“Aquila huh, the Eagle, the protector, the great hunter of the Stars.”

“Aura grab Wingnut, I’ll get Yaksha.” I yelled as we fell toward the ground after being blasted off the Palisade by another one of Wolfsbane’s Unicorns.

“What about Vervain!” Wingnut yelled as Aura took hold of him opening her wings.

“I’ll be fine kid!” Vervain yelled as she flipped around in midair making sure her hooves were pointed down.

Using my magic, I took hold of Yaksha and pulled her close to me. I looked down as I did and saw the ground was a lot closer than I thought. Wind Thrasher and Stardust both opened their wings to slow their fall. I would have had them grab Yaksha and me, but there wasn’t any time. Once she was close I concentrated and at the last possible second, teleported us. We both reappeared a second later rolling across the main street of Cartwheel’s ruins. I cursed then got up and looked up at the Palisade that loomed over the dead town. As I did the thrusters from the Zeppelin came to life. Before I knew it, the Palisade started to fly away, heading west, back toward Los Alicorn.

The rest of my friends landed a moment later, Vervain first. She slammed into the ground not far away from Yaksha and me, an explosion of dust and small rocks blowing away from her power armored body. Aura with Wingnut, Wind Thrasher, The Stranger and Stardust not far behind. Once they were all safely on the ground Aura looked up at the retreating Palisade saying, “If we hurry we can still get to Wolfsbane before they get away.”

“No, he’ll get what’s coming to him in time.” The Stranger said wincing a little as he tried to take a step. It looked like he hurt one of his forehooves during the fight.

Vervain ignored us, she turned toward The Equestrian Express screaming, “DAD!”

The Power Armor she stole opened and she ran over to a small lump laying at the bottom of the rubble that was all that was left of Equestrian Express. The rest of us followed as Vervain stopped next to the body of her father. The old buck was broken, his limbs were laying in different directions, his back was kinked oddly, blood covered his muzzle and his eyes were locked open, looking up toward the rainy night sky.

I moved closer and knelt next to the old buck, tears starting to fall. Vervain pressed her face into Box Tapes chest sobbing uncontrollably, “Why’d you come up there dad? You knew something like this would happen.”

I put a hoof on Vervain’s back and slowly rubbed it, letting my tears fall freely. I looked back at Box Tapes face and was amazed at what I saw. He was smiling, his lips were pulled up in a small smile as his lifeless body looked up at the heavens. It was almost like he knew what was going to happen, and he was happy he was able to sacrifice himself to save a mare he cared about. He hadn’t only saved me when he pushed me out of the way of Wolfsbane’s last attack, he had also made sure his daughter was safe. His actions made it possible for us to escape the Palisade in once piece. He died a hero, he died doing what a father will always do for his children and he did it with a smile.

I reached up with my free hoof and slowly closed his eyes saying, “May the Goddesses watch over you now Box Tape. I hope you find piece at last in the next life. Tell Silver I said hi and that I miss her.”

Vervain sniffed and pulled her face away from her father saying in a quiet voice, “Dad never believed in the goddess Shadow.”

That took me by surprise, “Then what did he believe? I thought everypony believed in the goddesses.”

There was the sound of several bodies gently landing in the wet street behind us, followed by Gigi’s voice, “No, not everypony does Shadow. Box Tape was a good friend to the Red Talons. He doesn’t think there is an afterlife like most ponies, he saw death in much of the same way as we griffons do.”

I looked over and saw Gigi, Apollo, and several other griffons from the Red Talons all sadly looking around what was left of Cartwheel. Apollo slowly walked over to us and knelt on the other side of the old buck. As he spoke his voice was shaking, almost like he was close to crying himself, “We tried to get here as fast as we could, but we were held up by some of those Unchained Talons. If we had been a few minutes earlier, we could have saved him.”

Stardust sighed as he said, “I don’t think you could have, the old buck knew he couldn’t win against Wolfsbane.”

“He could have if he didn’t have to get out of his armor and if he wasn’t protecting us,” Vervain said, “I think he knew he was dying already. His body couldn’t take the strain that suit put on his body anymore, he also couldn’t go through another detox from the chems. This was his way of going out in style. I…just wish it hadn’t been my brother who did it.”

My mind was still stuck on what Gigi said, “If Griffons don’t believe in an afterlife then what do you think happens to you when you die?”

An old griffon walked closer, he had a kind looking face, his feathers were a mix of dull blue and grey, his fur was brown, and his beak was grey as well. When he spoke, his voice was also kind and gentle, “I wouldn’t say that we don’t believe in an afterlife young mare. We believe that, if a griffon were to reach that level of peace they must do something great with their life, something noble or heroic. If a griffon didn’t, their soul will come back to start a new life so they may try and prove themselves again.”

When the old griffon walked closer to Box Tape’s body, Aura took a step back bowing a little, “Tonto it’s wonderful to see you.”

His bright brown eyes fell on Aura and he smiled, “Aura young one, I’m glad to see you are still doing well.”

I tried to answer, but it felt like a rock was stuck in my throat. It was The Stranger who answered, “It was Wolfsbane, he came for Shadow and destroyed the town and killed his father.”

Apollo looked up with anger written on his face, “We saw the airship, but I can’t believe that Wolfsbane would let this happen. I know he hates this town and his father, but he wouldn’t do something this crazy!”

“He did,” The Stranger said, “He was also working with Gina, they killed all of the towns ponies then took Shadow and her friends’ hostage.”

Aura spoke up, “She headed in the direction of Halo One. I stabbed her with my spear, she took a healing potion when she flew off, but it won’t do much for her apart from stop the bleeding.”

Gigi turned toward a few of her griffons, “Go after her, if she’s wounded that bad you should be able to subdue her. I want her taken to Crimson Canyon alive.”

“No, I need you here,” Gigi said as the other griffons flew off, “Box Tape was our friend, we should stay long enough to see him off properly. You owe him that much Apollo.”

I sat down ignoring the rain flowing over my face as I stared at the body of Box Tape, still not able to comprehend the fact that he was dead. A moment later I felt Aura’s talon wrap around me and pull me close, “I’m going to miss him too Shadow.”

I sniffed, “It’s just hard to believe he’s gone, he was so full of life.”

Vervain and my friends came to sit next to me as well. Vervain saying, “He was, that’s what made him such a great stallion. Even though it’s hard to accept that he died, at least he went down the way he did. I couldn’t imagine my father dying in his bed, too old to even feed himself like a lot of old ponies in the wasteland do.”

Gigi put a talon on Vervain’s shoulder then asked, “If you want, Tonto can perform a service for your father. If I remember right, he always wanted a griffon funeral when he passed.”

Vervain started to cry again, it took her a moment to gather her composure, but once she did she nodded, “It would be an honor,”

“Okay, give us an hour or so, that way we can prepare. The rest of my griffons will help find the rest of the ponies who died here today so they can be buried.”

I looked over to Gigi, “I hate to ask, but why would you do that for Cartwheel?”

When Gigi looked over at me I saw sadness in her eyes, “Because Cartwheel has always been friends with Crimson Canyon. All of my talons knew every pony that lived here. They were our friends and we lost them today. It’s the least we can do for them.”

As we talked I saw two of the griffons carefully lift Box Tape’s body and carry him toward the middle of town. I felt a fresh wave of grief come over me as I watched his body be carried away. Then Aura said, “We should go rest while we wait, you took a nasty beating back there Shadow, I want to make sure you’re okay.”

I looked around the destroyed town asking, “Where in Luna’s name are we going to rest. Cartwheel’s gone.”

She pointed down the road a little where I saw one building that hadn’t been destroyed. Silver’s home was still standing strong, the last building still intact in Cartwheel, “Silver’s place will do fine. She has three bedrooms in it, we’ll rest up there for now. Mom will let us know when everything is ready.”

I wanted to protest, I still didn’t want to go to Silver’s home, but I knew she was right. So, I let Aura help me up and lead me away, my friends followed close behind same for the Stranger. We walked in and I saw that the shop in front was still the same as when I first arrived here so many weeks ago. Armor was set up on one side of the shop, from the more inexpensive leather armor, to the most expensive combat armor. On the other side of the shop I could see a few dresses on display and some normal every day clothes as well.

“This place seems so…lifeless with her gone.” I said as we walked past the small shop and into the living quarters.

“It is still a nice place.” Yaksha said as she moved to go sit on the couch.

“Shadow if you don’t mind, I’m going to go try and get a nap in, my head hurts.” Wind Thrasher said.

“I’m going to do the same, I’ll room with Wind Thrasher for now,” Vervain said, sniffing a little as she tried to hold back her emotions.

“Good idea Kid, I think I’m gonna do the same” Stardust said as they all left to find a room to stay in.

When they were gone The Stranger sighed saying, “I should get back to Stratus, I’ll need to make a report about what happened.”

To my surprise Yaksha perked up saying, “Why leave so soon? It looks like you hurt your hoof in that fight. Maybe you should rest up for a little while as well.”

The Stranger looked over at Yaksha then sighed again, “It’s not like I’m going to be missed any time soon I guess.”

“Yeah Stranger, you’re always running off, you should stay for a little while. If you want I can look at that hoof of yours.” Aura said.

“I guess a few hours can’t hurt, but don’t worry about my hoof. I’ll be okay.” He said limping over to sit next to Yaksha.

The Stranger closed his eyes, “I’m from Nimbus originally, forgive me but why do you want to know?”

“No reason really, I just like to know things that is all.” Yaksha said, “Your eyes remind me of another stallion I used to know from Nimbus. Though I know you cannot be him, because a lot of the reports I have…acquired, say he is dead.”

“Not like yours, yours shimmer like an emerald under a jeweler’s light, they kind of remind me of the many gems I saw in Gravel City.” Yaksha said with a smile, “I want to know, but I get the feeling you would not say much more than you already have.”

“Yeah you got that right, I’ve been trying to get him to tell me who he is for weeks now.” I said.

Aura perked up at Yaksha “Wait a minute what do you mean ‘in Gravel City?’ that place is nothing but ruins, it’s been in nothing but ruins since the megaspells. There’s no way you could have been there.”

Yaksha looked back to Aura still smiling “Yes Aura, I was there but when I first arrived the place was in ruins. However, there was a cave around that area that survivors from the megaspells took shelter in and lived out their lives, it was very secluded.”

“You’re pulling my feathers Yaksha, I’ve been there many times and I never once saw this cave.” Aura said

Yaksha’s smiled faded a little “Well of course you did not see the cave, it was caved in by Hell Hounds. The ponies that lived there dug deeper always finding more and more gems they could use to trade with selected settlements. One day they dug too deep and came upon an opened cavern with more gems but also a nest of Hell Hounds. They were not happy, as you can imagine, which resulted in a battle, slaughtering just about everypony there. I should know, I was a part of that battle as was that friend I mentioned. A lot of ponies, including its leader Silver Light, died.”

“Surviving multiple Hell Hounds? You’re very lucky Yaksha. It sounds like it was a rough time for you and your friend.” I said

Yaksha sighed “It was Shadow Star, if it were not for my friend during that battle I would have died. Most of the Hell Hounds were taken care of but I… remember this one very large Hell Hound, impossible to kill, just tearing through ponies like paper. After seeing most of its pack die in front of it, it started breaking into the weak points of the rocks in Gravel City causing the cave in.” Just then a strange beeping noise came from where Yaksha was sitting. She reached into her saddle bags and pulled some kind of strange device out, looked at it then said, “If you would excuse me, it looks like a contact out here finally sent me a transmission. I will be right back.”

“A portable broadcaster. I told Sheena to tell my contact that I was heading out here when he came to the Kingdom. It looks like he found me rather quickly, I just need to let him know to stay away from Cartwheel. I can meet with him tomorrow after everything here has settled down.” She said before heading back outside.

“She is, but she’s also a nice mare.” I said, “She did save me from Wrath while I was in the Absent Ruins.”

“I heard about that, I’m sorry I couldn’t get to you in time myself.” He said before closing his eyes, “You should go rest up too Shadow,”

I followed Aura as she led me down a hall and into the same room Silver let me use when I stayed with her the first night I was here. I saw that the old rifle I stole from that raider Blade was still sitting in one corner, the bed was still ruffled from when Silver woke me so she could hide me over at Box Tape’s place. It was like I never left. A fresh wave of emotion threatened to overwhelm me again, then Aura picked me up and hugged me tight, “There’s no need to be sad Shadow, remember I’m here for you.”

I hugged her back as she moved to lay us both down in the bed. I rested my head on her chest as she pulled the blanket up to cover us both. Even though I had a lot of stuff running through my head, my emotions were all over the place, and I felt like crying all night. I soon found myself drifting off to sleep as Aura held me close to her, humming a song I hadn’t heard since I was a foal…

I was in my room laying in the small bed dad had made for me. Mom was tucking me in for the night and using her magic to make sure I would be able to sleep through the night without being in any pain. I looked up at her asking, “Mommy, I’m scared.”

I heard my dad’s voice from the doorway, “There’s no need to be scared Star.”

“Your father’s right Sweetie, sleeping in this bed is no different than your crib. It just has no walls. I don’t care how small you are for your age, you’re three now and you need to sleep in a real bed.” Mom said.

Mom looked over at dad, who was just a dark outline in the doorway, “Dear, where is her stuffed animal?”

“I did, then I asked you to make sure it dried. You know she can’t sleep without it.”

Dad came over and patted my head then kissed my horn his outline still shadowy, damn I why can’t I remember what he looked like, “Star, please don’t yell at your mother. Don’t worry I’ll find Avon, but for right now I need you to try and sleep.”

“Ah but you can, if you just close your eyes you’ll be just fine. If I find him I’ll bring him to you later okay?” dad said.

“There’s my brave little filly.” He said, “Now try and get some sleep, I’ll come check on you later.”

The two of them walked out of the room leaving the door cracked open a little so some light came into the room from the hall. I did my best to close my eyes and sleep, but every time I did I kept hearing some strange noises. I wanted to yell for mom or dad, but they would just tell me it was the wind outside or something like that. Then the door to my room creaked a little and my eyes snapped open. When I looked at the door, nopony was there.

I thought I saw what looked like a shadow flip by the door for a second though. I lifted my head and said quietly, “Is somepony there?”

At the darkest part of my room I saw the darkness move then a moment later a tall golden stallion was standing there smiling at me, “Don’t worry Star, it’s only me.”

He walked over to me and said quietly, “Not so loud, you know your father would be very angry if he knew I was here.”

He hugged me, “It’s alright Sweetie, tell me, what are you still doing up?”

Uncle Oricalcos put on a serious face, but it was a silly serious face, “Oh no! That is never good. What are you going to do Star!”

“I don’t know. Daddy said I should be brave, but it’s hard to do without Avon, he’s my protector.”

Uncle Oricalcos was about to say something when the door to my room opened a little and Dad said, “Star, you need to go to bed.”

My uncle’s body turned into shadow again and he vanished for a moment. This wasn’t the first time he’d come to see me right after bed time. He was used to sneaking around mom and dad by now. I smiled at dad saying, “Sorry daddy.”

When dad was gone Uncle Oricalcos reappeared next to me, “That was a close one. Now where were we…oh yes, you said you can’t sleep without Avon. Isn’t that the stuffed animal you always seem to have with you?”

“Yes, mom said he needed to be washed, because he’s dirty. Daddy was supposed to hang him out to dry and forgot. Now I won’t ever get to sleep.” I said in a huff.

He sat next to me saying, “How about I sing you a song to help you sleep. When I’m done, I’ll keep watch over you for the night, will that help?”

“I’d do anything for you Star, I’ll always look after you and protect you from any danger.”

He laughed lightly, “Cross my heart, and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” I guess I’ve always known the pinkie pie promise, I would think I would’ve recognized it when Wingnut did it. Hah guess that’s a price of memory loss. When he was done he smiled again, “There, now you have my unbreakable vow to watch over you forever.”

Twinkle, twinkle, little star,
How I wonder what you are!
Up above the world so high,
Like a diamond in the sky.

When this blazing sun is gone,
When the nothing shines upon,
Then you show your little light,
Twinkle, twinkle, through the night.

Then the traveler in the dark
Thanks you for your tiny spark;
He could not see where to go,
If you did not twinkle so.

In the dark blue sky you keep,
And often through my curtains peep,
For you never shut your eye
Till the sun is in the sky.

As your bright and tiny spark
Lights the traveler in the dark,
Though I know not what you are,
Twinkle, twinkle, my little star.

My eyes started to slowly close as he sang, when he finished I muttered, “I love you Uncle Oricalcos…”

Right before I fell asleep I felt him kiss my cheek, “I love you too little one, sleep tight, and remember I’m always watching over you from the darkness…”

I jumped as I woke up, the memory of that night as fresh in my mind as if I just lived it. Aura woke too when I jumped out of her talons, “Shadow?”

I rubbed my eyes then yawned, “I just had a strange dream, at least I think it was a dream, or a memory.”

“Yeah, it wasn’t a bad memory. It was from when I was still really young. It was just something about my parents and…well Oricalcos singing me a lullaby. The same one you were just humming when I passed out.”

Before either of us could get out of bed I heard Gigi’s voice from the doorway, “So you two are sleeping together, I guess I shouldn’t be surprised.”

Aura put on her saddle bags then grabbed her spear, “I don’t need another lecture from you. Yeah, Shadow and I are together, there’s nothing you can do about it, I’m not in the Red Talons anymore.”

Gigi shrugged, “I know that Aura, but I thought you wanted to find a way back into the Talons?”

“Not anymore, I’m happy with Shadow and the rest of our friends,” Aura said turning back to me, “Come on Shadow, let’s go.”

I got up as well and started to put on my duster and barding, “Where are we going?”

Aura pushed past Gigi saying, “The ceremony is going to start soon I’m guessing. I don’t want to be late and neither do you.”

Gigi let her pass, but when I tried to leave the room she blocked my path, “Aura can you go help Tonto? I’d like to talk to Shadow.”

Aura turned back toward her mother, “I’m not going to let you threaten her.”

“Yes, Aura she’ll be fine, I’m not going to do anything, I just need to have a word with her that’s all.” Gigi said.

“Fine, but don’t take long.” Aura said before turning and walking down the hall.

Gigi smiled then chuckled, “I’m glad to see that Aura’s happy, though I do wish she’d lighten up a little. I’m guessing from her reaction that you didn’t tell her about what we talked about.”

“You told me not too and she never asked me about it. I do wish I could tell her though, I think she’d feel better knowing that her mom doesn’t care who she’s with.” I said.

Gigi’s smile faded, “I agree, but at this point I’m not sure she’d believe me about it. I just wish I could do something more for her, I feel like a bad mother by hiding my feelings like this. I also have to think about what the rest of the Talons will think if they found out that I was okay with Aura breaking the rules.”

“What I don’t understand is why you can’t just change some of the rules. You’re the leader and those rules or laws were written two hundred years ago.”

“It’s not like I can’t, but the problem is that if I did change the ten laws of the Red Talons, I could lose my position as leader. That would be bad for my family.”

“Maybe, or maybe your griffons would understand the rule change and go with it. It’s not like you have to change all the rules.”

She sighed and leaned against the door frame, “That’s also true, honestly I’ve been thinking about doing that for a while now, but with so much going on I’ve been too busy to do anything.”

“Well, all I’m going to say about it is that I think it’s a stupid rule. Is this all you wanted to talk to me about or was there something else?” I asked.

“No, what I wanted to talk to you about is that letter you had me deliver to Trotston.”

With all that happened since I left Spitfire’s Flight Academy I’d forgotten all about the two letters, “What about it? Was there a problem with Trotston?”

“Yes and no, Rusty was fine with meeting with Javelin. We set up a contract to have four wings of griffons be at the meeting and both sides have agreed to only send a few ponies alone with the leaders of both towns. The problem is, Rusty won’t go to the meeting unless you’re there.”

She shrugged, “He wouldn’t tell us, all he said is that he wants the Courier at the meeting to serve as the negotiator.”

I took a minute to think about it, “I guess I could do that, I need to head up that way anyway to see the doctor from The Annihilators and to look into a tip about mom. The only thing I ask is that Rusty lets me sit down with him afterwards so I can talk to him about Wind Thrasher and a few other things. If he’s willing to do that then I’ll help. Though I don’t know what good it will do, I don’t know the first thing about negotiating.”

She smiled, “Don’t worry, I’ll have Aris there as well. She’s specializes in negotiating, I’ll make sure she gives you a few tips and sits with you as well so you can ask her for advice.”

“Rusty said that if you agreed we could do the meeting in four days. We’ll be meeting at The Crossroads Trading Post. It’s a couple miles south of Trotston. If you want I can mark it on your Pip-Buck for you.” She said.

I held out my hoof and let her set the marker, “I’ll do anything in my power to make sure I’m there. If something changes just let me know, I’ll keep my broadcaster ready so you can message me.”

“Thank you Shadow, now let’s get going. The rain’s let up so now’s the best time for us to start.” Gigi said.

As she turned to leave I said, “Gigi, for what it’s worth, your youngest daughter is an amazing griffon. I’m lucky to have her by my side.”

Gigi stopped, then let out a long breath, “She really is Shadow, she’s like me in that way. Take good care of her.”

There was a slight hitch to her voice when she said that last part, “Gigi are you okay?”

When she was gone I grabbed the rest of my stuff, and headed back to the small living room. I found the Stranger waiting for me, “Are you ready for this?”

“I’m not sure. I mean I don’t even know what’s going to happen.” I said.

“In the stable when a pony died, there was mostly just an announcement and a small get together for the family. When Silver died I didn’t have time for anything, Wind Thrasher and I just buried her. I…don’t know what to do when a pony you cared about dies.”

To my surprise the Stranger moved closer to me and pulled me into a hug, “You just need to be there, remember the good times, and forget the bad. Then you pray that his soul finds peace, either with the Goddesses or whatever afterlife he believed in. That’s all you can do.”

I found myself hugging him back, “I can’t believe he’s gone. Just like that, one moment he was fighting like a bad ass, then he was jumping in the way to protect me, and finally he was tricked out of his power armor only to die.”

“That’s why he did what he did, I’m sure that in that moment he knew somepony was going to die, he made sure it was him and not you. I’m sure he thought of you as family, so he did what any father or grandfather would do when their filly is in trouble.”

“I’m…just tired of other ponies dying to protect me. My dad if he isn’t still alive, Silver, now Box Tape. It’s not fair, none of it is.”

He shook his head, “Life’s sense of humor can be cruel Shadow, if it wasn’t, my wife and filly would still be with me. Your mom would’ve never left you behind to do whatever she’s trying to do. Hell, Equestria would still be a beautiful place and the war wouldn’t have ever happened.”

“Come on let’s go pay our last respects to a good stallion.” The Stranger said taking my hoof and leading me toward the door.

“She wanted me to let me know that there’s going to be a meeting between The Annihilators and Trotston. I guess Rusty wants me there to help with the negotiations.” I said as we both started walking past the destroyed buildings of Cartwheel. While I was out, it looked like the griffons had cleaned up the bodies. All that was left was the blood from where their bodies had been.

“Shadow, remember we said no more secrets, I know there was more to her talking to you than just that. She wouldn’t have talked to you alone if that’s all she wanted. Now spill.”

“You’re so funny, now tell me what she really said.” Aura said sounding annoyed.

“Because my mom wouldn’t say something like that, she hates the fact that I like ponies.”

“Shadow, I know my mom a lot better than you do, she’s not that kind of griffon. She doesn’t care about me as much as you think, I know you want every mom to love their daughters as much as your mom used to love you…”

I turned on her, “Don’t…go there Aura please. If you don’t believe me then fine. But I’m not lying to you, if you really want to know for sure then go ask your mom. This is between you two. I can’t keep being the pony in the middle of your family. I love you Aura, and I’m not lying.”

“Yes, and that’s all I’m saying. Changing subjects, if Box Tape believed the same way as Griffons, what does that mean for his Funeral?” I asked as we both started walking again, heading toward the edge of town. It took a moment for Aura to answer.

“You remember what Tonto said about reincarnation right,” She asked, after I nodded she continued, “When a griffon dies we want them to be able to move on to their next life, or into the afterlife if their soul has finished its journey in this world. To do that, the body of a griffon must be burned until it is nothing but ash. Only then will the griffon or in this case pony’s soul move on to the next life or afterlife.”

We just got outside of Cartwheel when I saw a gathering of griffons, a few ponies and my friends. New graves had been dug and some of the griffons were still burying some of the town’s ponies. To my surprise I saw a few of the town’s ponies of Cartwheel had escaped. I saw the old ghoul who I first met standing next to a couple of the shop owners. Most of the fillies and colts I’d saved from the raiders were standing with an older mare who ran the weapons store. Cartwheel may have been destroyed, a lot of the ponies that lived here hadn’t made it, but some of them were still alive.

Sitting just off the road was a large stack of wood, built up in a square. Laying on it was Box Tape’s body, standing next to it was Tonto, Apollo, Gigi and Vervain. Vervain was slowly running her hoof over her father’s head, tears slowly running down her face as she looked at him. I made my way over to her and hugged her tightly.

A moment went by then I felt a talon on my shoulder. Pulling away from Vervain I looked up to see the gentle face of Tonto, “It’s time to start, are you ready?”

The ponies and griffons all started to gather around us as Tonto raised his talons in the air saying, “Thank you all for coming on this sad day. Today we all have gathered to say good bye to the ponies who lost their lives during the attack that destroyed the town of Cartwheel. I know that most of you have lost brothers, sister, fathers, mother and children. Tonight, is a sad day for us all. Tonight, is about remembering the ponies we lost. No matter who we lost or who we didn’t, we all knew Box Tape. He was the rock that Cartwheel was built on, he was the face of the town, and he was in no small way the soul of Cartwheel. So, before we all take time to say good bye to the ponies we lost, I’d like us all to pay our respects to Box Tape.”

Apollo spoke next, “I’ll start, I first met Box Tape when I was young. My first job was working for the old buck. When we first met I thought I was the best fighter around, I thought the old buck was nothing more than a forgetful old fool who wanted to be a courier. I was wrong, on that first mission we were attacked by a group of raiders. They were too much for me to take down on my own, but back then I thought I was the best and I tried to fight them off. If it wasn’t for Box Tape I wouldn’t be talking to you today, I wouldn’t have had my four wonderful children. He saved my life when I was overwhelmed, he fought them off like it was nothing. When it was all done he told me something I’ll never forget, he said ‘Never assume you’re the best, even if you are. Even the best can have a bad day or find somepony who is stronger than they think. Always fight like your life depends on it and never underestimate your enemies. Put simply, there is always somepony better.’ Those words changed the way I looked at the world, and I live by those words to this day. He was a good buck, a strong buck, a good friend and he will be missed. May his soul find peace, because as far as I’m concerned, Box Tape did more for this world than anypony ever has. Good bye my old friend.”

Not a single eye was dry as Apollo stepped away and Gigi moved closer to start what she had to say. Before she did I looked over at Aura asking, “Why did your dad say four children. I thought there were five of you. Syndi, Viridiana, Gus, Fletch and you.”

Aura looked down at me whispering, “I can tell you about that later, but for now I’ll just say that Syndi isn’t Apollo’s daughter.”

I shut my mouth as Gigi started to speak, “I’ve known Box Tape since I was little. He’s always been a friend of The Red Talons, for as long as I can remember he’s always been around. When he was working with Hidden Sands he used to hire us for harder jobs or he’d just stop by to visit. He was there for all of my children’s hatchings, he was there when all of them passed their training. He was there for me when I lost Gail. In the past few years I haven’t had as much time as I used to, to come visit Cartwheel. But before I was the leader, I used to visit him every week, we were close. He was like a second father. My one regret is I wish I could have taken more time over the past few years to see him more often. I’m going to miss him, and his dirty jokes. Good Bye my old friend.”

Once Gigi stepped down the old ghoul came forward saying, “I was the first pony that wasn’t part of the Steel Rangers to settle down in Cartwheel. I used to be a drifter before I came to town. I was close to becoming feral at the time, Box Tape helped me when I was at my lowest and talked to me like I was just another pony and not the rotting corpse that most ponies think we are. He asked me what I used to do before the war. I told him I used to sell different odds and ends, you know a little bit of everything. He asked me if I’d like to stay in town and set up a general store, so that’s what I did. I owe him my sanity.”

That is what went on for the next hour, different ponies who used to live in Cartwheel talked about how they met Box Tape, how he helped them, how good he was. More of the griffons went as well, each seeming to have either met Box Tape because of his friendship with the Red Talons or he helped them join the Talons. Aura and her sisters told stories about how Box Tape helped them in one way or another, Even Stardust had a few words to say about him. Tonto told a long and very funny story about Box Tape and him when they were still kids. I guess Box Tape grew up near Crimson Canyon and they used to go on small adventures back then as well. I guess they have been best friends forever.

Then it was finally my turn, I was the last pony to say something before Vervain. I looked out at all of the ponies and griffons looking up at me a lump in my throat making it hard for me to say anything. I took a deep breath and started to speak, “H…Hello everypony and every griffon, I’m Shadow Star, most of you know me as The Courier. I haven’t known Box Tape for very long, but in that short amount of time he became like a grandfather to me. It’s because of Box Tape that I was able to save the Fillies and Colts who were taken by the Raiders. If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t have ever been called The Courier. I know that DJ Pon3 gave me that name, but it was only because of the Duster given to me by Box Tape and him giving me a job. However, after The Equestrian Express was destroyed I told myself that I wasn’t the Courier anymore, how could I be if there was no more Equestrian Express. But very recently I came to a realization…” I took another deep breath holding back some tears, “…the ‘Courier’ isn’t just a title bound to The Equestrian Express, just because the building is gone, doesn’t mean its spirit is. No, the company that Box Tape and White Oak built won’t die with him or the place they called home, it will live on in me. Before I used to hate the title that was forced on me, but now I’m proud to call myself a courier for Equestrian Express, because I’m not just a courier, I’m The Courier, like I said, it’s no longer a title of ‘when the next letter comes’ but a title of hope for the Marejave Wasteland, a beacon of light in a sea of shadows. Somepony we Wastelanders can look up to knowing that pony is trying to make the Marejave a better place. It’s all because of Box Tape, he saved my life in more ways than one, and he also made the ultimate sacrifice to make sure I’d live to see another day. He made sure I could keep doing what I do best. I am The Courier Mare of the Marejave Wasteland now and forever.”

Everypony and griffon started to cheer as I stepped away. I blushed a little as I went back to stand next to Aura and her family, Aura pulling me close saying, “That was a great speech Shadow.”

I wanted to say something to her, but instead I just sat back and listened to Vervain. She was still crying, but she managed to say, “Thank you all for the kind words about my dad. Most of you know that my father and I didn’t get along well over the years, but that didn’t mean I didn’t love him. He was always kind to me, always there for me when I needed him. He used to say when he was older that he failed as a father, at times I used to think the same thing because he always wanted me to stay away from the work he did with the Rangers. That was where most of our disagreements came from. I wanted nothing more than to be like him and my mom. So, I ran away and joined up with Los Alicorn, later my brother joined me. After mom died, I came home so I could be closer to dad. Even then after all I did he still didn’t like that I was a Steel Ranger even though he pushed Wolfsbane to join them.” Vervain’s voice started to crack and she started to tear up each word she spoke got harder and harder for her to say taking breaks in between making sure she got what she wanted to say out. “I never understood why it was such a big deal, not until I met Shadow and her mom twelve years ago. He knew that I wasn’t meant to put my mind into finding Tech for the Steel Rangers or fighting with them. Even though I was good at both, he knew that I was always meant to have a family. He wanted me to be able to enjoy my life in a way he never was able too. Even though I found out that I couldn’t have a foal of my own, the Goddesses blessed me with Shadow Star. I’m sorry dad, I’m sorry that I didn’t understand until I was older, but thank you for always being there for me, thank you for pushing me to find the life I was always meant to have. I love you, I’ll miss you, and I hope you find peace. If you see mom, tell her I miss her.”

After she was done, Vervain broke down. I ran over to her and helped her back to her hooves. I walked her back to sit next to Aura and I. Once she was better, Tonto walked back over to Box Tapes body, he held a lit torch in one talon, “Box Tape, Sentinel of the Hidden Sands Steel Rangers, protector and founder of Cartwheel, Father, Son, and Friend. Your life has been long, it has been full of good and bad. You have done more for this land than anypony or griffon I’ve ever met. May your Soul find peace in the lands of our ancestors. Yet if your soul still isn’t ready to move on, then we hope that your next life is full of peace, love and happiness. Háá nilyííh.”

Once Tonto said those last…strange words, he placed the torch to the base of the wood. A moment later a large blaze consumed the wood and the old buck. We sat there and watched as Box Tape’s body was slowly consumed by the flame. I ignored the smell, ignored the sight, I just watched with Aura holding on to me as Box Tape was turned to ash. Right before the last of Box Tapes bones crumbled to ash, I said, “Goodbye…Grandpa.”

The rest of the day we spent with what was left of Cartwheel’s civilians. I spoke to a lot of them, talking about ponies I met or never met. Once we were finished my friends and I made our way back to Silver’s house. Aura’s mom joined us alone with Apollo. We were all sitting in the small living room now talking about what’s been going on since I left. From what I was hearing, it wasn’t good. The Romans had taken control of the river, taken down four NLR bases, and were now pushing toward New Pegasus. The Steel Rangers that were now ran by Sapphire had taken down three more NLR camps and Halo One. They were also moving toward Trotston, but nopony knew why. The NLR, were sending for reinforcements from out west, but they still haven’t shown up. There was also word about a dragon being spotted near a place called Stonefire Mountain. To top it off, the survivors of Appleton who moved into Stable 14 had a contract out for me. Luckily, they contracted with a smaller Talon Group that were allowed to work in the Red Talon’s area, but sooner or later I was going to have to do something about them.

“It means that if you see griffons that aren’t part of the Red Talon’s be prepared to fight, or pay them off. The Talon Company is called Blackhawk, that’s the name of their leader. She’s a good griffon, but she also doesn’t have the same values as we do. In the Red Talons, most of our griffons can’t drop a contract if the pony they are after pays them off, unless Apollo or myself say it’s okay. Blackhawk’s Griffons don’t care, they will take a bribe to drop a contract, though that doesn’t mean they won’t take another one from Appleton if they keep trying.” Gigi said.

“It’s okay Shadow, I’m sure we’ll figure something out.” Wingnut said.

Wind Thrasher was sitting next to Stardust looking down and occasionally glancing over to him before answering Wingnut, “I like the sound of a family”

Stardust looked as if he was spacing out like he was thinking about something or just looked bored, “A family huh? I don’t care either way. I like the company around me.”

Stardust got up as well, “Me too, I need to find out where Lonely Hearts and Sandstorm went. I didn’t see them after the fight and I’m getting worried.”

“I’ll go with you.” Vervain said, “I’m worried something happened to Sandstorm as well.”

“I really should get going as well, it was nice to see you all.” Gigi said getting up as well, she looked over at Aura saying, “Aura next week is the day of Rebirth. I hope you’ll be able to attend. As you know it’s the one day that even banished griffons can come back to Crimson Canyon.”

Aura to my surprise smiled a little saying, “I wouldn’t miss it for the world. That is as long as my boss lets me go that is.”

Gigi laughed, “It’s the day we celebrate our founder. It’s a day that we all get together and remember Greta and her life. Her son started the celebration to remember his mother and to give griffons that were banished a chance to get back into the talons. It’s also the only day that griffons from other talon groups can join us.”

“Good, well then I need to head home.” Gigi said before heading toward the door.

Gigi hesitated for a moment then her eyes fell on me. She glared at me for a long moment then said, “About what?”

“I just need to know something and I’d rather talk to you now while I can.”

Gigi sighed then nodded, “I can give you a few minutes, then I really need to head back.”

“That’s fine, let’s go talk outside.” Aura said then followed her mom as she walked out the door.

“I’m not sure kiddo, I don’t even know where to go from here. Cartwheel is dead, most of the town’s ponies here are as well. The ones who are left may be able to rebuild, but that will take time and caps.” I said.

Yaksha looked over at me saying, “I think we should take the next couple of days to rest up. From what has been going on I am sure you could all use it.”

“It’s not like I have anything else to do for now. I think a couple days to rest up would be good.” I said.

The Stranger looked over at me saying, “That would be a good idea Shadow. You’ve been going almost nonstop for days now, if you keep this up you’re going to regret it.”

“How to defend herself better and I am helping her get better control on her magic.”

“Does Shadow really need that much help with her magic? I mean she’s already pretty good isn’t she?” Wingnut asked.

“She comes from a line of strong and powerful unicorns, so I’d say so,” The Stranger said, “I’ve seen what Shadow can do, why would a zebra want to help her learn how to control her magic?”

Yaksha glared at him, “She is powerful yes, but she lacks control. If she is not careful, she may end up hurting herself someday.”

“That doesn’t answer my question, why are you helping her learn to control her magic?” The Stranger said in a low dangerous voice.

The voice of my Uncle echoed out of my saddle bags interrupting the Stranger, “Would you both shut up!”

I pulled the crystal out of my saddle bags saying, “Uncle Oricalcos? How are you feeling?”

“Better than I did before,” he said, the crystal pulsing a little as he spoke, “Now, Zebra…Stranger, both of you shut up!”

“Oricalcos now, I’m no longer Pride. I’ve been helping Shadow ever since she almost killed me. I found out who she was during our fight, now tell me Stranger, why are you so worried about The Zebra helping my niece?”

The Stranger pointed a hoof at the gem, “Why didn’t you tell me he was still alive!?”

“Because I knew you’d act like this. He’s been helping me, and he is my family. Now answer his question.”

Yaksha chuckled to herself, “Yes, Stranger, why do you care who helps Shadow?”

“You just showed up out of nowhere while Shadow was in the Kingdom, then just decided to join her so you could help her? I don’t buy that for a second, I think you’re up to something, I don’t trust you.” The Stranger said.

“At least I show Shadow my face, I am not hiding behind bandages like you Pegasus. I think you are the one that she should not trust. I joined Shadow because I am looking for an old friend who lives out here. I decided to help her with her magic and with her fighting skills as payment for her helping me get back.” Yaksha said.

Oricalcos spoke up again, “Zebra, I was in Star’s shadow when you spoke to her at the Kingdom. You had another reason for joining her.”

Wingnut spoke up this time, “Why else would she want to join us? It’s not like she’s a friend of Shadow’s or anything. She just wanted a ride back to New Pegasus that’s it.”

Oricalcos laughed, “Wrong child, she told Star that she knows what lives inside of my niece.”

Everyone’s eyes fell on Yaksha, who blushed then said, “I am a zebra, of course I can feel the presence that lives within Shadow. Any zebra that is trained properly can do the same. That is another reason I want to help her better control her magic, so she can learn to hold back that creature that lives within her.”

I had enough, I took in a deep breath they yelled, “All of you shut the fuck up! Stranger, she saved my life in the Absent Ruins and I trust her so you should too. Yaksha, The Stranger has been a great ally and saved me more than once when he didn’t have too, I trust him too so drop it!”

Yaksha Sighed “Let it be known that I did not escalate the tension. He did” She pointed to the stranger.

For a long moment no one said a word. Finally, Wind Thrasher broke the silence, “Stranger, I’m surprised you’re still down here.”

That seemed to snap him out of whatever mindset he was in, “With Wolfsbane’s attack on Cartwheel, Stratus is on high alert. Nightshade told me to stay with Shadow for a few days to make sure she was safe. He’ll figure something out as to why I’m not up there.”

I shrugged, “I don’t mind as long as you stop trying to fight with Yaksha or Oricalcos.”

The Stranger sighed, “I guess I can let it go for now, but I’ll be keeping an eye on your training and that Zebra.”

Yaksha rolled her eyes, “As long as you do not get in the way. Shadow come with me so we can start.”

I shrugged, “Looks like Aura’s going to be talking to Gigi for a bit longer, so I guess I should find something to do. Wind Thrasher why don’t you go try and sleep, Wingnut see if any of the town’s ponies need help.”

They both nodded. Once they were gone I followed Yaksha to the room I shared with Aura, the Stranger close behind, “Okay we will start with going back to your meditations. This time I want you to try and dig deep into your mind. I want to see if we can find a way for you to draw on the power from that monster inside of you without it trying to take over.”

“It is not, but I have a way to make sure you will succeed.” She said as she moved to sit in the middle of the room. The Stranger sitting a few feet away watching us.

I noticed Yaksha was sitting on her rear, with her hind legs crossed strangely, her forehooves resting on her rear legs and pointing out, “That looks uncomfortable.”

“Shadow, I know you are hesitant, but it is necessary for what I am about to teach you, now copy my gesture as best as you can.” Yaksha said.

I tried to mimic what she was doing, but I kept falling over, “I’m not a zebra, I can’t do that.”

She sighed then moved over and helped me, “You can Shadow, you are just too tense, you need to relax more.” She kept moving my legs and forehooves until I was sitting the same as she had been, “Good now I want you to eat this.”

I saw she was holding out something that looked like a large raisin, “What is it and why should I eat it?”

“Stop acting like a foal and eat it. It is just something I cooked up, it will help you enter your own mind. It will also help me do the same. I am going to see what this creature is and I will help you take hold of its power. Now enough of the twenty questions Shadow do you want to better control your magic or continue to blast wildly and hope you hit your mark?”

I wrinkled my nose a little as I took hold of the…whatever it was…then tossed it in my muzzle. I almost threw up, it tasted like ass, even worse it was chewy and had a soft nasty goo inside. After a minute I was able to get it down, once I did, Yaksha ate one as well. Once she was done swallowing I asked, “Now what?”

“Now I want you to clear your mind and meditate the same way I showed you in the sky carriage.”

I closed my eyes and started to breathe deeply, I did what Yaksha had showed me before and soon I found my body starting to relax. Then I heard Yaksha say, “Good, now I am going to draw something on your chest, do not worry about what I am doing, and just keep breathing.”

“I will not, just make sure you watch over her. If she starts to panic, splash water over her or rub away the glyph.” Yaksha said.

As I breathed in slowly then out slowly I felt Yaksha paint something on my chest. Whatever she was using to do it smelled like mint mixed with sage. As the aroma flowed over me, a tingling started in my belly. The feeling expanded and soon I felt it in every inch of my body. Then Yaksha started to chant in what sounded like Zebra. Soon the sound filled the room and I could tell that whatever she was doing wasn’t just a simple exercise, this must be Zebra magic. Before I could ask her what she was doing, everything around me seemed to vanish…

At first I thought Yaksha had somehow sent me into one of my own memories, then I realized that I knew where I was. I’d been here only once, back when I thought I killed Pride and my mind was split. The Little White Unicorn had used a spell to go into the Dark Unicorns mind where she found Aquila. This was the deepest parts of my mind. Everything was white and power seemed to fill the space like an overflowing river. I tried to take a step forward and noticed that my hooves were in a thin layer of water.

In front of me there was a small cage made out of what looked like old rusty steel. Inside the cage was a white filly with a black mane, moving stars on her flanks. She was sleeping right now, a small snore escaping her muzzle with each breath. I took a few steps forward wondering if this was Aquila’s true form or just another trick.

I almost jumped, turning I saw the Zebra was only a few feet away from me, “Don’t scare me like that.”

“I am sorry,” Yaksha said as she moved to stand next to me looking down at the Cage, “So this is the creature. Strange she looks like a filly to me, but I can also see that she is full of power. What is her name?”

“Aquila huh, the Eagle, the protector, the great hunter of the Stars. Strange that she would take on that name. The Stars of the Aquila constellation have always been known as good stars. They protect the land and bring good luck. They would never make a creature that would take over a pony.”

“She was named by Minuette. In the notes I found about where she was created, Minuette said the constellation was shining brightly in the sky that night.”

“No, that cannot be. That project was scrapped, deemed a failure. Even if it was not, there is no way they could have created something like her.”

“Shadow, that creature is not some creation from a lab. She is a child of the Stars, she is what is known by my ancestors as a Star Spawn.”

“A Star Spawn? I thought those were just demons that the Stars created to cause problems for ponies or zebra’s on Equis.”

She shook her head, “In most of our beliefs that is true, evil stars do like to make trouble when they can. The creatures they make are not as powerful as they could be, but they do manage to do a lot of damage. A true Star Spawn like Aquila here, is made to be a child to the stars. The stars themselves give some of their own power and life to make one. When they do this, the creature they make normally becomes a new star in the heavens. They never send a child of the stars to Equis because they cannot take form in this land. They are pure light magic, the only way they can live here is if they take over a host, but no pony can handle that much power and it kills them.”

“But that’s what she said she was doing with me, she’s using my body to stay alive until she can take me over. You mean to tell me that nopony has ever lived through an encounter like this?” I said my eyes glued on Aquila’s sleeping form.

“There are only a couple of stories that I know that involve a Child of the Stars taking over a host like this. Two zebra’s a long time ago had this happen to them, they both died within days of the bond, same for those children of the stars. This is why the stars do not send their children down here. Not the good ones that is. The evil stars will do something like this sometimes, but dark stars cannot make a creature like Aquila, so the pony or zebra they take over just becomes a twisted evil monster until they are put down.” Yaksha said.

“Most likely, there is only one pony I know that lived through something like this.”

“I do not remember the pony’s name, but I do know that he was a powerful unicorn that served the old kingdom before Equestria was founded. He lived through the bond, at least his body did. The pony and the child of the stars became something…else when they bonded fully. He became the creature you know as Discord.” Yaksha said as she walked around the cage Aquila was trapped in.

“I remember hearing stories about Discord in my classes in Stable 28. He was a trickster or something wasn’t he?”

“I am not sure, from what I know you two have been bonded for a long time. It is a miracle that you have been able to hold her off for so long.”

“Mom caged her for a few years I think that helped, she wasn’t able to do much until I found the Mark II. Anyway, this is all fascinating and all but why are we really here?” I asked.

“As I said before, I want to find a way for you to be able to draw on her power without her taking over.”

“Again, that sounds dangerous. Even if you could help me draw on her power, how will this help me control my magic?”

She grinned, “Aquila has a lot of knowledge about magic. Most creatures like her do. Since they are made of light magic and created by stars, they are ancient themselves, they gain a vast amount of knowledge during this creation. When you draw on her power without her trying to control you, that knowledge will be yours. At least some of it will. A small amount of her power will help your own abilities grow and give you better control.”

“That sounds really far-fetched. How do you even know any of this is real? What if I can’t control the power I take or it makes it easier for her to break out?”

“I know this because she needs a lot of power to break out of a cage like the one she is in. If she does, she will still need even more power to fully take control of you, even more so without killing you both. If you take that power from her, she will not be able to get free. If, by some miracle, she does break free, she will not have enough power to take you over.”

I looked over at Aquila again then asked, “So if I can do this, I’ll be able to hold her off forever?”

“So no matter what I do, I’ll always have her inside of me. She’ll always be able to mock me from the depths of my mind.”

“At first yes, but you see, you are missing another part of what makes her strong. She is slowly drawing power from your body, from your own magic. If you do what I am saying, over time you will be able to reverse the flow. By doing this, my hope is that she will be so weak that one day she will not be able to talk to you anymore, or she might even fade from existence.”

“She cannot truly die for she is not truly a living creature, just magic with a personality. You could think of her as dying, when in reality it’s just reserved magic.”

“Maybe, but you have to remember that Aquila is trying to take over your body. This is the only way I can help you Shadow.” Yaksha said.

“I know, I just don’t like it. I know she’s trying to take over, but sometimes I feel like there’s more to it than that.”

“How do you know she really is a child of the stars and not some creation from Stargazer?” I asked.

Yaksha laughed, “Shadow I am a zebra, I can tell that she is a true child of the stars just by looking at her. Now we should get started, this trance will not last much longer.”

“I want you to concentrate your magic on that and try to pull as much of it toward yourself as you can.”

“Yes, now when you start it will feel like you’re a in a game of tug of war. Since this is your mind and not her own, you will be stronger. Just keep pulling until you feel the power around her flowing into you.”

“Okay,” I said. I concentrated on the magic around Aquila’s sleeping form. As soon as my Telekinesis touched the glow around her, I felt a shock run up my magical field and through my body. As soon as that happened it felt as if my life force was being drained away, following the magic’s path back to Aquila. Remembering what Yaksha said, I put all of my will into pulling that power back into myself and away from Aquila.

For a long tense moment nothing happened. Then the drain on my life force stopped and slowly started to return. The flow was slow at first, like water trickling down a rock, then it came faster. Soon the energy that was pulled away from me was back, now I was drawing on the power around Aquila. Unlike when I took the power she stole from the power source, it didn’t hurt. The power that started to flow into me from Aquila felt natural.

As soon as Yaksha spoke, Aquila’s eyes snapped open. The flow of power stopped as Aquila slowly got to her hooves. Her eyes glued onto mine, a look of pure anger on her face, “What the hell do you think you’re doing!?”

I tried to cut off my spell, but I couldn’t. Aquila was holding on to my telekinesis, “Let me go Aquila!”

“It’s bad enough that I have to be trapped inside this fucking cage your mother made, now you have the fucking guts to come in here and try to steel what little power I have left!” as she yelled the area around us seemed to darken.

“Because you made a deal with me Shadow, five to ten years you’d get to live and do what you wanted, after that time went by I get your body. You only had a week or so left to live, I gave you TEN YEARS of life. You owe me!”

“I was a child, I didn’t understand what I was doing!” I yelled back at her.

“Shadow you must break the spell so we can leave, before she takes your power!” Yaksha said

Aquila looked over at Yaksha saying, “This is between Shadow and me, now get your filthy mind out of here!”

While Aquila was distracted I cut the flow of magic, severing my connection to Aquila. I backed away from her cage, “Let’s get out of here Yaksha!”

“No, I’m not letting you leave until you give me back what you STOLE!” Aquila yelled. Power erupted from her, blasting out from her cage and rolling over us like a blast of hot air.

The room around us went black and Aquila’s presence seemed to grow, her cage started to crack, “I’m not letting you keep me trapped in here! It’s time for you to pay me what you OWE!”

Yaksha jumped in front of me and started to chant something. For a moment everything started to go back to normal. I took another step back, “Yaksha how do I get us out of here!”

She didn’t respond, she was too busy doing…whatever she was trying to do. Aquila looked like she’d been hit with a bat for a moment then her expression changed to rage, “BE…GONE!” an explosion of power erupted from her cage.

The blast of power slammed into Yaksha, she screamed then vanished in a puff of smoke and light. The blast stopped leaving only Aquila and myself, “What did you just do!?”

“I banished her from our mind Shadow. That zebra thinks she knows what I am, she thinks she knows how to stop me. The thing is, she has no idea what she’s gotten herself into. No matter how much power you take from me, no matter how much control you have over your magic, you can’t stop me.” She said starting to laugh, “I told you before Shadow, we are ONE!”

“I’m not losing myself to you Aquila, I’m not giving up. I will find a way to rid myself of you.”

Another crack appeared in her cage, “Shadow we are bonded, we have been for ten years. Nothing you do can get rid of me, not unless I decided to break our deal and I won’t. Even now I’m slowly destroying this cage your mother’s magic trapped me in. In a week maybe two, I’m breaking free and I’m taking over.”

Right then something seemed to click inside my head. It was like somepony had jammed a small spell book into my mind and spells I’ve seen my mom do back when I was young and even the magic she used to make the cage around Aquila made sense to me. I grinned and as calmly as I could I said, “That’s where you’re wrong Aquila, this is still my head, my mind, I control what happens here not you.”

“Like this.” I was in my own head, I didn’t have to cast a spell using my horn or anything. This entire place is nothing more than a projection my mind made, I don’t have to cast a spell because the magic was already inside of me. All I have to do is redirect the flow of power and bend it to my will. The room around us turned white again, and the look of condescending rage vanished on Aquila’s face. The cracks in her cage vanished, her glow around her faded away, and she seemed to shrink in size.

“Made sure you can’t get free for a long time. You can fight my mom’s magic, but you’ll have a harder time fighting mine. I will find a way to get you out of me Aquila I promise you that.” I said, smiling at her.

I felt like something wet was just splashed across my chest and stomach, the world around me started to fade. Yaksha or The Stranger must have done something to pull me out. As I felt myself being pulled back Aquila chuckled saying, “This won’t work as well as you think Shadow. You made a mistake by coming here…hahahahahaha!”

I woke to find myself looking up at Yaksha and The Stranger both looking down at me, “What the hell happened?” I asked.

“I was going to ask the same thing, one minute you two were sitting there, the next Yaksha wakes up screaming.” The Stranger said.

“That…thing blasted me out of Shadow’s head, she should not have been able to do that.” Yaksha said.

“I DON’T KNOW.” I yelled, “My head hurts right now can you please drop it.”

“I know more than you think. Right now she’s tired, you’ve put her through enough, talk to her tomorrow.” The Stranger said.

Yaksha looked pissed, “Fine, but if something happens it is on you Pegasus!”

She stomped away and back to the room she was sharing with Vervain. When she was gone I sighed, “Thank you Stranger.”

“No need to thank me, you should go get some rest, we can talk tomorrow.” He said.

“Good idea, if you see Aura tell her I’m laying down okay.” I said getting to my hooves, as I did I felt something wet on stomach, looking down I saw that water had been splashed on me. The Glyph there was nothing more than running red paint.

I set my stuff down in one corner and laid down. It didn’t take me long to fall asleep. I’m not sure how long I was out, but sometime later I was woken by Aura. At first it was just a touch on my shoulder as she slowly shook me. Turning over I opened my eyes to see her looking down at me, tears in her eyes, “Aura are you okay…”

She didn’t answer me, she moved her head down and kissed me. For a long moment she held me there, then she pulled away and crawled into the bed. She still didn’t say anything as she kissed me again her talons running down my body. When she moved her beak down to my neck I panted, “Aura…what’s wrong?”

So I didn’t, I laid back and held onto Aura as she worked herself down my body. I held onto her as she did her best not to cry, I just let her do what she wanted. I’m not sure what was on her mind, but I did know that she needed me. That moment we embraced each other in various ways. Aura still didn’t tell me what was wrong, all she would say as I laid there in her arms was, “I love you Shadow.”

Over the next two days things started to look up in Cartwheel. The town was still destroyed, only a few ponies survived the attack. But the Red Talons were already helping the ponies that survived, they were going to help them move to the abandoned town outside of Crimson Canyon. The next morning, I felt a lot better and was able to tell Yaksha what happened with Aquila and me. She didn’t say much, but she looked worried. She did however keep training me on how to control my magic. I was now able to use my spells a lot easier ever since I took some of her power. The knowledge I thought I gained when I was still in my own mind seemed to have vanished, but Yaksha said that it would take time for me to understand what happened.

The Stranger started to work with Yaksha to teach me how to fight hoof to hoof and how to handle my weapons better. Aura also joined in to help me learn how to use the sword I found as well. Vervain and Stardust had arrived back in Cartwheel the next day with Lonely Hearts, Sandstorm and our Sky Carriage. We spent some time to bury the bodies of the steel rangers who were all in the Carriage. Sandstorm said that once the attack went down, he got Lonely Hearts away from town as quick as he could.

Lonely Hearts was able to tell me a little more of what he learned about mom, most of it was information I already knew. One thing stood out that I found interesting. Mom had been spotted in New Pegasus four days ago going into the N.L.R. Embassy. So, either she was still in the area or she already headed back to Los Alicorn. I was going to have to talk to one of the N.L.R. higher ups when I had free time.

Vervain decided to join the rest of Cartwheel as they headed toward Crimson Canyon. She said they’d need a mare like her if they were going to survive. So, on the third day after the death of Box Tape we had said our good byes to the town’s ponies who lived. We were now heading east toward Crossroads Trading Post so we’d make it in time for the meeting. The Stranger was still traveling with us, he just told me that he was ordered to keep an eye on me. We would have taken the Sky Carriage, but Vervain said we shouldn’t be flying anywhere just in case The Los Alicorn branch was still around. Keeping to the ground was safer at the moment. So, one of the Talons took the Sky Carriage with them to keep it safe in Crimson Canyon.

Now, Stardust, Wingnut, Wind Thrasher, Aura, Yaksha, The Stranger and I were walking across the dry land getting closer to Halo One. We were taking the long way around it to keep clear of both Hidden Sands and the Power Plant. I still didn’t know what was going on with Sapphire, but I didn’t have time to deal with her right now. When I was finished with this meeting and going back to Crimson Canyon for this Rebirth Celebration, then I’d make a trip to Hidden Sands to talk with Elder Sapphire.

“I know kiddo, but we have a lot of miles to cover and I’d like to get there before everypony else shows up.” I said.

“I know, but do we HAVE to walk? We have four ponies who can fly, can’t they just carry us there?”

“No way kid,” Stardust said, “We aren’t here to just carry you from place to place, also it’s good for you to walk.”

“Not everywhere, plus a pegasus needs to fly a lot to keep our wings in shape.” Stardust said coming to land next to Wingnut.

Yaksha was a little way ahead of us talking on that portable broadcaster of hers. She’s been doing that most of the day, but when we asked who she was talking to she refused to say. The Stranger sighed saying, “I don’t like when she keeps talking to somepony like that.”

“Same here, but I’m sure she’s not going to do anything to us, she’s been nothing but helpful since we first met her.” I said yawning.

“I don’t know Shadow, I’m with The Stranger on this.” Aura said, “Yaksha, for the last time, who are you talking too?”

Yaksha looked back at us, “My contact, he is just making sure I am okay that is all.”

“He’s just a friend, somepony I have travelled with in the past, you do not need to worry, he is a good Stallion, he is waiting for me in Coven, it is just south of where you are going,” She said.

“Fine, but can you stop walking off? You don’t have to walk away just to talk to your friend.” I said as I passed by the older Zebra.

“My apologies Shadow, I will not do so again. Since you are up here may I indulge in you for a moment?” She said.

“I am under the impression that I am not trusted among your friends, it is a bit disheartening, have I not been nothing but helpful?”

“Honestly Yaksha I’m beginning to think I’m the only one who does trust you.”

“Well… you have been secretive about the friend you talk to so much. Why haven’t you talked about him more?”

Yaksha sighed “I have not talked about him much because he prefers to be secretive. He trusts very few ponies. I am the only one he regularly keeps in contact with because he does not need to hide himself from me, I have proven that to him numerous times. It is only natural that he wants to make sure I am okay. Is that not how a friendship works?”

“Yaksha it doesn’t help that you treat almost any pony rudely, it seems only natural to have some sort of mistrust.” I said with a sigh.

“I am sorry Shadow, I have always been naturally defensive, it has gotten better over the years after meeting that mare I told you about. It is just that I do not want to feel outcast again by a group of ponies like I did back in Coven years ago, it brings back bad memories.”

“I can kind of understand. Being the only unicorn in an all earth pony stable can make you feel like an outcast as well.”

Yaksha smiled at that, “Thank you Shadow Star that does make me feel a little better,” she stopped for a moment as if in thought, “You know, I have been to Crossroads Trading Post a few times before, I wonder how much it has changed over the years.” She blushed a little, “I wonder if Black Licorice still works there too.”

“Yes I was, it was one of the first major stops that the mare I told you about and I went to when we were doing a major favor for Silver Light. That favor led us around most of the Marejave and eventually to an underwater Stable.”

“The details are a little fuzzy. There were a lot of experiments on marine life, but turned for the worst at least from what I remember.” She stopped again and smiled once more at me, “Thank you again Shadow Star for letting me indulge. I’ll try to not be so secretive next time if it will earn your friend’s trust.”

I smiled at that, “I’m glad I can help make you feel a bit more comfortable.”

The rest of the day we spent, making our way through the dry lands. Our destination was just on the other side, where one of the main highways ran north to south. Once we reached that we could use it to reach Crossroad Trading Post. My plan was for us to reach the cliffs near the road by nightfall then camp out before we continued on. Luckily, we reached the cliffs as the light was just starting to fade away in the cloudy sky.

“I’ll set up camp and start dinner.” Stardust said as he headed for an overhang in the side of the cliff.

Checking my Pip-Buck I looked over the map, “It looks like the road is just on the other side of the cliffs, but I don’t see a crossing to get through.”

“There’s one a mile or so north of here, we can head for it tomorrow.” Aura said as she went to help Stardust.

“I’m going to go check out the area and make sure no nasty critters are around here.” The Stranger said.

Aura walked over to me, “Shadow go with The Stranger, he’s been walking in the heat all day and I’m afraid he’s going to pass out. Keep an eye on him and make sure he drinks some water.”

I was about to say no, but I always seem to make him stay behind, “You know what, I’d like the company, come on.”

“Awesome!” Wingnut said following me as I headed in the direction The Stranger went.

It didn’t take long for me to catchup, Wingnut not far behind. The Stranger looked back then sighed, “You don’t need to come with Shadow or you either Wingnut.”

“Maybe, but Aura’s worried you may not be doing as well as you say. So, I’m going to make sure you don’t pass out and also to make sure you drink some water,” I said passing him one of my canteens.

He chuckled a little, “Guess I’m just not used to having other ponies with me,” He took the canteen, “Thank you Shadow.”

Wingnut walked over to The Stranger asking, “You feeling okay, you look sad.”

“Honestly kid, I’m getting tired. It’s not easy walking in this heat while wearing all of this gear.” The Stranger said, even his voice sounded tired.

“Then why don’t you just take it off? I mean you can still keep that mask on, but at least you’ll be able to cool off if you take off the jacket and the armor.” Wingnut said.

“Maybe I’ll do that when we are back at camp.” He said, “For now I’d like to keep this on just in case we run into trouble.”

I was scanning the area looking to see if any red bars showed up on my E.F.S. “I’m not seeing anything honestly,”

“I’m not surprised, normally you only see things like Fire Geckos or huge ants but not much else, though every once in a while, you’ll find Hell Hounds around here. I’d feel better sleeping knowing there aren’t any of those monsters wandering around.”

“If Hell Hounds were around here, you wouldn’t see them coming.” Wingnut said, “They’d just jump out of the ground and kill you, that’s what they’re good at.”

I looked down at the hard ground, “Wait you mean Hell Hounds can just pop up from the ground without warning?”

The Stranger and Wingnut looked back at me Wingnut asking, “Did you ever fully read that Wasteland Survival Guide, even Yaksha mentioned Hell Hounds breaking down an entire city surrounded by stone”

“Come on, it’s not like I’ve had time to go through the whole thing. Also stuff is missing in mine, and I haven’t had time to go through Wind Thrasher’s.” I said defensively.

“You really should read it, I’m surprised you’re still alive.” Wingnut said with a laugh.

They both laughed then The Stranger said, “Things are looking fine out here, we should do a sweep closer to the cliffs then head back.”

We were almost back to the cliffs when The Stranger stopped, his ears perking up, “Did you hear that?”

“It sounded like somepony reloading a battle saddle, only it was far away.” He said, still looking around. His hoof came up to one of the gems imbedded in the lining of his jacket ready to tap it.

I was moving my head around looking for anything, when a white line showed up on my E.F.S. it was a little to the side of The Stranger and Wingnut, “Somepony’s out there…”

The Stranger taped his gem right before the gunshot went off. There was a flash of blue light and the next thing I knew, Wingnut and I were a few feet away from where we had just been standing. A hole was in the ground right where I was a moment ago. The Stranger was standing next to me panting, “That was close, both of you get out of here now.”

A voice that reminded me of a ghoul only not as bad, echoed from above us, “Looks like you still have a few tricks up your sleeve Guardian!”

We all looked up and watched as a Pegasus dove and landed a few feet away from us. The Stranger pulled out his Revolver saying around the bit, “who the hell are you!?

This Pegasus had his head covered with a hood and cloak, he wore black combat armor with a few jewels on the chest, his face was covered by a scarf and he had goggles over his eyes. I pulled out Dream Walker, “Buddy you messed with the wrong ponies.”

He turned his head toward me saying, “I think not Courier,” a gem on his combat armor flashed and a moment later it felt like somepony just ripped my horn right off. My magic broke and Dream Walker fell to the ground.

The Pegasus didn’t seem to even care, he lifted his wings revealing a battle saddle with two long guns on it. He pointed them right at Wingnut and me saying, “Courier, stay down and shut up, if you don’t I’ll kill you.”

“I don’t think so, I’ve been trying to find you for a long time Guardian. You’re a hard pony to track down.” The Pegasus said, “Now drop The Demon Slayer before I blow this mare’s head off.”

“How…do you know what my revolver is called?” The Stranger said taking a step back, “Who are you!”

The Pegasus pulled the goggles he was wearing off his face, reveling bright green eyes just like The Stranger’s, “I think you know who I am…Brother.”

“Yeah, I should have died, but fate wanted me kept alive. I’m the Eleventh Guardian. I’m here to put an end to what you and the Enclave are doing, and to put a stop to this monster.” He said pointing a hoof at me, “She has the power from Stargazer, something that no pony should have ever found. You’ve been doing a poor job at keeping our family’s secret safe.”

“No pony Courier, just like that poor excuse for a Stallion you call The Stranger.”

He laughed, his voice sounding like rocks were scraping together, “No he’s not. He couldn’t even save his own family, his filly died because of him, his wife left because of him. He can’t protect anything Courier. Now be quite and let me deal with my brother, I’ll deal with you when I’m finished.”

“Shadow stay out of this, if this really is my brother, then I have a score to settle. Get back to your friends.”

“No pony is going anywhere. If you try and leave, I will stop you.” The Pegasus said, “And don’t even think about teleporting away, that gem I used will keep your magic down for a half hour or so.”

“This is between us, leave Shadow and the kid out of this.” The Stranger said.

“Yeah, and if we aren’t back soon my friend will come looking for us.” I said.

The Pegasus laughed, “No they won’t, Yaksha’s keeping them distracted while I take care of this. We are far enough away that they won’t notice anything, until it’s too late, now sit down and shut up, before I make you.”

“I don’t care who you are, I’m not letting you get away with this.” The Stranger said.

We couldn’t help but watch as The Pegasus walked closer to the Stranger saying, “Eighteen years you’ve been protecting the Project, and still you couldn’t stop Grim from getting to Stargazer could you.”

“You never left me with enough information damn it. I didn’t even know Stargazer was anything until recently. If you would have just given me the information I needed when you were branded I would have known what to do.” The Stranger said.

“If you would have just gone to my hide out you would have found everything you needed. Fuck, I trusted you to protect it, now everything’s going to shit because of you.” The Pegasus said, then he attacked. He didn’t fire his guns, instead he flipped around and kicked the Stranger right in the face.

The Stranger did a back flip then darted at the other pegasus trying to land a blow on his face. The pegasus ducked under the blow and landed another one on The Stranger’s chest. He took hold of one of The Stranger’s wings then used it to slam him to the ground, “What happened to you little brother, last time I saw you, you were a better fighter than this.”

The Stranger used his hind leg to kick the other pegasus off him. Then he attacked again landing a blow on the new comer’s face, “I’ve still got a trick or two,”

The two kept going at it, trading blow for blow. As they fought I looked over at Wingnut, “Try and get back to camp, if what he said is true, Yaksha can’t be trusted. Tell Aura what’s going on.”

Wingnut nodded then made a run for it. He got only a few feet away, then The Stranger was slammed into the ground in front of Wingnut. The Pegasus landed a few feet away, “I said nopony is leaving until I’m finished!”

The Pegasus bucked the Stranger, “Pathetic, to think that dad used to say you were the better fighter. Seems life in the clouds has made you go soft,” his gaze moved toward me, his eyes so much like The Stranger’s it was eerie, “Yaksha said that you have the power of Aquila in you, is that right?”

“I don’t even know why I’m asking, Yaksha already told me about how powerful Aquila has become. I’m sorry young mare, but you have to die, it’s the only way to stop her.” He said aiming his rifle right at me.

The Pegasus froze then looked back at him, “Grim told me that she died, she said that she tried to use Stargazer to save her and the power got away from her. This can’t be Star.”

“Wait a second…Striker…like my father’s brother Striker.” I said, it felt like somepony just slapped me, “I thought Striker was killed in an explosion.”

The pegasus looked between The Stranger and me then said, “I don’t by it, nice try brother, but I know that Star is dead.” He aimed at me again and bit down on the bit for his battle saddle.

“NO!” The Stranger yelled, he tapped his gem again and in a flash of blue light he vanished. The Pegasus’s rifles went off, there was another flash of blue light as the Stranger appeared in front of me, taking the bullets in one side.

I watched as blood shot out, the Stranger’s body flew into me sending us both flying back. The Pegasus swore, “Dammit brother, that was stupid. I meant to give you a beating not kill you.”

The Stranger coughed then said, “Maybe, but I won’t let you hurt her,” Then he pulled out a flash bomb and threw it at The Pegasus then covered me with his body to protect me from the light yelling, “WINGNUT RUN FOR IT!”

There was a flash of light and I heard The Pegasus yell right as Wingnut ran. A moment later The Stranger was pulled off of me and thrown back to the ground. The pegasus who sounded like a ghoul started to slam his hooves into The Stranger yelling, “You’re a fucking fool brother, now I am going to kill you then I’m killing that mare. I’m going to finish what you should have done weeks ago.”

I wanted to help, but my magic was useless. I could try to fight him, but I still wasn’t as good of a fighter as The Stranger and he lost to this Pegasus…to Striker. Was he really the uncle that everypony said died…if so then who was The Stranger, he said he wasn’t my dad so was he another brother I never heard about? Then as I watched Striker slam his hooves into The Stranger, I saw that something had fallen out of his pocket. It was the stuffed bird I’d seen him pull out before and an old photo.

I reached out with my hoof and pulled them close. I looked at the photo first, it was a picture of Mom holding a foal with a white coat and black mane. She was looking down at the foal with so much love in her eyes it was beautiful. Then I picked up the stuffed bird, as I did something about it seemed familiar. I pulled it to my nose and a faint scent came off the bird… “Avon?”

Something snapped in my head, it was like the last of mom’s spells that kept me from remembering my father broke…

“Daddy you look silly in that.” I said as I sat on his bed. He was just finishing putting on the outfit he used for his other job. At least that’s what he called it, his other job.

He looked over at me, the bandage mask over his face making him look like a mummy, “I may look silly to you, but I have to keep this on when I’m working, it’s the only way I can make sure the Enclave doesn’t know who I am. I do this to keep you and your mother safe.”

“Because this is what our family has always done, your Uncle Striker did this before he had to leave The Enclave, my father did this before him, his mother before him and so on all the way back to the creation of The Enclave. One day Star, you’ll have to take over for me, you will be the Thirteenth Guardian.” He said

I looked down at my hooves, “But I’m not strong enough to do what you do daddy.”

He moved close and pulled me into a hug, “One day you’ll be okay, remember that mommy is going to try something new soon. You two will be going on a trip to see if she can cure you.”

He shook his head, then put on a desperado hat, “No sweetie, I have to stay here. The Enclave won’t be happy that mom’s leaving, I have to make sure you two can get as far away from here as you can before they come after you, but mom said that once you’re better you can come home and see me again.”

I pulled my favorite doll close then gave it to him, “Take Avon with you then daddy, he’ll keep you safe while I’m gone.”

He smiled and put the bird in the pocket of his trench coat, “Okay, I’ll make sure he gets back to you safe and sound.”

I saw a tear roll down his face, “I’m going to miss you too my Little Star.”

The memory was quick, but at that moment I knew who the Stranger was. He’d been lying to me the whole time, I’m not sure why, but I knew I was right. I got back to my hooves and I felt power rolling through me as I watched the Pegasus pull a hoof back to land one more blow on The Stranger’s head. The power rolled through me as I yelled, “Get the hell off my DAD!”

I blasted him with my Expulsion Spell, a gem on his armor flashed, but he still was blown off The Stranger and sent flying across the dry landscape. I ran over to The Stranger and knelt next to him as I lifted my hooves I noticed that my coat had turned White. I had to ignore it for now, “Dad…Dad please answer me.”

“Don’t try to lie to me again, I know you’re my dad, I’m starting to remember.”

“But…how, Grim said you wouldn’t ever remember me. She said only one thing could make you remember and she never told me what it was.”

I lifted Avon in my magic, “This was the key, when I saw it again, I remembered the day I gave it to you. Why didn’t you just tell me?”

“Because you wouldn’t have believed me and even if you did, I didn’t have the right to be your dad, not after I let all of this to happen to you.” He said.

Blood was starting to stain the bandages around his mask, “I need to get you back to Aura, but first we have to get the mask off you so I can see how bad your injuries are.”

Looking up I saw that my spell had blown his cloak and scarf off. My eyes went wide as I looked at an older version of the stallion mom had kissed in that memory orb. Only his aqua green coat was covered in burn scars, his mane was short with patches missing in spots. When he spoke I saw that even the inside of his mouth was burned. He must have been in a bad fire or something to have so many bad burns.

“No,” I said stepping over my father, “I’m not letting anypony hurt you not after I finally got you back. Uncle Striker, I’m Shadow Star, Daughter of Grim. Mom lied to you when she said I died, she used Stargazer to save me. Yes, I do have Aquila inside of me and she’s caged and I’m keeping her under control. Now can you please stand down so we can talk about this? If not, I’m not going to let you hurt my dad.”

“He’s a snake, even if you are who you say you are you can’t trust him. He’s been lying to everypony for years now. He uses ponies to get what he wants, he always has, and he even took the mare I loved when I was branded.”

“Really, how much of him do you remember? Do you know his name? What he looks like?”

“I figured, then you should pull off that mask, you’ll understand what I mean then.” He said, “I’ll wait.”

Looking back at my dad I sighed, “Dad, he’s right, you can’t keep hiding your face.”

He tried to get up, but he was too hurt, “Shadow, you don’t know what you’re asking me to do, if anypony around here sees who I am, it will ruin everything.”

“See, you can’t trust him Courier…” Striker started to say, then Yaksha slammed into the ground next to him followed a moment later by Aura.

She pointed her spear at Striker saying, “You better start explaining yourself, because the only reason you’re not dead Pegasus, is because Yaksha told me there’s more going on here than I think.”

“Yes, you lying bitch, you’re lucky I didn’t slit your throat, now spill.” Aura said, anger lacing her voice.

Stardust flew up a moment later followed by Wind Thrasher, he looked over at The Stranger, “Shit, Aura you should help The Stranger he looks bad, I’ll keep an eye on this guy…damn dude what happened to your face?”

“Damn right I did,” Wingnut said from where he was sitting on Aura’s back.

Aura walked over to The Stranger and me, “Damn it, I thought you could handle yourself better than this.”

“Your shot too, I need to get this outfit off of you to see how bad the wounds are.” Aura said.

“This isn’t a debate,” Aura said reaching down to pull his mask off. Something sparked and she jumped back, “The fuck was that.”

Striker was the one who answered, “One of his gems makes it so that only he or his family can take that mask off same for the outfit, it’s how he keeps his identity safe.”

“Dad, I don’t care what you say, I’m taking this off you.” I said reaching down with a hoof and pulling on the mask.

Aura looked over at me, “Wait…this is your dad? How do you keep running into your lost family?”

I ignored her and pulled off my dad’s mask and hat. I dropped it as soon as I did, “No…how the hell didn’t I know?” A dark black face looked up at me, small scars running over his muzzle, nose and neck. His dark blue mane with a single silver strip down the center, and his deep green eyes. Even though I never saw the eyes when I was in Mill City Tower and now I knew why he hid them because I would have picked up on who he was, I still knew that face, “Nightshade!?”

“I guess the cat’s out of the bag now,” Nightshade said, “Sorry I couldn’t tell you who I was before.”

Striker laughed, “Best friend? Nightshade doesn’t have friends. The only ponies he ever cared about was his wife and daughter and even then I’m not sure he really cared, because if he did he would have saved them.”

“I’m…sorry but I couldn’t tell you who I was, Grim made sure of that. I wanted to tell you so many times, even if I could have told you my work as both the Guardian and a Council pony made it impossible for me to show myself. If the Enclave knew you were my daughter they would do anything to use you against me. That’s why I showed myself as The Stranger, so I could help you without the Enclave knowing.” Dad said.

“We can talk later, you need help and I can’t help you here. I have to get you back to camp.” Aura said, “All of you bring those two with you.”

I answered, “Striker from what I can tell you don’t know everything that’s going on. If you want answers then follow, if not, then I’ll put you down here and now. I don’t care if you’re my uncle.”

To my surprise Striker laughed, “Fine, I’ll go with you, but you better answer all of my questions.”

As we started to walk back Wind Thrasher walked over to me asking, “Um…Shadow what happened to your coat?”

I looked down and saw I was still white. Until then I hadn’t noticed that I was still holding onto the power from Aquila, “I can tell you later.” I let go of the magic and a moment later my coat went back to normal, “First both of those Stallions and Yaksha have a lot of explaining to do…”

[FOOTNOTE: LEVEL UP!]

Mysterious Pony Rank 4: Now that you know the truth behind The Stranger’s mask, you know how connected you really are with him and why he goes so far out of his way to protect you more over others. Due to this he will now show up more often in S.A.T.S. and out of S.A.T.S.

Shadow’s Edge Rank 3: You’ve reached the final rank of this perk. You now fully understand what Aquila is and how her power works. With you taking away some of Aquila’s magic you can now use her power to help you in a fight. Along with this, your power has grown along with your control over your own magic. Be careful though, Aquila is cunning and she may not be done with you just yet…

Fallout Equestria: Falling Shadows

by Drako Moon

Chapter 43: Father and Daughter