//------------------------------// // 153 - The Great and Powerful In-law // Story: An Extended Holiday // by Commander_Pensword //------------------------------// Extended Holiday Chapter 153: The Great and Powerful In-law Act 25 Rainbow Dash looked on with wide eyes as Fluttershy guided her through the double doors. Her jaw slacked at the artwork and carvings as Thestrals gathered in the main room of the lodge. The fire pit burned merrily to ward off the last chill of winter from outside. What surprised her most, however, was the fact that Princess Luna was there garbed in ceremonial robes with armor glinting from underneath. The impassive gaze she cast on Rainbow Dash left the mare feeling small and impetuous. Rainbow bowed clumsily, but at least she managed to carry it through. Luna’s shadow blocked out the light as the authoritative tone rang out. “Rise, Dame Rainbow Dash, Dutchess of the Twilight Court.” Rainbow Dash was quick to obey. “Before the marriage ceremony, we have a few orders of business to conduct concerning your noble title.” Rainbow Dash groaned. “Don’t tell me the Solar Court’s throwing a fit over this.” Luna smirked. “No, but while Kahn is considered a son of Pensword, he has no titles within the Pen Clan. Normally, within the Thestrals, if the Mare has the title, it is still retained, but within the new father’s tribe name. However, you are an outsider. That means you have a choice. You may stay in the Twilight Court or—” “Let me cut you off right there, Princess.Sorry, but I stick with Twilight. She gave me the title, and she’s my best friend. There’s no way I’m trading that in.” “Very well, then Kahn will be known by your noble house’s name from tonight onward. He will give up his clan name for yours. But know this; I expect you to still learn about the culture that brought your husband new life.” “Of course. Like I’m going to give that up, just because I got married,” she scoffed. “I’ve still got a tone of questions.” Luna’s expression softened. “Very well. If you’ll come follow me, I will begin the ceremony.” “Hold on. You’re going to do the ceremony? But you’re a Princ—” She stopped as the whole room stared at her. She cleared her throat self-consciously. “High Chieftess?” Luna chuckled. “Forgive my children. It will be hard for a subject of the sun to learn the titles of the night. But that is what Twilight is here for. As the Princess of Friendship, she will help bridge our two noble houses, so we may learn from each other. As for why, as you so aptly put it, I am High Chieftess, and Pensword’s role and honors that he performed previously deserves no less than the High Chieftess’ attentions.” She laughed as she followed up with the next part. “Besides, by Thestral tradition, the father can’t marry his son or daughter. Grandfoals, yes. Foals? No.” “That’s good, um, I think. But if that’s the case, then why am I in here, instead of out there with the other couples?” “Because your ranks and accomplishments dictate you are to be married in the lodge,” Pensword said as he emerged from the cluster of Ponies, flanked on either side by Fox Feather and Lunar Fang in their fox furs and ursa minor robes respectively. They also had a small box with them. “These are your furs to wear for the wedding.” Rainbow Dash opened the package and pulled aside the wrappings to reveal a familiar soft pelt. The rich brown and lush white had been cleaned of the blood from the kill, and the skin had been properly tanned and cured, ready to be worn. The antlers had been crafted into the handles on four daggers. “These blades are to be presented at the ceremony. Two for you, and two for Kahn. It shows the wealth of knowledge and the respect you have garnished for one another.” Pensword reached under his cloak and pulled out a quiver bearing Twilight’s cutie mark. “And this is for you, to represent your true liege in this ceremony. It will remain empty, for the time being.” Rainbow Dash nodded mutely as Lunar Fang and Fox Feather dressed her. Once she was dressed, she was led to a dark room filled with dim lights and moon stones that surrounded a pedestal carved in the shape of a crescent on a rough unpolished natural rock about half Luna’s size. “What’s that?” “The stone is from the ancient meeting grounds,” kahn explained. “The Thestrals have forgotten where the first cave was located, so they bring a stone from the meeting grounds to represent that no matter how far apart they are, they are all of one family.” Rainbow Dash practically squealed as she leaped into the air, then dropped back onto the ground again to whirl on her husband-to-be. “Whoa, whoa, whoa. Where did you come from?” Kahn smirked. “I came from Gryphonia, of course.” Rainbow rolled her eyes. “You know what I mean.” “Doesn’t mean I have to tell you,” he teased. Rainbow sighed. “Okay, I guess you have a point.” Kahn gasped. “Ze great Rainbow Dash showing humility? I shall have to keep my eyes open for more miracles in the future.” Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “So, how’s this wedding go? Because I’m pretty sure it’s probably going to be different than the royal wedding back in Canterlot.” Luna chuckled. “Well, we shouldn’t be so lucky as to have a swarm of Changelings invade during the ceremony, I’m sad to say.” “I know. That was so epic,” Rainbow said with a wistful expression on her face. “Is everyone present?” Luna asked. “I would have assumed you’d have more people to invite.” “I wasn’t sure who to invite when I was told the ceremony was going to be in the lodge. I told them we’d have a reception after. I mean, you don’t let just any Ponies inside. I didn’t want to cause any problems.” “Traditionally, one would call their parents. And parents such as yours, I’m sure, would be notable in this group.” Rainbow Dash winced. “I … really don’t think they’d be good for a wedding ceremony. They can be … a bit much.” “Many foals would give their hind hooves for parents as supportive as Bow Hothoof and Windy Whistles for parents, Rainbow Miriam Dash,” Luna chastised. Rainbow Dash looked desperately at Kahn and Luna, then to Pensword. “I couldn’t fail,” she answered quietly. “They turned every single loss into a victory. They cheered when I got fourth place with the same excitement I got for first. I know foals would like parents like mine, I was told that at school. But all the time?” “Do you tire of scootaloo?” Luna asked Rainbow Dash shook her head a proud look in her eyes. “No. She’s awesome, and one of the best. She’s been there supporting me the whole time.” “But she considers everything you do to be of the utmost ‘coolness,’ no matter if other ponies view it as a failure. You just stated that this very outlook bothered you.” “But that’s … it’s … that’s not—.” She sighed. “Okay, I messed up. Give me a few minutes. I’ll be back.” She flared her wings and tensed for liftoff, but Luna raised a staying wing. “Family is central to Thestral culture. It is, above all else, what ties the tribes together, and why Thestrals have not warred on themselves in such a long time. Normally, I would be unable to continue with the ceremony, simply because you lack a reason why your family should not be at your joining.” Rainbow’s face fell. “But you are fortunate, Rainbow Dash.” Luna smiled as the creak of wood shifting on hinges filled the room. “You have a very honorable fiancé.” “Rainbow?” A familiar mare’s voice asked as the door closed and the Thestrals parted to make way for her. “Mom?” Rainbow yelped as a small sky blue mare with a mane and tail colored two shades of orange dashed forward to hug her daughter. Windy Whistles’ eyes were filled with tears of joy, and she beamed as Rainbow looked over the mare’s shoulder. The larger purple stallion with a rainbow mane and tale was unmistakable, even in his black suit. He smiled and nodded gently. “Dad?” She didn’t know if they had overheard her, but if they didn’t say anything, she wouldn’t either. “I … I honestly didn’t think they’d let you inside when I heard I’d be married in the lodge.” Bow chuckled as he strode forward. “That’s our daughter. I’m so excited for you. Marrying at your age. Kahn is such a responsible Gryphon. Did you know he even went so far as to perform the traditional Pegasus feather offer to ask your hoof in marriage?” He winked playfully at her and Rainbow’s blush deepened. “You did not think I would marry you without first meeting the wonderful Ponies who gave the world such beauty?” Kahn asked with a playful smirk. Rainbow rubbed her mane awkwardly. “Yeah, I … kinda should’ve accounted for that, huh?” “Well then,” Luna cut in smoothly. “If all are present, I think we are ready to begin.” Rainbow Dash nodded and smiled nervously. Kahn took his place by her side. He wore the same armor he’d used on the day he pledged his service to Pensword. The Pony’s cutie mark glinted prominently on the breast plate. A wolf pelt had been attached to the back of the armor. Luna stood before them as everyone shuffled to their places. Fires were lit in large clay pots that gave off a sweet aroma that quickly filled the room. Luna raised her head with all the grace and pride that her station allotted her and spread her wings in an intimidating display. “We gather today to celebrate a joining most unusual, for a Pony and a Gryphon stand before all of us in this sacred place that we might bear witness to their love. Does anyone here speak for this couple?” Pensword beat Rainbow’s parents to the punch. “I speak for them. I speak for their loyalty to one another during a time when such interactions could very well have been frowned upon. I speak on their character that they both would rather molt their feathers than betray the trust they have to one another. I speak on the military prowess that both show, from how Rainbow Miriam Dash battled against Changelings during the attack on Canterlot to how Kahn held duty above all else during the failed coup in Gryphonia. They both are worthy for one another in a Thestral’s eyes.” Windy jumped forward with a boldness Rainbow had only seen used when praising or arguing her victories. Now the mare’s stubbornness manifested in a new light as she addressed the gathering. “As head of my house and herd, I speak for their love, which anypony can see. I speak for their harmony, and I speak for the future I have seen in their natures. This marriage will be long and prosperous. These two are destined for one another in a Pegasus’ eyes.” “A joining is not a venture easily entered into.” Luna eyed both witnesses. “But by the testimony of these two, it is obvious they find this joining to be a fit one. As do I. And so, as speaker for the great bear Ursa Major, and as herald of the moon, I join my words with theirs and bless this joining.” Luna turned her gaze on Rainbow. “Rainbow Miriam Dependable Danger Dash?” “Yes, Ma’am?” “You intend to join yourself to this Gryphon known as Kahn of the house of the Pen?” “Yes, Ma’am.” “You would hunt for him if he is injured or sick?” “Yes, Ma’am.” “You would stand by his side on the field of battle?” “I’d watch his back, so nobody would get the drop on him, Ma’am.” “You would die by his side?” “Gladly.” “And if he should die, would you have the strength to live on in his name?” Rainbow looked to Pensword. “As long as I’m allowed to hunt down the people responsible and live to make him proud.” “Would you raise the glass in his honor?” The next archaic line rose easily to her lips. “He has earned a feast of honor in my eyes.” “And finally, when the time is right, will you, to the best of your ability, give him children to continue his name and your own for the future?” Rainbow Dash finally turned to her fiancé and smiled. “Yes, I would.” Luna nodded approvingly and turned her gaze to Kahn. “Kahn of the house of Pen?” “Yes, Ma’am?” Kahn responded. “You intend to join yourself to the pegasus dame Rainbow Miriam Dash of the tree of Dash and the line of Storm?” “Yes, Ma’am.” “You would hunt for her, if she was injured or sick?” “I would make sure her plate is never empty and her hunger never pains her.” “You would stand by her side in the field of battle?” “I would slaughter her enemies, if she so asked it.” “You would die by her side?” “Happily, knowing the histories would tell of our love till the end of time.” “And should she die, would you have the strength to live in her name?” “Though it would pain me, I would use every day granted to me to tell her story to all who would hear it.” “You would raise a glass in her honor?” “I would lift my tankard high as I sing to her glory.” “And finally, when the time is right, will you, to the best of your ability, give her children to continue her name and your own into the future?” Kahn laughed. “Just as soon as she gives me the look.” “If there is an objection among those gathered to this union, then make the challenge now or accept that the chance is past.” When no one spoke up, Luna continued. “In the name of the great bear and the first grand chieftain and the moon, I bless this joining. May you be happy and prosperous.” Luna lifted Meteor Impact in her magic and let it thump the ground loudly. “The joining is sealed. Let nopony break it apart.” Rainbow Dash grinned and, for the first time in public that anyone in the room had seen, leaned forward and kissed the side of Khan’s beak. Kahn didn’t lose any time. He seized her gently in his talons and hissed her fully. Rainbow soon returned the favor. Fluttershy smiled as she approached Rainbow’s parents. “I hope you can stay the rest of the night. We have some lovely salmon grilling for a feast after the other ceremonies are finished. You should at least stay for this.” “I certainly would say so,” Pensword muttered. This is a Thestral party. For once, Pinkie Pie was invited as a guest. We won’t have to worry about any … surprises.” Fluttershy smiled gently. “I wouldn’t be so sure of that.” Pensword grumbled as he followed his two friends across New Unity. A thick set of sunglasses laid askew on his muzzle to block out the sun’s rays. “Grif, Vital, why did you have to get me up this early in the day? I should be sleeping after last night’s wedding. This is midnight for me now, you know.” “We wouldn’t be doing this if it weren’t important, Vulpix,” Vital said seriously. “I’m … still kind of trying to process it, myself.” He looked nervously at the Gryphon. “How long till we get to your office, Grif?” “Only a few minutes,” Grif said as they were led into the castle and through a few hallways before standing in front of the large door that marked his quarters in New Unity. He quickly ushered them inside. Pensword moved to a hard back chair that had been built with Ponies in mind. He didn’t trust himself to stay awake, if he chose one of the larger chairs. Vital took position by Grif’s desk and nodded grimly to the room’s owner. Grif closed the door and locked it, then moved to his desk and deftly gave the crystal on it a flick with his talon. A moment later, he signaled the room was secured. “You’re aware that Hammer Strike has taken me on as a sort of messenger and courier, right?” Vital asked of the Pegasus. “Yes. And how does this relate to Earth? I assume that’s what this is about, since you used my old name.” Grif reached under his desk and produced three books, one of which Pensword recognized, but thought he’d left in his office. “You know what these are, right?” Grif asked. Pensword’s eyes widened as adrenaline helped pull him into wakefulness. “Grif, how’d you get my copy of Hammer Strike’s translation? You’d have had to know some serious codes to get access to it.” “Pensword, there is not a dark corner on these grounds I don’t know about, not a room I cannot enter, not a lock I cannot pick. The reason we brought you here is because—” Grif lifted the topmost and thinnest book. The sound of its fall barely registered as he dropped it onto the desk. “This is where you are currently in your thaumic studies.” He pulled a second book that was thicker and moderately heavier as it made a satisfying thump on the desk. “This is where Vital Spark is currently.” Finally, he lifted the last volume, which was more than doubly thick as the last one. The detonation rebounded off the walls when it struck the desk. “And this is where I currently am. Would you agree this is quite a visual difference?” “Yes, it is.” Pensword raised a questioning brow. “Am I supposed to be doing something new? Is this a new lesson? And why is Vital here? Is he becoming my teacher?” Grif created a crystal in the center of his outstretched palm and handed it to Pensword. “Disperse it safely.” Pensword stretched out a wing, balanced the crystal, and closed his eyes to feel the aspect with his thaumic field. He smiled as he recognized the familiar rush of the air aspect. Within thirty seconds, the crystal was shrinking as the aspect flowed around his wing. Surprisingly enough, the energy bonded directly with his field, rather than dispersing into the room, like he expected it to. Still, the energy was small, so it wouldn’t put too much strain on him. He opened his eyes and smiled at his feat. “I’ve been dissipating crystals since I got back from Zebrica.” "You know," Grif said as he pulled out a match and lit it with a flick, "I don't work with fire often. That's Hammer Strike’s thing." He placed one hand beside the flame and dragged both across the desk’s surface. Vital and Pensword watched red crystal manifest and disperse as Grif’s hand moved. “Pensword, I blame myself for you being this far behind. Clearly, I have been so waylaid in my duties that I have been a poor teacher. And sad to say, I don’t know if I can continue to teach you with the current gap between us.” “So, Vital’s going to be my teacher? And I can see the gap. You’re dissipating the Crystals faster than me.” “Pensword, I’ve been going over the numbers with Hammer Strike.” Grif looked to Vital and received a nod. “If you can’t make some real strides soon, your field may dissipate entirely.” “But it’s stronger than when I lost communication with the other side. I’ve been working to improve it. Are you saying my efforts aren’t good enough? How do I make these strides?” Grif shook his head. “You got used to the ten pound weight. The problem is you went for the eleven, rather than the fifteen. You’re not moving fast enough to counter your own atrophy, and we both know you can’t afford to be without this power when the time comes.” “Then what is the sixteen pound weight step?” “Vital will start teaching you the basics of things like thaumic vision through a focus and working with aspects you’re still not comfortable with. Hopefully, he’ll be a more apt instructor.” Vital took up the narrative. “So that means I get to teach you from now on. Since you seem to take the military approach best, I’ll try to keep that in mind when we’re going through our lessons. We’ll be meeting here in Grif’s office on a regular basis at first, to prevent any people from overhearing us, at least until the proper protective enchantments and other precautions are finished being installed in our workroom. Speaking of which, Taze, when is that crystal supposed to be getting shipped in from the Empire?” “It’s already enroute,” Grif assured him. “You’ll have your classroom ready by the end of next month.” “Grif, how’d you get past my crystal trap to get the book in the first place, though?” Pensword asked. “I didn’t open the drawer. I went through the back.” Grif put the thaumic crystal in question down. “Not that it would have worked, anyhow.” “I’m not even at that stage yet,” Vital agreed. “Now, that being said, Pensword, we’re going to take our first lesson right here and right now.” The Unicorn smiled as he levitated Pensword’s glasses off his face, revealing bloodshot eyes resting on a bed of puffy bags.”Now, you’ve learned how to control your field and have it interact with other aspects. Our next step is to focus that knowledge to not only feel the aspects around you, but actually be able to see them.” He touched the lenses with his horn, then levitated the glasses back onto Pensword’s muzzle. “Tell me what you see.” “I see you and Grif, and I see outlines around both of you. Grif in green and Vital, you’re a light blue. I also see, I think, something in one of the drawers in Grif’s Desk. And … the books have a faint aura to them as well. White.” He paused and his brow furrowed. “I see flecks of blue on both of you. And they are around the tools Hammer Strike has made for you. So does that mean blue is Hammer Strike?” He lifted his own hoof to look at it. The outline was a dark blue. “Okay, Vital. You can shut it down. By the way, how do I do that myself? How long can you hold it? Does it mean the longer you hold it, the stronger your field is?” Vital sighed and shook his head as the auras faded from Pensword’s vision. “We’ve got a lot of work to do.” “One warning I feel prudent to say,” Grif noted. “There are several beings on this world, beings acquainted with divine status. Do not look at them thaumically.” “You have my word,” Pensword swore. “And you also have mine,” Vital agreed. “Now, Pensword.” He levitated the lightest of the three volumes over, followed shortly by the middle one. “If you would be so good as to open to chapter three, it’s time to cover the theory behind the practice. Oh.” He smiled sweetly. “If you start falling asleep, I’m going to dump ice cubes down your back. Now let’s get started.” “I’ll leave you two to it.” Grif smiled as he gestured for Vital to take the comfy chair behind the desk. He watched patiently for the inevitable and was soon rewarded. Pensword rubbed at his eyes with his wings. Grif flipped a torch holder on the wall and left via an opening that appeared. It clicked shut silently just before Pensword lowered his wings. A smirk pulled on his face as he placed a bet with himself on just how long it would be before the Pegasus’ startled cry echoed down the passageway. He was not disappointed. A lone figure in a black cloak passed through the streets of Grif’s compound in the dead of night, shepherded by four guards that flanked him in on all sides as they ghosted along to one of the many identical buildings that Grif had insisted be included in the living quarters’ construction. There was a swift knock, followed by an even swifter press into the building itself. Three candles flickered on a large wooden table, where two elder Gryphons flanked one younger. All wore leather armor and a series of handy weapons for close combat. “All right, boys,” a familiar voice said as he threw back his hood to reveal a sea-like mane. “What’s Grif been doing that needs him to send a representative to stir things up in my turf? If we’re going to have to work together, anyway, I’d like to know at least a little about why.” “Grif needed as much attention in one spot as possible,” the young one noted. “We all thought that since most of the castle staff would be with you anyway, we’d kick the bees’ nest a little, as you seem to enjoy having all the Pony business exclusive to you.” “Now now, you all know that’s not true. We all agreed Ponyville was fair game for both sides.” “Yes, but you’ve taken both the castle and the Thestrals for yourself,” one of the larger Gryphons noted. “We’re lucky Grif and his unit are so close or we wouldn’t even have been aware of your little meeting the other night.” “I see. Are you saying Grif would prefer to be kept apprised of these events?” “We’re saying that you’re cinching us out. That's not what Unity’s about. We’re supposed to be working together here.” The other elder laid his elbows on the table and rested his beak pensively on his hands. So, how are we going to fix this problem?” “Last I recall, you gentlegryphs were perfectly happy with our original arrangement. Gambling is practically a religious virtue with most of you.” Bookie stroked his chin. “That being said, I can understand your dilemma. There are a variety of possibilities we can make use of to … alleviate this situation. One of the first being a dual partnership, of course, in which we all have an equal say and share in profit distribution and setting betting pools.” “No more secret gatherings?” the middle Gryphon spoke up. “Especially regarding Gryphons we may or may not have knowledge about?” “I’m an honorable business colt. I don’t deal with your Gryphons unless they come to me directly, and I’ve made sure to alert them to your local services, when they’ve arrived.” “The Thestrals were supposed to be neutral territory,” the younger Gryphon growled, “and we know you’ve been getting all the business there. Don’t try to pretty things up, Bookie. We’re businessmen, too. Let’s not lie to each other.” Bookie smirked. “An honest bookie? Are you trying to destroy the world?” “Grif doesn’t want any violence between our races. He also wants everything low key. Gambling’s fine here in Unity, but you know how the princesses are. If we want to keep the good thing we’ve got going here, we need to come to some kind of actual agreement, none of this territory garbage that's not working.” “I’ve put forth a suggestion, boys,” Bookie said frankly. He narrowed his gaze. “Now what’s your counter proposal?” “How much do you stand to make off the bets regarding Blue Eyes?” “Given the number of troops involved, at least five thousand, assuming nobody wins their bets.” “Well then, how about you give us ten percent to pay for the misunderstanding that happened earlier, and from now on we meet up regularly and go over the books? We put everything into the pot and split it up equally. Equal risk, equal gain.” Bookey frowned. “That could potentially cut into both our profits, but it is a fair proposal,” he admitted. “And assuming all goes well in the long run, we might be able to try an exchange of sorts between our employees to better help with the integration Grif and Hammer Strike are working toward.” “Very well.” “And do all three of you agree?” Bookie pressed. The three gryphons considered everything for a time and exchanged furtive glances. The nods were barely perceptible. The young one in the center spoke up. “You have a deal, Bookie.” Bookie smirked as he rose onto his hind hooves and rubbed his forehooves together. “Then let’s get to talking numbers, shall we?” He levitated a notepad out from his cloak’s pocket. As is the inevitable nature of mother nature, the seasons finally turned in the Everfree, and green leaves began to shoot forth in delicate buds as the snow thawed and the ground began to soften. The sweet scent of fresh flowers wafted their perfumes through the air as cartload after cartload of the things rolled through the gates in a steady procession. The Ponyville Orchestra soon followed suit, led by their brilliant chairpony, Miss Octavia Melody. The air rang with the blows of hammers and nails as a stage and dance floor were rapidly assembled. Guards and mercenaries alike patrolled with utmost diligence at Grif’s explicit command. Given the potential consequences he listed, should they fail, they were especially motivated in their exercises. Excitement and trepidation hung in the air as each of the Ponies, Gryphons, and other races did their part to prepare for yet another wedding in New Unity. In an unusual turn of events, Trixie had decided not to go with any bridesmares or a mare of honor. Instead, she had chosen to focus more on enjoying the wedding preparations with the colt she had come to adore. The pair were busy sharing some much needed private time in the kitchens as they polished off a float together with noses touching in a manner that many would call cute and outright adorable. They would not, however, rank it anywhere near the level of toxic sweetness that was the Cutie Mark Crusaders’ begging stares. “Nervous?” Trixie asked. “Well, I am about to dive into one of the biggest events in both of our lives in the next couple of days,” Vital said with a playful smile. “Don’t you think I should be?” “I suppose. I, however, am excited.” She smiled. “I can’t believe we’re going to finally do it!” “I wonder which it you’re referring to,” Vital said as he wiggled his brows playfully. “The vows or what comes after?” “Can’t I look forward to more than one thing?” she purred. “Well, I can’t say that I fault that logic. After all, if they’re both in the future, it’s hard not to look forward to both, isn’t it?” He chuckled and reached over to peck her on the cheek. “I do love you, you know. I love how you make me laugh, how we can play with one another without taking offense, how you’ve grown into such an amazing mare in such a short amount of time. I can’t help but wonder, though. What did make it so you wanted me, of all the stallions you could have had?” “What stallions could I have had?” Trixie laughed. “I was a prisoner working to prove I was more useful alive than dead. You were the first one beside Clover to care about what happened to me. You were my friend. You made me happy. As to the rest, I can’t say when it happened, just that it did.” “Okay, but I do have one last request. Do you think that next time, maybe I can do the rescuing? I think I’ve had enough of being the damsel in distress.” Vital smirked as he kissed his bride-to-be on the lips. “I make no promises. After all, you have a knack for getting into trouble.” Trixie smiled. The tender moment was soon blown apart, however, when a bright green light suddenly flashed through the windows, followed by a tremendous explosion and a penetrating voice that caused the very stones to shake. “I am here! I have come! Merasmus has risen!” “Uncle Merasmus?” Trixie spoke, completely flabbergasted. “Fools! You dare to raise your weapons against me, the Great Merasmus?” The sound of metal striking harmlessly against magic paired with the screams of the flower sisters and many a civilian. “Where is she? Where have you taken her? If my little Moon has been harmed in any way, so help me—!” Trixie’s horn lit up in it’s dual toned magic as they teleported directly into the courtyard, where the charred remains of the stage and dance floor circled a swamp-green-furred Pony with a ram’s skull covering his head. A tight hood obscured any signs of a mane as his cloak billowed and wrapped around him with the green necrotic energies of his magic. A large leatherbound tome hung at his side, wrapped in a series of straps to hold it there, while the simple gnarled staff he held in his hoof blazed with his horn. The wooden top jutted at a ninety-degree angle, then hooked over its edge to form an almost warped sort of hook. There were no focus stones, no items to store the energies that he now called upon. If anything, the extra energy almost certainly had to come from the book at his side. Trixie promptly advanced on the stallion, seized him in her magical grip, and lifted him into the air. She glared. “Uncle Merasmus, you stop this at once! You’re ruining the flower arrangements for my wedding!” The green light behind the stallion’s eyes ceased to glow as the Unicorn’s staff clattered to the ground and he gaped at the tall and imposing Alicorn that now stood before him. “L-L-Lula!” he sputtered. “My little moon? Is that really you?” “Trixie has gone through some changes, Uncle Merasmus,” Trixie said as a blush rose in her cheeks. “Lula?” Vital asked as his smile broadened. “Trixie!” Merasmus sobbed as he reached out to embrace his niece. That reach soon turned into a flailing, since his niece still held him in her magical grasp. “Merasmus was so worried about you!” “If I let you go, do you promise to stop destroying my wedding?” Trixie asked. “W-wedding?” Merasmus spluttered. “But you were being held prisoner!” “That was over a year ago, Uncle Merasmus.” Trixie rolled her eyes. “But I was in the planes of hell only for a half hour to gather my dark powers!” “Everyone down! He’s got a book! He’s got a book! He’s going to read!” Two identical voices cried out together in equally grating tones. “Oh, hello, Soldiers,” Merasmus said absently. He groaned. “Don’t tell me the rest of those buffoons are here, too.” “Ze Scouts were sent on lookout, if zat makes you feel any bettah,” one of the Medics commented as he walked up to the Soldier. “SOLDIERS!” Pensword bellowed as he slammed onto the cobblestones in full battle armor and glared at the two Ponies in green helmets. “Who is that?” He pointed at Merasmus. The Soldiers shrugged as each deadpanned. “Worst roommate ever, Sir!” “Roommate?” Pensword deadpanned. “He was a roommate?” “FOOLS! It is you who were the worst roommates ever!” Merasmus interjected. “Okay, all zaniness and living memes aside, can we please get around to calming everypony down and repairing all the damage you caused?” Vital asked. “Trixie and I would rather not have to worry about another delay in the wedding when we’re this close to finishing, and the delegates from Zebrica are going to be on their way here any day now.” Trixie separated the Unicorn’s staff from his grip and teleported it away. “I’ll just put that somewhere safe, until we’re done.” “And the bombinomicon?” Vital asked. Merasmus gasped. “How do you know of the bombinomicon?” Vital pointed to the Soldiers. “Oh. Fair point.” “Do you promise not to use its powers or summon a horde of monsters and demons or anything like that to disturb your niece’s wedding?” Vital pressed. “As if I, the Great Merasmus, would ever do anything to effect the happiness of my ward,” he sniffed. Vital turned to Trixie. “Can I take that as a yes?” “Yes, probably about as straight of an answer as you’ll get.” “And when he says ward, does he mean that he’s your legal guardian, or at least was when you were growing up?” “He was the one who taught me about illusion magic and the only one who cared when I was unhappy, so he was the closest to a caring adult I ever had.” “Then in that case….” Vital turned to Merasmus and bowed his head. “I know this isn’t strictly necessary, but I’m a formal colt, raised by formal parents. Merasmus, since you’re the closest thing she has to a proper father figure, it falls to you to answer this question in lieu of her birth parents. May I have the honor of your niece’s hoof in marriage?” Merasmus narrowed his gaze. “We shall see, boy. First, I believe a few tests are in order.” His horn began to glow as the book leaped against its confines. “I believe you promised not to use that book during your stay here,” Vital said coolly. “If you would prefer to test my skills in combat, however, I think I can manage.” He smiled as the staff the titans had crafted for him materialized in his magical grasp. “Trixie, would you mind officiating the duel?” Merasmus grinned. “This upstart has spirit. I like that. But you shall not prevail against the might and power of Merasmus the Wizard!” Trixie sighed and shook her head. “Colts.” Hammer Strike sighed to himself as he made his way back to his office. His projects were on the backburner, so he had plenty of time for his apprentice. His thoughts drifted to a multitude of lessons that he could work on next, but in which order was still up in the air. Tower Shield saluted him as he passed into his office, meaning he had no ‘guests’ arrive while he was gone. A neat stack of papers with an emerald sitting atop them laid on his desk, meaning Silent Collector and Oracle had finished the next stack for him to work on, though he didn’t remember them using gems for paperweights. He sighed to himself as he sat in his chair, removed the gem from the stack, and began sorting through what needed his attention. He didn’t get too far in before a strange noise chirped insistently in his ears. He frowned as he searched for the source and found the emerald pulsing with light. He shifted the paper stack aside and grabbed the emerald once more, turned it over, and scanned it in his hoof. “I see you finally arrived in your office,” a voice came from the gemstone. Hammer Strike frowned as he scanned the gemstone thaumically once more, only noting a faint connection to somewhere else. “Yes, it’s a relay for me to speak to you,” the voice commented simply. “Though I didn’t expect a fragment such as you to possess the same extent of power as your whole.” “Fragment?” Hammer Strike questioned finally. “Clearly, you’re a fragment, though I’m unsure for how long, as you seem to gather more of yourself as each month goes by.” The voice sighed. “Since you don’t recognize me, I guess I’ll start anew. The name’s Broker, and it’s been a long time since I had the opportunity to speak with you, Hammer Strike.” Hammer Strike hummed to himself. If he knew this person in the past, or his future, then they knew more than he did at this point, though he still didn’t understand the whole fragment reference. “You’re looking into the Alicorn island,” Broker stated. “I’ll tell you right now, you’re not going to find anything else on it.” “And the reason behind that is?” “Because that book you’re studying isn’t going to be made whole through your current methods.” “What do you mean by that?” It took a minute before Broker finally spoke up again. “The Alicorns hid the knowledge somewhere out of reach. In particular, the world where your companions came from.” It didn’t take much more for Hammer Strike to realize he was dealing with someone who knew way too much. “The other world?” “Yes, where Peter, Matthew, and Conor come from, though I never caught the name of it.” He gave a faint chuckle. “I suppose I could look into asking them. Perhaps Grif, since he holds a network around the world. It wouldn’t take too much to get a connection set up.” Hammer Strike didn’t have much he could say, having lost himself in thought. “Look, I know you don’t know me, but I can assure you, I’m trying to help you.” He sighed. “I want my friend and ally back, and if it means having you return to places that struck a chord with you, I’ll give you all you gave me.” “‘Places that struck a chord?’” “I don’t know, places that had significant events happen to you. You only gave me bits and pieces of your past transgressions. Perhaps you going to these places will awaken your memories and reform you once more.” Hammer Strike frowned as he thought it over. “All right, I’ll follow along. What have you got?” “Within your desk, the drawer with the lock, I placed a sheet with the translation of the tablet on it. It’ll tell you where in that world they hid the fragments, at least, where they hid it back then.” Hammer Strike opened the drawer to reveal the parchment of note, just as the voice had said. “I’m not even going to ask,” Hammer Strike muttered. “Let me clear this up,” Broker started. “Locks mean nothing to me, nor do encryptions, nor do magical frequencies. If I want to get to something or get something done, it will be gotten and it will be done.” Hammer Strike frowned as he relocked his drawer and placed the parchment into his coat for later. “Where do we go from here?” “Keep this relay in your pocket somewhere, and I’ll keep in touch when needed. Until then, I’ll leave you to your guest.” Hammer Strike suddenly became aware of the fact that someone was walking up to his office. When he looked back at the gem stone, the light had died and the voice was gone, leaving him with the inevitable conclusion that Broker had deactivated it for the time being. His frown deepened as he stashed the gem in his breast pocket. “Come in, Grif.” The Gryphon jumped straight to the point as he shut the door behind him. “I have some updates on Daring’s book. It’s not looking good,” he admitted. Hammer Strike suddenly sealed the room around them thaumically. “I don’t think we have to worry about that for much longer.” He reached into his coat and passed the parchment over to Grif. “Someone else already translated the tablet for us.” Grif snatched the paper. “The hell? I have people all over Equis looking for leads on this. Who do you know that i don’t?” “Someone from the past, it seems.” Hammer Strike frowned. “His name’s Broker. Kept calling me a fragment of myself. He says he’s helping in hopes it will ‘make me whole again.’ He knows a lot, and I do mean a lot. He knows of your network, what we’ve been looking for, and of the fact that you’re from Earth.” “Can we trust him?” Grif raised an eyebrow. “He didn’t appear to hold any ill will toward us. And with everything he knows, he could have already put a severe hold on ninety percent of the things we have going. He snuck into my office undetected, and into New Unity without anyone knowing, it seems.” The Earth Pony furrowed his brow. “He clearly knows our weak spots, but only focused on helping us.” “It’s unsettling, but I suppose there isn’t much we can do about it right now.” “He said he might contact you sometime in the future, so keep an eye out.” “You know I will. Maybe, hopefully, I can catch something you might have missed.” “Hopefully so.” Hammer Strike frowned. “Because I do not want a repeat of this.” “Perhaps we should add to your security detail?” “We’ll look into that later. I want to know what we’re looking up against what’s on that parchment.” “I’ll take it to Clover.” “Good. Let me know as soon as any new information surfaces.” “All right, guys. Is the blindfold really that necessary?” Vital Spark asked as he was ushered along by hoof, wing, and talon. “It’s not like I’m going to catch sight of your plans just by walking down a hall.” “But where’s the fun in that?” Pensword replied. “It’s part of the charm.” “Did you have to be blindfolded at your bachelor parties?” “I’d just taken a fortress said to be unconquerable. We didn’t have the luxury of a bachelor party. There was a war going on. But the time after the wedding was, well, it was where we conceived Moon River.” “Grif, Hammer Strike? Assuming you two are here, back me up here!” Vital exclaimed. “I don’t think I had one either,” Grif noted. “In either case.” “I burn through most blindfolds, so…” Hammer Strike shrugged helplessly. “So, I pretty much have to endure it till we arrive, don’t I?” Vital sighed. “Pretty much,” Pensword replied cheerfully. “Great. Just great.” Vital snorted and rolled his eyes behind the blindfold. How much farther, Rook?” “Why tell you? It’ll spoil the surprise.” “... I hate you all so much right now.” “Aww, now that’s just adorable.” Grif chuckled as they continued down the hall. Trixie blinked in utter shock at what had just transpired. The pink Pony had defied the very laws of physics yet again, this time by literally falling to pieces after the mare had let out a startled yelp and a bolt of magic that struck the wall and bounced off of several carefully placed mirrors to finally smash into a giant disco ball that began to spin and fire off colored beams of light with silhouettes of a familiar mare in a long cloak with a cocked and pointed hat. Hooves waved over a crystal ball. Fireworks stood frozen above a glowing horn. A focus smashed against training dummies. A great scythe cleaved through a blob that she assumed was meant to be a facsimile of Chrysalis without actually being Chrysalis. After all, the party mare didn’t generally condone that sort of violence. Crazy antics and magic bolts were one thing. Killing was another. It didn’t take long for the partygoers to recover as Pinkie’s parts burst into confetti and streamers and the party mare appeared in another part of the room with a triumphant, “Tada!” “What is this?” Trixie asked, looking around in utter confusion. “It’s your bachelorette party, of course, silly! You’re getting married. Every mare’s supposed to have one of these before the big day,” Pinkie said as she pulled Trixie’s head close and blew a large party horn. “But Trixie has no friends for such a party,” Trixie noted. “You still deserve it,” Pinkie noted, “so even if we’re not friends, we’re gonna make this a night to remember. Cue the music, Gummie!” Pinkie shouted. Over in the corner, Vinyl Scratch stood at her turntable with both hooves on the records. Gummy blinked a few times, then swung his tail with deliberate slowness to nudge the needle onto the record. Music blasted into the room. “Come on. Music, games, drinks, food, and not a colt in sight. Time for a girl’s night, baby!” Pinkie zipped over to the center of the room and pulled out her party cannon from … nowhere, but somewhere. She yanked on the cord and sent a shower of confetti all over. “As official mare of ceremonies and party planner, I now proclaim this bachelorette party officially started!” Various mares from Clover’s training workshops and courses stood there with sheepish smiles on their faces. Twilight, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rarity each offered a casual salute or other means of introduction, but Rarity was the first to actively approach the mare properly. “Darling, with all our rush over your order, I don’t think I ever got the chance to say this. I do hope you’ll forgive me for being so careless, but welcome to the family.” She smiled. “How do you figure that?” Trixie asked with a raised eyebrow. “Vital Spark views Hammer Strike, Grif, and Pensword as brothers, and they likewise him. True, it’s not a blood-bond, but the connection is still strong between them.” “Interesting…. Tell trixie something. What happened to the remains of her cart?” she asked. Rarity winced. “Honestly, I can’t say.” “That cart was more than a stage, you know. It had been my home since I left Neigh Orleans. I pulled it from one end of this country to the other. I played shows in towns from Little Hoof to Appleloosa and cities from Trottingham to Manehatten. It held all my spare clothing, everything I owned in the world, including drawings given to me from foals, foals who had seen my show and, much like my exemplar Hoofdinni did for me, were inspired by it. “All the time I had that cart, I found good ponies who took my show goodnaturedly and met my challenges with grace and laughter. It’s funny I should lose it in the town with so little self esteem that they had to heckle me from the crowd and took my tricks as a personal insult. The day I lost that cart, I lost my credibility as a stage magician. I feel no pride over what I did under the effects of the alicorn amulet, but a nice party and a dress do not sweep old wounds under the rug. I don’t hate you, but it will be a long time before I can consider you family.” Rarity frowned. “I admit, there are some things that still bother me as well, and I’d like to understand more. Namely, why did you come to Ponyville and make such outlandish claims in the first place?” Trixie levitated a cup of punch over and took a sip to gather her thoughts. “Have you ever been in a play, Rarity?” Trixie asked. “Or at least seen a play?” “Yes.” “Do you honestly believe that every year they have a Unicorn named Princess Platinum who’s whiny and self-centered, a Pegasus named Commander Hurricane who’s aggressive and cocky, and a possibly insane Earth Pony named Chancellor Puddinghead go on stage and learn a lesson when a mare named Clover the Clever discovers the fires of friendship?” Trixie asked. “Well, no, I suppose not,” Rarity said. “It’s called a persona. I would figure for one who considers herself connected with the world that you would at least be familiar with the term. It’s used all the time in operas and plays, and even among models, I believe.” “And you were modeling this persona when you … oh, dear.” A few too many things clicked into place at once. “No wonder you were so angry at us.” “Thank you for the dress, Rarity, but please understand it will be some time before old wounds heal.” With that said, Trixie turned around and left to join a separate group of Ponies, while Rarity was left to ponder her own personal failings. “Okay, Grif, lay it on me,” Vital sighed as he eyed the critical fail he had just rolled in their campaign. “The luck of the Irish is clearly not with me tonight.” “Your fireball collapses before you can throw it. Take…” Grif gave a roll and let out a whistle. “Six points of fire damage.” “And that’s what I get for choosing an ice dragon for my character.” Vital groaned and smacked his muzzle against the edge of the table. “Murphy, old friend, why don’t you get us a couple of drinks? I get the feeling it’s going to be a long campaign.” Pensword smiled as he rolled. It was his third character and they finally let him be a Ranger. “And I crit hit with my bow.” He rolled again. “And max damage with my dice.” He looked to Grif. “I told you I had to be a Ranger.” Big Mac just smiled behind his tankard as Spike stared at the dice. Hammer Strike hummed to himself as he turned the page of the book he was reading. It had been mutually agreed that he would have to oversee the game and interact only as a deity brought in by the DM when he constantly kept rolling crits on everything for the character build. “And while the ranger’s shot flies true, a massive gust of wind blows in an opposing direction of the arrow, causing it to veer off wildly,” Grif noted, not looking up from his screen. Pensword ground his teeth in frustration, but held his tongue. “My turn. My turn!” Spike grinned as he snatched the dice greedily and shook them fiercely in his talons. “I cast a freeze spell to hold our adversaries in place!” He rolled, and the whole room held its breath. Everyone groaned as the die landed on a seven. With the dragon’s Charisma modifier, that boosted the value up to a measly ten. “You hit, but the spell isn’t strong enough to penetrate their armor,” Grif informed the dragon. “Then it falls to me,” Pipsqueak said. “And me!” Button Mash added. “Ready for a double team, Pipsqueak?” The young foal grinned as the two of the seized their dice. “My barbarian uses ferocious roar to confuse the enemy and demoralize them.” Pipsqueak let the die fly. He grinned. “YES!” he crowed. “Eighteen with a modifier of plus two to give me twenty!” “Your roar rumbles through the air, terrifying all who hear it and causing your enemies to stumble as they attempt to back off.” Grif grinned. “My turn,” Button said savagely. “I attack with a flurry of hammer blows!” The room let out a collective gasp as the die rolled to a halt against Grif’s divider. It nearly landed on a devastating nineteen, only to knock back to reveal a miniscule two. “Aw man,” he groaned. “A five?” “Sorry, Button. Somehow, you manage to miss your flurry of blows,” Grif sighed. “I use my paladin’s skill to reroll!” Button cried out quickly as he snatched up the die again. “Come on,” he whispered. “Please….” He threw the die. It bounced. It tumbled. It rolled, and stopped just short of the table’s edge with a prominent nine. “Twelve,” he sighed. “I guess that’s better than five.” “They’re scared and confused, so i’ll give you this one,” Grif said. “Roll for damage.” A new die rolled. It landed on two. “Well, you hit for two damage.” “I guess that’s better than nothing, and my armor’s super tough, so I should be okay.” Button sighed. “Still wish I’d rolled better.” “Such is the way of things in games of chance,” Vital said sagely. “Oh, I love these games,” Chance said with a grin as he hovered over the table. “How about you, Hammer Strike?” “I do as well, but your sister takes some of the fun out of it.” Hammer Strike chuckled as he gave a quiet response. “You mean Destiny?” “Luck, in particular.” “Fate always calls her a big flirt. Is she bothering you?” Chance asked as he eyed the golden mist that was his sister floating through the room and fltting from player to player. “It’s all right. So long as they’re having fun, I’m content. Perfect characters tend to get boring.” Chance went rigid. “... She gave you … a perfect character?” “Either that or I’m lucky enough on my own,” Hammer Strike shrugged. “Strangely hard to tell sometimes.” “How many times?” he asked. The once-childish demeanor had fallen away to a deadly sobriety that struck a startling contrast on the young face. Hammer Strike shrugged. “Two character sheets.” “... I see. Excuse me for a moment, Hammer Strike.” Chance turned on the golden mist and his voice suddenly bellowed in a deep reverberating bass as he stomped his hoof on the ground. “LUCK!” Grif winced and shivered. “Hammerstrike, try to keep it down, will ya?” he yelled semi-goodnaturedly. “I’ll see what I can manage.” Hammer Strike sighed. The golden mist thickened into a great clod that swirled and caressed several of the beings present. It was noticeably slower around Grif and Hammer Strike, before it finally coalesced in front of Chance in the form of a Unicorn mare with a swirling mane and tail in a familiar style reminiscent of a certain fashionista. “Yes, Chance?” she asked in a sultry and innocent tone. “Don’t you ‘yes, Chance’ me, young lady. You’re deliberately warping the odds again. I’ve warned you about this.” Chance flared his wings, and his shadow swelled to immensity behind him as his fury continued to build. “You’re ruining the fun, and more importantly, you’re interfering with my duties. Once or twice earning the maximum roll is one thing. Four times is incredible. More than twenty separate rolls is practically impossible to accomplish on chance alone, and much more than luck. You’re going to stop ruining his chances at playing with his friends or I’m going to have to send you to your room and tell on you.” “But I have to do so little for him,” she purred. “He is inherently so much more than most mortals.” Hammer Strike looked up from his book at this point with a questioning brow. “Oh. Something I said interested you?” Luck asked Hammer Strike. “I’m curious as to what you mean,” Hammer Strike clarified. “What I mean by what?” Luck fluttered her eyelashes at him. “‘More than most mortals.’ I’m curious as to how far of a difference in terms of the embodiments.” “Most mortals are born with an inherent luck value,” Luck explained. She waved her hand around the room and numbers popped over people's heads. Most ranged from ten to sixteen. Grif had a twenty over his head. “And from there, I just prod them every now and then to make things a little more odd, but I’ve never seen a mortal or even an immortal with a score above twenty-five. She reached above Hammer Strike’s head and seemed to grab something, which she tugged down for him to see a forty-two hovering softly above her hoof. “That explains a few things,” Hammer Strike hummed. Chance frowned. “I still don’t like it,” he groused. “Yet is beyond either of our control,” Luck reminded him. “Did you prod him during the setup?” “Not really,” Luck admitted. Chance sighed. “Then I guess I owe you an apology.” His wings tucked tightly to his side as he hung his head and his ears drooped. “Sorry, Sis.” Luck shrugged as she began to lose cohesion and disperse. “It’s fine.” “See you at the family dinner?” “Of course.” “Damn it!” Vital swore. “... After I attend to the rest of the game.” “Thanks for letting us try this, Trixie,” Sweetie said with a smile as she continued to run the file over the Alicorn’s hoof. “We never gave anypony manicures before!” “Still no sign of a cutie mark, though,” Applebloom noted as she applied a green paste to Trixie’s face. “Darn,” Scootaloo said, then resumed sticking her tongue out as she struggled to work with braiding Trixie’s mane. Trixie smiled indulgently. “I’m sure you’ll each find your mark in time.” “Say, Trixie, now that you’re, you know, an Alicorn and all that, does that mean you really could beat an Ursa if you tried?” Sweetie asked curiously. “I won’t make any judgement until I have a chance to test it this time.” Trixie found herself suddenly grateful for the mask Applebloom was applying. “I heard a guard say Princess Luna did it once. Maybe you can ask her for some tips.” “Perhaps,” Trixie agreed. “Is the lady ready for her massage?” Bulk asked as he cracked his neck and shrugged his shoulders. “Okay, girls. Can you let me go for now?” Trixie looked to the CMC. “Statistics show that a proper massage is the best way to relax and get rid of pre-wedding jitters,” Dinkie said matter-of-factly. “That, and maybe a little telepathic nudge.” “We can take care of our own makeovers while we wait,” Sweetie said. “It’ll be fun!” Scootaloo looked like she was ready to gag. “That’s not the word I’d use.” Apple Bloom smirked as she held up a gob of face mask. “Who says we have ta do it the usual way?” A collective shudder passed through the room, and Bulk hastened to escort his client behind the screen that had been erected for privacy and possibly protection against what the fillies may or may not have had planned. Apple Bloom shouted at the top of her lungs. “Mud fight!” She flung a gob of the substance at Scootaloo. To the ends of time, nopony would be able to explain how the girls managed to get the entire room coated in the stuff, not to mention how the solution had separated to expose the key ingredient of tree sap, which left their fur and manes entirely matted, snarled, and raggedy. Trixie and Bulk were the only survivors. The Alicorn was wise enough to raise a protective barrier on top of the protection from the screen. The rest of the room did not fare so well. Rarity screamed. And Trixie smiled.