//------------------------------// // 65 - Smells Like Rain // Story: An Extended Holiday // by Commander_Pensword //------------------------------// Extended Holiday Ch 65: Smells Like Rain Act 8 Vital Spark walked calmly through the hallway as the cool castle drafts brushed against his fur. It still felt a little strange to be just fur and hide, but by this point, he’d gotten pretty much used to it. His ears twitched and swiveled as he heard various whispers and snippets of conversation as he passed through the halls past various doors and Pony guards. He casually reviewed the letter that had popped up in his room one more time. ‘Vital, Come to my office. I have a few things to discuss with you when you have the free time. Keep in mind, this will take some time, so it’s for the best you show up after your workout. ~Hammer’ Vital sighed as he plodded up to Shawn’s office. He raised a hoof to knock only for a voice to stop him. “Don’t have to knock.” Vital sighed and pushed. The door gave way fairly easily with a light creak. “You called?” he asked as he trotted into the room, closing the door behind himself. Hammer Strike looked up from his desk, his coat placed on his chair. “Ah, Vital,” he motioned for him to take a seat. “So yeah, this is going to be a nice conversation.” “By nice, do you mean long, or do you mean unpleasant?” “Depending on how things go, both,” he started. “Great,” Vital said unenthusiastically as he plopped down on a chair. “So, I have a few things I want to go over before you leave this room, the primary thing being some advice.” “Survival, thaumaturgy, magic, or a little of everything?” “Advice on the mind is a primary thing, but yeah, a mix on most things. The first thing I want to talk about is how you act in Pony form and Human form.” Vital Spark raised a brow. “Act the same. I’d prefer you not argue with yourself because you created another mindset for a different form. At least, try not to that is. Matthew and Peter had that problem for a while due to an incident wiping their memories and having to grow up once again.” “Okay, fair enough. So what else?” “Two, I’m going to be teaching you some magic myself later this week.” “I thought you said I was supposed to avoid using it.” “You use it every time you cast a spell as a Unicorn. There is no avoiding it at this point in time,” Hammer told him, a slight frown on his face. “So now I need to learn to control it instead so I don’t accidentally hurt somepony in the process, then.” “The Thaumic field is interesting in a way. Think of it as a separate part of you relying mostly on your instincts or your logic for tasks in helping. When you perform magical feats, it adds its own power to the spell, enhancing it.” “And like any muscle, it only gets stronger the more I use it.” Hammer Strike nodded. “Another topic that I need to talk about is if we get the chance to go home. We won’t be staying, we being Grif, Pensword, and myself.” “You mentioned being stuck here and it had something to do with the field, right?” “My internal organs are being held together by the Thaumic Field around me. Fatal injuries that I shouldn’t have lived through were healed by the field. Grif suffered some injuries that he might be able to live through with medical help as soon as his magic dies off and even then he’ll have to deal with long term weakness. Pensword hasn’t had a fatal injury, but he is stuck in Pony form, his human form being dead.” “Ouch.” Vital winced. “But you’re still full. You haven’t been harmed enough to have this happen, and you still have a living human form. You have a chance that we don’t anymore.” “So basically, you’re trapped here.” “This is our life now. Equis will be where our history ends.” “But you can still make memories on Earth too, right?” “Memories of us will fade from Earth faster, friends and family will keep our names in memory until their time comes. The rest of the world will continue as it does.” “That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go home and see them!” Vital said stubbornly. “I never said we weren’t going back for a visit. I said we can’t stay.” “Yeesh! I wish you’d specify more, Shawn. You nearly gave me apoplexy.” “That’ll take time. I usually don’t have to explain many things, and if someone has tried to get more information, I’ve usually lied.” “How come?” “Sometimes it’s for the best to keep information from others, while other times it’s because I don’t want to say it.” “It’s not like they can use that information, can they? We’d just be telling them a little about our homes and our culture. It’s not like we have government secrets or something, right?” “Some of the information I know can be used against us. As for our home and culture, that’s one I honestly can’t remember much anyways. It’s been forty years since I’ve seen home.” “For some reason, I keep forgetting that fact.” Vital sighed. “You haven’t forgotten the important stuff though, right?” “For the most part, though my mind is primarily filled with other things. For example, who my allies are, things I need to work on, and who my enemies are.” “And with worrying about the rest of us, I take it?” Vital probed. “Correct.” “Sometimes I think you worry too much, and sometimes I wonder if it’s even enough. This world is really crazy.” “When I didn’t worry enough, I fell victim to a trap. Paranoia is what keeps us safe, even if I tend to go overboard sometimes...” “You’re not letting yourself get too paranoid though, right?” “If only. As said, when I’m not paranoid enough I’ve fallen into traps. I’d prefer to be over-paranoid than unprepared.” “Be careful not to let it consume you, Shawn. I’m serious. It’s not healthy. Not even for someone with as strong a psyche as you. And yes, I know I’m calling the kettle black here when I have my own things I’m working through right now, but still, the point stands.” “You’re too late on that, Conor. Years late.” “To quote an old favorite, ‘it’s not too late. It’s never too late.’” “You’re definitely late when it’s already happened.” Hammer finished, his expression gone flat. “I mean it’s not too late to change, Shawn. You’ll have to learn to let things go eventually. I think that may be one reason why I’m here, honestly.” “Can’t let go of certain things though.” “I can respect that. Everyone has to take their own time.” Vital sighed. “So you said you needed to teach me some tricks?” Hammer gave a dark grin. “And here we have our Crystal Empire exhibit. Shortly after the Third Gryphon War, the Crystal Empire suddenly disappeared from Equis. No one knew where the Crystal Ponies had disappeared to. Once the Ponies from Equestria cleared out, the Emperor sent in scouting teams to find out what had happened and admittedly, scavenge anything they could find. Crystal technology was incredibly advanced, as were their magics, most likely due to the fact that they had a Unicorn Queen.” He looked warily at Prince Cosy as the young Pony motioned for him to continue. “All of these relics around us were recovered from the ruins of the city and from the crystal caverns themselves lying beneath where it had been, as well as on the outskirts and mountains that surrounded the great city. We found many fragments of a peculiar black crystal and some evidence of explosive minerals, but nothing concrete enough to pull together what happened. However, as you can see, there were quite a few things the Ponies left behind. The rest of the artifacts were taken by the Emperor and reside within his palace. None save the young Emperor Daedalus knows what may have become of those treasures. As for the rest, well, I suppose the historians in our little gathering can ask the young prince here what happened.” . Pensword looked to Cosy, the question clear in his eyes. Cosy nodded, though it seems not many Gryphons were willing to come up to ask, whether out of embarrassment, a sense of superiority, or possibly a fear of what magics may have been used, they decided it was best to leave things be. The room was bedecked with all manner of artifacts from wagon wheels, to crystal gems, to a replica of the Empire put in diarama form. Some old damaged Crystal Pony armor was on display alongside a broken spear and dented shield. A few ragged books were on display in glass cases on pedestals. Then, towards the back of the room was a strange sort of crystal rock. On closer inspection, bits of colored crystal jutted out from various slots and holes and the dim sheen of well-worked metal shone dully in the torchlight from all the years it had been on display. “... I’ve never seen that before,” Cosy murmured as he walked up to the object in question. He barely made it to three quarters of its height. Pensword looked at the items as well. “Nor I.” He whispered. “What is this?” “Dunno.” The other Gryphons were all busy looking over other exhibits, even as Kel’leam continued his watchful guard over the two ponies. One of the crystals in the lower portion of the sphere seemed to be glowing faintly, and on an impulse, Cosy reached out and depressed it. Quicker than anything, the crystal dissipated into dust, flying onto his hoof and circling it before solidifying into a purple crystal bangle. A low hum emanated from the machine as the rest of the crystals glowed a little brighter. Pensword stood stock still as he witnessed the event. He didn’t know what to say; he didn’t even get a chance to stop the young prince. Nervously, he scanned the crowd, wondering how long it would be till the other Gryphons could hear the hum, or see the glow. “Excuse me, Prince Bellacosa, but should you be touching that if you aren’t aware what it does?” Kel’leam asked him quietly. Cosy looked back sheepishly. “Heh … probably not?” Pensword gave a long suffering sigh. Cosy heard him mutter something in Dragonic, “Why must everyPony I know touch things without thinking?” “... Are you mad at me, Uncle?” Cosy asked. Pensword paused as he looked at his nephew. “No,” Pensword whispered softly in Equestrian. “... We should probably go, shouldn’t we?” “Yes, we should leave.” Pensword wrapped a wing around Cosy and looked around the room for Kel’leam. “I think that we should return to the monastery.”  He took a breath, wondering when they would meet with Daedelus. As the trio walked out the doors to the Museum, an excited exclamation came from the gallery as various Gryphon guards dashed inside. “How long till the guards come talking to us?” Pensword asked the group as they walked into the courtyard. “They won’t if we move fast enough,” Kel’leam said as they made their way through the square towards the gates. “You think you can move a little faster?” Pensword asked Cosy. “Well, this is going to be fun I think.” Cosy looked less certain of that. “L-let’s just get back to the Monastery. We don’t wanna raise suspicion by rushing too fast, right?” Pensword only nodded his head as he looked around the courtyard. “Well, this has been fun.” Kel’leam sighed as he followed. Soon after they passed through the gates and made it to the monastery untouched. He let loose a silent prayer of thanks as they entered the monastery proper. Grif let out a groan as his muscles shouted at him in pain, angrily speaking out against their abuse. Several shallow cuts dotted his fur and around him the “ground” was littered with steel pellets. The quetzalcoatl was trying to teach him to manipulate air currents around his body to add another layer of defense. The exercise required him to use his swords as an anchor, but Grif was having trouble with his concentration while acting to defend himself. “No, no, definitely not,” The Quetzalcoatl quipped, shaking his head. “You’re putting too much thought into it, Grif. Let it happen naturally.” “Thought into what? They’re swords!” Grif sighed. “I still don’t even know what they're made from, okay? No magic metal can just act on it’s own.” “And what can, Avatar?” Quetzalcoatl asked as he lay on a cloud looking down on his pupil. “Some types of magic trees, enchanted objects but to a much limited degree…. dragons--” Grif looked at him. “Yes? Go on,” he said, motioning with a wing. “Deep magic…. the kind that only comes from blood,” Grif said. “Not the kind of thing I ever want connected to me.” “And why is that?” “Because a weapon formed because someone was tricked into believing they died for glory, or worse. Someone killed in terror isn’t something I believe in.” The Lord of the East Wind looked ponderingly at Grif. “... What do you know of your predecessor, Grif?” Grif shrugged. “Grask slew dragons. He also figured out how to manipulate magic, through you, as I am just now learning. He used these blades during his life to accomplish his exploits, and before he died, he trained a small group in his ways, though they were never able to fully exploit it… I believe his family died out before its fifth generation due to war and other tragedies,” he said, reciting from memory. “Would it surprise you to know Grask never came to me, young warrior?” “But then how did he have the East Wind behind him?” “He didn’t.” The Quetzalcoatl shrugged. “Okay, so how does it tie into these?” Grif asked holding up the swords. “I can’t tell you everything. It’s something you’ll have to learn for yourself. I can only tell you the blades are sentient. Work with them. Get to know them. They chose you and they will respond to you if you are willing to trust them. As for Grask himself, it will suffice me to say he was not raised by Gryphonkind, but rather another.” “At least tell me this,” Grif said. “Was the blood of an innocent spilled for these weapons?” Grif asked. The Quetzalcoatl was mute for a time as he pondered the question. “... No,” he said. “It was not spilled.” “Then I can live with it,” Grif said. He took a blade in each hand and breathed deeply, letting his mind clear as he felt the familiar flow of magic like water into the swords. “Again,” he said. The wind picked up around him, grabbing the pellets into it and began to throw them at Grif with varying velocities. While Grif deflected one from his face, another shot at his arm before being pushed away by a heavy draft. He smiled as he continued the exercise. “Good, good,” the Quetzalcoatl said as he applauded with his wings before increasing the hail of stone and metal. “Now let’s see what you can really do.” Pensword poked his head up from the pillow. He blinked owlishly as he mentally checked his mind. “Who is knocking at the door at three A.M.?” He groaned as he crawled out of the bed and moved to the door. “Who is there?” he ordered, half slurred. He had gotten use to being protected by the religious laws, so he had relaxed his guard a little. “Excuse me, commander,” a piping voice said. “The emperor's emissary has come to request some time for organizing an audience.” Pensword was instantly alert. “Right, I will be there…” he paused and sighed before he grabbed his helmet and opened the door. “Okay, lead the way.” He turned back to the room to gaze on Cosy’s sleeping form. “Do they need the Prince?” “He should be present, yes.” The monk nodded his head. Pensword nodded and turned around. Placing a hoof to Cosy’s side, he began to shake him awake. “Come on, we have a meeting.” He muttered under his breath. “Why at three A.M., I do not know.” Cosy yawned and murmured in his sleep, but eventually opened his eyes blearily as he carefully rose from the covers. He rubbed his eyes to wakefulness and blinked owlishly at the messenger. A few minutes later, they were standing in the entrance hall as they looked at three veiled and shadowed Gryphons. Beneath their cloaks, the emperor’s seal was emblazoned on their breastplates. “These are the Heaven Claw,” the monk said. “They are the emperor's most trusted confidants and agents. Given the enemies of both you and Grif, not to mention the emperor himself, and the dangerous situation of the prince, Emperor Daedalus thought that these arrangements for your meeting should best be done in secrecy.” “So when does he want to meet with me?” Cosy asked as he looked to the Gryphon at the front of the group. “My emperor can grant you access to the palace within three days’ time,” the Gryphon started before looking around. “Where is the Avatar?” “The Avatar received a calling to the Southern Summits with his new bride to receive the south wind’s blessing,” one of the monks spoke up suddenly. “He will be detained for the next few days.” “But he will be present when you two meet with the emperor?” the Gryphon asked. “Of course. He wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Cosy said as he looked to the guard. “What can we expect when we arrive?” “Crowded waiting rooms, snobby nobles, and even royals demanding petty things.” The Gryphon sighed. “Unfortunately, the court operates on a first come first serve basis based on the importance of the audience. It may be some time before you may see the emperor once you are inside.” “I take it diplomats aren’t exactly high on the list,” Cosy said. “Considering our diplomacy has led us to constant war on two fronts and eternal odds with Equestria,” the Gryphon sighed almost tiredly as he mentioned wars, “perhaps that is a blessing.” “You might be right.” Cosy sighed. “What about the Avatar of Winds though?” “If the Avatar shows up, the emperor may be able to move you up by requiring his guidance,” the Gryphon hummed, scratching his chin. “Then we’ll go with it that way. The Winds Father is dead, so Grif’s the next best thing, right?” “The Winds Father is dead?” The Gryphon looked to the monks, who nodded. “Well that’s certainly a shocking development. When you arrive at the palace, ask for me by name,” the Gryphon said. “What is your name?” Pensword asked. “I am Jorund. Jorund Bloodfeather,” he stated as he pulled back his hood to reveal a very young Gryphon, around Grif’s age if Pensword could judge anything. The commander trembled violently at the name as the face of his family’s killer rose to haunt him yet again. The red feathers, the gold accents, those eyes. So similar, and yet so different. “But--” Pensword choked out, his body and face unable to hide the shock. “YOU. ARE. DEAD!” The Gryphon recoiled in confusion and fear, the cloaked figures beside him obviously reaching for concealed weapons. The monks put their talons out, trying to remind both sides that blood could not be split within their gates. Pensword did not reach for his weapon, nor any form of attack. He was trembling. “You hung till you were dead. I saw you eat my family. I tore the wings from your body personally and buried you in a Pony grave. HOW CAN YOU STAND BEFORE ME? ” Pensword roared. “I have only just met you,” the Gryphon retorted. “And the Bloodfeathers haven’t fed on Pony flesh since before the reformation,” he said. “I swear it on my own wings.” “I wiped out the Bloodfeather Clan in the par,” Pensword began then paused. “... The news never made it back.” He blinked as he glowered. “Do you know just what that name means? What it represents?” He growled, venom dripping from his words. “That name led the complete destruction of a town. Your Namesake gave birth to the Demon!” “My great grandfather reformed the clan under his bloodline when no one from our family returned from the Third Gryphon War.” The Gryphon stood his ground “The name is an old family name, nothing more. We had only mad ramblings from those who fled the village nearby as to what happened at Triumph. No Gryphon knows what happened to those inside.” “Because I did not allow any to escape!” Pensword snapped in anger. He sputtered as his mind caught once more on that idea. “None escaped. None escaped.” He stared at the Grypon, the image, the image of that blasted Commandant, who … who dared to--. With a great show of effort, he managed to force an expression of calm. “You have no idea what I am saying, do you?” he finally asked. “Whatever was done to wrong you, I had no part in it,” Jorund said. “I swear I would never have taken part in any such thing.” “You may not, but the-- you are the specter of my demon,” Pensword growled. “You do not know what happened, what sparked the war? Let me tell you.” His countenance had darkened, his tone turned grim. “Jorund Bloodfeather was the Commandant of Fort Triumph. In the years leading up to the official invasion, he led raiding parties into Equestria to silence towns or posts that could lead to early alerts. I was in cadet training, staying ready to be deployed into the employ of a Lord, when I dreamt and lived the deaths of my entire village. Your namesake personally killed my father, mother, brother, sister, and the mayor of my town, Mountainside Falls. Then he ate their flesh. I descended upon those ruins like an avenging spirit and wiped out every single Gryphon stationed there. I blazed a trail of damnation upon your armies till I took your military gem, Fort Triumph. Jorund Bloodfeather, by his actions, created your great Demon.” In a flurry of motion, Pensword was rushed into a pair of strong talons in a powerful embrace as fresh tears matted his fur. The large Gryphon was hugging him…. and weeping openly, something Grif had noted was a major taboo in Gryphon culture. “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.” The Gryphon sobbed into his shoulders, much to the shock of many present. Pensword was frozen, locked up, tensed, and downright unable to comprehend what was happening. He was being hugged and wept upon by his enemy, but the one that… he chocked a little as his brain locked up and gears ground to a halt trying to comprehend this inexplicable course of action. This was unheard of. As his brain struggled to reboot, his body loosened against his will, taking the embrace. “For what it’s worth, your actions saved my family,” the Gryphon spoke even as he cried and embraced him. “My great grandfather was clanless and starving before it was discovered he was the last of the Bloodfeathers. Because Jorund and his daughter never returned, my great grandfather survived, thrived, and remade the clan into something I hope was better,” Jorund said. “In a very real sense, your actions saved my life.” Pensword blinked as he words washed over him, surged back, pooled over his head, and sank into his brain. What was happening? He opened his muzzle, closed it, opened it, closed it, and tried to speak, but no words came. He stiffened as he saw his Jorund appear as a specter in the corner, looking like he was going to have a conniption. clearly he had been hoping for a revenge killing. “Do the Bloodfeathers promise never to wage war against the Pen family?” Pensword asked haltingly. He slowly began returning the hug as something started slipping back into place. “Maybe we should try keeping this particular part of your family history a secret? This could be bad for you, after all,” he stated bluntly. “If you ever ask it of us, my clan shall march at your order,” the Gryphon returned. Pensword gulped at that thought. He felt something else break, and for the first time in a long time his stiff upper lip trembled and he began to sniff as he fully embraced the hug. He broke down as old wounds reopened and he realized at one time he would have rejoiced at this, used it to his advantage. But now … now it just didn’t feel right. “I’m sorry,” Jorund said, wiping his eyes as he backed off. “The death of my father still weighs heavily upon me.” A cluster of monks had gathered in the hall, drawn by the echoing tirade Pensword had unleashed. Their beaks dropped at the sight of a proud clan leader who had just collapsed in tears and appeared to be extending a hand of brotherhood to The Demon of the Third Gryphon War. Pensword blinked as his feathers ruffled and he felt something like static electricity around his fur. “Tell me who they were and I shall bring ruin upon them.” He knew just what he was referring to. “This time… I will be more focused in my rage and anger.” “Keep it for when you need it,” Jorund spoke softly. “There is much trouble in the empire. A foul wind is blowing. Last time it took out our beloved emperor and his wife. Now I fear they mean to destroy Daedalus as well. I was hoping to discuss this with the Avatar, but if he is away, it cannot be helped.” Pensword slowly looked at the Grypon with a confused tilt of his head. “So the Gryphons no longer fear me? Why the mural?” “You are still only one Pony, if you will forgive my bluntness,” Jorund replied. “And to be honest, you have no public reason to support the emperor. You and Grif are simply wild cards. Others will try to sway you.” “I made my choice; Daedalus stays. I like him based on what I have heard at least. I think he has what is needed for the future. Still, I shall send word the moment that Grif returns from his, well, whatever it is that he is doing.” “Do not make that public yet,” Jorund warned as he shook his red head. “Let them try to sway you so that they may reveal themselves to you. Perhaps more can be saved if we know the face of our enemies.” “Very well,” Pensword responded with a sly smirk. “I look forward to listening to what they have to say. And what they might try to get an enemy to recognize that they are true Gryphons.” “Politics is really complex, isn’t it?” Cosy asked, his expression one of complete confusion as he looked around the room. The adults stared down at him for a moment before the room exploded in laughter. “Sometimes the youngest of us see the true wisdom,” one of the monks said. Cosy cocked his head, confused at the sudden outburst. “What’d I say?” Hammer Strike walked alongside Rarity as they made their way out of the Everfree Forest. “I’m really so glad you agreed to come with me, Hammer Strike. The spa simply isn’t any fun without a friend, and all the other girls weren’t available.” “No problem. I didn’t have anything to do,” Hammer replied with a grin as he thought back on the door to his forge. He couldn’t help but wonder why The Doctor decided to park his TARDIS there. “Have you ever been to a spa before?” she asked. “Never in my lives.” “Excellent! That means we get to show you a new experience and still have fun. I can get a facial and you can get a nice deep tissue massage. I hear Bulk Biceps is very good,” she said as she continued to talk about the various treatments and other aspects involved with Ponyville’s famous spa. “I’m going to be able to keep my coat on, right?” “Of course not, darling. It’s a massage after all. You get your own special clothing to wear.” “I’m suddenly having strong second thoughts,” he said softly, the tone of his voice shifting for a split second. “Oh, come on now, it’s not so bad,” Rarity said as she took one of his forelegs in hers as she walked along, continuing to pull Hammer Strike behind. … He let her. As they approached, what can only be described as a valentine cutout crossed with macrame and a bad castle impression stood before them with tall, pointed rooftops, accented by Fleur De Lis and a large metal windvane crown. The roof itself was a light purple with a flowing wooden design over the door frame to appear like curtains. Hanging above the heart engraved door was a sign showing an earth Pony mare with a flowing mane and tail, dark green flowers, a horseshoe, and a light green background. Hammer Strike couldn’t help but eye the building. “Is that it?” “Yes, but I assure you, it’s much more chic on the inside. This is just designed to catch the eye and give it a more pleasant country kind of appeal while still striking with a formal elegance. And their facials are simply to die for,” she gushed. “I’ll… take your word on it.” “Well, come on, darling. Your pampering awaits.” She smiled as her horn lit up and the door opened magically to admit them. “Well hello, darlings, and how is our favorite customer today?” A cerulean Earth Pony with a bright pink mane and a lotus petal cutiemark greeted them cheerfully with her Geremane accent as she walked up, her cream headband holding her mane back to maintain focus and precision in her work. “We’re here for the whole package, Lotus,” Rarity said, grinning. “WHAT?” Lotus exclaimed. “But isn’t that going to put you and your shop behind, Rarity?” “Oh, don’t worry about that, Lotus,” Rarity giggled before dashing up next to her ear and whispering. “Hammer Strike is paying.” Then she zipped back to her Pony companion. Lotus looked speculatively at the two, then she smiled. “One complete Celestial Package Deluxe coming right up. And are we making this a couples session?” she asked, raising her eyebrows in a knowing manner. “That sounds fine,” Hammer Strike responded. “Then come with me,” Lotus said as she clopped along the floor of the strangely bigger-on-the-inside establishment. “One day I will learn the trick of having more space than visually possible on the outside…” Hammer Strike muttered to himself. “Here we are. You can go change in there. And once you are ready, we will start the treatment.” Lotus motioned to the two curtained doorways, one marked “Mares,” the other marked “Stallions.” “Might as well note it now, this isn’t going to be a wonderful sight,” Hammer Strike commented. “Oh, please, Hammer Strike, you’re one of the most desired bachelors in all of Equestria. I doubt anything about you could be considered unpleasant,” Rarity said. “Give it a minute or two and you’ll change your mind.” With that said, the two entered their respective places to get out of their garb. Rarity, having chosen not to wear a dress that day, merely had to remove her earrings and was out rather quickly. Hammer Strike couldn’t help but remove his coat slower than he normally would, even folding it before he put it off to the side in one of the many cubby holes made available. He did the same thing with his vest. Upon unbuttoning his shirt, he sighed to himself one last time before removing it and hanging it up on one of the hangers provided. “Hammer Strike, darling, is everything alright in there?” Rarity’s sweet voice called from the other side of the curtain. “Just ... bracing for the inevitable,” Hammer Strike responded as he parted the curtain, revealing himself to the group. “Oh my,” Rarity said as Hammer Strike made his way out, his body bare to the scrutiny of the spa and its staff. “Why no wonder you wanted the Celestial treatment, dearie,” Lotus said as she eyed the scars. “We have all the right techniques for physical recuperation. We can have those scars gone in a jiffy.” “...I’d prefer you not. I am fine with making them not so hard to look at, but, not with removing them.” “... Well, I suppose if that’s what you want. We’ll talk oils and potions when it’s time for your massage. For now, let the treatment begin.” Rarity looked ponderously at Hammer Strike. “I take it there’s something you haven’t told me.” “Sorry to say, but I’ve actually told you the primary cause for this,” Hammer replied as he looked at her and paused, thinking to himself for a split moment. “Perhaps afterwards, I’ll tell you more. Whatever you want to know that is.” “If these come from what I think they do, you don’t have to say another word.” Rarity placed a gentle hoof on Hammer Strike’s shoulder. “We’ll see how things go.” He gave a weak grin as the two walked together to their first initial spa treatment:  getting their hooves filed. “I said let me out,” Black Rook growled as he struggled in an attempt to get the current restraints on his body loose enough to escape. “I’m fine.” “You’ll be staying right where you are, Black Rook,” Little Willow said firmly as she looked down at her chart. “You still have a concussion and I am not about to let you go out where you can hurt yourself before you’re properly recovered.” “Willow, you know I don’t need to be here,” Rook growled. “I need to get back to training.” “And what do you think my brother would do if he heard I’d let you out before you were ready? I’ve already had to rearrange my infirmary once after the siege. I’d rather not have to a second time.” “You love hiding behind Grif in these situations, don’t you?” he said sullenly. “It’s not hiding; It’s a fact. Now get over yourself and drink this. I need to make a supply run to Ponyville. When I get back, I expect you to be more relaxed. Tension only makes the body heal slower, you know.” She shoved a foul smelling concoction into Rook’s face as he grimaced. “An old Zebra recipe, courtesy of Zecora,” she said by way of explanation. “Now drink.” Begrudgingly, Rook took the concoction and slowly drank until it was empty. “Good. That should speed things up,” she said as she put the cup on an empty tray. “Now be good, Rook, or so help me, I’ll give you Tartarus when I get back.” Rook rolled his eyes as he waited for her to leave. He waited an extra ten minutes until he was certain she wasn’t coming back before he spit out the shard of clay from the bowl holding the concoction. He looked it over carefully, noting the sharper edge before taking the other side into his mouth and slowly moving the edge along his restraints. “Alright, boys, let’s get to that run,” Conor said as he finished his five pull ups and stretches. He still wore his normal gym clothes for now, but he was determined to catch up with the rest of the herd as he readied himself to pass through the Everfree. “Everyone all accounted for?” “Rook’s supposed to still be out,” one of the others noted, “so it’s just us and you today.” “Right then. Let’s form rank and get started.” Conor nodded, his face already flushed from the blood pumping in the warm-up. “Alright, colts, form up,” a familiar voice spoke as Rook trotted up to them. “It’s time to go for a run.” “Sir, aren’t you still supposed to be in bed?” one of the cadets asked. “I was released early,” Rook said. “Now let’s get warmed up.” Conor sighed. “Are you really going to put me through this, Rook?” “Same as I’ve been putting you through since we started. You should be able to do the entire run without armor by the time Grif gets back,” Rook said, clearly not seeing the look on Conor’s face. “You’re right, I will. And you’ll be able to see me do it once you’re done recovering.” “I told you I’m clear,” Rook said. “And I’m calling your bluff,” Conor said, pulling out two letters. The first was clearly in Grif’s writing. The other was written with the official infirmary seal. “Grif put me in charge till you’re better, and Willow dropped this off before she left. So please, Black Rook, just go back to the infirmary.” “Those are forgeries,” Black Rook said unconvincingly. “Are you calling me a liar?” Conor asked coolly as his eyes hardened. “You’ve obviously been deceived,” Rook said. “Now let’s get going. Time’s wasting.” Conor looked sternly at Rook and pointed back to the castle. “Infirmary. Now.” “You aren’t my mother,” Rook growled. “Okay, first of all, that’s pathetic, and you know it, Rook. You’re better than that. Secondly …” A grim, practically sinister smile crept over Conor’s face. “You know, Rook, I’m still smarting after that little stunt you pulled with me back when I was first starting out.” “I did what had to be done.” “And now so am I. Bruiser!” Conor called. The same grey Earth Pony from before made his way towards the pair. “Yes?” Bruiser asked. “Please escort Black Rook back to the infirmary. Use any means you deem necessary as long as you don’t hurt him. I’d rather not be on Willow’s bad side.” “Sir.” Bruiser saluted as he turned to his commander, and in a manner very similar to what he did with the human, threw Black Rook up in the air so he landed on his back and started plodding away. “This isn’t over!” Rook called as he was hauled away. “Payback’s a real pain, isn’t it, Rook?” Conor said, smiling as he waved. “Make sure to watch him until Willow gets back, got it, Bruiser?” Bruiser turned once and nodded before returning to his course for the infirmary. Conor turned back to the Rohirrim. “Alright, mares and gentlecolts, let’s get into gear. Form ranks and fall out!” “Good morning, everyone.” Clover looked at the assembled unicorns before her. The ones who came off guard duty had been instructed to remove their armor, which was now piled neatly in the back. Before every one of them was a small metal sphere. Trixie and Vital found themselves stationed in the center front line. “Today you begin training in magic. Now, I witnessed your performance during the siege and I just have to say--” she looked across at all of them. “--it was pathetic.” Trixie bristled before bowing her head as she fought old habits. Meanwhile a few of the Unicorns looked like they were about to say something when Silver Spear stepped forward. “You are correct.” He spoke loudly. “I’m sure I speak for all the troops when I say that we look forward to the lessons so we can become better. I needn’t remind the others just who you are and who you studied under.” Several of the Unicorn guards who had begun to raise objections suddenly looked very sheepish as they rubbed their forelegs. Clover continued, unfazed. “Years ago, even Gamma Class Unicorns could perform shield spells and hurl boulders, yet I saw groups of you out there struggling to hold barriers while group casting, and there isn’t a single Gamma among you,” she said. “Today, we’re going to be testing your limits, seeing how hard I can push you safely. In front of each of you is Sir Apple Hooton's arcane gravity sphere. Is anyone here familiar with what this sphere does?” she asked. Trixie raised a hoof slowly, looking around her nervously. In the past, she would have declared it without hesitation, but now, now she knew she needed to try to reign in. “Yes?” clover asked her. “It gets heavier the longer you hold it in your magic,” Trixie answered. “Very good, Trixie.” Clover nodded. “This sphere feeds off the magic used in the levitation spell to become denser and heavier. The purpose of this exercise is to gauge how long you can hold it so I can know the limits of your magical field. You are not expected to hold this sphere until you pass out, but you will hold it until you can no longer stand.” “Um … is there an average time we should aim for?” Vital asked nervously. “If you cannot make ten seconds, you should not be in the military. Most average Gamma Unicorns can do 45 seconds. Betas last about a minute. Alphas can do between ten minutes and an hour,” she explained. “Though you should simply go for as long as you can.” Trixie looked around. “When can we start?” She asked with a small smirk. Silver Spear looked at the ball, taking up a defensive stance as though he were about to face a foe on the sparing floor. Vital Spark braced himself for the worst, remembering the training he’d faced thus far and the way he’d been able to send the changelings flying in the battle. He was nervous, but he hoped he’d be able to do well. The other Unicorns likewise took up their positions as they prepared for the test. “Begin.” Clover nodded, picking up three such spheres in front of her as she patiently held them in her magic. Hesitantly, Vital lit up his horn as the sphere before him slowly began to rise into the air. It was surprisingly light at first and he smiled. Maybe it wouldn’t be so hard after all. Then came the strain as his horn suddenly began to feel weighed down. His neck strained and trembled as beads of sweat began to stand out on his forehead while he struggled to hold the ball in his blue aura. Silver Spear picked up the ball. Much to his surprise, it felt too light. He was unsure what was happening. He felt the weight increase, but it wasn’t unbearable. All the same, he remained tense, ready for any surprise tricks this “new opponent” might have for him. Trixie picked up the ball and waited, her magic supporting the weight with little trouble, even as it continued to grow. Vital trembled where he stood as the ball gradually grew in size and slowly dropped toward the floor. His knees began to shake against his will as he grit his teeth, determined to keep the ball raised as long as possible. He would learn magic, and he would be the best he could be. He had to be. He couldn’t let what happened to Black Rook happen again. Groaning, his horn light wavered briefly before flashing bright again as the ball rose back up to its original height. Silver Spear grunted. He didn’t know how many seconds had passed, but he was too focused on not failing the ten seconds to keep track. Trixie herself was still unfazed as she looked back to see a few Unicorns sweating heavily. The last time she had performed this test, she had made fifteen minutes. She enjoyed a brief warm feeling as she recalled her mother's look of pride that day. At last, Vital could hold it no more, and much like when he was moving heavy furniture back on Earth as his human self, he could feel the ball slipping from his magical “fingers” as the weight became too much. He bent low, squatting as he struggled to keep the ball afloat, just barely avoiding the cobbled stones as the light of his horn faded before finally going out. He collapsed on the ground, exhausted. Silver Spear grunted and the ball clattered to the table. He panted and shook from the exercise. It felt like he had used his magic for the first time in his life. Trixie smiled consolingly at Vital spark as she continued the first minute, passing easily as the sphere continued to float. Clover the Clever, meanwhile, was idly juggling her three spheres as she watched. Several more groans were heard in succession as, little by little, the other Unicorns buckled. Trixie and Clover were left alone holding their spheres.Two minutes, five minutes, ten minutes rolled by without either showing a sign of strain yet. Finally, at fifteen minutes, sweat began to bead on Trixie’s brow as the weight mounted past her previous threshold. By twenty minutes her knees shook beneath her as she struggled, and at the twenty five minute mark the sphere hit the ground with a hollow thud as she sunk to her for knees. Clover didn’t release her spheres as she strolled through them. “Not bad,” she said as she looked around the gathering. “There is a lot of potential within this group. Now that I have a gauge for each of your potentials, I am going to split you up into groups tonight based on your current magical limit. From there, I will begin constructing an arcane-based workout and lesson plan accordingly.” She turned to Trixie. “Trixie, when I am not teaching you and you are not studying, you will be my aid and help the others should I be occupied.” Trixie gasped in shock. “You want Trixie to help the almighty Clover?” She blushed and bowed her head. “Trixie would be honored.” “I am many things, Trixie,” Clover laughed heartily as she looked at the blue Unicorn, “but I am no goddess. We all have limits; some of us have just learned ways to extend them.” Trixie bowed her head. “What do you wish for Trixie to do?” “I take it you’ve had some more in-depth magical schooling than the others?” Clover asked. “Trixie has had a little extra training,” she answered warily. “Good. Get started by explaining to Silver Spear and Vital Spark about the magical conservation theory. I will start dividing the others into their groups.” Rarity sighed in pleasure as she propped her hooves up on the wooden platform while she luxuriated in the steam. This was one of the few times she allowed her hair to lose its form and style as she breathed the jasmine scent Lotus had added to the water with the assistance of a few drops of oil. “Oh, Hammer Strike, isn’t this just perfect?” “I don’t get it.” “The steam, darling. It helps open the pores to cleanse impurities and relaxes the muscles with the heat. Why, if Granny Smith were to come here, she’d look twenty years younger. … You don’t need to tell her I said that.” “Heat? It feels like it’s room temperature in here…” “Room temperature? Are you sure? It’s nearly 180 degrees in here,” she said as the sweat ran down her flanks. “Ah, that explains it,” Hammer Strike hummed in thought. “Considering from what Celestia and myself tested, I could pretty much sit in molten metal like it was a hot tub.” “Oh dear. If we can’t get you nice and relaxed, how are you going to be ready for your massage?” “I’m going to wish them the best of luck,” he responded with a short chuckle. “Well …” Rarity said as she sidled closer, her towel still wrapped around her. “Is there anything I can do to help?” “Just you being here helps.” He gave a grin. “Oh, Hammer Strike.” Rarity blushed. “You should smile more often. It ... really brings out the light in your eyes.” She stared into the pit of coals and grew even redder. “But the more I smile, the less special it is.” “Hammer Strike, a smile is always special, no matter who does it or how many times. And … being with you … it’s always special.” Rarity eeked and jumped in the air as Aloe ladled a few more servings of water onto the hot rocks. Her face looked as red as a cherry when she landed on Hammer Strike. Aloe giggled as she walked off to find her sister. Hammer Strike wrapped a hoof around her, that small grin still on his face as he shifted his muzzle by her ear. “Until the day I’m gone, you have little to worry about. For I will be there by your side.” Rarity was speechless, her breathing light as her heart fluttered in her chest. What could she say? How should she act? This was a true Lord of Equestria. Well, she had just been dubbed a noble, but still, she was new, he was experienced and handsome, and perfect and just … just … before she knew it, she’d locked her lips to Hammer Strike’s. Her eyes widened as she pulled back. “I … I-I-I’m so sorry,” she said. “I … I didn’t mean to--well, that is to say … oh, sweet Celestia, what have I done?” Hammer Strike took her chin in his hoof and lifted to make her look at him as he pulled her closer. Then, as she was about to go into another gibbering explosion of verbal nonsense, he moved in and locked his lips with hers. Rarity breathed sharply, growing tense, then relaxed in his embrace. When the kiss was finished, they parted slowly and Hammer Strike looked deep into her glimmering eyes. “You’ve done nothing wrong. In fact, I’m actually happy.” “H-h-happy?” Rarity asked, still a little dazed. “I’m happy that you feel this way. That you aren’t afraid of me. That you’re here by my side.” “Oh, Hammer Strike,” Rarity said as she hugged him. “You have no idea how long I’ve waited to hear those words.” “And you have no idea how long I’ve waited to say them.” Rarity casually used her magic as the levitated the water bucket over the hot rocks, dumping it all at once and completely concealing them in a veil of steam. “Well,” Grif looked to Avalon as he crawled out of the hidden staircase before offering a talon. “You think anyone noticed we were gone?” he asked. Three days of training had taken their toll. His black feathers were ruffled and mussey, and his eyes showed a considerable amount of fatigue. Despite this, he had a cheerful air about him. “Well, I’d say probably so,” she said as she took the proffered talon to get up the last few steps as the stones slowly ground shut behind them. “Pensword’s certainly not going to be too thrilled. Though considering the circumstances, he’ll likely understand once we explain. Still, to think that he was here the whole time for all these years.” “Seems to me like it’s the last place anyone would look,” Grif noted. “There are probably more than a few people out there who’d love to hunt down a demi-god” “Good point. And this is supposed to be the Winds’ domain, not necessarily that of their children. What better place to hide than in a parent’s shadow?” “Yeah,” Grif replied. “Probably best if we keep this on a need-to-know basis.” He looked to the snowy owl on her back. “Which means we’ll probably need a good story regarding your new friend.” “That’s easy enough,” she shrugged. “I’ll just say she was my pet back home and she flew after me when I tried to leave her behind.” “I guess that works.” Grif laughed as they left the library, walking steadily until they found themselves at a balcony. Waiting across the narrow gap between this balcony and another was pensword. “Where have you been?” He asked. He looked ruffled and downright antsy. “We have to arrive at court tomorrow morning before the sun rises if we want a chance to meet with the Emperor.” He took a breath. “Also ... HE LIVES!!!!” he shouted before taking a calming breath. Letting it out slowly. “Somehow, the Bloodfeathers still lived and--” he paused. “I will explain on the way to the briefing.” “Deep breaths, Pensword,” Grif said as he and Avalon glided the gap to Pensword’s balcony. “Jorund isn’t anything like his ancestor.” “You try to keep calm when this Jorund is the spitting image of the one that I hung dead,” Pensword responded with a growl. “I know he is not able to help it, but he is. He looks just like him.” He took a breath in and let it out of his nose. “Still, let me tell you what I know.” “Can we find a place to sit down first?” Grif asked. “Of course,” Pensword responded. “I think there will be an empty room on the way to the dining hall. Also, the Avatar of Winds might help with getting us up in the line.” The group made their way to the room, finding an area set with a few large cushions, which the three of them promptly took advantage of. Grif slumped gratefully while Avalon sat daintily, smiling at her husband in a knowing manner. Pensword simply took in their appearances and cocked his head, confused. Upon seeing them there a monk urgently made his way over and, at Grif’s behest, left to get them some refreshments. “So, dawn tomorrow, you said?” Grif asked. “Yes.” Pensword nodded. “Tomorrow is when things will get crazy.” “Did you and Bellacosa go to the air shipyard yet?” Grif asked. “Yesterday. Today is when we finish the papers and pick up the ship. Cosy picked it out.” “Small and fast?” “Yes. There is room for a few extra folks on top of Avalon’s entourage.” “My entourage?” Avalon asked, confused as platters of various meats and cheeses were brought before them and laid on the ground. As an extra treat, a small cage filled with three mice was carried in for Snowy to feed on alongside her mistress. The trio casually began to eat and Avalon held the squirming mouse up for Snowy to snap up. “Well, those were Cosy’s words,” Pensword said between bites. “He knows that most of your entourage is not coming with. However, he used this to try not to draw too much attention.” Pensword shrugged. “He just has this feeling that we might need a few extra bunks.” “I suppose that’s well and good for now. We can come up with an excuse for it later if my ‘entourage’ doesn’t show up.” Snowy shook her head and hooted on her mistress’ shoulder. “Yes, Snowy, I quite agree. The boy has some promise, but he still needs a little polish.” “What about arms? Forward harpoon launchers? Ballistas?” Grif asked. “We may have to leave under fire.” “Two forward harpoon launchers, a rear swivel deck cannon, and three Ballistas on the top deck. We also have a lightning discharge system on the bottom. It almost looks like a small World War One Coast Guard Cutter.” “Good. So, do we have any ideas on our enemy?” Grif asked. “All I know for sure is that it’s one of the kings, though others may be involved as well.” “No clue, but I fear that they are already in the city. We do have Gryphons from one King Draknor. Do you know anything about him?” Pensword asked. “He came to visit the monastery. I have no clue if he is part of the plot or not. I just hope things can finish without too much bloodshed. “If he’s coming to the monastery then likely he was looking for the Winds Father,” Grif said, “which makes sense. No king rose to become emperor without the help of the Winds Father.” “And any who tried were soon found dead either by poison, assassin, or if they’re really bad, asphyxiation by The Winds,” Avalon said. “So, we should be okay? Because the Winds Father is dead and they need to appoint a new one. That should buy us some time for any moves we need to make, right?” “Not entirely.” Grif sighed. “Now they’ll either be looking to befriend us, or kill us, too” “It’s standard Gryphon politics,” Avalon said as she stroked Snowy’s neck. The owl in question had made purchase on the pillow next to her mistress and leaned pleasantly into the strokes, letting out an occasional hoot of pleasure as she digested her freshly consumed meal. “Well, I guess we will be getting visits today?” Pensword asked. “Likely after our first audience,” Grif said. “They won’t try anything until the details of the Winds Father are made public knowledge.” “Understood.” Pensword sighed. “That will be one sour fruit bat.” “So tomorrow is likely to be a very long day,” Grif said. “I’d tell you to pick two guards for Bellacosa and tell everyone to be armed.” “I shall do so. One Crystal and one Thestral,” Pensword answered. “Moon Biter should do well.” “Good choice.” Grif nodded. “Don’t take this the wrong way, but I’ll be having six Gryphons with us.” “I do not mind. I trust your Gryphons,” Pensword answered. “Good. Now I am in need of some serious sleep,” Grif said, “and so is Avalon. We will talk some more tomorrow.” Grif yawned, heading towards the door. Avalon followed beside as Snowy circled around the pair on silent wings while various acolytes came to clear the platters. Grif turned but once as he was about to pass through the stone archway that led to the main hall. “Can you cope?” Pensword sighed heavily. “Why not? Been doing it the last three days.” Blueblood estate was a bustle of activity as one of the smaller ballrooms hosted a noble gathering. Tables and cushions stood in an orderly array as nobles dined, gossipped, and ordered various servants around, creating a din that would prevent any good eavesdropping. To the sharp-eared servant, little snatches of conversation were often prevalent. “Impossible--this was not meant to happen--How did the past get involved--Has anyPony seen my bananas?” “Order!” Baron Blueblood said, stomping his hoof on the solid oaken table before him. “EveryPony, calm down, please. Attention. Attention! This gathering of the Nobles of Opportunistic Bureaucracy is called to order!” The din quieted down till the room was silent while the servants exited the ballroom. A light blue Unicorn with a blond mane and tail stood up. “I, Baron Sharp Spear, wish to speak of a problem that has cropped up in the past few months that seems to be growing worse by the day.” “Baron Spear is recognized,”  Baron Blue Blood nodded to the stallion. “As we all know, we gave Celestia the idea to let these unknown creatures train some troops to keep them busy. We gave them the worst of the worst:  washouts and undesirables. The original intent was to keep them tired, occupied, and butting heads with one another. However, a recent letter has brought about a massive concern in this matter. “My son, who wanted to play soldier, has flat out refused my offer to take up the family business outside of the guard. He is actually having the gumption to say he is happy and fulfilling his cutie mark. A Silver Spear is meant to be a financial weapon, not a physical one. Yet these humans have somehow convinced him and all the other dropouts that they were meant to fight. My own son defied a direct order. My own son!” Silver spear scoffed. “If we don’t do something, and soon, everything we’ve worked so hard to gain will be in grave jeopardy, my lords. I believe that these humans, these creatures, these savages, intend to militarize our peaceful nation yet again. Do you have any idea what that would do to our enterprises?” “And what would you suggest, Baron Spear?” Blueblood asked. “That is why I asked for this meeting. We don’t know how to proceed. It doesn’t help that we’ve learned we have high ranking members of the Lunar Court staying in New Unity at the moment. We need a united front to show our wayward sons and daughters.” “Yes. And it doesn’t help that Lord Hurricane and Fancy Pants are both still against us,” Baron Cookie said. Baron Spear sighed “Does anyPony have any ideas?” Dutchess Pansy stood up. “I would suggest a few ideas. However, with House Strike active once again, and the Gryphons raising Tartarus with Grif’s return, and Luna--” She paused. “There is one option. With the birth in--” she made a not too pleasant sound. “--House Pen, we have an opportunity. What if we move to tame the Thestrals? It would take a few generations, of course, but imagine what such an alliance could do for us. We could use the combined power of the two courts against New Unity to make them tow the line.” “You’re suggesting we pollute our noble blood with those … bats?” Lady Cookie spoke up in a disgusted tone. Baron Spear interjected. “While it’s true enough that as a principle we shun them, we all know we have them in our closets somewhere.” He ignored the looks they all gave him. “If it still worries you so much, then consider the possibilities of the payoff for this … investment. While we might pollute our bloodlines, imagine the control we might have in three generations? The Thestrals are savages, but as Dutchess Pansy has said, we can tame them, civilize them even. Imagine, teaching them not to reach for their weapons so often. They would draw them when we deem fit. And as much as the solar court may wish to deny it, they were an essential element in turning the tide of the war with the Gryphons a thousand years ago. “Ladies and Gentlecolts of NOOB, we cannot act as we have in the past. They are, even if we are loath to accept it, nobility now. Besides, Who here doesn’t want to have another point of entry into House Hurricane? The more the leverage, the better the payoff.” “Baron, if I may,” Jet Set spoke up. “Perhaps, as a rule, we do not marry the first generation of our family to the…. Thestrals, so as to keep the ruling class pure--” “But marry those that have no hope of inheriting our titles and ruling status?” Spear asked in return. “I do believe you’re onto something, Baron Set. Still, if we are to act, we must do so swiftly. Moon River is heir to the High Duchy of Filly De Ys, Princess Luna’s new capital. We need to have at least some proper nobility there if we are to have a chance of establishing civilization in this new court.” “Well, I think our family would be willing to start.” One mare stood up. “House Jade shall approach in the guise of patching the bad blood between our two houses. However, as we know, we all follow house Blueblood most closely as allies. If we are to succeed in this ruse, we shall need to appear to fall out of favor. If the Esteemed Baron deems our plan suitable, perhaps it would be wise for him to distance his stance with our house?” She smiled at Blueblood like a shark. “After all, would you not like to have the chance to eventually inherit the lands you have been watching over in stewardship for all these centuries?” She looked at her hoof. “When were you going to have to give them up again?” Blueblood snorted, “When Pensword returns from playing babysitter to the Crystal Prince. Or when he dies in the Gryphon Empire, Faust willing. I never liked those walking killers, but if they act, I shall not be too remiss over the loss.” “I’ve heard New Unity has just repelled an insect infestation. Perhaps you could send envoys in the guise of a relief effort to see if they need help, and approach Lady Lunar Fang that way?” Jet Set suggested. Blueblood smiled coldly. “I like that idea. It would also allow us the means to spy on this construction and maybe seed a little worry in the minds of the less sure recruits. All in favor?” “Aye!” The vote was resounding. The nobility all looked at each other with smug grins on their muzzles. Jade whispered under her breath. “So begins the taming of the Thestral.” Lady Fell Jade smiled as she walked along the relief column with medical supplies and trained physicians to assist in the recovery, alongside some few artisans to help rebuild what structures had been destroyed in the bout of the battle. As they passed through the Everfree, more than a few noticed black roots jutting out of the forest earth and deliberately did their best to stamp them out as the supply wagons rolled along. At last, they arrived at the entrance and Jade made her way to the bridge with her maids and a few of the other noblemares of the city. “My lady … wasn’t there supposed to be more damage to the fortress?” A timid maid asked. “Yes. Perhaps they focused on repairing the outer walls first. The inside is likely where the repairs and aid will be needed,” Jade said. “Hello!” She called up across the bridge. “Hello, in there!” “Who’s there?” The words almost seemed to flow over the wall to the ground, carrying the slur of alcohol and an alien accent that Jade could not identify. “I am Baroness Jade of Canterlot. I and my sisters in the Solar court have come to offer aid to the castle in its time of need.” “Ooh, some big fancy pants Unicorn is at the gate wantin’ entrance!” the Pony threw back at the assembly below. “Well let me just put on me good eyepatch then!” Jade looked back up at the Pony in disbelief. “Lord Hammer Strike lets his ponies get drunk on duty?” she muttered. “Lady, if I’mma not drunk, then I’mma not breathen,” the Pony shot back. “Hey, you! Lazy Pants back there! Get the gate up before this prissy lady starts makin’ a fuss.” “I beg your pardon!” Jade said, mortally offended. “Well, ye can’t have it!” he snarled. “Your a great greedy one arn’t ye. Ye want me ta raise the gate, ya want me not drunk on duty, now ye want ma pardon. What’s next, my eyepatch too?” “We came here to help! Why are you treating us so poorly?” “I’m drunk!” was his response. Jade was left speechless. It’s not like one can respond to something like that. The gate swung ponderously open as the stone portcullis rose, revealing the inner courtyard. As it did so, a suit bedecked Unicorn with a blue mask, fur, and mane smiled as the procession moved forward. “Greetings,” he said in a suave Phrench accent. “To what do we owe this unexpected pleasure? We hope your journey was not too stressful on your royal hooves.” “Finally, somepony with manners.” Jade smiled at the Pony. “It was pleasant enough until that stallion up there decided to make things difficult. We just wanted to bring some emergency supplies for the guard. We heard there was a changeling infestation here.” “Was Demolition Granado rude to you? So, sorry~,” the masked Pony responded. “As for the supplies--” his eyes trailed over several expensive objects in his view. “--that sounds wonderful. We were in need of such supplies.” “But I thought Hammer Strike was--.” Heavy Set was cut off as a hoof was placed in his mouth. “Heavy set, do you really want to have these ponies carry all zis heavy equipment back to Canterlot?” The masked Pony questioned, hinting towards their benefit. “Ah. Da, Da. Heavy will help you ponies.” Heavy Set nodded, moving to the most weighed down Pony and grabbing his burden with little effort. “What chivalry.” Jade batted her eyelashes in gratitude as she and the caravan made their way into the courtyard. “You can set the things down over there,” she said, motioning with little care in the general direction of what appeared to be an empty spot, looking aloof as the Pony servants struggled to the patch of ground. “Ey, Camo! Who’s the broad?” A small vein stood out on the side of Jade’s head. “Pardon me, but what did you just call me?” “I called you a broad. What, you prefer something else? Snob? Stuck up pri-” “Scout, that is enough,” Camo cut Scout off before looking back to Jade. “Sorry, Scout is a bit of a… hooffull, most of the time.” “Ey!” “Ma’am!” a rather loud, gravelly, abrasive voice spoke up from just outside Jade's field of vision. “I have orders! And those orders say I am to take you to rendezvous with Lunar Fang! Is that clear, maggot?” When she turned, a rather ugly-looking red Earth Pony stood before her, leaning in uncomfortably close. He wore a strange dome-like helmet that covered the entire upper part of his face. “M-maggot?” Jade exclaimed, horrified. “How dare you? I am the direct descendent of Jade Sphere, one of the greatest commanders of the Third Gryphon War. You will address me with the proper respect, soldier, do I make myself clear?” “I’m sorry, I do not recognize you in my chain of command, maggot!” he shouted at her angrily. “I give the orders here!” “But, doesn’t Hammer give orders? And Lunar, and Shield, and ... Shield…?” “Quiet, maggot!” he shouted to Heavy. “Now move it, maggot!” “Stand down, soldier,” a female voice spoke up as Lunar Fang landed beside him. The soldier's posture went rigid as he saluted the Thestral. “Dutchess Lunar Fang! Thank goodness,” Jade said. “What are you doing here?” she asked. “We came here to assist in the recovery from the siege. … I see that we may have been too late though.” She sighed. “How are the troops faring? Do they have need of medical treatment? I’ve brought some of my best physicians.” “We’ve been fine. Our medics are handling things okay, and all those who were injured are almost completely recovered. We suffered very little amounts of actual damage to the fortress during the siege,” she said. “... I see.” Jade sighed. “Then what am I to do with all these supplies and personnel? They were all looking forward to helping.” “Perhaps you should stay,” Lunar Fang noted. “It’s a long trek back and the sun would be setting soon” “We would appreciate the hospitality. I’m sure my servants won’t inconvenience your troops too much. They brought enough supplies to last them.” “So why are you here?” Lunar Fang said, turning towards the fort to hide her slitted eyes narrowing. “It’s not usual for nobles to go out themselves to such things.” “Let’s just say that Blueblood and I had a little falling out. I figured, what better way to get back at him than to send aid to you and your troops?” “Ah,” Lunar Fang said non-committedly. “Unfortunately, Lord Hammer Strike is away from the fort at the moment. I will make sure he has time to properly greet you later.” “Thank you. I would very much appreciate it. And please … forgive my boldness, but … what on earth possessed Hammer Strike to hire troops like … that?” she asked, motioning back to where the group of Ponies were standing. “The only kind one was that Phrench Pony over there.” “They were a set of eighteen mercenaries that came by not long after Lord Hammer Strike’s return. They’re a bit rough around the edges, but properly seasoned, so Hammer Strike hired them on in hopes their experience would help.” “And has it?” Jade asked curiously. “In many ways, yes.” Lunar Fang nodded. “They were quite proficient during the siege for one thing.” “Is that so? What skills do they use?” she asked casually. “They don’t seem like the average Pony.” “The Phrench Pony you met is so skilled at espionage he can make others believe he’s somepony else; the one on the gate has discovered several new explosive mixtures; the large one, as you sawm, has rather insane physical strength,” she noted. “The list goes on.” “A formidable force indeed. But … what does the annoying one do?” “He ran through a magic field during the siege like it was child’s play. He took down changelings with a club!” Jade’s eyes widened. “That alone?” she exclaimed, shocked. Luna Fang led her into the fort to a large upper room. “This will be where you can stay tonight. Was there anything else you need?” she asked. “Um … no, I … don’t think so.” she looked warily at the plain bed and sheets. “I … should be alright,” she said, doing her best to put on a warm smile. She got the smile right … just not the warmth. “You’re lying,” Lunar Fang said dryly. “Not lying … just … trying not to be an inconvenience. There’s a difference, you know,” Jade said, doing her best to make her eyes look hurt. This was something she was much better at. “Whatever.” Luna Fang sighed. “I need to check on my daughter.” Jade let out a squeal of excitement. “Oooh, how is the little dear? She’s in the toddler stages now, isn’t she? They’re so cute at that age.” “Yes, they are,” Lunar Fang said. “I really must go check on her.” The thestral turned away from the door. “I hope I can meet her later,” Jade said, still smiling. “I … hope I don’t seem too forward, but … well, I’ve been looking for a mare to match one of my younger sons.” She blushed violently. “So the visit isn’t entirely out of idle curiosity. It was actually my willingness to go through with this that put me in disfavor with Blueblood in the first place. You know how most of the nobles feel about Thestrals.” She sighed heavily. “... I see,” Lunar Fang said. “Well, I’m sure we can make time to talk about this in detail later. Of course, I can’t make any permanent decisions without Pensword present. He is the girl’s father after all.” “Of course, of course. I’m not looking to form a contract immediately. I just want to get to know the girl first.” “Well then, I’ll see you at dinner.” With that, Lunar Fang left the room. The second the door closed behind her she took to the air, flying down the hall towards Pensword’s office and the dragonfire lantern. She needed her commander. More importantly, she needed her husband. The siege on New Unity may have been destroyed, but a new siege had just begun on their family. Her eyes narrowed to slits. She would not allow them to lose. Pensword frowned as he looked at the letter his wife had sent him. It must be urgent if she sent it by dragon fire during the time frame she knew he would be meeting with the Emperor. He had read part of it and was growing worried; however, he jumped when one of Grif’s compatriots poked their head into the room. “Can you come here quickly? We have a slight issue with a couple of the Thestrals, and we need a mediator. They said something about ... war beds?” Pensword grimaced. “Right, I shall be right there.” He got up, putting the letter on the bedside table he had Jerry Rigged. “I thought that was going out of phase?” he muttered to himself. As he closed the door, a stray breeze knocked the letter to the table’s edge, where it rocked before falling onto Cosy’s bed on the other side. Cosy yawned and stumbled as he walked past Pensword. “Uncle, what’re you doing?” he asked as he raised a hoof to stifle yet another yawn. “I just have to take care of some things in the Thestral quarters. You can go to bed, and I will be up there shortly.” “Okay, Uncle.” Cosy yawned yet again as he trotted into the sleeping quarters. He smiled as he strolled up to bed. Then he noticed the parchment. His brows furrowed. “A letter for me?” Unfolding the papers, he began to read, his eyes widening as he looked over the main parts of the message. “They’re doing what?” Cosy said, not believing his own tired eyes as he read and re-read the passage. “But … she’s just a foal.” He put a pondering hoof to his chin. “Pensword wouldn’t let them touch her, but at the same time ...” he muddled as he put the letter back on Pensword’s desk. “I can’t think straight,” he muttered as he yawned yet again. “I’ll just sleep on it. Yeah. Sleep is good.” With that he tucked into the covers of the bed and slowly drifted off into the world of dreams.