An Extended Holiday

by Commander_Pensword


Hearth Warming


Extended Holiday
Chp 25: Hearth Warming
Act 3


“Come on now.” Shawn called out from the hallway, he was wearing his red and gold coat, white dress shirt, red vest and his typical boots. “Breakfast is downstairs.”

“Why did we have to get up early again?” Taze groaned from his room.

“Because we have a ton of plans today it seems.” Shawn replied.

“Holidays are evil.” Taze sighed crawling out of his room, he was wearing a black and red tunic and black pants under the cloak Shawn had commissioned for him before. After so much time he admittedly felt naked going out without armor on or any of his weapons, well aside from the knife in his boot that no one had to know about.

“Come on.” Shawn said, pulling himself from his leaning position, as he turned around and started to walk towards the stairway.

“Fine lets go.” He said following Shawn to the lobby.

They found Pensword dressed in a more, cloth based uniform that was a mixture of the dark Green of the old Earth uniform with some Equestrian adornments. He was also wearing a crest over his barrel. The crest being of Equestria, his station as a Knight. He smiled as he pulled away from Moonshade as they saw them. She was dressed in an almost velvet dark purple shade with the adornments of a Lunar Guard. They both smiled and raised their wings, one feathered, one leathery as they motioned to the table they were sitting at.

“Remind me why we’re not allowed to be armed again?” Taze asked.

“Mayor Mare.” Moonshade muttered, She did not seem very happy as well. “So as to not to cause a problem or fear during the play itself.” She sighed and smiled a little. “Still, I got a nice gift from Luna,” She smiled. “I get to try my cooking out on the great Pensword.” She laughed a little.

“At least I’m not the only one who feels off.” Taze said. “But if something attacks while we’re there and I have to fight it off with a fork, there will be hell to pay.”

Pensword only smiled. “I am sure you can create something, I think they have folding chairs at the town hall.” He shook his head. “What do you want to try today Taze?” he asked as he looked down at one of the plates of food and smiled as he took a utensil and started to eat a little.

“I miss hashbrowns.” Taze said.

“I am sure we can find some potatoes for you to grow.” Pensword replied. “I mean Spike found some that I used a while back, still, at least eat something.” He sighed and smiled at Moonshade. “This tastes amazing.” It was here that Taze realized something, there was a bit of a space between the table they were sitting at, and the other patrons.

“What’s on the menu?” Taze raised an eyebrow noticing the division.

“How is it we have never used these menus before?” Shawn questioned quietly as he looked up slightly.

Moonshade smiled a little. “It isn’t on the menu. I made it myself.”

Pensword smiled a little. “Well, I have one thing to say, needs garlic.” He returned to eating the meal on the plate waiting for their responses.

Shawn simply shook his head with a smirk.

“What is it?” Taze asked.

Moonshade smiled and lowered her voice. “A Thestral delicacy, roasted Vampire fruit bats… We found that what normally is a pest to many farmers is actually rather fun to catch, it also keeps the population down, and prevent over crowding or destruction of trees. My only sad point is that I had to import some of these from the Lunar Valleys.”

“I’ll try some.” Taze said sitting down.

“I’ll stick with the fruit I bought.” Shawn said, pulling out an apple from his pocket. “Need to eat them before they go bad.”

Pensword only laughed a little and shook his head. “Well,” he asked as he saw Taze take a bite, “What do you think of Moonshades cooking?” He had given a little of his plate as it was not much to go by. “I find it rather nice… a little like the Pheasant I had once in Albuquerque. Only a little fruity.” He smirked at the pun he made.

“Tastes a bit like prairie chicken.” Taze said taking another bite.

“I might have to try that sometime.” Shawn commented as he took another bite of his apple.


The group had actually hung around the Tavern a little talking and sharing stories till about an hour till noon where they then began to head towards the town hall that stood in the middle of the town. As they approached the town hall they soon found themselves not only standing with the soldiers from Fort Necessity, but also with the Elements of Harmony as they were all arriving early to the show and to Taze’s irritation at Pensword, they were standing in a line, waiting for the doors to open.

“Great, and now we’re drawing attention to ourselves.” Taze sighed eyeing the soldiers around them.

“I think we would have drawn attention to ourselves even by arriving during the moving of the line.” he smiled at the guards in front of him. “At ease men, we aren’t on duty for the moment, so enjoy yourselves, at the moment I am just like you all, looking forward to the Hearth Warming Eve pageant.”

Shawn was silent as he usually was, looking forward with his hands behind his back. His eyes shifted every now and then, catching movement, but other than that he was pretty still.

“I just want to get in already.” Taze said. “I feel exposed out here.”

Moonshade only nodded her head. “That makes sense, just, oh look the doors are opening, we can move forward.” She smiled and looked to Pensword. “I hope there is enough seats to sit with you sir.” She blushed and shook her head. Was it Taze’s imagination or did he actually see a sign that his friend might have actually caught that hint of a crush?

With their size and Shawn being who he was the group was able to move ahead of the crowd reasonably fast. they were able to get the front row, or rather most of it. Though Shawn and Taze had to sit low, due to being way to tall compared to the rest of the crowd.

Also on the front row and mixed in with the three were the Elements of Harmony holders as well as Spike and the Mayor. The auditorium which was very much similar to where Nightmare Moon first appeared was abuzz with conversations, while Pensword it seemed was reading from the program they had been given and was whispering question into Moonshades ear. Taze caught a few of the questions, mainly from the viewpoint of first why it was a hour and a half play, what all were the scenes, as well as a little bit of giddy excitement to see a play in its complete form.

Finally after everyone was seated a young colt came onto the stage, wearing a old fashioned scribes outfit. He cleared his throat before looking to the audience. “Long ago before the peaceful rule of Celestia….”


As the play ended all the ponies stood and slowly began to sing joyfully and a few were off key as the hearts carol was sung. “The fire of friendship lives in our hearts,” They began, Taze and Shawn looked and found their friend fully engaged in singing with the rest of the crowd.

Taze sung half heartedly, loud enough to count but quiet enough not to stand out. “We are a circle of pony friends, A circle of friends we'll be to the very end.” The Crowd smiled as the curtain slowly shut after the cast gave a final bow and left to change. The ponies were now slowly starting to gather up their stuff and to head back out to the outside. As the group was at the front they were waiting to leave as well.

“Well that was educational.” Taze said as they left. “Now Pinkie, I need your bakery, there are important things I need to make for the morning!”

“Really? Some super secret human recipie for goodies?” Pinkie asked bouncing.

“Kinda…” Taze said. “Come on lets go.” And the two were off.

Pensword only smiled as somehow, in one moment, Pinkie Pie and Taze were there, and the next moment, the two had vanished. “Okay, Pinkie Pie can take others with her it seems.” He muttered and shook his head. He smiled as he shook his head. “Come on, Shawn, you got to have something planned? I personally am going to buy an ornament for a tree, family tradition always get an ornament every year.” he sighed and pursed his lips. “I, I think Christmas already came and went back home.. it is going to be confusing with the twelve months and thirty five day months.” He sighed, “Plus, with this being, Christmas and New Years is at the end of the week, it feels like it is  all wrapped into one.” He closed his eyes. “Most interesting I can say.” He pulled out a small calendar. He looked over it one more time. Hearth Warming Eve was the thirtieth, and New Years was the thirty fifth.

Shawn simply patted Pensword on the back. “I can deal with my plans later, I actually am up to getting a ornament for a tree. Keeping traditions alive and all.” He smiled lightly.

“Thank you, well, shall we get going? I think there was some ornaments at one of the shops or stalls outside that would support the town a little.”

“Sure, I’ll pay for it, so lets pick the best one.” Shawn chuckled. “Still have a bit over half a chest full.”

“Okay, okay.” he muttered as he shook his head as they were now moving towards the exits. He pushed away a thought about needing to save. This was not home where it seemed life loved to throw bills at him, here he actually had a surplus, mainly from the military logging camp, still Big Mac was happy to be paid for his information and remained a paid consultant. He himself was just a small time owner but the income was still nice. It was better than his part time job from home, still he missed working in the local Toy Store. He paused as he stepped outside and then smiled. “Well, this is interesting, it is still daylight out.”

Twilight only laughed. “That is so that if any Ponies wanted to, they can reach Canterlot by tonight for the big one in the capital, don’t worry, the Princesses already said you three would be seeing a local pageant this year, and will attend next year.” She pointed to another street. “Well, I see that the Quill and Sofa is open, I need a few new quills, so see you all later.” She started to walk towards the store.

As soon as she was out of earshot, Shawn chuckled. “I think she might like the gift I got her.”

Pensword only looked to Shawn but shook his head, “I shall pretend I did not hear that from you, I do not want to know anything thing else.”

“Spoilers.” Shawn said simply, shrugging.


It was several hours later and the punch bowl was roaring. The foals for the most part had been put to bed and now everyone was enjoying the remainder of the night. The ponies had some strange rituals this night. the unicorns had enchanted the logs to burn a bright red and each took a turn levitating a heart made of flames in front of the fireplace. the earth ponies all brought food of some sort and the pegasi would tell stories of past battles using bits of cloud to make illustrations. it was quite a sight to see though the thestrals seems a bit standoffish it seemed having not been part of the founding event.

Pensword, having been, well, not part of the founding and still feeling a little bit lost found that at the moment, the rest of the tavern was okay with him spending time with the Thestrals and just watching the festivities. He nodded a few times in greetings to the others and settled down. He smiled a little as he had plans already for when the seventh month arrives, on the fourth day. Still he just enjoyed listening to the festivities and just being a wallflower at the moment.

Taze had refrained from his usual storytelling, content simply to listen as the pegasi told their history. He marveled a bit at what the older pegasi could do with the cloud they had. He noted to experiment when he was a gryphon again.

Shawn had seemingly vanished, though he had left a note at the tavern for the group, mentioning something about a lot of work needing to be done, whatever he meant by that.

“Taze,” Pensword spoke slowly. “Some time, we need to have him stay for a party, he keeps on doing this, it worries me.” He paused and shook his head. “I’m sounding like my mother just then.” He sighed and smiled as he closed his eyes. “Family, it seems Taze that we are becoming our own family, I hope you do not mind that.”

“Honestly, I prefer it.” Taze said. “We have been through two wars, a time travel thing, nearly dieing, being frozen in stone.” He rambled off. “Honestly it’s better we think like that now then later.”

“True.” He blinked and laughed a little. “Imagine, “ he paused and looked down. “If things get any more entrenched you might think about adoption, to keep any titles or small land parcels out of other noble hooves.” he shook his head. “I’m doing it again, celebrations and I go off into a corner and start discussing history or politics or the history of politics.” he chuckled. “Then again that is what my dad and I loved to do at parties, find a group and sit down and just talk.”

“A party is supposed to be about relaxing and enjoying time with friends.” Taze noted. “If that’s how you relax, that’s how you relax. Look at Berry.” Taze pointed as Berry Punch downed her tenth mug of cider. “I don’t condone drinking stupidly myself but if it’s how she unwinds more power too her.”

“Very well, that does make sense.” He smiled a little and looked around. “So, what do you do at parties anyway?” He asked his brother in arms Taze.

“Usually I find a conversation and talk.” Taze noted. “Or a card game.” He looked around. “Actually strange to be at a party without anyone playing crib or canasta or something”

“Or a board game.” Pensword replied. “Hmm…. maybe you can create a card deck and see if, I wondering if there's any card games we can teach them later on.” Pensword chuckled. ‘Thankfully I do not remember poker or any gambling games.”

“Hey as long as there isn’t anything at stake nothing wrong with a game of blackjack.” Taze noted.

“That is going up to twenty one right?” he asked and nodded his head. “Makes sense.” he muttered with a grin. “I hope to enjoy tonight, so, you got gifts for everypony and one? No last minute shopping?”

“I had my gifts done the weekend after we got back.” Taze said. “And I got something for everyone.”

“Ah, well, that is good.” Pensword replied looking a little sheepish.

Moonshade only laughed. “He finished last night, then again, he has had to look over plans and details for the expedition.” She chuckled a little. “So, you looking forward to settling down into the Everfree and Lord Hammer Strike’s domain?”

“I’ve been doing some planning for once we get there, I have to talk to Celestia about getting the ponypower for a quarry, and possibly a mining company.” Taze noted.

“Suddenly I get images of so many RTS games.” Pensword muttered and shook his head. “Still, I hope she agrees, we do need stones to replace the ruined stones, and then there is the need for a treasury, I doubt we could supply it by any of our incomes.”

“You know you made Risk, I’ll bet with some investors you could get that mass produced.” Taze noted.

“Oh, I plan on it, with Twilight and Spike, in fact after New Years we may have the Changelings ready.” He had dropped his voice to say that to Taze. “Still need to fix up the Gryphon race rules and everything, also… I was able to have Twilight copy down all the rules for Axis and Allies.” he smirked. “Let’s just say that one is going to be just for close friend use.” He smiled a little wider. “Still, already Spike suggested a game for four players, three ponies, and one Windigo.” He shook his head. “As you can see, I have something worked out for retirement.”

“Good to hear, now all we need is investors for ideas.” Taze said.

“Well, rather not push forward too much, I want the complete finished project,” he whispered back as the two continued their conversation. “Also, I don’t want too many paws, claws, or hooves in the pie. Maybe Fancy but that is it.”

“Maybe, but I’ve been considering a few minor things we could do without ending the world that might make us a fair bit of money, for us and the treasury.” Taze said.

“Oh?” he looked around. “Moonshade, would you join us?” he asked as he looked around. “I think I see a both empty where we can continue the conversation.”

“Lead the way.” The Thestral motioned with her hoof.

The three soon were settled in the booth as they all looked at each other. “So,” Pensword started. “What is this idea you have?”

“Mechanical pencil for one.” Taze noted. “I imagine if your not a unicorn the pencil sharpener is rather annoying.”

“That, just not lead, go right for Graphite.” Pensword muttered as he looked around. “That could work, I think.” He laughed. “An Eraser that can endure getting wet? or something?”

“What idiot would use lead?” Taze asked. “Wait nevermind don’t answer that, no the Eraser would have to be a separate thing... Unless it had a removable metal cap… Yeah, that could work.”

It was at that moment that the doors to the Tavern opened, revealing Shawn with a bag over his shoulder, full it seemed as well. He simply walked in and closed the door behind him, gave the room a quick look over and headed up the stairs to drop off the bag.

“Should we follow? He almost reminded me of Santa for a moment.” He shook his head. “I to this day still think Santa  is a real being.”

“We might as well.” Taze noted. “But I don’t think Shawn is a ninja, his weapon of choice just doesn’t work with the whole thing.”

“Wait, Santa, as in Santa Claus, not a ninja, forget it.” he sighed and the three moved to follow him. “Anyway… I want to finish wrapping gifts and so, see you all later? I got gifts for you four to open tonight.”

“But?” Moonshade replied before Pensword smiled as he held up a wing.

“In some of the nations from Earth, they had a tradition for opening gifts on Eve and day. So, I modified it, I have one gift for you three tonight, the rest for the morning.”

“I should feed Sylvio.” Taze noted. “Then I want to get some more reading done before bed, I’ll see you guys later.”

“See ya.” Pensword replied as he moved to his room. “Come on Moonshade, like to help wrap the gifts?” He smiled as she nodded and the two went to work on the gifts.


Pensword blinked as he and Moonshade were walking towards the stairs as they heard the floor creaking from behind them, and as they looked out they saw Shawn walking down the hallways with yet another sack of items on his back. “Oh, Shawn, when you get a free moment, meet me downstairs, I got something for you.”

“Got it.” He called back as he entered his room, dropping the bag off.

He moved then to knock on Taze’s door and spoke through it. “Ready downstairs see you soon I hope.” he smiled and started down the hallway and down the stairs to see that it was mostly Berry Punch and a few other stragglers who were a little too unsteady on their hoofs to move at the moment. Pensword only smiled and sat down at one of the tables as Moonshade sat down next to him and they waited for their friends.

Moments later Shawn was walking down the steps, then he took a turn and joined them in one of the open seats around the area, specifically, one near the wall, in which he leaned back a little in.

Taze came down moments later. “What’s up Pensword?” he asked.

“Well, as you know, Matthew’s ancestry came from Europe, one of those countries was Sweden, and he took a tradition and modified it a little, and I thought that it might be fun. Opening one gift on the eve of present opening, here being Hearth Warming Eve.” he smiled and nodded to the sack on the table. “Well find your gift and open it.

Taze managed to find his after a moment and carefully unwrapped it with all the elegance of a rhinoceros charging an oncoming bus. He looked at the round wooden pendant surprise. ”Wow, you make this yourself Matthew?”

“The pendent, no, it was a little bit of extra stuff from Granny Smith, She made the carving, I just painted it.” He paused and blinked. “It feels weird thinking that name in this form… maybe you should call me that if you can. Remind me that I am still one and the same, just odd.”

“Captain America, hmm?” Shawn said with a hum, looking at the wooden pendant, it was essentially a medallion form of Captain America’s shield, colors included, from the rings to the star in the middle. Which was made to hang around the wearer’s neck by a satin cord. “Very well done.” He complimented as he studied it.

“Thank you, I, I just thought that.” he paused and smiled as he took from the saddlebag he had put on, and from it was a rather crudely wrapped gift, showing that whoever wrapped it was not very good at it. “Your gift Moonshade.”

She only blinked and took it up and tore open the gift and blinked. It was the same thing. She looked at Pensword with confusion and put it around her neck. She looked to Shawn. “Who is Captain America?”

“Well, To be honest, I was getting homesick and I saw that Granny Smith was polishing some stuff that Applebloom had carved while bored. I payed her for the carving and Granny refused payment for the polishing, but I painted them, and… it is a way to show a little bit of our station, leaders of the Everfree… and as a way to remember our past.”

“Captain America.” Shawn started. “Started off as a young man, thin and a bit weak but with a pure and honest heart. Wasn’t fully fit for the line of duty, but was offered an alternative, one that he took. He was injected with a serum that helped him, in many ways, he was stronger, faster even, and with that he became a symbol. A symbol of patriotism.” Shawn chuckled. “Equipped with a shield that couldn’t break.” He said, lifting the wooden shield into the light, letting its polished wood gleam. “And his wits, he was a soldier who could get things done.”

Pensword smiled. “A very good overview.” He smiled a little. “To me, he was a hero, a symbol of being there, to him he never leaves anyone behind, he is a friend and loyal to many folks. He is also a man who will believe in someone or a nation, even when they have gone dark or taken a path that is not straight and true.” He looked at the table. “That is also why I gave you all of these. Just as Captain America has his shield, I have my friends and this is a promise that I will in all the flaws I may have, I will not abandon a single one of you. No matter what might happen.”

Shawn gave a smile as he lifted it, only to stop and put it in one of his pockets, mumbling something about not wanting to get it damaged.

“It works both ways Matthew.” Taze said as he slipped it on.

“I actually am happy to hear that.” He paused and smiled softly. “You raise me up,” he sang a little before trailing off. “A song from my past.”

“Groban.” Taze nodded.

“Yep.” Pensword replied with a smile. “A wonderful song, with such meaning.”

“Well, I got two more chapters to finish on gryphon culture before bed, night guys and thanks Matthew, I’ll see you in the morning.” Taze said heading to the stairs.

“Good night.” Pensword replied as he looked around and picked up the sack and started to trot to his room. “I think I am going to call it an early night. Good night my friends.” He smiled a little as he walked up the stairs and left the lobby/eating area of the tavern.

Shawn looked at Moonshade. “Want to help me finish Pensword’s gift?”

Moonshade only smiled at the invite. “Oh, I would love to help, That sounds mysterious and fun.”

Shawn stood up, stretching a little as he gave his back a pop. “Alright then.” He said rolling his shoulders. “Follow me then.”

Moonshade got up and followed Shawn back up to his room, which she noticed had been layered with cotton bales somehow. “Oh nice, mask the sound of you working?” She asked.

“Got to muffle the sound somehow.” Shawn chuckled. “I finished off the base work, and now it just needs the little touches.” Shawn said, pointing to a drawing on one of his tables.

She raised an eyebrow and looked at Shawn. “Impressive.”

“And here.” He said, unwrapping one of the bundles he had about. With a soft clank he put it onto the table next to her, in alignment with the drawing. “Is the almost finished piece. I just need some help with the steady work and small detail while I polish the thing out and make sure it is ready for the morning.”

She widened her eyes and looked to Shawn. “Well, why not, I get, this looks like something that Hammer Strike would make in legends.” She chuckled and gave a wink to Shawn before following his instructions on how to hold the piece of work.

“It took awhile to make sure the scaling was right, didn’t want to make it too big, too heavy, too light, too small, had to be near perfect.” He said, pointing to several parts.

“Near perfect?” Moonshade asked as she continued to help.

“Perfection is impossible, for you can not please all, nor can you remove every flaw.” Shawn said. “For a perfect world to exist, everything and everyone must be the same, exact, thing, no differences, no change. A bland lifestyle.” He summarized.

“Indeed, so for a perfect world that is fun, there must be imperfection.” She smiled, “by not making it perfect, it is perfect.” She smiled a little and nodded her head. “Wow, you humans seem to be gatherings of all sorts of tidbits.”

“Find me on a good day and I can go off on details on simple constructs to quantum mechanics.” Shawn chuckled, putting the item down.

“I have no clue what those are, they sound like something Twilight would know… that last part I mean.” She chuckled a little and turned her head. “Well, I, I better return to my post. Good Night Lord Shawn.” She replied with a small salute with her wing.

Shawn chuckled, raising his hand in his typical three finger salute, though this time he had his thumb bent inward, his first two fingers together as he placed them to his temple, before throwing his fingers out. “Good night, I shall see you, and the others, in the morning. Do come by at around six thirty to seven thirty, I got an idea for a nice surprise.” He said with a smirk.

“Very well, I shall be there,” She replied with a chuckle.


“Morning.” Taze yawned as he sat up in bed, a sappy sticky tongue lapping his face repeatedly. “You know Sylvio it takes twenty minutes to wash your drool off my face right?” he said staring as the quickly growing pup.

Sylvio barked at him before hopping to the ground. With a roll of his eye’s Taze got to his feet and headed to the water basin. The smell of breakfast moved through the air. When he finally got his face clean he got himself dressed and left the room heading down stairs. The pup at his heel.

In the hallway Taze found an odd sight. Pensword had a book in front of him with a diagram and he was doing wing ups in the hallway as he was working to keep in shape. He looked up and smiled. “Morning.” he replied as Taze heard the growl of his stomach, and Pensword’s. “Just working up an appetite, reminds me of PT back home, workout, hit AV for all you can eat breakfast then home to shower and then to school again for classes and lunch.” he smiled a little as he seemed to finish and after closing the book he turned around. “Okay, ready for breakfast?”

Sylvo answered for him with an affirmative bark.

“Right.” he sighed and looked to Taze. “My troops will not let Rommel leave still, seems that we have the mascot for a unit, and they like him, and he them.” He sighed and sighed again. “I guess I wasn’t ready for a pet yet. Still, at least something good came from this. Maybe another time I can get Rommel back, or another pet from Fluttershy.” He shook his head. “Before you ask, how can I say give me back my pet when I am actually seeing Rommel as a good influence for responsibilities and duties. Reminds me of learning about Texas A and M and their Cadet General, who happens to be a canine mascot of the school, and…” he laughed as he started down the stairs. “Maybe some other time.”

“I wasn’t going to say that.” Taze noted. “Why do you think I keep Sylvio close to home? My guards already are trying to call themselves wild dogs, last thing they need is a wolf for a mascot.” Taze laughed.

Sylvio ran to the door as it opened greeting Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash.

Fluttershy only smiled and pulled from a saddlebag a hardwood stick. “Here you are boy, a nice strong stick.” She smiled and patted the timberwolf softly as the canine took the stick and began to gnaw on it. She smiled as she looked to Rainbow Dash. “See, I told you he is a big puppy dog.”

“Considering he’s less than half his full grown size that statement couldn’t be more true.” Taze noted. “Hey guys.”

“Okay, I still am never gonna get used to having a timberwolf in Ponyville.” Rainbow Dash said as they approached.

“Are you sure it’s safe?” A third voice noted from outside the door.

“Come on squirt he won’t hurt ya.” Rainbow Dash said with a hoof wave. Scootaloo enter slowly.

Pensword looked at the Timberwolf. “I am sure if he tried anything Taze would be there to stop it.” He shook his head. “Humans have out right tamed the wild animals, wild cats became house cats, wolves became dogs and what is called Man’s best friend. I assure you, Taze will handle anything that might come.”

The pup looked up from his stick at scootaloo, he approached her slowly and sniffed her a few times, with a bark he licked her.

“Ew it’s sticky, like… Tree sap? Seriously tree sap agian?” Scootaloo said.

Taze chuckled “Berry has a basin in the back.” he said.

As Scootaloo left their was another knock on the door and from the door as Taze opened it again came in Applejack, Applebloom, Derpy, and Dinky. Needless to say within seconds Dinky and Applebloom were also racing to the back covered in tree sap.

Derpy only laughed and shook her head. “I was wondering if anything would happen. Don’t worry, Applebloom is starting to carry some heavy duty soaps to clean out tree sap from fur.” She smiled at Taze. “Good morning, I see you are well.”

“I know I got the perfect gift for you Derpy.” Taze noted. “Something tells me you’ll love it.”

“OH?” She gasped. “Well, I am sure it will be, now, I better go make sure that those three inside don’t flood the back.”

“Oh, quickly where is the Doctor?” Taze asked.

“Somewhere, he said he had to step out, and with that Tardis like she is, he might be late. We never arrive when or where we want to, but only where and when he is needed to be.” She smiled a little. “She told me that herself.”

“Sounds like a story for another time, you better go help them though.” Taze said.

“Well, I guess fashionably late is us this time darling.” Rarity looked to Twilight as they entered the room followed by Sweetie Belle who left again quickly covered in tree sap. “Why is it always the tree sap?” Sweetie could be heard saying in an exasperated tone as she left to join her friends at the basin.

Twilight only smiled as she looked to Taze. “So, just to let you know, Applejack is with Big Mac as they are unloading the cart, we all decided to gather the gifts last night and she and Big Mac brought them over this morning.”

“Say no more, I’m going to go help.” Taze said getting up and leaving to help them. A few moments later the two ponies and Taze entered loaded with gifts.

“Well, thank you kindly.” Applejack replied with a nod of her head. “That sure saved a few trips all in one go and I thought we would have to make two trips.” She paused and looked to Big Mac. “Who’s cooking? I thought Berry would still be sleeping.”

Pensword blinked and looked up. “I thought she was, she was when I got up for exercise this morning.”

“Well if Pinkie did what she Pinkie Promised she should have gotten here early to heat something up for me.” Taze noted. “And Pinkie never breaks a Pinkie Promise.” Everyone in the room shuddered.

“Well, duh, of course I never break a Pinkie promise.” Pinkie Pie looked in from the kitchen. “Everything wIll be ready soon.”

“Oh, that must be Pinkie that cooked.” Pensword replied as he settled into a chair. Before blinking. “For some reason I felt like Moonshade giggled at me for some reason. Is it bad I am imagining this?”

“Maybe because you’re right.” A familiar voice chuckled from behind.

Pensword spun around at hearing the voice and he wondered in worry if she was giggling at him, he moved so fast he actually fell off his chair and blinked to clear his vision to see who was behind him.

“Who’s down there?” A familiar voice half shouted. “Pinchy if your cooking without supervision again we’re gonna have a long….talk?” Berry Punch got to the bottom of the stairs with a confused look. Something dawned on her quickly. “I woke up late didn’t I?” she asked.

Twilight only blinked and looked at Berry. “Well, yes, but don’t worry Pinkie Pie is cooking breakfast.” Twilight only smiled and laughed. “So, I guess she is giving you a Hearths Warming gift by cooking for you and giving you a day off maybe?” She was trying to guess why Pinkie was really here, she felt it was more than just helping Taze.

Instead of the four expected fillies, five entered the room from the back. “Good morning mamma.” Berry Pinch smiled happily. “Isn’t this great now we got a big bunch of ponies to spend Hearths Warming with!” The filly beamed at her mother.

“So…” Taze decided to break the silence after a few minutes. “Applejack where’s Granny? Cold bothering her arthritis?” He asked.

Applejack nodded her head. “Yeah, don’t worry we got the stoves running and she was going to cook dinner, that reminds me, y’all are invited to Sweet Apple Acres for dinner,” She smiled a little bigger. “That includes you two as well.” She paused and looked as she froze. “Jumping horse flies… CHANG…” She found her mouth shut with magic.

“Yes AJ,” Twilight replied. “Changelings who happen to be loyal to the humans and hopefully all six of us… They,” She waved a hoof around. “Did something and they are on our side.”

AJ only blinked before nodded her head. “Sorry fellas,” She smiled. “If you two will be like other ponies, I don’t see why Granny wouldn’t say no to you two tagging along as well.”

“So where is Shawn?” Taze asked Moonshade.

“Can’t say.” She replied, She did grin and chuckle as she finally helped Pensword up. “Also, you still seem to be good and bad at finding clues.” She blinked as Pensword only smirked and winked to her. She blinked and then smacked him in the face as Shawn walked out carrying a tray of foods.

“I love surprises, to the point I play along with them.” Pensword replied as the others reacted to seeing Shawn coming out of the kitchen.

Most of the six just stared and blinked as they began to laugh a little. “Well,” Spike replied as he rushed in. “Oh, sorry I was late, I had to pull my gift I hide for Twilight.” He blinked and paused. “What’s so funny?”

“Because Shawn was hiding in the kitchen. Nice place,” Rainbow Dash replied. “Did you help Pinkie Pie or something?”

“So Shawn…. What’s with the...” Taze motioned with his finger “Trays?”

“One.” He nodded his head at Rainbow Dash. “Reverse that. Two.” He nodded at Taze. “It’s breakfast, and I made sure we have a ton of variety.” He said lowering one arm to reveal an assortment of different foods, and breakfast items.

“Pinkie bringing that pot out?” Taze asked

Pinkie promptly left the kitchen carrying a large pot that was simmering. “Right here just like I promised.” She said.

With a smile Taze got up. “Can I have the wooden spoon?” He asked and the pink pony passed him one. “Okay everypony this is a little something from the land of my forefathers. a little ritual i am sure the esteemed apple family will appreciate.” Taze explained. “It’s called ‘Custya’ in the ukrainian tongue, and is essentially a porridge made of wheat, barley honey and several other ingredients, at this time of year every year we make a big batch of this and then we take a spoonful.” Taze said doing so. “And we fling it too the roof.” He did so to the shocked gasp of most of the ponies present. “And we watch to see if it sticks” they waited a moment, then two, after five minutes Taze smiled. “And it stuck, that means this year will be a bountiful harvest” he said. “And now everybody well get a bowl, it’s not for everypony but I would appreciate if you would try it.” Taze noted as he dished some out to everyone before sitting back in his spot. “And now we can eat” he said.

Two minutes later as they ate. The spoonfull of Custya fell down, landing right on top of Pensword’s head. He paused and looked up and didn’t see anything so he returned back to eating his own bowl of Custya… before paused and put a hoof to his head and pulled it back and blinked. “Well, It fell down, and in my mane, just thought you wanted to know.” he spoke up to Taze.

“It’s goodluck.” Taze shrugged as he continued eating. “The only other tradition was filling the room with hay.”

Pinkie blinked and looked around before five voiced yelled the same thing. “No Pinkie.”

“Aww, but that sounds like a fun tradition, why would you fill the room of hay?” She asked Taze. She was somehow remaining still thank goodness while she ate the food that Taze and Shawn and she made. Well she made for Taze as proxy.

“It’s more based on an old religious belief,” Taze noted. “A certain important person was born in manger surrounded by hay and barn animals, in the ukraine houses are filled with hay and the animals eat with the people on this night.” Taze explained.

“That sounds like fun.” Pinkie Pie replied with a laugh and smile as she bounced to another place to get more food.

The sounds of merriment and eating filled the tavern and Pensword smiled a little about that tradition. “Kind of interesting…” he trailed off and returned to eating in silence. This time it seemed he was just thinking.

Breakfast went by quickly enough for every pony, human, and dragon present. Naturally the first done were the youngest who were very instant for the older ones to hurry up, except for Spike who was expecting books as usual.

Soon they were all gathered around the cleared space and the pile of presents. “So,” Pensword spoke looking at the collection of gifts. “What happens next?”

“Youngest first.” Shawn said aloud.

The children cheered and no one else really had the heart to deny the suggestion.

“So then first gift goes to Sylvio?” Taze joked eyeing the fillies reaction.

They blinked, before they smiled. “Oh wow… you can give gifts to your pets?” It seemed that this novelty was enough to stem the most expected reaction. “Why not? We should do that.” Scoots replied with a competitive gleam in her eye.

Taze laughed. “I was only joking.” He said pulling out a long rod of deep purple wood with a ribbon on it. “But I did get him one anyway so that works.” He handed it to the pup who happily grabbed it and bit into it. There was an interesting look in the pups face as the wood seemed a lot harder to chew. The pup grabbed the rod and ran off with it. “Well, that happened.” Taze noted. “So who’s the youngest of you five?” Taze asked.

The five fillies looked at each other and then at Taze. “Why not do it left to right?” Sweetie Belle asked, “We are about the same ages and we rather not go by month.” She smiled as the others nodded their heads.

“Well.” Taze said pulling out a large flat wrapped object it made a metallic clang as he set it down. “Then you four can unwrap this left to right.” He said to the crusaders.

It unwrapped to reveal a large tower shield of polished bronze, engraved and emblazoned on the front was the crusaders crest in bright paint. “This took me and Storm Hammer a bit, neither of us is a great painter.” Taze explained.

The four Crusaders just blinked and stared at the large item, it was almost as large as Applebloom, or Scoots. They blinked and looked up at Taze. “That…. Oh wow… we have one of those… decorations?”

Applejack just blinked and looked at the tower shield and then turned to Taze. “You are going to help them hang it on the wall, no way will I let any of them try touching that giant without some adult being right there with them.”

“Don’t worry, I will.” Taze nodded. He turned to Berry Pinch.

“Unfortunately I didn’t get you something quite as…. Large but I think you should have fun with this.” Taze handed her, her gift. She unwrapped it revealing  a small and elegantly painted wooden egg like object with Princess Celestia carefully painted on it. “Open it.” Taze encouraged her as she noticed it came apart in the middle. When she did, inside the Celestia stood another doll shaped like Princess Luna, this one too came apart revealing Princess Cadence, then Twilight and at the core of that one was Spike. “These are called nesting dolls” he explained. “I know there not all that incredible, but I noticed you seem to appreciate the smaller thing.”

Berry Pinch grinned as she pulled out each doll and set them up in a line. “Thank you.” she said.

Taze moved to Spike. “And don’t think I forgot you.” Taze said Spike sighed.

“Yeah, yeah, give me the book.” Spike sighed disinterested.

“Oh, sorry I didn’t get you a book, however I did manage to get this.” Taze said passing him a small wrapped box. Opening it revealed a silver medal about twice the size of a bit with the words “#1 assistant” engraved on it. Spike looked at it with fear as the other ponies got up to stop Spike from taking it. Taze waved them off with a hand as he took the medal and placed it around Spikes neck.

“No don’t, I don’t want to feel…” Spike winced as it touched his scales, he blinked after a minute of feeling nothing “I don’t feel anything.” Spike noted.

“Starswirl told me in the past that silver was worthless to dragons, it doesn’t affect their greed at all.” he smiled.

“I… Thanks.” Spike smiled as Taze backed off signaling the next in line.

Shawn looked to the group of kids before him before looking to the others. “Should I give them the gifts from me next?”

Pensword only smiled. “Well, I would say so, I think they might like yours better than mine, so go on ahead.”

Shawn only shrugged in response before reaching into one of the bags he had behind him, pulling out a couple boxed of varied sizes, putting them in front of each of them, Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, Dinky, Scootaloo, Berry Pinch, and Spike.

Applebloom opened hers first to reveal a tool set, simple, and wasn’t too big.

“I noticed that you seemed to have slight problems with the tools that you were using before, figured a set that is useable to you would be nice.” Shawn said with a side comment.

Applebloom only smiled and looked at the sets and looked up. “Ah can fix the leak now in the clubhouse, these are perfect for me.” She smiled. “Thank you.”

Scootaloo opened hers afterwards, revealing a box for a new scooter.

“Oh wow! My old one was starting to get a little broken down, and this looks like it can go way faster!” Scootaloo smiled. “Thanks!”

Up next was Sweetie Belle, her gift was a microphone.

Which was led to an impromptu rendition of one of the school songs she had learned. All would later say that it was rather pleasing to the ears.

Next up, was Dinky, whose gift was opened to reveal a necklace, a circle, and in the center was a hourglass inside a bubble imprinted onto it.

She only smiled and quickly put the necklace around her neck and smiled as she moved and hugged Shawn’s leg.

Berry Pinch opened her gift next to show off a small fruit press, meant to make juices and drinks… Of the non alcoholic sort.

“This looks just like mama's.” Berry smiled. “Thank you so much.”

Last but not least, was Spike, who opened his gift to reveal a decent sized radiant green gem.

“Where did you get this?” Spike asked. “This emerald looks amazing.”

Shawn chuckled. “As it turns out.” He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a blue crystal. “I don’t clean out my pockets often, and I forgot about the gems I used for testing stuff in the Crystal Empire.”

“Thanks.” Spike said licking his lips.

Pensword only laughed a little as he then indicated his gift it was a rather interesting rectangle tall item. It was addressed to the entire CMC, and their was a small gift for Berry Pinch. Inside Berries after she ripped the wrapping paper off of it. Was some stories he had written down in Equestrian that he had been telling the foals. “Thought it might be nice to have some of the stories written down.” He muttered to Berry Pinch, “I kept seeing you listening even as you helped your mom about.”

Berry beamed at him. “Thank you.” she smiled holding the book close.

The CMC only smiled and as Berry Pinch looked over the table of contents the quad only attacked the wrapping paper and found inside a box was a popsicle stick representation of a tower. There was a scroll tucked into the upper structure where one might stand if it was large enough to hold a pony.

Sweetie Belle only smiled and read it with the others reading over her shoulder. They all looked up at Pensword as he spoke one word. “Surprise.”

“What is it?” Scootaloo asked.

Pensword only smiled. “Well, we kind of need to be testing construction a little, and we do want the pathway defended.” He smiled and pointed to the structure. “Applebloom drew the idea on the paper, and that is going to be the model of the test structure that your Granny said we could try building on Sweet Apple Acres, and once the final design is finished, we are going to turn over the structure for some.. CMC Storage tower or something, just as a gift… so, a model of a future gift.”

“Wow!” Sweetie Belle said. “Our own guard tower!” she smiled as the four group hugged Matthew.

Over the next few minutes the rest of the older ponies in the room presented their gifts to the younger ones. With possibly the exception of a encyclopedia each from Twilight, the gifts were received graciously. The kids were allowed to play as the adults moved to exchange their gifts with each other.

Taze handed Rainbow a small wrapped box. “Here took me using a few name drops but I think you’ll enjoy this, it belonged to fleetfoot I think.” Taze noted as the package opened to reveal a medallion the the shape of an all too familiar insignia.

“Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh!” Rainbow practically sang.

Pensword blinked and looked to Shawn and seemed to hopefully convey that they should give Rainbow Dash their gifts, it was Pensword who gave the next gift to Rainbow Dash. “Here, might be fun.” he muttered.

Rainbow Dash blinked and opened it and looked up. “But I already have a saddlebag.”

Pensword only blinked. “Surplus emergency gear saddlebag Wonderbolt Division. Outdated but still usable, and guaranteed to stand up to some nasty weather.”

“An official Wonderbolts saddle bag?” she asked almost drooling as she examined it.

“Should I let her calm down before I give her this?” Shawn joked, looking at Pensword as he held up an envelope.

“Please do.” Pensword muttered. “I do not know what would happen if she overloaded her own mind.” He shivered at the thought.

“Tempted to test that.” Shawn said, moving the envelope quick enough to dodge Dash, who had lunged for it. Yet, she was able to turn on a dime almost and snatched it out of his hands and sat down with the envelope. She then opened the envelop and promptly fainted.

Applejack only blinked. “Land's Sake Shawn, what was in that envelope anyway?” She looked and poked Rainbow Dash softly.

“Just a set of tickets.” Shawn slowly smirked. “Some, good tickets.”

“Wait doesn’t being a lord mean you can get access to the special viewing areas for races and stuff?” Taze asked.

Shawn only leaned back in his seat, a grin on his face.

Pensword blinked and laughed. “Well, that would explain it.” He shook his head. “I was tempted getting her a history of the Wonderbolts book or something.” He laughed. “I think she enjoyed the saddlebags a lot more.”

“I think you broke Dashie.” Pinkie said poking the cyan pegasus’s unconscious form.

“She’ll get up eventually.” Shawn said. “We’ll get back to her when she’s awake.” Shawn chuckled.

Berry Punch blinked and raised a hoof. “Uh, I, I need to be getting some paperwork down, and, well, may I go next? You all are welcome to stay and chat as well even when I am taking care of tasks.”

“I think that sounds alright.” Shawn shrugged, pulling out a wrapped box from his bag, and giving it to her. Upon unwrapping it, it revealed to be a aged bottle of wine, named ‘Ocean Sunset

Berry blinked and looked at the bottle and back at Shawn. “This is a year nine hundred twenty, I do not know if you know this, but that was a good vintage, and, just wow. Thank you.”

“Well now I feel silly.” Taze said pulling out a separate bottle. ‘Moonlights Kiss’  “I thought I was going to be the original one.” He laughed.

To Taze’s surprise Berry only smiled bigger. “Oh… that is one of the new wines, brewed in celebration for Luna’s return, in fact that, oh my I heard that it has a very unique taste and… I get my own bottle.” She smiled a little as she picked up the bottle with care.

Berry Pinch only smiled. “Mommy knows her, drinks.” She finished with a pause. “She takes good care of what she says is the good stuff.” She smiled as her mother only nodded her head.

It was Pensword only who was laughing. “I guess I got something unique.” he presented a box which was opened and inside it was a rough wooden disk with the bark still on it, with a hole drilled in the middle with twine roped through the middle. “Something to play with during the slow days or something.”

“How does it work?” She asked with a raised eyebrow.

“I’ll teach you after you finish your paperwork, I rather you get that done because it can become a little addictive to play with.” He chuckled softly.

The doctor walked into the room slowly. “Sorry about that I had a bit of a conundrum on beetlgeise… Wait shouldn’t you three be gone by now?” The doctor asked the three humans.

Shawn simply looked to the clock, then slowly looked back to the group. “Yeah…” He paused, looking again. “My train leaves in about… ten minutes.”

“Will you look at that, I got a few more gifts I need to get across town.” Taze said noticing the time.

Moonshade blinked and shook her head. “I got to get Pensword here to actually sign a few documents.” She sighed and closed her eyes. “Canterlot waited to the last second.” She looked to Pensword. “Sorry sir.”

Pensword just blinked. “Err… might we stay and see the rest of our gifts, well Shawn first, then Taze, then I be opened and then you can open your gifts to each other?”

Shawn only shrugged in response. “Your choice, could wait until we’re to…” He paused. “No I won’t be back until later in the afternoon... Might have to delay.” He groaned putting a hand on his head. “You choose, and if possible, quickly.” He said, looking to the clock again.

“Okay, here.” Taze grabbed each ponies gift and put it in there hooves. “AJ there is a new apple cart in the shed out back, I was going to do something clever but I don’t have the time. Put anything for me in my room, later.” Taze said grabbing a sack of items and heading out the door.

Shawn groaned as he stood up, stretching. “Sadly, we seem to still have tasks to do.” He grabbed the bags he had and put them in the center of the group. “I wrapped and labeled them, thankfully I actually remembered to do it in Equestrian, imagine if I hadn't?” He chuckled. “If anything was left for me, just place it in my room upstairs at the left of the door, I thankfully left that spot clear.” He said.

Pensword sighed and shook his head. “I would like to stay, but I rather have to sign a paper and be done, then wait and find it to be a stack of fifty paper type stack. Ditto on the instructions, hope you like them.”

Shawn grabbed a hold of his coat and put it on. He then reached inside and pulled out an envelope and handed it to Rarity. “Message, for a reason.” He said with a nod before bidding everyone farewell. “I’ll be back by late afternoon, but be warned, might take you a minute.” He said with a smirk as he did a small bow, leaving them.

Pensword left next looking disappointed in not getting to see the reactions of the ponies faces on opening the gifts but he was sure they would get a second change later in the day. He shook his head. “Get this over with, and I am writing a rather angry letter to Canterlot for the delay.”


“Gonna need to make time.” Taze said now a few blocks down from the tavern and his friends. “Lets see if Luna’s project worked.” He smiled taking out a gold bracelet with a large black stone set into it and slipping it on his wrist. He gave the stone a gentle turn clockwise and instantly felt the magic stored inside it flare. A familiar sensation overtook his form only it was noticeably less stressful then he remembered. After a moment he opened the eye’s he didn’t realise he had shut and was greeted by the familiar sensation of his eye’s adjusting to his new vision. he crossed his eye’s to center on his beak for a moment and laughed “Oh yeah! Henshin a go go baby” he shouted before grabbing the sack and taking off.

The gryphon laughed all the way as he made it to his first stop. Landing in the back yard he made his way to the door slowly and gave it a knock.

“One moment,” A grown up female voice called out as the door opened and their blinking in surprised was Button’s mom. She blinked again and almost was about drop into a charging stance when Grif started to wave a free paw around.

“Hello ma'am, you probably don’t recognise me but we met at the train station after the royal wedding.” Grif explained. “I brought a gift for button and I was wondering if you could see that he gets it?” he reached into his sack and brought out a wrapped package.

From behind Button’s mom the small colt raced outside. “A gift?” He asked in joy. “Oh, can I? Can I?” he asked to his mother bouncing up and down a little with a smile.

Button’s mom just blinked and tilted her head and an ear flicked before she smiled. “Oh, you are that gamer human that helped us get on the train home.” She smiled a little. “Thank you, but, why are you a Griffin?”

“Would you believe it if I told you I got turned into a griffon to go help a recently appearing lost civilization and ended up getting sent back in time, injured in a horrible battle and then trapped in stone for a thousand years?” Grif asked.

Needless to say Button Mash just stared wide eyed and his mother only laughed and shook her head unsure of what to believe. “Oh, button, you can open the present he got you now.” She smiled a little and nodded her head in thanks.

“Neato, This is so awesome, and maybe sometime later you and I can go to the Ponyville Arcade and play some more, tomorrow good for you? School is still out.” He smiled as he tooked the present and started to open it.

Inside was a copy of Pipewrench two, still in the packaging and completely unopened.

“Ho… Woah, that is… Wow.” He squeaked and smiled with wide eyes… “This is…”

Button’s mom only nodded. “Original in the packaging unopened, I know you have another copy but I think that will be good to keep safe,” She turned to face the Griffon. “Thank you for the gift, as you can see my son really is liking the gift.”

 “Gotta juice.” Grif said taking off.


Pensword sat down in front of the temporary wooden desk inside an incomplete office that was attached to the unfinished officer barracks. He blinked and sighed. “I made a good call.” There was a four inch tall stack of parchments for him to go through. “Moonshade, may I have some Lunar Tea?” he asked as he sat down and started to read the first sheet. He was happy
for being able to read fluent Equestrian by now. There would still be a few words to trip him up, but then again. It seemed after Princess Luna, the documents were easier to understand. Still what followed was just two hours of either reading, a quick signature, or him asking Moonshade or another soldier who had stopped by what something meant.

He looked up and found himself staring at another cadet who had stopped by with news of Pensword being on site. “Yes, even heroes have to fill out paperwork, especially if I am to authorize the new training equipment for Lord Hammer Strike.” He chuckled as the other pony chuckled a little. After a few moment of silence the cadet left with a smile on his muzzle. He paused. “Moonshade. Has any of the search parties found the head of one of the dummies yet? They are asking for where it might be.”

“No,” Moonshade replied from the front office, the door not even open as there was no door even installed yet. “Just check the box of legendary strength. That is for Dragons, the Princesses, and now… once Luna finishes her paperwork, Lord Shawn.”

“Okay, Thanks.” Pensword muttered back, and returned to routine of another two hours. He paused as he rubbed his eyes as he flipped the last page and blinked. “I got a note, says to say when I am finished.”

Moonshade carefully pushed a box towards him with her hoof as she walked through the door. “Thought this might cheer you up a little with all the paperwork you had to do.”

Pensword only blinked before he opened the box to reveal a large tome like book bound in scarlet hide with gold lettering. Emblazoned on the cover and covered in silver was a familiar mark. “A Disembaugation of a Hero, Commander Pensword the Fierce.” The silver script was in a elegant style that seemed to give the tome a welcoming and yet foreboding glow.

“I know what my next few nights are going to be doing.” Pensword muttered. He paused and looked at Moonshade. “Were there any tales of my, “exploits you liked?” he smiled a little.

“Your wedding.” moonshade smiled. “It was said to be one of the top most beautiful events of all time.” She smiled but it held a kind of sad look to it. “I should go check on the fort.” she said turning and trotting off.

Pensword quickly put the book back into the box and into his saddlebag. “Wait, you, may I accompany you?” he asked and smiled a little as he was able to catch up to her. “Well, uh, if you must know, I didn’t get married back in the Crystal Empire, and… if we get shipped anywhere else, I am going to get a third in command, I feel terrible that we had an adventure and you didn’t get to see the empire in its height.”

“Thank you sir.” she smiled. “What was it like?” she asked.

“Well, let’s start with the start, with that shadow figure Sombra.” He began unknowingly gathering a crowd as they realized they were going to hear a story from Pensword’s own perspective.


Shawn sighed as he finally heard the train coming to a stop. He stood up from his seat, waiting for the group on ponies ahead of him on the train to leave so he could get out himself.

Upon exit he gave the station a quick look over before shaking his head and starting his walk towards the Castle.

Suddenly a familiar white unicorn in gold armor was at his side, he was familiar cause as a palace guard he looked like every other palace guard.

Shawn gave a hum in question and a raised brow as he looked to the guard, who was keeping pace with him.

The guard looked at him and nodded briefly before turning back to facing forward.

“Any reason for the sudden pop up?” Shawn questioned.

“Princess’s orders are that all nobles from outside Canterlot receive a personal escort to the castle.” The guard said.

“That is correct.” Suddenly from the crowd an identical guard appeared at his other side.

“Wonderful.” Shawn said with a sigh. “Is there a true need for this? I doubt much would happen.” He questioned.

“Orders are orders sir.” The guard on his right said.

“Lovely.” Shawn mumbled. “Any other bits of info I should know about?

“Prince Blueblood is on a warpath sir.” The guard on his left said.

“That sounds wonderful.” Shawn said sarcastically. “How bad is it going so far?”

“He’s ordered seventeen death sentences this morning alone.” The guard on his right said. “We’re running out of wigs for the servants.”

“Moments like this make me wonder.” Shawn sighed. “Anything else? Rumours, facts, I’m up to hearing about anything.”

“Are the rumors true sir? You are Lord Hammer Strike?” The guard on his left asked.

“Oooh, rumors on myself hmm?” Shawn chuckled.

“Some have said you are being assigned to guard Twilight Sparkle in Ponyville with your super equine strength.” The guard on his left said.

Shawn laughed a bit louder. “It was only three training dummy’s!” He chuckled a bit more. “No, no, I’m not guarding her.”

“And did you really punch the grim pony in the face tell he let the three of you go?” Another guard asked.

“I’ll have you know…” Shawn paused. “Not really sure myself, but I do have a feeling he doesn’t like me, I mean, I apparently avoided death a couple times.”

“Do you really use Manticore venom to flavor your coffee?” The right guard asked.

“Don’t like coffee.” Shawn shrugged. “Might have to check that out though.” He said with a dark smile. “Sounds like it would have a nice kick to it.”

Further questioning was stopped as they entered the palace grounds.

“Now…” He turned towards one of the guards. “Mind leading me to Celestia? Been awhile since I’ve truly traveled around here.”

The walk through the ground and palace halls was quiet as guards, servants, and nobles just stared, some in fear, some in jealousy, but mostly in respect. The schneichel approached them carefully as they made their way to the throne room doors. “Hello my lord, are you here to see the Princess in court? Petition her? Or for an audience?”

“I come by request, it appears something has popped up and required my attention.” Shawn replied.

“Very well my lord, please wait while I announce you.” The schenkel bowed before entering the room.

He turned back and chuckled. “Wait here you two, I might be able to answer one question that you missed.”

After a minute he entered and with a nod he stopped in front of Celestia. “So, onto business first or shall we partake in small talk?”

Celestia laughed at this. “It has been eons since anyone has greeted me so casually.”

“If you wanted me gone, I’m pretty sure I would be by now.” Shawn said with a shrug. “So how’s it going?”

“It has been relatively well considering we just had a war, after a royal wedding, after an ancient empire, appearing out of nowhere.” Celestia said.

“Yeah.” Shawn chuckled. “Things have been eventful the past couple months.” He sighed. “Very, eventful.”

“How have things been?” Celestia asked. “Luna mentioned you were having some… Troubles.”

“Troubles I’ve had for a long time, so nothing new really.” He shrugged. “Other than that, not much has gone on, learned some rumors.” He chuckled. “You would think the guards wouldn’t really react to the training dummy’s.”

“How goes the search for the head by the way?” Celestia asked.

“I think it’s just gone, don’t ask, ‘cause we never found the darn thing.” He chuckled. “I swear, the thing must be in orbit or something, and I don’t even know how that could have happened!” He laughed a little. “Ordered special ones, as a just in case.”

“I hope nopony gets hurt when it falls.” Celestia noted. “So you didn’t come here for small talk.”

“You’d be surprised.” Shawn shrugged. “I wouldn’t mind doing that. But sadly, yeah.” He rolled his shoulders. “On to business. So, supplies, and something about an item from Luna?” He sighed. “Alright, lets get to work.”


“Well,” Pensword spoke as he slowly wrapped up the story. His ears flicking back to the crowd he knew was behind him. “I have to say that the happiest I was that day, was when I saw Alto and Bellacosa embrace their older sister. Realizing that through a loop hole, I had saved two innocent lives. As well more then likely others who were outside of the wall. It was also interesting to note that while they married to where their coats never shined, I think it could be said that maybe a lot of Equestria has a little Crystal Empire blood in their veins.” He chuckled and breathed outwards and it seemed to be a verbal cue that he was done talking.

After a moment of silence, one of the braver guards raised a hoof, proceeding to ask a question. “Is it true that you took on a dragon with a pitchfork?”

Pensword blinked and stood there in silence, He slowly smiled. “Well, if I did, it must have been a good reason.” He chuckled a little. “Still, I might say no, but after Sombra, I am not denying anything till I can confirm or deny it for real.” He paused and smiled even bigger. “Still, that would have been one interesting event.”

“What about you telling off a mass of Crystal Empire Captains?” Another guard questioned.

“That, was real.” He closed his eyes. “I will not speak ill of them, as I worry most of them did not live past the last battle. Just that until Luna arrived I had some… seniority in some sense. Also, I had to protect the children.” He shivered a little. “They were good leaders, just trying times for us all. Try keeping a cool head when your leadership was just toppled, from the inside.”

“Is it true you carried Lord Hammer Strike into the empire on your back?” One spoke up.

“Yes.” Pensword replied. “I had a little help from Grif to get him on my back but I carried him through the land to the gates of the Crystal Empire.” he was actually amazed at the question, but figured it was from a soldier who had come in after that scene he had talked about.

“What knocked him out?” the same guard asked.

“Frankly, Sombra trying to kill the three of us at the start of the adventure, however with time, well, storywise it was due to a sneak attack by changelings… which it seemed back then there had been a rather nasty battle with them as well.” he blinked. “How many different times will we have a Thousand years ago happening anyway?”

“What do you mean sir?”

“Changelings attacked a thousand years ago, Nightmare Moon was banished a thousand years ago, Discord was sealed a thousand years ago.” he paused and looked to Moonshade. “Anything else I am missing?” he looked back at the gathering. “I just hope we are done with a thousand years come back for revenge type things.” He sighed, “Or repeats.” By this time the group had convened into the Mess Hall.


“Okay let’s see.” Taze looked down his list carefully. “Pipsqueak, Alula, Twist,” he trailed down the list of names carefully. “Ok it looks like thats all of the foals from the snowball fight.” He wiped his brow, it had been hours but he’d managed to finally get too everyone on his list, darting back to the tavern he stopped in the back yard and in a few moments the human Taze stepped back into the punchbowl somewhat exhausted and happy to see the main room deserted. “Mutatio? Me-Me?” he called out. “You guys okay?”

“They are up in their room I think.” Berry replied with a shake of her hoof to the stairs. “I think they were getting full from the emotions in the room, odd, none of us noticed them feeding.”

“You wouldn’t notice the insignificant amount two changelings could skim off of everyone in the room and fill themselves.” Taze said. “Sylvio back upstairs?”

“Yep, they let him back into your room I think.” She shook her head. “Sorry, the paperwork and bills due at the end of the month always confuse me, Twilight helped with some of the language in the bill.”

“Did everyone enjoy their stuff?” Taze asked

She smiled. “This time I can say yes, they all enjoyed the gifts.”

“I hope you didn’t mind the extra people, I actually feel kinda bad, you didn’t really intend to have anyone here did you?” Taze asked.

“Nah, if anything it has caused the Tavern to become a little more of a center of activity. Also it is nice to have most of the rooms on a floor filled instead of a lot of empty rooms.” She laughed. “It also gives my daughter bragging rights at school.”

“Well have fun Berry, I need a nap before the others get back.” He said. “It’s been a long day.”

“Okay, have a good nap, and I’ll let the others not to be too loud to let you sleep.” She smiled and waved good bye.

“Thanks Berry.” He said as he climbed the stairs and made his way to his room. Opening the door, he gave Sylvio a scratch behind the ears before heading over to his bed and falling forward, he was unconscious before he hit the pillow.


“So throw it on, twist the gem clockwise, and I’m back as Hammer Strike?” Shawn questioned as he turned the bracelet over in his hand, taking in its details. It was a simple gold band with a ruby on it in the shape of an anvil, which he chuckled at.

“That is the basics of it, yes.” Princess Celestia nodded. “The enchantments are relatively new but everything seems to work.”

“Good to hear, shall I give it a go?” He said placing it on his wrist, then placing his hand onto the ruby with a pause.

“If you would like.” Celestia nodded.

Shawn gave a shrug as he turned the gem, with a short burst of light and an audible ‘pop’, he found himself standing on hooves.

“Well then, that was easier than last time.” Shawn replied, looking at his hooves.

“This should allow the two of you to access this other form much easier, incase you must visit the empire or other areas of Equestria.” Celestia noted.

Shawn chuckled. “Yeah, that will be very useful. Thanks again, to both you and your sister.”

“Of course.” Celestia nodded. “Was there anything else you needed?” She asked.

“Not that I know of.” Shawn, or Hammer Strike, replied with a smile. “Anything you wish to talk about or request?” He gave a raised brow.

“No.” She shook her head. “Currently, I am kept well up to date by the reports from Moonshade and Twilight Sparkles observations.” Celestia noted. “Have a happy Hearth's Warming Lord Hammer Strike.” She said bowing her head.

“You as well.” Hammer Strike replied. “Should you ever feel the need for small talk, send me a message.” He chuckled. “I have enough bits for the train tickets.”

“I shall keep that in mind, I believe you had someplace to be heading to?” She smiled as she remained otherwise serine and no emotions. Yet it seemed that she already knew what he was planning on doing.

“Certainly, I guess I shall bid you, Adieu.” He said with a nod, turning around, and starting his walk out. Upon exit, he was greeted with a slightly darker sky, and the two guards waiting for him, though not in this form.

“Good day my lord.” One guard nodded as though Shawn where any other nobel.

“Certainly.” He replied, raising his brow. “I do believe there was some questions to be answered.” He hummed afterwards with a small smile.

“Excuse me?” the other guard asked “I’m sorry my lord but we are currently escorting somepony.”

“Ah yes, what was his name?” Hammer started as he turned the gem with a smirk and a flash of light Shawn was standing there. “Oh yes, Shawn, was it?”

“My lord.” Both guard stiffened. “I’m sorry we did not recognize you.”

Shawn raised a brow as he turned the gem and reverted back to Hammer Strike. “You act as though I expected you to, not like this, for we never truly met like this.” He smiled. “Should I start?” He gave a smirk before chuckling a little.

“Of course my lord.” The guard on the right said.

Hammer chuckled. “Alright, It is a pleasure to meet you, I am Hammer Strike.” He said with a low nod.

“I am Blast Shield.” The one on the right bowed.

“And I am his brother Tower Shield.” The left one bowed.

“Well met.” Hammer smiled. “Shall we head off?”

“Of course my lord.” Blast Shield answered as the two took their positions.

“Anything new happen recently, besides the warpath and rumors on that Lord Shawn, fellow.” He jokingly smirked, chuckling a little. “Don’t expect that often, I would rather not split my personality.”

“Princess Celestia has ordered us to… relocate some of Bluebloods servants.” Tower Shield answered.

“Hopefully somewhere can be found.” He replied with a small frown. “To be out of a job over a reason like that…” He shook his head. “Any good news?”

“All damages incurred by the changeling attack have been officially repaired, trade agreements with the Crystal Empire are going well, as well.” Blast Shield noted.

“That’s very good to hear.” He smiled a bit. “The Crystal Empire could use it.”

After a bit of time he found himself at the train station bidding his two guards farewell, but saying they will meet again, someday. With a sigh he walked into the train and got himself into an area that was pretty empty. “Good, less company.” He muttered to himself, with a sigh, a bit tired.

As he sat himself down there was a flash of light and before him was a scroll, wrapped in a ribbon and golden insignia of the sun. With a raised brow he pulled up the scroll and opened it up to read Celestia’s message.

Dear Lord Hammer Strike

It has come to our knowledge that all former servants of house Strike have passed on to the great fields. It is therefore our greatest pleasure to….

“Lord Hammer Strike?” A rather well cultured voice broke his reading of the letter, “At least I presume you are Lord Hammer Strike.”

“Yes?” He replied looking up at the ten to fifteen ponies in front of him. “Uh. Can I be of assistance?” He questioned with a raised brow.

“Very good sir, I have been asked to act as your personal Seneschal in acclimating to the Equestrian society, I assure you at the moment those who were in training or are Seneschal’s are all well aware of how to accommodate those, from another time, Princess Luna is to thank for that.” He smiled. It was here that Lord Hammer Strike was seeing that a few of the ponies had askew wigs.

After a moment of processing those around him he closed his eyes and sighed a little. “Blueblood?” He questioned. “The, wigs…” He said, twirling his hoof lightly.

“A tactic to keep the staff for Prince Blueblood from suffering too much, we, took a slight hit for the rest of the servants, also before you ask, he is not a real prince, just part of his name. He is a noble pony none the less.”

“One that seems…” Hammer Strike paused for a second. “Stuck up, at least from what I myself know.”

“More like, old society from five hundred years ago.” A maid muttered. “He is trying to act in charge, though he fights with his brother who unlike blueblood had actually taken up residence in one of their far flung holdings to run that part of their estates. Though his father is much worse, however none of us worked for him.”

“Quite a bit of info.” He hummed in question.

The Seneschal only smiled. “Always good to know what the noble houses are doing, and seems that you will be the talk of the servants what with getting a small jump start on your staff from Blue Blood's house, I do have one thing to ask, we don’t have to wear wigs will we?”

“Certainly not.” He gave a small smile. “You are all free to wear what you wish.” He sighed a bit heavily. “We have not even moved into the Everfree castle yet…” He said placing a hoof to his head. It was at this moment he noticed all of them seemed to still be standing, though the train was on its way to starting its journey. “Still standing? We have a while before we show up to Ponyville…”

The Group blinked and looked at each other but after another move of the hoof from Lord Hammer Strike the group slowly settled down onto the train just as it jerked forward leaving the station.

“There we go.” He smiled. “Let me finish this letter and we can continue our conversation, alright?”

“Of course Lord Hammer Strike,” The seneschal replied with a bow of his head. “If you need anything you can call on me. My name is Polished Brass.”

“A pleasure to meet you, though it might take me a bit to get your name down.” He tapped a hoof to his head. “Takes me a bit to remember names.” He smiled as he grabbed the letter again.

...it is therefore our greatest pleasure to aid you in restaffing your house. These servants were recently released from service of the estate of Prince Blueblood. We hope they well provide you with the same faithful loyal service as they did him.

HRH
Princess Celestia of Equestria.

“That, somewhat explains that…” He mumbled to himself.

“So…” He started again. “Polished Brass, how was this explained to yourself and those with you?”

“Well, it was either, land on the streets without work, or take a job in moving into Ponyville and then the Everfree. Many of us took the job as a means to keep having a roof over our heads and, in our own way, shape a noble house from the start.” He looked to one of the maids as he said the last part.

“We’re you told full info on my companions and myself?”

The group remained silent and it was the same maid who had been looked at that broke the silence, it was clear that she might be a little outspoken. “Well, if we did we sure won’t blab it on the train car and that is a fact.” She nodded her head to emphasize that point.

“Oh I have a feeling we’re in for an interesting time.” He said with a tone they couldn’t pick up on.


Pensword looked up at the sky and back to the ground. It was a nice distraction but most of the soldiers had gone about checking on equipment or planning out the next day. Leaving Pensword and Moonshade to wonder the empty street a little. Pensword only paused. “Moonshade, I just got a, I don’t know why but I just wondered how many free rooms we have left in the tavern, I think the top floor and some space in the basement.”

Moonshade only chuckled. “What? Worried that somehow Canterlot is going to send more ponies our way? Why would they do that? I think we already doubled the population of the Ponyville regions already. I doubt they would send anypony else, especially with how close we are to setting up camp at the castle.” She paused and looked at him. “Although in legend Pensword seemed to have a, gut feel about events, I better start having the guards either vacate the place to stay in the Barracks or start putting more ponies into the same room.”

“Thank you,” He paused and laughed. “Well, two hours till he comes back, and I wouldn’t mind if you came with me to pick him out, as you do technically represent the troops in some fashion.”

“So how was your first Hearth's Warming?” she asked as they left the fort.

“Well,” he began as they started down a path that was starting to be well worn already. “It was amazing, nice to see the snow covering everything for, well for  white holiday.” he finished before blinking and she could tell he was having a small bout of sadness. “I however miss my family, and wonder how they are handling a Christmas without me. Family is close and important with me. Kind of like the Pegasus race in a way.” He took a slow deep breath and let it out slowly again. “Still, having ponies and humans I consider family and close friends.” he smiled at her a little, “It helped to dull the pain.” He chuckled a little. “Still, what a nice holiday, and so peaceful.” He looked to Moonshade suddenly with a questioning look. “Is there some type of giant holiday meal for Hearth Warming day?” he asked, looking a little serious.

“Depends on the ponies involved I imagine your friends this morning probably have family and such they need to spend the evening with.” Moonshade noted.

“Very true, then I think we should have a nice dinner at the tavern if that is okay sounding to you Major.” He chuckled a little and smiled.

“I believe you three also have unfinished business between yourselves.” She noted. “Are you ready for it?”

“I believe I am ready for that, the gifts are wrapped and we just need to meet up as a group.” He smiled with a laugh. “Actually, I got something for you as well that I didn’t get a chance to give yet. So I wouldn’t mind if you joined as well.” He winked a little. “I think you would like the items I got.”

“Well if it is a direct request of my superior I can’t very well refuse now can I?” She smiled. Pensword shook his head as they continued their way to the Tavern to regroup and hopefully get Taze when he gets back from his errands to be at the Train station waiting for Lord Shawn’s arrival.


It was about two hours later that Taze, Moonshade, Twilight Sparkle, Mutatio in disguise, and Pensword all standing and waiting for the train to arrive from Canterlot. At the moment it was just silence. Pensword turned to his friend. “Okay, thought experiment, or rather from a note from Matthew. Japan, with control of the Mongolian Horde.”

“That would end up with a race of warriors able to be equally dangerous with a sword or bow, while riding a horse with their knees with steel and japan's advanced armor technologies and weapon designs, they’d have asia in ten years, europe in five, the world in three.” Taze said. “Not including travel.”

“Or storms.” Pensword replied. “That is a scary thought… but those are decades right?” He paused. “Nevermind, the Mongolians did conquer part of the Europe.” He chuckled and looked saddened. “I miss all my history books, I could teach so much to the troops and to Moonshade.”

“What I wouldn’t do for a book of the five rings right now.” Taze noted. “Maybe the grandmasters notes could help me refine my style.” he looked back at his swords.

“At least we have been reading up on Arty a little.” Pensword replied with a chuckle.

“The art of war is useful for learning strategy and skill.” Taze nodded. “But the book of the five rings was written by miyamoto musashi, the arguably best human to ever lay a hand on a sword, the book is like a ‘sword play for idiots’ manuel.”

It was here that the two noticed something, Twilight had a piece of parchment and wrote something on it. She looked up and smiled. “Sorry, I just keep hearing this words, and so I thought you might like a list if they do open a pathway home, of things to take with you, so that you don’t have this when you are back on Earth.”

"You’re gonna grill us on this later aren't you?" Taze asked her deadpan.

“Well, it sounds like a fascinating part of your history.” She blinked at the face Pensword made. “A bad part of it?”

“No, just, what we are doing is something intellectuals do at times, they take what they know, find another friend that has knowledge and hash out what might be called an alternate history. For example, what if NIghtmare Moon won? Or Celestia was the one to become jealous? OR Sombra won?” He smiled a little. “Now not all would be like that, because, what if Luna never got jealous? What if their was a thousand years of Luna and Celestia ruling side by side. Would the castle be abandoned now? Would this area be a built up metropolis?” He smiled a little. “That, is what we are doing, the wonderful world of What If.”

“You have to remember Twilight, we’ve seen your history, and ninety percent of your wars where in self defense against foreign sources, for the most part ponies are peaceful from what your history says.” Taze noted. “It’s not the same for humans, we developed war first and human history has considerably more war then peace. We have had to make several classifications for war just to be able to sort the war in our history, we have put more resources than can be comprehended into finding a bigger stick to hit the other guy with or a larger rock to throw. it has caused many different people to come into notoriety for many different reasons, and it is human nature to consider ‘What if this person had this?’ or ‘What if that guy had that?’ it’s how we live.”

Pensword nodded his head. “If you could look at one of your pony races to get a small inkling for how humanity worked.” he smiled and spread his wings a little. “I think the Pegasus history might give a few clues.” He looked sideways. “Reminds me, I need to check out a book on the Thestral Ponies and their History at some point.” he chuckled as he turned his ears. “I hear the train. Just crossed the trestle.”

Twilight and Moonshade looked at each other. “How? I mean I don’t hear it.” Twilight spoke as she looked around. “I know Ponies hear better than humans but how?”

“I grew up and trained myself to listen for the whistle of a train engine. I think I can catch it on the wind where others will just pass it off as something else on the wind, not the whistle is nothing compared to some of the horns of the trains back home, but I can know a train whistle when I hear one.”

“He really likes trains.” Taze shrugged.

After a moment, the train came into view. Some time later it came to a stop in front of them, the doors opening and the crowd coming out, but with no sign of Shawn.

“Something seems off.” Taze noted looking around. “My spider sense is tingling.”

“Possibly due to the fact you are looking for another.” A familiar voice said behind the group.

“Shawn? Where are you?” Taze turned around and looked around the area at his own height.

“Shawn isn’t here, but I am.” He heard the voice again and a poke at his side. “Now, stop that, we have business to work out.”

Pensword blinked and then moved to a stance of attention. “Lord Hammer Strike, I was not expecting you to be arriving on tonights train.” He remained still and looking forward without saying another word.

“Oh my lord I see Princess Celestia presented you with her Hearths Warming gift.” Taze noted. “I take it you have come to inspect the preparations?”

“I will be with you as we start the move, but, I do have another question for you Pensword.” Hammer chuckled. “Know if there is another floor empty, or rooms available? For we are being joined by more.”

“I think so, the top floor is empty, at the moment that is.” Pensword replied. “I only know this from exploring and asking Berry Punch, usually during Hearth Warming if family or relatives visit they stay in the homes not in taverns or inns.”

“Good… Good.” Hammer replied, looking behind the group. “Well Brass, shall we get everything set up? I will have to talk with Berry about this.”

“Of course milord. I take it this is the group you referred to?” He raised an eyebrow. “I take it you have already taken a commander for any troops who would serve your house?”

“Yes, Pensword here.” He replied.

“Brass?” Taze asked as he turned to the pony. “You’re not going to try and turn lord Hammer Strike into a uptight self righteous nutbag who thinks the dust on his hooves is worth more than everyone else are you?”

The Schencheal only made a face. “After seeing Prince Blueblood, I dare say we might try and let him set his pace first… Polish what he is, nothing more.”

Pensword blinked. “Uh… wait,” He blinked and steeled his face. “Wait, just who are you. As you know I am Sir Pensword and I am Captain of any guards of Lord Hammer Strike, Who are you?”

The Pony only smiled, “I am Polished Brass and I am the new Schencheal for Lord Hammer Strike.”

Pensword only nodded slowly. “So you are effectively the one that runs the entire servants of the house, as well as work part time as calendar keeper?”

“My my, you do know your words and I thought most guards were just all about orders and nothing else.” He was only smiling now.

“I like learning.” He growled back. “I was either going to be a scholar or a warrior, You can see what I picked for main focus, I still have my hobbies.”

“Wonderful.” Hammer sighed to himself.

Polished Brass only bowed his head slowly, the horn on his head dipped to the ground. “My apologies, first let me introduce myself, I am Polished Brass, and I felt it would be wise to see what, kind of ponies you have around you, and seems you have come from the Celestia school of thought, respectful but enjoys the thoughts and free thinking.” He only smiled. “Nice to see her thoughts being used again after so many decades of neglect.”

“One rule.” Taze said to Brass. “When we get into the Everfree castle, my room and Sir Grif’s is off limits, I am very particular about my things as is Sir Grif, no one is to enter the room for chance of something being placed wrong alright?”

“Very well, I shall be sure to keep that in mind with any of the staff that is not currently helping you or your friend Grif and to make sure your room is kept, untouched unless you give word otherwise.” His voice very proper and showed he understood and had no plans of undermining what had been asked of him.

“Okay, but why did you ask about an entire floor, I mean surely Polished Brass could stay in your room Lord Hammer Strike, why all the extra rooms being needed?” Twilight asked with a raised eyebrow, ”Surely you are not planning to turn the top floor into some private residence or something?”

“About that…” He didn’t finish as the rest of Polished Brass’ group caught up with their items. “Not just him.”

Pensword only blinked. “That is a platoon of, okay I can see why you asked for more rooms.” He was just staring. “Taze, make a note, Moonshade as well, as soon as winter wrap up is over. We are moving out even if I have to destroy any tornadoes to make it happen. Ponyville might not handle any more ponies meant for Everfree.”

“I think I’ll get the forward parties ready to move as soon as possible.” Taze said “This many civilians we’ll need the path clear asap.”

“Agreed, take men from my group if needed.” Pensword replied. “Not sure how many can wield a blade.”


Hammer Strike walked into the Tavern with a quick look around. He spotted Berry behind one of the counters, currently looking over a ledger at the counter. “Ah, Berry, I hope I am not interrupting anything important, but I might need to speak with you, about some business.”

“What is it Lord Hammer Strike?” Berry smirked giving him a theatrical bow.

“Funny.” He chuckled low. “But, it seems we are in need of more rooms, perhaps another seven to eight.” He paused for a second. “Do you by chance have that many rooms free? I would of course be paying for them myself this time, not by Celestia.”

“There’s always open rooms I think we got six on the final floor.” Berry said. “Why do you need so many?”

Hammer chuckled and then sighed. “Celestia has sent some… Help…”

She raised an eyebrow “Help?”

It was at that moment Polished Brass had walked into the Tavern, taking in the details of the structure before giving a nod.

“I must say, a rather unique way of handling a housing situation at the moment.” He paused and bowed to Berry Punch. “Good Day Madam. I am Polished Brass new Schencheal for Lord Hammer Strike.”

“Okay, I’m gonna need some more clarification here.” Berry said. “Now I haven’t had anything to drink yet so I know I’m not hallucinating, what the buck is going on?”

“Know how most nobles have those who assist in daily routine?” Hammer started.

“Yes…” Berry responded.

“Exactly. But not, just him.” He finished.

“Didn’t figure you where the servant type.” Berry said with a grin.

“Yeah, it was a surprise to me.” Hammer said. “It was either this or on the street, and even then, I couldn’t let that happen.” He chuckled. “Might get a bit bored since I won’t really be requesting much.”

“Then at least allow us the duty to maintain the quarters so you can focus on your forging or other tinkering.” Polished Brass replied. “Just think of living every inventors dream, having staff to help pick up or take care of the tasks either too busy or do not care about.”

“Whilst it would be helpful, I wouldn’t want to rely on it, otherwise I will end up being lazy and possibly more reckless.”

“Very well, then at least give us a changing schedule. You must at least realize that when you start hosting you cannot clean all the rooms by yourself, or cook meals for twenty ponies or so. If anything, the staff might enjoy having a noble who knows the work they do, and helps out, just let us handle certain areas of the rebuilt castle or quarters.” He only smiled and kept that same calm tone of voice.

Pensword only smiled. “Oh nice, debating on duties, right from the start different from other nobles I have seen in my brief time in modern Canterlot.”

“Certainly.” Hammer replied. “Alright then…” He paused. “Now, onto the business of rooms.” He said turning to Berry. “How much will it require for the six rooms?”

“Three hundred bits.” Berry said doing the basics. “Not including food and such.”

“Oh.” Hammer chuckled. “I actually do not have that much on myself, might have to grab the rest.” He said, reaching into his coat to pull out a bag before placing it down on the counter before Berry. “Give me a minute, I’ll get the rest.” He smiled as he turned and headed for the stairs.

“Of course, you know where to find me.” Berry called back before looking back at the main room and blinked. “Uh,” She looked behind her and rubbed her hooves over her eyes before looking back. They were already tidying the commons. “You don’t have to do that.”

Polished Brass only smiled. “Well, we might come to an agreement on, lowering the cost for extra days, if we can work a little around the tavern. We like working for our keep.”

“We’ll have to see after” Berry responded. “For now I gotta go pick my daughter up from the apples.” Berry said heading for the door.

“Very well, I shall inform Lord Hammer Strike where you have gone off to, when he returns to pay the rest of the bill.” He bowed again and slowly began to walk towards the stairs.

After a moment Polished Brass found himself at Lord Hammer Strikes room, the door was slightly ajar with sounds coming from inside.

Polished Brass knocked on the door and it swung open fully and he blinked. “My word… it looks like a child ran rampant inside the room.”

“Oi! It is not that bad.” Hammer defended. “I just haven’t had the time to clean up from the wrapping, and creation of several projects, from last night.” He sighed. “Yeah, it is messy, I was going to work on that tonight after we returned from eating, then open what I was given.” He gestured the neat pile of wrapped objects on the side.

“Ah, if you need help tomorrow, do not hesitate to ask any of us, we would enjoy helping and giving a hoof, more hooves make light work.” Polished Brass replied with a small smirk, a new facial expression for him. “Gives you a chance to see how we work.”

“Perhaps.” Hammer sighed. “Still adjusting to this…” He moved his hoof in a circular gesture. “Might… Take some time.” He paused. “Is there something going on?” He questioned suddenly. “I was going to give her the rest.” He paused.

“She has gone to Sweet Apple Acres to pick up her daughter for the night, she will be back later tonight.” he replied, “You may want to wait till then to give your payment so that nothing gets lost.”

“Certainly.” He replied, putting the pouch into the chest and closing it. “Certainly… Now, what to do…”

There was a sound of the door downstairs opening abruptly and voices talking to each other. After a moment there was a pause and the sound of hooves coming upstairs.

Pensword poked his head into the room. “I am to relay a message,” he cleared his voice. “Please tell your friends that they are invited to Sweet Apple Acres for dinner with the Apple Family.” He tried to say that with a southern accent. “Well that is the message milord.”

Hammer raised his brows. “I nearly forgot about that. I guess we are headed there, but I don’t think they mean all of us… I have an idea.” He said heading back the chest in which he had stored his bits. He pulled out one of the sacks that had bits in it before turning to Polished. “I’m sure you and the rest could use a meal yourself, the train ride did run through what would be dinner for most, so I want you to use this to get a meal for all of you. Use what you need.” He said with a smile, holding the sack out to Polished. “On me, I could not make you use your own money, you just arrived and I don’t expect you all to carry quite a number of bits on you.”

“Very well, we shall find a place to eat and we shall see you when you get back from your evening out.” Polished Brass took the bag with his magic and turned around to walk out of the room.

Hammer sighed as he looked around the room one more time. “Soon.” He muttered to himself, before perking up slightly. “Well, on to dinner I suppose.” He said to Pensword.

“Agreed, just to let you know Applebloom is going to be leading us there, as she walked over to here and now back. For a filly she can walk a long distance.”

“Sometimes people, or ponies in this case, just walk. Walk for long points in time, by distraction, by thought, or by simple boredom.” He chuckled. “It explains my walks.” He said, heading out the door of his room as he closed the door behind him.


The three, Hammer Strike, Pensword, and Grif found themselves walking with Appleblood to Sweet Apple Acres, though when they got close enough she ran ahead saying she would see them inside.

Hammer simply chuckled as she ran ahead. “Ready?” He smiled as he looks to Pensword and Grif.

“Of course my lord.” Grif smiled as he gestured intricately.

“Ah, cut that out.” Hammer chuckled. “We’re all friends here, and I still don’t know what to even think of that.” He sighed. “Not while it’s, when it’s just us-” He paused.”Or even out there, you don’t need to use the lord title.”

“Fine.” Grif said. “It was fun watching you squirm though.”

“It just…” He sighed. “I don’t know what to think of this.”

“Well, you can get back to normal.” Pensword replied after scanning the area with his hearing. “Me, this is my new normal,” He shook his head. “I mean… I am not wearing anything, and that is considered normal.” He shook his head. “Anyway, you’ll get use to it, or go mad.” He blinked as he shook a thought from his head. “Oh look, we are eating in the barn tonight.”

Hammer chuckled. “I think I’ve already gone mad, look at what stunts I’ve been doing. Building, smithing, we fought in two wars.” He sighed. “Two wars. It’s certainly… not what I would expect. But I guess that’s how it is…”

“Well, that is what happens, you never know till your back’s to the wall what you will do.”

“At least we got each others backs.” Grif noted. “Better than being alone.”

Pensword shivered. “I do not think I would have been strong enough if it was just I here in Equestria.”

“Thankfully we don’t have to worry about that.” Hammer smiled. “Come now, we’re here.” He said entering the barn to reveal Applejack, Big Mac, Granny Smith, Moonshade, Berry Punch, Berry Pinch, Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie, Spike, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Applebloom, Dinky, Derpy, and even the Doctor.

“Full house it seems.” He chuckled.

“Good morning San Francisco.” Grif chuckled under his breath.

“Uh what?” Pensword muttered to Grif, a moment before he smiled as he got the reference his friend had given. He then turned to smile at the group. “Thank you for the invite.”

“Think nothin’ of it Sugarcube.” Applejack responded.

“And too the lady of the house.” Grif spoke producing a lily he had swiped from Berry’s vase to Granny Smith.

“Well now, a gryphon given me a flower.” Granny Smith said. “Now I’ve seen it all.”

“Never know.” Hammer chuckled. “Never know.”

Pensword nodded. “I have learned never to say that, it usually gets disproven.”

“Certainly.” Hammer agreed. “Now, how is everypony?”

He was met with the majority, at once, responding with a typical, ‘good’, ‘well’, and a single ‘Okie Dokie Loki’.

Pensword only smiled before looking around him. “So, is their assigned seating or will we be seating randomly?” He smiled a little after his question. “Just, rather not sit in somepony else’s seat.” He finished off as he tapped the floor a little with a hoof.

As he was looking down, he did not get the look that formed on Rarity’s face, however it was Granny who beat all to the punch. “Well,” She began, I think the two guards might prefer to sit against the wall facing the doors incase any trouble makers show up, both in the middle?” She asked as she slowly walked to the two seats.

Moonshade blinked and looked at Pensword as he looked at her. They both blinked at the same time before chuckling. “I guess,” She began, “That could work, I never liked sitting back to a door anyway.”

Pensword nodded his head. “Nor I, and yet my workspace for schooling had me face against a wall and back to a door, anytime someone walked by I turned around wondering if they were going to speak to me.”

Moonshade only nodded. “I shall keep that in mind with your office, your office and barracks should be done by Winter Wrap Up.” She paused and shook her head. “A fort built and to be abandoned this spring. Did we not think this through?”

“Nah,” Pensword started in reply as they walked to their seats. “I think if anything, it will make the job safer on site, I think we had three building collapse during construction, and two from heavy snow fall? If anything while we lost supplies, no guards were hurt.” He shook his head. “Imagine that happening in the heart of the forest.”

Moonshade only nodded her head as she blinked when Pensword turned and moved the chair out for her. She only smiled and sat down and made an eep when she felt the chair be pushed in a little. She turned her head to the side as Pensword sat down. She only smiled and turned her head to look at her plate to hide a slight blush.

“Chimichanga cherries? That is awesome.” PInkie Pie yelled out in a loud joyful voice.

While this had happened with Pensword and Moonshade under the deft hoof of Granny Smith, it left Grif and Lord Hammer Strike to find a place to sit for the meal.

“Excuse me.” Grif said as he moved to where Spike and the CMC were. “Seems easier to sit with the smallest when you're amongst the biggest.” he noted.

“You’re gonna sit with us Mr. Grif?” Applebloom questioned.

“Is that a problem?” Grif asked.

“Ah just thought you would sit with Hammer or Pensword…” She continued.

“But I always sit with Pensword and Hammer Strike.” He put a fake whine to his voice “I don’t wanna.” he pouted.

That caused the young ones around him to chuckle. “Okay then.” Applebloom said.

Hammer Strike on that note had actually found an empty seat, next to Rarity.

“Is this seat available miss Rarity?” He questioned.

“But of course my lord.” She smiled. “One might say it has been waiting for you.”

He chuckled as he sat down. “How has your day been? Well, I would presume?”

“Oh it has been excellent.” Rarity smiled “I opened presents with my friends this morning, spent the afternoon with my family and now I am back here surrounded by my friends again, I couldn’t ask for a better Hearths Warming.”

“Sounds like a wonderful time.” He smiled as he looked to everypony present.

“And you my lord? How was Canterlot?” she asked.

“Mostly a business trip, but, I do have… servants now…” He sighed but shrugged afterwards. “I don’t know how to feel on that…”

“Well surely you couldn’t have expected to maintain the Everfree Castle yourself could you?” She asked.

“Certainly not. It’s just…” He paused, something conflicting. “It’s just…” He sighed. “I don’t know, do you think I can talk with you after all this?”

“Of course my lord.” She smiled at him.

As the groups were talking, Apple Jack and Big Mac got up and moved to a long table that was against one side of the barn. On the table were plates of food with metal covers to keep the meals warm and they quickly began to pass out the food to everypony, while this happened Twilight was up as well to help AppleJack with filling up the drinks as the conversations continued.

“Rainbow Dash,” Twilight admonished, “That is for the toasting, don’t drink it all at once.” She sighed and refilled Rainbow Dash’s glass before moving on to finish the task. It was just minutes later that Granny Smith called the room to silence with a slight click of her horse shoes on the table.

“Now, as Matriarch of this her family and gathering, I would like to first say thank you for coming, and spending time with us. We know it is hard to be with family if they are far away, and that is why we have this every year, after those Flim Flam brothers showed that you are honorary family, we like to say welcome to old, and to the newcomers, welcome, we are just sad you have not family, so consider this a place of safety.” She smiled while she took a sip of water. “Now, I just want to start the toasting with a toast to our ancestors who found Harmony and the magic fire of friendship against the wendigo's.”

What followed was a group shout as they repeated Granny Smith’s toast. They then took a sip from the cups. Rainbow Dash stood up. “To the wonderbolts.” She took a sip as the others shouted the toast in repeat.

Grif stood up “To those that died for the Crystal Empire.” he said taking a sip. The others spoke a little more somberly repeating the toast.

Twilight Sparkle stood up next. “To Princess Celestia raiser of the Sun and Princess Luna, raiser of the Moon.” The exact same process occurred as before, with the repeat and the sip.

Rarity smiled as she stood up. “To Lord Shawn, who is not here physically, but here in thought and mind.” The group only shouted the first part before sipping their drink.

Apple Bloom was next to stand up. “To my big Sister Applejack, the best big sister ah could ever have.” She sipped from her drink as the others shouted “To Applejack.”

Applejack only blushed as stood up herself. “To my entire family, who has kept me true and straight when my own mind has gotten too big for the pastor.” This caused a few laughs but the group shouted the blessing as well.

Derpy stood up next and smiled. “To Equestria, may she forever shine as a beacon.” She raised her mug and took a sip as the others followed suit with “To Equestria.”

Pinkie stood up. “To the writers.” She looked at everyone who was staring at her. “I mean…. cupcakes?”

“To Cupcakes?” The toast ended up sounding more like a question while all present looked at each other in confusion and a shake of the head while a few muttered about it not being normal till Pinkie Pie did, well a Pinkie Pie.

Big Mac stood next and looked to Pinkie Pie with a confused look before looking straight ahead. “To Ponyville.” He called out, his voice while still low, still seemed to shake the room a little with his voice.

Fluttershy only eeped as she followed with “To Equestria.” Before she found herself standing and all present were looking at anyplace then her. She felt a little better and spoke, her voice sounding more like a gentle spring breeze at the moment. “To all the life on Equis, may she remain as wonderful tomorrow as it was yesterday.” No one repeated her toast as they sipped on the non alcoholic cider. It seemed that they were doing so for Fluttershy’s sake.

“To Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo raised her mug causing everypony to laugh as they humoured her with a sip.

“To Rarity!” Sweetie Belle chimed in, it seemed personal toasts were indeed coming from the foals.

“To Mommy and Papa!” Dinky finished everyone raised their mug Grif and Pensword grinned as they mouthed ‘To the Doctor’ and took their drink.

It was here that the Doctor stood up and smiled as he looked around. “To Derpy one of the most fantastic mares in the world, and to Magic, a most wonderful way to live.” He took a sip and smacked his lips a little and sat down after all the others toasted to Derpy. The Doctor leaned over and whispered something to her and while unhearable by all there, whatever it was, it caused Derpy to only giggle.

Spike stood up next before moving to stand on his chair. “To Twilight the best teacher and who raised me to be the best assistant dragon in Equestria.” He smiled with pride while Twilight blushed as her friends toasted her.

Moonshade stood up and actually blushed realizing that maybe she did not know what to say, however she did think of something. “To the dream, for without it, there would be no progress nor will to see another day.” She took a sip and after all the voices repeated her toast she sat down.

Pensword stood next and looked around the room slowly. “To our history, for with history, we have the rudder to guide us to our future.” He blinked as the ponies took the toast and repeated the two main ones. “To the Past and Future.” They all sipped as Berry Punch stood next. “To the humans and ponies from Canterlot, who have made my life a whole lot more interesting, and who have single hoofed created the most talked about place in town.” The group didn’t know how to respond so they just toasted to their “guests” at the tavern.

Berry Pinch stood and was in fact the last of the foals to do a toast. “I wish to toast the guests as well, who have also made mommy happy and made sure that our roof remains over our heads for a long time to come.” The toast that was repeated was “To our Guests again.” it was then that all turned to look at the last pony who had not given a toast yet.

Hammer Strike looked out to those before him, giving a smile he stood. “To Friendship,” He started, “Something that has brought us all together, a force that has made us, who we are, and shaped our bonds with one another.” His smile turned soft. “The bonds that held us all together, through the bad. So I say, to friendship, for without it, without you all, I surely would have gone mad, long ago.” He finished with a strong smile, lifting his glass.

The rest of the room thundered the final toast. “To Friendship.” They then finished the rest of the drink in the mug as Granny Smith stood up.

“I now say it is time to eat, dig in Friends and Family.” She sat down and the sounds of the covers being removed and the clink of silverware filled the barn, while conversations began either from where they were left or brand new ones adding yet another spice to the meal, one of friendship and conversation.

The meal itself was a very normal Equestrian blend of foods and grains, while their was a bit of fish for the Pegasus and Grif, it was thankfully prepared in a way that did not offend or made any ponies queasy, though their was one question asked from Scootaloo.

“Who made the fish?” What came next shocked not just Scootaloo but a few others as well. The Pony that raised a hoof was actually Fluttershy who was hiding behind her mane. “You?” Scootaloo asked in blunt shock. “But, you take care of animals, how?”

“Oh,” Fluttershy replied, her voice a little stronger as it was about something she liked. “Because not all my animal friends eats seeds or nuts, I do feed some of my weasel friends fish. There is Ms. Otter as well who also eats fish from the stream, and just because I care for animals doesn’t mean I don’t know about nature, did you know that if push came to shove some of those animals you think eat just leafy greens will eat meat? Or that if threatened,”

“I think that is good.” Twilight replied with a nervous laugh. “I doubt some of use would be able to finish our meal if you finished, Sorry Fluttershy but,”

“Oh,” Fluttershy interrupted Twilight, “I understand, I can get a little carried away, but nature is so fascinating and fun to watch.”

Pensword only smiled and nodded his head, his ears flicking to hone in on Fluttershy. “I agree, in a way, civilization tames a bit of the wild side of nature, so that at least from what Matthew told me, some humans never never hunt or see what it takes to,” he paused as Twilight glared. “Right, wrong topic.” He looked to Moonshade. “Reminds me of home.” he whispered. “Mom would tell me to stop talking about war around her.”

He did not expect her response, a giggle and a laugh as she covered her mouth with a hoof. “Well, you can talk about that if you want when we are snaking or something.”

Pensword actually blinked but nodded his head with a smile. “Thank you.”

“Your Welcome.” Pensword replied as he returned to his plate and meal as he lapsed into thought. He just listened to the rest of the meal conversation without talking as he just felt lost now with topics from some sports team he never heard of, to what was the nuances of weather control. Yet he didn’t know the first thing about even moving a cloud.


Eventually they found themselves all departing from the barn, some grouped together in their walk out, notable ones were, Pensword and Moonshade, Grif, and Hammer Strike and Rarity.

“I shall see you at the Tavern later, I am going to walk Miss Rarity home.” Hammer said to Grif and Pensword.

“I think I’m going to take a midnight flight.” Grif said, “Been a while since I got a chance to use these just for the sake of flying.” he gestured with his wings before taking to the air.

Moonshade only smiled. “I think I am going to show the old timer a refresher on moving clouds.” She smiled as she put a hoof into the side of Pensword’s ribs. “Come on, let’s get into the air.”

“Okay, okay drill sergeant I heard you the first time.” He sighed. “Old Timer? Just watch what you saw Whippersnapper, if you call me that respect your elders.” The two took to the air with a little bit of laughter on the wind.


FLIGHT! The thought reeled through Grifs mind as he soared as high as he could go. Thousands of years of dreaming and now he held it in his grasp. he couldn’t help but grin as he felt the wind on his fur and feathers. Opening his eye’s wide he marveled at the nights sky as he soared above the clouds. The beauty of the nights sky through his gryphon eyes was incredible. stretching as far as the mind could comprehend.

With a sudden flare of his wings he stopped his accent. He looked down as the expanse beneath him, the land played out like a giant patchwork quilt. How was he breathing up this high? How was he still warm enough to move? So many questions reeled through his mind as he took in the details around him. “To think it only took an alternate dimension and a complete change in species to get a view like this.” He said to no one in particular. While staying in the air, his griffon eyes spotted many small details as well as watching the sun slowly set in a dramatic manner and then from the same horizon came the moon rising up majestically to take its spot in the night sky as stars began to become visible to all who looked only up.

Over the next hour or so he simply hovered there soaking in the beauty of his surroundings, with a sigh he spied his watch, the others would be back at the tavern soon and he should get back. taking one last look at the sky he turned towards the tavern and let himself drop into a dive. Physics that had baffled scientists for years reacted on instinct as he flared his wings before the ground got to close and let himself slowly descend before landing on the ground. He entered the tavern with a grin plastered on his face, no matter what happened at least he had these memories.


“I must say,” Rarity replied in a breathless air of elegance. “I did not expect you to walk me home. I hope you didn’t mind me letting Sweetie Belle stay with her friends tonight.”

“I do not mind.” Hammer replied simply. “I could not just let you walk home alone, it just does not seem right.”

“Such a gentlecolt.” Rarity smiled. “Or is that some of the old world talking?” she poked.

He chuckled. “A little of that column, but it’s just in my nature.”

“Well you certainly have a good nature then.” She smiled. “You mentioned wanting to talk earlier?” she asked.

He paused for a second. “Yes...” He said hesitantly. “I was wondering if I could commission something from you.”

“Oh?” She asked with a raised eyebrow. “What do you have in mind?”

“An old memory, well... It seems, distant now.” He sighed. “Something, simple.” He gave a small smile. “A simple black jacket, perhaps a design on the back of it, simple dark blue pants, and a plain red shirt.”

“That’s possible.” Rarity said. “Who would they be for?” she asked.

“Myself.” He replied.

“Oh.” Rarity stopped for a moment. “Forgive me that just seems… mundane for your usual style.” she said.

“As said. It seems like an old memory now, but it was something I could remember still.” He sighed. “I didn’t use to dress like this, but now it seems it’s all I have.”

“I suppose I understand.” she said. “Sometimes it’s easier to have something to dress down in.” she noted.

“Certainly.” He said in a low voice, his eyes drifting around the town.

“Is something wrong?” she asked.

“I…” He paused. “I guess I’m thinking on the past. My mind has been drifting between my memories and I guess everything must catch up at some point.”

“Has Princess Luna or Twilight been able to do anything about your sleeping problem?” Rarity asked.

He laughed a bit in response. “There was an offer of a spell, but I don’t know if I will go for it.” He shrugged. “It would be nice, not needing sleep, but I like the time of peace that I get from it, time to collect my thoughts, perhaps thinks of things.” He smiled a little as he looked at her. “You know what I mean?”

“Some of the greatest pieces I’ve made have come to me in my sleep.” She smiled.

He simply smiled in response as the arrived at her home and place of business. “It seems we have arrived.” He looked to her again. “I guess this is where we part…”

“Goodnight, Lord Hammer Strike” she bowed her head a little before her horn ignited opening the door.

“Goodnight, Miss Rarity. Sleep well.” He replied as he turned to leave. As soon as he turned fully out of sight, his expression lowered.


Pensword blinked as he looked out over the sky as the sun was setting as he looked at Moonshade. “Uh, we are standing on the only cloud in the sky. You mentioned teaching me a little weather control refresher, am I correct?”

“Yes.” Moonshade said. “But I figured we’d work on your flying a little first.” she said

“Ah, it was that bad getting up here?” he asked looking down to the ground below. “To be honest the only times I did fly was to get to places fast, and engage in combat, most of the time it’s a blur.”

“Well tonight you learn to fly for the sake of it.” And with that, she bucked the cloud under them into non-existence.

With an almost eep like sound he started to fall from the ground and without meaning to or on some baser level that might be tied to instincts being kicked in for real. He opened his wings in panic and started to flap before he found that, he was slowing down and another thought hit him with a got to try that mentality, he stopped flapping and decided to just glide a little to the ground as he looked around and for once, with no arrows or swords or even armor around him, he was able to drink in the sights and he for a moment let his facade crack. “I, I am flying, this, humanity dreamt of this, and…” He trailed off with a very, very goofy grin on his muzzle.

“And?” She grinned at him as she kept up with him with an almost lazy glide.

“I, I don’t know, the wind, the move..” he paused and blinked as he found himself angling his wings and he landed with a fast trot before he started to beat his wings faster and he was back into the air and he rose as he found the sun was now setting. “I, I am flying, I, this is…” He smiled a little like a child. “I am actually flying under my own power and, just look out there, no noisy engines no gas fumes, and no glass, I am, just here, part of the air, part of nature, that is so cool.”

“It occurred to me earlier you’ve never had the opportunity to simply fly.” Moonshade noted. “Most pegasus and thestral foals are encouraged to fly as much as possible once they get off the ground.”

“Let me guess, all the walking we were doing to and from the fort tipped you off?” he chuckled as he began to mimic Moonshade moving his eyes around to keep himself, it reminded him of driving, even using the ears to make sure nothing was coming up from behind him. “I, Yeah, being in a war can give little time to fly, and…” he paused. “I am guessing you want to fly to destinations now?”

“Yeah, it is faster, you can fly over the buildings and avoid any road work or blocked roads.” She smirked. “In the air you can go above or below ponies if you need to get by.” She demonstrated that by flying a circle around him, only going around his barrel instead showing off flying both below and above him.

“Oh wow.” He muttered and he blinked. “I am behind the curve, I, I guess I should start practicing more if ponies look up to me, any… stories of my flight in the past?”

“Some Ponies called you ‘The Cleaving Wind.’ for the razor edges of your feathers allowed you to fall enemies simply by flying past them” she noted.

It actually took a moment before Pensword’s eyes widened and he actually dropped a little before regaining the lost altitude. “The Wing Blades.” He whispered. He began to laugh. “That, that makes sense.” he shook his head in shock at, at a tech that they contaminated the past with.

“The pegasi didn’t figure that out tell five hundred years later.” She explained. “Thestral versions have only been out for the last fifty years.” she replied with a laugh. “How did you get them? Brought a pair back with you?”

“Uh, actually, no. Lord, look he his my friend and you and I are what I hope is friends, between you and I, I think he wouldn’t mind us just calling him by his name without any titles.” Pensword huffed before starting again. “Hammer Strike made them along with my armor and his armor, and Grif’s armor and weapon, all in three days.” He shook his head. “I know it sounds far fetched but I saw it with my own eyes.”

“So in a sense you inspired the weapon that’s design was used to build your weapon?” she raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah, Stable time loop, at least I think it created it, which, oh great, now I am trying to think if me landing in equestria and becoming a pegasus was already in stone or not.” He shook his head as he focused back on the air. “This is why I do not like time travel and is something I do not even want to think about.” Pensword growled. “I, really dislike time travel and time paradoxes. It makes my head hurt and I just wrote stories about time travel.”

“Should we be heading back?” Moonshade asked. “The others might be back by now.”

Pensword only blinked and shook his head. “Not till after moonrise, I, I would like to see this happen, from the air, and.” he shook his head. ‘Been here for over two months maybe more going by the old earth calendar and I cannot get over the fact that the moon and sun rise and set in the same horizon… how does that even work?” He muttered as he found another cloud closer to town where he rested from the flying and gliding and just looked at the horizon, but not at the sun. “I like the moon a little better than the sun, easier to look at on the eyes.” he finished with a smirk as Moonshade landed next to him.

“I suppose I’ve never thought about it.” she admitted.

Pensword only smiled and chuckled lightly as they watched it rise into the air majestically as night fell upon the land. Pensword took a deep breath of the air. “I guess we should be heading back now. Thank you for getting me into the air just for the fun of it.”

“Well, I felt it was in there.” She poked his head with her bat wing. “It just needed to be woken up in something that was not life threatening. The better you are here in relaxed time, you’ll be better when you need to fight, to protect those around you.”

Pensword only nodded his head. “Very smart words, words I will do my best to remember.” He opened his wing and jumped from the cloud and a second later moonshade followed suit and pulled up beside him. “I got a question for you,” Pensword started again as he could see they were a ways from the Tavern. “Can you tell me more about this mythical wife I had?” She could tell from his tone of voice that it was something that he found amusing for some reason that she could not tell why. She also picked up a note of disbelief that he would marry in the past.

“Her name was Lunar Fang.” Moonshade said. “One of the first thestral mares in the military, legends say she was fierce in a fight and your devotion to Lunar Fang was unshakable.”

“Hold on, First thestral… mares? So, males were under Luna’s oath till Lunar Fang showed up?” He asked as they started to pass over the outskirts of the town, needing to fly all the way across town to get to the Tavern. He chuckled however as something clicked into his mind. “Whoever I marry, I would be devoted to her even into the afterlife. From the sounds of it, the two of us were two military ponies.” he stopped and found himself hovering a little like Rainbow Dash. “Heavens above… the foals of such a coupling… Tatarus would be shaken forever.” He had noticed that Moonshade was feeling a little uncomfortable with answering the question so, he tried a little silly act to cheer her up and to break up the conversation. They were nearing the Town Hall now that he was flying again after his momentary hover.

“I wouldn’t know, you died and Lunar Fang vanished from history.” Moonshade replied somberly.

Pensword only nodded his head, “Well, I did not die, which means vanishing or dying with it comes to any one of us three, and I hope those connected to us, might be overrated.” He smiled as they saw the Tavern’s roof, it was Moonshade who had to direct his attention to it. Which caused him to laugh a little. ‘Great, I get to learn buildings by how their roof looks, how many, I wonder what my teachers back home would think on that. Learning to navigate with wings and by the shape of the roof.” He was still chuckling as they landed and walked inside to see that at least to them, they were just behind Grif who was walking towards the stairs. He smirked as he just walked up to his left side. “Good evening Grif, seen Lord Hammer Strike?” He paused and blinked. “I cannot break that habit yet.”

Moonshade only smiled and started to head to the stairs. “Good night, I think I shall let you all open your gifts in your rooms.” She only got a few more steps to the stairs only to have Pensword actually dart through the air and land on the stairs in front of her.

“Really? I did get you a gift, and I was hoping you could stay and join us a little at least.” Pensword only tilted his head a little. “Still, I can understand if you need to sleep we all had a long day and you have been up a bit longer then most thestrals today I think.”

Moonshade only laughed. “Yeah, usually tonight is when we celebrate Hearth Warming Day events, with the Eve being gifts and tonight being eating and feasting, maybe next year I can show you how Thestrals celebrate, seeing how we were the natives to these lands and the Ponies came to settle after the Wendigo's forced them out of their old homes.”

“Ooh, that’s how thestrals fit into the mix.” Grif said.

It was at that moment that the soft sounds of hooves hitting the floor could be heard, Hammer Strike was walking up to the tavern, before they could get a look at his expression he shifted to a smile. “Ah, Hello.”

“Hey,” Pensword replied and smiled, “So… You think we can have our own little gift events before bed?” He paused and looked to Moonshade. “Err, is it bad luck or bad form to not open your gifts on Hearth Warming Day?”

Hammer only shrugged in response. “Perhaps, you never know.”

“Where did you get that idea?” She asked.

“I don’t know, I just over think things at times. Wondering all the different angles of a situation. But if you asked that question, it really is like earth gift giving of the western cultures, in that it is a gift and nothing more.” He chuckled a little and shook his head . “Still crazy ideas none the less.” Pensword smiled and looked at his friends. “Shall we head on up?” He looked up to the ceiling and their rooms.

“Lets get this done.” Grif nodded.

“Yeah, getting late and not sure what tomorrow will hold,” Pensword replied. “Onwards and upwards I say.” He started to walk towards the stairs and the rooms.

Grif entered his room retrieving his gifts before moving to Hammer Strike’s room.

Pensword quickly gathered his own gifts and soon all found ponies, or three ponies and a griffon were settled in Hammer Strikes’ room with a pile of gifts all ready to be opened.

“So, who goes first?” Hammer Strike hummed in question.

“Grif,” Pensword replied with a chuckle. “I vote for Grif.”

“I’ll second that.” Hammer said with a shrug.

Moonshade just looked around. “I, abstain?” She asked as if the word was foreign to her lips. “I don’t want to get involved in some shouting match.”

Grif handed Matthew a large black stained wooden case. “Here, me and Storm Hammer worked hard on this.”

Pensword blinked but he slowly took the black stained box and opened it with the metal latches, he had gotten better at using his wings to do things that hands once did.

Inside the case lay what seemed to be a mix of a crossbow and a sniper rifle. It possessed two bows set in a cross over a strong piece of reinforced oak. The inside had been hollowed out to form a long circular tube and crafted with great care while somehow still retaining most of it's strength. The tube, Matthew could see, carried on a bit past where the square shaped stock and the dual bows ended. Two retractable legs where clipped at the end of the barrel that would if needed allow him to stabilize the crossbow on a flat surface. A stock had been carefully crafted from wood and leather and reinforced with bits of steel, Matthew could make out that it had been made removable. A slot in the handle that almost seemed to be made for some kind of magazine, of which three currently three sitting in designated slots in the case. Each filled with bolts that were fletched with familiar black feathers. also in the case sat what resembled the long range scope of a rifle, the device was longer and somewhat larger to account for the necessary clamps to attach it to the crossbow. Where the twin corded high tension wire's met was a steel rounded piece that was shaped so it could maneuver within the tube easily but large enough to be stopped by the steel gate that had a hole just big enough for the bolt, jutting outside the barrel in a slit from this piece was a polished steel handle that made Matthew realise this was a bolt action crossbow. The trigger had been thoughtfully crafted large enough for a hoof to fit inside and thin enough for a wing to pull. A classic safety lock sat just behind the trigger.

Pensword just looked on in shock and awe as he slowly picked up the interesting piece of equipment and he smiled as he saw a sight, and so he lifted it up and pointed at the wall in front of him and smiled as he looked down the sight then he engaged the safety and started to poke around the actually weapon. It looked liked he might actually want to look at it more, but Moonshade knowing the time and the stack of presents only smiled and put a wing on his wing.

“Now, you can look at that weapon later. Grif needs to continue I think.” Moonshade paused. “Or did I miss something in that I thought he was going to be opening up his gifts?”

“So whats first?” Grif asked.

“How about I give you mine?” Hammer Strike said as he reached inside his coat.

“Okay.” Grif said. “I wonder what this will be?”

After a second he pulled out something very familiar to Grif. “Took a bit to get the upgrades, but there we go.” He held out the object to Grif.

Grif took the modified flintlock pistol in his talons. The barrel had been lengthened allowing for a more precise shot. Grif ran a talon down it admiringly. Beneath the barrel a long stiletto blade had been tacked on and tuck out menacingly giving the gun a an overall intimidating appearance. “This is awesome!” Grif smiled as he examined the pistole closely, it was still the same save for the major changes and a small gold plate screwed onto the right side of the handle it was currently blank indicating the only thing truly missing from this weapon now was a name. “I can’t wait to try it out on the range.” he said. “Thanks Hammer Strike.”

“No problemo.” Hammer Strike muttered in response.

Pensword smiled and looked around. “Now, I had to get this done by one of the local shops, and you do not believe how many scraps I have laying around in my room.” Pensword laughed. ‘But I wanted this perfect, now I know not what flag really is used by the people of Pokke, as it seems more to be just personal crests so I got something that you might find at home if you ever visited the North American Continent.”

He handed overed a cloth wrapped item, that felt more like a shirt in style, yet it was a square. “Sorry for the shape, neither I, nor the guy making it knew the proper way of folding it.” This hopefully picked Grif’s interest as he opened the flag on the cloth container.

“Hmm…” The gryphon unfolded it gently, the shape that was revealed caused a small wave of nostalgia and homesickness to run through him as he traced the red maple leaf. “This is, this is great. Thanks Pensword.” he smiled as he carefully folded it back up.

“Your welcome… I just thought it would be nice to have a few physical,” He trailed off as he just smiled. “Glad you like it.”

Grif went through the rest of his gifts relatively quickly. Canned apple pie filling from Applejack, a fruitcake from Rainbow Dash, which he then stated he knew what to get her for her birthday. A book on gryphon culture from Twilight. Specialized wood based feed for Sylvio, a book on pranks written by Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash, from Pinkie.

Rarity’s gift managed to stop him as he opened the large package to reveal to rather intricately designed robes. “Where did she find out about these?” He asked as he unrolled the white robe out. a small cape adorned the right shoulder and the hood had an added tip resembling a beak of a predatory bird. Above the chest and shoulders where hardened pieces of leather and the belt had a red sash connected by a familiar looking belt buckle. “Shawn, what did you do?” He looked at Hammer Strike.

Hammer Strike only had a smirk on his face as he sat back in his chair, whistling innocently. “No idea what you’re talking about.” He gave a smile.

The Doctor’s gifts strangely enough was a feather made of some kind of metal not even Shawn could name, on touch the metal reacted almost like a real feather, a card attached to it explained that a metal feather was considered a mark of respect amongst the gryphons and to place it under one of his wings and it would do the rest. Grif did so only to be assaulted by a flash of burning pain for a moment before it vanished as suddenly as it had appeared. Opening his wings to look he found the feather had somehow attached itself into one of the feather roots. “How? What?” he looked at his friends.

“Doctor?” He heard Hammer ask.

With a sigh of resignation Grif turned to Derpys gift. A box of chocolate muffins greeted him and he smiled. “Yummy” he laughed. “And that seems to be everything.” He noted looking around.

Pensword only smiled and then smirked. “Okay Hammer Strike.” he laughed at the slight winch that Moonshade gave at the casual remarked. “You can go next, is that acceptable for you?”

“If you want, I don’t mind if you go yourself.” Hammer Strike replied and Grif only shook his head.

Moonshade looked at the two. “Okay, I vote for Hammer Strike as well, I will not sit and watch ten minutes of you going back and forth.” She sighed but one could see a smirk as she found the situation both funny and refreshing coming from a Noble. She paused and then turned to glare at Pensword. “Now look what you made me do, I dropped a noble’s title.”

“And I don’t mind that in the slightest.” Hammer replied reaching for one of the gifts. “Actually, it’s refreshing to not hear the lord title.” He sighed a little. “Kinda getting tired of it.”

He chuckled a little at the rather shocked look on Moonshade’s muzzle and face as he turned to his gift, as she finally spoke. “You are nothing like the nobles in Canterlot.”

“I would hope not.” He chuckled. “I prefer to be myself.” He said as he opened Twilights gift, which was a book explaining Noble Traditions. “Well then… Seems like some want me to act more like a noble. Or just random thought for a gift.” He chuckled.

Pensword actually added something to it. “What if she wants this to be a foundation, a bunch of suggestions like Pirate laws? Or at least, it might let you be able to avoid major messes at least?”

“Or you could get a few laughs?” Grif asked.

“As long as it doesn’t suggest the royal we.” Hammer chuckled reaching for the next gift, this one from Pinkie, which was another book, though this one was a joke book with a small note attached telling him to try a couple, might make him smile more. “Hah.” He smirked after reading it, a brow raised in a questioning manner as he showed the others the book.

“Oh  that is going to be fun to hear you say a joke, as you mostly do sarcasm.” Pensword muttered with a chuckle of his own.

“Wow, you certainly nailed me there.” Hammer replied in a sarcastic tone, and a smirk. He shook his head as he reached for Rainbow Dash’s gift, which was another Fruitcake.

“Wonderful, I could use this as a good paperweight, or a brick, or attach it to a string and swing it around.” He chuckled, showing he was joking around.

“These are the perfect gift.” Grif said. “You can just keep giving them away.”

Hammer chuckled a little louder. “I should try to melt this down, it’s by far the toughest material we have.” He laughed a bit afterwards, reaching for the gift from Rarity, which was a set of noble gear, for both forms, human and pony. Which was a set of coats, in a variety of colors, one of them was white with the side color being black, a black vest with a white shirt, and white pants.

“Oh, that is going to be a challenge to keep clean.” He said, looking at the clothes as he put them neatly to the side, grabbing another gift.

“Yeah, then again it might be just for formal ceremonial occasions?” Pensword asked with a raised eyebrow. “Like that one suit you only wear once a year or something?”

“You mean like what this was supposed to be?” He said looking to his blue and gold coat that he was wearing.

“I guess, okay you might want to get more… Everyday clothing to wear or something.” Pensword muttered and shook his own head. “Yeah, seems you got a lot of the formal clothing then everyday clothing.”

“Yeah, I tried that, and the response was, and I quote, ‘that just seems… mundane for your usual style’.” Hammer replied, opening the gift from Fluttershy to reveal a can that had inside, a sack of a special feed for Renati, who was perched in the corner just watching them. With a small opening he put the can off to the side, which Renati flew over to and ate.

He only chuckled pulling out the next one, from the Doctor, which was surprisingly heavy for its size. Opening it up showed it to be a smiths hammer with a note on the side saying that the hammer was made from a special alloy in a special way, in parentheses it said ‘don’t ask’, which would allow it to never break.

He chuckled, holding it up a bit as he took in some of the small details.

Pensword looked to Grif and for once they both seemed to think the same thing as they said one word at the same time. “Mjolnir?” Moonshade only blinked in confusion as the two laughed at each other as Hammer Strike moved to the next gift.

He opened up AJ’s gift next, laughing a bit at their question. It was a can of apple pie filling. “Oh, I so have to use that.” He said pulling over Derpy’s gift, which was bundle of Banana Nut muffins. “Ohohoohoh…” He muttered looking at the muffins. “I’m so eating these in the morning…” Hammer finished as he looked over to Matthew and Taze. “Now that leaves your two gifts.” He chuckled.

“I talked to twilight about finding something incase what happened in the empire happens again.” Grif said handing Hammer Strike a box.

Hammer opened the gift to reveal inside was a gold bracer, on it was two gems, a topaz cut in the shape of the sun and a pearl that currently hummed with a glow.

“It’s kinda a battery.” Grif explained. “The topaz absorbs sunlight and converts it into energy which is stored inside the pearl. Should you need a boost simply tap the pearl four time.” He explained. “But at best it can hold a couple hours worth of energy so it’s not exactly gonna make you the energizer bunny.”

Hammer chuckled a bit. “Imagine me on a energy rush.” He chuckled a bit afterwards.

“That,” Pensword replied with a few blinks of his eyes as he processed the comment. “Would be scary and yet very fun to watch.” He muttered. “You are always so reserved and never, well you are like Spock, and,” he paused a little and shivered as he bristled his feathers. “I am scared a little now thinking about that.”

Hammer only gave a dark smile in return, with a small chuckle. “One day perhaps. But thank you Grif.”

Pensword only smiled a little. “I decided to get you something based on a story you once told me.” He replied as he put the box in front of both Shawn and Hammer Strike. “Be careful, you might need a little light.”

Hammer only raised a brow as he opened the gift to reveal a set of goggles, made with a bronze rim, that seemed very familiar to him. “Wait a minute…” He said pulling up the goggles and turned them towards Grif as he tapped the top of them, resulting in light blaring from the front of lenses.

“My eye’s!” The gryphon shouted trying to cover his now burning retna’s.

Hammer tapped the top of the goggles and the light shut off. “The goggles of Rick Fuoco….” He turned the lenses and watched them darken. “Oh my goodness…” He was speechless as he looked to Pensword. “Thank you.”

“You are welcome, it is nice having so many minds around. You never know what you can put together from different folks expertise.” He chuckled a little as he blinked and realized they were all looking at him. “Oh, my turn now is it?”

“Certainly.” Hammer said as he turned the gem on his bracelet to turn back to his human form.

This caused Moonshade to blinked in confusion and shock. “I, They, I did not know the Princesses could do that with magic and artifacts.” She laughed a little.

Pensword only raised a wing in confusion. “Uh, what? I can see you have a portable means of switching so that is good to know.” He did his best to keep smiling and not think back to how he was only alive because he was a Pegasus.

Pensword upon seeing that Shawn was not going to say anything moved to the first gift in his reach. “Applejack.” He read from the card and opened it to find another jar of apple pie filling. “I know what we are going to be making sometime for dessert.” He replied with a joke as he placed the jar off to the side.

He chuckled as he placed the rather mutilated wrapping paper off to the side as he still did not have perfect control over his limbs so he could not save the wrapping paper like he did at his birthday party. He moved to the next gift and found yet another item. “Fruitcake as well.” he replied with a laugh. “So, she got all of us fruitcakes, could this be a pun on just how she thinks about us being a bunch of Fruitcakes?” he laughed and shook his head as he moved to the next gift.

“We all have the almighty weapons, that smell very fruity.” Shawn chuckled.

“By the power of fruitcake!” Grif held up his fruitcake. “I have the power!!!!!”

Moonshade only looked at the three and she face hoofed. “The one day anypony can act like fools and you really go all out.”

“Thank you very much.” Pensword replied in a fake Elvis impersonation. He laughed as it did caused her to laugh and smack him with a wing.

“I have no clue what that was suppose to mean but just get on with it.” She growled at him. Pensword still laughing only moved to the next gift in his pile. Which happened to be from Fluttershy and it turned out to be a type of kibble for Rommel. Moonshade thankfully took it. “I shall deliver it to the barracks tomorrow. Sorry you lost your pet to the troops.”

“If anything he is going to be spoiled…” he blinked and groaned as he started to laugh. “Heaven help us if we ever get a weapon cart and he gets into it.” He started to laugh wondering if his friends would get it.

“Rommel would take them all on.” Shawn said shaking his head. “And by chance win.”

Pensword sighed, before laughing a little loudly at the thought as well as shaking his head. “We might need another pet Patton to keep the two in check.” He sighed before moving to pick up another one, this one wrapped in bright pink paper.

He was curious as it was small but what he found inside was something that broke him up laughing loudly as he quickly put on the items and put on in his mouth. “I do say, One morning I shot an elephant in my pajamas. How he got into my pajamas I'll never know.” he smiled as he wiggled his eyebrows and took out the fake cigar and smiled.

“Oh goodness.” Shawn said, putting a hand on his forehead.

“Classic.” Grif laughed.

Moonshade only looked at the group and shook her head. “Human humor, it makes no sense.” She sighed and did began to laugh as Pensword made a few faces before taking off the marx glasses and cigar and moved to another box.  Rather a rather large box.

Once opened he found that it was a wrapped bookcase with books already in it.  He blinked as he pulled out one of the books. “History of the Pegasus Warrior, Volume seven.” he blinked and saw it was a two shelved case and looked at the last number. “Fourteen?” He blinked and looked up at Grif, Shawn, and Moonshade. “I got a lot of reading to do.” he paused and looked at the first book. “I have a feeling that this might go past Hurricane a bit.”

He blinked as he pulled another package towards him. “Oh, Tardis blue.” He muttered as he blinked and laughed. “From the Doctor,” he spoke as he saw the tag and opened it in shock. “OH wow… enough oranges for us all to have two each.” he paused as he found a note with the oranges. He read it before smiling sadly. “I miss Christmas as well.” He muttered as he slowly placed the note to the side and moved to another gift.

He smiled a little. The package was light grey and he smiled. “Oh, I know who this is, Derpy.” He slowly opened it up and blinked in shock. “Oh wow, these smell wonderful, I, I have no clue what they are.” he paused and turned to the note. “Oh, these are a mix of Pegasus Muffins with secret ingredients, and blueberry muffins.”

“From Rarity…” he paused and blinked before he opened up the box, as he looked at the contents. “Oh, she finished it. My officer uniform to wear, when armor may not be the best choice for a ceremony.”

Moonshade only chuckled. “Finally you are learning that armor does not need to be worn all the time.

“Yeah, you don’t need armor all the time… Just perhaps a weapon, or two, or three, just in case.” Shawn chuckled lightly.

“And a knife in the boot.” Grif added.

Pensword actually chuckled. “That makes sense, and yeah, we appear to be always well armed.” He looked at Moonshade. “I think we need to start arming our friend here now.”

Moonshade blinked in shock and looked back and forth. “Weapons? I do not see any weapons on any of you.”

Pensword only smiled. “I left them in my room, I feel safe, but,” he held up a hoof. “I have four of these to fight.”

Shawn only pulled open his coat to reveal the two swords at his hip, which for some reason didn’t stand out, and a small handle of a knife in one of the inside pockets. “Better safe than sorry…” He muttered. “Better safe than sorry.”

Grif took an orange and spun it gently in his talon as he placed a claw against it slowly going downwards. The skin peeled off the flesh on it’s own accord. “I have knives growing out of my hands.”

Moonshade only shook her head. “Of course,” She made a face. “I had a slight hiccup in the mental memories.”

“A brain short.” Pensword replied with a chuckle and smiled a little. “We all have had those and they can happen at any moment in time.”

“I guess it’s time for my gift?” Shawn questioned.

Moonshade only smiled and nodded her head. “It would appear so milord.” She replied with a nod of her head.

Shawn stood up from his seat and walked over to one of the back tables in the room that had a wooden case. With a click, he popped open the locks and opened the case. “Pensword. I spent my time thinking on this gift. Something that I feel you might use, but in certain ways.” He pulled an object out of the container but kept it hidden from sight as he stood still. “For how things have become, how they will be, and where you are now, you are missing something.” He turned to reveal what was in his hands, a straight sword. The blade was made with iron, in which had been cleaned and even polished to a gleam. The handguard of it was made from what looked like gold, but with a darker tint to it. On it was a flowing design, swirling around, connected to each line. The pommel was made out of the same material as the guard.

“Pensword, there is something that your rank needs. Something to show it.” He said as he walked forward towards Pensword.

Pensword stood tall and kept his eyes straight in a Pony form of Attention as he waited for the next events. He did not speak and did not even do much blinking. He just stood their, breath while comfortable, and breathe lightly.

Moonshade just smiled and smirked looking forward to the first formal parade where she could wear her own sword of station from Luna. She was also while silent, inside a small filly mind construct was cheering for joy at seeing a friend get one of the badges of his station as a personal captain of the guard for one of the noble houses of Equestria.

Grif drew his own swords in a warriors salute to his friend. His right sword held vertically in front of his beak with his left sword crossing it horizontally.

Shawn stopped in front of Pensword. “Pensword, if you kindly kneel.”

Pensword blinked and slowly nodded his head, Shawn who had known the man who was in pony form for a time and even spoken to in person for a weekend last year slowly kneeled, something that showed both swallowing of pride, as well as showing the deep respect he had for his friend. He remained silent and yet Shawn knew so much would be racing through his mind.

“Now, I know you do not enjoy doing stuff like this, but it must be.” He said as he gripped the blade in his right hand. “You have gone through much, as we all have, but you are taking a roll that is not an easy one to fill.” He said as he tapped the blade onto Pensword’s right shoulder. “With this, I shall proclaim, you are not just Pensword, you are Captain Pensword, of the Strike house.” He continued as he tapped the blade against his right. “Rise Captain, and take your blade.” He finished as he put the blade back into both of his hands, one near the grip and the other holding the flat part of the blade, as he held it forward in a slight bow.

Pensword stood up and took the sword before sitting down and rose the sword to be blade edge facing his nose before twisting the sword so that the flate of the blade now faced his nose. After the salute was finished he moved and smiled a little. “Moonshade. Would you be kind enough to buckle the blade’s sheath to my belt for the moment?” He asked with a small chuckled. He noticed that the sheath was built to allow quadruped motion without the tip of the sheath dragging in the dirt. He looked to his friend where an entire conversation occurred between just eyesight.

Moonshade only nodded and with the manner of a professional officer in Luna’s cadre she helped place the sheath to Penswords side, after which Pensword guided the sword home and made sure it would remain secure. Moonshade turned and smiled to the group. “If you would excuse me.”

Pensword only shook his his head and held up a wing. “Not so fast. I have a gift for you. I think you would enjoy this gift.” He moved to his belly and pulled from under the table as small box which was wrapped in his rather poorly done style and he held it to her. “I hope you enjoy it.”

“Oh what is this?” Moonshade asked as she took the box and carefully unwrapped it.

Inside the box was a small cloth bag that when she picked it up, she heard a few jingles of metal against metal. She looked at Pensword with a raised eyebrow before opening the sack and onto the table she gently shook out ten coins of different sizes.

“Coins?” She asked as she picked one up to examine it. her eye’s widened as she made out the figure. “These are lunar coins form before Nightmare Moon.” She said with a gasp.

“Amazing what you end up gathering from a few bets and handling the finances of the Royal Ponies of the Crystal Empire.” he closed his eyes. “The bet was it seemed between a few of the guards that they would find the base I was in charge of in the midst of civil unrest or something. Luna made sure the winnings went to me. That is a complete collection of every denomination from that time period and I thought you,” Moonshade placed a leather wing tip over his muzzle.

“You can stop stammering, no need to explain to me, it was very well thought out, so just stop talking.” She lowered her wing after Pensword only nodded his head to agree to that. Needless to say both of them blushed at the chuckle that escaped Grif’s beak and all Shawn did was to raise an eyebrow at the display.

“Uh, Shawn can you come back to my room? I want to check and see where I’ll need to modify my holster.” Grif said.

Shawn turned his gaze towards Grif before giving a nod, following him out the door.

Moonshade and Pensword only worked to gather up his gifts and the two overheard his comment to her. “When the roof is on I am moving into the barracks, it was okay when I was human, but as I keep on saying, I am a pony now…” He shook his head as he tapered off and while the two moved to place the gifts away in his room. Shawn and Grif moved to Grif slash Taze’s room.

The Moment Grif closed the door as they entered and rolled his eye’s. “We need to get those two together.” he said.

“Things will work on by itself. Trying to force things could make things worse.” Shawn replied.

“And waiting well leave them both old and grizzled before either of them makes a move.” Grif said.

“Having both of us do this isn’t a good idea, so I wish you the best of luck.” Shawn whispered back. “I was never good with this kind of thing.” He chuckled.

“Very well.” Grif said. “But keep it quiet.” Grif said.

“We’ll see.” Shawn smirked in a dark manner.

“Well, anyway, we’d better get back.” Grif said.

“Walked out for about two minutes. Wow we can modify a holster quickly.” Shawn smirked as he replied.

“I just need to make it longer and add a sheath for the blade, not that difficult.” Grif rolled his eye’s.

“Of course, it’s freakin simple.” Shawn said with a flat expression. “I already asked Steel to work on it in his free time.”

“You ok?” Grif asked “You seem a bit moody all of a sudden.”

“Remember how I went three days without sleep in the Crystal Empire?” He replied

“Kinda hard to forget.” Grif said.

“Yeah. Something like that.” Shawn nodded. “Materials weren’t that easy to find this time around...”

“Am I going to have to knock you out or something?” Grif asked. “This is seriously becoming a thing with you.”

“Oh no, I am heading to bed after this. Specifically when they get out of my room.”

Without another word Grif made his way to Shawn’s room and opened the door. Grabbing his stuff he looked to them. “Come on guys time to go, Shawn promised he was going to actually get some sleep.”

Pensword actually poked his head out from his room, “Really?” he ducked back in and Moonshade actually trotted out and looked behind her.

“Fine, fine,” She sighed and looked at the group. “I have been asked to make sure he does not get interrupted during your rest. So you will be getting sleep and no interruptions, the guards will make sure of that milord.” She was dressed in her Lunar Guard armor and had a small short sword with her for use in case she had to use it.

“Night everyone.” Grif said before entering his room.

Shawn stretched from where he stood. “G’night. Should I be needed, tell me later to return to the past or something.” He mumbled everything after G’night.

Moonshade only gave a slight salute one that he could tell was a slight joke. “As you wish milord.” She replied to the mumble. “Now get some sleep, I can watch both rooms from out here for the night. I am going to crash when Pensword gets up in the morning.”

“Good, good.” Shawn said as he walked into his room. Moments after his door closed a thud was heard as well as the squeaking of bed springs.


As Moonshade slowly patrolled the hallway, she turned around a corner and walked past another thestral, ignoring the figure as she kept on moving along the patrol path she had set up. She turned around and when she past the Thestral again, the figure started to follow matching step by step, yet Moonshade just ignored the other beside her. After a third past the figure moved to step into her view and the figure changed from Thestral to another being.

“How have things been major?” A familiar voice asked as Princess Luna stepped into Moonshades view.

“Most interesting, seems that Lord Shawn and Lord Hammer Strike are no longer hiding that they are the same, and he is asleep at the moment. Grif is currently rooming in Taze’s room meaning that they are both the same situation of no longer hiding that fact from me, and Pensword, had another bout of slight depression over his form but he is getting better.” She paused as they both turned to walk back up the hallway. “How is the work in returning him to human? Is that even possible?”

Luna sighed. “Slowly.” She explained. “The only way we could return him to human at this moment would be to heal him the moment he is human again, and even Phoenix tears are not that fast.” Luna answered

Moonshade only nodded. “I am sorry to hear that.” She muttered as her voice hitched a little. “Also, I hope you are holding off on the next batch of recruits, we are trying to get to the Everfree first. Also, any new cadets as Pensword likes to call them being added to the next batch?”

“Not so much as of yet, we have decided to leave the next recruitment process for the end of the holidays.” The lunar princess explained.

“Understood your highness.” Moonshade replied with a nod of her head. “Good news on the rehabilitation, it is going well, as you might have saw, the local guard unit is now running a logging company, a building company and Pensword has outright asked to create within the ranks, an Engineer company, Signal company, as well as a Transportation company on top of the infantry we have at the moment. Those should be on both desks tomorrow or the next day your Highness.”

“Very good.” Luna nodded. “I trust you shall be ready to move as soon as the snow is dealt with?”

“We shall be your Highness, most of the equipment is being packed up starting tomorrow and will be living on more limited events. Also we will be crafting the paperwork to turn the fort over to Ponyville for their own use of whatever it that they want to use it for.” She did not know that as they kept on walking past the rooms she would turn an ear toward Pensword’s room as if checking to make sure he was still breathing. It seemed she was still spooked about something.

“Is something wrong wrong?” Princess Luna asked with concern as she looked to the door before looking back to Moonshade.

“I am getting use to silence when I had gotten use hearing the sounds of his breath and clicking of his valves, and now, a normal heart rhythm, What is good is he is not crying in his sleep this time.”

“You realise it is entirely plausible he will never be able to return to his true form while he is on Equestria yes?” Luna asked

“I, yes, and that concerns me.” She admitted. “He,” She paused and took a deep breath. “You know how I looked up to Pensword, and now, here I am talking to my idol, my hero. It hurts to even see him hurt.” She sighed. “I, I want him to be happy.” She looked to Luna and blinked a little. “Are you doing one of your dream therapy sessions on me?” The question was actually rather honest and to the point.

Unknown to Moonshade this pleased Princess Luna, hearing the question coming from one of her own guards. They continued to walk back and forth guarding the rooms and the access points to higher up in the building.

“You would need to be asleep for that.” Luna admitted. ”You know Moonshade, I once met Lunar Fang.” Luna told her.

For the first time all night Moonshade missed a step. “You, so he does get marry. That means  that some of that cross species barrier that I heard Shawn speak about once will slowly fade?” She asked, unsure of how to feel at the moment.

“I can’t tell you everything.” Luna said. “That would be...spoilers.” Luna grinned. “But I want you to know things are not always cut and dry, keep following your heart Major, it may surprise you”

“Of course Princess Luna, also thank you for the weekly check in, I think the group is going to enjoy taming the forest, from what I have seen of the humans and Pensword’s own actions. They are meant to tame the wild and cultivate it to their whims… Humans, the entire idea of them looking at the Everfree forest and think, next challenge please. One of them is even taming a Timber Wolf pup.” She shook her head as she put to words what she had been observing.

“Well unfortunately I have many more duties to attend to, look to your left, and it’s time to wake up major.” Luna said as the world around them melted away.

Major Moonshade blinked and look to the left in confusion and horror at having fallen asleep at her post. Her last words that Luna heard was a slight curse and the words “Not Good.” The world then fully melted and Moonshade woke up.

She woke up to find herself on the mattress that had been her bed since arriving in Ponyville, she saw first that Pensword was gone and she had a blanket over her, a note was in front of her.

I took Second watch, you need to not push yourself so much, going so long for hearth warming.
                Pensword

She only stared at the message before she remembered the words from Luna and so she turned her head to the left. Sitting at the majors left was a fairly large box wrapped in crescent moon wrapping paper. Moonshade carefully unwrapped the box and opened it. Inside was a scroll and a foot long serrated dagger, the entire thing was cast in blue metal and a thestral eye was engraved on the center of the cross hilt. the scroll unfurled to read:

Dear major,

This dagger was based on the dagger that belonged to Lunar Fang, something tells me you may be needing it very soon.

HRH Princess Luna of Equestria.

Moonshade only looked at the dagger and blinked before remembering that this design while old was still an accepted addition to the Lunar Guard uniform and so she moved to stand up to find that she had slept in her armor as well. She smiled a little. “A gentlecolt, or one who could not bring himself to remove the armor of the opposite gender soldier.” She smiled as she placed the dagger to her left side so as to reach it with her right hoof. She moved to a mirror in the bathroom and looked at herself a little with a smile, it complimented the armor nicely she thought to herself. “She is being cryptic again.” She sighed and walked out of the bathroom and into the hallway to find Pensword still patrolling the hallway.

“Good Morning Human.” She muttered as she turned towards the stairs to the lobby. Still she was able to catch the smile the came to Pensword’s face.

“Morning Thestral.” He returned with a chuckle. “Thank you for keeping that the same.” He muttered as he moved to start another patrol. Only to stop as they heard some sounds of metal clanking downstairs and a few guards showed up, rather two white coat stallions in gold armor.

They both paused and stared as they seemed frozen. The one of the left actually coughed a little into a hoof. “We have been asked by Princess Celestia to become part of your cadre, as well as to let you eat breakfast we can both take up guarding the noble’s quarters.”

Pensword only looked at them and actually saw what he thought might be a little fear. He cleared his throat. “Very well, if you have any problems send one of you to the fort, I have paperwork and overseeing some of the construction, I think we are getting the telegraph equipment in today.”

“Very well sir. You enjoy your morning and don’t worry we shall be still here when you return.” The one of the right this time replied and the two saluted as one. Pensword only saluted in return and the two officers slowly walked down the stairs and into the lobby where Berry was looking at the stairs in a confused look.

Moonshade had an odd look on her muzzle as she walked over to a table and it was Berry herself who came over and got a normal thestral breakfast, being mostly fish and eggs, food with protein. Pensword got the same thing and Berry left, at which point Moonshade said something interesting. “I thought those two were usually around Prince Blueblood. I wonder why they are hiding out here in Ponyville.”

“I agree, I just wish that I got their transfer notices first.” Pensword muttered in annoyance, I rather not always be the last to know I have more guards to look after when they show up at my door.” He paused and chuckled. “Metaphorically speaking of course.” He looked to Moonshade. “I need you to find some requisition forums I might need to request some type of magic construct that acts like dragon fire messaging.”

Moonshade only nodded. “Don’t fret, this is rather simple, there were these issues as well when Luna returned and an entire new part of the guard had to be formed, laws reworked, and chains of command and authority shuffled, I saw that first hoof. So this is normal I think, after all House Strike has been defunct or missing for over a thousand or so years. Give it time, I won’t even put it past them to transfer a dragon scribe to your headquarters for faster delivery of mail and documents. As well as having you send them quickly.”

Pensword only nodded as the food arrived and the two started to eat and talk, not at the same time but still doing one and then the other. After a swallow of some of his food Pensword replied. “I wouldn’t mind that, also I see you have a new addition to your uniform, welcome to the always prepared club.” he chuckled a little as Moonshade also laughed remembering her comments from the night before.

Moonshade looked to the ceiling. “How long this time do you see him sleeping?” She asked as she looked down at Pensword again. “With guards actually keeping the noise down and any visitors at bay. How long?”

“Hopefully all day and night, he needs the sleep.” Pensword muttered after finishing another bite. “He puts himself through a lot and I worry about the health of my friend.” The conversation tapered off a little and the two finished their meal in silence.

“What’s with the guards?” Grifs voice spoke up behind them as he glided down the steps with Sylvio on his back.

Before anyone could say anything Berry just glared at the Griffon. “Please do not glide or fly down the stairs, I rather not have to repair anything from any stunts, not since Scootaloo tried to fly down the stairs and broke two pictures, how she got away without anything worse then a slight bruise on both her forelegs I do not know.” She sighed and smiled sweetly, “What do you want to eat for Breakfast?”

Pensword quickly answered the question asked before Berry’s rant. “I don’t know, just that they are from Canterlot and appear to be here to help with guarding both Lord Shawn and Lord Hammer Strike.”

“And there names are?” Grif asked after placing his order for breakfast as he sat down at their table and gave a little bit of the feed that Fluttershy gifted him to the puppy to keep him occupied at the moment.

“No clue.” Moonshade replied with a wing shrug. “Just that they appeared and I think they know Lord Shawn and Hammer Strike in how… relaxed they reported in.”

Pensword chuckled, “He can have that effect on some at times.” He shook his head and blinked as they all saw it. A slight blue mist of magic as it collected into a ball and then a scroll that plopped thankfully into the middle of the table and not landed in anyones meal.

Berry at this point returned with a breakfast for Grif which was more of a fish flavor dish, “My apologies, we just have fish at the moment, if you want I can try and order in some food for your pallet later on in the week.” As she spoke Pensword had broken the seal and was reading the scroll as a second scroll appeared over the table, this time in a more purple glow, and then landed onto the table.

“Fish is fine Berry.” Grif said. “What's up Pensword?” Grif asked as he took a bite of his food.

“Well,” Pensword replied forgetting about his meal, which to Grif meant it was something rather big as he didn’t usually leave food unattended. “Let me just read you the first letter, and then I can see what that second letter is about.”

To Captain Pensword of the Strike House,

We wish to inform you that due to actions taken by the two guards now under your command it was expedient that they be transferred on the first train to Ponyville, seeing as they worked to undermine a noble’s authority and orders to be carried out on their staff. Please note that you are to either fold them into your command structure or retrain them to be proper house guards.

Sincerly,
         
                HH Prince Shining Armor Former Captain of the Royal Guards

Pensword only looked up and smiled. “Nice to see the old Captain of the Guard still keeping an eye on his men. I don’t envy that job to be honest, and here I am taking on a minor mirror role.”

“Does it seem strange how we seem to keep attracting more ponies to us?” Grif asked.

Pensword looked at Grif and to Moonshade. “It does appear that way, but I just hope it is for our own help and not anypony playing political games with us.” He sighed and reached for the next scroll and blinked. “Oh another seal to add to my memory Collection.” he replied cheerfully as he broke the seal and opened the scroll and frowned a little as he looked at those around the table. “Okay, what do we do with angry letters?” He slowly began to read this letter.

To the most honorable Lord Hammer Strike, Lord of the Everfree, wielder of Master Smithing, As well as Legend of the Empty House.

I do hereby request audience with you for the expedient return of staff and guards who have abandoned their duties and are currently been employed by your hoof. While I understand it is good to hear that your house is now occupied and you are looking for staff, please note that most houses do not look kindly upon hiring of staff who jump ship as the saying goes. I do therefore request an audience not at your temporary abode within the town of Ponyville but here in Canterlot at your earliest convenience, please bring your Captain of your Guard if you have one, Your mercenary Griffon friend. If you wish to bring anypony else, please do so. I do hope to receive a letter stating what time would work for you. Please note that a letter not returned promptly will be taken as an insult and I shall bring this problem to the Princesses personally for a summons.

        Yours humbly, Prince Blueblood XXXI Lord of Upper Canterlot Caverns, Royal Hot Springs, Keeper of the Royal Keys to the Observatory Peak. Honorary Lieutenant in the Expedition Forces,  Living heir to the Principality of Hoofington, Honorary Mayor of Potsdam, Owner of the Sea….

“The last third of the page is every title he has.” Pensword muttered as he looked up at all present. “Even Spelling Bee Champion of sixth grade.” he sighed. “And this is why Americans hate titles.” He muttered.

“Get me a pen and parchment.” Grif grinned.

Moonshade blinked before smiling wondering what he had in mind, she got up and quickly returned as she placed the blank parchment and a quill pen in front of Grif. “Here you are, knock yourself out.”

Dear Prince Blueblood XXXI Lord of Upper Canterlot Caverns, Royal Hot Springs, Keeper of the Royal Keys to the Observatory Peak. blah blah etcetera you're not that impressive.

My Lord Hammer Strike, Lord of Everfree, Wielder of Master Smith, Wielder of the Giant Slayer, Wielder of the Night Cleaver, He Who works his Craft Tirelessly, Hero of the Third Gryphon War, Guardian of the Poor and Distraught, Master of Metals, Lord of the Smith’s Guild, Wielder of the Sacred Hammer, Forger of the Unforgeable, Enemy of Chrysalis, Enemy of Sombra, Friend of Cave Troll’s, Bane of Windigo's, Friend of Starswirl, And sometimes referred to as Lord Hammer Strike the Insanely Awesome, wishes to me to respond to your letter as he is indisposed and frankly really doesn't give a damn.

He will grant you, your audience on the first of never. He farts in your general direction, your mother was a hamster and your father smelled of elderberries. If you write again he has expressed wishes that I should taunt you a second time.

Have a nice day,
Sir Grif Griffin, doesn’t need titles because people actually respect him.

Moonshade blinked. “Well, that is acceptable coming from what he calls a Mercenary Griffon. That should buy your house at least a week.” She laughed a little. “It seems that House Blueblood as underestimated the warriors in House Strike, you fight even on paper.”

“What? I doubt Shawn would object.” Grif shrugged. “Besides, last I checked, if he’s insulted he can challenge me to a duel, me a supposedly incredibly lethal gryphon mercenary to a private duel, with weapons…. Where someone dies, honestly how likely you think thats going to be?”

Pensword laughed behind a wing. “First of Never.” He was trying hard not to laugh. “If he sends another letter, we might have to have Hammer Strike reply or actually have a verbal duel in front of Celestia and Luna as arbitrators.”

Moonshade actually smiled showing her fangs. “I wouldn’t mind seeing that with my two eyes.” She blinked as Pensword only laughed harder. “What? What is it?”

“Just the face you made with your fangs, and I wouldn’t mind, after all you are Luna’s eyes and ears at the moment to see if our crazy training works or not.” He laughed even more as he reread the letter. “Now go away or I shall taunt you a second time.” he paused and tried to make a serious face. “What, is the airspeed velocity of an African Swallow.”

Moonshade only looked at her hero and shook her head. “The books never said anything about how much of a crazy pony you are.” She however was doing her best to hide her smile which was growing wider on her muzzle at how these two ancient warriors were treating this letter.

Pensword only smiled a little. “Well, I need to be collecting that bolt action cross bow, I want to test it. While a good first draft, I leave it to you to create the final draft.” He left the table and started to walk towards the stairs and his room. Moonshade only moved to the base of the stairs and stood guards as Pensword went up the stairs.

Grif only shrugged a little. “Okay.” A moment later after looking over it, he smiled. “Okay, time to find Spike and deliver the message.” He stood up and left the tavern towards Golden Oaks Library.