little warrior poet is in his element right now. You really are much better with the quill than the sword. Or the keys, if I need to be literal here."

I found myself letting out a snicker. And I noticed that Ember was reading each page that I passed to her one after the other. She crossed her arms over my chest while she held me from behind. I paused in my typing and set my hands over her arms where they crossed. I felt her forehead resting against my back when I whispered to her. "Thank you for giving me courage."

She responded in kind. "And thank you for letting me believe in tomorrow. When this is all over... I will come find you. And I'll be with you now and then. I need to. I can't just let you go like that... Not after all we've been through together."

There was no doubt in those words. She would find a way to make it work. Dragon Lord or no Dragon Lord, I believed her. And I wanted to convince myself that the end of the war...would not be the end of us being together. I guided her arms to separate and placed my hands over hers while they rested upon my chest. How I wanted to tell her... There was no better time to tell the wonderful Dragon Lord how deeply in love with her I was... But I know I could not. So I said what little I could. "Please do... I would hold you forever if I could."

"Then hold me, my treasure." Ember whispered as she began to step around me. And she climbed onto my lap with her legs locking themselves around me with her arms doing the same. She was very careful to not force me to fall backwards off of my stool, even if I was more stable when seated than standing. Those beautiful scarlet eyes gazed knowingly at me from just inches away. "Hold me like you'll never let go."

And I did. I put my arms around my beloved while she did the same. She tilted her head down to keep her long jaws out of the way so that our eyes could gaze into each other's. Her delicate fingers on one hand traced tenderly along the rounded contours of my bandaged head. As if trying to soothe the healing cracks under my scalp. Her breath was hot and carried the subtle scent of sulfur as each breath rose to reach my nose. Those eyes seldom blinked while Ember cooed to me. "I will hold you forever. I will cherish you forever. I will protect you forever."

There was no second guessing in those words. Every word carried the weight of a mountain upon it. And I fear I may never truly be able to understand the heart of a dragon. I then said again, "Forever is a long time, Ember..."

"Do you doubt me, my little warrior poet?" She asked almost whimsically with just a whisper. She barely contained a giggle as her fingers slid down the side of my head and rested under my jaw in a manner that sent a shiver down my spine. But in a wonderful way. "Do you doubt the Dragon Lord's decree? Do you doubt...my word? Do you doubt...my touch?"

She was so brave now. Not the slightest shred of fear in those eyes. Such intimacy... I could remember how it once frightened her. She was making herself so vulnerable like this. All caution had been cast to the wind. And I did not want to betray that faith. But I was honest with her and myself while I rested my hand on the base of her tail. "I wouldn't call it doubt... It's just that...it sounds too good to be true."

"Then let me show you..." Ember said with a subtle growl to her whispering voice. Her hand left my jaw and once again rested on the back of my head. She gazed deep into my eyes as she whispered lovingly, "Let me show you how real this is."

She pulled her head back to give herself enough space to lift her jaws. And once her lips were before mine, they reached for me. And I reached for hers. Our lips touched and soon parted. Arms embracing each other desperately, our tongues caressed each other while we gasped and sighed into that wonderful deepening kiss.

For just a moment, I was in total bliss. We both were. Ember cooed and moaned gloriously while our eyes closed. I too let out subtle soft groans of delight in spite of my own mental fatigue. I could feel her. I could taste her. And in that moment, any lingering doubts and sorrows were pushed out of my mind. Despite of all the horrors of the war we had gone through, I had gained a wonderful treasure in the process. The love of the Dragon Lord herself. And this was a treasure I wanted to preserve and cherish.

That enrapturing kiss went on for some time. Yet it still ended far too soon for our liking. Gasping softly for unrestrained breaths, Ember and I once again gazed at each other in longing. We continued to hold each other, her wings joining in on that embrace as they wrapped around me. She then whispered a precious question. One that only barely concealed her true intentions. "If I were to become yours forever, would you be mine too?"

"I would never let anyone take you from me, Ember." I whispered in turn, only barely resisting the urge to confess my feelings to her. She would accept them without question. I knew she would. If I told her, she would become mine on the spot and I would be hers. All I would have to do was say it and we would belong to each other forever. And yet...I knew I had to resist that urge. "I would hold you forever if I could..."

"And I believe you." She whispered with a wonderful smile spreading across her lips. With her wings holding herself to me, Ember freed her arms and brought both hands to the sides of my face. Caressing my cheeks and jaws in a masterful manner one would not expect from a dragoness who was so comparatively young. She was blossoming so fast... Such is the strength of a dragon's love, I suppose. The art of love... It really is in their blood and only needed to be awakened at the right time. "I know...I would be so happy with you... And I want to make you so happy too... I never want to see you cry again. I want to give you the joy you've given me... Oh, come on... Why now?"

What wretched timing... There was a knock at the door. And we both scowled at the door in irritation. Ember very carefully climbed down from me and asked, "Yes?"

The voice on the other side was the last voice I was ever expecting to hear. "Oh, hi! I'm just stopping by to check up on one Mr. James. Is he in right now?"

Gabby. I had all but forgotten about that adorable griffon courier. Ember recognized the voice too, having invited Gabby into her home once, but took longer to recognize it. She looked at me to wordlessly check if I wanted any visitors. I readily nodded, not being willing to turn away a new friend I had hardly spent any time with. Ember then turned to the door and said, "He's in, yes. Just let me get him back into bed."

"In...bed? Did something happen?" I heard Gabby ask in concern while Ember led me to my bedside. She made certain I was lying down before she started to approach the door to unlock it. "He didn't get hurt, did he?"

The lock on the door clicked before Ember stepped away. "Yes, but it's not that bad anymore. Come on in."

It sounded like Gabby whispered something, but not to Ember. I watched the door open and saw that adorable griffon hen step inside. But as soon as she saw me her big round eyes opened wide while she rushed to my side. "Oh no, why's your head bandaged?! You didn't really get hurt out there, did you?!"

I was frank and brief with my response. "Skull fracture, but it could've been a lot worse. I'm through the worst of it now."

My attempts to reassure her immediately did not work as well as I had hoped. Gabby reached out for my head and rubbed her hand over it. "It doesn't sound like it's not that bad. Isn't a skull fracture when your head gets cracked open? Are you sure you're really gonna be fine?!"

"Trust me, I freaked out too when I saw him. But considering just how bad skull fractures can get, he got off really lightly. I swear he's gonna be fine." Ember explained before she glanced to her left. Did she hear something or see something out of the corner of her eye? She then stepped over to the door leading out to the stairs while it was still hanging open and looked like she was staring at someone who was standing just out of sight. "Um... Can I help you?"

"Oh, right... Um... About him..." Gabby retorted while whoever Ember was speaking to remained silent. Now that she had calmed down, Gabby looked at me and said, "Yeah, uh... I think I went a little off course on my way back here. And I....found someone. We talked a bit and had some fresh fish for lunch and... Well, he said he knows you and I thought it'd be best if I brought him along. And he said he was waiting for you to come back..."

That...sounded like... My eyes opened wide in surprise as I said, "Send him in."

Ember motioned her hand to invite our unseen guest in. And sure enough... There he was. A young griffon boy with a familiar shade of blue over much of his body. And he flinched when he saw me. Gabby stepped aside as he came closer. "Oh man... When you said something bad was coming, I didn't think it'd be that bad..."

I felt a massive surge of relief fill my heart. There was no mistaken Gallus for anyone else. More than once, I had forgotten my promise amidst all the mayhem happening over the course of the war. And with my current condition, there was no way I could directly make my way back to him. To see Gallus there before made me so very glad that he would not be left behind. I turned to Gabby while resting my hand on the boy's head. "Gabby... Thank you. I did promise I'd come back for him, but I don't think the circumstances would've allowed that... He really shouldn't be left out there by himself."

"Yeah... I know. He told me everything. The poor kid doesn't wanna go home and I wasn't gonna make him. It sounds like you had a plan though. Gonna take him home to Ponyville? Perfect place for someone to be happy." Gabby explained while starting to smile. She had been there several times lately.

"That's what I intended, yes. Didn't exactly have a plan for when we get there, but we'll figure something out." I replied while Gallus listened quietly. He really did seem to appreciate my touch while I caressed the soft feathers on his head. I then asked him, "Sorry it took so long for this..."

"Hey, it's cool. I was wondering what was taking so long, but now that I saw this huge camp... War is crazy, huh?" Gallus asked while he still winced at the sight of my bandaged head. "That still looks gnarly... You really sure you're fine?"

"I'm not back to normal yet, but I'm getting there. Broken bones take a lot outta you and take weeks to heal. Nothing permanent, thankfully." I explained while keeping my head down. I then looked over at Gabby and asked, "Since you're here... Got anything for me?"

Gabby shook her head and said, "No, not this time. Fluttershy did want to write something, but she decided to wait until you get home now that the war's over. Word's gotten around fast and Ponyville was jumping with parties when before I left. She knows you'll be home soon."

"Sounds good... Just...let her know that no matter what happened out here, I'll be fine." I replied softly as I noticed Ember was just watching from the corner in silence. When I noticed she is just as blue as Gallus, I had an idea. "Hey, Ember. Gallus will need a place to stay before we head home. Can he bunk at your place?"

Her eyes narrowed while scanning the griffon boy beside me. And he started to recoil in unease to see a dragon all but glaring at him. But that scowl turned into a smile as she spoke, "Sure. He seems like a good kid. He can nap on the couch, if that's all right."

"A real couch? Sweet. It beats sleeping on a mat every night. Thanks." Gallus retorted while looking relieved that Ember had good expectations for him.

She started to step away towards the stairs, but then looked back at us. "I'm going to get things ready for you, but... Keep an eye on him while I'm gone. He shouldn't be left alone, all right?"

"Yeah, sure! I got it!" Gallus replied while Gabby also waved goodbye to her. Ember then headed out of sight. The blue bird griffon then looked at me and asked, "Who was that anyway? She's pretty cool."

I found a smirk crossing my lips. He had no idea who he was talking to. "That's Ember. The Dragon Lord."

"Dragon Lo... Wait... You mean... She's the dragon queen?" Gallus asked with his eyes opening wide in realization. Gabby giggled at his surprise, having already met Ember before. "Wow... What other big shots they got out here?"

I tried to recall any other royalty who was assisting in the war. And there really were not that many. "We've got the entire Equestrian royal family out here. Even the queen and king showed up to help out."

"I didn't even know Equestria has a king and queen... Have I been off the grid for that long?" Gallus muttered in contemplation with his eyes wandering. I could not fault him. The very existence of Sunflare and Orbash was far from common knowledge.

Gabby then stepped up to my bedside and rested her hand on mine. She was smiling, but the very sight of me being clearly injured must have been hard for her to take. "I shouldn't stay too long, but... You'll be all right, yeah? You sure you're head's OK there?"

I paused for a moment to try and think of every symptom I had been experiencing. "Aside from just...being more tired than I should be, I'm only having some balance issues while standing. I think the rear lobes of my brain are a bit bruised. That should clear up in a few days at least, I'm sure."

"OK then. You do sound like you're not as busted up as it sounded like you are." Gabby replied as she started to step away, but she never took her eyes off me. She looked deeply concerned and wanted to stay longer, but I suppose her duties came first. "I'll look you up in Ponyville sometime. I'll even bring along some homemade turnip soup. It's awesome, you'll love it!"

"Thanks, Gabby... I'll see you again soon, all right?" I replied with a waving hand. I was glad to have her over with that bubbly personality of hers. It was fortunate she was not present in the encampment when I was first brought to the infirmary. The realities of war is something someone like her should not be exposed to. Precious little thing...

Once Gabby had departed, all I had with me was Gallus. He took a seat beside my bed while he looked me over. "So...uh... How bad was it? I see your sword and shield right there and your helmet, but I don't see the rest of that awesome armor you had last time."

"Things went smoothly at first, but the enemy's resistance only intensified the further east we went. It wasn't until that last battle that things got...dire. I'm honestly shocked we got through the whole thing without losing anyone. We were just that well prepared and coordinated, I guess..." I explained without going into too much detail. He was more than a boy, but not a man yet. And now that this may very well be the last true war Equestria ever wages, I was hoping it would not be necessary to explain the concept to the poor kid. "All you need to know is it's over and we won. The only thing left for us to do is go home."

"Nice. I guess Gabby bumped into me at a good time." Gallus replied while smiling gratefully. He was fortunate we stopped the first approaching army before they could reach his location. Although he then looked me over in silence while I just stared at the ceiling. I wanted to get back to my typewriter to continue chronicling recent events, but I did not want to ask him for assistance. I would have to wait for someone more capable to arrive.

At one point, Gallus bounded up onto my bed like a large cat. I assumed he just wanted to rest on something more comfortable than the floor. Once he had draped himself across me, he said, "Hey... Thanks for being nice to me out the first time. I'm...really not used to adults being nice to me."

It was a dreadful thought to think that even in a borderline paradise like Equestria there are genuinely terrible parents. I was not planning on ever asking the poor kid about his home life before he ran away. I soon brought my hand to his back and started to stroke him between his wings. "You're a good guy yourself, Gallus. I know Ponyville will be kind to you when we get there."

Funnily enough, he flashed me an irritated scowl in response to my act of petting him like a large housecat. "Hey. Did I say you could touch the goods?"

"Um... Sorry?" I retorted before I started to lift my hand away from him. Although he then started to snicker loudly. "What? What'd I do?"

"Heh, I always wanted to say that. Go ahead, that actually feels like nice." He retorted while I suspected he was just trying to act tough. Boys at that age... They always want to be cool. Even if their idea of coolness is mostly superficial. Although when I did start to pet him again, he then said, "But if anyone asks about this, I'll deny it."

"Sure you will, bluebird." I retorted as I found this to be a rather endearing trait of his. Just trying to act tough while hiding a tenderness under the surface. Perhaps Gallus was compelled to put up a front now that there was lots of people around us. Although I did find that... I did not notice at first since the only other griffon I had ever seen at the time was that chef in Canterlot, but...Gallus' coat is somewhat fluffier than the finer coats on Gabby and Gilda. My fingers reached deeper into that pleasant blue coat than they ever did on my two other griffon friends. Even the tuft at the tip of his tail was more voluminous than theirs. And then...he started to purr.

Gallus had his eyes closed the entire time while resting his head upon his crossed arms. And he was purring very noticeably like a happy housecat. Even his coat felt more reminiscent to a domesticated cat. I knew that I would only annoy him if I pointed out his purring, but I still wanted to comment on his coat. "I gotta say... You have the most pleasantly soft coat of any griffon I've ever touched. Very enjoyable to touch."

"Hey, you're not the only one enjoying this. That really hits the spot..." He retorted before going right back to purring in a manner that had me suspecting he was on the verge of passing out for a nap. And then... Steps coming up the stairs. Gallus' eyes popped open at the sound while he suddenly lifted his head. "Someone's coming. Hands off. If anyone asks, you never touched me."

"Sure thing." I retorted while falling to hide a smirk at him trying to keep up a tough guy image. Whoever was coming up did not even bother knocking. They very quickly shoved the door open and... "Oh dear..."

The Alabaster must have just docked. Because Novo was standing before us in the doorway with her eyes locked onto me. And Gallus...was just awestruck as he probably saw a hippogriff for the very first time. "Wow... I had no idea griffons could get that big."

It was a good thing he spoke up when he did since that gave Novo something to focus on for a bit of levity. She strode over to us with her usual regal flair and said, "Maybe that's because I'm no griffon, boy. Never seen a hippogriff before? We have hooves instead of paws, if you need a sign to look for."

"Hippo...griff? Weird name... But...uh...who're you?" Gallus asked while I stayed silent to not interrupt this first encounter.

"Why, I just so happen to be the queen of the hippogriffs, honey. Queen Novo, in the flesh." She replied while adjusting the simple gold crown atop her head. Novo was taking a certain pleasure in Gallus' awestruck stare once he heard that term. His beak dropped open upon realizing a true queen was addressing him. "Ohoho, that's the look they always give me when someone sees me anywhere that's not my home turf."

Gallus glanced over at me and cracked big goofy grin while pointing at Novo with his thumb. "This is one funky queen. I like her."

"Hey, I don't think anyone really dislikes Novo. She's awesome." I retorted while finding it impossible to not be amused by Novo's presence. When she always says she is the best, she really means it. She then stepped forward and loomed over me at my bedside. I then asked softly, "Just got back?"

"Yeah... And it looks like..." Novo said briefly before carefully looking me over. She then rubbed a hand over my head and said, "You look like you're feeling a lot better by now. More awareness... More emotion... I'd say you're through the worst of it, baby. I take it everything went off without a hitch?"

"I think the end results could not have gone down in a more ideal fashion. Everything's gonna be all right... I think." I explained in brief to spare her a long and unpleasant chat in front of our guest.

"Good... Good... If the queen mum let you die on her watch, there would've been hell to pay." Novo spoke with a noticeable snarl in her voice for just a moment. Although she then looked down at Gallus before asking, "Now then, who's the boy?"

I looked at Gallus while he watched an listened. And I felt a certain cheekiness come over me. "Just a little lost stray who's following me home."

Sure enough, Gallus scowled at me with his wings springing open. "Hey, I'm no alley cat!"

This cracked Novo up a bit while I too snickered under my breath. I then looked up at Novo and said, "Really though, he's a good guy. And he's been dealt a bad hand, so we're all taking him home to Ponyville. He'll be happier there."

"A lost little boy with nowhere to go? Sounds like you ended up in good company, boy." Novo retorted while she very sweetly stroked her fingers through the feathers on his head in a manner that caught Gallus by surprise. He looked stunned over just how tender that wonderful queen was being to him. And I knew why. Motherhood is in her nature. "Trust me, if this man loves Ponyville as much as I think I do, then you'll love it there too. I've seen the place lately and it looks like the coziest little town you'll ever see."

"Wow, really? That nice, huh? Sweet. Now I know I got something good to look forward to." Gallus actually looked a little excited. I wonder where he came from... Maybe a more urban environment like Manehatten? I decided not to ask. It was best not to dig up bad memories. Although he then looked back and further at the two of us and asked, "But...uh... If you're a queen, what're doing up here?"

He got us. With Gallus being someone we had only just met, it was best not to divulge any information to him that could be considered too radical. After Novo and I glanced at each other for a second, the wily hippogriff queen came up with a perfect excuse. "You mean aside from paying my dues to a hero? Every queen has her favorite knight. And this sweet sugar bear is mine."

I grimaced so hard at Novo skirting the implications of her words to show her love for me while still keeping her intentions hidden in plain sight. And Gallus just cracked up. He rolled onto his side as he found himself gasping for breath while he laughed. "I didn't know a queen could be this cool!"

"Yeah, she's the best..." I retorted while Novo gave me a wink. And I felt my heart swell for her in spite of my mental and emotional exhaustion. Once Gallus had managed to calm himself, I then asked, "So then... What's the situation?"

"We just finished a supply run to help keep everyone out here fed while they get everyone home one ferry at a time. With that said..." Novo replied before she reached out and rested a hand upon my head. Her tone and gaze softened as she said sweetly, "Tomorrow. Just one more day and we're getting you home."

Gallus and I were equally surprised to hear that we would be evacuated so soon. I asked, "Really? Already?"

"Mmhm. You've done so much for us, honey. The least I can do is get you home in style aboard the Alabaster. I'll be ferrying my men home tomorrow and you're coming with us." Novo explained while she continued to rest her hand atop my bandaged scalp. She then added, "I also talked to Celaeno. She'll be ferrying out as many of your Ponyville friends as well. The Zephyrus isn't designated for ferrying militiamen home, but they'd be happy to make a few exceptions."

"Thank you... I've almost forgotten what life in Ponyville is even like... Can't wait to be home." I muttered in blissful realization. Finally... It was almost time to go home.

Novo reached out and placed a kiss upon my brow while she just looked so happy that this nightmare was finally over. She then cooed softly to me, "I'll leave you be for now, baby. We'll catch up tomorrow. And we'll have the entire flight home for it."

I could only nod in agreement. There was no way Novo was willing to part so soon, but she knew I needed some rest and that the trip home would be wonderful. Although she then turned to Gallus and said, "And you. You keep a eye on this man. You don't know what he's been through. If he needs something, you make sure he gets it."

"Got it! I'm not going anywhere." Gallus retorted while even bringing a hand to his brow to salute the amazing queen before him. With another kiss to my brow, Novo turned and left with a graceful stride in her step. Gallus watched her very intently. No doubt the boy being very taken by her extreme beauty and figure. Once the door closed behind Novo, he turned to me with a bit of a smirk on his beak. "Man, she really is cool. And hot."

"And she knows it." I retorted while we both shared a chuckle. It was a very different experience to be on the same page about Novo with another guy, even if he was probably a decade my junior. I then found the need to ask, "Come to think of it... What were you up to after I last saw you?"

"You mean until Gabby found me? Not much... Just the daily grind when I had nothing to do besides tending to my daily needs. There's not much to do out here except explore and make sure you can find your way back to your own hut." Gallus explained while he crawled up to me and allowed me to continue petting him. He really does have a wonderful soft coat. He then added, "When Gabby showed up, I almost ran. I thought she was there to find me. But she brought up the war and thought I was someone who went AWOL or something. And I remembered you having something to do with it and I asked her about you and she says you two are friends. And she said the war was over. And since that meant it was probably safe, I asked if I could tag along with her to save you the trouble of coming back for me. I didn't need to pack much. Didn't really have anything worth bringing along that I couldn't carry in one satchel. I left my stuff downstairs, what little there was..."

"You were smart to do that... I really don't think I would've been in any condition to go looking for you in this condition... And I would've been mad at myself by the time I remembered..." I muttered in sheer relief. Gallus did not deserve to be left out there. I then whispered, "It's gonna be OK... Ponyville will be good for you."

"Sounds like it..." He sighed before closing his eyes and allowing me to continue stroking him like a cuddly pet. At least until she started to hear more footsteps coming up the stairs again. His eyes opened wide in response to approaching intruders while I noticed that the sound did not match that of hooves. "Who's that?"

"Someone I think you'll get along with quite well." I retorted while looking over at the door. And when it opened, I saw exactly who I thought I would. "Hey there, girls."

Smolder and Ocellus, the latter still shrouded in her dragon disguise. But while they did look ready to rush over to me to make up for lost time, they were immediately distracted by the unfamiliar griffon boy draped across my lap. The three of them stared for a moment before Gallus said, "Uh... Hi?"

Ocellus just looked confused, but Smolder spoke first when she suddenly pointed at our guest. "Hey! You're that bluebird out at the abandoned village next to that shallow river! You know James?"

"Wait, you saw me and you didn't say anything?!" Gallus replied in shock while I too was stunned that Smolder had at least some knowledge of Gallus. When considering that she most likely spent a fair bit of time out on the Empty Plains, it was not surprising that she might have seen that little outpost.

Smolder provided a quick explanation as she said, "Yeah, because you looked kinda grumpy! And I didn't need that when I had my own problems to deal with."

Smolder. Ocellus. And now Gallus. A trio of young teens who all had their own share of unfortunate family backgrounds. I had to say something there. "It sounds like you three have a lot in common, now that I think about it... You don't have the happiest backgrounds."

"Wait, we don't? Oh... I guess you do know them." Gallus retorted before he looked at the two dragonesses before us. "Well... Um... Uh... Yeah. If you saw me out there, it was for a good reason. Or a...not so good reason. I ran away. Didn't want anyone to find me. But this guy found me and he's pretty cool and he's gonna take me home with him to a place called Ponyville. What's your stories?"

"Yeah, good choice. Ponyville's a nice place." Smolder replied with a smile on her lips. I could still remember how anxious she was when I guided her through Ponyville for the first time. Although she then explained, "Anyway, me? My folks kicked me out when I turned twelve. Pretty typical for dragons who aren't being ruled over by the Dragon Lord. And I eventually ended up in Ponyville and decided to settle down there because it's just that nice a place. As for Ocellus here... Um..."

Smolder hastily locked the door before turning to the false dragoness. "OK, you can show him."

Ocellus gulped hard in unease. She had just met Gallus. First impressions were important, especially to someone who was probably slow to trust strangers. With a deep breath, she was briefly shrouded by a flash of green fire to reveal the little Changeling mare's true form while Gallus just stared unblinking at her. Instead of being horrified, he only appeared confused. "Uh... What even are you?"

"A Changeling... And...Changelings don't have a good history in Equestria at all..." She replied while having a hard time looking at our guest. Ocellus then carefully explained, "I don't wanna go back... And I can't go back anymore anyway... James here...saved me. He's keeping me safe. So please... Don't tell anyone what I am. I have to wear that disguise for my own good. At least for now..."

"OK, sure. I won't bring it up. You look like a nice bug... Girl... What is a Changeling anyway? Are you a bug or a mare?" Gallus asked in understandable confusion. I doubt he had ever even seen a Changeling before. I suspected he had no idea they even existed.

When Ocellus hesitated in providing an explanation, I took the opportunity to speak for her. "She's a love bug. And she's the best love bug in the whole world."

Smolder joined in on the tender rhetoric by grabbing Ocellus in a hug while the Changeling's little wings fluttered briefly in surprise. "Yep! She's the nicest little love bug you'll ever see. Do let her creepy look fool you. She's a sweetheart."

Ocellus could not even find any words to say. She just squealed quietly while covering her face with her hooves. Gallus just looked at me with a smirk and said, "They're a real duo, huh?"

"Yeah, I'd say they're even best friends right now. They really brighten up my day." I replied while glad to have a certain normalcy returning to my usual routine. Having Smolder and Ocellus at my side again was comforting. Although I did feel a certain emotional fatigue that was very difficult to push through. I wanted to greet those two little ladies with all the joy I wanted to show, but I could not bring it to the surface.

It was at that point Smolder had the idea to provide some introductions. She pointed to Ocellus and then herself. "Anyway! This is Ocellus. And I'm Smolder."

"Gallus. And don't bother with any chicken jokes, I've heard them all." Gallus replied while Ocellus and Smolder's looks of confusion confirmed they knew nothing about the relevance of that name. Even though I knew that the term 'Gallus' refer to the common chicken, I could not help but picture a wild pheasant upon hearing it. He then looked at me and asked, "And...you girls know him?"

"Yes. And if you'll excuse us..." Smolder retorted rather firmly before she rushed to my side and jumped up onto my bed with one swift flap of her wings. This approach was so direct that Gallus backed away from me to give us some more room. Without a word, Smolder rested beside my on my right with her hand firmly grasping mine. Ocellus was right behind her with the little love bug holding me on my left. This felt...delightfully familiar. They had always been a constant for me after they arrived on the Empty Plains. I could always turn to them if I needed them. And they always cherished me. Smolder brought my hand to her cheek and nuzzled it with a sincere deliverance. "Oh man, I missed this..."

"I missed you both... At least we can finely go home tomorrow." I muttered while tightening my grasp around her little hand. Smolder always adored the intimacy of holding hands with me. It was...comforting to feel those little fingers around mine again.

Ocellus then whispered to me softly, "There's still so much love in you... But it's... It's buried a bit... I think it'll be a while before it finally comes to the surface like it used to."

"You can feel that? Is that normal for Changelings?" Gallus asked while he watched the two little ladies snuggle with me.

Ocellus lifted her head to look at him and said, "Uh huh. We Changelings feed on love. It...um...literally sustains us. And James has...a bottomless amount to share. It real feels like he'll never run out. But it's...buried a little deeper than usual right now."

Gallus tilted his head to one side and said, "Wow, I knew he's a nice guy, but... Hey, you're gonna be all right, yeah? You need anything while we're here?"

"I'm good... Really. It's nice having these two back. They used to bunk with me, but that changed after I got hurt..." I explained while still feeling more emotionally drained than I should have been. There were some scars that would take time to heal. Gallus looked like he could sense a certain...tension in the air and looked away from us while her started to preen himself. I appreciated this and noticed Ocellus looking at me with those big blank blue eyes. I whispered very discreetly to her, "What's up, love bug?"

She whispered sweetly to me, "I've been saving up for you... Please, let me at least give you a little... You feel like you need it."

I knew where this was going and nodded in acceptance. I closed my eyes while she did the same before I felt her lips upon mine. That indescribable sensation of an unseen force flowing into me through my lips filled my senses. It only lasted for a few seconds, but I felt it. And I felt...just a little happier. I felt loved. And I made sure she knew it. "Thank you... That was just the right amount too."

Ocellus nuzzled me without a word. She held me against her sweetly, looking so happy to know that things would be all right. But it was then I felt a kiss upon my other cheek. I turned and saw Smolder smiling at me, but more somberly too. She whispered carefully to prevent Gallus from overhearing. "When we get back home, I'll take care of you. You've done so much for us... I'll do my part for you, mi amor."

Feeling her fingers tighten around mine suddenly reminded me of a dreadful nightmare. Where she was all I had left. And she was torn away from me with our hands tightly clasping each other's. And yet, there she was at my side. Her hand in mine, those beautiful blue reptilian eyes gazing into mine... It was a step back in the right direction. "Thank you... Thank you both... I just...want to put this behind me."

"We both do. Things are gonna get better. And we'll be there with you like always." Smolder cooed while she and Ocellus placed a number of soft little kisses upon my cheeks. And I just lied there and took it. I adored them... They really were little rays of sunshine that made things feel brighter for me.

I eventually returned to my typewriter with a little aid and spent the entire day chronicling as much as I could while I still had time. Going down the stairs was out of the question for the moment, so dinner had to be brought up to me. And during that time, Gallus took the time to read through some of my journal entries to catch up on exactly what happened after he and I first parted ways. Although I had the foresight to vet them before allowing them to read them. The three of them did eventually reveal their ages to each other with Gallus being right between Smolder and Ocellus at fifteen years of age. Plenty of stuff is in those journals that is not at all suitable for minors...

Gallus was awestruck to see the Equestrian royal family for the first time since it was necessary for them to know that a new noncombatant had been brought into the camp. While Nightmare Moon is still bedridden for her own good, the other four of them came upstairs to speak to us all. Gallus was visibly intimidated when he met Sunflare. A perfectly natural response, all things considered. He has been welcomed to stay since he will be departing with me tomorrow as planned.

Smolder, Ocellus, and Gallus are getting along quite well now that night has fallen. They talk a lot and have plenty of stories to share with each other. It is good that they can relate to each other in the same age group like that. And... Well... I had to laugh when Ocellus offered to reassemble her pillow fort for Gallus to use for a bed. He thought it was silly at first, but quickly grew to like it. Ocellus would not need to use it since she and Smolder would be at my sides in bed that night. Ember did check in later to fetch Gallus like we had originally planned, but he was so comfortable in that pillow fort while being around a few new friends in his age group that she quickly relented and left him to his new pad. She also appeared to have a lot of faith in Smolder and Ocellus to look after me and left quickly to leave us alone.

Even by the time night came, I still had not quite finished documenting everything that has happened. I will have to finish up another time. But now... Now, it is almost time to go home. I feel relieved. Knowing that tomorrow is the day. We can finally go home.

Although now that I need to take a hot shower before bed, am I forgetting something? I feel like there is something I should be expecting... Whatever the case, it is late and Ocellus is waiting by the bathroom door to help me in. I just want to sit down in there and take a long hot soak... Just a little longer now. And then we can all finally go home.

Just a little longer, Fluttershy. I will be there with you and the girls very soon.