Extended Holiday
Chp 45: Of Mysteries and Curiosities
Act 5
“Lord Hammer Strike!” Tower Shield charged into the room. “Our troops were surveying the lower levels for needed repairs and they found… something.”
Blast Shield darted his head back to the hallway, then back to his lord. “Something … that might need your attention.” He paused as he realized it was Shawn instead. Surprisingly, he did not react upon seeing the human.
“Well then,” Shawn said, placing the quill down. “Hammer Strike, or me?”
“You.” Blast Shield replied with the same tone of voice. “Now.” he turned to look out the door holding, shaking his spear.
“Considering the fact that I’m never needed and that you just talked twice in a row, what army is coming to attempt to kill us?” Shawn asked.
“Nothing that serious, sir,” Tower said. “We… found something you should see.”
“In other words, something serious.” Shawn shrugged. “Alright, let’s go. Lead the way,” he said, gesturing towards the door.
Blast Shield did not say a word as he moved from the door to the next corner of the hallway keeping a good clear line of sight around them. “We have to move to the lower levels. It’s in a room that has part of the hallways filled by rubble. That place on the opposite side of the gallery.”
“So, how big of a problem is this?” Shawn asked the two shields.
“Currently, small. Potentially, enormous damage and a disastrous political fallout.” Tower answered.
“Wonderful.” Shawn replied.
Blast Shield paused at a closed door. “Down the stairs behind the door. We locked it after what we found it.”
“Grif has most of the troops off for different reasons, so we didn’t have the staff to place armed guards, and we didn’t want to take the chance of giving them something to copy,” Tower Shield said.
“Alright then,” Shawn replied as he opened the door. He walked past the doorway and headed down the stairs before setting his eyes on what was in front of him. “Oh. Wonderful.”
Looking around, he spotted several pieces of what had once been furniture rotting on the floor. The room had been covered in a thick fluorescent glowing green goo with pods of varying sizes. He could see the splintered remains of a Timberwolf in the pod nearest him. All of them glowed dully, as did the floor. Many husks and shards lay scattered amongst the current pods, degrading to join the pile of ooze. Judging by the tooth marks, they also served as a food source.. Shawn just stared blankly at the two creatures standing before him. The two Changelings stood frozen in a staring contest with the sum of all their fears.
“So,” he said, reaching into his coat and pulling out a knife. “Who wants to go first?”
The changelings dropped to the ground and covered their heads. “Please don’t kill us,” one of them said, not daring to look up.
Shawn paused as he looked at the changelings. “I’ll be honest, didn’t expect that response… What are you two doing here?”
“The disconnected landed here after the invasion failed. The disconnected could not find the queen, or the hive”
“How many of you are there?”
“We are four,” the Changeling on the right replied with pride. “If necessary, we only need to bite you once to have you listen to one of our voices.” The changeling’s armor shook, even as it spoke, a clear betrayal to the bravado it had just shown..
“I’d prefer you not try to bite me,” Shawn replied, leaning against one of the walls as he stared at the changelings. “So. There are four of you in total, all of you ‘disconnected’ from Chrysalis?”
“The disconnected have not heard the queen since landing; only the whispers that started weeks ago,” another changeling further back answered. Its voice sounded higher pitched.
“Something tells me I know what those ‘whispers’ are…” Shawn muttered to himself. “Where are the other two?”
“The larger ones say to wait until they make things safe.”
“Where are they making ‘safe’?”
“we heard ponies. The disconnected did not wish to see all wiped out.”
“That doesn’t exactly answer my question.”
“This place, safe place,” the changeling responded, stomping a hoof non-aggressively.
“If this is the safe place, and they are trying to make it safe, what are they going to try?” He asked, idly flipping the knife around in his hand.
“We did not know this was The Undying’s place,” The changeling said, shaking.
“Show me where they are before they do something stupid and you all pay for it,” Shawn said, shaking his head.
Two smaller changelings stepped out of the darkness in the back. Shawn noticed as they walked a few larger thicker plates of chitin were kicked away, indicating that these two had recently shed and regrown their shells which were made of thinner interlocking plates.
“Good. You didn’t try getting around that.” He said, still twirling the knife in his hand. “Congratulations, you won’t be killed unless you give me a reason.”
“We ... we live?” One of the larger Changelings asked in confusion. “You are The Undying, the Queen Menace. You attack Changelings.” He moved in an instinct almost to protect the other two Changelings in synchronization with his partner.
“Yeah, well, you caught me in a better mood,” Shawn replied, putting the knife back into his coat.
The two male Changelings did not know what to do or think. “We ... we can feed on love?”
“As long as you don’t capture anyone inside of a green cocoon, nor drain anyone entirely of emotion, I don’t see a reason to kill you.”
“Then how do we live?” One of the smaller Changelings cried out in an actual show of frustration.
“Willing love, food, I don’t know,” Shawn replied. “I’ll take you to the other changeling hive to figure it out.”
“Other hive?” The “leader” Changeling cried out. “Another hive?” it said, blinking in surprise.
“Most likely those whispers you have been hearing or something.” Shawn sighed. “Come on. We’ll go now, before I change my mind.”
In a flash of green fire the four changelings were replaced by four unicorns Shawn was certain he had seen in Canterlot a few times.
“Half tempted to tell you not to disguise yourselves…”
“Wha? WHY!?!” One of the smaller Unicorns cried, a mare by look of its form. “We would be killed out there.”
“Because you’re coming with me. If anyone has a problem, I would-” He broke off as he realized just where that train of thought was leading him. “On second thought, just stay in disguise then. But when we get to the hive, you’re changing back.” Shawn sighed again.
“We agree.” A mare said, nodding her head. “Lead the way, Undying.”
As they climbed the stairs, Shawn found the two shield brothers standing guard over the door. Tower took a look behind Shawn and raised an eyebrow. “Are …? They ... where are you taking them? What are you doing?” He moved to block his lord, concern showing in his eyes as he looked over the pony’s neck.
“I’m dealing with them by taking them to a different location,” he replied.
“Should I get an armed escort together?” Blast Shield asked.
“I’d prefer keeping those who know of the location to a minimum. If you want to come along, go right ahead. But we’ll be walking.”
“Very well, sir.” Tower Shield saluted as he and his brother filed in behind the party.
Grif sat behind the makeshift desk of what he had determined to be his ‘temporary office.’ It was really just a room inside the palace that had been in better shape than most of the others. He had taken a few large stone blocks and placed some boards over them to form his desk. He waited as patiently as he could, rehearsing the lines in his head about how he would deal with this. His concentration was soon disturbed by a loud voice clearing itself.
“Ahem. I was told our contractor requested to see me,” a familiar voice spoke up; a voice that in animated form had brought no end of teeth grating rage to the gryphon. But now that he was present in the same space he could hear true emotion with the voice: pain, regret, and rage all seemed strong themes in the headstrong gryphoness’ voice as Gilda spoke.
“Yeah, come on in,” Grif said, gesturing to the other side of the desk. “Take… uh … seat. Yeah ... that probably would work better if i had chairs,” Grif noted. “So your name is Gilda, right?”
“Yeah.” the gryphoness raised an eyebrow.
“I’m sure you noticed, Gilda, that we are operating in rather close proximity and nigh on constant contact with Ponyville. It has come to my attention that you have some history with this town, and I think I’d like to get the full story about this.”
“Sure,” Gilda said with mock glee. “And then I’ll cry and say how bad a person I was and march straight out there and apologize to those dwee-” Gilda was cut off as a feather shaped blade buried itself in the end of the desk near her.
“I’m going to cover this once,” Grif said. “If you're going to carry a weapon, then present yourself with some level of decorum. I understand if you will not respect the citizens of Ponyville, but you will not speak disrespectfully about them either. My father had a saying. ‘There are three sides to every story: his, hers, and the truth.’ I have heard one side. Now I asked for yours cause apparently there are some deep seated issues here, and come the end of the week, some gryphons I know will be staying here. I’d like to know if there is going to be trouble to deal with. Right now, there is one blade at the end of the desk. If there are three blades at the end before this conversation is complete, you will be on latrine duty until our contract is up. Is that clear?”
The gryphoness made to speak, but closed her beak as her eyes fell back to the blade. “Fine.” She sighed. “It was a couple years ago. My clan had been attacked in the western kingdom. The attacking clan had ties to the king. I was away, and so when I returned they had me declared clanless for cowardice. Seeing as my family just died and all my gryphon friends decided to recognise me as non-existent, I left Gryphonia behind and headed to Cloudsdale in hopes of finding Rainbow Dash. I found out later from her father that she had moved to Ponyville. Of course Cloudsdale had been blown near Manehattan at this time, and I had no real money for a train ride.”
“Why didn’t you ask Rainbow’s father for help?” Grif asked with a raised eyebrow.
“Me and Rainbow Dash had been friends in flight school. I only met the guy once when I was invited to her birthday party the day before my airship was headed back to Gryphonia. Anyway, one week of flying around hunting down this small town later, I finally manage to find the du-” her eyes trailed to the blade. “... Place, and at that point, finding Rainbow’s house was easy. She was never good with subtlety, after all.” Gilda’s mask cracked a bit as she allowed herself a small grin without realising it. “I asked if I could stay a few days. Just until I could figure things out, you know?” She looked at Grif, who nodded silently and motioned for her to continue. “Me and dash were just about to leave the place the next morning when low and behold, someone starts shouting for her. I looked off the cloud and there she was, Miss. Pretty in Pink herself. I thought Rainbow Dash had gone and replaced me. Then when the pink nightmare got turned down by Rainbow, I thought I was just making things up. After that, the two of us hung out like we did in flight school. Flying, laughing. It was like old times. I thought maybe I’d lost everything, but I still had dash, you know? I still had my friend.” Grif never said a word, but he could see the tears being held back as the gryphoness spoke.
“Thats why I sent the pink one away, okay? Then Rainbow had to leave for a bit, so I figured I would take in the sights. I was so stressed from everything and…” she looked at Grif’s stern expression. “I know thats no excuse, alright? I took the apple cause I didn’t have money to buy food and I hadn’t had a good meal in a while. That was wrong. Scaring the old goa-” Grif threw a second blade “-old pony,” she corrected. “Was wrong. I get it. And fluttershy…” she sighed. “Look. In flight school she always looked at me weird and went out of her way to avoid me. I thought she had something against me. I guess I acted rashly. And then came that stupid party.” Gilda looked to the ground.
“Yes, the party. I’m guessing you figured Ponyville was picking on you? Or at least Pinkie Pie?” Grif raised an eyebrow and got a nod. “Speaking from an experience that I might one day get to tell you, betrayal is hard to take. I’ve been betrayed by friends before, but I also have misread actions for a betrayal.” Grif looked at Gilda. There really was only so much a cartoon tv show could tell you. Going by this new information, Grif didn’t see a bully, but rather someone in pain. He nodded his head decisively. “Gilda, I’m going to be frank with you. While you haven’t agreed to join my clan, I’m going to ask you to anyway.”
“You don’t get it. I didn’t join the mercenaries to survive. I joined them hoping I’d be able to end it all with some honor left. I got no family, no friends, no name. Heck, even this axe is borrowed, and I don’t know how to use the damn thing,” Gilda said, holding up the war axe and dropping it on the desk, vibrating the boards and filling the room with a hollow clanking.
“Gilda, I realize your family can’t be replaced. Aside from pensword, I probably know that better than most here do. But I want the Bladefeathers to be like one. Join our family and I will teach you the old ways. The ways of a true warrior. In that fashion we can rebuild your honor. And while I train you we can bring these issues between you and Rainbow Dash, and even you and Ponyville, to a head and sort them out. We can rebuild your friendship and build new ones. I hear it in her voice occasionally. Rainbow Dash still misses you.” Grif shifted in his seat, his eyes a mixture of stern kindness and hardened will. Look, I have you all contracted till the end of the week. Think about it. Death is an end that will come, but not one that should be rushed to. Let me offer you a new beginning. Take the time, think it over.” He paused a moment, bringing his talon to his beak before returning it to the makeshift desk. “Oh, and see the smiths about getting fitted for a better weapon. Consider that a gift, no matter what way you choose.”
“I...I ...” Gilda began, but Grif held up a talon.
“Go think it over. There will be plenty of time for ‘I’s’, ‘we’s,’ and ‘you’s’ later,” Grif chuckled. Gilda nodded silently, then left, her expression thoughtful and her wings relaxed. He gave her several minutes to be out of earshot.
“So what do you think? Will she take my offer?” Grif asked the not so empty room.
“She’s immature; a haughty girl. Still … she does have a glimmer of potential. And just that right hint of desperation. I think it will take time to truly decide. But if you can help her in this next week, prove to her that you can do what you say, she’ll stay.” Shrial said as she stepped from the shadows, her locket and ring glinting in the light.
“Everyone who stays is one less corpse waiting to happen,” Grif said. “I’d rather not see so many years chopped away needlessly.”
“You can’t save them all, Grif.” Shrial said, soberly.
“Which is why I have to save the ones I can. Honestly, look at this axe. I’d give it two more swings before the thing broke.”
“Someone is going to have to teach Daedalus to reign in those kings one of these days,” Shrial said bitterly. “If he doesn’t, I fear far worse will come.”
“You know, back on earth we had a kingdom with a king that gave too much of his power away,” Grif said. “Now his family is one of the most mocked figures in the world. Another took too much power. They lopped off him and all his supporters heads. Where is the balance supposed to lie, I wonder?”
“Where, indeed? Politics is a dangerous game. And blacker than murder in some cases. The world would do far better without it.”
“Remember that, my dear. And if I ever go off the deep end and go mad with power, do me a favour. End me there,” Grif said as he moved from behind the desk and towards the door. “Looks to be a beautiful night. Perhaps a moonlit flight over the gorge?” he smiled at her.
“I’d love to. Just don’t think like that, alright dear?” She kissed him, lingering on his beak before striding to the window and leaping into the cool night air. With a chuckle, Grif followed her.
Pensword stood in silence as he stared at the rock wall. He looked to his left and Lunar Fang, and then to Luna on his right. He looked back to the wall as a multitude of emotions whirled about in his head. He blinked back a tears as they all waited for the sun to set and the cave entrance to appear. He looked around the empty land. It was still wild and untamed, yet he could tell that time had changed much of what he once knew. Trees had changed locations, undergrowth had risen a little, he could just make out where some digging had happened. He was not sure what it may have been for, but it was there. His unease only grew as he recalled the trenches some ponies had dug in the war for defense and linked them to his human memories of World War One.
His thoughts were soon disturbed, however, by the falling of the sun as Princess Luna spread her wings and took flight, catching the last of the evening rays on her wings. She looked truly stunning as fire played across her starry mane and reflected off of the Ursa Armor. She truly struck a stunning figure. Just as the sun settled and twilight fell, Luna’s horn ignited into brilliant blue light. Her eyes glowed white, stars began to sparkle across the sky, winking on one at a time. And then it rose. The great light of the full moon flew like a chariot as its silver rays shot like arrows to shine upon the entrance of the meeting grounds. When the boulder had moved aside once again, Luna slowly descended, surrounded by a nimbus of blue magic. Finally she touched the ground, the glow died, and the light faded from her eyes. The time had finally arrived.
The passage was just as long as Pensword had remembered, if not longer, leading into the main chamber. But when the trio got there, they stopped dead in their tracks. They had unconsciously been preparing to find a great many possibilities when they entered the chamber, the worst case scenario being remains. Instead, to their astonishment, they found that the inner chamber had nearly doubled in size over the years the thestrals had hidden within. Homes and buildings surrounded them, carved carefully into the stone as Thestrals, oblivious to their guests, continued with daily life. Large support pillars had been set up to add integrity to what could very well be a totally hollow mountain. Gemstones glittered like stars from the rocks and the illumination from bioluminescent fungi caused the cave to give off a spell binding show of millions of points of light. It was almost as if the stars had ventured beneath the great mountain to celebrate the night with friends.
On closer inspection, the cave thestrals seemed to be opposite of the ones who stayed on the surface. Their coat colors were darker, even more so than Luna’s now. Penswords eyes couldn’t pick out a single moonkissed within the masses of thestrals moving about. The two thestral guards of the cave approached them cautiously. But unlike their predecessors of centuries past, now they were dressed in forged ebony armor that was sharp and angular. They carried long spears made from some sort of black wood with ebony spear heads. “Speak, and be recognized,” one spoke, pointing his spear at the three with a squinted gaze.
The middle of the three spoke, his voice strong and firm as it carried into the cave. “I am called Moonkissed Commander Pensword of the Dream Clan of the Bear Tribe.” The guards had stopped them in the shadows, so he stepped forward into the light. The guards started as if waking from slumber. A dim whisper flowed through the cavern at the name, like a stream rushing through a glade.
Next, the pony to his right spoke, stepping forward to bear scrutiny, her fangs at the ready. “I am called Lunar Fang of the Lion Tribe: Warrior and wife to Pensword, and Thestral teacher to High Chieftess Luna.”
One of the guards snorted in derision. “High Chieftess Luna is long gone. As are Commanders Pensword and Lunar Fang. They died long ago.”
Pensword glared. He moved a wing to push the cloak up, not just show his armor and sword, but also the pitchfork at his side. “I carry Concord, a weapon that would never be held by any other save its rightful owner. Pegasi would never allow the weapon of a Commander to be used by any other.”
“A mere forgery and nothing more,” the guard snorted derisively.
Luna stepped slowly forward, looked at the thestral with a cold expression, then released her guise. Glowing with an aura of moonlight that filled the small passage and blotted out the fungi, she glared in her majesty, complimented by her Ursa cloak as it billowed behind her. The lights of the cave looked paltry in comparison. “Gather the chieftains to council, guard. The legends live again. Your High Chieftess has returned, and the commanders of old lie before you. The long rest is ended.”
The thestrals’ eyes bulged in their sockets while the lesser pony who had spoken earlier stood trembling behind his commander.
Pensword’s voice broke the silence like a crack of thunder. “Did you not hear? Did she not give orders? Move! Or have the Thestrals also become as complacent as the guards of the Sun?”
“Y-y...yes, high chieftess.” The guards bowed before running off. Luna returned her guise when they were gone and the brilliant flare of moonlight winked out, returning the rule of the gemstone stars. Yet their light seemed a paltry thing compared to the glory and majesty of the mare in the moon.
“Well, I think that went rather well, wouldn’t you say, Pensword?” Luna asked, smirking.
“It could have gone better,” he said gruffly. “If the Thestrals are as well trained as thy Sister, Faust help us all,” He muttered. “Still, this is one way of returning.”
Lunar Fang paused and looked to Luna. “May I ask why you have not returned till now?” She kept her voice low to avoid any listening ears that might yet be lurking in the shadows.
“I have been back but a few years,” Luna said. “In that time, aside from the curse that is bureaucracy, and the annoyance that is the house of lords, I have had to re-establish myself with dozens of traveling dignitaries, sign countless papers, and settle disputes that were centuries old. I’ve only just now had the opportunity and the correct company for a venture such as this. And while I may have enjoyed hunting that Ursa to make a new armor, I doubt any of our smiths would have been able to craft anything even remotely close to what Hammer Strike could make.”
“We are honored,” Lunar Fang whispered, confident she could speak for both Pensword and her, “That we could be part of this historic venture.”
“You two were there to witness my rise and my fall. Now I will have you witness my rebirth,” she said. “It is only fitting.”
Pensword bowed his head in respect and deferment to Luna. “Shall we proceed? I believe that time has past enough for the Tribe Chieftains to gather.”
“Yes, I believe you are right. I do wonder who has replaced my faithful council.” Luna smiled as the trio made their way towards the familiar meeting place. The pit was deeper than they remembered and the bear in the center had been replaced by an engraving of Luna’s helmet on a large smooth rectangular stone, one on each side. Moonstones shone dimly, hanging from cleverly crafted lamps high above. Their light was much diminished from what Pensword remembered and he frowned, wondering what could have changed that. In the stead of the huts and tents he remembered, houses had been built. Though if one looked towards the heads of the caves, one could see the tops of a few tents still peeking amongst the roof tops. The houses themselves seemed to be made from some kind of clay, keeping to the smell of moist earth and damp that filled the cavern. They rose in layers, linked by ladders for those who may be injured or infirm to climb up and down. Various pulleys and other mechanisms lay there, waiting to pull up packages and other items too large to fly with. From the doorways and roofs, dark furred ponies stared, some pointing with hooves, others whispering secretly, keeping to the darker shadows in the dim light cast by the stones.
Pensword wept inside seeing his people reduced to this. “This has to change,” he muttered softly as they walked to stand where they had once stood so very long ago, waiting to be invited to take Luna’s rightful place, to stand in the center on the stone that bore her helmet. As they waited the Chief and Chieftesses slowly gathered around in their appointed spaces. Once again, Pensword noted their darker fur. The lightness had nearly gone. One or two ponies’ coats stood out completely black. What had caused such a dramatic change?
The thestrals fell to silence as the chieftains turned to face their guests. Standing proudly, an old stallion spoke.
“The chieftains of the thestral tribes have gathered as called. As is my right as speaker of the clans, I, Flurry Fang of The Wolf Clan will speak first.” he said. His mane and fur shone a ruddy russet red, but it was so dark it was nearly black. Scars marked his muzzle including one particularly ugly V shaped scar over his left eye. “You three are welcome in the sacred cave. We have been told the high chieftess is with you?” He asked, his brow raised in a sign of curiosity.
Pensword stepped forward. “She is.” His voice echoed around the meeting pit as he eyed each Tribal leader. A murmur spread across the caves as the great halfling of legend staked his claim. “Presenting High Chiefess Luna Stellarus Galaxia of all organized Thestrals, killer of the Ursa Major, and raiser of the Moon.”
A great hush of silence came over the crowd as the thestrals held their breaths. All eyes were on the commander as they awaited the arrival of the great chieftess of legend. Luna took a deep breath, then stepped forward to the center. With each step, another piece of her guise melted away, revealing the glory, power, and majesty that lay beneath. The tension became thick as the thestrals looked down at her. The Ursa Armor shone with piercing white light. Much as before, her aura burned away the darkness with a silvery light. And as it did, so too did the moon stones, blazing like stars at the rejuvenating presence of the Princess of the Night. “I have returned, my ponies, to bring you back to the light.”
For the first time in many a year, the Thestrals broke decorum and tradition as the cavern erupted into a roar of cheers that echoed over walls, houses, and caves. For a moment, utter pandemonium reigned. Luna smiled, happy to see that the roar was not one of outrage, nor fear, but even as it was for the halflings in the village outside. It was good to know she was still well loved. It made her feel, well, better. Pensword frowned, worried over the comments he heard like warriors blaming themselves and their ancestors for their fate, talk of unworthiness. These would need to be sorted out, and soon. It took eight minutes to quiet the place down. Why eight? Because one of the Thestrals timed it. At last, Flurry Fang spoke again.
“High Chieftess, long have we awaited your return. We Thestrals have suffered sorely in your absence. The council is most pleased to see our beloved Luna back with her people.” Another cheer rang through the halls, though this one was significantly shorter.
“We do hope after your extended absence you will be able to keep up with the changes to thestral society,” the fox tribe leader added in an almost snarky tone. The deep blue mare seemed to hold an uncanny resemblance to her tribe’s animal.
“Oh, I hope to do more,” Luna said, taking the remark in stride. “It is our intent to set up our very own city. A capital to show Equestria just what the thestral’s can be!”
“Are you implying that you intend to rebell against your sister a second time?” The stallion of the Lion Tribe asked in shock. “Set us up as a capital city? These are sacred grounds. Not all may enter these caves, especially after your ... fall. What do you plan?” He hesitated briefly, then spoke once more. “The Lion Tribe will stand behind your voice, even in full rebellion of Equestria.”
“My ponies!” Luna said, laughing a little in the process. “The pegasi have Cloudsdale, the earth ponies have Manehattan, and the unicorn is at home in Canterlot, but where can a threstral look and say ‘we built this city?’ I do not speak of rebellion; only of showing Equestria the greatness that is the thestral culture.”
“Where?” the Manticore Chiefess asked. “Where do we build this capital of Thestral might?” She looked to the Lion Chief. “We shall not rebel, but instead it seems High Chieftess has plans far, far grander.” She turned to look at Luna. “I move that we allow High Chieftess Luna to stand in her rightful place in the center of this meeting.”
“I will not move until it is the gathering’s will that I move” Luna said, looking to the crowd. “Never again will I act against the will of my people.”
“I shall second the motion.” The stallion of the Lion Tribe spoke, causing an opening for a vote of where Luna was to stand.
“All those in favor of accepting High Chieftess Luna into the ranks of the council again, raise your hooves!” The wolf tribe leader called. All the ponies present raised their hooves. “Those opposed?” None moved. “Then it is decided.” The stallion smiled broadly. “High Chieftess Luna, welcome home.”
Luna smiled back as she moved to her spot. “Lunar fang and pensword have graciously offered us the land of fort triumph and it’s duchy,” Luna explained when she reached her appointed place. “The fort is already being defended by the valiant warriors of the Lion Tribe” Luna nodded to the lion chieftain. “Using the fort as a center and building outwards, we believe we could achieve a functional city within six years.”
“You mean that after all this time, we can finally enjoy the night again? Chieftess, to do so would bring so much joy to our children … and to us. Our one concern is what of the ponies who fear us and our reproach? Many feel we would seek vengeance. And it is possible some of us would. How can we defend ourselves should certain ponies seek to mount an attack on us? We do not wish to rouse the hunts again and expose our children to such risk.”
“Much has changed, my ponies. The world is not as cold nor as cruel as you remember. Some of your number even now still live amongst the other ponies just fine. I know it is a leap of faith, and I do not deserve it, but I am asking you to put trust in me.”
“That is News of wonderment,” the stallion of the Dragon Tribe said. “However, is it not tradition to the Ponies of the sun to have nobility in the capital? How long till nobles start moving in and dictating laws, pushing us out again? How long would we have before we must return once more to hide in caves and live as we do now?”
“We shall have nobles this is true,” Luna nodded as she smiled at pensword and Lunar Fang. “You shall be our nobles. I can think of no reward more fitting for the great chieftains and leaders of thestral kind than titles befitting their nature”
The Hall was utterly silent. They slowly looked at one another. It was the Viper clan that spoke next. “Do you say, that we shall, upon leaving our caves, be sitting at the tables of nobles as their equals? How … permanent is your authority to grant new nobility?” The mare smiled, “Because I for one, cannot wait to frustrate their petty plans, and bring some sense to the courts.” She smiled like a fox in a henhouse.
“My lady viper, I am princess of the realm. Sister to Princess Celestia herself. She moves the sun and I move the moon. If the unicorns wish to argue and quarrel over what is well within my right to grant, then they shall do so with me. The earth ponies have gained titles, the pegasi too have entered the nobility. I say it is time the thestrals showed the stuff shirted peacocks the true meaning of nobility.”
“Is there an objection to the plans of the high chieftess?” the wolf spoke up looking around the pit. “As is the custom for a decision of this magnitude, all must be given a voice, and all voices must be heard. We are family and we do not act without the family’s blessing.” He scanned the crowds closely silently waiting to see if any would step up.
The hive’s growth was quite surprising as black chitinous material matted the walls creating large tunnels, corridors, chambers, anti-chambers, and other such areas. Full sized changelings walked through the hive silently to the outside perspective. Though the hive mind buzzed with loud conversations between the changelings themselves, the current drone, and the Queen Mother. Only a few nymphs remained from the last clutch of eggs to have been laid, the small changelings already on the path to adulthood as the pony shaped insectoids worked to finish the hive’s construction before they would be heading out to their assigned points. Soon they would leave the nest to collect love from sources that had been pre-approved. All in all the last four months had been well used by the hive. in the central chamber of the hive, the green pillar sat empty without its usual glow. Me-Me stood beside it, staring with a mixed expression of joy and pain on her face.
“So, what’s going on here?” Hammer Strike questioned as he walked up to her.
“There isn’t enough love currently to sustain a larger population.” Me-Me shook her head. “I had to leave the incubator off for now.”
“This may be a problem then with what I found recently,” Hammer Strike responded. “Care to greet the company?”
“Company?” Me-Me asked. “You mean the birds?”
“I’m pretty sure Blast and Tower are unicorns,” he replied. “If you mean the other changelings that were brought here…”
“Other changelings?” Me-Me asked. “I haven’t heard any other changelings.”
“They hid away,” he said, turning towards the six. “And now they aren’t.”
“I see … And what have you decided to do with them?”
“I don’t know, let them live,” He replied with a shrug. “They didn’t try to kill me, so I don’t see a reason to kill them.”
“And why come to me?” Me-Me asked.
“Because I don’t have a single idea of what to do with them.”
“And you think i have some super secret ability I can use to assure their loyalty?” she asked. “It doesn’t work like that.”
“No, I don’t expect anything like that. I thought you would have at least the faintest idea of what to do with them. If I keep them around Unity, they’ll most likely die.” He sighed heavily.
“I can provide some love for now, but i cannot spare much. Perhaps you need to find a place where they could serve a purpose and feed off of ambient love?”
“I might be able to figure out a place, but thanks for the help in the mean time. There has been enough death, but there always seems to be more to come. At least this one might be delayed or avoided for some time.”
“As a queen, I will live to see many of my children die,” Me-Me said as she worked her spell. “It is something I had to come to terms with not long ago. The best advice I can give you is to take joy in every life, and remember those that fall.”
“I find little joy in it, and recent events didn’t help that.” He replied as his left eye twitched.
“Are there no lives you enjoy being around?” Me-Me asked.
“A little more than twelve that seem to be drifting apart.” He said sadly before returning to his neutral tone. “Anything else you wish to discuss before we leave?”
“More, is there anything else you need to say?” Me-Me countered.
“Unless I’m mistaken, no. I guess we’ll be on our way. It was nice seeing you again.” With that, Hammer strike walked out, the two shields close behind as they left the Changeling Queen’s court.
it had been close to three hours in which the chieftains had heard from dozens of thestrals making their points both for and against the idea. Issues such as proper hunting grounds, the Equestrian bit value in the thestrals’ own complicated trade system, safety while construction went on, and other such issues. Finally, after all this time it seemed as though nopony had anything else to say and the Wolf Tribe leader stomped his hoof. “Are there no more concerns for the family?” he asked. After several moments of silence he nodded. “Very well. All in favor of the high chieftess’ plan?” he asked.
Slowly each Thestral, starting at the Manticore tribe rose a wing, moving as a wave while the rustling flap of leather wings slowly filled and echoed across the caverns. “Manticore votes in favor. Viper votes in favor. Lion votes in favor.” A slight pause broke the motion as they waited for the Fox Tribe to vote. Finally, they raised their wings. “Fox votes in favor. Dragon votes in favor.” The room grew heavy in the silence. “The Wolf Tribe shall vote in favor of the plans of the High Chiefess.” He turned to bow to Luna. “Rarely has a unanimous vote been given. However, tonight we all feel that for us to regain what we have lost and return to the light of the moon, we shall vote in allowance of your plan to blossom.”
Luna smiled, attempting to maintain her poise as silvery tears trickled down her face. “Thank you all for the trust you have placed on me. I will make sure it is not misplaced.”
Pensword blinked. As a historian he felt almost akin to some of the men who knew what their votes were doing over two hundred years ago in his home nation. He was seeing the beginning, the birth of something new. Something grand. He held his peace, content to see history unfolding around him. He would make a record of it for future generations later.
Lunar Fang, on the other hoof, was the opposite. Even in her current condition, she smiled and gave a whoop that seemed to give permission for the others to cheer or celebrate as she wrapped her hooves around her mate’s neck. She paused upon seeing Pensword’s pensive expression. “What’s wrong?” She asked him, unheard by all save Luna.
“I am thinking, and realizing and reminiscing of my past. My country, America, might be described as forming from a vote similar to this. It is not exactly the same, mind you, but parallels could be drawn. We are shaking up the world around us and creating something new.” He frowned. “Not something quite so different and radical as a Republic, but something new nonetheless. Something that will cause waves and reactions unforeseeable in the future.” He smiled finally. “I think I am going to enjoy seeing what happens in the years to come.”
“Let it hereby be said that all thestrals shall begin to prepare for the move. Pack what you require most. Leave anything of value to be retrieved at a later day,” Luna ordered. “Hunters will lead the groups. The sick and injured shall keep to the middle. With respect to the chieftains, I hereby adjourn this gathering.” Luna nodded to the chieftains, who nodded in turn. The return was complete.
Thalia panted, her hot breath and sweaty body steaming in the cool air. She clung to her tomahawks as she crashed her way through the woods. Her fur was covered in blood. Fortunately, most of it was not her own. “By the winds, that was the third Manticore. Just how heavily guarded is this place?” She cursed under her breath as she continued to make her path, her eyes darting as she followed the river. According to that zebra’s directions, the river should lead to a large, walled in enclosure. Supposedly the only way to enter was to face the gatekeeper. The walls were enchanted against any outside force entering unless authorized. She groaned inwardly. “Please, just don’t let me run in to another one of those creatures.” She grumbled.
“My my my, that is quite a bit of blood, my dear. Are you sure you wouldn’t rather wash it off?” Out from the river rose a thrashing sea serpent with red hair and a red and purple mustache. Chunks of ice flow shattered against his scales as he gazed on the gryphoness.Thalia readied her weapons.
“Now now, no need for such violence. I come in peace, young gryphoness, honest I do. The name’s Steven. Steven Magnet.”
Thalia eyed the creature warily. “What do you want from me, serpent?”
“Well, I’m supposed to guard these waters from anyone who wants to steal from the garden, my dear. Though it doesn’t need much protecting, truth be told. It practically takes care of itself. So I just like to explore every once in a while. You know, morning swim, keep the limbs limber and all that. Oh, and of course, I simply must make sure to keep in style. Tell me, do you like my mustache?”
“Um … you are aware that one side of it is purple … right?” Thalia asked as she edged carefully towards the waters. She took the serpent’s advice and began to wash her weapons.
“Oh yes, that. It was a gift, believe it or not, from one of the kindest, most generous ponies a monster could ever hope to meet.” Magnum sighed. “After that mean Nightmare Moon cut my mustache to get into the gardens, I simply fell to pieces. Churning up the waters, destroying bridges, it was such a trying time. You have absolutely no idea. But then that purple maned pony came with the diamond cutie marks. After hearing of my plight, why, she did the most noble thing. Do you know what that was?”
“Um … no. And not to be rude or anything, but I don’t really care. I need to get into the garden. My mother’s life is at stake.”
“She cut off her tail … for me! Oh, the sacrifice it must have taken. She saved me, my dear, absolutely saved me.” He continued on, not having heard the gryphoness.
Thalia steamed. “Hello! Life or death situation here! My mother is going to die if I don’t get some leaves from a tree in your garden. Now point me in the right direction, or at least leave me alone so I can find it!”
The serpent sat, stunned as he stared at the gryphoness. “My, my , such rude behavior. My dear, you’ll never find the garden like that. It’s too well guarded, and magically protected besides. I was going to offer you help, but I’m not so sure I want to anymore. You’re simply too brusque. Not sophisticated enough. And you’re not even willing to listen to someone else speak. An important lesson, my dear. A leader must learn to listen and to be patient while dealing with others. If they simply snap then they will lose what they seek. You’re lucky that Zecora sent word ahead for you. She comes by my river every once in a while to share tea with me. Wonderful Zebra, that one.”
“You know that crazy-”
An angry growl emanated from the serpent. “Do not test me, little girl. I am far older than I appear. And while I do not like violence, I will not allow Miss Zecora to be insulted. Know this. I will take you to the garden because of her request, but that is all the help that you will receive for your actions. Learn from them, and get on.” The serpent glowered and huffed as he extended his coils for the gryphoness to climb on. “An apology would be most appreciated as well.”
“I can make it there-”
“Get on!” he roared. Thalia chose to be silent and do as she was told, feeling cowed for the second time in the last few days. “Wise decision. Hold on now, young lady. You’re about to get wet.” Smiling mischievously, the serpent shoved a plant down the gryphoness’ throat. Before she could react, or even so much as gag, he dove. Thalia clung to his scales as best she could, the surging waters rushing to meet her as the serpent went under.
Behind carousel Boutique Grif and Rarity stood in a large square cleared of snow. The unicorn’s training had been going smoothly so far and Grif had moved to shouting long strings of moves while Rarity tried her best to match as many as she could before Grif finished the string. The two had been at it for the last hour or so and the white unicorn was beginning to show strain, panting heavily.
“Okay, take five, Rarity,” Grif said, noticing the panting. “You almost made it through the chain that time.”
The white unicorn didn’t need to be told twice as she fell to the ground on her flanks. “I certainly didn’t expect it to be so… draining,” she said. “You learned to fight like this?”
“No.” Grif chuckled. “Believe me, my teacher was much more in your face about training. But I don’t think you're ready to leave the training sessions battered and bruised just yet.”
“It doesn’t feel like I’ve progressed that much in the lessons we’ve had,” she agreed. “It hardly feels like I’m moving forward at all, really.”
“Well, much like you always strive to make a better dress design, sword fighting a perpetual skill. As long as you practice it you can only move forward. With no end in sight there is no real way to measure. Many sword fighters make their own, but in truth there isn’t a way to measure someone's potential.” He smiled “You're making good progress. Don’t kid yourself. I might have Shrial come in soon to spar with you, but that won’t be until we have everything sorted out.”
“That sounds like it has more to it than you're letting on, dear,” Rarity said as she pulled a pre-prepared pitcher of water over and poured herself a drink. The drink was ice cold and surprisingly refreshing in the cool weather. “Big things happening around New Unity?”
“You couldn’t even guess.” Grif laughed “What with the rebuilding, we also are trying to find a place for everybody.” Grif lowered his voice “And there’s a wedding to consider at some point in the future.”
“Well, when the happy bride to be is ready, have her come visit me for a fitting.” She replied with a twinkle in her eye. “I am sure I could do something to bring out her inner beauty. And of course, I’ll be needing the groom to be as well.” Rarity smiled as she picked up her rapier again. Her eyes spoke of mirth and mischief that Grif did not know if she had guessed or not just whose wedding he may have meant.
“Actually, I could use your help on another matter,” Grif noted. “Is Rainbow still steaming about Gilda?”
Rarity paused as she sucked on her teeth a little in thought. “Well, I don’t think so. She is still miffed at how she treated her friends though.” She paused and motioned for Grif to step closer. “Don’t say where you heard this, but she is a little down and she feels she let a friend down as well. She is loyal to her friends, but she feels betrayed. At the same time, she sits around wondering if she could have done something to stop the train wreck.”
“You think with the right coaxing those two could reconcile?” Grif asked her.
“That, I cannot answer,” she replied with a thoughtful look. “You would have to ask her yourself. She should be napping at her cloud home before tonight’s weather pattern. She has the night shift for a last minute snow storm before Winter Wrap Up.”
“I guess Winter Wrap Up is close enough for that.” Grif chuckled. “How do you think she will react to the idea? Should I go armed?”
“Dear, even if you were armed, she could most likely take you out with electricity in the clouds around her.” She shook her head. “She naps all the time because she is too good at her job. Her speed is uncanny. I doubt a weapon would help you up there.” Rarity shook her head at the comment. “You may be a weapons master, but Rainbow Dash has mastery of the weather.”
Grif laughed. “Well, I guess it’s time,” he said, standing up again. “Ready position…” And with that the two began their lesson anew.
“No.” Hammer Strike said, looking to the four changelings. He was currently sitting at a desk in his room.
“But then no one will kill us and we make sure no one will kill you. No one gets killed. It is a perfect scenario,” one of the larger changelings said, struggling to grasp his own logic in his new individuality.
“I have enough personal guards,” He replied again before sighing. “I don’t know. Perhaps. Put you on a trial or something to see how it goes.”
“You won’t regret it, Undying one,” the changeling responded happily.
“I think I already am.” Hammer said, rubbing his hoof against his forehead. “Tower, could you show them to a room or something? I need to think more on this…”
“Um … yes, sir.” Tower said, looking warily on the changelings. “This … will take some getting used to.”
“Well, we have gryphons. We’ll probably have thestrals coming. And I’ve heard things from the crystal empire. Whats a few changelings?” Blast Shield shrugged.
“Don’t remind me,” Hammer said aloud.
One of the smaller ones paused. “We could sense if a Changeling is nearby. We feel the buzz of the hive mind, yet we are not a part. We can know, even if a top level infiltrator is nearby. And then there are those we can control with a bite.”
“Who? The other changelings that attempt to infiltrate New Unity?” Hammer asked, his interest piqued.
“That would be a handy skill,” Blast noted. “The lanterns only last so long and we only have so many of them.”
“We’ll see how it goes when it happens,” Hammer replied.
“You mean if it happens, right, sir?” One of the guards under Blast Shield asked. He ducked from the gazes. “Excuse me for not knocking before delivering a report on the construction projects.”
“To answer that, no.” Hammer replied.
Thalia lay on the shore, shivering and gasping for breath. The serpent had taken her through a series of underwater caves, had her battle water spirits, bucked her off, caught her with his tail, nearly made her sick with his acrobats, and now lay sunbathing on the shore like nothing had happened as he groomed his beard. “I … am so … going to kill you.” She panted angrily.
“Now now, temper temper. Just because I moved quickly and took a few shortcuts doesn’t mean you have to get your tail in a twist. And I did get you past the majority of the defenses, which believe you me, would have taken you far too long by yourself. NOt to mention the fact I gave you that magic kelp to help you breathe underwater.”
“You mean the kelp that wore off three minutes before you got me above water?” Thalia growled.
“Anyways,” Magnus said, hastily moving on. “The entrance is just a little ways further up stream. If you will excuse me, I simply must be returning to my lair. Call me at the water’s edge when you have finished your task and I’ll be there to pick you up. Ta-ta, little gryphon.” And with that the serpent was gone, leaving only a few ripples and the backwards surge of water in his wake as he sped along, breaking and speeding ice chunks as he smashed them with his tail..
Thalia rolled her eyes. She didn’t know who to be more frustrated with. The sea serpent for his disrespect, or the zebra for daring to insult her by giving her help. On the other hand though, the serpent had saved her time. And right now she needed every second she could spare to save her mother. After drying her map out in the sun with the directions, she took off again, following the river. True to the serpent’s word, the great walls soon appeared, rising as high as the battlements of the castle at Canterlot. The width of the walls, according to zecora, were immeasurable. Some sort of enchantment, apparently. Looking around, she circled time and time again, trying to find her way in. When she came across her tracks several times stirring the earth around the wall, she took to the air in a frustrated cry, darting as she tried to breach the walls. Yet even as she did so, the stone seemed to rise with her. And even as she exceeded its reach, each dart and dive led her to another part of the wall, shooting out the boundary. She shrieked in frustration.
“What kind of boundary is this?!”
“The magical kind, of course, lassie.” Thalia started, uncertain where the voice had come from, but ready for anything as she gripped her axe.
“Ye know, I’d have let ye in by now if’n ye’d asked the right way. But what with all yer caterwaulin’, I couldn’t sleep a wink. Ye’ve broken me nap time, ye have.”
“What do I care of nap times when my mother is dying? Show yourself!”
“I’ll warn ye lassie, but three times. To get past me, you must speak the rhyme. To see my face and have yer chance, ye must learn to join the dance. Ye cannot always set yer own pace. And if’n ye try, your quest is a waste. The dangerous game is yet to come. But first call to me as the others have done. Then bid ye welcome, I’ll do my best. Ye’ll be as the others, a welcome guest, to seek in my garden what ye will. But you must show respect first, still.” Laughter rang through the clearing. “Well now, lassie. Three tries, and your first is already used up by yer rude intrusion. Choose the other two wisely.”
“What is this, a riddle game? I do not have time for games! My mother will lose her foot, or worse if I do not hurry. Innocent lives will be lost. I must get into this garden!”
“Two tries ye’ve lost. And one now remains. But one magic word would make things plain. Of course, when spoken, it must be sincere. Else the magic won’t work, and the garden disappear.”
“A magic word?”
“Indeed. Tis common enough. But have ye the wisdom and the humility tae find it? Now there’s the question. Think Carefully, lass. I’ll wait as long as ye need.”
Thalia fumed for a while, wanting to lash out at something, anything. But even as she glared, she thought of her mother. What would she do in a situation like this? How would she act? And more importantly, how could Thalia hope to save her if she lost her chance at the tree? Like it or not, she needed to approach this calmly and rationally. So, she holstered her axe and took a deep breath. “... May …” She choked on the word, swallowed, and started again. “May I … ask questions?”
“Wehehell. The lass actually asked nicely? Now this is a shock. Your kind have always been rude in the past. Never got in. Questions, you say. Well, it never hurts tae give a little information here and there, I suppose. And I’m feeling peculiarly generous today. Ask away, lass. But remember, the clock is ticking.”
“You say I need to speak a magic word. But in your riddle you said I needed to speak a rhyme. Were you lying to me?”
“Nay, lassie. Both be true. The word is key tae the puzzle. Then ye must speak yer rhyme tae seek entry. If’n ye guess right, I’ll show meself and let ye in. If’n ye guess wrong, well, at least ye’ll have gotten farther than any of yer kind has before.”
“How am I supposed to guess this rhyme without any clues?”
“If’n ye’ve listened, then ye’ll already have the clues ye need. And the tools fer the craftin’.”
“You said I’ll be the first of my kind to make it this far. What happened to the others?”
“They got their proper dues. Try tae cheat n’ye’ll fail every time.”
“So they’re dead?”
“Some. Others are in a manner of speaking. And others went home empty handed. The best chance is tae best me in me game. As I said in me riddle.”
“And it’s one magic word?”
“Aye.”
“I don’t know magic. How am I to guess it?”
“Oh this one’s common knowledge. Some might say it’s the most powerful one in the world, lass.”
“How so?”
“It opens doors, and plays at the heart. Awakens compassion, brings mercy, fosters love, shows humility, acts as a motivator and a healer, and much more besides. All from a simple word.”
“All that from just one word?”
“Aye. The old and the young alike use it. Though more the old than the young. For some it is taught, for others, learned. Others still reject it and the magic it brings. For them, the world is often harsh and cruel, and few if any love them.”
Thalia sat and pondered, looking back to the river where she had her most recent adventure, remembering the sea serpent who had helped her so begrudgingly. Then she considered what the voice had said. Betrayal had been all that she’d known in Gryphonia. No kindness, no love save from her mother and some few close friends in their band. What could it be that her people were missing to make this so? Surely, that must be the word. Then it hit her. But … no, it couldn’t be. That would be too simple.
“Time’s almost up, lassie. What’s the word?”
Thalia started. “What? No! It can’t be. I’m not ready yet!”
“Ten seconds, lass. And counting.”
“I need more time.”
“I’m sorry lass, I can’t do that for ye. The rules are the rules. Me hands are tied. Ye’ll have to choose.” Thalia’s eyes darted frantically as she tried to find the source of the voice, but to no avail.
“Choose.”
“I can’t!” Tears stung her eyes. “I just can’t. Please! I can’t afford to fail. I can’t lose her. Please!”
The air seemed to warp and bend over some strange shape as it bobbed about. And yet, a merry tune began to play, complemented by the voice. “A difficult word you now have said, when pride has reared its ugly head. But now you’ve struck a mortal blow against your true and inner foe. What once had ruled so cold and long, ye’ve felled and so I sing this song. Ye’ve found the word, now form the rhyme. To call my name. There’s little time.” The shape continued to bob and weave about her, even as Thalia stared, shocked. ”Kaloo, Kallay, oh what a day. A gryphon girl has come to play. And oh the fun she’s sure to bring. I cannot wait, and so I sing. A lesson she has learned today, to serve her to her final day. So come, me lass cheer up, don’t cry. All will be well. Ye shall not die. The door awaits the final key. So speak the rhyme and call to me.” Laughter danced around her, bobbing in time to the distortion.
Thalia closed her eyes, thinking again. If memories served her in stumbling across the word, then memory could serve her again. She thought back to Zecora and the notes she had written down. If only she had paid more attention to the zebra. Still, he, that is to say the voice, said both of his hints were true. So whatever his name is would have to rhyme with please.
“That’s it, me girl. Think long and hard. Even the most cunning must pause to think at times.” Cunning. That’s it! She flashed back to Zecora’s words.
“Azeez is a cunning creature of fae. He loves to rhyme and loves to play. A challenge he always presents, to fit each race and creature bent on entering his garden sweet. To lay eyes on it is a special treat …” She could not recall the rest, but hopefully this would be enough. Surely, this must be the elusive Azeez.
“Oh please, oh please, most wise Azeez, will you not open your garden to me? My quest is just, my cause is pure. Please show yourself, and the path to the door. Please guide me and warn me with wisdom supreme. Please, help me. Please help me. Please, help me, Azeez.” And with the sound of shattering glass, the distortion broke. Flipping in the air and onto his hooves, a strange creature appeared, covered in hair with two straight horns curving over his wavy hair. It’s head was that of a goat with larger, intelligent eyes similar to the ponies, only more mischievous. His fur shone a russett brown in the sunlight and reflected his nature. An expertly carved walking stick portrayed an endless swirl of light and dark wood ending in two gnarled heads on the top. Its tip lay embedded in the ground, resting in one five fingered hoof tipped hand while the other lay held out in a grand gesture. An emerald green vest was buttoned up his torso and he played with one of the buttons as he doffed his matching cap, grinning all the while.
“Well done, lass. Well done indeed. In all me years, you’re the very first of your kind tae guess me riddle. I’ll help ye all I can. After all, me word is me bond. Azeez is the name. Azeez the satyr. At your service.” He doffed his cap and bowed dramatically, his little goat tail swishing with glee. Just behind him, a great wrought iron gate stood, staring starkly out at the world. “Welcome to me home, and welcome to me garden.”