Edited by Nazidash. Thanks!

I'm also sorry for the delay. I'll try to prevent it from happening again.

Darkness. Shadows. Dead trees. Dark ashes. Mist. Whispery voices. Fire. Agony. Death.

All of the above was surrounding me. I didn’t know where I was located, for I didn’t recognize the plain, dead environment. There wasn’t much to see anyways. This place was beyond horrid. It was just how I imagined the home of the dead to be before I saw it for myself.

“Hello?” I tried calling out, but my words only vanished into the mysterious haze. It was pointless. No one alive was around to greet me.

The echo-y, whispery voices in my head didn’t help my situation either. Those weren’t just random voices, but voices that belonged to people I knew. The voices of my mom and dad, my sister, the doctors in the hospital that were starting to recognize my face, everyone that hated me, my friends in Equestria, Dashie..

They were all slowly whispering events that occurred at some point in my life:

-“Wake up, son. We’re going camping!”

-“Be strong... we’ll meet again.”

-“How are your dead parents?”

-“Your cutie mark. It’s so... spectacular.”

-“I like you. I think we'll get along just fine.”

-“The patient is waking up!”

Not only did that bother me, but also did it trigger flashbacks from those times. They weren’t all bad, though. Some of them were actually pretty good. Especially the pony related ones. But the negative ones sure tried hard to break me down.

I really didn’t want to go anywhere, nor did I dare to move my limbs. But I couldn’t just stay there and do nothing, so I forced myself to keep on moving whilst listening to my memory. Like I said; some of them were great, but some of them nightmares, such as the times I got beat up in the alley.

The poisonous mist in the atmosphere around me made me feel weary and a lot worse than before. I didn’t know what exactly was causing it other than the the environment, but I felt like something was draining liquid from my body. I was in desperate need of water, or any liquid.

I kept going forward, but the further I went on, the worse I felt. My body even started to mysteriously malfunction. I felt for a sharp pain in my brain and suddenly, just out of the blue, I somehow managed to forget how to walk on four legs. I tried to fly instead, but crashed immediately to the ground. It was like forgetting how to use your hands or your feet. It was scary beyond belief. As if I wasn’t freaked out already anyways...

My mind was also affected. I didn’t know why, but I was starting to mentally resemble my former self again. The thought of me being a pony disturbed me. The worst part was the fact that I had mated with another pony. It completely disgusted me. I got awkward cold chills when I thought about me and Dashie together. I completely froze and squinted my eyes to the ground in shame. I wanted to reset my mind and go back to my old self. I was starting to miss Earth... my true home.

I didn’t know what kind of unknown force was taking hold of me, but I couldn’t fight it, even though I tried my best to. I wanted to peel my skin off; get rid of the cyan and replace it with tan. I needed my old body back. I even started searching for sharp objects around me to cut my wings off with. And I didn’t care whether it would be painful or not. I just wanted them off and that fast.

I hated this. I hated everything, even my “friends” back in Ponyville. Ponyville, Equestria and its residents became unreal to me. I started telling myself it was all made up and that I was probably just insane in a mental hospital back on Earth.

“This is all just a fucked up dream. I’ll probably just wake up in a bed back on Earth. Either in a mental hospital or in my apartment. Either way, I will go back to my normal human life.” I thought to myself. A part of me, the real part of me that still belonged in Equestria, resisted the sudden change of heart. That part was my only hope left of getting rid of my negative thoughts for good.

Oh yes. I was completely aware about it. I knew that this wasn’t me. I just couldn’t do anything about it. I felt like I was somebody’s puppet, and whoever was controlling me was pulling the strings.

But I’m a fighter, and I don’t give up despite difficulties. I forced two rough slaps to my face, and that somehow managed to get my mind back to my old self again. The hate, the urge to get rid of my pony body left me. My negative thoughts about my friends and my relationship with Dashie vanished away, and I regained my knowledge on how to walk and fly.

I swallowed hard. I felt very ashamed that I actually felt for disgust when I thought about the love of my life. But then, I couldn’t help it. Whatever it was that caused it, was gone.

Everything got weirder and weirder the further I went on.

I noticed bloodied and battered corpses all around me. They too had familiar faces.

The first one I noticed was none other than my best friend; Twilight Sparkle. I gasped, let myself fall to my knees next to her and put my right ear by her mouth and my hoof by her carotid artery. But I couldn’t find a life sign. She was dead.

After hugging her body and mourning her for a while, I stood up and continued my journey to the unknown.

I couldn’t believe it, but I noticed my family dead next to all the ponies I knew. My dad, mom and my little sister. All covered in blood and certainly not alive in the mud.

I lost my breath as I approached them. I let myself fall to my knees again next to them and just stared at them full of sadness and hate. Hate towards the drunken man that killed them. The flashback came back to me from that terrible night. The night I lost the people so important in my life. I watched as my sister died only one seat away from me. I will never forget those teary green eyes. I’d gladly die for her place if that was available.

I realized that whatever was causing this wanted exactly my sorrow. I bet it nourished on my grief. That’s why I decided to close my eyes, stand up and go away before I would feed it even further.

Or maybe there wasn’t anything trying to take a hold on me. Maybe I was just going insane...

But I couldn’t let those thoughts poison my mind. Whatever it was, it was trying to take control of me. Make me insane.

I continued my journey, but I didn’t know where to go. I just walked in a random direction and hoped for the best.

Yet another sight got my attention. And this one was different; the most special of them all. This one was the most heartwarming, most effective, even the most inspiring of them all. Definitely unexpected, too.

Now I came to realize what was going on. There wasn’t any evil supernatural force trying to take over my mind. I was dreaming, and everything I’ve been experiencing was an insight all along. I was looking into my life; into my past and into my future. The time when I wanted to become a human again; when I wanted to cut my wings off and peel my skin off probably resembled the times I couldn’t believe that I was in Equestria and that I was utterly terrified of my new body. The chills I got when I thought of my Dashie must’ve been from the times when I was against a relationship. And the bodies and all the blood and death around me must’ve been a sign of what would happen if I were to fail my mission.

I know I can see into the future, but it can’t be counted on for its inaccuracy. That’s why I wasn’t too upset when I saw Twilight’s corpse, because I can’t rely on anything I’m experiencing. But this before my eyes... this was believable. In fact, I wanted it to happen someday.

In front of me were spirits; some kind of holograms of my future family. A family I apparently would start if this part of my little dream would indeed come true and if I were to succeed my mission. Actually, it wasn’t hard to believe that it would happen someday. But I’m not an ordinary person. I live a dangerous life, and so does Dashie. Death is waiting for us at every corner, ready to take us in a cold embrace. We’re playing with death, and there’s a high chance of getting killed before our time. Well, we’d both experienced death. We just had to make sure we don’t have to experience it again for a very long time.

I saw my Dashie with two younglings next to her. From what I could see, there was a colt and a filly. The filly was orange colored like Rainbow’s mom, while the colt was cyan colored like us. But they both resembled us quite a bit.

The filly had heterochromia iridis. Her right eye was red, while her left one was magenta colored. It was amazing and utterly adorable. That was a proof that she was indeed my offspring. I already loved the “person” in front of me.

She apparently inherited Dashie’s mane color, but the pattern wasn’t quite the same, and there were a few different colors here and there.

And by the look of her, she was as wild, eager, and as energetic as we were.

I knew she couldn’t see me, as she wasn’t real. But I felt the image in front of me make eye contact with me, a warm smile on its face.

The colt, however didn’t look at me.

He had a black mane like I did. I also noticed that he had red eyes; the same red color as mine. He was like a mini version of me, which stunned me in a good way.. I felt like I was looking at myself. I completely forgot about time or anything around me while I stared at them with my mouth a bit open in amazement. I was completely speechless.

I watched them, amazed as they ran around with their big smiles on their faces. Rainbow was entertaining them and trying to teach them how to fly. They were both determined to learn the element so important to the Pegasi. To become great fliers.

I yelled out to them on accident, but they didn’t react to it.

Dashie couldn’t see me either. But it didn’t matter. I knew they weren’t real. This was all made up in my head. However, what I just saw might be my future if I were to stop Alduin and his madness.

Before I turned around to leave, something else happened. I saw a hologram of myself walking in their direction. That put an even wider grin on Rainbow, and on the kids... my kids.

The other me and Dashie nuzzled noses before he knelt down before the younglings and gave them a big hug, which they accepted in a heartbeat.

I must admit I was getting jealous, and intrigued where this was going. It didn’t make any sense, considering that this was supposed to be me, but I was still getting pretty anxious. I couldn’t help but to feel like this was really happening. And the fact that it may not happen at all made me sad.

But that wasn’t all. The next thing that happened was terrifying, and totally ruined that peaceful moment. All of a sudden I was surrounded by fire and flames. The dead trees around me started burning and I couldn’t go anywhere to get some shelter. I was once again surrounded by death, venomous smoke, and fire.

I heard deadly, distant roars from dragons. I couldn’t see any, but I could definitely hear them. Then I felt for Alduin’s deep voice again, completely killing off the peace of mind I had formed. The sight of my family cleansed my mind of any negativity. I felt like I was free from everything. But now that Alduin had disturbed that, I got filled with hatred and anger again. His sharp, dark voice boosted my urge to slay that beast.

I couldn’t see him anywhere, but I felt for his voice in my head. And this wasn’t a hallucination. This was real. He was actually speaking to me.

He was trying to break me down; trying to feed me false reports about my friends being false and fake. He told me that they were only using me to get to power. Some of them would even eventually betray me and turn their backs on me in the most inappropriate time. And that wasn’t all. He had to rub salt in the wound by saying that one of them would be very close to me.

I didn’t believe him, of course. But it still bothered me. What if someone would actually stab me in the back? The thought of someone close to me betraying me was a disturbing thought.

Twilight’s my best friend. She’s actually my first best friend ever, and she’d saved my life so many times. She would never betray me. Not in a millennium.

And Dashie, who’s way more than my best friend, a person who will be by my side for the rest of our lives. The person that supports me in any situation and the person who died for me; my soul mate.

She’d never do such a thing. And to add to that, she’s the embodiment of loyalty.

Daring Do, however, did fail me once. But she obviously felt bad about it, so I doubt she wants to repeat the same mistake again.

But if what Alduin said to me wasn’t a lie... no, I can’t think like that. Nobody is going to betray me. Not my friends, at least.

“You know of whom I speak of...” his slithering voice pierced into my brain.

“Go away!” I shouted into the air and grasped my head; as if I was trying to block his voice from reaching into my ears. But his voice didn’t come from the outside, but from the inside. His voice was wandering into my brain, and I couldn’t do anything about it.

“You don’t want to admit it, but--”

“Shut up!” I yelled again, determined to ignore the ideas he was trying to plant inside my mind. I knew he was trying to break me down, destroy my trusted fellowship and to get rid of his only threat once and for all. But suddenly, just out of the blue, he stopped talking. Whatever I did, I managed to get his voice out of my head. Thank the gods... his voice was as sharp as my blades and I couldn’t take anymore of it.

The heat was slowly killing me. I felt my energy being sucked away from me. The deadly hot flames around me made me weary, weak and extremely thirsty.

But that wasn’t all.

In a blink of an eye I was surrounded by violent looking foes. They were no dragons, but ponies. And that was something I couldn’t understand. We ponies had to stand together. It’s stupid to fight each other while the real threat is lurking at our doorstep. I guess some ponies just want to see the world burn, like the dragons...

I could only see four ponies in front of me, but I knew there was at least one behind me.

They didn’t say anything, but I knew they were here to kill me. I heard hoofsteps behind me, and realized that the first pony was about to make a move. I quickly unsheathed by blades, automatically turned around and swiped into the air. As the pony’s windpipe made contact to my blade, he disappeared.

So they wasn’t real either. They were just images.

A pony in front of me with a spear got up to me, but I didn’t try to resist this time. What’s the point of resisting and burning out energy if they weren’t real anyways?

I started hovering in the air with my wings, and crossed my arms whilst staring at the imaginary pony in front of me with a small frown. I wasn’t really in the air though. Merely an inch above the ground. My hooves barely touched the ground.

But something strange and unexpected happened. We actually made a physical contact as he stabbed me with his sharp, rusty spear deep into my intestines. The spear actually made its way through and out of my back. The pain of impact... god, it was like a small death.

I immediately fell to the ground gasping in pain, and violently started coughing up and drooling some of my blood as I watched the foe before me grinning with a victorious smile. That was one of the worst experiences I’d ever been through. Not as painful as when I crashed to the ground to win Dashie in a race, nor was it as painful as when I was being transferred to Equestria for the second time. But that definitely hurt.

I noticed that the enemy was still holding the shaft of the spear, so I used that opportunity to force myself to get up, turn around and therefore put him linear in front of his friends.

I knew I was done for, so I put all of my remaining strengths and energy into a one last Shout.

“Yol, Toor Shul!”

As soon as my fire breath made an impact on the imaginary, but somewhat real foes, they vanished into the air and turned to dust. Nothing was left of them.

The fire around me had suddenly quenched out, and I was back at the area with the bodies.

My legs gave up on me, making me fall down to my knees next to Twilight’s body. I had difficulties in breathing, and I had an urgent feeling to just lay down and get some sleep.

I looked up and saw yet another sight. Rainbow Dash was perhaps 15 feet away front of me. I noticed that she was crying and in desperate need of reaching me. But two soldiers kept her from running up to me. They held her steady and slowly and walked with her away. “We must get you to safety, he’s done for. He cannot be saved. I’m sorry.” one of them announced in a echo-y voice. She tried to fight back, but the guards were too strong; even for her. She was yelling my name with everything she had and I read from her lips a couple of “No’s”. “Let me go! It’s my job to keep him alive! It’s my responsibility!” she added, shouting in fury and sadness I’d never heard in her before.

I couldn’t do anything but watch and force a smile on my face while grunting in pain. I felt a single tear running down my face, both from the pain and the sight of my beloved Dashie. But they disappeared from my sight soon enough, leaving me alone yet again.

I knew I wouldn’t make it, and I didn’t want to die with the spear still stuck in my body, so I forced myself to remove it. Its removal was actually worse than being gutted by it. As soon as I ripped the weapon from my insides, I screamed in pain. I started getting incredibly cold, and my limbs began malfunctioning yet again. I still managed to toss the bloodied spear away from me before the rest of my body collapsed to the ground due to lack of blood and energy. I gasped and gasped. I felt like a fish on land. My body started to crumble. With each breath, my pain grew stronger and stronger and I couldn’t do anything about it.

I put pressure on the wound with my hooves to minimize the bleeding while I laid on the ground in the pool of my blood and tried to breathe lighter to minimize the pain as well as much as I could. With great effort, I put my left hoof on Twilight’s shoulder and whispered with my stuttered, but determined voice, “I-I’ll s-see you s-soon, Twi”, before I completely lost my breath. I closed my eyes and listened to my weak heartbeat pumping the liquid of life through my veins before it completely stopped.

“I know that, Rainbow. But recruiting allies are a necessity and a priority to everything else. Duty always comes first. I expected you of all people to know that. Just ask Drake when he wakes up, he’ll agree with everything I say.” whispered Daring Do.

“Could you relax a bit? We just reclaimed Ponyville. I think we’ve earned a bit of rest, don’t you think? And besides, you said you wanted to pay us a beer. I’m holding you to that.” Rainbow replied, also in a whisper. They clearly didn’t want to wake me up from my beauty sleep. But they didn’t realize that I had already woken up. I just didn’t show it yet.

My first reaction after I woke up was holding my hooves firmly against my still agonized tummy. I searched for a wound that never existed. However, I still felt like my insides were all cut up and sliced.

My first thoughts, however, led to the memory of my future family. I don’t think I’ll ever forget those astonishing eyes of my daughter.

“You saw for yourself how most of the residents of Ponyville ended up like! We can’t let that happen again. We need to get rid of the threat as soon as possible. Only then can we cheer and celebrate all we want. But not until Alduin’s head is on a spike!” Daring Do spat out and tried as hard as she could to persuade her. Being persuasive was another trait she had obtained through her years at the Bards College before her dedication as an adventurer.

“Come on. We shouldn’t be too worried. We did weaken them and their cause when we showed Alduin that we are strong and resilient. I even heard rumors about rebel groups forming among the dragons ever since Alduin’s defeat in Ponyville. So maybe we could recruit some of those rebels. Get them on our side.”

“Oh, we shouldn’t be too worried? Well, that’s where you’re wrong. You saw those bodies back in Ponyville. You saw yourself what they did to them. Oh, no my friend, we have every reason to be cautious. Speaking of which, aren’t you worried now that Drake has been out for what, three days?”

Rainbow hesitated a bit when she heard my name mentioned. She looked at the table in front of her and somehow seemed to be getting nervous. She exhaled and looked into her eyes before answering: “Of course I’m worried. He keeps blacking out and I have no idea why. My bet is that it has something to do with him being a former human, but... I’m not sure.” she said with a sad tone in her voice. She sighed before continuing, “Anyhow, I hope it stops soon. I can’t help but to worry that he will eventually go into a deep sleep someday, and won’t wake up. I don’t know what to do if that happens. I know I’m being pessimistic again, but what if it does happen? And with the dangerous life he’s living, what if he... what if he actually dies soon? And that brings up another question I’ve been wondering myself for quite some time now. What if he dies after killing Alduin? What if he sacrifices himself for the greater good or something? Or if he doesn’t die, what if he gets into a tragic accident, resulting in a serious injury that will slow him down for the rest of his life? Or if he gets teleported back into his former world and gets stuck there for the rest of our lives? Or what if he-“

“Shh, shh. Your worries for his mental and physical health is natural. Don’t dwell on it though. I’m sure he’s fine, and I’m sure his unexplainable blackouts aren’t because of his former life. It must be Alduin having an effect on him, or the fact that he shares the same blood as the dragons and is somehow influenced by it or... something. I’ve no idea. But don’t worry, I’m sure this isn’t permanent. He’ll slay Alduin and his servants and you two will live a happy life. I just know it.”

She closed her eyes and took a deep breath before answering: “This isn’t a fairytale, you know?” she pointed out both in a joke mixed with seriousness. “ Eh... you may be right. But enough about that. And to get back to our former conversation; you don’t expect us to travel North as soon as he wakes up, do you? We must take it easy. He’s not ready for such a long voyage yet.”

I had my eyes wide open, but hidden from view the whole time after I woke up. I somehow wasn’t surprised that I had blacked out in Ponyville and woke up three days later in my apartment, even though I probably should be. But what Rainbow said did sort of make sense. Did my sudden collapses have something to do with my former life? Was I still somehow connected to Earth or the humans, and did that have an effect on my life here?

I slowly got out of bed and stood up but they didn’t seem to notice anything. They were too focused on their little conversation that they had blocked out everything that was happening around them. I took my sweet time stretching my limbs and wings, and even yawned rather loudly. But still no reaction and that surprised me a bit. Then again, they did have their backs turned on me and they were in the kitchen.

“I know I owe you guys a drink, but can’t that wait for a bit? You know yourself that we live in crucial times. First of all--”

I faked a cough and knocked on the wall beside them, and that finally seemed to steal their attention. They both stared at me in startle, completely speechless, before they quickly stood up from their chairs. Rainbow gasped in surprise before flinging at me into a tight hug. I returned it without any hesitation, gave her a pat on the back and chuckled a bit. It sure was good getting back into her arms again. I inhaled the air and closed my eyes while the moment lasted. I then let go of her and gave her a small kiss on her temple.

“Why so surprised to see me?” I asked and pretended I didn’t know anything about me being out for three days.

“Gods damn it, Drake. You’ve been out for three stinking days. I was starting to fear for the worst--”

I put my right hoof on her snout to shut her up and said: “Hey, it’s alright. I’m up now and ready to kick ass.”

I turned around to face Daring Do who wore a small relieved smile on her face as well. She was happy to see me up again, as was I in seeing her.

“How are you both? Anything new while I was out?”

“In a matter of fact, yes. We have much to talk about.” Rainbow simply notified me and walked into the living room towards the sofa. She expected us to follow, but Daring Do hesitated.

“You go ahead and fill him in on the details. If you don’t mind, I’m going to get a nap. See you guys later.”

After Daring was gone from our sight, and we had taken our seats next to each other, she continued: “Ponyville is currently under reconstruction as we speak. The markets have been opened again and ponies are allowed to go to their homes.”

“Well, that’s good.”

“That’s not all. Our victory in Ponyville didn’t only send a message to Alduin, but also to all the dragons. We’ve been getting reports about rebel groups forming among them. Just like in the old war when ponies turned their backs on each other in fear of being killed. That’s a good sign. That means we’re weakening them. In addition, we could take an advantage of that. Maybe we could recruit them? That would be so cool! And that would also seriously help our cause.”

“An army of dragons... I like the sound of that!” I said very interested and nodded a couple of times. I closed my eyes and started imagining the big fight. The armies of rebellious dragons, Argonians and ponies united as friends and allies; storming their gates and bringing the fight to them. I just hoped everything would go according to plan. “But what about Odahviing? He got a pretty bad wound from Alduin, if I recall correctly. How’s he doing?”

“Odahviing’s better than ever, thanks to the Unicorns’ healing spells. He left as soon as he recovered, which didn’t take more than a single day. He said he was heading to the peak of the Throat of the World. Apparently, Paarthurnax allowed him to stay there with him. Before he left, he told me to deliver a message to you that you could always reach him by Shouting his name, or just by visiting him whenever you’d like. He won’t go anywhere unless summoned.”

“Good that he’s alright. Frankly, I’m more worried about you.” I said. I know myself that I’ve put her into a lot of stress and worries lately, considering that I’ve put my life on the line so many times.

Rainbow sighed and stood up, turning her back to me. “Well, I’m still having those bad dreams ever since that fucking pig sexually violated me. I keep waking up in the middle of the night, but having you around me helps calm me down and to get me back to sleep. Just the fact that you’re here with me makes me feel safe and secured. But other than that, I’m fine. You shouldn’t be worried of me. In a matter of fact, I should be worried of you.” she added and turned around to look at me deep in the eyes. She had this look on her face that scared me a bit.

“Please don’t talk about him. We’ve agreed never to speak of him, or the thing he put us through ever again.” I answered and stood up as well to face her. I noticed how nervous she was getting. She gazed at the ground as she was overtaken by a somewhat sad feeling. “But I know why you’re worried of me. I can feel it. And I know that you’re scared of losing me. But I’ll never leave you.” I whispered to her and pushed her chin up so I could look at her face. Her eyes were full of worries, but still with the confidence she always had. I got a sting in my heart by looking at her in that stance, but I gave her a small smile in return in the purpose of making her feel better. “Never.” I repeated to be absolutely sure that she caught that.

Dashie turned her sad frown into a smile and hugged me again tightly, but I still felt her slight distrust. I decided to ignore that and returned it with a grin of my own and smoothly nuzzled her snout in the purpose of getting rid of that distrust that she had formed within herself.

I loved hugging her. There wasn’t anything quite like it. Her soft body, smooth mane, and just being in her presence was now as important to me as breathing. I knew that, more than anything, it was her I was fighting for.

While still locked in a hug, I rested my hooves on her shoulders and smiled widely to her. “I overheard your little talk with Daring Do. I gotta say that I agree with you. We’ve earned a little rest. What do you say about having a drink or two at the bar later tonight? We can bring Daring Do with us and the rest of our friends and have a good time before heading out to... wherever we’re going.”

I noticed that my suggestion clearly got her attention. She slowly turned her warm smile into a big happy grin. “Yes! I’d love that!” she replied happily and gave me a small smooch which didn’t last for very long.

I laughed back a bit awkwardly, but it wasn’t an uncomfortable one. We both sat down on the sofa again, and as usual I let her use my chest as her pillow while I brushed her mane softly. “Dashie?” I asked hesitantly.

“Yes?” she reacted without looking at me. She was in a position way too comfortable to ruin.

“Alduin spoke to me in my dream. He told me one of my closest friends would betray me.”

Rainbow twitched her ears as a reaction. “Meh. Don’t listen to him. You know we’d never betray you. Not in a thousand years.” She was so confident about it that she didn’t even turn around to look me in the face properly. She took it as a joke and she even laughed at it. I looked down to her and noticed her confident smile, which made me feel pretty secure.

“I know that neither you nor any of my other friends would ever betray me. I just can’t picture it.” I said but sighed. We didn’t say anything for a while. I noticed that Dashie was getting ready for a small nap. The complete silence was comfortable and tiring but I decided to break it anyways. I swallowed before continuing “Anyways, while I was asleep I saw... I saw both of my families.”

That, however, made her open her eyes and turn around to look directly at me. She had a surprised look on her face. “What do you mean?”

“You remember the last time I blacked out? I was brought back to Earth. But this time, I woke up in a dead, plain environment somewhere far beyond both Earth and Equestria. It was a horrific sight. Dead trees, haze, mist, smokes, ashes and fires everywhere. But that wasn’t all. I actually went through the stages of my life.”

Rainbow was both interested and surprised in what I had to say. “W-What do you mean both families? You were a part of two families?” she asked just as surprised and confused as I was.

“Well, one of them was my family from the past, the one that died in the car crash, but the other one was from the future.” I swallowed hard before continuing. “It was... beautiful. I...I’ve never seen anything quite like it. It was simply--”

Rainbow now completely turned around and sat up on my lap. She put her right hoof on my snout to shut me up like I did earlier. I didn’t know how she’d take the news. If she would be happy, scared or angry about it. I gulped as I looked into her magenta eyes.

“Wh-what did you see?” she asked calmly in a half whisper, but still a bit startled and couldn’t help but to open her mouth a bit.

“I saw... our family.” I explained and pointed first at my chest, then poked lightly at hers. “A family we’ll start according to my little vision. I know we can’t rely on anything I see, but I actually saw into our future we’ll have when we defeat Alduin. I’ve never seen myself as a family person, but I gotta admit... after seeing that--” I paused and hesitated. I sighed and swallowed before continuing: “Never mind. It doesn’t matter anyways. It can’t be trusted and it may well be that it won’t ever happen. Forgot I said anything. Let’s just focus on--”

“Please, tell me.” she demanded as seriously as she could, but still mildly. She was still piercing me with her stare. And I still couldn’t analyze her; how she felt about it. Well, except for the fact that she was both excited and interested.

“In my dream I saw a hologram of us, as well as of our...future children. A colt and a filly. The filly had different colored eyes. Her right eye was red, while her left one was magenta; like yours. She was orange colored like your mom and had multi-colored mane as you. The colt was just a mini version of me. Cyan fur, black mane, red eyes.” Dashie lost her breath for a second as I talked and turned her full focus on what I had to say. I noticed the sparkles in her eyes. “I saw you teaching them how to fly. They were both eager and happy, as were you. Before the image disappeared, a hologram of me entered the picture and gave the children a hug. That’s how it ended.”

Rainbow didn’t say anything. She was as still as a statue. The only movements were from her chest and her eyes analyzing my face. She swallowed hard before hesitantly hugging me again. I returned it, and we rested in each other’s arms for what seemed a long while.

“What... what do you think of it?” I hesitantly asked and hoped for the best. I wasn’t hoping for acceptance, but for honesty. I knew she wasn’t a family type, and neither was I. But after I saw that vision, I think a big part of me had changed. I wanted my own family now. But I still wasn’t quite ready for it. And the times we lived in didn’t allow it.

“I don’t know. I just-- I just don’t know. As of now, I’m not ready for such a thing, and neither are you, I take it. But this-- I just... I don’t know. This is all so sudden. I have to digest this. Let’s speak of this some other time.”

“Like I said. It may well be it won’t happen at all. Maybe the gods showed this to me to boost my eagerness. But whether this will happen or not, I think it’s something worth fighting for. And if it doesn’t happen, or if we decide to ignore it... well, at least we got each other. Hopefully...” I said but whispered the last word. I had no idea what would happen to us in the future, but I knew it wasn’t bright as of now.

“We have to go through this. Alduin will try harder than ever to crush us, especially after his defeat in the fight for Ponyville. We must get ready and stay on guard.” she pointed out and put her hooves on my shoulders. I didn’t respond her but looked deep into her eyes once again, and without a smile this time. I was too confused. “Alduin said someone would betray you. I don’t believe him, but if it actually does happen. If anyone does betrays you...” she added and poked at my manubrium. “They betray me too. And messing with me is not healthy.”

I grabbed her forehooves and said, “That’s not gonna happen. We have good friends. Trustworthy friends. Together we will face Alduin and his army. And together we will defeat them.”

That brought a determined, approved smile on Dashie. “Now that’s what I like to hear!”

“But today we rest and enjoy ourselves.”

Out of the blue, Rainbow gasped as she remembered something. “Oh! I almost forgot! Celestia and Luna would like to speak to you.”

“Really? Huh. Alright. But tell me. How did they react to the news of you being alive?”

“They invited me to her castle for a little talk as soon as they got the news. I explained to them that you managed to bring me back. Celestia had mixed feeling about that. Of course she was happy to see that I was back, but she seemed a bit annoyed that you spent your time trying to save me and risked your life unnecessarily instead of focusing on the dragons. But she understood your intentions, and is more than happy that I was brought back. But one thing’s funny. I noticed that Luna had a small, subtle, proud smile on her face. She was obviously trying to hide it, since she tried everything in her power to prevent eye contact. And when Celestia asked her if she had something to do with me being alive, she just denied and looked away nervously while chuckling clumsily.”

“Ha, well, don’t tell Celestia, but if it wasn’t for Luna, you’d still be dead.” I pointed out and closed my eyes pretty amused. “Anyways. We shouldn’t keep them waiting, should we? We’ll go talk to the Princesses, and then we can go meet our friends and have a drink or two at the Prancing Pony. What do ya say?” I suggested and smiled clumsily.

Rainbow got off me and stood up. “Hell yeah!” she almost shouted. She quickly flew away to the other side of the room next to our bed and returned back with my helmet and handed it over. I smiled widely when I saw my beloved helmet once again, but I didn’t accept it.

“Put it on. I wanna see how you look like with it.”

“You want me to... try it out?” she asked rather confused, but I could see it on her face that she had always wanted to try it out. I had noticed that she was very fond of it, even though she did point out that I should wear it less in privacy or when I was off-duty.

I nodded and waited patiently for her to put it on. Dashie gave me a small squee and a smile as a response and didn’t hesitate putting it on.

She looked like a true warrior with it on. Even I was terrified of her. Did that mean I really looked much scarier when I wore it? Was that perhaps the reason why she wanted me to wear it less? Knowing Rainbow, that couldn’t have been the case. Whatever the reason, if she wanted me to wear it less, I’d be happy to oblige. Although, the helmet made me feel safer than I already was.

She flew over to the mirror next to the exit door and admired herself. She started posing in mid-air in threatening positions, punching towards the mirror and whispered to herself how awesome she looked; how mighty and powerful she was.

Her confidence always cracked me up. I loved how determined she was. I stood up, slowly walked over to her and looked at myself in the mirror.

I still hadn’t gotten used to my pony body. I had been a human for many years, and was accustomed to two arms, two legs, and everything else that goes with being human.

My new body still reminded me of the mysterious stallion that saved my life when I was about to get beheaded. And ironically, my freedom was also of Alduin’s doing.

I wanted to meet that pony again, but his whereabouts remain unknown.

I stared deep into the red eyes of the person in front of me. I blinked a couple of times and turned my head a bit to the right to take a good look at my ear, mane, and cheek. The other guy responded by doing the same thing.

Rainbow was still admiring herself in the mirror with the helmet. She seemed to like it, judging by how proud she was of herself. She got into an aggressive stance, frowned at herself, gnawed her teeth and growled a bit as if she was practicing for her next opponent.

I quickly shook my head and fixed my attention to her. “You look pretty badass with it on.” I pointed out, “Might have guessed you were the Dragonborn.”

“Heh... maybe I am! Maybe I just haven’t found out about it yet.” she half joked and grinned widely at me with her eyes closed. “In all seriousness, who knows? Truly. Maybe I am. There have been multiple Dragonborns over the years.” she continued her little joke that was starting to take a serious turn and chuckled.

“I hate to break it to you, but the gods themselves told me I was the only Dragonborn in our times.”

“Pfft. You’re a mood killer.” she muttered and took my helmet off. “Take it then. Wear it as a true Dragonborn would.”

“Why don’t you hold on to it a little while longer? Tell you what... you can wear it for a full day!” I suggested and made it sound like a joke, although I did mean it. “It fits you well. I’m sure our enemies won’t even dare messing with you with it on. But I’ve gotta get it back after a day or two. I feel... naked... without it.”

“Heh. Not messing with me would be wise. I know that I look powerful, but there is still more about me than meets the eye.” she boasted full of herself and closed her eyes. “But I think I will hold on to it for now. Thanks, Drake. It shall be put to good use.”

I slowly walked away from her and towards the big window in the other side of her apartment. The view was beautiful as always. Especially at nights when the big moon was out and the stars shining brightly. The big colorful Northern Lights furtherly added to the magic. Sometimes they were yellow, sometimes blue, red or the traditional green. Sometimes, but rarely, they were a mixture of all above. And sometimes two big planets next to each other turned visible. Either way, I never got tired of watching the lights, stars and the immense planets that appeared so close to us. They reminded me of beauty; that there was still something beautiful in this world. Although Equestria was still filled with peace and beauty, the days were growing darker and darker, thus, completely clouding that view within many. But I meant to change that one way or the other. There would be enemies in my path. They would try anything to prevent me from reaching my goal. But that’s not going to happen. Because I’m not alone in my quest. I got my faithful comrades by my side. Together we will face them and together we will defeat them. One way or the other, Alduin and his servants will fall.

I got lost in my own thoughts, and that’s why I didn’t notice Rainbow approaching me from behind. She got up next to me and put her right arm around me. She didn’t say anything either. She just stared through the window and tried to spot the point I was looking at. But I wasn’t looking at anything specific. I was merely thinking about life and death, and the consequences should I fail my mission.

“I know what you’re thinking about. Quit it.” she ordered me and started to frown a bit. “You can’t dedicate your life to your assignment. Live your life while you can. Your job shouldn’t be the main goal in your life.” Before I could object, she continued. “And drop the speech about how important this is, because I know it is. Even the world depends on it. But that doesn’t mean you can’t allow yourself to... enjoy existing, being with your friends, have fun. Ever had fun, huh?”

“You don’t understand.” I sighed sharply and looked away. “I can’t help it. It’s buried deep in my brain, and I just can’t block it out. I literally can’t ignore it. I just... have this urge. It’s extremely irritating. Believe me, there’s nothing I’d like more than being free from these thoughts.”

“At least that’s a sign that you’re a good person.” she reassured me and shook my left shoulder. I however didn’t say anything in response, nor did I look at her. “Hey, look at me.” she continued and turned my head to her direction. “We’re going to this little meeting with the Princesses. Then we’re going to have a good time with our friends, and I’ll make sure you’ll get your mind off your worries. One way or another. You copy?” she asked.

I didn’t dare do anything but nod quickly a numerous times. That brought a relieving smile on her face.

“Good. Now, let’s wake up Daring Do and get the hell out of this place.” she demanded as she pointed at the door. But I still wouldn’t budge. I was still bothered and annoyed by my constant thoughts of Alduin, his plans and what would happen if he’d win.

She rolled her eyes when she noticed that I wasn’t convinced. “C’mon. Whenever I feel worried, depressed or whatnot, I take a good route around Cloudsdale or Ponyville. Always clears my mind. Wanna try it out?” she suggested pretty excited. We hadn’t flown together in our free times since the night at the bar, our second evening together.

But I liked her plan. Flying around with her would surely take my mind off things I didn’t want to think about.

With a smile I said “Yeah... let’s do that.”

Dashie was thrilled that I had agreed to fly with her. And she was right. Breathing in the fresh cool air and racing her from Cloudsdale to Ponyville and back again really did remove my thoughts of death. She was quicker than me this time, but I wasn’t really putting effort into it like I did when we raced for the first time. Back then I really wanted to beat her with all my heart. Now I just wanted to have a good time and take it easy. She boasted about beating me, of course, but I didn’t mind it. It actually kind of amused me when she did that. After all, that was one of the reasons why she was my favorite pony back when I was a human.

After all that, we went back home to go get Daring Do. It was time to check on the royal Princesses. I didn’t have a clue what they wanted, nor did I care. But I didn’t want to ignore them, so I decided to attend their little meeting and just get it over with. The reason why I didn’t like visiting them was because everything they had to tell me always concerned my job as the Dragonborn. I wanted to just ignore that for a little while. I wanted to enjoy myself a bit like Dashie suggested. Make my stay here in Equestria as enjoyable as I could.

At last we arrived to the royal castle. A couple hours of flight felt like ten minutes since the three of us communicated the whole way, making time seem faster to pass. And I finally managed to keep my thoughts of Alduin away this time. Dashie and Daring made sure of that.

“Dragonborn.” said Celestia, full of honor, when she noticed me by the entrance. “Please, approach.”

I nodded to both of them and did as she requested. Dashie and Daring Do silently followed and made sure not to create unnecessary noises by shutting their mouths. The atmosphere felt holy. I sensed no evil of any kind in that room.

We got up to the two apparently happy Princesses. They wore big smiles on their faces, and looked very happy and relieved. At least in comparison to last time I met them, which was when I brought the deceased Dashie with me. The look on Luna’s face is still fresh in my memory. And I was a bit surprised that she was actually sadder than Celestia over Rainbow’s death. But in the meantime, I understood why. Luna’s convert into the light was partly of Rainbow’s doing. Without her, she’d without a doubt be lost in darkness for eternity, and surely banished again to the moon. She would crave for freedom in her darkness for another millennium or so.

The first thing we did when we got up to them, we knelt down and bowed our heads towards the ground. Daring Do even removed her hat and put it next to her chest in a matter of respect.

“Dragonborn, step forward.” demanded Luna in all seriousness.

I stepped a small step forward and gulped. I didn’t know what they wanted, but the tone worried me a bit.

“We told you to go to Ponyville and deal with the dragon attack. You did. And not only did you save the town, but you also saved many lives. If you hadn’t brought them down...”

“I wasn’t alone. I was only a part of the triumph. You should thank your soldiers who clearly did their jobs. And my comrades. I couldn’t had done it without them.” I interrupted. “You see, I don’t want all the honor because I’m just one guy. And does me being a Dragonborn make me any better than the rest of you? I may wield an incredible power like none other, but I’m certainly not a better person than anyone else. I could never have accomplished Ponyville’s retake without my friends and the soldiers you and your sister sent out.”

Luna suddenly stood up furiously from her throne and looked me sharply in the eyes. “Drop thy hero act! We both know that thou served the biggest part of our success! We’ll make sure we honor the ones that participated in Ponyville’s defense, but if thou hadn’t come along, there wouldn’t be a Ponyville at all anymore! So be silent and let us speak!” she shouted in the Royal Canterlot Voice. She seemed to have learnt to control it, but decided to unleash it upon me to shut me up. And it worked. Maybe I deserved it.

“She’s right. You really should allow yourself to take some credit. You’re the biggest reason why Ponyville still stands. You know this. You just don’t want to admit it.” Dashie pointed out and put her hoof on my shoulder. “It’s alright.”

I sighed and nodded in defeat. Although what they said did make sense, I still felt like all the honor and gratitude they showed me wasn’t deserved. I felt like I was part of a whole. But since they demanded it to be this way, then who am I to argue? I just do what I’m told. And this situation was no different.

Luna cleared her voice before continuing. “By our right as Princesses, we name you Thane of Ponyville and Canterlot. Congratulations. You have now the rights to buy a property in either of those holds. We’ll also notify the Guards of your new title, wouldn't want them to think you're part of the common rabble now."

I heard Daring Do and Dashie gasp in excitement behind me. But I didn’t get it. What’s the purpose of Thanes?

“I don’t quite follow. I thought I was already not a part of the “common rabble”. And what is a Thane?”

“Please note that even though you’re the Dragonborn, you must follow the common rules. You being a Dragonborn didn’t give you any more rights than the others. But now that you’re our Thane, you’re now higher ranked than the civilians and therefore have more rights than most ponies. But crimes such as murder and stealing is obviously never acceptable under any circumstances. Well, self-defense is another matter.” Celestia added mildly and a bit proudly. She was still under the influence of our victory in Ponyville.

“But what about the fact that I’m able to purchase my own property now? Does that mean everybody that owns a property in either of those holds are thanes as well?” I asked confused.

“Of course not. You may be the Dragonborn and the prophecy the Elder Scrolls had predicted, but due to your criminal past, we couldn’t allow you to become a resident in either Ponyville or Canterlot. You, however, live in Cloudsdale with your wife. That’s not our hold and therefore not our business. But now that we’ve named you our Thane, it cleared your name at the same time.”

“Now wait just a minute!” Rainbow interrupted. “Drake is no criminal! He was framed!” she added and allowed herself to frown at the princesses.

I felt anger and disappointment building up within me, but I remained calm and mild at Rainbow. I slowly nodded to her and indicated with that that she should drop it. I had it under control. Dashie nodded back and backed away. But she didn’t regret anything.

The reason for my anger and disappointment was because I just woke up in a carriage on my way to get executed and was blamed for something I didn’t even do. Or whatever I did, I wasn’t aware of it. But that thought was pretty disturbing. If I wasn’t controlling my body back then, then who was? I got goosebumps when I thought about it and shook my head.

“What do you mean Cloudsdale ain’t your hold? Aren’t you two the rulers of Equestria?”

Celestia and Luna both looked at each other and laughed softly before answering me. “Oh, gods no, my dear Dragonborn. We are two of many royals throughout Equestria. For example, there’s a king in Solitude, or well, there was a king before he got killed--”

“Yeah... The Stormcloaks’ leader; Ulfric, Shouted him to death, didn’t he?” I interrupted a bit surprised. I had always thought they were in charge of the whole land. Clearly, I was mistaken.

“Yes. He’s now the Jarl of Windhelm, another hold in Equestria if you didn’t already know.”

“But...but, you two raise the sun and the moon! That’s got to make you superior to the other royals, right?” I pointed out really surprised. This was getting very interesting.

“No. We’re only doing the parts entitled to us. The king in the north, for an example, brings out the Northern Lights, while the Queen in Markarth, another beautiful hold in the west, brings out the stars. We all have our roles. We’re all equal, and we have been given the responsibilities to watch over the holds we had been provided.” Explained Luna.

I was starting to understand a bit. Kings, queens and princesses didn’t have the same meaning as on Earth. Instead, they are another name for guardians. They’re the ones making sure everything’s alright. But everything started to make a bit more sense for me. Before our conversation, I had been wondering about the king that got killed. I was puzzled by the fact that there was a king at all since I thought Celestia and Luna, as well as their family were the only royals in Equestria.

“I... I see.” I murmured and tried to wrap my head around those facts.

“Anyways, now that you are Thane, you will be given a housecarl--”

“What is a housecarl?” I interrupted again.

Luna and Celestia were starting to get a little annoyed. “We would appreciate if you’d let us finish for once.”

“Sorry, won’t happen again.” I excused myself and blushed in shame.

“A housecarl is a formidable warrior who is entitled to defend their master at any cost. They must be close to their master at any times. If their master is attacked, the housecarl will be the first to enter the battle to fight for his or her liege's life. That is, if help is needed. We know you’re already in good hooves, but as a part of your role as a Thane, you must get a housecarl.”

I nodded pretty interested. “And may I choose whoever I wish to be my housecarl?”

“No. We will grant you one of our finest warriors to accompany you wherever you go until you relieve him off duty. But that’s not recommended.”

“Well, sorry, but I don’t want your elite warrior.” I turned around to look at Dashie who seemed to be focusing completely on our conversation. “I want Rainbow Dash to be my housecarl.”

Both Rainbow Dash and the princesses gasped when I said that. Judging by Rainbow’s facial expression, this was like a long lost dream coming true. Actually getting a job as the Dragonborn’s bodyguard.

“Sorry, but that’s not possible--”

“It’s either her or nobody.” I pointed out with a confident smile as I looked at the Princesses.

“Dragonborn! We told you--”

“Just let it go.” Luna intervened. “Let her be his housecarl. She had proven many times to be a great warrior. I bet she will do her job just fine. And besides, I think they’ll work together better than the random warrior who’s supposed to accompany him.”

Celestia sighed and nodded in defeat. “So be it. Rainbow Dash, you are hereby stripped of your current job as a guardian of the weather, and are named the housecarl of Canterlot and Ponyville’s thane; Drake. From now on you two are inseparable. This is your new job so you will receive payment each month to keep you both fed and for a roof over your heads. Is that clear?”

Rainbow dropped to her knees, completely speechless, and couldn’t help but to stare at me and the Princesses. She slowly nodded in amazement and swallowed hard. “I-I will do my best, my Princesses.”

“We’re sure you will. Just remember that his life is in your hooves now. It’s your job to keep him safe and alive. His life is your responsibility. So you better be prepared for whatever difficulties may lie on his path. Shouldn’t be too hard for you, since you two are so well connected already.”

Rainbow Dash stood up, put on a small determined frown and saluted them. “You can count on me!”

That brought a wide smile to all of our faces. “Good. Now that that’s been dealt with, and if there isn’t anything else, I’ll be going now. I have business elsewhere. Thank you again, and I’m honored to be your, eh, Thane.”

“And Drake?” Luna shouted after me when we were halfway down the hallway on our way to the exit. I turned around and looked at her.

“Yes?” I responded, kind of surprised that she used my real name instead of my title. It was more personal that way and I liked it. To be honest, I was getting a bit tired of being called Dragonborn. It made me feel like I was just some tool.

“I’m happy for you.” she added and winked at me subtly. I smiled at her and nodded slowly before I turned around and left the empty room with my comrades.

Walking into the Prancing Pony reminded me of why I had gone there before; to drown my sorrows at Dashie’s death away. I had wanted to keep drinking, and never stop. But I hadn’t, and for that I was glad.

Fair sums of ponies were on the dance floor, drunk, dancing to electro music. Electro music.. that made me wonder. Since everything is so medieval, then why did they have electro music but no computers? But then, I wasn’t on Earth anymore, so it didn’t really surprise me.

Rainbow Dash was already drunk and speaking and laughing with Soarin’ while Daring Do was talking to random ponies I’ve never seen before. Twilight was seated and spending her time with the rest of her friends while I sat by the bar next to Spitfire with the beers Daring Do paid for me. Apparently, she decided to pay more than one beer as an apology for keeping my drink waiting. I was fine by that. I had drunken them all, but I wanted more.

Equestrian beer, however, much to my surprise, is much stronger than the stuff back on Earth. I was pretty damn drunk myself, but I was having a good time and that was just what I needed.

“Hey.. you!” I shouted after the bartender with a clumsy smile. “Put more of the liquidity... stuff... in the.. the thingy in front of me.” I continued and let out a random squeaky laugh.

The bartender, light gray unicorn, rolled his eyes and sighed annoyingly, but obeyed me.

I took big gulps of the ice cold beer and exhaled in relief. “Now this thing is good! I’m having fun! This is... I mean, no dragons! No dragons at all! Just... fun! So much fun!!”

“Aye!” shouted Spitfire in agreement and gave me a reassuring pat on my shoulder. “I second that!”

“Hey... Spittie? How is Dashie doing in your little... group of yours? Ain’t she like... amazing?”

Spitfire wasn’t nearly as drunk as I was, but she was still affected by alcohol. I had been talking to her for quite some time now, and she seemed like a really decent person. I wanted to get to know her better and she undoubtedly wanted to get to know me better as well.

“Oh, yes! She’s a great flier. She reminds me of... of her mother. Maybe she’ll become the next Wonderbolts’ leader after me! Who knows?”

“That’s good to hear. But excuse me, Spittie--” I uttered with a smile and turned around to face the bartender once again.  “Hey, Mr. Provider! You heard any...like... rumors lately or somethin’?”

He sighed sharply before answering me. “Well, there is this colt called “Aventus Aretino” in Ponyville who’s been trying to perform The Black Sacrament. Apparently he wants someone dead. He’s locked himself in a house two blocks away from here and won’t let anyone but the assassin in.”

“The Black Sacrament? That sounds... silly! What is it anyways?” I asked without taking him seriously and laughed.

“You don’t know about the Sacrament? If you want someone dead, you contact The Dark Brotherhood. To do that you must perform a dark ritual to call out for an assassin. Once you two meet, you arrange a contract. The person gives the assassin some valuables and the assassin takes out the victim for you.”

“The Dark Brotherwhat? Assassins? Hah! That’d be the day! And please, give me more of that good stuff!”

“No, you’ve had enough!” He shouted at me ferociously. “Now, go somewhere else or I must ask you to leave. I refuse to give you any more alcohol.”

“Geez... calm down bro. You should lighten up a little! Hey, Spittie, come with me. This... man over there, eh, sorry, I mean, stallion over there, he doesn’t like me very much.” I tried to explain but was way too drunk to think straight. I gently grabbed her hoof and stood up.

Spitfire simply laughed and didn’t hesitate following me wherever I was leading her.

I noticed Dashie dancing with Soarin’ on the dance floor. They were both obviously drunk, and truly reflected that by how they acted. Rainbow noticed me, shot a grin and waved over to me. I waved back.

“You see that, Spittie? She’s mine. All mine!”

“Hah! Yeah, she’s... lucky to have you, Drake!” she answered and punched me in my shoulder again.

“And Soarin’ is lucky to have you!” I replied and gave her a light tap on her back. “Come on! Let’s party!” I added.

I led her to the middle of the pub and up to a big table. A lot of drunk ponies were gathered around, since someone had apparently accepted a drinking challenge from someone. He was standing on a table and drinking something really strong. Everyone were cheering the poor bastard forward. But he couldn’t really handle it. He threw up all over the floor before he could even finish, which pretty much drove most of them away. Some stayed and laughed their ass off, and I noticed some of them exchange coins. Bets I guess...

“Move!” I ordered loudly and shouted “Fus!” at the drunken pony in front of me. He fell off the table and hugged the ground as he made contact.

“Mmmm... cold floor.” he murmured and fell asleep.

Two other ponies, supposedly his friends, picked him up and walked away with him from the inn and out into the darkness. Then the bartender furiously walked over to the puke and cleaned it up with his magic. He gave me a disliking glare and frowned, telling me with his facial expression that he wasn’t afraid of throwing me out if necessary.

I climbed up to the table and cleared my voice before shouting loudly, but proudly; “Everyone! Can I have your... attention, please?”

The music stopped playing and everyone immediately focused on me. Even the ones that seemed too busy drinking themselves to death looked upon me and postponed their activity.

“My fellow... friends and allies and buddies! We got Ponyville back!” Everyone cheered and yelled in victory and success. “Now, drink and dance! Enjoy existing! You’ve earned it!” I added and gazed through the cheering crowd. I looked over to Spitfire and gave her a small smile. She had a huge impressed grin on her face. I also noticed that she was trying to seduce me by the way she was around me.

Whatever was in the drinks messed with our brains. I actually liked the way she tried to impress me. But I bet that she just had too much as well. We were both unavailable and we both knew our mates were a couple of feet away from us.

Or maybe she wasn’t trying anything on me. I’d just had too much. Anyways, it wasn’t working and I was glad because of that.

“Uh... Spittie? Wanna go over to our... our... uhh... friends?” I suggested before I’d do something stupid.

“Uhm, yeah, sure, lead on.” she replied both disappointed and relieved.

“And hey, could you go get us some more... booze? The bartender guy won’t give me more. And I... I just wanna have fun, man! I wanna... I need to dance. See you at the dance floor!”

“Sure, I can do that.” she replied without any hesitation. “I’ll meet ya there!”

I nodded to her before I turned around and headed to the dance floor where Dashie and Soarin’ were dancing next to each other.

I woke up with a terrible headache the next day in my bed. My arms were also numb for some reason; they felt very heavy. I didn’t remember anything about the night before, nor did I want to. I felt for the sunshine warming my body from the windows, and I felt for Dashie’s body pressed up to me. I smiled widely without opening my eyes. Although I did not remember anything about the night before, I did remember that it was fun. I had a good time, which was exactly what I needed.

I finally opened my eyes, only to find out that it may have been the biggest mistake I’d ever made. The reason for my numbness in my arms was because they’d been used as a pillow the whole night. I actually woke up not only next to Dashie, but also next to Spitfire... and Soarin’. Spitfire and Dashie were both lying on their stomachs and with their arms around my waist while Soarin’ was lying on his back and completely knocked out by our “feet”.

I almost jumped in panic. What the hell happened?! And did I really just have an... an orgy with them?! I didn’t know whether it was a good thing, or if it was a bad thing. Either way, I’d never want any of this in a normal state.

I continued looking around, pretty damn scared, and noticed something that confirmed that something definitely happened in my apartment last night. Dashie was choking on a pink gag ball. Her mane was a mess and she had definitely had it rough. There were bite marks on her neck and flank. I gagged and almost threw up when I tried to imagine how she got it. Spitfire was outfitted in a sexy tight torn latex leather suit and had a leather whip next to her mouth. The outfit was torn like it had been ripped by a predator or something. Her mane was wet in her sweat and actually brushed. Gotta admit that she looked much better with her mane brushed down.

Soarin’ was completely out of it and wetting the floor with his droolings. He seemed exhausted, and not without a reason...

I looked around again and couldn’t help but to smile widely. Not in appreciation, but in shock and disbelief. I simply couldn’t believe it, even though there was proof all around me. I laughed to myself and shook my head slightly. “Fuck...” I muttered and nodded a couple of times. This was all like a big joke to me. I was still pretty damn mad that it happened. I felt like I was going crazy.

I wanted to punch something, but instead, I nervously swallowed and tried my best to get them two off of me without waking them up. I needed some time alone.

I succeeded in being subtle and managed to get into the kitchen without alarming anyone. Once there, I sat down on the chair and held my hooves firmly to my head.

“Oh... my...fucking... god.” I slowly moaned, both because of the headache and also by the fact that my fun turned a little out of hand. “Please... I did not-- I refuse to believe that-- no... just no.” I whispered to myself, disappointed. “For fuck’s sake!” I cried out in a whisper. I didn’t want them to wake up and face them and its awkwardness. It would be best if I’d just go out for a walk or something and stay outside long enough until it’d be safe to return back home.

For a long time I stared at the table in front of me with both of my front hooves on my forehead. I was trying to wrap my head around this, but I couldn’t. The immense headache prevented me from doing anything.

It was so bad that it completely stole my focus from my surroundings, and that’s why I didn’t notice Dashie sit down next to me. She didn’t have the ball in her mouth anymore, but nor did she look panicked or anything. She acted like nothing had happened. Although, I did see it on her that she wasn’t happy. She was in physical discomfort; lightly bruised on some areas and she looked very weary.

Looking at her in that situation made me gnaw my teeth in disappointment. I really hoped I didn’t cause that. Anyhow, I really didn’t want to know how it happened.

I lost control of myself due to my madness and harshly took her hoof and pulled her out of our apartment. Once outside I furiously let go of her and frowned. “What is this?! What the hell happened?!” I shouted at her in utter rage, though not at her, and pointed at the door. “Why the fuck are they inside our apartment?!”

Dashie frowned at me in return, not approved of my sudden aggression. “What the hay do you mean? It was your idea!” she replied and poked harshly at my chest. “You wanted this!”

Her response was like a slap in the face, and my face twitched as if I had just received one. “Bah! My idea? I don’t think alcohol can change me this much! I’d never... fucking... screw Spitfire with her... her mate! This is... this is absurd!” I hissed as I turned around and banged my head to the wall in the hallway. “My fucking headache is destroying me, and I just woke up not only to my wife, but to two other ponies I don’t even know properly! What the hell is this? Some kind of High School party or something?! We’re adults for Christ’s sake! God... I have to get out of here.”

Rainbow Dash wasn’t in a good mood. She was both confused and angry at me for being so harsh due to my apparent sudden change of heart, since I supposedly asked for this last night. “Get over it! You think I wanted this?! I only accepted because I was under the influence of a lot of alcohol and because I wanted to make you feel happy! I said I was going to do whatever it took to take your mind off your worries, and I’m a mare of my words!”

I got a bit calmer and grabbed both her shoulders a bit powerfully. “You... know me. I’d never want this in a normal state.” I let go of her again and turned around with a sigh. I leaned on the wall next to me, covered my face in my right arm and groaned as the headache grew. “It couldn’t have been the alcohol alone that changed me. Someone must’ve put something in my drink. I’m sure of it.”

“I-I don’t know anything about that, Drake. I’m sorry, I really am. But I’m happy to know that you didn’t really want this.”

I feebly turned around again to face her. Her response calmed me down, but I was drained. All that rage that built in within me stole away my energy. She offered a hug I couldn’t decline.

But I still felt super bad for about what happened. I was disappointed in myself. It was my fault she had to go through that.

She stroke my mane smoothly and gave me a pat on my back with her other hoof. “Hey, it’s alright.”

“No, it’s not. You’re a mess. I don’t know what happened to you yesterday, but I can clearly see that you had it rough... I just... I don’t want to imagine Soarin’...” I was getting angry again when I thought about him, but I had no reason to stay mad. I bet I probably did some things to Spitfire too.

“Hey! Stop thinking about it! I... I don’t want to think about it either. Hey, look at me!” she tried to reassure me and turned my head again to her direction. “What’s in the past is in the past. We have to move on. What do you say we go for another tour around Cloudsdale, huh? It worked the last time.”

I breathed in and breathed out before swallowing and nodding a couple of times. “OK. Let me go get my helmet, I don’t want to leave without it. I’ll be right back.”

“Sure, I’ll wait here.” she answered in relief and managed to crack a small smile at me.

I was still a bit angry and disappointed by how the night had ended, but like Dashie said, what’s in the past is in the past. And it needs to stay there. I just had to be careful next time.

The stiff door finally opened after a couple of careful pushes. I had no intentions in waking them up, but I just wanted to go fetch my helmet. The air was certainly not fresh and the temperature was hot inside.

I used my wings to smoothly and quietly fly over to the left side of the bed where my helmet was located.

There it was, in all its glory, sitting on the table beside the bed, waiting to be picked up. I carefully picked it up and put it on. Somehow, I felt slightly better already.

I gazed through the room again and had to fight the urge to growl in anger. Both Spitfire and Soarin’ were snoring and they were both a sore sight. I just hope they’ll feel as bad as me and Dashie about that unfortunate incident when they’d wake up.

But one thought crossed my mind. Where the hell was Daring Do? She lived with us, well, rented with us. She got the guest room and she paid a one-time fee for it. She gave us an artifact more valuable than anything in the apartment. That one artifact, which was made of gold and graced with diamonds and shiny stones, was enough to feed a whole family for the rest of their days. She told us that that one was one of the hardest obtaining. It was a statue of some goddess; most likely Mara, and we were all pretty fascinated by it.

But she wasn’t visible anywhere, and I doubt she was in her room. She must’ve slept over at Twilight’s or something, so I stopped thinking about it.

As quietly as ever, I flew up to the door, but as soon as I was about to open the door, I heard a voice mutter: “Huh? Hello? Anybody?” Apparently, Spitfire had just woken up. No sign of Soarin’ gaining consciousness anytime soon though.

I lowered my head with my hoof still on the doorknob. “Fuck!” I whispered loudly to myself, but quietly enough. I awkwardly turned around and slowly walked over to the bed. I didn’t dare look into her eyes because I didn’t want to enhance the embarrassment.

I stood silently over the bed but neither of us said a word for what seemed like a long while. Although I avoided direct eye contact, I still noticed that she was analyzing my body with a longing. She was also drooling a bit. She definitely had something on her mind and that made me a bit scared. I took it as a hint that she was fully aware of our activity last night. I swallowed hard and decided to be the first one to break the silence. “Uhm...hi?”

“Heya, Drake. How are you? Already up and ready for more?” she asked flirtatiously. “Had fun last night, big boy?”

“Wait... what?!” I uttered speechless and utterly surprised. I slowly backed away with a lump in my throat. “You-- you...”

“Sshhh... I enjoyed it too. You’re so good at this. Clearly shows that you’re experienced. Say, if you ever wanna hook up again, just send out the word. I’ll keep you warm and satisfied whenever you want.”

“Wh- what... what...” There were a lot of questions on my mind I had to ask her, but nothing came out. The only word I could produce was “What”. All of a sudden I was stopped by the wall behind me. I wanted to get away from her, but I couldn’t because the wall was in the way. I would have just stepped aside, but my head was a mess at that moment and I couldn’t think straight.

She erotically stretched her back and limbs on the bed and stared at me the whole time. Her eyes told me she wanted something more. What? Didn’t she get enough last night?!

At last she stood up and slowly walked over to me. I was stunned and found myself starting to sweat a lot more. I had nowhere to go.

“W-What about Soarin’!” I managed to squeak. I was starting to pant in panic.

“Sshh. He doesn’t need to know.” she replied very attractively. Next up she stroke my cheek with her right front hoof. Then she removed my helmet and tossed it away from us. “Don’t be scared. I want you no harm.” She approached my face, but she didn’t kiss me. Our lips barely touched though. “I think you need to be rewarded for your performance last night, big boy. The way you screwed me last night cannot go unrewarded.” she whispered.

I felt like I was about to get a seizure. I was completely petrified. “P-Please. I.. I don’t want... Dashie... she’s the only one... I don’t--” before I could finish whatever I wanted to let her know, she kissed me to shut me up. She pushed me firmly against the wall and started to caress my body. Her leather outfit rubbed up to my body too and created a small grated sound.

I was defenseless. But despite everything that was going on, I noticed one thing that explained everything. Her pupils. They weren’t normal. She was still under the influence of that strong, weird drug or whatever it was that caused her inappropriate behavior. Probably the same thing I got last night. Wow... I’d never heard of such a drug before. It was probably only available here in Equestria. Its effects sure could last. Maybe she got a bigger dose of it than I did.

She was physically strong though and pulled me over to the bed and held me down. She pressed me against the mattress and continued her will against me; tasting my saliva and furtherly stroking and caressing my body. I was completely paralyzed. I couldn’t move, even though I wanted to push her away from me and just flee back into Dashie’s arms where everything was safe.

I could probably shout her away from me, but like I said, I wasn’t thinking straight and my headache didn’t help. I’ve got to admit that the way she licked my inner cheeks and the way she rubbed my pelvic area was pretty damn good; disturbingly satisfying. But that was just my body speaking. I had no urge to go further.

But I also had to admit that she was one of the cutest ponies I’d ever lay my eyes on. She was as cute as a kitten, if not cuter. There was just something about her smile, her eyes and her colors that charmed me. However, I was far from having any feelings for her.

But just when I pulled myself together and broke through my paralysis, she had already “handcuffed” me to the bed with the handcuffs we apparently used last night. I was stuck to the bed, and she wouldn’t stop “rewarding me” by stroking my body softly.

“R-Rainbow! Dashie! Help!” I managed to shout. It didn’t even take her two seconds to break up the door. Dashie gasped and frowned malevolently before launching herself in an incredible speed at Spitfire and taking her down to the ground.

“What the hell are you doing?!” she snapped at Spitfire, who didn’t seem surprised or startled at her sudden entrance.

“Well, well, well! Rainbow delicious Dash. Mmmm. Here to take pretty boy away from me, eh? I can understand that. He was amazing last night. But hey, since you’re here, what say you about you join in on the fun? You were amazing last night. You’re so good with your tongue. The way you licked me yesterday and the way you penetrated me with it while they watched was so good. I sure could use it now. And your moans when I flogged you… come here, girl, let me repay the favor.”

Dashie froze for a second and just stared at her lifelessly, but managed to shake her head and quickly backed away from her with a disgusted facial expression. “Drake? W-What the--”

I nervously sighed. “She’s still under the influence of that fucked up drug. She went absolutely crazy! Tied me up to the bed and started to--”

“I don’t need to know!” she interrupted me to shut me up. “Good to know that the drug is the responsible thing. It should wear off her soon enough. Let’s just get out of here before she comes back to herself.”

“You two are leaving? Aww... and I wanted to satisfy you both. Please, Drake, can’t you just screw me once before leaving? I really miss that big--”

Before she could finish off the sentence, Dashie smacked her as hard as she could, resulting in knocking her flat out. The noise of the impact echoed around the apartment, and I twitched a bit in a reaction. “Fuck. You.”

I couldn’t help but to chuckle a bit. The way she cursed after she knocked her down somehow amused me. “Whoa, Dashie. Take it easy.” I said in a giggle.

Rainbow Dash didn’t move. She simply stared at the knocked out Spitfire with both sympathy and anger. She looked up to Spitfire; always had. But she was still pissed off at her, even though she knew she wasn’t being herself.

“And yeah... I noticed a piece of paper on the kitchen table. Apparently it’s for you.” she muttered annoyingly.

“Eh... mind unlocking the handcuff-- I mean, the... hoofcuffs first?”

“Oh, right.” She walked over to the table next to the bed and picked up the key. After she had freed me from my mini prison, I jumped to my “feet” and headed to the kitchen.

I noticed a brown piece of paper lying on the table. It was folded, so I couldn’t see what it contained. Somehow I got a feeling that I didn’t want to open it. It looked... evil.

Maybe I was just being paranoid.

I hesitantly unfolded it and twitched a bit in reaction when I saw what it held. It contained simply a black hoof-- hoofprint with the words "We Know", scribed beneath. Nothing else.

“Wait.. what the hell is this? Some kind of prank?” I asked a bit worried. I didn’t know why, but that note scared the hell out of me. What did “they” know?

“Dashie? You know anything about this?” I asked as I walked over to her.

“Let me see.” she answered. I unfolded the paper again and revealed its contents to her. She simply shrugged and shook her head as a response. “Sorry, don’t know anything about it. Seems pretty weird to me though.”

“I know, right? I’m still worried about it. What do these people know? Why the secrecy?”

“I don’t know. Let’s just get the hell out of here.”

“I agree. Let’s go before Soarin’ wakes up and tries to rape us too.” I joked and chuckled lightly. Dashie tried to stay professional, but found it pretty funny too, so she decided to stop trying and let out a chuckle of her own.

I hesitantly picked up the helmet Spitfire tossed away and put it on, ready to take on the world once more.

I wanted to find out who drugged us; perhaps find out if I did something else I wouldn’t do in a normal state. But whoever drugged me was going to regret it. Nobody messes me up without a cost.

We arrived in Ponyville in no time, only to find out that there was a huge investigation going on. Apparently someone had died and the guards were already on the case. The funny thing was that nobody even cared. Whoever died was such a bitch anyways, according to the citizens. The hag who got killed died due to an arrow straight between the eyes. Her name was “Grelod the Kind” and was the headmistress of the “Honorhall Orphanage” in Ponyville. But she was far from being kind. She was just called that because it was ironic. She was quite the opposite in fact; harsh, bitchy and downright cruel. At least that’s what I could gather from the orphans I talked to. They also told me that “it” worked and that they were happy that it did. Someone had performed some kind of a ritual called “The Black Sacrament” to summon an assassin from “The Dark Brotherhood”.

Dashie and I decided to pay Twilight a little visit, and I was glad we did. We found out that Daring Do did indeed stay at her place for the night. I was also glad she made that decision. Otherwise she may had been a victim of that unwanted orgy the drug made possible. I couldn’t help but to shudder to the thought of it. Especially after seeing the effects the drug could have on one. Spitfire got completely out of character. I got to admit that she was kind of...attractive... in the uniform, but I was still shocked at her inappropriate actions towards me and Dashie. Sure she wasn’t being herself, but it still caught me off guard.

Fortunately, Twilight nor Daring were drugged. They were only wasted after that previous night. I was also glad on their behalf that their night didn’t end up as screwed up as it did with me and Dashie.

I asked Daring Do whether she wanted to tag along or not, and she accepted happily. She clearly enjoyed our company, as did we enjoy hers. But we didn’t leave yet. I had to ask Twilight some questions first.

“Twilight. Do you know anything about what happened last night?” I asked feeling like a detective. We were all rounded up in her kitchen by her table with small lights and some kind of weird drinks and refreshments in front of us. I’d never heard of such a drink before, but it was hot and tasted deliciously. It was an Equestrian version of a coffee. That’s the best I can describe it.

“No, sorry. After your small speech at the inn, you just disappeared. Nopony ever saw where you went or what you did. Some said you went outside to finish up some “unfinished business”. Others said you went home. I didn’t know what to believe. I was starting to get a bit worried too, but then I figured that you’re Dragonborn and you got powerful friends by your side. So I stopped worrying about it.”

“Hmm... do you have any idea who might have a clue about what I did last night?”

“My bet would be Pinkie Pie. She may have the information you need. After all, she was the one making sure that everyone had a good time.” Twilight explained with her eyes closed in confidence. She knew we’d get something out of her, but the fact was that I didn’t really feel like meeting up with Pinkie Pie since I already had an immense headache, and I had no intentions in increasing it further. I also didn’t feel comfortable enough to ask Twilight if she could cure it. It was my fault, and I was more than OK to face the consequences I deserved. I shouldn’t had drank so much anyways.

“One other thing before we leave. It’s another matter, really. But I’ve been wondering. Can you send objects through dimensions? Like... teleport stuff from here to, for example, Earth?”

Twilight hummed as she scratched her head with her right hoof. “Maybe... I think it may be possible. But nothing big. I think I could only transfer something as big as a book. Why are you asking?”

“I was just wondering...”

We bid our goodbyes before leaving her tree house and head straight to the bakery. I really didn’t look forward to meet her, but my curiosity led me to her anyways. I wanted-- no, I had to know what happened last night.

We positioned ourselves in front of the door, but as soon as I was about to knock, she opened it up and greeted us with a big smile. “Heya, friends! Had fun last night?” she asked loudly.

“Yeah, about that...”

“Drake. Did it work? Did you have super-duper fun time like Dash wanted you to have?” she asked again with the widest smile ever and patiently waited for an answer.

“Wait. What are you talking about?” I asked confused and looked at Rainbow who seemed to be as confused as I.

“Duh! The stuff I provided you last night! Dash told me she wanted you to have something special to take your mind off something that seemed to be bothering you. I told her I could take care of it and I did, didn’t I? I put the powder of ecstasy into two or three of your beers and you drank them all with best appetite! Well, all except for the one which you gave to Spitfire... but anyways, poof! Happy Drake was happy! From a scale to 1-10, what would you rate it, huh?”

“You... you were the one who drugged me?!” I shouted at her both angrily and surprised. But it didn’t surprise me either at the same time. I quickly turned my head to Dashie who seemed to be speechless. But she managed to speak anyways.

“Pinkie, y-you brat! I didn’t want him drugged! I wanted you to entertain him! Pull a few jokes, hire musicians! Make a party or something! Not mess his brain up with a... fucking drug that caused him to make unfortunate and fucked up decisions!”

“What’s that word, Dashie?” she asked, still smiling as always and ignored our worries. “I don’t believe I’ve ever heard that weird word. Well, except for Drake. I’ve heard him using it quite a lot. Especially when he’s upset or mad. But then, what isn’t weird about him?” she asked and giggled. “I mean, come on! He’s a dragon-pony!”

I simply stared at Pinkie. My right eye twitched automatically in annoyance and I had to fight the urge to attack her on sight. She was my friend, and she was a good friend. But what she did was too extreme and I couldn’t tolerate it.

“And Drake. Why did you do it?” she added. “Why did you kill poor old Grelod? She was a meanie, I get that. But did she deserve death?”

“What the hell are you-- are you accusing me of killing her?” I shouted at her again in a panic.

“Well, yeah, silly! I saw you speak to the colt who wanted her dead. Then you snuck up into the Orphanage with your bow and killed her dead. Accurate shot straight between the eyes! And considering that you were under the influence of a lot of alcohol, it was a pretty impressive accuracy! But if I were you, I’d be more concerned about The Dark Brotherhood. They don’t really like when someone steals their jobs.”

I tried digesting the sudden facts about me, but my mind didn’t seem to want to accept them, even though I believed Pinkie. I started to breathe faster and I couldn’t stay still.

“You alright?” Rainbow asked as she came up to me and smoothly brushed over my mane as an attempt of calming me down. “You weren’t aware of what you did last night. Don’t blame yourself over something you don’t even remember happening.”

“I-- I don’t..”

“Don’t worry, Drake! I’ll keep it a secret.” Pinkie Pie interrupted.

“Whatever.” I muttered not the happiest and turned around to leave her. I didn’t even say goodbye, a “thank you” for the clarification or anything, I just walked away. My companions didn’t say anything either and silently followed me.

“Goodbye, friends! Give me a “shout” if you ever want more of that stuff! Did you see what I did there? Did you?” she yelled after us, but we ignored her. I expected Dashie to respond to her, but she wouldn’t. Probably because she was angry Pinkie misunderstood her and drugged me without my approval.

I also noticed that Rainbow looked ashamed; embarrassed the way it turned out. She wanted me to have a good time, but she never asked for this. She knew how much I hated the fact the night ended and she realized that she was the source of that unfortunate disaster.

“Hey, don’t beat yourself up about it. I’m not angry at you.”

Rainbow quickly looked back at me with a look as if she was offended. “I’m not. And...”

“Yes?”

“And I’m sorry. I... I ruined everything. Turned your mind into something you’re not.”

“Hey! Didn’t you hear what I just said? Don’t beat yourself about it. And I’m not angry at you. I could never stay angry at you. You know this. Besides, you couldn’t had known. Now, let’s just forget about what happened and get to Fluttershy's. I want to hear her tale about her sudden courage and what drove her to lead the soldiers on the battlefield.”

“Oh, yes! I haven’t spoken to her since after Ponyville’s reclaim. In fact, I haven’t really gone outside the whole time you were out of it. Didn’t feel safe to leave “Alduin’s bane-to-be” knocked out by himself with no one to protect him.”

We set our course to Fluttershy’s house and used the time to get there to speak to one another. I personally couldn’t wait to get there. I still couldn’t figure out why she was chosen to lead the assault on the dragons, since she was afraid of her own shadow!

“About that. Can you tell me a bit more about the time I blacked out? When and where did it happen?”

“Well, after Twilight left us to check on Odahviing, you kind of started to feel dizzy. Your eyes started to roll without any reason and you started to babble nonsense. We tried to shake you out of it, but then you just completely collapsed to the ground as if you were dead. We all got very worried, especially me. But we found out that you were still alive, thank the gods. We rushed your unconscious body to Zecora, since we thought she might know a thing or two about how we could wake you up. She told us that there was definitely something that was behind your blackout, but she didn’t really know what it was. What she did know was that you had to sleep it off yourself. Only time would help you. Full of disappointment, Daring and I moved you over to Ponyville again and up to a lake not far away. We had to clean that blood off of your body. Well, I took care of that. Next up we aided each other carrying you up to Cloudsdale, and fortunately, you weren’t as heavy as I expected. In fact, you’re not heavy at all.”

“Wait, wait, wait...” I interrupted. “Clean my body?”

“Well, yeah. You were covered in blood! I couldn’t just put you in our bed all covered in that filth.”

“Just a suggestion, Drake.” interrupted Daring Do. “You really should start eating more, and I’m serious. You barely eat, and it’s starting to show. Just the fact that we had no problem carrying you up to Cloudsdale proves it.”

She was right. I hadn’t eaten much lately, and that was because I simply lacked the appetite. Although I’d been without a proper meal from Earth in a long while, I still craved for more than just vegetables and fruits. Even though some of their meals were a delicacy, my body wouldn’t accept pure vegetarianism. Not now, not ever. My tongue cried out for the taste of meat. Day by day I’d been eating less and less. And now it was indeed starting to show.

“I know... It’s just that... I feel like I still have a stomach of a human, ya know? There was some stuff on Earth I ate, filled with protein that isn’t available here. I crave for it every day, but I can’t get it, and it’s driving me crazy. I know it’s just food, but so long without it has pretty much made me lose my appetite for anything else.”

Rainbow shrugged and, fortunately, didn’t even bother asking me what it was. I wasn’t in the mood for making up a lie, and I had absolutely no intention of explaining to them that I ate meat. “I understand. But you have to face the fact that this is your new life. Try to get used to it.”

At last we came up to Fluttershy’s cozy house. The strong smell of the flowers and the plants filled my nose the closer we got. We knocked on her door and waited for gods knows how long before she finally showed that she was still alive by opening up for us.

“Friends!” she shouted silently as soon as she saw us. She wasn’t the same as when I saw her the last time. She wasn’t in the army clothes anymore, nor was her mane brushed in a ponytail. She was just the way I remembered her. I noticed her scar above her left eye though and it somehow made me feel sad. It looked just like someone had hurt her. But how she got it, I do not know.

If there was something she didn’t deserve, it was pain. In whatever form it’s in. Fluttershy was pure and kind. Someone hurts her, and they meet my wrath. “Come in!”

“Hey, Fluttershy!” Rainbow said excitedly as we entered her home. Fluttershy led us into the living room and bowed her head as she offered us a seat on her comfortable sofa. We all nodded back to her and got ourselves seated as she went into the kitchen to fetch us something to drink.

“Just water for me, thanks.” I called out to her and was answered with a “No problem”.

Daring Do got some kind of tea while Rainbow got more of that weird drink we got at Twilight’s.

At last Fluttershy sat down on a chair facing us and smiled warmly to us all. “It’s so good to see that you’re awake, Drake. But how have you all been?”

“I’m good, been better though.” I answered and rubbed my head because of the headache.

Daring Do and Rainbow agreed with me and showed it by nodding a couple of times. Rainbow also had some pains on her body since last night, after the rough treatment we put her through. It wasn’t anything serious, gods be praised, but she still felt its effects. I personally don’t remember what we did to her, nor did I want to know. Rainbow remembered all about it though, and preferred not to talk about it. Although, she said I shouldn’t worry about it. What we did wasn’t in the purpose of injuring her, and she agreed to it herself. Well, it was the alcohol speaking which allowed her to participate in the weirdness.

“However, we just stopped by to see how you’re doing and so on. I’m also a bit curious about your leadership on the Ponyville’s defense. Care to tell us about it? What made you so courageous to stand up and fight?” I asked pretty excitedly. Rainbow nodded quickly numerous times in agreement.

“Well...” she said and blushed a bit. “When I looked out my window and saw those horrifically ugly looking dragons flying around Ponyville I got filled with… anger. I don’t know... I felt like I had to do something, but... but I didn’t. I went, worried, to bed and it took me ages for my eyes just getting heavier. I woke up to terrifying, agonized screams from other ponies in the middle of the night and then I realized that what I feared was indeed coming true. I looked out the window above my bed and I was correct. The dragons had started their attack on Ponyville, and with you gone somewhere far away, I realized that there was no hope for us. But it filled me with anger once again. I couldn’t just sit by and do nothing, so I decided to take the matter into my own hooves. Nobody would harm any of my friends! And to get to the point, I just started ordering everyone to do this and to do that. I didn’t think anyone would take me seriously, but they all listened. We all worked very well together, and that shot my confidence up. And when I got reports from the princess via Spike that you guys were coming to help us, I couldn’t help but to smile widely. I knew you were coming, and that ignited a fire within me. A burning light. I announced it to everypony and that clearly made a difference. Everyone looks up to you, Drake. You’re the hope and spark that drove us forward. We just had to survive until you’d be here. Eventually, I was chosen to be their leader despite my lack of knowledge of military warfare. Celestia sent me my own personal, magical uniform that was enchanted with... courage. It would help me stand my ground at the most impossible situation. It would take away my feebleness and replace it with, as I said before, courage. But without it, I’m useless. I’m... I’m no use at all without it.” She finished.

“Well, that’s not true. You decided yourself to go out there and give those dragons hell. It was your heart that drove you into the battlefield. You don’t need that armor to feel assertive; you already have it imprinted in you. You just gotta let it out. Know what I mean?” I replied reassuringly and very impressed. Fluttershy was no leader but still managed it quite well. She acted like she knew everything about leadership; like she was experienced in that matter.

“Yeah, Fluttershy! You kicked flank! Seriously, I just met a whole new side of you I didn’t even know existed!” Dashie joined in on the conversation. “Like Drake said, you just gotta let it out. Once you’ve broken the little prison you’ve formed inside of you, you’ll be unstoppable!”

“I-- I don’t know...” Fluttershy uttered quietly and looked away shamefully. “It isn’t the matter of being assertive. It’s the matter of what had to be done. I couldn’t sit by as Ponyville burned.”

“But there was something in you that ignited that fire; a passion that drove you out there to help your people. You could’ve ran away. But instead you decided to stand and fight! And considering that you’re really not the action type, I gotta say I’m damn impressed.”

“Yeah, well... never again.” she squeaked and closed her eyes firmly.

We stayed at her place for a while and forgot all about time as we talked about our situations and what we were up to. In fact, we stayed at her place till evening. It wasn’t really intended, and I had previously decided to continue my journey up to the far north across the borders and into the land of the Northlings. However, my unexpected headache crushed that idea. Instead, I decided to hit the roads the day after.

After a rather decent day despite my headache, we finally left Fluttershy alone. She was getting tired and so were we, so we decided to hit the hay.

Fortunately, my headache was getting a little better after the peaceful environment and the freshness in the air. I just hoped it would completely vanish overnight.

But I was still nervous of getting back into my apartment. When we left it, both Soarin’ and Spitfire were knocked out in there. They were probably gone by now, but I still got a feeling they were waiting for our arrival to kill us for what we did. It was a ridiculous thought of course, but I was paranoid.

The apartment was dark and deadly silent as we opened the stiff door. The air was better than last time, but it was still a bit foul. Getting back into that from being in the cool air outside made the air unbreathable at first. I desperately wanted to open the windows, but I was still scared of what might be lurking in the dark. Soarin’ with a knife... Spitfire with a katana! I quickly shook my head when I realized how nonsensical my thoughts were.

We both hugged Daring Do again before she left us and into her little room she bought from us.

Dashie stood next to me as I inhaled the air before I turned the lights on. Much to my surprise, the place was cleaner than ever. Everything was in order and well made. The sheets on the bed had been changed and everything.

“Wow...” Dashie uttered. We both walked further into the apartment and allowed ourselves to admire their fine work. Why would they do such a thing for us? I imagined them being angry at me for being the source of that little mishap. Or perhaps they did it solely because they liked our little out of controlled activity last night, and wanted more. But I seriously doubted that.

I noticed a little formal note on the bed. It was sealed in an envelope and everything. I slowly walked over to it to pick it up and carefully unsealed it.

There was a letter with a picture attached to it with a paper clip. I separated the picture from the letter with my mouth and put it down on the bed so I could take a better look at it. It was a picture of us four, that is of me, Dashie, Soarin’ and Spitfire. We were located at the bar on that pic, but that moment took place before we got wasted. I was in the middle, kneeling down on one knee in front of the others. My arms rested on that knee, my head was tilted a bit to the left and I was squinting towards the camera without a smile. In my pony body, I was a mess of twisted limbs. I had this: “I am the boss and they are my muscles” look on my face. I looked like a freakin’ mafia boss, and somehow, it filled me with pride. Slap my helmet on and I can’t picture anyone fucking with me.

Soarin’ stood in the middle behind me. He had his arms wrapped around Spittie, which was by his right side, and Dashie which was by his left. They were all grinning and laughing. It clearly showed that we were having a good time. Well... it clearly showed they were having a good time. It seemed like I was all serious and nothing could ever make me smile. Which was false. There were a lot of things that made me laugh. I just prefer being all serious on photos; always have been that way. No idea why.

I remember when they took that picture. Twilight took it with her portable camera. I hadn’t really seen the outcome of it yet, but now that I did, I couldn’t help but to smirk like the idiot I was. It was a good picture, and I wanted to go with it to Twilight tomorrow morning to enchant it with that spell of preservation.

Next up I picked up the small note that came with it. I read:

“Dear Drake and Rainbow Dash.

By now, you clearly know the reason for this small letter. I know I was out of character yesterday. Soarin’ and I both want to bid our sincere apologies for what happened and for what we did. I also know that you and I were both drugged last night. I do not know who did it but I do know it led to unfortunate, inappropriate outcomes none of us really wanted. Although our night ended in a way we did not expect, everything that happened before that were golden moments for Soarin’ and I. We’re happy and thrilled we got to know you both even better, and we both sincerely hope our friendship doesn’t die here.

P.S I want you to deliver a message to Rainbow Dash for me that there is no meetup tomorrow. We’ve decided to take a week off to get over things.

Peace and love forever;

Soarin’ and Spitfire.”

I was a bit moved by the letter they wrote. They took their time writing this beautiful message for us, cleaned our apartment and stated that they enjoyed our company. I was happy they liked us. I liked them too. I surely would never allow our friendship to die because of what happened. I was ready to bury that down and keep on going.

“Hey, Dashie. Come on over here, take a look at this.” I whispered over to her because I always had the feeling I’d disturb Daring Do, even though the walls in the apartment were solid. We didn’t have to whisper to each other. But I still liked the quietness. Especially now that my head felt like it was on fire. The faster my heart beat, the worse my headache got. I could feel for the blood pump into my brain at the same rhythm as my heartbeat and it was uncomfortable. But nothing I haven’t faced before.

The first thing she did when we got into our apartment was looking for something. She seemed a bit nervous at first, but finally when she found the object at the right place, she exhaled the air in relief. She didn’t want to tell me what it was though, but I got a glimpse at it and couldn’t see better than it was the picture of me. The picture I found when I was sunk deep into my depression. It disturbed me. Why the secrecy? Why didn’t she want me to find out about it?

“Yeah?” she shouted out in startle, quickly closed the drawer behind her and leaned towards it so I couldn’t gain access to it.

“Uhh... they wrote us a letter. Come on over here and take a look.” I responded suspiciously. “And what are you hiding in there?”

Her eyes shrinked to dots. “M-Me? Hiding something from you? I’m not hiding anything from you! H-How could you even suggest such a thing?” she asked nervously.

The way she got all worked up made me lose interest in teasing her. I was going to notify her that I had already seen that picture of me, but decided to drop it for now to make her feel a bit more relieved. The explanation for her subtlety around that picture had to be postponed for a more appropriate time. Maybe when she was ready she could tell me all about what her secrecy was about.

I just sat down on the sofa while she read over the note. I looked up to the ceiling and closed my eyes; trying to concentrate. Tried to breathe lighter in a small hoped attempt of getting rid of my unbearable discomfort in my head. I would take medicine, but we had none. I was starting to regret not informing Twilight about it...

“Wow. That’s cute of them. And that picture! So awesome. I’ll frame it and put it next to the other photos tomorrow.” she said and walked over behind me and the couch. I stretched my neck and looked up at her. “But I’m going to sleep. G’night.” she added and bowed down to give me a small kiss on my forehead. I answered by grabbing her head gently and did the same to her.

“G’night.” I whispered back. “I’m not going to sleep just yet. There’s this thing I gotta do first. Don’t wake up for me.”

“Suit yourself.” she replied and gave me a warm smile before turning around. She got under the blankets and closed her eyes with a wide smile as she tried to sleep. I just watched her for some time with my thoughts out of this world. It didn’t take Rainbow long to fall asleep, and soon she started to snore a bit, implying that she was out of it.

I carefully stood up and walked over to my desktop which was located at the front of the big windows. It was the desktop that contained all my papers regarding my work. My plans, maps, all our things we needed for our voyages and everything related to being a Dragonborn. I sat down on a chair and picked up a small quill and a blank paper. I knew there was a chance I may lose my life when this was all over. But somehow, I had this urge to write down my life story and ask Twilight whether she could make a copy and perhaps send one to Earth. Whoever finds it could choose whether to believe me or not.

I gulped before I put the quill into my mouth and wrote:

Where do I begin?

I guess I’ll have to start off by introducing myself. My name is Drake, and I’m just a normal 22 year old guy... wait, normal isn’t right. In fact, I’m far from being normal...

I woke up, not lying in a bed like I expected, but lying on the cold floor. I immediately knew that I wasn’t at home anymore. I was cold, and I had no idea where I was.

I quickly jumped to my feet and looked around like my life was at stake. I noticed three other ponies in front of me on their knees with bags over their heads. However, they had their hooves tied up so they couldn’t go anywhere. They were all conscious judging by their murmurs and moanings.

I was located in an abandoned shack. It was deserted and creepy, and like I said, cold.

“Sleep well?” a calmed, slow female voice asked me coming from behind me. I quickly turned around to see a mare in a tight red and black leather outfit sitting on an emptied bookshelf. There were candles at the end of that bookshelf. Her outfit was made from fine material, I could see by miles. She also had a bandana to cover her snout, and a black hoodie. Tailored to fit the outfit. So the only thing I could see were her brown eyes. There was another thing I noticed. A black hoof on the middle of the uniform. I immediately recognized it. The same hoof was on the piece of paper I received yesterday. The note with the “We know” scribbled beneath.

“What? Where am I? Who are you?” I asked confused and furtherly analyzed her uniform. She looked like an assassin of some kind.

“Does it matter? You’re warm, dry and still very much alive. That’s more than could be said for old Grelod, hmm?” she answered.

“I’m not exactly warm... but you know about that?” I asked her confusedly. Was I dreaming again? Did I perhaps black out again and am having another insight?

“Half of Equestria knows. An old hag gets butchered in her own orphanage? Things like that tend to get around. But oh! Don’t misunderstand. I’m not criticizing. It was a good kill. Old crone had it coming and you saved a bunch of orphans from their miseries.”

“But... it only happened a day or two ago! No way it could spread so quickly!”

“Welcome to Equestria.” she answered and chuckled.

“Right...”

“Anyways, there is a slight.... problem.”

“I don’t think I like where this is going. Would you please kindly release me? I gotta get back home. And where’s Rainbow Dash? If you so much as--”

“All in good time. Let me explain first.” she interrupted, still as calm as ever. “You see, that little Aretino colt was looking for The Dark Brotherhood; for me and my associates. Old Grelod was by all rights, a Dark Brotherhood contract. A kill... that you stole. A kill you must repay.” she clarified. Not angry, nor disappointed. But rather interested.

“Wait, wait, wait... you want me to murder someone else?”

“Well now. Funny you should ask. If you turn around, you’ll notice my guests. I’ve collected them from... well... that’s not really important. The here and now. That’s what matters. You see, there is a contract out on one of them. And that person can’t leave this room alive, I’m afraid. But.. oh... which one?” she asked in an obvious bluff. She knew who it was. But I saw where this was going and I didn’t like it. Not one bit. “Go on. See if you can figure it out. Make your choice. Make your kill. I just want to observe... and admire.”

I gulped. But I had nowhere to go. The house was locked tight, and I couldn’t shout my way out of there. If I’d burn the house down, the three victims behind me would surely die anyways. But I didn’t want to kill any of them.

“I’ll have no part of this insanity! Now, let me go!”

“Now, that is a shame.” she answered a bit harsher. “But what you fail to realize is that you involved yourself in this “insanity”. When you took Grelod’s life, you made your choice! Now it’s time to face your consequences of your actions. You don’t leave this shack until someone dies!”

I tried muttering something in return but I couldn’t. She had a point. I may have been drunk when I killed her, but that doesn’t mean anything. I hated to face the fact, but I had to go her way. I had to find out who the contract was set out on.

I nodded to her in defeat and a bit disapproved. I saw her cheeks move upwards and that told me she was smiling behind her mask.

I turned around and walked over to the three captives which were kneeling before me with their bags on their heads and their hooves tied behind their backs.

There were all kinds of weapons on the table next to them. A sword, an ax, a bow, a dagger. I couldn’t burn my victim with my voice since the shack was made of wood, so I decided to pick up the bow. That way, I wouldn’t have to physically touch the victim.

I walked over to the first person, but as soon as I wanted to ask him who he was he shouted out through the executioner bag: “Please, don’t kill me! I didn’t do anything wrong. This is a mistake! I-I’m just a poor single father looking out for my children. I’ve lost everything: my lovely wife, my house, my job. I had to steal so they wouldn’t starve!”

“It’s alright.” I whispered to him kindly. “I’m not gonna kill you.” I added and gave him a small pat on his shoulder. He twitched a bit in a reaction. I noticed how hard he was breathing. How scared he was of his life. He could be lying, for all I know, but if he was indeed telling the truth, I couldn’t kill him. I don’t want to be the responsible one for killing a father trying everything he could to look out for his children.

I walked up to the next victim, which was supposedly an old mare judging by the physical appearance. She shouted over to me “Get these things off of me!”

“Who are you?” I asked calmly in return.

“None of your damn business who I am! If you want to kill me, just do it already! With Mara as my witness, if I didn’t have this hood on right now I would spit right in your face!”

“Would someone pay to have you killed?” I ignored and asked again calmly as I knelt beside her.

“What kind of question is that?”

“It’s alright. Just tell me what I need to know. It might save your life.” I reassured her mildly. I noticed that she calmed down a bit with my response.

“I... I don’t know.” she replied. “I don’t think so.”

I nodded to myself and walked over to the third and last victim.

“Whoever this is, clearly this has been a misunderstanding. But no worries. I’m not scared. This is not the first time I’ve been bagged and dragged.”

“Who are you?”

“Ah. Vasha, at your service. Have you not heard of me? Perhaps I will help my people carve a name in your corpse as a reminder.” he said, full of self-confidence. He was obviously not from Equestria. He had a whole different accent and everything. I didn’t see how he looked, but he was definitely not from around here.

“Would someone pay to have you killed?” I asked again patiently.

“Me? Hah! Are you serious?” he asked a bit offended. His cockiness and disrespect towards me really got on my nerves. I was getting impatient and a bit angry at him.

“Answer me, or I’ll paint this room with your blood!” I shouted at him and made a sound with my bow by stretching the strings, giving him a hint that I was ready to kill him.

“Fool! Don’t you get it? I live in the shadow of death every day. If one of my enemies would not pay to have me killed I’d take it as a personal insult! Now, let me go or my people will find you, peel your skin off and leave your body to rot!”

I left him without saying another word and looked at the three persons in front of me. I had no idea who the contract was set out on, but I couldn’t imagine the first victim being the one. I felt he was speaking the truth. The shock, the power in his voice convinced me. However, I had a feeling the third one was the one. He was disrespectful, cocky and clearly a douchebag. I didn’t have it in me in killing that old woman anyways. She was scared of her life, and angry that her life was placed in my hooves. I understood that.

I took place in front of the third victim and without even notifying him, I loaded the bow and buried an arrow deep into his skull. The agonizing screams and the terrified yells from the other two filled the abandoned shack as I stared at the assassin who was sitting proudly and very approved on the bookshelf. I still felt incredibly bad for what I did and I couldn’t prevent throwing up. I let it all out on the floor and fell to my knees. But I forced myself to immediately stand up again. Then I turned around and walked over to the assassin.

“I see you chose number three.”

“So who was it? Who had the contract?”

“Ohoho, no no no.” she giggled. “Don’t you understand? Guilt, innocence, right and wrong: irrelevant. What matters is that I ordered you to kill someone, and you obeyed.”

“So... I’m free to go?” I asked exhaustively.

“Of course. And you repaid your debt in full. Here’s the key to the shack.” she said and tossed it over to me. I caught it with my mouth. “But why stop here? I say we take our relationship to the next level. I would like to officially extend to you an invitation to join my family; The Dark Brotherhood. In the South-West region of Equestria, in the Pine Forest, you’ll find the entrance to our sanctuary. It’s just beneath the road. Hidden from view. When questioned by the black door, answer with the correct passphrase: “Silence, my brother.” Then you’re in and your new life begins. I’ll see you at home.”

“No thanks. I want no part in your organization.” I yelled over to her coldly with a frown. “You made me execute someone I didn’t even know. That’s not the way I roll.”

“That’s a shame. You have a skill for that sort of thing.” she answered disappointed. “Anyways. You know where you can find us if you change your mind.”

“And where is Rainbow Dash?” I shouted again nervously.

“She’s safe at your home. We had no reason to abduct her. She wasn’t the one poking her head in our business.”

I sighed in relief. “And you’ll let the others go, right?”

“Of course. There is no need to kill them. They are free to go.”

I nodded once to her. “Good. And do not interfere with my life again, or else...” I threatened and squinted my angry eyes at her.

Then I unlocked the door with the key she gave me and didn’t even hesitate before I left that cold place with a frown on my face and into the misty darkness.

Once outside, I looked around cluelessly. I didn’t know where I was, and I had no map or a compass to guide me. “Perfect.” I muttered to myself in a sarcasm. I was surrounded by trees. Lots of trees.

It was also very dark, so I couldn’t see very well. But I swear I could see two red dots between two trees. Blinking...

“Who goes there?” I asked, but I wasn’t scared. I knew someone was hiding there, it just startled me a bit to see those red dots which resembled evil eyes. Maybe that was the case...

A coal black pony; darker than the darkness itself stepped forward and revealed to me what those red dots were. They were his eyes. Not like mine, but his whole eye was red, and it was bright. Like some kind of led light. Smoke and shadow reeked around him, and he was perhaps the most terrifying pony I’d ever seen. His mane was coal black as well. I tried to check out his cutie mark, but it was too dark.

“Dragonborn.” he whispered with a icy voice.

“Who are you? What are you?” I asked both disturbingly and in awe.

“I’ve been called Shadowmere by my brothers. I guess that ought to do. I, for one, welcome our newest addition to the family. Welcome, my brother.” he said and I couldn’t make out whether he was happy or not. He seemed emotionless.

I guess he was from The Dark Brotherhood then. After all, he was wearing the same outfit as that mare inside. I didn’t dare explaining to him that I had declined her invitation, so I just nodded quickly a couple of times with a fake smile.

“We’ll see you at home, brother. I can’t wait to hunt with you one day. I’ve seen you at work. You have skills.”

“You’re not the first one to point that out. Thanks.” I replied and couldn’t help but to stare deep at his red eyes. Those bright, red eyes.

He noticed it, but he didn’t do anything about it. He just frowned a bit. “Go east if you want to go back to your home. Just head out that way, and you’ll be back to Cloudsdale for your breakfast.” he added and chuckled slowly.

“Yeah, well... I think I’m going to bed as soon as I come home. I hope you don’t mind, but what were you doing in cover? Why were you hiding?”

“I wasn’t hiding. I was guarding the place until you’d done your job. You took your sweet time, by the way.”

I swallowed. “I see. Well, it was nice to meet you. I think I should get going now.”

I hoped never to see those people again. Although they seemed pretty nice, I didn’t want anything to do with their organization.

The shadowy person in front of me bowed his head for me and closed his eyes. “Farewell, Dragonborn. It was an honor meeting you face to face. And sorry about the abduction. It wasn’t anything personal. We just needed to sort out this mess.”

I bowed my head back to him as my response, but didn’t respond him with words. Then I quickly snapped open my wings and flew up into the air. I could see Cloudsdale from afar, and fortunately, it didn’t seem very far away. Perhaps thirty minutes of flight. With a small smirk, I started my small journey.

Well, it took forty minutes. But I was finally home. It was still dark outside and the city was still sleeping, which was relieving. I could go back to sleep and act like nothing had happened.

Rainbow Dash was still sleeping, but she had taken over the bed; lying horizontally. I didn’t bother gently pushing her back into the original sleeping position, so I lay down on the bed next to her, also horizontally, and closed my eyes.

My life was a big fuckup. After everything that happened, I stated to myself that I’d never get drunk again. However, I felt like the headache had slightly reduced. The freshness in the air cured the most of it.

My fatigue was starting to kick in. One big yawn later, and I fell asleep.

I needed as much rest as I could, because tomorrow, I planned on heading out on another journey. This time, out of Equestria and into the land above; into the land of the Northlings.

I just hoped they’d listen to reason and help us out on the war despite their hostility towards us. Because without their help, we might already consider our race extinct. Everything depended on my diplomacy. Equestria was at stake. But I tend to get them on our side... one way or the other. Next Chapter: Chapter 12: An Unexpected Misconception in Elyntis Estimated time remaining: 4 Hours, 48 Minutes