> The Guardian
>  by Applepip
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“Miss Trail! Please your going to be late! Miss Trail?” I knock on the bedroom door for the seventh time.

My name is Kenny Rowe or guardian 001 if you want to be serious, I was an agent of the newly created G.O.E which stands for the Guardians Of Equestria. The organisations main goal is the protection and safety of all ponies that visit or live on Earth and my current assignment was going through her daily routine. Which most days, doesn't amount to much.

“My daughter still not up Kenny?” 

I turn to find Golden Bank standing behind me. Golden Bank was the mother of Star Trail my assignment, it has been two years since I started my protection detail for her daughter and I have become somewhat a part of the family or so Golden Bank always says.

“Yes mam, It seems like this routine of hers will never break.” I reply, keeping my tone professional. “Though I do have to point out it is her audition day!” My louder tone was met with a loud thud coming from Star Trails room. “Ah! I see the quarry has awoken.”

Golden Bank giggles. “I'll leave you to your duties Kenny, good day.”

“Good day.” I return, bowing my head.

Golden Bank walks down the nearby flight of stairs and out of my sight. I have to admit when I first arrived I was nervous as hell. Star Trail was my first official duty since graduating, but now I do treat the ponies as my close relatives. Most usually see ponies as animals but when you get to know them they are just as smart as we are, I would wager if they evolved on Earth instead of us they would be the dominant species. I turn my head back to the bedroom door as it quickly swings open.

“Why didn't you wake me!” Star Trail shouts.

Star Trail, the Earth pony bane of my existence, three feet tall and already acting like most Earth teenagers. Star Trail was a mixture of her parents colours, her coat was a gold colour like her mums and her mane and tail were silver like her dad's. She even had her cutie mark already, and let me tell you, learning about cutie marks was probably the most boring three days of the training. All they needed to say was that the marks represent the ponies special talent, that's it! But nooo, they gave us a three day lecture on them!

I smile warmly. “I did try Miss Trail but as always your sleeping habits tend to make that quite impossible.”

“Fine ok, I get it. I'm a heavy sleeper!” Star replies, walking past me and heading for the stairs. I walk into her bedroom and grab her saddle bags. “Ken! Can you grab my-” I hold up her bags. “Thanks.”

“Always ready to serve, my lady.” I give her an over the top bow, only to crack open an eye to look at her expression.

“Do you always have to do that? I hate the bowing and niceties.”

“You wish me to be rowdy and normal?”

“Is that too much to ask?” Star Trail asks, as I drop her saddle bags on her back.

“It's part of my training but if you want me to be more standard in my mannerisms then I will.”

“Why for little ol' me? How nice.” Star Trail says fluttering her eyelids at me.

I sigh. “Can we just get to school?”

“Ok Ok, you're very closed to emotion aren't you?”

“No, just you.”

Star Trail chuckles as we head out the house giving Golden Bank a wave as we leave. We head to my car sitting in the driveway. Now as far as cars go this baby was tech'd to the teeth, it had GPS, enhanced car tracker system and even a remote control shut off circuit that can disable the car with one command from my phone. 

I followed Star until I felt a vibration in my coat pocket, I reached in and pulled out my phone. The phones given to guardians were not like most smart phones you get on the market, as a matter of fact our phones are way ahead in terms of technology, well that's what you get when the CIA and the NSA join together. 

I take notice of the name calling, it was my superior. I press the answer button and the face of my commander appears, however his face was a picture of seriousness.

“Guardian 001, are you receiving me?”

“Loud and clear commander.” I reply.

“Good, I am contacting you and the other guardians as I believe there is a great threat to your charge.” I was about to ask how when the commander just carries on. “At roughly oh five hundred this morning we lost contact with three of our guardians in South America, Brazil to be exact.”

“Separate incidents sir?”

“Negative, all three guardians were protecting a member of the Equestrian Royal Family, a  prince.” The commander reaches on his desk and pulls a sheet of paper towards him. “The prince and all three guardians were found dead.”

“Gang attack or Hitman?” I ask.

“Neither, the guardians and the prince were all killed by precise magical attacks to there bodies. Who ever or what ever did this knew pony and human anatomy with extreme detail. Now before you say anything Guardian 001 normally this wouldn't cause much concern as you all know your duty.” I nod. “The fact is three guardians were killed without a struggle, by someone or something that they or the prince knew.”

“A fellow guardian?” I was hesitant to ask the question as I frowned.

“Possibly.” The commanders reply came as a shock, one of my fellow guardians turned traitor, the thought caused my heart to skip. “Your orders have not changed but I suggest more caution.”

“I understand sir, any secondary objectives?”

“No, just keep your charge safe, be well guardian.”

I salute the commander. “Be well sir!” I sigh as the screen turns back to the menu system. I look up to see Star looking at me.

“Are you ok Ken?” Star asks, sitting on her haunches.

“Yeah, just my superior checking up on me.” I didn't want to tell her the truth as Star didn't need to know, I walked up to the car and opened the rear door. Star thanks me and jumps up into the seat, I close the door and enter the drivers seat.

“I hope nothings wrong? Your superiors don't normally check on you.” Star says as I turn on the ignition. I hear sniffle from behind. “There taking you away aren't they?”

I start the engine before Stars question cause me to turn around. “Why would you think that?” I reach behind and wipe a tear from her right eye. “I ain't going nowhere.” Star nods and settles down into her seat. “Besides someone has to keep you out of trouble!” I receive a hoof to the back of my head. “Ok! Ok! I'm going!”

I reverse the car out of the driveway and pull out heading off to Stars school. It doesn’t take long to reach the school and most of our journey was silent. It was only when I started to pull into the school grounds did Star ask me something.

“Ken? Can I ask you something?”

“Sure, what's up?” I reply.

“I know this might be personal but if a pony was to ask you out, would you say yes?”

I turn in my seat. “I don't know, ponies ain't that much different from humans apart from your physical appearance.” I tap my chin. “I guess I would think about it, however my duty to you comes first, it's what I was trained for.” I give Star a narrow stare. “Why do you ask?”

“Nothing! Just curious at what you thought about ponies, that's all!” Star says waving her hooves at me.

I chuckle. “You better get going or your going to be late.”

“Oh right!” Star replies, opening the car door with her mouth and jumping out. “Guess I'll see you same place after school?”

“Yup, see you then!” I watch as Star runs in, my gaze inadvertently drawn to her hind quarters. I shake my head. “Come on Ken! She's a child for christ sake!” I shake my head again before taking off for the car park area of the school. 

I park the car next to the teachers parking, getting out I lock the car and head towards the admin building. I look up at the school name as I pass under it, 'Equestria High'. I never really paid much attention but apparently this was one of the first mixed schools that both ponies and human kids attended. I smiled as I walked through the front door and spotted my favourite receptionist.

“Hey Debra! How's the terrors today?”

Debra turns around. “Hey Ken! Just dropped Star Trail off?”

“Yep, going to my home away from home now.”

Debra chuckles. “Well have fun! Oh wait I have something for you!” Debra reaches under the main desk and pulls out a small box. “It came for you this morning.”

I take the box and notice the emblem of the G.O.E stamped on the front. “Thanks Debs, you take it easy!” I say, walking away. Debra gives me a wave as I head for the flight of stairs nearby.

I stare at the box in my hand as I finally reach the teachers lounge of the school, I open the door and find the room was empty, I smiled as I headed for a couch in the corner to open my package. I sat down and placed the box on my lap, I proceeded to rip the brown wrapping off and open the box. In side was a white and black box with a card on top, I picked up the card and read the message.

'Greetings Guardian 001, in light of recent events all guardians are being equipped with a new type a bullet for your weapons. This new round is dubbed the Verox 1000 or as some call it the 'Equestrian round'. This bullet was made in conjunction with the Equestrian royalty, it is designed to destabilise a pony's magic on impact rendering them unconscious. So as you know it will be ineffective against humans, your standard rounds will suffice in that situation. Be well Guardian'

I look down at the box and lift the top open with a finger, inside the box was ten silver rounds with a blue liquid in the bullets tip. I pulled one round out and studied the design, I put the bullet back as I knew it was compatible with my guns. I replaced the card and closed the box back up, it was good timing as the lounge door opened and two teachers entered. They both saw me and froze, I smiled, I so loved replacement teachers. 

You see everybody knew the reputation of the G.O.E ,and where there was a G.O.E guardian an important pony wasn't far away.

“Morning.” I say, giving them a quick salute.

“M-Morning guardian!” One replies, the other just stands there.

“Come in I won't bite, much.” I grin. The two teachers cross to the coffee machine and start to make each other coffees.

I stand up and approach the window over looking the main courtyard of the school. I fold my arms and look out over the students moving about, I didn't realise at the time but another teacher came into the room.

“Oh look! It's the pony protector!” I sigh heavily as I knew the teacher, though I wish I didn't. “Where's your charge protector?”

I turn my body and keep my arms folded. “None of your business Mr Groas, as always.” I turn back to the window.

“Come now guardian, surely you don't hate me that much?”

“As much as I find you repulsive Mr Groas ,you do have something to teach these children.” I hear footsteps get closer. “I would remind you that I have been trained by several senior members of three different special forces groups.” I hear the footsteps stop followed by a grunt. “Thank you.”

I turn away from the window again and walk towards the door, I notice that Groas was only a few feet away from me. I push passed him and pick up my box before heading for the lounge door. I give the new teachers and slight nod as I head out, leaving the asshole behind.

I walk out of the building as I decide to check up on Star, I never had to before but the news from before has unsettled my mind. I make my way to the sports fields only to be stopped by a shrill.

“Misssterrr Kennnyyyyy!” I freeze. “How are you doing!?”

I turn just in time to see a human teenager slam into me. I fall to the ground clutching my attacker. I slowly open my eyes again. I sigh as I spot Mandy rubbing her head.

“Mandy? Could you be so kind as to get off me!” I say, releasing her from my embrace.

“Sorry Kenny, I wasn't supposed to hit you that hard!”

“No harm done.” I reply getting to my feet. “Why are you out here running around anyway? Don't you have a class right now?”

“Yeah I do but Star sent me for you!” Mandy blushes.

“Star sent you? Why didn't she come herself?”

“Weeeelllll....she said it was a secret, I was to come get you and that was about it!”

I nodded, Mandy was stars best friend along with one other. Mandy was the epitome of sugar rush, always running around and the funny thing is she never tired out. Most days I was so envious of her.

“So? Where is Star?” I ask.

“Oh right! Follow me!” Mandy took off as I calmly picked my box back up.

I brush myself off and headed in the direction Mandy had taken, I frowned a little. Star had better have a good reason why she wasn't in class.
> Chapter 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I followed Mandy until I started to see we were approaching the bike sheds behind the school. My head was filled with confusion, why was Star wanting to meet me here? I saw Mandy disappear between two buildings, rolling my eyes I followed. Rounding the corner I spotted Mandy near two ponies, one was Stars other friend called Bright Prism, a pegasis with bright yellow hair and a pink coat.

As I got nearer Mandy and Prism parted revealing Star behind them, I gave Star a wave and the two other girls giggled and walked away leaving by the opposite end of the buildings. When I approached Star she was blushing and twirling her hoof on the floor. I found her attitude very confusing but that's not what I was thinking at that moment.

“Star? Why are you here? Why are you not in class?” Star was avoiding my gaze. “Star, what's wrong?”

“I...I can't do this!” 

Star suddenly gallops away, leaving me very confused as Mandy and Prism come back into view.

“Soooo?” Mandy says sliding up beside me, I noticed her wiggling eyebrows. “What did you say?”

“About what?” I say looking back in the direction Star ran.

“You mean she didn't tell you!?” Prism asks.

“Tell me what?” I question, turning to face both Mandy and Prism.

“Um.....I don't think this is for us to say, It's Stars business.” Mandy replies.

“Girls, what is this all about?” I ask, I narrow my eyes and fold my arms. “I get dragged out here and notice star is not in class, then she runs off saying 'I can't do this'. What is going on?” My foot starts tapping the ground as the two girls look back and forth.

“We....We can't! We promised Star!” Mandy drops to her knees and grabs my jacket. “Don't make me brake my promise! Please!” Mandy starts to cry as I look to Prism with a raised eyebrow.

“I...I promised too.” Prism says, avoiding my gaze.

I pinch the bridge of my nose. “Fine! Just...” I sigh. “Just go to your classes girls, I'll handle this.”

Mandy suddenly jumps up, all traces of her crying gone from her face.

“Thank you Kenny!” Mandy kisses my cheek. “See you later!” Both Mandy and Bright Prism take off leaving me standing shocked between the two buildings.

“Teenagers...” I mutter before taking off back towards the main buildings.





I never saw Star or the other two much after that, I went about the day sitting in the teachers lounge drinking coffee and reading the small selection of books they had available. I had just finished the latest chapter of my current book when I heard the final bell for the day. Placing the book back onto the small shelf from which it came I left the room and headed back to the car park. Most of the students leaving their classes for home stopped and stared at me, though I had gotten used to it I still felt uncomfortable. 

I reached my car where I left it and found to my shock Star was sitting nearby, I stopped, Star has never got to the car before me. Most of the time I had to wait for her. Approaching the car I saw Star look away from me, had I done something wrong?

“Star? Are you ok?” I ask, unlocking the car. “You look troubled?”

“It's been a tiring day today.” Star answers.

“Anything I can help with?”

“No, I just need to go home and rest, I'll be better later.”

“Ok, but you know I'm here for you...right?” I say, opening the door to let Star into the car.

“Yeah, but I'll be fine really.” Star replies, smiling at me as she settles down into her seat.

I shrug and get in the driving seat, after turning the ignition I pull out of the car park and head for home. Again the journey was in silence, I had to do something about it.

“I thought more about your question from earlier.” I say.

“What question?” Star asks.

“The one about having a pony girlfriend, I know I said I don't know but I have given it a lot of thought.” I pause hearing Star shift behind me. “And I think there would be no difference if I had a pony girlfriend than a human one. If she loved me for who I am not what I could be then it doesn’t matter what species she is.” I reply, driving down the last few streets before home. “Though was there a reason you asked me that question or was it just curiosity?”

“Oh just curious I guess, I wanted to see what my guardian really thought about us ponies.”

“I think nothing less than if you were human Star, hell even your mum is practically calling me family. I love all of you.” I pause again. “Even if it means going against my code.”

“What do you mean?”

“My code states that I am never to get too attached to my duty or assignment, for apparently it could lead to...complications.”

“Like what?”

“Oh you know the basic ones, love, compassion, anger, hate. All the fun stuff.” I say, twirling my hand in the air.

“So you didn't like us when you first arrived?” I could hear the sadness in Stars voice.

“At the time I had just got out of training, all the crap drilled into me was fresh and ready to go.” I pull into the driveway of the house. “You were just a job to me.” I turn off the car and turn back to Star, she was crying. “Hey, but I don't think that now, you guys really are my family. I would even die for you.”

Star just stares at me before putting her forelegs around my neck.

“Thank you Kenny, you really know how to cheer a girl up.” Star mumbles into my shoulder.

I pat Star's head. “Don't mention it, now let's get inside shall we.” Star pulls away and nods. “Besides my shoulder was getting wet!”

Star hits my shoulder before I get out and open her door. Star jumps out and walks into the house, I take a few deeps breaths before locking the car and heading in myself. As I walked into the house I could see Golden Bank heading up the stairs with Star in front, I saw Star turn her head and give me a worried look. I stood there confused.

“Kenny, could you come in here for a moment?” I heard a familiar voice ask from the living room.

I walk through into the living room and saw Star's father Silver Star sitting in his leather chair. I approached him and stood to attention.

“May I be of assistance sir?” I ask.

“Kenny, sit down would you please?” Silver Star gestures to the nearest seat.

“Certainly sir.” I sit down on the couch next to Silver's chair.

Silver Star sighs before leaning towards me. “How long have you served our family?”

“Two years sir.”

“Two years and do you assume me and my wife to stupid Kenny?”

I was taken aback by Silver's question and I started to sweat.

“N-No sir!”

Silver gave me a narrow stare. “Are you lying to me son?”

“No sir!”

“Me and my wife have noticed some changes between you and Star Trail, more importantly the way my daughter looks and acts around you.” Silver states, his gaze never leaving mine. “She has become more open and yes we understand that your her guardian, but you two have become more than that haven't you?”

I froze. I didn't know how to reply or even if I should, however in a spurt of quick thinking I come up with an answer.

I lower my head and sigh. “At first sir, Star Trail was nothing more than an assignment, a duty. But now I think we have become more than just bodyguard and client.” I pause as I meet Silver gaze again. “I have come to respect her, I now consider her my friend.”

“And that's it?” Silver star asks, his narrow stare coming back.

“That's it.” I reply.

There was a long pause between us both before Silver Star slides off his chair and approaches his liqueur cabinet.

“Pity.” Silver states, opening the cabinet doors and getting out two glasses.

“Pity sir?” I ask, now looking more confused than ever.

“Do you drink Kenny?”

“Not often sir but I do.”

“Good, try this new Equestrian scotch, it'll put some hair on your chest or so I think the saying goes!” silver says, walking over to me and holding out a glass filled with a dark brown liquid.

I reach up and take the glass nodding my thanks as Silver goes back and collects a glass of his own.

“Earlier sir, why did you say pity?”

Silver chuckles. “You have no knowledge of pony relations do you Kenny?”

“I have knowledge of pony interactions and politics, if that's what you mean?”

Silver laughs. “No dear boy. I mean intimate relations.”

I nearly choke on the scotch I was drinking. “T-That was not covered in our training sir, though we were trained to pick up on certain signs that a pony was becoming too close.”

“Then you've failed in that regard haven't you?”

I stiffen, I had failed but how? I needed to know. “H-How have I failed sir?”

Silver puts down his glass and jumps on to the couch next to me, putting one of his forelegs around my neck he points to my chest with a grin.

“Kenny, you and me are going to have a quick crash course in pony courtship because from what me and my wife has noticed, your going to need it!”





Star Trail walks into her bedroom with Golden Bank close behind, Golden closes the Star's bedroom door and then turns around giving her daughter a large grin.

“So? Has he said it yet!?” Golden could barely keep her excitement in. “Come on! Tell me!”

“Not yet, but I think I'm wearing him down.” Star replies, followed by her own smile.

“Ugh, how stupid is that man!” Golden crosses the room and takes Star by the cheeks. “How could he not know my daughter is trying to court him!”

“Mum!” Star shouts, pushing her mother away. “He's human, he's not like us, our courtships are different. He probably can't even smell my pheromones.”

“Pony feathers! Every stallion can smell them, he's just hiding it.” Golden taps her chin. “Yes that's right, he just blocks them out because he's your protector. Probably doesn't want to hurt your feelings.”

“But that's not what I want him to hurt!” Star puts a hoof over her mouth.

“What was that dear?” Golden asks, pretending that she didn't hear it.

“You heard me! Your hearings not gone yet.” Star giggles.

Both Golden and Star start to laugh as a shout comes from down stairs.

“WHAT? YOU CAN'T BE SERIOUS?”

“Uh oh! What has your father done now?” Golden says, looking to the bedroom door with concern. “Should we go down?” Golden asks Star turning her gaze back.

“I think we should, father might ruin my chances before they start!”

Golden chuckles before opening the bedroom door and walking out with Star close behind.





I sat petrified. My fingers had dug themselves into the soft material of the couch and my face had become rigid with fear. I slowly turn my head to meet Silver Stars stare.

“So....that smell?” Silver Star nods. “Holy shit!” I whisper. “How could I not have known? We had the training about detecting the signs of a pony's advances!” I release my grip on the couch and slump over, holding my face in my hands. “Why would they leave something like this out?” I asked myself.

“Maybe because you're human they thought you wouldn't be susceptible to pony pheromones.” Silver says.

I straighten up and take a deep breath. “This certainly answers some questions.” I state.

“Questions?”

“Star was asking me about what would I say if a pony asked me out. Now I know the real reason why.”

“Maybe she was just afraid to ask outright, you know padding the ground so to speak.” Silver states. “Why don't you go ask her?”

I freeze again. “A-Are you really telling me to ask your daughter if she was asking me to go out with her!?” Silver nods. “I-I can't.” I answer, lowering my head again. “It just wouldn't be right.”

“What wouldn't be right? You going out with my daughter or you asking the question?”

“Both, I cannot get involved with my client, it's forbidden.” I stand from the couch and stand by the living room window. I stare into the sky as the last dregs of sunlight fade, god I hate autumn. “We have a code Mr Star, my fellow guardians and I, a code we cannot break.”

“What's the phrase you humans say, bullshit? You go about your days protecting Star Trail and then turn around and say that you can't express your feelings because of some code? That's manure Mr Rowe and you know it!”

I flinch at Silvers use of my last name, he only addresses me that way when he is very annoyed or angry with me. I sigh before turning back to him.

“Let's say I did ask Star out on a date, how will others react? I can't put Star through that sort of thing, it wouldn't be fair.”

“Fair? I know for a fact Kenny that my daughter adores you, in more ways than one. If you reject her, how do you think that's going to effect her? It will effect her a lot more than some neigh saying on the streets!”

I go to reply but nothing I can say will trump that, I turn and look out of the window. I regret what I have to say but I have a duty, a purpose, I can't have this distracting me now.

“I'm sorry Mr Star, I can't get involved with Star....” A single tear rolls down my cheek. “...I just can't.” When Silver doesn’t respond I turn, and that's when I feel like a piece of shit. I spot Star and Golden Bank by the living room door staring at me, Star had tears in her eyes. “Star I....”

“Don't...Just...don't....” Star says before running up the stairs again, I hear her bedroom door slam shut.

I feel my heart break, I do love her but if I do I can no longer be her guardian. I walk towards the front door of the house and open the door.

“Kenny, where are you going?” I hear Golden Bank ask.

“Out, I...I can't be here right now.” I walk out the house closing the door behind me, I don't look to Star's bedroom window as I get in my car and drive away. 

I drive for several miles before I stop in the car park of a local store, I grip the wheel tighter before bashing it hard with my fist over and over again. I finally break down resting my head against the steering wheel.
> Chapter 3
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Star Trail sat on her bed, tears were still falling down her cheeks. Star lifts up her smart phone, a specially made one that ponies could use. Tapping the screen with her hoof Star opens the text message service and types in three words.

'I love you'

After selecting Kenny's number in the contacts group Star hovers her hoof over the send button, she hesitates. It's been two hours since Kenny drove off and her heart was still breaking.

“Why Kenny? Why did you say those things? We could have a life together, we would be happy.” Star sniffs and wipes her face with her foreleg. “I need you.”

Putting the phone down Star forgets the screen is still active, as she drops it the screen beeps. Quickly picking the phone back up, Star's eyes go wide as the message service reads.

'Message sent'

“No no no no!”





I sat in my car staring at the sky, now the sun had gone and night has fallen the stars shone brightly. I sighed and closed my eyes, hoping some shut eye would do me good. That is until my phone began to beep, indicating I have received a message. I lifted up the phone and pressed the green button to view the message, my heart started to beat faster as the message was from Star, it was three words.

'I love you'

I lower the phone and stared out my car window. My mind went through several thoughts. Could I love a pony? Why me? Will the G.O.E find out? I looked back at the phone and decided my fate, activating the reply function, I typed.

'I love you too Star'

Hovering over the send button for a few seconds I nodded, the message was sent. After the phone bleeped again to say the message was successfully delivered I put it back in my pocket and started up the car, it was about time I went home.





Star was crying again, she was lying on the bed with her forelegs over her head. She sent that message, why would she be so stupid? Kenny already said he couldn't be with her. Star wept into her forelegs when her phone made a little jingle.

“Huh?” Star picked up her phone and it read.

'Message reply'

Star's breath caught in her throat as she opened the new message, what she read made her heart flutter and her tears stop.

“I love you too Star'

Star squealed and held the phone to her chest, smiling she giggled.

“He loves me!” Star says. “He really does love me!”

Dropping the phone Star runs out onto the landing almost knocking over her mother.

“By Celestia's light Star! What's gotten into you?”

Star stops and turns back to Golden Bank.

“He loves me mum, he really loves me!”

“Who does?”

“Kenny! I accidentally sent a message to him saying I love him, I panicked. I didn't want him to get it but he replied anyway! He said he loved me back!” Star was practically swooning.

“About time!” Golden Bank says. “Seriously that human doesn’t see a good thing if it hit him in the face!”

“Depends on what the good thing was mum.” Star replies giggling.

“You cheeky mare!” Golden states watching as Star runs down the stairs laughing. “Go get him! And never let him go!”

Star runs out the front door and skids to a halt, hoping to sit and wait for Kenny to come back. Star's heart was pumping at a rate she never thought possible. Sitting on her haunches Star's tail was swishing back and forth wildly. Star felt the hairs on her neck stand up as she looked down the street and saw a figure standing in dark clothes just staring at her. At first Star made it seem she didn't see the figure, that came crashing down as she turned and found the figure half the distance closer.

Star watched as the figure walked nearer, she wanted to move but her legs wouldn't budge. As the figure got to the end of her driveway it stopped and turned it's head in her direction. The figure brought it's arm up and pointed towards her, Star felt petrified. The figures hand went to it's neck and slide across it's throat, before the hand pointed back out. Star could hear the figure mutter.

“Soon, my little pony.” The figure turned and disappeared into the shadows.

Star sat afraid and completely frozen, she didn't even react or move when Kenny finally returned home and kneeled in front of her.





After I sent the message I headed home, the drive was filled with my thoughts. How was this going to work? How was I going to explain this? Will I lose my job? I narrowed my eyes as I neared home thinking why should I care? I'm human and humans have emotions, just like ponies do. Their more like us anyway, apart from the body difference. 

I turned the last corner before home and my sight was drawn to a figure wearing all black leaving the street, I snorted, people that wear clothes like that a night are begging to be run over.

I finally reach home and pulled into the driveway, I looked in amazement as Star was sitting outside waiting for me, I also felt something was wrong as she looked like she saw a ghost. I shut off the engine and got out the car, striding over I placed my hands on her shoulders, but even that didn't stir her.

“Star? Star!?” I say, shaking her gently. “What's wrong?” I don't get a response so in light of our new...understanding, I decide to give something a try. I lean in and give Star a kiss, not on the cheek but on the lips. When I start to feel Star push back against my lips I knew I had gotten through.

At first it was weird kissing a pony, the fur was ticklish and it almost made me laugh. However once you got past that it was no different than kissing a human. 

I saw Star close her eyes and one of her hooves came up and stroked my face, I glanced to the front door of the house and noticed Golden Bank and Silver Star standing there. I quickly pulled back as my face began to burn. Silver Star gave me a nod and headed back inside, Golden Bank giggled before following her husband. I looked back to Star and her eyes were still closed, she also had a goofy expression which made me smile. 

I stood up and picked Star off the floor, I carried her bridle style as she leaned into my chest. I never really felt anything like this before, I know when I was growing up I had childhood crushes but this...this was something new.

I heard a sigh from Star and I looked down, crossing into the house I saw Star smile, a smile of joy. I saw Golden and Silver in the living room they both looked to me before Silver smiled.

“She looks tired, maybe you should take her to her room.” Golden states, Silver gives her a glare. “What? She does look tired!”

I nod before heading up stairs, my heart was beating faster the closer I got to her room which is strange considering I’ve been in it countless times. I opened the door by freeing one hand and placed Star down on her bed, I spotted a blanket on a nearby chair and draped it over her form. I turn to leave but stopped and turned back, I lowered my body and kissed star on the forehead.

“Sweet dreams.” I say before walking out and closing the bedroom door behind me.

I walked into the guest room or my room I should say and sat on the bed, I placed my head in my hands and chuckled to myself. I removed my jacket and holsters placing them in my secure lock box by my bed, closing the lid I lay back on my cover and looked at the ceiling, one thought ran through my mind as I closed my eyes.

No matter what tomorrow or the day after brings, everything just got a lot more complicated.
> Chapter 4
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“AHHHH! KENNY! HELP!”

I awoke with a sense of urgency, it was Star screaming. I glance to my clock and it read two thirty five am. I typed in my lock boxes security code and grabbed one of my guns, I checked the clip and found it full. I ran out my room and barged into Stars room, I saw Star huddled in the corner crying wildly.

“Star! What happened?” I noticed her window was open. I rushed over and wrapped my arms around her head, seconds later Silver came in wielding a bat in his teeth. I looked up at both of them. “Did you two hear anything?” I ask, Star still crying into my shoulder.

“No, all we heard was Star screaming.” Silver states, dropping the bat. “What happened Star?”

“He was here!” Star screamed into my shoulder. “He was looking at me, standing by my bed!”

“Who was?” I ask, feeling Star tighten her grip.

“The figure from earlier! He said he was going to get me!” Star breaks down into more tears as Silver arrives by my side.

I let go of Star as Silver takes my place, I pick up my dropped gun and approach the window. I slide up to the edge with my gun held close, as I leaned out the window I thrust my gun outward and check both sides of the window, I also check the front yard just to make sure. Relaxing my stance I stand back and close the window, locking the catch behind me.

I turn to Golden Bank and Silver Star. “Who ever it was is gone now but for Star's safety I believe she should stay with me tonight!” I see Star perk up, and Silver give me a glare. I throw up my hands. “There won't be any funny business, I would feel better if she was in my sight.” Silver looks to Golden and Star's mother nods.

“Very well Kenny, if it means she'll be safe.” Silver states.

I start to walk to Star when I step on something, I reach down and pick up a button of some kind, it was white almost ivory with the back broken off. I look to the window, it must have fallen off the intruder when he fled. I pocket the button and proceed to take Star from Silvers grasp. I lift Star bridle style again and walk out of her room heading for mine. I feel my heart beating faster again as Star leans into me further. Reaching my room I lay Star on my bed covering her form with a blanket. I give her mane a few strokes.

“Kenny, could we talk?”

I turn as Silver stands by my door, I nod as I walk towards him and close my door behind me. I lean against the wall outside my room and pinch the bridge of my nose.

“Are you ok?” Silver asks, sounding somewhat concerned for me.

“Silver Star sir, could I tell you something, but you can't tell anyone else not even your wife.” Silver looks to be in thought for a moment before he frowns and nods. Sighing I look him in the eyes. “I received a communiqué from my commander today and it wasn't good news, apparently three guardians and an Equestrian prince were murdered in South America.”

“In different places?” Silver asks.

“No, the guardians were protecting the prince, but that's not the bad part.” I stand up and look out the landing window. “No one knows their killer and the G.O.E has started an investigation into the affair.”

“What does that mean for you?”

“Nothing, I am to remain with Star Trail and my protection of her carries on.” I turn back to Silver and place my hand on the wall knowing Star is beyond it. “I will guard Star with my life, you have my promise on that!”

“I don't doubt it Kenny but don't think for second that means you can just throw your life away.” Silver walks to me and places a hoof on my shoulder when I kneel down. “You are like a son I never had Kenny and Golden will tell you the same thing, your happiness means a lot to us as well don't forget that.” Silver gives me a smile.

I smile back. “I won't Silver but if it came down to me or Star, you know the one I will choose.” Silver nods before heading back to his bedroom. “I'll see you in the morning, we have more to discuss.”

Silver nods again. “Night Kenny, keep our daughter safe.”

“You know I will.” I reply, pushing open my door and walking inside.

I smile finding Star still asleep as I walk over to the wardrobe and remove a set of cushions and a blanket from it. I approach the chair in the corner of my room and set the blanket down creating a new bed for myself.

“What are you doing?” I turn and see star sitting up looking at me.

“I'm laying out a bed.”

“Oh no you don't!” Star says, patting the bed next to her. “You will sleep here with me and no excuses.” Star shifts over freeing up space on the bed.

I chuckle as I drop my cushions and lay down next to star on my bed. Star drapes the blanket over me and slides up to my side. Star places her head on my chest and puts a foreleg over my belly. I feel my body tense at being this close, I also feel Star's breath flowing over my body and I embrace her with my own arm. Star sighs and is soon fast asleep, I close my eyes as I soon join star in slumber.





A lone figure walks into a bar and gestures a note to the bartender, the bartender takes the note and opens a door behind the bar for the figure. The figure walks passed the bartender into the room beyond, the door is closed behind the figure.

“Your late! Did you do it?” A voice asks.

The figure slams down a knife onto a nearby table.

“I take that as a no then?”

“You can take it anyway you fucking want, I don't give shit.” The figure states, sitting down and taking off his hood revealing his blond hair and white face. “You told me the target was some high profile pony from Equestria, not some middle class pony in the suburbs.” The human says, looking at a wooden desk in the shadows.

The human watches as a pony half his size walk out and give him a glare.

“She was high profile, Star Trail daughter to Silver Star the former head of the Equestrian Army!”

“Didn't look so high to me, two story house, looked pretty normal. Besides she can scream, her damn guardian came running I had to bail.”

“Why should her guardian be of any concern?” The pony asks, following it with a slight scoff. “Your counter part in Brazil didn't have any problem taking out the prince.”

“Yeah well last time I looked I don't have magic and going one on one with a guardian is not my cup of tea. Anyway why aren't you going after some targets, or are you afraid of getting your hooves dirty?” The human asks, smirking.

“My hooves are already dirty, our client wishes to remain anonymous and it's something we will respect.”

“Bullshit! Your just like the others, all talk and no bite!” The human says, jumping up from his seat. “You know what, the next target, you go and kill.” The human states poking the pony in the chest.

“The target hasn't been for filled, you kill Star Trail and then we get another one, that's how it goes.”

“Maybe I don't want to kill her!” The human tenses as he feels a blade slip under his throat.

“Then your no use to us!” The blade slides through the humans neck, cutting of his screams as his body falls to the ground. “Such a waste.” The newcomer states cleaning his knife on the bodies clothes.

“Do you have any idea how long it takes to get blood out of this floor!?” The pony shouts at the humans killer. “But I should have known you would do this Hex!”

“The man was a weak link, he failed and failure is not an option in our business!” The newcomer sits down, pulling out a wrapped parcel. “I however don't fail.”

The pony takes the package and opens it, inside was a cutting, a skin cutting of a cutie mark.

“Was he a problem?” The pony asks.

“No, I wish you would give me something of a challenge, I am bored of these easy jobs.” Hex sighs.

The pony looks to the file on his desk and smiles. “Maybe you can take his failed assignment then.” The pony drops the file onto the lap of Hex. “This one has a guardian!”

Hex licks his lips as he takes out a picture of Star Trail and Kenny walking side by side.

“Delicious!” Hex says, before dropping down the picture and jamming a dagger through Kenny's part of the photo.





I awake as I feel the weight on my left arm shift, I see light pouring through the window, morning has come. I look to my left and see Star has push herself closer into my body trying to block out the sun. I chuckle, then follow it with a yawn. Turning to my clock I find it was eleven forty am, Star was supposed to be at school three hours ago. I wasn't worried though as Star wasn't going to school for a while.

I turned back to Star and nudge her gently.

“Star.” I nudge again. “Star.” I smiled as I leaned down and kissed her on the muzzle.

The effect was immediate as Stars eyes bolt open.

“What! Where am I?”

“Your in my room remember?” I say.

“Oh, yeah.” Star yawns. “What time is it?”

“Eleven forty four.”

Star sits up. “Eleven forty four!? I'm late for school!” Star goes to leave the bed but I stop her and hold her close. “Kenny! Let go! I'm late!”

I chuckle and kiss her again. “No, your not late because your not going school for a few days.”

“What? Why?”

“After resent events I need to visit the G.O.E head quarters in Washington, and your coming with me.”

Star looks at me pleadingly. “But...”

I place a finger on her lips. “No buts, I have to speak to someone and I'm not leaving you here.” I roll out the bed still carrying Star in my arms. I would point out that I was holding her like a young child would hold a cat. I feel Star squirm slightly in my grasp.

“K-Kenny....I'm a little exposed here....” Star says tilting her head up.

I look down and indeed I am given a perfect view of her teats. I lower her back down as my face starts to burn up.

“Sorry Star, I-I didn't realise.” I scratch the back of my head. “Let's just head down stairs, I need to let your parents know about my plans.” I pull out my lock box and put in code, when my box opens I pull out my holsters and put on my pistols. I see Star give me a look. “What?”

“Do you really need to have them on in the house?”

I nod. “When I leave this room these babies...” I pat my guns. “...need to be on my person.”

“But why?”

“Well one of my teachers would say having your guns is like having a condom, 'you would rather have them and not need them than need them and not have them'.” I reply. “Besides they make me feel complete.”

I hear Star giggle. “One. Your teacher was gross and two, what do you mean by complete?”

I shrug. “I can't explain it. I just feel better knowing I have them.” I cross to the door and grab my trench coat off the side, putting it on I turn to Star. “Coming?” Star smiles and exits but not before dragging her tail across my abdomen. I exit behind her only to see Golden Bank outside my room.

“Oh Star! Tail dragging already, you saucy mare.” Golden giggles before walking down the stairs. I look to star and see her face was bright red.

I gesture to the stairs. “Did I miss something?” I hear Star groan before walking after her mother. “Apparently not!” I say, following behind.

Me and Star reach the kitchen to see Golden whispering something in Silvers ear, I see Silver tense then smile broadly before going back to reading his paper. I go to say something but Star shakes her head which causes me to close my mouth. I take  my usual spot at the table and sigh.

“Golden Bank, Silver Star could I have a word?” Silver and Golden both look to me, the latter putting down his paper.

“What is it Kenny?” Golden says, sitting down at the table.

“I have to go to Washington to visit the G.O.E headquarters and I maybe gone a few days.”

“Well, what about Star?” Silver asks. “You can't just leave her here.”

“That is why I’m telling you both, I want Star to come with me.” I leave a pause to gauge their response. “It wouldn't feel right if I left her here.”

“I don't see anything wrong with it.” Golden replies, sipping on a cup. “Do you dear?”

I watch as Silver just stares at me. I look at him back, I know what he is doing, he was trying to see if my intentions were good.

“Nope, Kenny is the best place for Star right now.” Silver looks to Star. “You just stay close to Kenny and never leave his side Star, promise me!”

“I promise dad, I'm safer with him anyway.”

I stand from the table. “I'm sorry to say but if we are to be going, we must leave as soon as possible.”

“What about clothes?” Golden asks. “You can't go without a new set!” Golden leaves the table and exits the kitchen. A few minutes later she returns with a parcel in her mouth. Golden drops the parcel in front of me. “These are for you, I know you don't like receiving gifts from clients but I had them brought over from Equestria. Me and Silver had them custom made, consider them a thank you for looking after our daughter.”

I reach down and pick up the wrapped parcel. “Thank you, I don't really know what to say but...” I look to silver and back to Golden. “But I will keep your daughter safe, no matter the cost to me!”

“Don't you say that!” I turn to see Star glaring at me. “Don't you dare say that! We have only just begun to be a couple and there's no way I'm letting you throw your life away!”

I smirk when Star says couple. I walk over and pick Star up, I give her a kiss on lips before putting her back down. I laugh when I see the smile on her face.

“I won't throw my life away but if it came down to me or you, I have to choose you.” I state. Star was about to say something back but I stopped her. “And there's nothing you can say about it!” I poke her on the nose.

“Fine! But I get to choose the position!” Star replies.

“Position?” I ask.

“For when we consummate our relationship!”

I freeze. “C-Consummate?”

“Do I really have to say it out loud?” Star gives me a deadpan look.

“No but the fact you just came out with it kind of surprises me!” I answer, looking back to a now flustered Golden Bank and Silver who to the best of his ability was trying not to laugh.

“Well, I am an adult you know, I can say these things.” Star replies, walking out of the kitchen. I follow behind after giving Golden and Silver a parting wave.

I tuck the clothes package under my arm and grab my car key's off the rack by the door.

“This trip isn't going to be a problem is it?” Star asks, leaving the house after I open the front door. “I don't want to be a burden.”

“Star, you won't be a burden, I want you to come.” I close the front door. “But I need one thing from you.”

“And what's that?”

“I need you to tell me everything you can remember about....the figure.”

Star looks down as her ears flatten back. “Oh.”

I feel a pang of regret asking but I must know. “If you want to wait then we'll do it when we get to Washington.” I say.

“I..Just need some time ok?” Star says, still looking at the ground.

“Ok, We'll do it later then.” I unlock the car and open the back door, Star however doesn't get in. “Star? Is something wrong?” I ask.

“C-Can I ride up front with you? I always feel uncomfortable in the back.”

I close the back door and smile. “Course you can! I just thought you liked the back seat?”

“Not really, I just kept it up for appearances.” Star looks away and blushes.

I chuckle opening the front passenger door and letting Star jump up on the seat. I pull over the seatbelt and lock it in place.

“Thank you guardian!” Star giggles.

I roll my eyes before closing the car door and heading around to the driver side. I get in and put on my own seatbelt, turning on the ignition I slowly exit the driveway and turn to head out of the street. I could vaguely see Star beside me grinning with excitement.

“I take it you haven't been Washington before?” I ask.

“Never, I have seen pictures but never travelled there.”

“So your a city virgin then?” I laugh.

“That's a gross statement but it's more to the truth than anything, I've been living in Orlando for two and a half years and I have never even been into the city, weird huh?” Star says.

“Well you will now, we have to pass through to reach the highway, just don't go leaning out the window.”

“Ohh this is going to be the best few days of my life! I have you as my coltfriend and now I will see two cities! I'm so giddy right now!”

I smile as I we reach the end of the suburbs, normally I would turn right to the school but this time I turn left and head towards Orlando. I hear Star suddenly gasp next to me.

“Oh my Celestia! We never told Mandy or Bright Prism we were leaving!”

I grin. Reaching down and taking out my phone I switch it on and hand it to Star.

“Their numbers are on there, give them a call.”

Star looks at me. “Why do you have my two best friends numbers on your phone?” I notice Star's glare get tighter.

“Because if I can't find you you're never to far from them.”

“Makes sense yeah....” Star turns red and looks out the window. “I should tell them.”

I nod as Star looks for her friends numbers, I look ahead at the city rapidly approaching. I only had one thought rolling around in my head. 

I hope Francis can help me.
> Chapter 5
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was a little over seven hours into our journey and my ass was getting numb. I looked over to Star and she was sleeping in the backseat, shortly after leaving Orlando Star became tired and went back for a nap. We were now half way to Washington D.C and I was getting nervous. I thought about the figure and how he nearly killed Star, I gripped the steering wheel tighter as I felt anger at my failure. I banged the wheel hard it was loud enough to wake Star.

“Kenny? Are you ok?” Star asks, wiping her face and climbing back into the front seat. “Is something wrong?”

I don't look at her but I reply anyway. “I was just thinking about last night, that person could have killed you! And I wasn't there to stop them!”

“But it wasn't your fault, you didn't know it was going to happen.”

“I know but it still doesn’t make it right! Star from now on we sleep together.”

“Your fast.” Star giggles. “I at least thought you would take me out first.”

I splutter a reply. “N-no not like that! I mean maybe later but I just want you near me at all times, no exceptions.”

“I knew what you meant, I'm just joking with you.” Star says, she looks out the window. “So how far are we?”

“We're about half way there, I might need a break soon though, I can't feel my butt cheeks.”

Star laughs. “Maybe I can help with that.”

“Star please, the sexual stuff can come later, alright?”

“Fine! I'm not a little filly anymore, I have needs!”

I roll my eyes. “I know you ain't Star, I'm not saying you are, but you can't rush these things. Humans don't rush into sexual relationships, well some don't. What I'm trying to say Star is that I want to enjoy what we have and when we finally 'consummate' our union I want it to mean something.” I reach over and stroke her face without looking. “I just don't want a rut or sexual encounter, I want our feelings to be in sync, I want both of us to enjoy it.”

“Are you saying you wouldn't enjoy it now?”

“I don't know, you had a scare last night and I think that is what’s fuelling your desire to rut me, you want to be loved to be held. But if we do it now, the act, your first time will become meaningless. Do you understand?”

“I think I do.” Star lowers her head. “Your right Kenny, I want our first time to be memorable too, I will wait.”

The next twenty minutes is spent in silence as Star just stares out the window at the rolling fields passing by. I smile as I see a services sign up ahead and decide now's the time to stretch our legs.

“There's a service station up ahead, I think we could stretch our legs a bit.” Star just hums an agreement.

Five minutes later I pull into the station, I sighed in relief as it had a small diner attached and it was open.

“Fancy getting something to eat?” I ask Star as I help her out the car.

“Yeah, I'm starving.” Star replies.

I scratch Star's ear as she leans into me.

“Oh look! It's one of those pony lovers!” I turn my head to see two truckers leaning on the front of one of their haulers. “Fucked her yet!?”

I turn my body and I see the truckers face go pale as he sees my badge on my coat. I stride up to the man and into his face.

“I don't like your attitude.” I say glaring at him. “And yes I am a pony lover, as a guardian it is a requirement. I spot a flash of metal beside me and in one move I have one of my guns sunk into the nose of his friend. “One move my friend and you won't be seeing the day end.” I state without turning away from the first trucker, I hear a metal object hit the floor. “Now you are going to apologise to my marefriend here and be on your way, right?”

“I...I'm sorry little pony, I didn't mean to offend you.”

I turn my head to his friend. “You too.” I pull the firing pin on my gun back.

“I'm sorry!” The guy almost squeals.

“Good! Now leave.” The truckers both scramble for their trucks, minutes later they were gone. I put my gun back in my coat and turn to be met by two state troopers with guns out. I tap my badge. “Guardian business.” The two troopers nod and put away their guns, walking back into the diner as me and Star follow after them.

“You didn't have to do that you know, I don't care what others say.” Star says, “but I liked it anyway, turned me on a little.”

I grin. “Glad you did, though I don't know what came over me, what that guy said just boiled me inside. I vowed to protect you Star from enemies and idiots.” Star giggles. “Now I'm hungry, let's get inside.”

I pushed open the diner door and several of the diners patrons look up but quickly go back to their meals. Me and Star walk up to the counter.

“What can I do you for?” A older women asks with a happy demeanour. 

“Let's see....What would you like Star?” I ask, turning to my mare.

“Do you have any dishes without meat?” Star asks the women behind the counter.

“We sure do! We expanded our menu, never no when you pony folks are coming around.” The women points to the menu above the counter. “We have salads of various types, potato, cheese, or just plain ones to name a few, our cook even learned some new recipes from a vegan friend of his. Those dishes are on that menu there.” The women points to a separate menu a few boards down. “All dishes there are meat free alternatives, just encase you want to try some traditional human dishes.”

Star nods. “Thank you.” 

“No problem hun, you just take your time ok?” The women smiles before leaving to serve someone else that entered.

I stared at the menu as Star stared at the meat free alternatives.

“These dishes are all fascinating. I know we ate some human dishes at home but I didn't really know there were so many.”

“I'm not the meat free type so I'll just have a ham sandwich.” I say.

“Ham? That's pig right?” I nod. “In Equestria pigs are used to make fertiliser for crops, no pony would ever think of eating them.” Star shudders.

“Farm animals here ain't like yours back in Equestria, here their not fully sentient, which is why we eat them. Most are bred only for that purpose in some places.” I state. “But I can change my mind if it will make you uncomfortable?”

“No, I'll be fine with it. You go ahead, I have my choice now.”

I nod and get the attention of the waitress again.

“Made up your minds?” The waitress asks.

“Yes we have, I'll have a ham sandwich with mayo and what are you having Star?”

“I'll have the meat free meatball soup please.” Star replies pointing to the meat free board.

“Good choice! I'll be right back with your orders.” The waitress walks away to the back area leaving me and Star to talk.

“I'm really enjoying myself Kenny, I'm sorry if I didn't speak for a while earlier. I was just thinking.”

“All in the past. Though I was quite worried that I said something wrong, thought I might be getting the silent treatment the rest of the trip.”

“I can't stay mad at you Kenny, even if I wanted too.” Star leans closer. “Though I do want to rut your brains out.”

I chuckle. “All in good time my dear, all in good time!”

We both laugh as the diner door rings, I glance back and my smile drops from my face.

“Kenny, what's wrong?” Star turns to see where I'm looking and I see her face go pale.

Standing in the doorway was a man dressed in a black leather coat staring at me, there was a devilish grin on his face.

“Look who it is, a guardian and his mare lover.” The man says, a low cackle leaving his lips. “I was disappointed to hear you had left Orlando but working over your father Star Trail was most enjoyable.” The man walks up to us but stops as I turn on my seat. The man puts up a leather gloved hand. “I'm not here to fight, though I think it would be thrilling to fight you guardian. No, I am here to deliver a message, much to my distaste. The message is this, simply hand over the pony, and walk away guardian. Do that and you go free, don't and you really might want to weigh your options.” The diner door opens again and three leather clad humans enter each carrying a weapon, I smiled as none of them had guns. “And what are you smiling for?”

“Oh nothing!” I reply, “just you have threatened me and my mare without any guns, it's quite the mistake.”

“Not really.” The man states shrugging. “These men are trained to use lethal force without hideous projectile weapons.”

“Hideous projectile weapons? What are you, twelve? Just call them guns.” I say. “And I'm not giving her to you.”

The man sighs. “Very well, I supposed this was to be expected.” The man points to me. “kill him but leave the pony.”

The three men all move to rush me, three shots ring out and slowly the leather clad goons drop to the floor one by one. Their heads were smoking were bullets entered their foreheads. The man looks to me and my two raised guns, I point them towards him. I hear two more guns being pulled and smile as the troopers in the diner have raised their own weapons against my threatener.

“Looks like the odds are against me now.” The man states, seconds later he moves and two knives bury into the throats of the two troopers. “Not anymore.” The man wipes down his coat. “Like I said I didn't come here to fight, I must go now. You have our warning, give her up or die, your choice.” The man goes to press a button on his arm.

“Who are you?” I ask, cocking back the firing pins again on my guns.

“Since we will meet again I am Hex, world famous pony hunter, well, soon to be any way.” The man presses a button and waves as he fades away.

I stand in the diner still holding my guns up to the empty air, my face was snarling in rage. I walked out of the diner and pointed my guns up, I proceeded to unload my weapons while screaming to the sky. When my guns emptied I still kept pressing the trigger, that is until I felt the comfort of a hoof press into my side.

“Kenny, the men inside need help, they are bleeding to death.” 

I look down to Star and her face was a picture of anguish. “Ok Star, I'm sorry, go back inside and I'll get my medical kit from my car.” I place my hand on Star's hoof and give it a rub. Star walks back inside as I put away my guns and head for the car.

Twenty minutes later I managed to stop the bleeding with two Equestrian healing potions, the liquid quickly sealing the two troopers throat wounds. I finished applying bandages to their necks as more troopers and an ambulance arrived to tend to the men.

It was a further hour before we finally left, the witness statements said that me and Star were not the aggressors and had rightly defended ourselves. Heading down the highway we were both quiet, we both had no words to say about what happened. I knew by the night rolling in that we wasn't going to be in Washington tonight, I looked to Star.

“We're not going to be in Washington tonight Star, we have to find a motel for the night.”

Star look back to me. “What if the man finds us again?”

“He won't, he gave me a choice. I have probably two days before they figure out my answer, I think it subtly goes 'screw you'.”

Star smiles and then proceeds to lie her head on my lap, my heart beats faster. I only calm down when I feel Stars breathing get slower, she has fallen asleep. I leave one hand go and stroke Star's mane, which in return I hear her happily sigh. I think back to the man called Hex, what exactly does he want Star for? Who does he work for? But one thing about him made one question stick in my head.

Why did it feel like I knew him?
> Chapter 6
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I smiled as our night was coming to an end, I spotted a motel sign. I nudged Star with my hand as she still slept on my lap. Snorting and yawning Star raised her head.

“Uh? Are we there yet?” Star sat up rubbing her eyes.

I shook my head. “Not yet but it's getting late and I'm getting tired, I don't think I can drive all night.” I yawn as if trying to prove my point. “I spotted a sign for a motel just down the road, I think it will be a good place to stop for the night.”

“If you think so.” I noticed Star was almost unsure.

“Star, he won't come back. Even if he does he won't live to get a second chance.”

“Just like the thugs he brought with him?”

“Just like those thugs...yeah.”

I feel more movement and Star rests her head on my shoulder, a happy sigh leaves her muzzle. My body shudders as I feel her breath tickle my neck. Smiling I spot the motel sign in the darkness and decide my body isn't ready for another five hours of driving. Yawning again I pull into the motel and park up.

Star lifts up her head and proceeds to undo her seatbelt, I grab my wallet out of the glove compartment and check to make sure my guns and in my holsters. I turn to see Star glaring at me or more noticeably my jacket.

“Kenny, I don't want you to take your guns.” Star says causing me to freeze. “I'm scared of them.”

My heart pains as I hear that, all this time I never thought Star was afraid of my guns.

“You know I can't Star, what if someone attacks us or you? How can I protect you if I don't have anything to protect you with?”

“I understand.” Star lowers her head. “But please! Don't bring them to bed with you.”

My face burns for a second. “Bring them to bed with me?”

“Well I'm not sleeping on my own, and it will be our first night together.”

I think about what Star just said and despite it's lusty undertones she was right. This is going to be our first night, alone together, and I wasn't going to fuck it up.

“Fine but I want a promise from you.” I say.

“What?”

“No funny business, I mean it. Our first time is not going to be in a motel bed, it's going to be in a proper bed that's comfortable.”

“And motel beds ain't?” Star asks, raising an eyebrow.

“Trust me, after tonight you will be begging for a proper bed.” I laugh as I climb out the car and walk over to Stars side. I open the door and close it after Star jumps out, “Now let's see about renting a room.” I see Star nod as I look at the motels sign again and it did say Vacancies under it's main sign, which I believed as there were no other cars in the parking lot. “Strange,” I say loud enough to grab Stars attention.

“What's strange?” Star asks as we cross towards the reception.

“This is a heavily used highway, even at night. It should have more business.” I gesture to the empty lot. “But it seems things must be slow.”

“I've never been to a motel before, I'm not sure what's normal.”

I look to the reception and my jaw drops, though it does answer my question as to why the lot is empty. I watch as a unicorn mare stacks some papers in her magic and drops them in a drawer, as I stand there the mare looks up and sees me. The unicorn mare grins broadly and turns to her side pointing at me with a hoof. I don't hear anything as I gesture for Star to follow.

“I guess I know why things are slow here.”

“Why?” I gesture to the now two ponies grinning at us through the window. “Oh.” Star replies spotting them.

I open the door and let Star enter first, I follow after and close the door.

“Welcome!” The unicorn mare says. “Welcome to Equestrala Motel!”

“Hello!” Star smiles back.

“Oh it's nice to see a fellow Equestrian on Earth.” A grey earth pony stallion states, walking out from behind the counter. “My names Astral Light and this is my wife Harmony Light.”

I bow my head. “Nice to meet you I'm Kenny Rowe and this is Star Trail. I'm sorry to ask but I notice you two have the same last name.” I say.

“Yes, we know it's a human custom to have the same last name when you marry, though we didn't marry on Earth we changed it anyway.” Harmony replies.

“I'm sorry I didn't mean anything insulting.”

“No no, that's quite alright, I guess you have come looking for rooms?” Astral asks.

“Yes, we are on our way to Washington D.C, however my body won't last the drive there.” I state.

“Well as you can see we have plenty of vacancies, much to our dismay.” Harmony says, her ears folding back slightly.

“I did notice that, I'm sorry if coming to Earth is not what you thought it was.” I give them a look of pity.

“I will pick up, and it's nice to see a guardian, never thought I would get to.” Astral states as he gets out a key from the locked cabinet behind the counter. “I take it the young lass is your assignment?”

“At first yeah, she was.” I smile as I place my hand on Stars head, she immediately nuzzles my hand. “But it's gone more than that.”

I look to the two ponies and there faces were in a state of shock.

“Was it something I said?”

“It's just you and her are...”

“Special someponies yes.” Star squeals.

The ponies relax, their faces gaining grins again.

“Then you can have the best suit we have.” Astral says, changing his original key for another.

“That won't be necessary.” I say holding up a hand.

“Don't worry about it, you are our first customers in a while and even a couple. I never thought I would see the day a human pairs with a pony.” Harmony says, her face goes pale as she sees the look I'm giving her. “I didn't mean it like that! I'm so sorry! I just meant that it's a good thing, you two look so good together!” Harmony states waving her front hooves.

I walk up to the counter and spot a fridge next to it. The fridge had various drinks including sodas and more expensive champagnes. I opened the door and got out two bottles of pink champagne, I saw the price and didn't think anything about it, the two ponies needed some custom.

“My those are our most expensive wines, are you sure?” Harmony asks, changing glances to the bottles and my face.

“Yes, and I will pay double for the room.” 

“That won't be-”

“I will pay double and I won't hear any complaints.” I pull out my credit card and hand it to Harmony.

Harmony takes my card in her magic and goes to the till.

“That's one night in our best room with two bottles of champagne.” A few taps on the till later and Harmony turns to me. “That's five hundred and forty dollars.”

I nod. “Fine by me.” I watch as Harmony places my card in one of the old credit printing machines and slides the printer back and forth, a few seconds later she hands me back my card. “Thank you.” I add as I take my card back and put it away in my wallet. Grabbing the two bottles, I say thanks again and follow Astral out.

“You didn't have to do that Mr Rowe, me and my wife did know it would be hard coming here but we are glad we did.”

“It was the least I could do, help you get a start anyway.”

“Then I thank you, I just wish other humans were like you Mr Rowe.”

“I take it you didn't have a good welcome to Earth?”

“Far from it, the humans that operated the portal gave us a welcome to be remembered.” Astral look to the ground. “I just wish the welcome was like that everywhere, much to our disbelief most humans don't see us as equals. Then again we shouldn't have really expected your world to like us straight away.”

“You should have seen it when the guardians were first created. We had protests and marches outside our headquarters, humans weren't up to the idea of other humans being servants to ponies.” I reply with a frown as we headed up a flight of stairs.

“You mean humans were not accepting of you?” Star asks, now getting in on the conversation.

“At first no.” I sigh as I continue. “It took 'persuasion' by the G.O.E to keep all the protests to just that, rioting wouldn't have helped any side.”

“I see....Would you be insulted if I asked what the G.O.E did to keep the protests in line?” Astral asks, standing before a room door.

“I wouldn't be insulted but it's not something I like to discuss. I stayed away from the protests and had a really good reason too.” I reply, turning to smile at Star and stroke her mane. “I didn't want anything to do with it, human or not, we are all equal.”

“I'm glad you two have found each other, I hope you have a wonderful future.” Astral states, lowering his head and proceeding to open the motel door. “Now let's get you settled.”

I keep my hand on Star's back as we follow after Astral, walking in I notice how perfect the room is. I stand in awe at the room, never have I seen one so clean and fresh.

“Astral this place is amazing, I've never seen a motel like this.” I say, noticing Star looking around aswell.

“I hope you like the room, me and my wife try to keep everything to Equestrian standards.”

“It shows.” 

Astral continues to show us the room and points out the various utilities, they even had a toilet for humans and a separate one for ponies. After several minutes Astral walks to the door.

“We have Television installed if you like it, if not we also have a selection of uh...risky CD's if you prefer them.”

“Risky?” Star asks.

“He means pornographic DVD's Star, right?”

Astral  nods. “Yes, at first we were against it but when it was shown most motels have them we decided to partake in the tradition. I admit I have seen a few to find out really what they are, let's just say me and the wife have renewed our * cough * relationship.”

I hold up a hand. “I understand Astral, trust me I've seen a few myself.”

“Oh good, I will leave you two alone then.” Placing the room key on the side table by the door Astral turns and leaves closing the door behind him.

“Star would you like-” I stop as I see Star sprawled out on the bed belly up. “Something...to...eat.”

Star giggles. “What's wrong?” Star asks giving me half lidded eyes. “Like what you see?”

Star's tail was swishing about and I knew it was covering the room in her scent, I couldn't help but look at her body. Her front legs were pulled up to her chest and her hind legs were apart giving me full view of what she had to offer. I shook my head trying to clear myself of my sexual thoughts.

I notice Star move and roll over onto her belly.

“I know I promised Kenny, but I can't help it!” Star puts her forelegs over her face. “I want you so badly! I can't help myself!” Star begins to cry. “You must think I'm such a whorse!”

I raise my eyebrow at the question but I knew what a whorse was in Equestrian society, though it confused me as to why they didn't know what porn was.

I crossed the room and took off my jacket, I next unbuckled my holsters and dropped them to the floor. Sitting on the bed and reached for Star and pulled her close, Star wrapped her legs around my neck and cried into my shoulder.

“I would never think of you as a whorse, you are my marefriend now Star. I love you.” I say, keeping my arms around her shaking form.

“I love you too Kenny.” Star lifts her head up and presses her lips to mine.

I return her kiss until we both separate due to much needed air. I lie back and Star rests her head on my chest, I continue to stroke her mane long after we both succumb to sleep.
> Chapter 7
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I was dreaming. That much I know, how do I know? Well let's just say I am ploughing Star from behind and I'm dressed in a suit. Why? I just don't fucking know! It's a dream! It's not supposed to make sense! Though the ploughing of Star pretty much is self explanatory.

I was currently smiling as I lay in bed with my warm marefriend when I get several quick pokes in my ribs.

“Ugh, Wha..?” I say, waking up. My eyes focus on Star, a frantic look on her face. “Star what-” Star puts a hoof over my mouth.

“Shhh!” She whispers, pointing to the room window. I follow her hoof and spot a shadow lingering outside the room. “I think someone's out there.” Star shrinks down and starts to shiver.

“Stay here.” I whisper, Star nods. I reach down and get one of my guns from my holster, I slowly pull the firing pin back and stand up.

“Careful.” Star whispers from her hiding spot under the covers.

I walk over to the door and slide up to the wall next to it, the doorknob starts to rattle, I hear a subtle click as the lock was removed. I put a finger to my lips and gesture for Star to keep low. The door slowly opens and a silver gun points through first, followed by a head, seconds later my gun touches the heads temple.

“Drop the gun or I drop you!” The figure drops the gun and stiffens. “Now walk in slowly, no sudden movements.” I watch as the figure walks in and I instantly recognise him. “Francis?”

The figure turns. “Kenny? Holy shit! Your not dead!”

Locking the door again I put a chair against the doorknob.

“Francis what the fuck are you doing here?”

“I found you with this.” Francis pulls out a tracker device. “All guardians were fitted with trackers when you graduated. I have come to remove yours.”

“Why?”

“Kenny you have no idea what's going on do you?” Francis takes out another piece of kit and starts to wave a rod over me. “The G.O.E is fucked and I mean royally. Guardians are being killed all over the world, we lost twelve in four days.”

“What about their equestrian assignments?” I ask, as the rod starts bleeping.

“Dead too,” Francis puts away the rod and pulls out a stun gun looking device. “Look the someone or something is tracking our guardians through their implants, because you're my friend I have come to remove yours.” He holds up the gun like device. “This will deliver a shock that will permanently disable your tracker. Though it will hurt like hell for several seconds.”

“Fuck it! Do it!” I seize up as Francis presses the device against my leg and presses a red button. Pain shoots up my leg and across my body. After ten seconds Francis takes the device away leaving me collapse to the floor.

“How do you feel?”

“Like shit.” I grind my teeth, I was also happy Star hasn't come out of her hiding place.

“Where your assignment?” Francis asks looking around the room.

“Nearby.” I reply, sliding up and pressing my back against the wall. “How long till the effect wears off?”

“Only a few minutes.” Francis sighs. “Look Kenny, I don't know what's happening but the G.O.E....Strange things are taking place, it's not the same, everyone is on edge. I suggest you lay low for now, here take these.” Francis pulls out two tickets and places them beside me.

“What are they for?”

“Their tickets...to Equestria.”

I sat there in shock. “Equestria?”

Francis nods. “I've already sent some guardians there, Princess Celestia and her Valkyrie have promised to keep you safe.” Francis puts and hand on my shoulder. “Please my friend, go to Equestria and wait till this blows over.”

“What about my ponies parents?”

“There's nothing you can do for them, they won't be targets as long as you stay away from them.”

“Francis my assignment is the target.”

“What?”

“We had this guy called Hex try and take her from me, we aren't the targets the Equestrians are.”

Francis rubs his chin. “Then this changes everything but you can't worry about that for now. Go to Washington and use the tickets, get out while you still can.” Francis picks up has kit and heads for the door. “I suggest you leave tonight Kenny, the sooner the better.” And on that note my friend unlocks the door and leaves, allowing me to think about what he said.

“I-Is he gone?” Star pokes out her head from the covers.

“Yes, he gone.”

“Who was he?”

“The person we made this trip for.”

“Oh, what are those tickets for?” Star asks, noticing the tickets on the floor.

I pick the tickets up and smile. “I might get to see Equestria after all.” I stand up feeling my body coming back. “Their tickets for the portal, to go to Equestria.”

“You mean to go back home?” Star started to smile.

I nod. “Yup, Francis gave them to me said the G.O.E is in trouble and I should take you to Equestria to lay low.”

“Lay low? Will we be safer in Equestria.”

“Safer than here on Earth.” I look out the window and spot Francis getting in a car and driving off. “We can't stay here till morning, Star we need to get some rest. We leave in three hours.”





Hex was mad, the guardian had killed his best men and now he was summoned to the big cheese. Hex was not a fearful man, he had done shit that no one could live through and survive with their mind intact. The elevator slows down and stops at the top floor.

“Fucking guy and his high office.” Hex grumbles.

Walking down a long corridor Hex spots two guys dressed in leather jackets guarding a double door, with a flick of his hand he gestures for them to move. Much to his amusement they give him a narrow glare then step aside.

Hex opens the double doors and strides inside, he knew the procedure and just sat in the chair near the large wooden desk in the centre.

“What did I say last time about not returning until the job is completed?”

Hex knew the voice and even he quivered in it's presence.

“This one is tougher than I thought.” Hex replies. “This guardian is more skilled than I realised.” The large chair in front of Hex turned to face him, a large black haired unicorn sitting in it's embrace.

Hex composed himself better than anyone else could in the same room as the 'boss' or more importantly the 'king'. The pony stared back at him as though in deep thought.

“I want you to continue the hunt for this guardian and I want him stopped, his quarry must not survive and make it back to Equestria. Do I make myself clear?”

Hex stood up and walked towards the exit, opening the doors Hex left before turning and grinning to the pony.

“Crystal...Sombra.” Hex closes the doors.





Sombra turned his chair back around and stared out the window again, he enjoyed watching the humans go about their daily lives, it gave him nasty thoughts. Sombra looked up at the time piece on the wall and sighed before smiling. This guardian was a fool. He was protecting probably the most important pony this side of the portal and he had no idea who she really is. Sombra chuckled as his horn glows, his body morphs to resemble a oldish human wearing the uniform of the G.O.E.

Turning to face his desk Sombra reaches over and activates a nearby box on his desk.

“Yes commander?”

“Can you bring me Guardian Larson, I have a job for him.” 

“Yes sir. Anything else?”

“No that will be all.” Sombra flicks off the box and leans on his desk, a small laugh escapes his lips.





“Kenny why do I have to wear these?” Star asks, looking at her reflection in a mirror. She was wearing a borrowed coat and hat from the motel owners, now Star did not have the best sense in fashion but even a red hat with a green coat was pushing it. “It looks so...gaudy.”

I laugh. “Star it's so no one recognises you when we are out, oh that reminds me.”

I walk into the bathroom and grab a kit I found in the medicine cupboard, I bent down to Star's flank and proceeded to cover her cutie mark in a foundation the same colour as her coat.

“Hey what are you doing!?” Star shouts walking away from me. “That's my cutie mark!”

“Yes but what's the point of covering you up if your cutie mark stands out for miles. Now hold still, it won't be covered up permanently it's just for our trip.” I say, walking forward and applying the rest of the make up. “There, that's better.” I stand up and chuck the foundation on the bed. “Besides this isn't the weirdest thing I’ve caught you wearing.”

I laugh when Star's face goes bright red.

“You said you wasn't going to mention that again.”

“Oh come on! The cute little cheerleader uniform, it was nice.” I reply.

“It lifted my tail up too much, you could see my bits.”

I kiss Star on the cheek. “And that's why it was cute.” I smile as I pull away leaving Star blushing heavily in her disguise. I clap my hands. “Now let's get going, if we want to get to the portal before anyone finds out we've gone.” I lift up my bag and Star's, walking out the motel door I look up at the moon. “Sure is nice tonight.”

Star looks up. “I wonder if the princess is still up there?” Star glances to me and notices my raised eyebrow. “Oh that's right you don't know.” Star looks back to the moon. “Well it's something Princess Celestia doesn't really discuss, about a thousand years ago Celestia's sister Princess Luna got possessed by some shadow spirit, she went crazy and Celestia had to imprison her on the moon.” Star turns back to me. “There was proficy that stated Luna was supposed to return to Equestria three years ago but the event never happened, Princess Celestia has kept a keen eye on the moon ever since.”

I whistle. “Wow, now that's some info right there.” I blink a few times. “I think we should leave now.” I walk with Star to my car, after getting Star settle in to her seat I walk over to the reception and place the key's into the mail slot as the front desk was closed. Returning to the car I jump in to the drivers seat and scratch Star behind the ears. I start the cars ignition and pull out of the motel, I look at the cities lights in the distance and wonder just how fucked up the G.O.E really is?
> Chapter 8
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Washington D.C. It's been awhile since I have been here. I stood in front of the G.O.E and contemplated how me and Star was going to get through the portal undetected, because if what Francis said was true then just walking in was not going to be easy.

“Kenny, are we going in?” Star asks.

I turn my gaze to her. “Not yet, it might be difficult to enter the portal chamber.”

“Why?”

“Do you remember what my friend told me in the hotel room?”

“Not all of it.” Star replies.

“He told me something is going on in the G.O.E, and it might not be good things.” I turn away and walk down the street, Star close at my heels. “We can't just walk into the G.O.E.” I sigh before turning to Star. “I have an idea but it could have a slim chance of failing.”

Star smiles. “It can't be worse than the current situation, right?”

I smile back. “No, it won't. I just hope she's still living here.”

“She?” Star asks.

“Yeah. Remember the time I said some guardians got to go to Equestria?” Star nods. “Well this guardian came back and she brought something back with her, and the device could be our only salvation.”

“What is it?”

“You'll have to wait and see.” I say, tapping Star on the nose.

It took the best part of three hours to find the guardian did in fact still live in Washington, the worst part was that she lived the other side of the city. Fun times.

Star and I exit the taxi and I pay the driver. I step beside Star as we look up at a house three stories high and a driveway full of cars.

“Ok, I wasn't expecting this.” I state, placing my hands on my hips.

“It's big.” Star says, her eyes widening.

I look to the front gate and notice a guard sitting in a booth, a private guard no doubt. I walk up to the booth with Star in tow and the guard looks up.

“Can I help you?” The guard asks in a gruff voice.

“I need to speak with Gesabelle, it's urgent.” I reply.

“And you are?” The guard questions.

“I'm Kenny Rowe, a fellow guardian.”

“Oh, your one of those, just a second.”

I watch the guard pick up a phone and type in a number after saying a few words the guard leans out the booth.

“What is it regarding?”

“Just tell her, the crystal shines at home.”

I hear the guard speak the words and then drop the phone.

“Madam Gesabelle will speak with you, go up the road and another guard will allow you access.” The guard says, opening the gate with a button press. “No funny business guardian.”

I hold up my hands. “I wouldn't dream of it. Me and Gesabelle go way back.”

The guard grunts as me and Star pass through the gate and head for the house. We approach the door and two guards exit holding up assault rifles.

“Hold!” The first guard says. “No weapons in the house, unless authorised.”

I pull out my two pistols and hand them over, I then reach down and take off my small holster. The guards take my weapons and move to Star who shrinks back.

I lean to Star. “It's ok, just take off the coat and then we can enter.”

Star nods and removes her coat, revealing she had nothing concealed. The guards lower their guns and gesture for us to follow.

“I'm sorry for the security Mr Rowe.”

I look up to a large stair case and see Gesabelle dressed in a white gown.

“Looking good as always Gesabelle.” I reply, bowing my head.

Gesabelle smiles as she turns her gaze to Star. “And who's your companion?”

“May I introduce my marefriend, Star Trail.”

“Did I hear correctly? Marefriend?” Gesabelle asks with a hint of mischief.

“You heard correct.”

“Nice to meet you Star Trail.” Gesabelle states holding out a hand for Star to shake.

“Pleasure to meet you too, Madam Gesabelle.” Star replies, shaking Gesabelle's hand.

“So polite, you have a keeper here Kenny.” I blush. “Now let's retire to the study, I believe you have some unwelcome news for me.”

“I do. You might want I drink for this.”

We all sat in the study of Gesabelle's mansion and Gesabelle looked like she was going to be sick.

“Killing ponies? Here on Earth?” Gesabelle asks, her hands shaking.

“Yes, and I believe the G.O.E is involved.” I reply.

“I don't understand, why?”

“I haven't a clue, but me and Star need to get to Equestria and your device is the only way.” I say.

“But it was given in good faith, only to be used in an emergency.” Gesabelle says.

“And ponies dying on Earth from being murdered, that's not an emergency.” Star says, calmly.

“I...I guess it is. Just let me get it.” Gesabelle gets up and heads to a cabinet on the far wall, removing a fake panel she pulls out a parcel wrapped in blue silk. Walking over Gesabelle sets it down and gestures to it. “Here it is, I just hope the princess still listens, it's been two years.”

“She won't give anyone something like this and not keep an ear out.” I state, leaning forward and removing the silk wrap. I pick up the gem that was held within and hold it in my hand. “Here goes.” I say, as I tap the gem with my free hand and place it on the table.

The gem buzzes for almost three minutes. 

“She's not there.” Gesabelle says her tone worried.

The gem then suddenly stops buzzing and a white flash of light bursts out of the gem, we all cover our eyes until the light fades. We all stare as right before us a magical image of Princess Celestia looks down on us.

“My human friends, I answered the call as quickly as I could. Is everything well?”

I stand up and bow to Celestia's image. “Princess my name is....

“Kenny Rowe, yes I know. I take it that your pony companion is Star Trail?”

“You know me your majesty?” Star asks bowing.

“Oh yes, I know all of you quite well.” 

“Princess, I know I have no right but I have a request to make.” I say.

“I know. You need to get to Equestria but you cannot afford to trust the one's in charge.”

I kneel there stunned. My mind unable to respond, thankfully Star came to my rescue.

“You know?”

“Yes. I have known about the situation for some time, though I didn't think any guardians in the G.O.E still favoured Equestria.” Celestia states. “I have however prepared for a meeting of this degree.”

I watch Celestia turn to someone out of sight and nod. Celestia then steps out of the way and a new pony steps into the image, but it was Celestia who continues to speak.

“This is my most trusted agent here in Equestria Mr Rowe, Senior Valkyrie Twilight Sparkle.”

“Greetings Mr Rowe, I have heard good things about you.” The new pony says, bowing her head. “My team is ready and eager to escort you out of your world and into ours. Though it may not be as easy.”

“I didn't think it would be. It is also an honour to work with you, I have heard many good things about the Valkyries.” I say.

The gem shifts image back to Celestia.

“Mister Rowe, my Valkyries can get you to us here in Canterlot but you must get to the portal there, I will leave that in your capable hands.”

“I understand princess, I will contact you when we are ready.” I state, standing back up.

“Good luck Mister Rowe, you will need it.” The gem then fades and the image disappears.

“I can't believe it.” Gesabelle says. “Your really going against the G.O.E?”

“I have to Gesabelle, I have to get Star back to Equestria and if I have to ruffle some feathers then so be it.” I walk to the rooms exit and Gesabelle grabs my arms.

“Well if you going to storm the portal room then your going to need more firepower.”

I watch as Gesabelle walks to a wall and places her hand on the surface. I gasp as the wall opens to reveal a hidden room, Gesabelle steps out the way and gestures for me to enter. I walk forward into the room and my eyes widen as rows of guns are all around me.

“Take what you need my friend.” Gesabelle says. “I don't need them.”

I turn to Gesabelle and we share a warriors grip.

“Thank you.”

“Anytime, now hurry. If the G.O.E are after you they will know of me, you may not have much time.”

I nod and proceed to pick weapons of the racks, when I finish I was more armed than Rambo. I walk to Gesabelle and place my hand on her shoulder.

“I'll see you again Gesabelle and thanks for every thing.”

Gesabelle places her hand on mine. “Go, protect your marefriend.”

I give Gesabelle one more smile and leave with Star in tow, I had to keep a calm head for the hours to come because as of right now...I was rogue.
> Chapter 9
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I sat at the table and counted off my weapons for the seventh time, my heart was beating hard and I could see Star wasn't fairing any better. I picked up an empty magazine and started to load the bullets one at a time, I counted each round as it went in.

“It's going to get messy, isn't it?” 

I load the last round into the magazine and put it down. “I'm not going to lie to you Star, it will get messy and some people are going to die.” I pick up a large combat knife and stand up, I walk over to Star and hold the knife handle first to her. “I want you to have this.”

“I don't want it.” Star looks away. “I'm not a killer.”

“I know your not but I want you to have it anyway.”

“Why?” Star looks me in the eyes.

“Same premise when you asked me why I always wear my guns.” I tap my jackets side. “Please, you don't even have to use it, just having it on you will calm most of my fears.” I give Star a smile which she returns. Star extends out a hoof and takes the knife giving it a little look and then tucking it into her dress. “Thank you.” I walk back over to the table and pick up the weapons one by one, loading magazines as I go and checking to make sure each gun was fully operable.

“I have a bad feeling about this.” Star says sliding off the couch she was on. “I have a feeling we won't make it.”

I sigh. “We will make it Star, I promise you that. I will get to see Equestria and you will get to go home.” Star walks over to me and steps up onto my lap, I stare into her eyes. “Damn you are beautiful.”

Star blushes. “Thanks, I love you Kenny.”

I brush Star's mane out of her eyes and smile. “I love you too.” I kiss Star on the lips and she pushes back. We break the kiss and I look out the window. “It's getting dark, we should move.”

Star nods and backs away, I pick up the guns on the table fitting in magazines. I make sure each gun was ready and cocked before I placed them all on my person. I picked up the large assault rifle from the table and fitted in a new clip, I tucked it under my arm hiding it in my jacket.

“Will they find all those weapons?” Star asks as I head for the door.

I stop and look back. “Oh most certainly.” I grin as I opened the apartments door.

“Then why are you wearing them?”

“Because when they do find them all hell and shit is going to break loose.” I reply.

“Maybe they’re not all bad, maybe some are still your friends.” Star says, taking up a position by my side as we descend the building.

“Star, I wish I could believe that. But I won't.” I look down to the floor and close my eyes. “The guardians in the building are going to be very loyal to the commander, if he is compromised then the whole building will be against us.” I raise my head to smile at star. “Princess Celestia is counting on me to get you home safely, it's my purpose until death. If I have to fight my former friends to do that then so be it!” I turn back to face forward and continue down the stairs, Star follows silently behind.





It takes just a few minutes to get to the building and at this time the sun was almost down, the day shift inside should be clearing and minimal security should be present. However I came prepared for the fact that they knew I was coming and they might make it harder for me to get to the portal.

Star and I walked up to the door and two staff members came out, they gave me a look and my pony companion before saluting me and carrying on. I saluted back and pushed the door open for Star to walk through, I quickly looked back at the city knowing this is going to be my last time I would see it for quiet some time.

“Are you ok sir?”

I whip my head back around as a security guard was looking at me from the main desk.

“Yes, I'm fine. Maybe you can tell me, who's on portal duty tonight?” I ask.

“Oh I'm sorry but the portal is closed due to an anomaly in the particle conversion beam, maintenance is working on it now. If you wish you could wait but I’m not sure how long it will be down.”

I frowned as I leant on the desk, Star waited patiently nearby.

“Paying you much for saying that is he?” I say with a slight growl.

“Sir? I have-”

“Don't bullshit me, there's nothing wrong with the portal is there?”

The security guard looks around before leaning in.

“They know you are coming, twenty guys went down to the chamber today, they haven't come back up.”

“Why are you telling me this, you could just lie again.”

“Something not right here, hasn't been for some time. The commander doesn't come down from his office anymore.” The security guard places his hand on the table and slides a card to me. “This will get you pass some of the doors leading down, the portal chamber door will only open with command authorisation.” I take the card and place it in my pocket, I nod my thanks and turn to walk away. “Good luck sir.”

I turn back and give the security guard a slight smile, I pull open my coat and show him my arsenal of weapons tucked away.

“I don't need it.” I reply before walking towards the stairs that lead down into the chamber.





The security guard watches the Guardian with his pony escort pass through the doors leading down into the portal chamber, when the guardian was out of sight he flips a switch on his desk.

“Main desk to commander, he's arrived.”

There was a small cackle from a speaker in the desk.

“Good, you have done well, please close the building. I will deal with the traitor myself.”

“Understood.” The security guard replies, flicking off the switch.

The G.O.E commander releases his finger from the button on his desk and smiles.

“It seems he was stupid enough to come...Gesabelle.” The commander turns his head and grins at his prisoner. “And there you were praying he wouldn't.”

“You'll never stop him...Sombra.” Gesabelle replies, a small smile gracing her face.

“So you know who I am?”

“Of course, you don't think I'm that stupid do you? I had you pegged the moment you started to call guardians back from Equestria. Did you honestly think no one would notice?”

“I admit I assumed it would pass by any noticeable organisation but...I am not surprised.” The commander grins and his eyes start to glow bright, within seconds a pony with green eyes and red irises stands in his place. “Ah, it is nice to be back in my own form.”

“You're still a murderer!” Gesabelle shouts.

“Yes, I cannot deny that. I would ramble about my plan but I have watched too many of your television shows to know that every bad guy that rambles, fails. So before I kill you I want you to know this...I will kill this guardian and then when all this blows over Equestria, will be mine!”

Gesabelle flinches when she sees the pony move, her brain takes almost a minute to realise she has a foot long horn sticking through her chest. Gesabelle coughs out a bubble of blood as the horn is removed, she looks down to the hole in her chest and the blood pouring out her body. Gesabelle makes a sound similar to a chuckle before her head finally drops and her body drains of life.

Sombra watches Gesabelle look at the hole his horn had punched through her chest, to his surprise she chuckles before her head hangs down and her life leaves her forever. Sombra grins as the door to his office opens and Hex enters, Sombra sees Hex give Gesabelle's corpse a quick glance but no emotion was showed as Hex then sat down heavily on the couch in the office.

“I should be down there.” Hex states. “If he escapes...”

“He won't escape, the plan is perfect but I sense doubt in you.” Sombra replies.

Hex frowns. “You keep your sensing shit to yourself. What's in my head is for me only, I just want the guardian.”

“And you will my friend.” Sombra cackles and then it turns into full blown laughter.

“What are you laughing about?” Hex asks, digging out his finger nails with his knife.

“It's ironic.” Sombra answers when he finally calms down.

“What is?”

“Princess Celestia said when she tried to kill me that I would never find a friend, but you Hex are more than that. What is that phrase that humans say? Ah yes, you're more than my friend Hex, you're...A kindred spirit.”

Hex laughs. “You got that right!” Hex answers, throwing his knife across the room and into the far wall hitting the emblem of the G.O.E dead centre. Hex laughs again as Sombra joins him, the guardians standing outside the door shiver as the sounds of hell echo out the door.
> Chapter 10
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I slide sideways down the corridor with one of my pistols held in my right hand, Star followed close but I could tell she was scared out of her mind. I came to the tenth door of our trip through the office area one floor up from the portal.

“Why isn't there any ponies down here, or humans?” I pause and turn to Star. “Sorry Kenny, just thinking aloud.”

“No, you have a good question there Star, this is the processing area of the portal where any new ponies are questioned and given the proper papers to visit Earth. This place should be packed with workers or travellers.” I reply, opening the door and checking the room, it was another office. “Where is everyone?” I ask to no-one.

Star and I continue onward checking rooms before we come to the stairs leading down to the portal. I stop Star with a hand and give my gear a check.

“What's wrong?” Star asks.

I give my assault rifle one last check before replying. “Something's not right, this is the most heavily guarded area in the building yet I haven't seen a single guard, either the security has lapsed or something is amiss.”

“You think they have the staff locked up somewhere?” Star asks.

I shake my head. “That would require guards to watch them, so we should have met them by now. I have a bad feeling about this.”

“Hello....?” I spin around to find where the voice came from, it was weak like a whisper. “U-Up here...” I look up to spot two red eyes looking down at me from an over head vent. “Please don't shoot me!”

“Come down, I won't shoot you.” I put down my pistol.

“Ok...just don't hurt me...” The vent pops off it's gate and falls, I grab the metal in the air so it didn't hit the floor and a young pony jumps down. I realise the pony is a filly and must be about six to seven years of age.

“It's just a filly.” Star says walking forward. “Hello my name is Star Trail, this is Kenny. What's your name?”

“S-Shimmer Quartz....” The filly replies.

“Shimmer Quartz? You're a crystal pony?” I ask putting my guns away.

“Y-you know about crystal ponies?” The filly asks as her ears perk up.

I nod and crouch down. “My training consisted of learning about all types of ponies, even Thestrals.”

The filly smiles and runs into my arms. I wrap my arms around her as the filly starts to cry. I look to Star and Star just shrugs. I pull the filly away from my embrace and look into her eyes, the filly wipes her nose with a hoof.

“Shimmer can you tell me what happened here? Where is your family?” I ask, wiping a thumb under her eyes.

“The guards like you came and made them leave. I got separated from my mum, they put her into the portal thing.” The filly starts to tear up again. “I miss my mum!”

I pull the filly into my embrace again and look to Star. “We need to get to the portal Star. It won't be easy but I want you to take care of Shimmer Quartz.”

“What about the guardians?” Star asks. “They are your people.”

I stand up and place Shimmer on Stars back, I pull out my pistols and give them one last check. I look back to Star and notice the worry on her face.

“If they're against me Star, they're no longer guardians.” I turn and start to head for the final set of stairs leading to the portal room.





Star placed a hoof on my leg, I reached down and placed my hand on her head without looking. I felt Star nuzzle my hand followed by a second nuzzle from Shimmer. I turn and look at them both, they were afraid that much was certain but I had to be strong not only for Star but for the filly as well. I turn back to the large blast door that was closed, the last obstacle before the hardest test of my life. I sighed and pulled out the security card, I swiped the card in the reader by the door and the door started to unlock and open.

I stood in the doorway of the portal room the bluish glow of the active portal shimmering across the room like water reflection. I never got time to be in awe as my gaze was fixed on the twenty figures standing before the portal and the ten ponies sitting in front of them. I growled in my throat when I saw the guardians were pointing there guns at the ponies heads.

“Look what we have here, the lost sheep has returned home.” I turn my gaze to see the same person that attacked me at the diner. “I would have preferred to kill you myself but our gracious leader has asked me to at least give you a chance to save yourself.” I watch as the figure walks to one of the ponies a mare and drags a finger across her muzzle. “I have to admit if I was of the four legged variety I would find these ponies quite the lookers.” The man turns to smile at me. “Then again you've already taken one as your partner haven't you?”

I notice nearly all of the guardians present look shocked. “So what?” I reply. “These ponies are no different from us or is the human race so far gone that we can't see past our own racist ways?”

The figure thrusts out his right hand a knife suddenly appearing in his grasp. “No! They are not like us! They are animals! Animals that must be control or destroyed!” In the seconds following his statement and to my horror the figure puts the knife to the mares throat and slices it open. I watch as the mares face turns to terror as her body falls to the floor and her life blood streams out of her neck.

The guardians look at the mare in genuine shock as she bleeds out before them. I see some of the guardians start to shake and they all begin to look confused.

“Guardians! Target Guardian zero zero one!” The figure says. I watch as the guardians all raise their guns and target me. “Kill him!”

I stand there as nothing happens. I pull out my second pistol and raise it towards them.

“I said shoot him!” The man shouts when the guardians make no movement. “Shoot you fuckers!” When the guardians start to lower their weapons the figure turns to me. “Fuck this! I'll do it myself!”

I suddenly duck and pull Star and Shimmer into cover behind a console as the first bullets pass where my head was.

“Stay down! When you have a chance get to the portal and try to take the ponies with you!” I tell Star.

“No! What about you!?” Star shouts.

“I'll be right behind you I promise!” I lean forward and give Star a kiss. I break the kiss and leaning out I return fire on my attacker forcing him to dive into his own cover. As I fire at his cover I notice the guardians are herding the ponies into the portal and some even give me looks before following after them.

I get up and run to another piece of cover as more bullets nick at my heels. One bullet grazes my leg but I push out the pain.

“Did that hurt Kenny!?” The figure laughs. “Stick your head out I'll end it quickly!”

“Who is this guy?” I ask myself. “Why don't you come get me you prick, see how that goes!” I hear the figure laugh again as more rounds hit my cover. I reload my pistols and instantly rise out of my cover firing as I run towards him. My hope was to get close to him, a guardians greatest strength was our close combat abilities. I reach his cover only to find he wasn't there, I quickly turn as a flash of metal catches my eye. I manage to dodge my attackers first swipe but his second cuts my shoulder, I raise up a pistol only for him to knock it out of my grasp.

I block his next swing dropping my second pistol. I continue to block his attacks with my hands and arms. I suffer several cuts and slashes to my arms but I take no notice as I grab his knife hand and knock the small blade out of his grip. This advantage doesn't last long as he twists his hand and breaks my hold on his wrist, he spins around kicking me in the chest. I stumble back and hit a large console behind me, I grab my chest for a few seconds to long as my attacker lunges at me again this time plunging a larger blade into my side.

I cry out as the blade sinks into my flesh, I grab his arms preventing the blade from going deeper. I look into his face and see only pleasure and psychotic happiness. I feel the blade start to sink deeper as my strength starts to fail. I cry out again in pain.

“How does it feel to throw your life away for these creatures? You pony lover!”

I frown and grind my teeth looking straight into his eyes I use what was left of my strength to slowly pull his hand away. He looks to me in shock seconds before something hits him and he flies across the room hitting the far wall. I fall to my knees clutching my side, I feel someone touch my side and look up. I see a pony in gold armour smiling down at me.

“Mr Rowe? Don't worry I have you.” The pony says as I get lifted by an unseen force.

“S-Star....Where...” I croak out as I feel myself starting to blackout.

“Don't worry we have her, she's safe.” I turn my head to see several other ponies standing around the portal all wearing the same gold armour. “Berry! Get ready to close the portal plant charges!” I watch as an armoured pony runs to every console and places a glowing blue device to each one before running back. 

“Charges set Captain! Two minutes count!”

“OK everypony! Let's go home!” I hear the armoured pony lifting me up shout as my vision was suddenly blinded by a blue light.

I blank out for several seconds and come around just as I get placed on a stone floor, a pony comes up to me and checks my wound before calling for a medic. I watch as a gold armoured pony takes off a helmet to reveal a purple earth pony mare. I watch as she raises up her hoof and counts down to zero went her hoof drops the portal suddenly shuts down and the large gem above the portal device goes dim.

“Oh yeah! I love a good snatch and grab rescue.” The mare says before high hoofing another gold armoured pony.

I turn my head as I feel myself get lifted off the floor and placed on something soft, I see the pony from before press something into my wound. I feel a hoof touch my cheek and turn my head just in time to see Star's smiling face all three seconds before I finally give in to the pain and pass out. 
> Chapter 11
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I slowly awake to the sound of marching and orders being shouted. I open my eyes and it was at that moment my body decided to make everything hurt all at once. I grab my chest and feel the bandages covering my midsection, I reach down and touch the area where the blade sunk in. I wince at the tenderness of the skin and muscle but I sigh in relief when I find the wound was closed.

“Equestrian potions at their best.” I mutter.

I look around and notice I'm in a hospital room complete with a heart monitor and a defibrillator in the corner. I snap my head to the only door in the room when it opens and an earth pony nurse enters backwards pulling a card in her mouth. I watch with a smile when she takes a blood pressure tester off the cart and turns. The nurse jumps and drops the tester when she sees I'm awake and staring at her.

“Mr Rowe! You're awake!”

“Would seem that way.” I reply attempting to sit up.

The nurse swiftly steps up to the bed and holds me still. “Mr Rowe you shouldn't move. Equestrian potions can heal you but the effect isn't total. The area around the wound is still tender and can still rupture.”

I stop my squirming and give in to the nurses advice. I wasn't a hundred percent anyway and my body did ache quite a bit. I give her a smile and a nod.

“Guess I'm not going anywhere for a while?” I ask.

“Not for a couple of days until the potion and magical treatment can fully be administered.”

I nod before my eyes widen. “Star! Where is she!? Is she OK!?”

The nurse smiles. “Your marefriend is fine, she is currently with the princesses and will be here shortly.” A knock comes from the rooms door. “Ah, speak of the pony!” The nurse crosses the room but it wasn't Star on the other side when it opens. I remember the pony from the call at Gesabelles place.

“Valkyrie Sparkle?” I say, getting the pony in question to smile at me. “It's ok nurse, I would like to speak with her.”

The nurse nods. “Very well I shall leave you two in private.” The nurse leaves and Valkyrie Sparkle enters closing the door behind her.

“How are you feeling?”

“Alive thanks to you Miss Sparkle.” I reply.

“Just call me Twilight, everypony else does.”

I nod. “OK, Twilight.” I say getting her to laugh. “I guess this isn't a social call?”

Twilight thinks for a second before shrugging. “I was asked to see how you are recovering but I do have some questions for you?”

“Like what?”

“We have several Guardians in custody that came through the portal before you, they are your people so the princesses have decided their fate to be given to you.”

“Why me?”

Twilight laughs slightly. “Like it or not Mr Rowe, you are the highest ranking member of the G.O.E here in Equestria.”

I sigh. “OK, but I want to speak with them first.”

“Of course and any action you decide the princesses will honour it.”

I nod and lean back into my pillow. “Thank you, for saving me and Star.”

“I wasn't supposed to go through the portal but I did anyway. You were in trouble and it is my duty to help those in need.”

“Yes, but I shouldn't have needed help.” I state.

“Ah yes, the human ego of not needing help even when they know they do.”

I shoot Twilight stern glance only for it to soften when I see she was smiling.

“You are not the first human to live in Equestria Mr Rowe.”

“I know and enough with the Mr Rowe, you're making me sound like my father. Kenny is fine.” I say.

Twilight giggles. “Very well Kenny. Your marefriend should be back soon.” Twilight walks to the door. “Drop by the Valkyrie barracks when you're healed, the girls would like to properly greet you.”

“Wouldn't miss it.” I reply giving her a wave.

Twilight returns my wave and leaves. I sigh again and check my body. I find that apart from my midsection I didn't suffer any other injuries. I was in the process of poking my ribs one by one when a knock came at the door to my room, I raised an eyebrow as I stared at the door.

“Um...come in?”

The door slowly opened and a mare pokes her head in, when she sees me in the bed giving her a confused expression she slowly steps in and gives me a smile.

“S-Sorry to bother you Mr Rowe but I-I just wanted to say thank you for yesterday.”

“Yesterday?” I ask.

“Yes, I was one of the ponies you saved on Earth. I was able to return home because of you.” The mare lowers her head in a bow. “I will leave you alone to rest, please anytime you want to drop by just ask the guards in the castle for Honey Dew. They will point they way.” The mare gives me another smile and exits leaving me alone again.

I waited in bed for what felt like hours when the door to my room opened and Star walked in. I was about to say something when the pony following her made me keep my mouth shut.





Star walked into Kenny's hospital room and she felt her heart beat faster. The princess wanted to speak to her about her time on Earth and even to her shock wanted to escort her back to the hospital. Star looked back at the princess and smiled nervously.

“Miss Trail, you don't have to be nervous around me. Your father served me well during his long career in the military.”

“I'm sorry Princess I'm just shocked to learn that my father was in the military, he always told me he was an architect.” Star replies.

Celestia giggles. “Yes, Silver was always the one to hold back information unless you needed to hear it.” Celestia's expression turns into sadness. “I am sorry to hear you had to leave him behind.”

Star sighs and let's out a sniff. “Thank you Princess, I'm happy though. I have Kenny.”

Celestia nods. “I am happy too that you both managed to reach Equestria, I'm glad my Valkyries went against my order to save you but they won't get off unpunished.”

“Don't go too hard on them, please? If it wasn't for them Kenny and I would be dead.”

Celestia smiles. “Perhaps I can let them off this time. Enough about them let's see if your coltfriend is awake?”

Star and Celestia both look to the bed to see Kenny was staring straight at them, though Celestia felt his stares where more at her.

“You are awake I see.” Celestia says walking up to Kenny's bed. “How are you feeling?”

“I...feel good.” Kenny replies.

Celestia laughs at the humans speech impediment. “That's good to hear, your wound will take time to fully heal but you are in no more danger Mr Rowe.” Celestia gives Kenny and Star one last smile before she turns towards the door. “I shall leave you two alone so you can relax a little.” Celestia looks back over her shoulder. “Mr Rowe you are very safe here, when you feel up to it I would like to give you a tour of the castle if you wish?”

Kenny nods. “I would like that your highness.”

Celestia nods her head and exits leaving Kenny and Star alone.





Star nuzzles my chest and sighs, her body weight was causing the tender flesh of my abdomen to hurt but I didn't care. I hesitated but I knew if our relationship was going to work then we both had to take a step. I lifted up my arms and then gently wrapped them around Star, I felt her body tense but seconds later she relaxed and hugged me tighter.

I brought up a hand and started to stroke her mane. I felt weird as Star had just turned adolescent so stroking her like this was making me hesitate. Star moved her head to look up at me, her face was a mask of worry.

“Kenny, is something wrong?”

I sigh. “Star, I don't know how to feel about us...”

Star moves and sits up. “You...You don't love me?”

“That's the problem. I love you more than anything in the world but you just turned adolescent, I just don't know how to handle it.” I reply while placing my head in my hands. “Is it OK in Equestria?”

Star smiles. “The princess was here, she didn't say anything about it. I think as far as the law is concerned I'm an adult here in Equestria.”

I smile and scratch behind her ear only to have Star push my hand away. “What's wrong?” I ask.

Star frowns at me. “You always scratch my ear.”

I shrug. “Yeah, I've done that since I first met you.”

Star blushes. “Yeah well, it's more intimate than you know...” Star goes quiet and looks away from me.

“In what way?” I ask though I was getting a little confused.

“You know how some human women have certain places that you touch and it creates pleasure for them?” I nod. “Well ponies have places like that too and....” Star trails off leaving me to think.

I suddenly tense and realise that before Star came of age I was literally turning her on without realising it.

“Shit.” I state. “I was making you aroused even when you wasn't at age, why didn't you say something?” I say mid panic.

Star blushes even harder as I'm sure that all her blood was now in her face. “I kind of enjoyed it...”

I drop my head back onto my pillow and stare at the ceiling. “I groped a minor...”

“I'm not minor now,” Star says sliding up my body and planting a kiss on my lips. “I'm a legal adult and we Mr Rowe are going to go down on each other so hard the ground will shake. Do I make myself clear?” I quickly nod my head. “Good! Now I have to go for a while to see what family I can contact.” Star leaps off the bed but turns back over her shoulder. “You heal up and maybe just maybe I'll let your hands grab this.” Star grins and wiggles her ass at me. “See you soon.”

Star walks out closing the door behind her and leaving me wide eyed. “What have I done?”
> Chapter 12
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I stared through the bars at the guardians or former guardians as they stared back at me. I turned to my companion.

“You sure you don't want to pass judgement on them? This is your land after all.”

Celestia nods and looks back at my former compatriots. “It seems only fitting, they have not attacked Equestria and any pony hurt was on Earth Mr Rowe. In my mind they should be sentenced by their superior. Which happens to be you.”

I sigh and look back to the cell. It has been four days since I came to Equestria and so far the ponies have been very hospitable towards me and I'm very grateful for it. I however knew that I would have to face the guardians who helped Hex. I folded my arms and gave them a scowl which caused some to wince. I was a bit on edge as I haven't seen Star in the last four days either but Celestia has assured me that she is fine.

“What's the strictest punishment you have here in Equestria?” I ask the princess.

Celestia sighs. “We have a death penalty if that's what you mean? It involves using magic but I have heard it is quite painless.”

I turn and give her a nod. “The penalty then will not be death. I think they could benefit from Valkyrie training don't you think?” I had learned what the Valkyries go through to even be called such and it makes guardian training seem like high school in comparison. I was thinking of trying it out some time.

Celestia smiled. “You might be right, my Valkyrie need new sparring partners.”

I unfold my arms. “Then it's settled, their punishment is to help the Valkyries in their training and hopefully learn what it is to be guardians again.” I watch as some of the guardians look up and give me nods, others just hang their heads. “I will stop in from time to time to check their progress.”

“That should be no problem.” Celestia and I walk away from the cell when she continues. “I have had your Equipment repaired and it is waiting in the armoury of the castle.”

I nod. “I should see if my guns are still calibrated properly.” I see Celestia give me a raised eyebrow. I hold up my hands. “I mean no disrespect to your armourers but my guns are custom tuned by me.”

Celestia nods. “I will take you to them.”

“Not to sound ungrateful but don't you have something more important to do than help me get around.” I say.

Celestia laughs. “Equestria pretty much runs itself Kenny, the royal family handle the little things so I don't have to. It keeps me clear for when the big problems happen.”

I nod. “I can understand that.”

Celestia and I walk through the castle and encounter more ponies who don't seem to enjoy my presence much. I don't bring it up but I know Celestia sees them as I see her frowning nearly all the way to the armoury. We approach the door to the armoury and Celestia puts a wing on my shoulder.

“I'm sorry for the harsh looks you have been getting. I assure you that all of Equestria enjoys our alliance with Earth. Though there are a few sceptics.”

I reach up and place my hand on her wing. “I get it I do but I don't let it bother me. I don't think you should too.”

Celestia nods as she removes her wing before using her magic to open the large metal doors in front of us. I step into the armoury and my senses all get hit by the sound of hammers hitting metal. I turn my head to the left and notice pony armour adorning mannequins on the far wall. I was surprised by the armour as Earth had given ponies the ability to replicate and produce lightweight carbon fibre armours. The result was that Equestria didn't need to make large heavy armour any more but could get the same protection from smaller half plate based armour. I walk over to the armour and inspect the craftsmanship.

“It's a beautiful piece isn't it?”

I turn my head to see a mare dressed in a blacksmith apron and half her face taken by goggles. The mares fur was so black with smoke and soot from the fires that I didn't really know what her base colour was.

“I was just admiring the craft.” I say turning back to the armours. “Though I don't understand why these types of armours are still being made?”

The mares laughs. “These armours are for ceremonial duty only. Tradition states they have to be old style forged which is why we still have the old forge here.”

“Ah, I see.” I state.

“If you don't mind me asking? You're one of those protector humans aren't you, for my kind?” The mare asks.

“Yes, I am.” I turn and offer my hand. “Kenny Rowe, GOE Guardian zero zero one.”

The mare smiles and puts her hoof in my hand. “Strong Hammer, Head Forge Master.”

“Nice to meet you Strong Hammer.” I say as I notice the princess walking up to us. “Princess, I had no idea Equestrian armour had excellent craft work involved.”

“Only the best for my ponies Kenny.” Celestia replies only for Strong Hammer to bow. “Please Strong Hammer, we have been through this.”

Strong Hammer quickly rises. “I'm sorry princess, it's force of habit.” Strong Hammer turns to me and gives me a smile. “I take it you are here for your weapons and other items?” I nod. “Good! I tried to repair what I could with the limited knowledge I have but I didn't even want to touch your projectile weaponry. I don't have any information to even attempt to repair them.”

Strong Hammer gestures to a bench not too far away and I see my weapons neatly layed out. I walk over and pick up my pistols first to survey the damage, I was surprised that they came out nearly undamaged apart from a few scratches here and there. I secondly picked up my phone to find the screen had been cracked, I pressed the on button and the phone booted. I sighed a relief and the small crack I could ignore. I looked at the battery icon and it still had half charge. I cast my eyes over the rest of the bench and looked at the other weapons, I nodded when they all looked serviceable and I already knew the G.O.E had an armoury in Canterlot for the Guardians who choose to stay over here.

I put on my holster from the bench and place my pistols in each pocket. “I will take my pistols with me but the other weapons can be stored in the Canterlot armoury, they need to be serviced and the weapons and tools there will greatly help.” I state turning back to Celestia and Strong Hammer.

“That's great, I can have one of my ponies take them there and make sure they are secure.” Strong Hammer states calling over one of her fellow forge workers. “Heavy Strike, I want you to take the weapons on this bench and place them in the GOE vault. Kenny here will be by later to work on them.”

“Aye mam.” The pony replies before placing the guns and ammo into a nearby crate and walking away.

I spent the best part of the rest of the hour talking to the princess and Strong Hammer about the forge and their various armour making techniques. I told Strong Hammer that I might have a design she would want to take a look at, it wasn't much just a boyhood fantasy I made.

Strong Hammer left Celestia and me to continue her work. Celestia and I left the forge area behind and re-entered the main part of the castle. I had something on my mind that I couldn't shake and turned to Celestia.

“Celestia? May I ask where the Guardians who stayed over here are?”

“I'm not sure at this moment. I like to give them some autonomy in Equestria but only to some degree.”

I nod. “Understandable. You don't want humans running around killing and arresting ponies or other races. That would be a diplomatic nightmare.”

Celestia smiles. “I'm pleased you understand,” Celestia then taps her chin with a hoof and makes a hum sound. “Now that I think about it, I think one of your guardians is in the castle now. I like to keep one around just to be safe and the four like to take turns protecting me and my subjects. I believe they quite enjoy it.” I notice Celestia flush a little.

“What is it?” I ask.

“I think the guardian in question has taken one of my ponies as a mate just like you have Mr Rowe. Last I heard they were getting married which I found strange.”

I frown. “Strange?”

Celestia nods. “Your fellow guardian has only been in Equestria for a couple of months, I never seen a relationship blossom so quickly.”

“I take it ponies take their time just like humans do?”

Celestia shrugs her shoulders. “It depends on the individual, some take years some take months.”

“Or in my case years...” I sigh, “I never really thought about dating a pony until I met Star Trail. I just didn't see a future in it...”

“But you do now?” Celestia asks as we head into an area of the castle that seemed to be more military.

I tear my gaze from the military decal and nod. “I do. I want a future with Star Trail and if possible I want a child with her.”

“If possible?” Celestia questions raising an eyebrow.

I shrug. “I'm not sure if I can get her pregnant, I mean we're different species.” I gesture to my body.

Celestia laughs. “They didn't tell you much about us did they during your training?”

“They told us what we needed to know not much more.” I reply.

Celestia laughs and gestures with a wing. “I think you should follow me Kenny. I have somepony you should talk to.”

“Oh Ok. Lead the way.” I say.

Celestia and I walk through the castle passing by many windows detailing different ponies of old. I nod as Celestia describes each one and tells me of their deeds. I also notice the walls changing and becoming more golden than white.

“Ah we have arrived!” Celestia says in a chipper tone.

I look forward and spot that we have entered the area the Valkyrie use as their base of operations.

“This pony is a Valkyrie?” I ask surprised.

“Yes and she is one pony you have met before.” Celestia says walking forward and opening the large ornate double doors leading into the base.

“No guards?” I state looking around.

Celestia giggles. “If somebody can defeat my Valkyrie then they can have the castle.”

I nod but follow Celestia as she continues walking. I nod and return salutes as mares wearing the Valkyrie armour walk pass me. I kept next to Celestia as some of the mares stared at me in a way that left me both frightened and partially aroused.

“If I know her she should be in here.” Celestia says as we enter an area labelled 'Library'.

“The library?” I ask.

“Oh yes, she has a very keen interest in books which was from before she even became a Valkyrie.” Celestia walks in and heads for the back of the large room. “Twilight are you here?” Celestia asks rounding a corner.

I round the corner to see Senior Valkyrie Twilight unarmored and reading a book. I watch as Twilight looks up and her expression goes from surprise to shock as she jumps out of her seat.

“Princess Celestia! I didn't know you wanted me!” Twilight says bowing. “Please forgive me!”

Celestia laughs. “Twilight, please rise. I have some questions for you.”

Twilight stands back up and smiles broadly. “Oh of course! Anything!”

Celestia gestures to me and smiles. “Kenny here is under the assumption that he can't get a pony pregnant.”

“Oh, really?” Twilight says with shock. “Did they not teach you much about us in your guardian training?”

I rub the back of my neck. “Most of the training was based more on how you can protect a pony depending on what race they are. The subject of 'if a human can get a pony pregnant' was not part of it.”

Twilight gives me a smile and shakes her head. “This is why we always suggested that a pony advisor be present in the guardian training.”

Celestia sighs. “But your leaders decided they knew more about us than we did.” Celestia follows up her statement with an eye roll.

“Yes, but no offence on your race Kenny but your people can be a little frustrating some times.” Twilight adds with a frown.

I laugh. “I couldn't stand to be around most of them and I worked there.”

Twilight giggles as she uses her magic to put away the book she was reading. “Well to give you the advice you need Kenny the truth is I'm not a hundred percent sure you can either.”

“Really?” Celestia asks with a raised eyebrow.

Twilight seems to shrink a little. “I'm not saying no but I would suggest going for a compatibility test. That should tell you yes or no with certainty.”

I sigh. “Thanks Twilight, I appreciate the advice.”

Twilight smiles broadly. “You're welcome, though I guess you're asking because of Star Trail?”

I nod. “I want to be with her more than anything and one day I want a foal with her...” I sigh. “But I'm worried that I won't be able to.”

Celestia steps forward. “You think it's what Star Trail really wants?”

I look to the princess. “Not now no, but in the future yes. I want to see a little foal running around calling me dad. I want to see Star holding the foal and looking the most beautiful she can ever be. I want to leave behind somepony that will take care of Star when I'm gone.”

“When you're gone?” Twilight asks confused.

“I know Star won't want to hear it but...at some point I have to go back and stop what's happening there. It's my duty.” I clench my fists. “I don't want to leave her but...” I look to my right when I feel a wing touch my shoulder. I see Celestia giving me a smile.

“The time for you to return will not be for some time Kenny but I can do something to help in that regard.” Celestia turns to Twilight. “Twilight as of this moment your team is assigned to Kenny. Any assistance he needs or training he might need help with you will be there until further notice.”

Twilight snaps to attention and salutes. “Understood Princess.”

Celestia turns back to me. “I have some duties to perform Kenny but I would like if you came to dinner this evening as my guest.”

I bow my head. “I would be honoured your highness.”

“Great!” Celestia replies with a grin. “Meet me in the throne room at seven and don't be late.” Celestias horn glows and in a flash of light she's gone.

“Well then,” I say turning to Twilight. “Know any good tailors?”

Twilight gives me a grin. “You really have to ask?”
> Chapter 13
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I stood with my arms out as a mare wrapped a tape measure around my waist and made happy humming sounds.

“You certainly are a fine specimen Mr Rowe.”

I roll my eyes. “And for the fifth time Miss Stitch, I'm taken.”

The mare sighs. “Yes I know but you can't help me for trying.” The mare winks at me.

I chuckle. “So how much is the outfit going to cost?”

The mare waves a hoof. “I have orders to collect any fee incurred from the crown.”

I sigh. “The princess' orders I presume?”

The mare smiles. “Of course. I will have your outfit ready by this evening.”

I nod. “Thank you Velvet Stitch, now I have to find a way to burn a some hours.” I rub my chin.

“You could try the Tavern on Galvern Street. I hear it's got human friendly food and drink.” Velvet states. “You might find a fellow human there, I hear she visits the place frequently.”

I nod. “Thanks Velvet, see you later.” I say giving her a wave.

“Bye Mr Rowe and remember I'm single!” Velvet shouts as I leave the royal clothes makers.

“That mare.” I say before heading for the castle Atrium.

I reach the Atrium and spot Celestia talking to some guards and they look worried. I quickly stride up and bow.

“Princess? Is everything alright?” I ask.

“Oh Kenny, I'm not sure. I have received word that one of our small towns to the west has gone silent.” Celestia starts to pace. “I don't know the details but a trade caravan stopping in Canterlot has reported the town as empty.”

“Empty?” I ask a little confused.

Celestia nods. “Yes, Empty. The stallion said when he passed the town it was very quiet and stopped to check. He then went on to state no pony was in it, the streets were empty. I have ordered two squads of royal guard to go and investigate.”  

“Do they need any back up?” I ask.

Celestia smiles and shakes her head. “No they'll be fine.” I notice Celestia raise an eyebrow. “Eager to get out again?”

I sigh. “It's nice here but I'm getting bored Princess. I know Star Trail will kick my ass for saying this but I need to do something, anything.”

Celestia taps her chin. “Very well, get what you need and I'll send you along as an observer. Under the statement you're learning about our country and how our military conducts operations.”

I bow my head. “Thank you Celestia. I just hope Star understands.”

Celestia nods. “She will and don't worry she'll be safe till you come back.”

“I should get my gear.” I say and turn away. “I take it the guards will be at the mustering ground?”

“Yes, be safe Kenny.” Celestia says making a scroll appear with her magic.





I make my way out of the castle and to the mustering ground. I touch my pistols under my jacket. I smiled. It felt good to have them on me again. I notice two squads of guards standing by two carriages. I walk up to the guard that has the most elaborate armour and salute.

The guard salutes back. “Guardian Kenny?”

I nod. “That's me. I take it Princess Celestia has sent down word of me joining you?”

“Yes she has stated you are joining us as an observer on our mission.” The guard smirks. “You just wanted to get out and do something didn't you?”

I rub the back of my neck. “Yeah, I was going insane doing nothing and this mission will help me see more of Equestria too.”

The guard nods. “My guards and I know what you Guardians are capable of but the princess has made if clear you are under my command while on mission.”

I hold up a hand. “I know and I have no quarrels with it. This is your country.”

“Glad to hear it now lets get seated and we can find out about this town.” The guard goes to enter the nearest carriage before looking back. “Oh and I'm Captain Broad Light by the way.”

I nod. “Nice to meet you Captain.”

The Captain nods and turns his gaze to the Pegasi hooking to the front of the carriage. “OK privates, lift off when ready.”

I sit down next to a unicorn mare as the carriage jerks before taking off. The mare gives me a side glance and a nod as the carriage banks upward and heads north east from the castle.





I sat in silence with my eyes closed. I wasn't meditating but I was preparing myself for the mission at hand. I open my eyes as the captain begins to speak.

“OK, we are two minutes out. The mission is simple, find out what happened to the town and locate it's inhabitants.” The captain looks out the front of the carriage. “Circle the town once then land outside the town.” The Captain brings his head back in. “OK everypony I want last gear checks. I'm not sure what we are going to encounter.”

I reach into my jacket and pull out my pistols. I pull out their magazines and nod before sliding them back in. I check my holsters to make sure they are secure and tight to my body. I stop when I feel like in being watched and glance up at the mare next to me. I notice a look in her eyes and realize she was the only one that had no partner to check her gear.

“Need a check buddy?” I ask with a smile.

“I-I could do with double check yes.” The mare replies.

“No Problem.” I state and give her armour a check. I make sure her armour is sitting right and her straps are nice and tight but not constricting. “You're good.”

The mare nods. “Thank you.”

I go to ask the mare her name but the carriage dips and the captain speaks up again.

“OK guards when we land we'll break up into small groups. Due to Guardian Kenny being here it puts us at odd numbers so Sunny Haze your going to be his partner.”

The mare next to me salutes. “Y-Yes sir.”

“Good. You don't have any complaints Mr Kenny?” The Captain asks me.

I shake my head. “No sir.”

The captain nods just as our carriage lands with a bump. “OK guards lets disembark.”

I stand and follow the guards out. I give the area we landed a quick glance and spot the town not to far away. I turn when the mare from before walks up to stand beside me. I give her a smile which she returns with a light blush.

“Guardian Kenny?”

I turn to see the captain walking up to me. “Captain.” I reply with a salute.

“You and Sunny are to take the north end of town. The area contains the storage facilities for the towns harvests aswell as the towns sorting building. Sunny will be in charge.”

I nod. “Understood sir.”

The captain nods. “Good, we will meet back here in two hours if we don't find anything.”

“How do we contact you if we find something?” I ask.

“Sunny Haze knows a spell that she can launch to signal the rest of us, but only if it warranted.” The Captain replies.

“Understood Captain.” I say as the captain nods and walks away. I turn to Sunny next to me. “Shall we?” I say gesturing to the town. Sunny nods and turns leading the way to our search area.





I pressed myself to the building wall one of my pistols in my hand. Sunny was across from me holding up her sword in her magic. I glance her way and she gestures with a hoof for me to check the small storage building I was pressed against. I give her a nod and move towards the main door. I notice the door has a handle and I reach for it. I turn the handle and the door clicks as it comes away from the frame.

I look to Sunny and she was watching from her place nearby. I turn my gaze back to the door and raise my pistol. I slowly push open the door and enter the storage shed. My eyes quickly take in the room and my pistol follows my eyes sight. I walk in to find the storage shed filled partially with boxes stamped with a symbol of a flower. I check one of the boxes and it was bound for Canterlot.

“Anything?”

I stand holstering my pistol. “No, just crates stamped for delivery.” I take another look around and sigh. “We've been at this for nearly an hour Sunny. I have bad feeling about this place.”

“Is that your training talking?” Sunny asks.

I sigh again. “Maybe. I'm not sure. I just have a feeling this won't end well.”

Sunny nods. “I feel something to but we have a couple of buildings left one being the main warehouse they use to sort the flower they cultivate here.”

I frown. “What exactly is this flower they harvest?”

“It a flower that only seems to grow well in this area. The flower can be ground down to form salves. They sell the salves to hospitals as a magical alternative to speed up healing.”

“Wow, that sounds like quite the flower.” I reply.

Sunny nods. “It makes the town prosperous.”

“Could also be a reason why the towns missing.” I state.

Sunny gasps. “You think someone would take an entire town to take the flower?”

I nod. “It's possible. Question is though who would have the power to do this?”

“That's the question isn't it?” Sunny replies heading back out.

I pull out my pistol again. “OK lets go see what the last buildings are hiding.”
> Chapter 14
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I press myself against the building holding my pistol in my right hand. I look across to Sunny who was standing on the opposite side of the main door. Sunny nods and I move to the buildings door. I place my left hand on the door and give Sunny a glance. Sunny nods again and in one move I push open the door and move in pointing my gun in several directions.  

“Clear.” I say lowering my gun.

Sunny steps beside me sheathing her sword. “What is going on here?”

“I'm asking myself the same question. This was the last building to check and there's no sign of the townponies.” I walk over to a crate. “Sunny, this crate was going to Canterlot.”

Sunny walks over and gives the crate a look. “It seems this is the holding area for the town shipments before they send them out.”

“Then why haven't they-” I stop when I hear a sound behind me. I raise my pistol. “You hear that?” I ask Sunny.

“Sure did.” Sunny pulls out her sword.

Sunny and I walk forward in the direction of the sound. I glance to Sunny. “You're the ranking guard here.” I gesture with my head.

Sunny nods and steps forward. “Come out. We know there's someone in here. Come out by the order of the Royal Guard.”

Sunny and I snap our weapons down a bit when unicorn foal no older than about four or five steps out from behind a crate.

“P-Please don't hurt me...”

I look to Sunny as the unicorn filly trembles. “I think we found one.”

Sunny looks up to me. “Looks like it.” Sunny puts her sword away and gives the filly a smile. “We're not going to hurt you. We came to investigate when a passing trader reported you're town was empty. Can you tell us what happened?”

The filly starts to cry. “T-The bad ponies came. Took my mommy away and hurt daddy.”

“Bad ponies?” I ask.

“The one's l-like h-her.” The filly answers pointing to Sunny.

“Like me? You mean unicorns?” Sunny questions.

The filly shakes her head and I realize what she meant. “She means Royal Guard Sunny.” I gesture to Sunny's armour. “Were the bad ponies wearing armour like this?” The filly nods. “Damn...”

“That's impossible! Royal Guard don't foalnap entire towns.” Sunny states. “She must be mistaken.”

The filly back peddles when I hear hoofsteps behind me. I turn to see the royal guard captain walking in with the rest of the guard behind him. They all had their weapons drawn. “Captain?” I ask in worry and place a hand on my left side pistol.

The captain chuckles and shakes his head. “I was hoping my guard would find her first and avoid this situation.” The captain gestures and the royal guard move to circle us. “If you don't want the filly to die I suggest removing your hand from your weapon.”

I hesitate and look down to the little filly who was now cowering under Sunny. I slowly remove my hand and put both up in surrender.

“Good! So you can follow orders like a good dog.” The captain stabs his head in my direction and I feel a sharp pain in the back of my head.





I wake up with Sunny looking over me. She had been crying but smiled when I sat up. “Sunny?..What happened?”

“One of the guard hit you knocking you out. They took the filly and our weapons. We got thrown in here after.”

I look around and notice many other ponies around us. They hugged each other in groups while some just mainly mares just lay still as others stroked their manes. I go to get up but fall down grabbing my head. “Ow..”

Sunny places a hoof on my shoulder. “You shouldn't get up. You took a big hit.”

“I thought you guardians were tough?” I turn to look at a young stallion nearby. The stallion was holding a mare that was crying. “You should have killed everyone of them for what they have done.”

“I'm not an executioner. I kill when I need to not because I can.” I reply.

The stallion shakes his head. “They took everything from us. Locked us in here and take our mares for entertainment. My sister was the last one they took.”

I look to the mare in his embrace. The mare glances towards me and I spot the large black eye. I frown and stand up. I look around and spot the door to our 'cell'. I walk over and peer through the doors only hole. I spot a unicorn standing outside wearing light armour and carrying a sword. He screamed bandit.

I turn away and think. I look up when I spot a young colt playing with a shard of metal. I smile and walk over. A mare nearby grabs the colt as I kneel down. “It's ok. I'm not here to hurt you or your colt.” I point to the metal shard. “You mind if I borrow this?” The colt shakes his head. “Thank you.”

“What are you upto?” Sunny asks eyeing the metal in my hand.

I give her a smile and tap my nose. “Patience my young padawan.” Sunny tilts her head in confusion. I walk over to a nearby wall and place the metal down. I start to bend the metal shard into an arrow head shape. I almost jump when a unicorn mare appears next to me. She gives me a weak smile and lifts up a small bundle of strapping. “Thank you.” I return her smile and she walks away. I spend the next two minutes shaping the shard and when I was finished I wrap the strapping around the unbent side and create a handle. I hold up the makeshift shiv and nod. “Should work...” I say to myself.

“You made a knife?” Sunny asks sitting nearby.

“It's more a shiv really but it will do.” I look to the door and think about how I'm going to get the pony in here. I rub my chin before looking to Sunny. “Sunny how is your acting?”

Sunny's ears flatten a she gives me a worried look “That depends on what sort of acting.”

“I need the guard to come in here...”

“Oh...that acting...ok.”

“I'm sorry Sunny but the others here just ain't upto it.” I kneel down and place a hand on her shoulder. “I'm sorry but to them you're a pretty unicorn.”

Sunny nods. “I know...just give me a second.”

I nod and stand walking to the door with the shiv in hand. I watch as Sunny walks towards me and stands on her hind legs to peer through the door.

“Hey you...What's a mare got to do to be mounted huh?”

“You'll have your turn soon enough.” The guard outside replies.

Sunny turns to me and I gesture for her to continue. “But wouldn't you like first dibs before I get too weak to be fun?”

I look at the door when the guard doesn't reply. “I do like a mare that can give as she gets.” I silently cheer when the door unlocks and the guard walks in. “Ok nopony moves while I show this mare what a real stallion can do.”

I walk slowly forward with the shiv raised. “Hey..” I whisper and the guard turns. I dash forward and stab the guard in the neck stifling any sound he makes. I hold the shiv until I  feel his body go limp and his eyes go glassy. I let the shiv go and pick up the guards sword. “It'll do..” I turn to Sunny and give her the sword.

Sunny takes the sword in her magic. “You don't want it?”

I shake my head. “You need it more than me.” I pull out and hold up the bloody shiv. “This will do me just fine.” I turn to the other ponies and spot them glaring at the dead guard. “We'll come back once we make this place safe.” I turn to Sunny and gesture towards the door.

“Good luck.”

I stop and look over my shoulder at the young mare still lying in her brothers lap. She was giving me a little smile which I return with a nod. I give Sunny a look and hold up my shiv. “Ok let's go.”