The bushes shook a bit under the cover of the night. Two pair of eyes appeared from small holes in the corona of of the shrub. They carefully scanned the desolate road, which lead to the only gate of the capital. It was massive, made out of heavy wood and reinforced with a metal grate. In the center there was the scull of the first defeated dragon by the founder of the clan. A line split the white cranium in two equal halves. The long spikes from the forehead were covered in gold. Lanterns were place in the eye sockets to illuminate everything in front of the gate.

"The Blood Portal. Quite the sight. It speaks of might and warns everypony not to mess with the ninjas behind the wood and bones." Master Triple admired. "I love the attitude of the Dragon Claw ponies, too bad we are on opposite sides."

"The walls are higher than what I remember. Our hooks won't help us climb it, on top of that our chances to get inside without being noticed by the many guards on those towers are quite slim." Blue Circle noted. He turned to the rest of the ninjas, who were waiting in ready. They were hidden behind rocks, bushes or trees. No sound was coming from this elite group of assassins, as if they weren't there at all. "We have six pegasi, twelve earth ponies and five unicorns. We won't be able to teleport inside because of the flashes of the spells, which will alert every guard in the capital. And using the pegasi as transports would be to slow and this method also has a big chance to fail, due to the noise of the flapping of the wings."

"So many guards, I wonder if they were alerted to our arrival?" Triple sat on the grass. The pink unicorn looked confused. "No, there is no way they could know that we are here. I'd have sensed their spies a mile away, if there had been any."

"We do not have time to think about it. We'll need to focus at the current problem. We can't sneak past them, so why not create a diversion. They'll send much of their force to chase a rabbit, while the real snake is eating their chicks."

"If his forces are united, separate them, as one ancient general said. Might work but it means that we are splitting our smaller group, which I'm not a big fan of. Maybe we can appear in the least expected place?"

Blue turned to the elder. Their eyes met and suddenly the shadow leader understood his plan.

"Controversial, but I like the idea. Let's make it happen." the white ninja stood, thus creating some noise in the bush. He gave a sign and the four pegasi approached him. "Here is the plan: we need the gate opened, so two of you fly to the left tower and the other two to the right. Show authority, scare those guards a little. They shouldn't be elite ninjas, so if you look tough enough, they'll obey your orders. Understood?"

"Yes, sir." the purple pegasus answered.

"Wait, what?! Are you sending us on a suicide mission?" the young white pony stepped forward. "Four of us against so many guards, we'll be overrun in the moment we land on the wall."

"No pony is sacrificing you. Master Triple will make sure that you'll see the real fight." Circle moved into the personal space of the pegasus. It was close enough to see the imitation of insanity in his blue eyes. "It's his plan, so what can go wrong?"

The ninja from Diamond Shuriken felt uncomfortable and was unable to look him in the eye.

"I understand."

"Good. I'm confident in all of you to do your task flawlessly. Wait for the signal from Triple, then force the guards to open the gates. Now, get flying!"

The pegasi spread their wings and quickly disappeared behind the trees' dark coronas. They silently ascended to the clouds. The winged ponies were fortunate to have the moon blocked by the messengers of war or they'd have been spotted the moment they left the cover of the forest. The fliers hid inside them and waited for the signal. From their position the capital wall seemed like a bright yellow line, on which small dots synchronously moved.  

"They are probably ready. Let's make our move!" Blue attempted to leave the bush but was prevented from doing so.

"I alone will go." Triple said. "If they see you, the guards will probably attack you without hesitation. After the war you've become a symbol of hatred among the dragon warriors."

"You think that they still remember me?"

"How could they forget. You've struck so much fear and hate in their hearts that for generations to come your name will be the synonym of death. Better hide yourself among our fighters. Do not try to appear mighty, just a little average and we'll pass through the gates without any incidents."

It didn't take him long, until he agreed. Circle went behind and nodded that he was ready. The pink old-timer smiled.

"Wish me luck!"

Then his figure disappeared in the bushes. He was on dusty road, which saw so many hooves, marching to their deaths. It was called the Golden Tail, though not many saw fortune at the end. Triple turned to the big gate and started walking. The darkness slowly gave path to the bright light, that came from the torches on the wall. Soon one of the guards saw him.

"Hold right there! Who is approaching the gate!?" the guard shouted and thus the unicorn received more and more attention from the ponies above. Triple stopped just in front of the light zone. Most of his body was still in the shadow of the night. He looked up without making unnecessary movement.

"Who are you young guardian?"

"Do not mock me! Answer the question or get out of here!" the short-tempered white earth pony yelled. He was wearing a black costume with red stripes. A short blade was sticking out from the scabbard on his back. To protect his head, the guard had put a doughboy helmet, which was very common among the dragon ponies. "Do you know where you are?"

"In front of your glorious gate, great gatekeeper." he answered calmly. "I only wish to enter your magnificent city to find shelter for the night."

"What is this? A traveler without a home? Your words may be kind but as far as I know they may be poisonous! Final warning, tell us who you are or pay the consequences!"

The unicorn smirked.

"My humble name is Master Triple Spirit."

That was the signal, which unleashed the four pegasi from the black clouds. They swiftly approached the shocked guards like birds of prey. Everypony on the isle knew, who this master was. His name was spoken only with respect and fear of the power he possessed. Some of the Dragon Claw ponies turned to the unexpected guests. All of them bowed, when they saw the famous insignia on their right shoulders. The pegasi stood like gods among unworthy creatures. None opposed their might and legitimacy.

The guard that had the pleasure to shout at their leader was now sweating like after a long gallop. His body was shaking, he looked quite pathetic.

"We are the Guardians of the Portal! The news of our arrival must not be delivered to the leader or spread among the population!"

"Yes, our lords!" the ponies simultaneously answered, while looking at the cold stones under their feet.

"We demand the gate to be opened at once!" the young white pegasus ordered.

"Yes, my lord!" the shaking watcher bowed again and then turned to the guards on the ground. "Open the gates!"

The six strong earth ponies began pushing the big wooden wheel. The sound of the opening of the massive door pierced the calm night. The guards from the nearby section of the wall were puzzled of what was happening. They sent a few to investigate the matter. Very quickly the news of the unexpected arrival of the Neutral ponies spread throughout the ranks on the wall. Despite that the information did not fall on the ears of the general population or the leader.

Triple kept smiling like a conqueror at the opening of the large gate. It was a sight to behold. As if the chest of an enormous beast opened to show its strong heart. When the two halves of the skull stared at each other, he lifted up his left leg. Then from the shadows twenty ninjas appeared. They marched in two perfectly straight columns. They were showing off perfect discipline, power that could not be surpassed by the low-ranking guards and greatness, which was backed by the years of experience of these assassins.

The master waited until they arrived and then together entered through the wide opened gate. A few guards came to greet them. The black ninjas stood in a line. When Triple stepped inside the capital, they simultaneously bowed. "So far, so good." the unicorn thought. Blue Circle was hiding among the others and tried not to be conspicuous.

"Master Triple, welcome to Draconicus." the chief of the guards greeted. He was a veteran from the war, who survived with most of his sanity intact. His cloths were painted in pink, indicating his mid rank in the army. "We are honored to have your presence here. Would you tell us the purpose of your visit, sire?"

"Yes, there are rumors about a certain group of ponies, who do not respect the sacred laws and traditions. We've come here to investigate the matter and set those faulty individuals to the right path."

The chief looked questioningly at the pink unicorn. At the same time the elite ninjas encircled the guards.

"We have not heard of such rumors. Should we notify the leader?"

"No, we can not trust anypony here to deliver the message to Young Hair and also I do not want to trouble him with this small matter." Triple moved closer to the chief and stood loftily in front of his small black eyes. "No pony should know that we are here. If the information spreads, I'll have you accountable and the punishment is only death, do you understand me?"

The chief of the guards bowed down on his knees and swore:

"I'll not fail you, Master. You are only but shadows and ghosts, who are passing through our capital."

Triple nodded.

"Good. Two more things before we begin our investigation: we'd want to be left alone and not followed. This matter is for the Guardians of the Portal only, so do not come to help us. And last, I'd want to know why there are so many guards on the walls. Are you expecting an attack?"

"Yes, my lord. Four days ago we received an anonymous message, which warned us about arsonists in the vicinity of the city. Since then we are on high alert. The terrorist group consists of warriors from all clans and is notorious for the several arsons in the countryside."

"Renegades? Hm, maybe I should meet these ponies." Circle thought.

"Terrorism must not be tolerated. If they choose to spread their dirty flames tonight, we will immediately help you to deal with them."

"Thank you, Master. They'll regret the mistake of challenging us. All of them will be annihilated to the last hoof." the chief spoke with so much glory, that Triple wanted to hit him. The master was not fond of killing others. No pony deserved to die because of his crimes. There had to be more civilized approach, when dealing with such problems 'cause killing only leads to more killing. He taught his philosophy of no killing and peace to the other Guardians and for the most part it was accepted but it never saw the light outside of his circle.

"You have your orders, now it's time to move on." Triple turned to his comrades and made a signal to spread out. The ninjas quickly disappeared in the shadows. They did that in a very quiet manner and lived up to their names. Like specters, they headed to the center, a hill, on top of which stood the leader's palace. It was the tallest structure, a tower that aimed for the heavens like an arrow. It's roof was covered by green tiles. On each angle golden serpents made faces at the four corners of the world. Yellow light was coming from the many windows. Only a small wall isolated the Great Home from the rest of the capital. This would be too easy, if there weren't the leader's personal guards, who were only loyal to him.

Triple was last to embrace the deep shades of this civilized jungle. His eyes showed absolute determination, his gait was of a pony, who had a meeting with destiny. The guards kept looking at their hazy figures. They could feel that something big was to come. The chief made a sign with his hoof and the six muscled ponies began pushing the wheel again. There was no other sound except from the closing doors.

Ghosts were roaming in the sleeping capital. Invisible for the naked eye. They were here for only one thing: to punish the criminal. Everything seemed so innocent in the lonely streets. The white houses carefully watched them move, though they do not have mouths to tell later on, who was coming that night. A cat ceased its game with the mouse and ran far away because it knew that death was marching behind them.

The night patrols never noticed their presence and continued on their predetermined paths. Their approach was as smooth as silk. When the palace's walls were in front of them, the ninjas stopped and looked around. No guards were on sight, which was a little worrisome.

"Do we use the same strategy or do we sneak?" Circle whispered.

"I do not believe that the same trick will work here. These are his personal guards, who are too loyal to the leader. If I were him, I'd do the same."

"What do you mean?" Blue turned to the old pony. He had a thoughtful look.

"If I was to do the same crimes as he, then I'd not tell everypony about them, only to the selected few, who will not question me and are loyal enough not to betray me. So, that means the ninjas inside will show resistance and probably force us out. It may also come to bloodshed, but we are too few for a frontal confrontation. In this case, we need to take the stealth approach, use minimum lethal force only where it is needed and quickly capture the leader. If we do this, then everypony under his command will surrender to us."

"My kind of plan." Circle looked at the short red wall on the other side of the street. How easy it was to just jump it over. The real problem was once they get inside, they'll probably be met by a welcoming committee. "How many guards you sense in the courtyard?"

"It's difficult to say, when we are surrounded by so many bodies. We need to get near the wall for me to find out."

"Alright then." Blue waved ahead and the ninjas quickly began crossing the street. In just five seconds everypony successfully made it to the other side.

"Now?"

"I sense exactly twenty. Six of them are positioned on key areas, the rest are making clockwise circles around the palace on fixed intervals of thirty seconds. At this moment there is only one earth pony, who is patrolling nearby. Two are standing in front of the main entrance. The rest are not near. This would be ideal to sneak in."

Triple lifted up his right hoof and one of the pegasi jumped in the air. He hovered high enough to look at the surrounding behind the wall. There were several chaenomeles on a flat grassy field, a shrubbery on the left and two trees on the right. There was not enough cover for the twenty five ponies, so only half could get inside. The lonely guard continued on his path, unaware of the intruders. One by one, they entered inside the court and carefully concealed.

The next patrol consisted of three ponies and they seemed more attentive than the previous one. The guard who lead them was holding a torch in his mouth. The light illuminated the cold grass and the near bushes. They stopped and looked around. They didn't find anything unusual in the garden, only shadows and pretty flowers. The three ninjas carried on. Triple sensed that there was a slight delay in the next group, which would give them a perfect window to get inside the palace.

He gave the sign and suddenly this quite place enlivened. Dark figures moved next to the palace's wall. The other half got inside and joined with the others. Above them there was a big window, which was closed. The same pegasus from early peeped. He saw the palace's kitchen. It was dark and empty, which would suit them very well.

The pegasus gave the sign and Circle went in his shadow form. Many tentacles came out of his back, waving like separate beings. Their time was melting too fast, so they had to hurry. A black snake was sent inside a little crevice below the window. He managed to get it on the other side and with it, Blue opened the casement. The yellow pegasus carefully pushed it and then went in the kitchen. The rest followed him one by one. They were doing it as fast as possible, no pony slowed down the queue.

The steps of the approaching guards could be heard. Time was not smiling on them and they just got only one half inside the stone structure. Circle prepared his tentacles to strike the patrol. When the last ninja was in, he quickly jumped inside and the window was immediately closed. The ponies outside didn't notice anything suspicious and continued forward.

Everypony had ducked. Only when the guards moved on, they unfroze and silently took positions.

"Like a ninja boss!" the taller brother bragged.

"Shush! You idiot! You are going to screw us up!" the shorter one hit him in the head.

Circle and Triple went to the only door that lead to a long hallway. Both put an ear and listened. It was too quiet for their liking.

"How many you can sense in the palace?"

"A lot. Thirty one. Most of them are in the mess hall. Seven are on the upper floors and oddly there are only two near his excellence's room."

Circle looked a little worried.

"Could this be a trap? It's long past dinner time."

"It could be. However, there is no way to know. I'll constantly check their movement."

Out of a sudden they heard steps. Somepony was coming and the two ninjas backed away, taking positions on the two sides of the door. The handle moved, everypony prepared. It was opened with slight squeak. Bright light invaded the kitchen. A unicorn, dressed in purple silk cloths was standing at the entrance. She was holding a small lamp. Her well kept black mane covered the right half of her lovely face. The white mare entered in the dark. It was too late, when she saw the band of ninjas. The door behind her was quickly shut and tentacles immobilized her. The maidservant couldn't scream for help. She dropped the lamp. One of the Guardians managed to grab it before it touched the floor. The young beauty was so scared that she was about to lose her mind.

"You sensed her, right?" Circle turned to Triple, who looked like he had a sudden headache.

"I should have." he shook head. "Probably its the interference from the many ponies in the capital."

"You don't seem well, maybe you should wait somewhere safe until we have captured him."

The pink unicorn stood mightily, showing no weaknesses.

"I'm coming with you no matter what. I do not need special treatment because of my years. Knock her out and let's continue!"

Circle didn't like that but what choice did he have. One of the tentacle formed into a hammer and then hit her in the head. She immediately lost consciousness. He quietly put her on the ground and turned to the door.

"There are eight floors. The leader's quarters are on the seventh. We'll need to defend the staircase at the sixth and the eight from an air assault." Triple said. "If things get out of hoof and have to retreat, we'll use the balconies of the last floor. The pegasi will have to connect the roof with the nearby buildings. Use all of our ropes. We must do it quick and without mistakes. Got it?"

Everypony nodded.

"Let's pay his majesty a visit." Circle opened the door and went inside a vast corridor. The rest followed his lead.

At the leader's chamber, one pony was patiently sipping some warm tea. The yellow-orange fire in the hearth kept the cold away. It was a peaceful scene. The room was large and had the feeling of freedom roaming inside it. There was a single luxurious bed on the left side, near the fireplace. Long garlands were hanging over it. A big wardrobe was standing on the right side of the room. The walls were made out of wooden lattice and covered with silky textile from the both sides. The room was in the center of the building and surrounded by a hallway.

The leader was sitting on the soft carpet, on which was illustrated a battle scene, where a courageous warrior stood against a fire breathing red dragon. The fighter was pointing a golden spear at the beast's heart. His bright mane was waving by the wind. No fear was found in his eyes, only full determination. The serpent had spread his wings and stood in a threatening pose. Both wanted to kill each other. Their clan was born by this epic duel and thus receiving the nicknames blood ponies or dragon ponies. Their entire psychology was dictated by the heroic acts of the few and many tried to imitate them. Too many were the brutal warriors, unlike in the other clans, where the the farmers had the greater numbers.

A small round table stood in front of Lupi, on which was painted a rose on a black background. The edges were covered with gold, just like the short legs. The beautiful porcelain kettle was in the middle, next to a second cup. On it were illustrated forest and green mountains. His green eyes moved from it to the hearth. The flames played their demonic games and laughed at the ashes. His soul was alone and darkened, his heart was cold and closed for anypony. The burden was to great for him. He only dreamed of being with his loved one but when would his wish be fulfilled? Lupi loyally served his ponies. With the ghost on his side, he fixed the mistakes of the previous leaders but for what prize? To lose somepony he loved and literally become a slave to destiny. No freewill, no choices to make. Everything seemed so predetermined, was he playing under the spirit's secret plan? Why would the entity care about the world of the living? The leader only wished to be happy and carefree.

After his father's death, five months after their expedition in the mainland, his life turned for the worse. Problems were arising like mushrooms after a heavy rain. He had too little time, not enough to even have a word with Snake Tail, who traveled throughout the lands to search the answer of her curse. There was just no window of opportunity to meet her.

Then time quickly moved forward and her time came. She gave birth and passed away a day after, never to find her Holy Grail. It was too late, when he went to see her. Lupi witnessed how she was embalmed just like her mother before her. The lifeless body was then placed inside a glass sarcophagus. At that moment, he felt as if a half of him died. Her remains were put in the same temple, where the first cursed warrior rested to this day.

He was left with her child, which he took as his own. Watched her grow, gave her the best training but never showed how much Lupi cared for her. Maybe he was too afraid of repeating the history, so the leader stayed in the distance, when it came to personal relations with Foxy. He was only a commander, who send her on missions and expected the best results from her.

When she went after Blue Circle and didn't return after many months, he felt so hopeless. Lupi didn't want to lose her so soon, that's why he ordered his finest warriors to track her down and bring her back home. Since then he only prayed that Foxy was going to return any time soon. Lupi'd have never forgiven himself, If she had died alone in a foreign land.He touched the red medallion under his cloths and wished for a better future.

Suddenly the guard on the left broke through the wall. His lifeless body fell on the ground with a bang. His neck was impaled by three kunais. Then the one on the right fell dead on his face. The door was violently opened and a pony in a white outfit entered in the bedroom.

The leader stayed calm and continued sipping from his cup. Behind Circle appeared Triple and the two carefully approached their goal.

"It's impolite to burst in like that in this late hour." Lupi turned to the uninvited guests. His eyes scanned them from top to bottom. What caught his attention was the familiar handle of the famous sword. Dark feeling and urges began spreading in his heart, nonetheless he kept them under control. "I see that my most favorite warrior is dead. Was her death glorious?"

"I do not know. The last time I saw her was more than a week ago. I'm certain that she is still alive." Circle moved in front of him and sat.

"Then why her sword is in your possession?"

"A minion stole it from her and then I stole it from him. I assure you that I haven't touched her tasty flank." he took the kettle and filled the empty cup with the mint tea. "Do you know why we are here?"

Lupi glimpsed at Triple.

"You've found out what I've been doing. I guess, Number One wont be coming to his family."

"And it is only you to blame. Your rule of terror is at an end."

The tan earth pony took another sip and then looked inside his half-empty cup.

"Rule of terror? Since when did I deserve such a critique. My clan mates live with the knowledge that they're a conquerors. I've struck fear in the hearts of my enemies and finally my clan can sleep without worrying about the past mistakes. I've brought wealth and glory to my ponies, something the previous leaders couldn't do."

"Glory? There was no such thing on the battlefields. You've brought only utter chaos and destruction to thousands of lives. You shall be remembered not as a victorious leader but as a mass murderer."

"It may be so. History will judge us all by our actions. I for one do not shy away from my past. I had my reasons and I did what was best for my clan." Lupi put the china cup on the table. "What do you aim to achieve by breaking into my home and killing my loyal ninjas?"

"To stop the madness you've been creating so far." Triple said. "We do not want to kill you or harm anypony else. We want you to confess about your doings. You went against our laws and traditions, so you'll be punished by giving up your position as a leader and coming with us."

"Traditions and old laws, their time has long passed. We live in a modern age, where everything is permitted and no old teachers will stop this trend. Why don't you ask Clan Tiger about the killings of villagers, who would not bow to their commanders? Isn't that in contrary to the rules?" he smiled sardonically. "What you ask is unheard of. No leader in the history of the clans has given up his rightful place. If I do so, then who will rule after me? Who will become the legitimate leader of the Dragon Claw Clan?"

"I will." Circle sipped from his cup. "I'll merge the two clans and bring order to our ninja world."

"By my white mane, this would only lead to another war. The consequences will be more devastating than after the last Big One." Lupi shook head. "I have to decline the offer."

"This is not a negotiation." Triple put his hoof on the table. "Also we'd like to know what you were going to do with the machines from the Equestrian kingdom?"

"Save my clan." Lupi whispered.

Circle ceased drinking and stared deep in the leader's eyes. Was he honest with the answer?

"To save them from what?" Triple moved in Lupi's personal space.

"I was told by the ghost that our world was at the bring of extermination. Environmental disaster is going to wipe out every living being off the face of the planet. The machines' purposes was to create a protective bubble around my clan. That way my ponies would be spared from the hell outside."

"Lies!" Blue exclaimed. "Who is this ghost, if I may ask?"

"The spirit told me that she watched over my ancestors and helped them in the time of need. Though the recent rulers forgot about her and denied her place at their right side. She never said her name."

Circle smirked.

"I bet I know who she is: Shadow Sun!"

Lupi raised his left eyebrow and looked in disbelief.

"Shadow Sun does not exist. It's just a myth and a false prophecy. If the spirit was Her, then why in Tartarus would She help me?"

Circle put the cup on the table.

"Horse crap! You've allied with Her and you are playing Her game! Stop the acting and take off the lamb's coat. "

Something winced in his green eyes. Circle noticed it but it was little too late.

Meanwhile...

The pegasi finished with their job and returned to the palace without being seen. Two unicorn with magically held bows guarded the last floor. They made sure no pony would attack from the air. The moment the six fliers approached the tower, the grounded Guardians aimed at them.

"We are friendlies!" the young white pegasus notified.

"The magic word?" the red unicorn asked.

"Please?"

The two archers immediately granted them access to the balcony. Everypony landed safely.

“All preparations are done.”

“Good. If everything goes as planned, we'll not need them at all.”

The pegasus nodded and then went to the staircase, when the black horn asked:

“Where are you going?”

“I want to check the others. I'll return shortly.”

He went down the stairs. It was little dark, there were few candles that didn't provide enough light for the entire hallway. The pegasus could hear the conversation inside the leader's chamber. He went past the dead guard, who was struck by his kunais. There was a large pool of blood around the body because he hit an artery on his neck. The victim never stood a chance.

His attention was caught by the noise that came from one of the rooms. There weren't allies in sight, so he took the initiative and stealthily went to one of the many closed doors. Although they had checked them all, it didn't guaranty that an enemy could be sneaking. The palace had big enough windows in every room, that it was possible for ninjas to break in. They didn't have enough Guardians to guard every window, so such attacks were very likely.

The young ninja took in his mouth one of the knifes from the belt and clenched tightly. He listened through the door. There were at least two ponies in the room. Suddenly it opened, he jumped forward. The knife stopped just in the throat of the bigger brother. In his brown eyes fear was visible like a bright beam in the darkness. The attacker looked quite scary.

“Hey it's us! There is no need to be so jumpy!” the stronger one shouted.

The pegasus backed off and put his weapon in its place.

“You were making too much noise. That can get you both killed!” his serious tone did not scare them at all and the two brothers smiled.

“Nonsense! Only our guys are here.“ the taller one turned to the other. “Should we show him?”

“What exactly?”

The shorter pony turned around and took something from a chest.

”We were just trying some of this awesome costumes! Check this!” he threw the expensive clothing at the pegasus. The later was a little surprised. It was soft and light, colored in yellow. The edges and the buttons were red. There was a single pocket on the left side. “It's your size, so why don't you try it?”

The white pony shook head and hurled the costume to his right.

“We are not here to steal pretty dresses. Start acting like real Guardians of the Portal! Our mission is serious and the future of our world depends on it! The enemy may be planning to attack us, so we need to be on guard.”

“Relax, bro! Nothing bad will happen.” the taller ninja lied down on the pile of royal cloths. He smiled. His dreamy eyes looked at the stone ceiling. “Ah, we're going to be fine.” Suddenly his brain remembered something and the pony raised his head. “Hey, did you hear about the big find?”

“No, I was busy doing my job.” the pegasus scornfully looked at him.

“Hah, if we didn't have the worst luck in the history, we could have been in the company of the leader's harem.”

"The guys on the sixth floor found it. Ah, think of all the beauties there just waiting for us to show them some ninja tricks, if you know what I mean." the shorter pony nudged the pegasus.

The wing pony was a little embarrassed by the thought of many elegant mares, who would surround him and send him down to the world of holy pleasures. Though still young, he wanted to see what was to be with a girl. Unfortunate for him, the Guardians weren't allowed to have intimate relations with the opposite sex or the same.

"You haven't seen anything, until you've been with a babe. The last female Guardian died ten years ago, since then there haven't been any new lady candidates, though they would become like sisters, which kind of kills it."

The two brothers sadly looked down.

"But orders are orders and we shall remain on this level. At least we found this little treasure room with all kinds of clothes. May the ones down below be cursed!"

The young warrior shook head again to wash all the sad feelings and actually stop carrying for such things. He stamped and looked at them directly.

"We might not be lucky but we are protecting our leaders, which is an high honor of itself. To serve Master Triple, while being close to him. That means that he thinks that we are trustworthy. And..."

"Yeah, yeah. Spare us the looser speech." they waved.

He angrily stamped again.

"And also the Dragon Claw leader is said to have only one pony in his heart, so the harem may be just a joke!"

"Aha... maybe someday, when you grow up a little, you'll know that there can not be only one!"

The pegasus facehoofed and sighed.

"I'll not argue about love and ladies with you. Just get back to your positions and look for any dangers." he turned around, suddenly something caught his eye.

"What? Is there anything else?" the shorter pony asked.

The youngster looked to the left and for his horror saw that the yellow dress was levitating in the air. It was in the middle of the room, so there weren't any objects on which it could have landed. The white ninja immediately threw two kunais at the clothing. There was the sound of piercing of flesh. Then a black warrior appeared out of the thin air and collapsed on the floor. The three Guardians looked on in disbelief.

Out of sudden five more appeared in the room. They drew out their swords and knifes. This was a trap. The pegasus took out six kunais with his wings. The knifes' handles got between the feathers.Then he threw them at the enemy ninjas. Two fell down, the rest managed to avoid the blades. They charged. The two brothers quickly drew their swords. The sound of metal hitting metal sounded throughout the entire hallway.

The pegasus backed off, when the third attacker swung a sword at him. The blade was about to hit his head, when he was saved by the short earth pony. He quickly overcame his fear and threw one knife at the unprotected tummy of the dragon pony. It struck deep in his body. The pain was unbearable. Then the friendly sword moved down and cut the chest of the wounded fighter. Everything happened in a blink of an eye, though the pegasus thought that the act of the kill took eternity. The death cry marked the beginning of a very bloody battle.

Then the short pony blocked the next quick attack. Steel was met by steel. Sparks came from the contact point. The enemy ninja was pushing forward but the Guardian stood his ground. The pegasus threw another kunai. The blood ninja jumped backwards and thus dodged the lethal projectile. Now it was time to be on the offensive and the strong stallion jumped forward. His sword was aimed at the enemy's heart. He parried.

The taller ninja was having some problems with his opponent. Their duel was very fast paced. They were sending hits after hits but no pony could wound the other. Soon one of them was going to make a fatal mistake and pay with his life. The pegasus attempted to throw more knifes, unfortunately he ran out kunais.

"Close quarter it is!"

He spread his wings and jumped in the melee. The bad pony didn't expect an air attack, so the winged ninja smashed right into him. Both fell down. Then a sword impaled the black pony's throat. Blood began pouring out of the wound, staining the two Guardians.

"Fresh Biscuit!" the tall pony shouted. His brother fell on the floor, struck in the thorax. The cut was not lethal but the next blow would be. He stared in his executioner's eyes with no regrets. Before the victor could claim his life, a flying blade went inside his head and emerge from the back. The Dragon Claw ninja stood like a statue for a few seconds, until his lifeless body fell on the ground.

They went to him and turned him around.

"I never knew you were so accurate." he whispered.

"It wasn't me. You have to thank Free Feather for saving your sorry plot."

"Big bro, you disappoint me again." he smiled painfully.

"I'll take care of your wound. Just do not think of going to the other side! Feather, make sure that no pony comes close. I'll need five minutes to treat him."

The long range ninja nodded. He swiftly collected his kunais from the bodies and went outside. The noises of the fights in the corridor were loud. The Guardians from the sixth and eight floor were fighting the endless stream of dragon ninjas. The wounded cried from the top of their lungs. It was a pure chaotic melee. He couldn't recognize friend from foe. They all were colored in crimson. The floor was turned into a small lake of blood. Bodies lied all over the place, most of them were from the enemy forces. His sight turned to the leader's chamber. Was it all under control after they captured him?

Ten ninjas made holes in the walls and entered inside just to be met by ten tentacles. They were cut down like sheep. Then the black spears were aimed at the calm tan earth pony, who continued to drink warm tea.

"Stop the attack or I'll be force to end you!"

A devil smile appeared on that old face.

"The spirit said that I'll live after the slaughter, so I'd rather test this claim."

More draconian ponies entered from all sides. They swung their weapons and all missed the old master. He used his special talent and created two copies of himself. They moved as one, fought as one and were generally very annoying for the attacking ninjas. One would dodge, the other two would strike. His art was precise and fluid. He hit spots, which controlled motion of their limbs. Many just fell flat on their faces, paralyzed and barely breathing. Four more tentacles emerged from Circle's back and with their help, he cleaned this wave.

"You are living me no choice!"

The ten sharp spears impaled the sitting pony. However, there was no hit, no blood. As if Lupi was made out of air.

"What magic is this?!" Blue asked.

"A gift from the ghost. You are not the first to try to assassinate me and fail." the leader calmly said. "You can say that I'm untouchable."

"Is that right?" Circle drew out the clawed sword with one of his tentacles and swung it at him. Before the blade landed on his head, the earth pony managed to grab it in mid-air. "Ha, what's the matter? Afraid of a little chopping?"

"The sword has magical properties that can hurt me, though that's only one weapon in the entire world. It would be very unfortunate, if it was lost."

Theurgic rainbows moved from his hooves, through the weapon and landed on the black tentacle. Blue couldn't move because of the enormous energy that burned him from the inside. Triple quickly interfered. His hoof touched Lupi's neck and concentrated a lot of energy on that single spot.

"Ghost or not, you'll feel this!"

Bright white light illuminated the room. Lupi released the sword. However, Circle was still under tremendous pain and was not able to strike him again. The leader took out the medallion from under his cloths and aimed it at the unicorn. The red beam pushed Triple, sending him to the other side of the room.

The two clones promptly attacked. The leader used his locket again and destroyed one of the spirits. Red scratches appeared on Triple's body. The second one knocked him down. The crystal pendant flew in the air and landed on the cosy bed. Lupi pushed the copy away to find out the incoming blade.

His body sank under the stone floor. The sword hit the floor, not the target. Circle was still in a world of hurt but the determination in his eyes told Triple of his intentions.

"Don't follow him! He'll only lead you to more traps."

"If we don't kill him, he'll kill us with his evil plots."

Then a bloody unicorn appeared at the entrance. His blue cloths had lost their original color. The big sword was hovering right next to him. It was still thirsty for more heads, though the user was at bring of collapse.

"Master, they are coming from all sides! We can't defend this floor much more! It may sound dishonorable but we'll have to flee!"

"Will you sacrifice our lives to go after him or will you help us escape this trap?" Triple was completely serious.

Circle was angry. How could he let him so easily? The shadow ninja stared at where the leader used to sit. Then looked at the bed. The medallion was gone. His feelings were mixed. However, his common sense was vocal enough to persuade him to choose the path of life.

"I never immolate anypony. Better retreat and fight another day."

Triple nodded, then he stood up and together they left the leader's bedroom. Outside it was a total massacre. The Guardians were putting a very good fight. Pegasi attacked from the ceiling, earth ponies blocked the enemy advance, unicorns caused damage with their bows and magically held blades. They had created a defensive perimeter around their only exit. However the endless stream of black ninjas was steadily exhausting their low numbers.

"Everypony get to the staircase and start evacuating!" Triple shouted, though his voice was lost in the sounds of the battle. The dying screamed, the living fought desperately. There was an evil presence among the fighters. It encouraged the fires of war and laughed at those miserable creatures.

Free Feather was out of knifes again, thus his role as at the front ended and he began helping his wounded comrades to get to the upper floor. Circle went full specter on the enemy. With his help, the Guardians could have a moment to rest. He was brutal with his tentacles. No mercy was shown, every victim of his died on the spot. After his appearance in the melee, the enemy ponies were not so reluctant to attack and soon they were unable to advance because of fear.

This gave them the opportunity to escape and the group quickly repositioned itself on the eight floor. There they prepared the wounded for evacuation. The ones who were capable to fight, stood in front of the stairway. The four remaining pegasi took some of the ponies, who were unable to walk by themselves and entered in the realm of the birds. Their final destination was the forest, from which they came. The rest had to get there by hoof. For the unlucky ones the night was just beginning.

When Free Feather was about to escaped this little castle of hell, the taller brother said to him:

"Don't drop him! Throw him at the enemy, if you must but not because you felt tired! Understand?"

"I'll make sure that his flight is enjoyable." the white pegasus smiled, then he jumped and followed the wind.

At the same time the tintinnabulations sounded throughout the entire capital, alerting every guard, ninja and warrior to their presence. The Guardians began descending on the ropes, soon only Circle and few unicorns remained. When they took their turns, he took the unlit torches, used the lighter and then threw them at the staircase. The wooden structure quickly blazed into flames and thus cut the route of the enemy.

Lupi watched how they escaped from a safe place. He was unpleasantly surprised to see Circle escaping his trap, though he knew that the chances of killing him were not very high. This was the legendary White Shadow, who fought like one pony army, he tried to trap. Defeating him would not be easy and it looked like it would take awhile.

The door opened behind him, a captain of his personal guard was standing at the entrance. His cloths were colored in red and purple.

"What are your orders, my leader?"

"They'll escape no matter what we throw at them. They wouldn't have come here, If they didn't have a darn good escape plan. Also we must not make ourselves the enemy in the public's eyes. Many still follow the old ways and have high respect to the Guardians, so track them from afar. When they are out of the city, you have my permission to hunt them down to the last pony. Block the portal to make sure that none escapes the island. Take as many ninjas as you want. I'll wait to hear the good news from you."

The captain bowed and then silently left. The leader looked outside the window again.

"A little more my love. Soon we'll be together again and this time I'll show you what feelings were hiding in my lonely heart."

On the window appeared a reflection of a dark mare. She smiled at him, knowing that this poor soul completely belonged to Her.   Next Chapter: Chapter 27: Coming Home Estimated time remaining: 6 Hours, 39 Minutes