The week passed thankfully quite uneventfully, the ponies had many tearful reunions, as well as a few sad realizations. Those who had yet to locate their missing neighbors had begun to give up hope, but I stopped that from happening. Though slim, there was a chance they were still out there, and so long as we didn't have a body, hope remained.

The census came up with a whopping three hundred and eighty-nine ponies, plus about thirty diamond dogs and just shy of ten dragons. The dogs who had come over were mostly the ones I had personally tracked down and invited due to their religious nature. Free to worship as they please over here, they were quickly proving quite devout, as well as amazingly useful.

With their help, the tunnels and caves that housed the majority of our population were now quite homey. More chimneys had been built with the help of the dogs and my own increased control over my rocky domain. By the time we had created enough vents, I was fairly certain I could create entire structures out of stone with enough time and concentration.

That still didn't explain how or why that stone moved when I was at the diamond dog city, but that was a thought for another time.

Who was I to question providence? And yes, I do understand how silly that sounds considering it's me saying it.

Either way, the caves were becoming downright homey, and I had begun testing the possibility of creating stone houses on the surface. They could indeed be made but didn't quite stand upright yet, and without glass, or timber we couldn't make doors or windows. So it was mostly just practice, as it was decided we would wait until we could make those things before we really tried to create better homes.

In the meantime, most ponies were just happy to have a private space to call their own. I even went through and customized most dwellings to how they wanted, adding lofts, extra rooms, or higher ceilings. Again, I wanted to do more, but this was a close second and most residents appreciated the extra effort I put in to really make it feel like the space was theirs.

The food situation had improved, as Lakeside did indeed have a surplus, though that was partially due to the starvation rations most slaves had been on. Now that they were free and allowed to eat three square meals a day they were happy, but also burning through our backlog. To help with that I had begun searching for more food options and had found several relatively quickly.

Ponies were opposed to the consumption of meat, though that didn't extend to fish curiously enough. So with the fish population booming all of a sudden, it was decided that a few boats would be sent out to catch fish. So far so good, though I had received reports that there had been a sighting of the large fish I had brushed up against before. Nothing negative so far, but it had spooked a couple of fisherponies into dropping their catch which was more amusing than truly detrimental.

The other option was picking the plains clear of rocks and beginning to work them, planting what little seed the ponies had managed to save. That would take time though, so it was put on the back burner and that project was currently being used as punishment detail for disobedient children. In time the plains outside would be able to grow plentiful crops, I could sense it, but again it was something for the future.

The final option was to open the lower caves, as I could sense there was something growing down there near what I felt was a large amount of water. It was a promising combination and my mind conjured images of enormous mushrooms like the kind I vaguely recalled from fiction. That was put aside as well, as I wanted to explore them myself, just in case danger lurked within the depths.

Another idea put on the backburner for now, to join the dozen others already sitting there, ignored or forgotten.

And that was about it. I took a bit of time off to wander about the forest hunting wayward dragons though in reality I was just taking in nature. I made a paltry attempt at diplomacy by announcing loudly that I would forgive any of them that turned themselves in. Very few had taken me up on my offer yet, but I had a feeling that would change once they started running out of food.

I was content to bide my time, leaving at least one war form hidden near Lakeside at all times. I wanted to create entire squads of myself who could patrol the area but the strain was a bit too much at the moment. That would change once I had more ponies under my banner but for now, I was content with my three watchers.

This brings us all the way to the day of the first feast, where I was busy making last-minute adjustments while also checking on everyone. I also took enough time out of my day to finally give the preacher boy the list of commands I had promised him. It hadn't been overly long but it took a while as I wanted my wording to be exact, and precise.

No one would ever be able to use my words as justification for cruelty without basically rewriting the entire thing.

“Is that everything?” he asked, tapping his tiny quill against the inkwell and waiting patiently.

I scratched my chin and considered things while also inspecting the child sitting across from me. I hadn't really noticed it before but the kid was much plainer looking than most of the other ponies who had brighter colorations than him. Brown fur, a two-toned slightly orangish brown mane the same color as his eyes blurred together to create an earth pony that kinda looked like mud from a distance.

“No, that's about it,” I concluded.

Pure Heart placed the quill back in the well before looking down at his notes.

“So, to recap you want those who worship you to treat one another and the land with respect. You also want a special emphasis placed upon treating the land with care, so as to ensure future generations can also live there,” he began, pausing to flip a page. “You also don't mind different kinds of relationships or gender expressions so long as they are adults. In addition, you encourage others to seek a partner and to explore themselves.”

I nodded and waited as he flicked through his papers.

“You also abhor the hoarding of wealth and power. I think you went so far as to say to fear those who desire those things,” he continued, pausing to look up to me for confirmation.

“Those who hoard are the cruelest of all, for they see the suffering of others, and refuse to alleviate it,” I replied. “A percent of your personal wealth should be given back to the community, and this percent should be proportional to what they make.”

“That makes sense,” he muttered. “But what about this whole… what did you call it again? Reincarnation?”

“Yes, that is the ultimate fate when you die,” I stated, holding back the tidbit that I knew that this was true from personal experience.

“Odd. The old church said that you went to either oblivion or heaven,” Pure Heart remarked.

“That is a vile outlook on the afterlife,” I retorted in disgust. “To believe that there was anyone so evil that they deserved to not exist… it's cruel.”

“There may be some who disagree with this. They like to imagine that oblivion is a fitting punishment for evildoers,” Pure Heart pointed out, only to stop and clasp his hooves over his mouth. “Not that I am doubting you, Mother Gaea.”

I sighed. “I thought we talked about this already.”

“Oh right, you talked a lot about how questioning you is important and to never follow anyone blindly,” he replied somewhat guiltily.

“Exactly,” I exclaimed.

“Okay, I got all that plus the rest of the stuff we talked about over the week. Are you sure that's everything?” He pressed.

“I told you I am not doing any metaphors, or stories that are actually just lessons in disguise, nor will I add any room for interpretation,” I stated firmly. “I will not have my words twisted and turned into weapons.”

“I doubt that would happen, but I understand your fear,” he half agreed.

“Good,” I replied, standing up from the tiny stone desk. “Now then, I am off to check on the others.”

I paused and turned back around. “Oh, and how is your sister, Glad Heart?”

“She is doing very well thanks to you,” Pure Heart exclaimed. “We feared her leg would need to be amputated after all.”

“No thanks needed, save it for Sunday,” I repeated.

“I remember. And thank you, Mother, for everything,” Pure Heart declared, bowing his little head.

I smiled and departed, my smaller, ‘gossip’ form as I called it, easily exiting without bumping its head on the door. A mental check of the time revealed that I still had plenty of the stuff, so I diverted myself to where the Scarlet Sisterhood had set up shop. Here the roof was higher, and there were a number of rooms already built to accommodate the unfortunate number of sisters.

Nearly forty had chosen to join them, with nearly a dozen of them being male. The scale of the dragons’ abuse was as enraging as it was widespread. Thankfully there were some who had joined whose stay I knew was going to be temporary, likely departing after their rapist’s child was born. I did not bemoan them this, I was just proud that they had chosen to make the best of the shit sandwich life had given them.

Already I could sense that the sisterhood would end up as part orphanage, as some were not keen on raising the child thrust upon them. I didn't mind this at all but was a bit surprised that they were not keen on aborting the child even after I told them such a choice was not an evil one. Ponies simply didn't see things that way, which was nice to witness, even if it did seem a bit on the naive side of things.

That's one bullet dodged. I thought to myself.

Immediately upon entering the convent, I was approached by a pair of ponies I had slowly gotten to know over the past week. First was Crimson Heart, the former slave now garbed in more professionally sewn robes that hid the majority of her form. Royal Ribbon was accompanying her, the stubborn mare smiling while her companion bowed low.

“To what do we owe the pleasure, Mother Gaea?” Crimson Heart asked.

“Just checking in. How has the infusion treated you?” I asked, looking at Royal Ribbon.

“Very well,” she replied with a smile. “It is nice to know that I will actually be there to raise them and watch them grow up.”

“I told you it was a simple procedure. Yet you doubted our Mother,” Crimson Heart shot.

Royal Ribbon sighed. “Can you really blame me? It seemed too good to be true.”

“Sometimes people really are looking out for you, and have your best interests at heart,” I remarked with a grin.

“And I thank you for that. You have no idea how refreshing it is to find out there is no catch,” Royal Ribbon admitted.

“That means everyone who needs it has received it right?” I pressed.

Crimson Heart nodded. “It is done, even though I told you it did not need to be for at least another few months.”

“Though draining, it was worth it to see you all back to your normal energy levels,” I shot back.

“Still,” Crimson Heart murmured.

“I’m fine dear. Though your concern is appreciated,” I exclaimed, placing my hand on her shoulder and giving her a gentle squeeze. “Oh and how are Pinprick and what name did she settle on, Gorehorn?”

Gorehorn was the mare who had stabbed that dragon in the eyeball with her horn not too long ago. Clearly traumatized by her captivity, she was also struggling with anger, as well as other issues, and had thus opted to stay with the sisters. Pinprick was a different case, the stallion having been clearly traumatized but unwilling to acknowledge it at all. I convinced him to stay with the sisters as they were the most pious with the hopes that he would be able to get help there.

“Gorehorn. What an awful name,” Royal Ribbon muttered.

“We must respect a pony’s chosen name,” Crimson Heart began, only for her confidence to flicker. “Even if it is rather brutish.”

“Either way she's doing good, last I saw,” Royal Ribbon remarked.

Crimson Heart nodded. “She has taken to becoming the convent’s defender, and though it's largely unneeded, it gives her purpose so we have not opposed it.”

“Good, a sense of accomplishment is never a bad thing,” I added.

“As for Pinprick… well,” Crimson Heart frowned. “He is as difficult as ever. I don't think we will be able to break through to him for some time. At least he is good with the administration side of things and is always eager to help the other sisters.”

“Could be better, could be worse,” I muttered.

I silently wished psychology had advanced more in ponyland, because at the moment it was dog shit. The old, ‘Suck it up and move on!’ saying was apparently the best advice they had, and any attempt to help someone further was seen as unnecessary. It was something I was aiming to fix, but that would take time, though the sisters were very open to my new way of thinking.

“I will leave you to it then oh and make sure that everyone knows they are invited to the feast. A bit of fresh air would do you all some good,” I exclaimed.

“We will be there, Mother,” Crimson Heart replied, bowing once more.

“I will be up in a minute. I just wanted to speak to Crimson a little more,” Royal Ribbon offered.

“I will meet you up there,” I declared.

Bowing out of the conversation and the room, I made my way towards the church which at the moment was being used as a simple meeting area. A bit of expansion had been done to the place, turning it into a community center as well as a place of worship. With plenty of common areas for ponies to meet and mingle, it was turning out to be a popular place to hang out when you were done with your tasks.

On the way there I saw Bright Eyes standing outside, looking in, as if yearning to enter but for some reason was unable to.

“You know you don't have to be a follower to enter, right?” I announced.

The poor thing nearly jumped out of their skin.

“Don't scare me like that!” they shouted. “You making a body capable of stealth was the worst idea since the bronze bull.”

I chuckled at their little outburst, allowing them time to slow their heart rate and get their breathing back to normal.

“Better?” I asked.

“Yeah,” they muttered.

“So… heading in then?” I pressed.

“I’m… not sure,” Bright Eyes muttered. “I don't think I’ll be welcome.”

“Has anyone here derided you for how you choose to express yourself?” I asked.

“No,” they muttered.

“So, your heading in then, right?” I inquired.

“But the old church said that such expression was wrong and that I had to act and dress in a way that fit my sex,” Bright Eyes murmured somewhat bitterly.

“Is the old church here? Are their inquisitors among us even now, operating in secret?” I asked in mock confusion, looking this way and that as if one of them may leap out at a moment’s notice.

“Hey, sarcasm and biting remarks are my thing,” Bright Eyes shot back, only for their smile to fade a moment later. “And no, they aren't here. I guess my fear isn't exactly logical, huh?”

“No fear is,” I stated. “What will come will come, and no amount of worry will stop it.”

“Pffft, fine, I’ll go inside. But only to make you stop making philosophical remarks at me,” Bright Eyes exclaimed, a small smile crossing their face.

“Attathem,” I declared, patting Bright Eyes on the back and making them groan.

Smiling, I watched as they made their way inside and were quickly invited into a game of cards with a few other familiar faces. Stitch Work was there, alongside Tender Claws, Hammer Swing, and Berry Blend, the group playing what looked to be rummy. It was a small gathering, but one that made me smile as I was happy to see that the Lakeside ponies were integrating well.

I let my gaze wander as I looked out over the room, noting that my chess sets were being well appreciated. The game itself wasn't previously known to ponies, though checkers was, which made sense considering the history of both games. Either way ponies of all ages were giving it a try using the sets I had constructed while I was practicing my stone crafting powers. Some pieces weren't quite as nice as others, but no one really cared as they were just happy to have something to play.

The murmur of conversation was a pleasant sound, and I could tell that the mood was generally positive.

The children were playing with tiny stone blocks that had also served as practice before I worked up to chess pieces. They were simple shapes, and fairly light as they were hollow, but they were well-loved all the same. I could even see what looked like the start of a tiny stone castle near one corner, a group of foals eagerly constructing the outer bailey.

Amongst their number was Tippy Taps, the child Short Sale had sacrificed his legs to save. There was also Nigma there with them as well, the child as curious as ever. They were being watched by Fleet Hoof and Danger Diamond, the pair chatting in a low, hushed tone. Though I couldn't hear what they were saying, it seemed personal, as they occasionally blushed or batted their eyelashes at one another.

It was nice to see them chatting, and integrating themselves with the community. It was even nicer to see that they were expressing interest in someone, and I made a note to tease them, asap. That would have to wait though, as I had noticed a pony I hadn't seen in a while.

Though I couldn't recall her name at the moment, I recognized her as one of the injured ponies I had pulled from the cave. She had received a nasty wound across her belly and had been laid up in bed for some time even after I lent her what aid I could. Thankfully she was able to pull through and make a full recovery. More important still was the fact that several other ponies had gathered around her and were all chatting while playing a game.

One of these ponies was Sun Dancer, a stallion who had been presumed dead and who was actually very much alive. The stallion in question was even leaning against another male, the pair occasionally nuzzling one another in an adorable display. I smiled and allowed my vision to drift, taking in the rest of the crowd before I continued my ascent.

I didn't make it far before I happened upon Short Sale sitting outside his home, a pipe in his mouth. He was joined by a grinning Deep Delve, the mare sitting beside him with her own slightly larger pipe.

“Hey there neighbors. How are you two doing?” I greeted.

“Pretty good, pretty good,” Short Sale muttered.

“Bout the same. Right thrilled about the feast let me tell ya. Feels like we're really getting somewhere ya know?” Deep Delve remarked before puffing on her pipe.

“Speaking of which,” I began, gesturing to Short Sale. “How are your new legs coming along?”

“We're about halfway there,” he replied, wiggling his crystal stumps in emphasis.

Sure enough, they were nearly halfway regrown at this point. It wouldn't be long I figured before he had his limbs back completely.

“And you feel everything?” I asked, even though I knew the answer.

“Yup. Other than being tougher, they act like normal,” he answered. “Kinda makes me wish that bear had gotten the back ones while he was at it. Maybe then I could say goodbye to all my aches and pains.”

“Hey, are you saying you're getting rid of me?” Deep Delve shot.

Short Sale chuckled. “Maybe I am. Are you going to keep smoking all the pipeweed and not tell me?”

“Maybe,” Deep Delve replied with a smirk.

“Like an old married couple already. When are you going to let me hold a ceremony for you two?” I pressed.

“We're not that old ya know. We don't have to rush,” Short Sale exclaimed.

“Yeah I’m kind of enjoying this whole datin thing,” Deep Delve admitted.

“Fair enough but that time will come. I have a feeling,” I replied.

“Maybe,” Short Sale added simply.

“Whelp, that's my signal to keep on moseying my way topside. I hope to see you two at the feast,” I exclaimed, giving the pair a wave.

Which they returned.

“We wouldn't miss it for the world, eh dear?” Deep Delve asked, elbowing Short Sale in the side.

“No ma’am,” he replied with a grin.

“Good to hear,” I stated before continuing my journey.

I made it around the corner and into an alcove. Once out of the way, I pulled my consciousness from that body and focused instead on the ponylike diplomacy form I had created a week earlier. It was standing just outside the cave system my ponies called home, serving as a watcher while the majority of my focus was on my other body.

Once I was focusing on it completely, I walked over to the side, ignoring the conversation going on nearby. Bulwark had arrived, alongside a few redeemed dragons and a good number of the Lakeside citizens who were not already here. While they chatted with Quick Quill, Earth Break, Crystal Cadance, and a few others, I pressed on to where I had planted Leaflock’s seed.

It wasn't far from my main gigantic form, the small patch of dirt hidden away from the majority of onlookers. The number of spots that actually had enough earth to support a tree was few but thankfully the one I located was exceptional. It had a deep deposit of dirt and wasn't far from a natural spring. All while being under the direct gaze and thus protection, of my main body.

I had expected to be alone but wasn't terribly surprised to find that Hypereas was there as well. The tall, slightly lanky, and top-heavy diamond dog was leaning close to the ground, his nose mere millimeters from the dirt. His floppy ears were laying on the dirt on either side of his head while his large paws were spread wide, bracing the rest of his body.

Which was much less muscular than I had first anticipated given how bulky and imposing his armor had been. Now that he wore only a long, sleeveless brown cloak that went all the way down to his ankles I could see him much more clearly. Including the gambeson, a type of padded jacket typically worn beneath plate armor that he still kept on. Despite his new job as a gardener, and advisor he was still unwilling to shed his armor completely.

Out in the afternoon sun with his head uncovered I could tell that his mostly grey fur had bits of purple in it that was only visible in a certain light. His dull orange eyes flicked this way and that, the dog seeking out something that only he could perceive. Upon hearing my approach, and apparently not finding what he was looking for, Hypereas rose back up, using his knees as support.

“Ahh honored Mother, it is good to see you,” he began, only to pause. “Or should I be bowing? I’m still new to this whole thing.”

“Like I keep telling you Hypereas, when it's just us you don't have to use any honorifics. Or to put it another way, treat me like you would your own mother,” I replied.

The dog erupted with laughter. “Oh, I don't know if you want that. My mother was a tough old coot who loved me dearly but did a terrible job showing it,” he exclaimed.

“Could have been worse I suppose,” I remarked.

“No kidding. Our entire population is descended from the lone army that survived and returned in one piece and I don't know if you know this but soldiers don't always make the best parental figures,” he exclaimed.

“True, though I’m a bit surprised you allowed females in combat roles. Many other races seem to relegate that position to males alone,” I thought aloud.

“Then they are fools,” spat the dog. “Female diamond dogs are every bit as strong and smart as males. The only thing they don't have is the obvious, as well as a quite as prominent chin.”

“Noted,” I muttered. “How is our seedling doing?”

“Quite well I must say,” Hyepereas began, gesturing down to the tiny plant that at the moment was only two inches tall and had but a single leaf. “She ain't much to look at right now, but it's been growing pretty quick.”

“Between the fertilizer, the water from the spring, and the high levels of ambient mana I’m surprised it's not growing faster,” I replied.

“You wouldn't want that,” Hypereas quickly retorted. “The bark might split, or it might end up top-heavy and unable to support its own weight.”

“I wasn't being- ah never mind,” I muttered. “So, how are the other dogs settling in?”

“Good. The caves are a far cry from Batheor, but it's nice to create something for ourselves rather than moving into something someone else made,” Hypearas admitted.

“I’ve never actually heard a diamond dog refer to the city in that way. I presume Batheor is its name?” I inquired.

Hypereas chuckled. “That makes sense, as it literally translates to ‘the city’ so most don't even bother using its name.”

“Was it always called that?” I pressed.

“It was once Stjora Helgot Avor Kjungr, or the great hall of kings, but that name was shed after we returned to find the city empty as the name no longer felt fitting,” Hypearas explained.

“That makes sense. Say, why do most dogs seem to speak common so well?” I asked.

“We call it the trade language, and it was important for soldiers to know, thus we all know it,” Hypearas answered. “It helps if the entire army understands the enemy and can tell when they try to surrender.”

“Hmm, understandable,” I murmured.

I was about to ask another question when I noticed that our little sprout had begun to glow a strange ethereal white color. Like fog, it spread out until it was roughly the size and shape of a young human child. Only its head was off, as it was slightly too large while also sporting a flower-filled crown upon its brow. There were no other fine details or features to spot, however, as it was still a sort of fog creature that shifted slightly with the breeze.

“Leaflock?” I whispered.

The fog child took what looked like a breath and placed its hands on its chest before speaking.

“Is this, is this working,” she whispered, her voice warbling considerably at first but quickly becoming stable. “Yes, I think I’m close.”

“Not bad,” I exclaimed. “Though you're a little on the short side.”

Leaflock’s shoulders slumped and I got the distinct impression that she would be frowning if she was capable of doing so.

“I am still weakened from my enslavement and this extension is still small,” she retorted.

“I know. I’m just teasing you,” I replied.

“Hmm,” she murmured.

“You two will be off to the feast then, right?” Hypereas asked.

“I suppose we should, though before we do I need to make one quick change. Leaflock, please remain here a moment,” I exclaimed.

Before she had a chance to respond, I was off, placing my diplomatic body beside the opening to the cave system. I then inhabited my smaller form, and ran back to Leaflock, ignoring Bulwark as well as the others for just a bit longer. Upon reaching the tree spirit, I smiled, and extended my arms, revealing that I was now in a form nearly the same height as her. That being said it was far more detailed than the foggy shapeless mass that she was, as this body was just a scaled-down version of my diplomacy form.

“What do you think, better?” I asked.

“I suppose that you being the same size as me would help with our date,” she replied.

“Date?” Hypereas asked, watching me with wide eyes.

“Indeed,” I answered simply, extending an elbow from my side. “Now my lady, shall we?”

Rather than placing her hand on my arm, Leaflock just stood there, staring at me. “Shall we what?” she deadpanned.

I mimicked a sigh and pointed to my arm. “Just put your hand there and walk with me back down to the feast, if you don't mind,” I offered.

She nodded and did as was asked. Her touch was strange, cool yet pleasant like a summer rain that came at midday. It was nice and had just enough resistance to it that I could feel like she was flesh and blood.

Together we made our way down the slightly winding and hastily made path that lead to the first plate. We were not immediately noticed by those standing around waiting for the feast to begin though that changed when we got close. One of the ponies pointed over to me and said my name before breaking out into a fit of giggles. Others joined soon after, and though most found our tiny forms amusing a good number said nothing and simply smiled.

“Mother is that you?” Bulwark asked, the dragon wearing a cheeky smile. “I’m going to have to start calling you little sister.”

“Watch out there sonny boy. I’m still dangerous you know,” I retorted, cocking a fist and aiming it at his junk.

The dragon chuckled, having finally realized when I was joking and when I was serious. Instead of offering another retort, he knelt down and opened his arms. I accepted the hug and gave him a good firm squeeze.

“It's good to see you Bulwark,” I exclaimed, patting him on the shoulder.

“It is nice to see you as well. Even though we had just seen one another this morning,” Leaflock offered.

“Leaflock I presume,” Bulwark declared. “I was wondering if all your constant fretting was going to be for not.”

“I did not fret,” Leaflock retorted.

“I don't know. You asked me a whole lot of questions about dates and mother here and-”

“Silence,” Leaflock shouted, her voice becoming slightly shrill. “I did not do those things. Do not believe him.”

“I believe you dear,” I replied, before leaning toward Bulwark and flashing him a wink.

“Why did you do that thing with your eye?” Leaflock asked.

“No reason,” I replied. “Apologies, I did not mean to disrupt the conversation.”

“It's no trouble at all,” Earthbreak picked up. “We were just discussing the possible name choices floating around for here as well as Lakeside.”

“Oh? And what's the consensus?” I inquired, trotting over to the table and taking a seat at one of the very few chairs present.

“I was not aware that you were going to rename Lakeside. It seems so… fitting,” Leaflock added, the diminutive fog creature sitting next to me, the spirit barely able to see over the lip of the table.

“Nothing as of yet, but plenty of ideas,” Earthbreak replied.

“I think The Village of Lone Tree is currently winning in the polls, though there was also Haven, Stone Burrow in honor of our old city and oddly enough, Dragon’s End,” Crystal Cadance offered.

“Though I believe it ultimately comes down to Gaea’s decision,” Quick Quill was quick to add.

“I think Lone Tree is beautiful,” I declared, turning to Leaflock. “Don't you think?”

“I do not understand,” stated the tree spirit. “There is more than one tree there.”

“I think we mean-” Earthbreak began, only to be silenced when I raised a finger.

“Let her figure it out,” I interrupted.

“I do not…” Leaflock paused and shrunk slightly. “I understand now and I do not think I deserve such an honor.”

“I think it's quite fitting, and rather amusing considering it's in the middle of the forest,” I added.

“Yeah it does have a nice ring to it, the village of Lone Tree,” Earthbreak declared aloud.

“Leaflock is Lakeside’s guardian spirit and an ally of Gaea so it makes sense to honor her in such a way,” Crystal Cadance remarked.

“What about the names for this place?” Leaflock asked rather forcefully, eager to get the attention away from herself.

“Yeah, what did you all decide on anyway? Last I checked you were thinking about calling it Standing Stone, or something to that effect in order to honor your old city,” I thought aloud.

“Actually we were going in a slightly different direction,” Crystal Cadance cautiously declared.

“Yeah I think the consensus was landing on Gaea’s Cradle, or Gaea’s Rest,” Earthbreak declared.

“Though if you think that is too grandiose there were plenty of other suggestions,” Quick Quill was once again quick to offer.

“I kinda like it, not sure why,” I half muttered. “It feels familiar for some reason.”

“Perhaps it was a prominent city in ancient times,” Earthbreak offered.

“There was something like that,” Leaflock replied, jumping in to assist me. “Though I believe it was a mountain simply called Gaea’s Reach.”

“Oh, that's what we should name this mountain!” Earthbreak announced suddenly.

“Now that might be a bit much. You wouldn't want my ego to run away with me now would you?” I asked, genuinely a bit surprised by the move.

“Do not worry. Your ego is not capable of running off with anything,” Leaflock retorted.

“It is very fitting,” Crystal Cadance pressed, the mare wearing a small, teasing smile.

“Oh fine. The mountain is called Gaea’s Reach,” I muttered in defeat.

“Hurray,” Leaflock declared in her regular monotone voice.

“Help me out here Bulwark,” I whispered, leaning toward him.

“Oh no I’m not getting involved in this at all,” retorted the dragon with his hands raised defensively.

“Ungrateful brat,” I muttered just loud enough to hear.

When he looked at me I shot him a wink, causing a small smile to grow on his face.

“So,” I announced suddenly, looking about the area. “How are the preparations going? I see plenty of tables, chairs for our guests, and pillows for ponies but very little drink or food.”

“Don't worry. I broke into my father’s- I mean the old cellar under the mansion and found the good stuff,” Bulwark declared.

“Also, they should be just about done unloading the hoarded supplies as well as the latest catch,” Quick Quill added, gesturing to the side of the plate where several crates were being unloaded.

“Excellent, and if I’m not mistaken I sense the approach of many padded feet,” I declared.

I turned towards where the first plate sloped down towards the second, the others present at my table following my lead. In reality, I had sensed them minutes earlier and had seen the sentries warning of their approach but I wanted to be dramatic. Sure enough, it worked as we witnessed what seemed to be the entire population of Batheor ascending the stone steps.

Only a select minority wore armor, as most came dressed in similar garb to what Hypereas now wore. Namely, the long sleeveless robe that bore the image of a halberd over a crumbling crescent moon-like circle. This, I surmised, likely represented their weapon of choice and their commitment to defending their capital.

Though the guards were armed and armored, they were relaxed and wielded mostly ceremonial-looking halberds that were too gaudy to be intended for combat. It was quite intimidating the way they moved in lockstep, and wore mostly grim, neutral expressions. For a moment I even worried that we were getting invaded, but then Redfist and her grinning entourage became visible.

Relaxed, and wearing robes like most of the dogs accompanying her, Capricio immediately spotted me. She chuckled and elbowed her son before pointing to me and making what I can only assume was a short joke. I responded by inhabiting my mountainous form above them, and lowering my giant stoney hand over her head, then putting it above my own in a mocking measurement.

That scared the heck out of their guards but made Redfist and her son erupt with laughter. Her general was annoyed but quietly laughed after Redfist elbowed her in the midsection. They then approached our table, while behind them crates of food and drink were being carried into the clearing, adding to the already quite sizable stockpile.

“Hail and well met mighty Gaea!” Capricio called, taking a spot the spot to my right which had been previously occupied by Earthbreak.

Him and Crystal Cadance quickly slipped away during the diamond dogs entrance, likely to avoid the coming political discussions. I couldn't say I blamed them really, I was just thankful that Leaflock remained to my left, while Quick Quill sat next to her. Bulwark was across from us, leaving just enough room for the diamond dog leader, her son, and her general to seat themselves.

“Hail and well met to you too, puny dog,” I retorted.

Redfist slugged me in the shoulder with surprising strength though the core of this body was made of metal so I didn't even move.

“You know normally that would warrant a drinking contest or arm wrestle, but I don't think I’ve got big enough arms for that,” Redfist retorted.

“I don't know. You do have quite the set of pipes on ya,” I replied.

Redfist grinned and flexed her admittedly, rather impressive arms for all to see. “I’m glad to see you can recognize true strength when you see it,” she declared rather triumphantly.

“I don't know Mom. Angelion might have you beat,” Sigvur, her rather soft-spoken son retorted, pointing to the now flexing Angelion who sat next to him.

“Up for that rematch?” taunted the diamond dog general. “It's been what, five years?”

“Seven, and no. I’m still not ready,” Redfist retorted.

Angelion chuckled and lowered her arms.

“Now, if we are done the boob measuring competition, I was hoping to make a few announcements before we began the feast proper,” I offered, glancing expectantly at Capricio.

“So long as you don't make any long-winded speeches or expect me to do the same,” Capricio shot back.

“I’m not known for being a windbag… most of the time,” I admitted.

“Then go right ahead,” Redfist replied while making a shooing motion at me.

I stood up on the table, and looked out over the mostly silent crowd, waiting for the remainder to quiet down. I didn't have to hold my breath for long as everyone quickly seemed to get the message, and stopped their private conversations.

“Children, friends, and family,” I began, glancing from the crowd to Redfist, and finally Bulwark. “These last few weeks have been turbulent for us all, but now peace has been established, and new bonds have been forged!”

A cheer went up amongst the ponies while the dog guards thumped the butts of their halberds against the ground in unison.

“We have not emerged unscathed, however!” I continued. “We have taken losses, we have suffered but we have endured and now we must look to the future. In time we will rebuild, in time we will grow, and eventually, we will create a nation as accepting and powerful as I know you all to be.”

That seemed to make even Redfist nod in agreement, the dogs and ponies alike agreeing with my words.

“Before we get to that a few announcements,” I declared. “The mountain you see before you shall be known as Gaea’s Reach, and the town growing in the caves below us will be referred to as Gaea’s Cradle.”

I held up a hand, cutting off the imaginary response.

“Before you accuse me of egotism, I will have you know that I did not choose those names, though I did give my blessing to the renaming of Lakeside which is now the village of Lone Tree!” I shouted while looking down at Leaflock.

The tree spirit shrunk slightly, seemingly embarrassed yet still proud. The rest of the crowd barked or shouted their agreement, not a single pony raising their voice in disagreement.

“We will also be formally welcoming Batheor and her people into our growing kingdom as an ally, but more importantly, as a friend,” I exclaimed.

Redfist rose from her seat and cleared her throat. “It is not in our nature to extend the hand of friendship to those outside our kind. Or at least it wasn't,” she paused for a moment. “Now that our great city has been saved by an outsider, and we have received critical aid from the ponies she calls her own things have changed. If we had remained isolated our last mountainhome would be a ruin and we would be homeless. So it is with great pleasure that I affirm our commitment to this alliance from now until the end of time!”

Her guards thumped their weapons, her dogs barked, and clapped, while my ponies stomped their hooves and shouted their agreement. I couldn't help but beam, the diamond dog’s statement coming out nearly exactly as I had hoped.

I knelt down. “That was almost longer than mine,” I whispered.

“Bah,” Capricio spat, a grin present on her face.

I stood back up. “Now then, with that business out of the way, I am happy to announce the commencement of the first annual Founder's Day feast!”

The cheer that went up nearly shook the mountain and the outpouring of appreciation and support made me grin from non-existent ear to non-existent ear. Even the soft-spoken Sigvur joined alongside Leaflock and just about every single creature present.

“What are you waiting for? Drink! Eat! Be merry!” I shouted.

With that, the feast began, and I concluded the first chapter of my new life.

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