An Extended Holiday

by Commander_Pensword

18 - Setting Up the Pieces

Extended Holiday
Chapter 18: Setting Up the Pieces

---

Matthew sighed as he leaned back in his chair and left the ink on the parchment to dry. Another day, another journal entry. It seemed the days were passing by so quickly now. Shawn had taken the time to confer with the smiths on various plans and ideas for how to proceed through the Everfree Forest. After the compound had been properly built and the lodgings improved, it was time to turn to preparations for the campaign to reach the castle in one piece and work properly on entry.

The move would likely have to be in stages, but at least it would be possible to manage without overtaxing resources. With that thought firmly in mind, he gathered his supplies and began the trek from the spare room to the ground floor, where he approached a pair of Thestral guards who stood before a set of double doors. A swift exchange of passwords granted him entry.

The war room was far from the elaborate creations of castle keeps and fantastical realms. This chamber favored functionality over panache. A large table held a map of Ponyville and the Everfree for the various Ponies to review and plant. Blueprints and diagrams were posted on the walls while various Ponies went to work organizing papers, altering calculations, and otherwise making themselves useful. A small team of cartographers and mapmakers had been provided by the princesses to help chart out a more accurate depiction of the Everfree than current documents allotted, and they worked feverishly as they sifted through mounds of papers filled with notes from the interviews they had been conducting among the townspeople for a better lay of the land leading into the forest.

Taze leaned back in a chair with his feet laying casually on the table while Shawn peered intently at one of the blueprints to check for any more errors. Moonshade, Black Rook, Silver Spear, and Twilight had already gathered to review the details that they knew from Twilight’s personal experience passing through those lands. A roll of parchment laid to her side, what doubtless must have been either a form of report or a means to record any important events for her to remember and plan for.

“I’m here,” Matthew said as he laid his materials on the table and took his seat. “Are we all set to start?”

“Yup,” Taze said.

“Then let’s get things underway,” Shawn spoke up as he looked to the gathering. “We have roughly a week until winter starts to clear, giving us at least two weeks total to get things prepared for clearing. Afterwards, we’ll need to start clearing a path for the caravan to pass through to our destination.”

“We should be able to get clearing teams organized quickly if we appoint a few more minor captains,” Taze noted.

“We’re supposed to have more units sent our way, but I haven’t received an update on that yet,” Shawn noted. No sooner had he said that then a whirl of magic materialized over the table to drop a fully constructed scroll sealed with wax and a ribbon.

“Speak of the devil,” Matthew said.

“Convenient,” Shawn remarked as he took hold of the scroll and cracked the seal. “Let’s see…. Thirty five units are scheduled to be en route for tomorrow. In addition, a military blacksmith will be sent in to assist with equipment. Following will be fifteen smiths of varying skills to assist in the creation of standard construction materials.” He looked up from the scroll. “All right, that settles that then. We’ll have the rest of our units tomorrow. That should give them some time to learn the schedule and get themselves prepared.”

“A week may not be enough to break them in properly,” Matthew noted. “We’ll need people to keep an eye on them so they don’t try anything.”

“We’ll need to establish some additional ranks to watch over things, but that shouldn’t take too much time, especially given Taze has already been planning something involving the troops.”

“I suppose the additional incentive of being on work duty instead of guard duty while they’re in the forest will help them to stay out of trouble, too,” Matthew mused. “What exercises did you have in mind, Taze?”

“We need to clear the trees and make an obvious path. The animals are less likely to attack people on well-trodden land,” Taze explained. “We could send them in crews to collect wood and tear out stumps over time.”

“Do we have an estimation of how long that might take or will we have to work that out as we test each of the recruits’ efficiency?” Matthew asked.

“We’ll need a sample, but I think if we keep the path narrow enough, say maybe five ponies abreast wide?” Taze commented. “We could have it done by mid-spring.”

“So long as we don’t overextend our forces along the way, that sounds doable,” Matthew agreed. “Will we be surveying for the future guard posts along the way as well or save that for after we finish clearing away the stumps?”

“This is to be a campaign,” Shawn said as he pointed toward the forest on the map. “Each stage of our progress will need to be carefully planned, especially given the size of our numbers and the level of training our recruits have. The wise choice is to build defensible structures along the way, so we can retain the footholds we establish. It will take longer to reach the castle, but it will be safer, and this particular enemy isn’t one you have to worry about stabbing you in the back.”

“Not necessarily,” Taze said. “About the time, I mean. We’ll have plenty of extra lumber from the clearing. If we have separate teams set up for building and keep the fortifications to a functional minimum, we could probably have them set up with little extra time.”

“We’ll have to rely on the expertise of our more seasoned warriors to help design the optimal setup,” Matthew noted. “Moonshade, what would be considered an acceptable and defensible structure by your guard standards?”

“Honestly, it’s probably better if we talk to some more experienced guards,” Moon shade replied. “I was stationed in Canterlot, so I didn’t end up in a lot of forts.”

“So, another letter to Princess Luna?” Matthew asked.

“Probably for the best,” Shawn agreed. “Once we can gather those bits of information, we can wrap up planning and get to work.”

“It’ll be interesting to see how the recruits react to their senior officers.” Matthew couldn’t help but smirk at the idea.

“There is … one other problem you’re going to have to consider,” Twilight said as she levitated one of her many volumes of books onto the table and opened to a particular page. “According to records, the castle is a rest stop of sorts for Gryphon mercenaries and others. Not many frequent the place, because it’s dangerous, but there’s one group of Gryphons that have been known to use it consistently once a year in their travels. I don’t know if they’ll take kindly to the castle being reclaimed.”

“Then we’ll have to prepare for their arrival and figure out how we’ll deal with them.” Shawn sighed. “Given they’re mercenaries, we could likely strike some kind of deal, but we won’t know for sure what can be managed until the time comes. Until then, we’ll prepare our defenses and plan according to the worst case scenario.”

“I think, honestly, what we’ve got planned is all we can do for now,” Taze said.

Matthew nodded. “We’ll need to coordinate with the smiths and engineers about a proper bridge for the gorge, too.”

“Based off the estimates that Taze was able to give me, I’ve actually already designed a bridge that can have its length adjusted,” Shawn remarked. “It’s just a matter of making it.”

“So then, sounds like we’ve got this set up,” Taze said. “I need to see Fluttershy about my mutt.”

“Keep us updated, then.” Shawn sighed. “This meeting is adjourned.”

---

The air was crisp and cold, but not biting as Taze approached the cottage. He was wearing a thick emerald green cloak with a silver lining. The back had the image of a silver snake coiled around itself. Fluttershy answered quickly and ushered him inside to help keep the chill of winter out. Angel Bunny was watching the timberwolf puppy intently from a safe perch atop a shelf while the canine gnawed on a piece of wood.

“He’s doing much better since Twilight helped deal with the gashes in his branches. Since he’s still a little sappy, I’ve warned the crusaders to keep their distance,” the mare informed him. “So far, he’s comfortable, and he doesn’t seem to want to hurt anyone, but we’ve kept him walled off for now, just to keep everyone else safe while he adjusts.”

“I’m glad to hear it,” Taze said as he walked toward the pup with a hand extended in a friendly way.

The puppy looked up from its meal and stared with glowing blue orbs at the hand. As Taze stepped through the incense burners, the pup cowered at first and clung to its meal. In response, Taze sat down cross-legged and waited patiently with the same hand still extended. When the cub was certain the strange creature wasn’t going to move to harm it, it rose cautiously and approached. It sniffed a few times, nosed at the human’s hand, then continued to sniffle until it reached one of the pockets in Taze’s cloak and tried to poke its head in.

“Well now, what did you find?” Taze asked the pup, patting its head as he gently nudged it back, then pulled a piece of tree bark out from the pocket and offered it.

The puppy immediately snatched up the bark, pinned it to the ground with its paws, and began to gnaw at it like a rawhide bone. Its hindquarters waved excitedly in the air as its tail wagged.

“There we go.” Taze laughed as he pet the pup. “I talked to my friend Shawn about it, and I think I’ve got a perfect name for you.”

The cub continued to chew at the wood, but its eyes drifted toward the human as he spoke and locked on his gaze.

“What do you think of Sylvio?” he asked.

The wooden canid stopped eating for a moment, then cocked its head as it stared at the human. It barked once, then faded to a questioning whine.

“Um, … he says he’d like you to say it again,” Fluttershy translated.

“Sylvio? Sylvio Lupis?” Taze looked at him, confused.

The timberwolf’s artificial brows furrowed together as it scrunched its face in the adorable manner only puppies and small children seem capable of. Finally, the pup nodded, barked again, and went back to eating his treat.

“He said he likes it. And … that you’re his pack leader now.”

Taze laughed “Well, that was fast.” He smirked as he continued to pet the pup. “How long will you need to keep an eye on him?”

“Physically, he seems to be fine. Since it’s difficult to keep a timberwolf intact for study, we don’t really have much to go on for the magical side of things. It might be good to give him time to get used to Ponies and other creatures before you take him back to town. It will be hard enough not to have everyone panic if you don’t let them know about our little friend here before you bring him with you.”

“What's your suggestion, then?”

“Teach him and tell the people in town that you got a new pet. I help animals find homes all the time, so that should help them to calm down if you spread the word.”

“I meant time,” Taze laughed.

“Oh.” Fluttershy blushed and pulled back behind her mane slightly. “Um, Let’s give him one more night, just to be on the safe side. If you could play with him, that might help to show how well he’s recovered, too.”

Taze nodded as he rubbed behind the pup's ears. Then he paused a moment, resumed his rubbing again, and finally raised an eyebrow in surprise.

“Is … something the matter?” Fluttershy asked.

Taze shook his head. “Not exactly. He just seems to be adapting.”

“Adapting to what?”

“The wood he’s eating. The bark in his coat is a little thicker and less soft than it was when I brought him here.”

“Maybe it has something to do with what Twilight did to help him heal?” Fluttershy suggested.

“What did twilight do?” Taze asked.

“Well, I don’t really know. It was some kind of spell to help with growth and regeneration, but it was meant for plants, and Sylvio isn’t exactly a plant, so … maybe it did something to make him adapt? I … really don’t know. Sorry….”

“It’s okay.” Taze grinned. “As long as he’s healthy.”

Sylvio barked and wagged his tail before licking Taze’s hand and leaving behind a coating of sticky sap.

“He says his family were a lot bigger and tougher than he was, and they fed him and his siblings to make them grow. So, maybe this is just how timberwolves get stronger?” Fluttershy guessed.

“Seems so. Perhaps the Everfree Forest is part of the problem?”

“What do you mean?”

“Well, aren't you Ponies always talking about how wrong the place is? They literally are eating the trees growing inside it.”

“I … suppose there could be a connection,” Fluttersy said. “But I don’t know if it really matters right now anyway.” She smiled kindly at Sylvio. “I’ll make sure to get the little guy some good food. Now that we know his diet, we can find what will help him most.”

Sylvio barked again, and his tail wagged in excitement.

Fluttershy giggled. “He says he can hardly wait.”

---

Shawn sighed as he looked over his blueprints once again. “The hardest thing we’ll have to deal with is going to be the support. The crevasse noted around the castle makes this difficult, but there are a few design alternatives we can use to manage it.” He gestured to the blueprint he had made before looking up to the smiths gathered. “What I’ve got here should do the trick, and it’s a modular design, allowing adjustments to happen as needed.”

“This looks interesting,” Storm hammer commented as she looked it over.

“Modular designs are a pain to make, but they’ll serve us well in the future in case of repairs or otherwise,” Shawn explained.

“So then, we’ll need to pool the apprentices. This is going to take a lot of synchronized work,” she commented, looking at Steel Weaver.

“That shouldn’t be too much trouble. Honestly, the designs themselves seem like they would have been more difficult.” Steel Weaver nodded.

“Yes, but still, we need every piece of this to work. I don’t think we’re going to have the resources for another shot right away.”

“So long as the two base points are made correctly, the bridge itself should mostly rely on wood, which we will have in a decent supply soon enough,” Shawn spoke up. “In addition, you’ll have some new smiths inbound soon enough to assist in the labor.”

“Anyone we might know of?” Steel Weaver asked.

“No names were listed. Sorry.”

“Lets just hope we don’t get that twit,” Storm Hammer said.

“That, I can agree on.” Steel Weaver sighed. “So long as it’s not him, everything will run smoothly.”

“I’ll not ask for the moment,” Shawn shook his head. “In any case, I’ve got the dimensions listed out in Equish, so you don’t need me to translate them. Beyond that, I leave these designs in your hooves.”

“So, you're actually trusting us with this one?” Storm Hammer laughed.

“Well, considering it can’t explode and kill us, I have faith in your abilities.”

“Well, that’s certainly a change of pace.” Steel Weaver chuckled. “I think we can get this one done, right?” He looked to Storm Hammer. “Though the wood may take longer than expected.”

“That's true. We’ll need to see if this town has a decent carpenter,” Storm Hammer noted.

“I might be able to help with that, actually,” Shawn noted. “I’m not too impressive as a smith, though it’s worked out for now. But before I came to Equestria, I was pretty good when it came to working with wood.”

“Maybe, but you’ll need more help than yourself,” Storm Hammer commented

“Of course, but, that’ll at least give us another individual working on the project there.”

“It’s going to take a lot of hoof power to fill this order, especially with the measurements we’ll need to take for the depth of the gorge itself,” Steel Weaver noted.

“We’ll handle that when we get there,” Shawn said. “For now, the sooner we can get to work on the pieces we’ll need, the better. While Taze and Matthew coordinate cutting down the trees for the path, we’ll work on carving out the parts we’ll need.”

“Sounds like a plan,” Storm hammer said. “We’ll get on this immediately.”

“In that case, I’ll leave you to it.” Shawn nodded. “I have some paperwork to do, so I won’t be around again until later.”

---

Matthew gazed intently at the cardboard rendering of the landmass and its various regions from desert to jungle to rainforest to bayou. Then he frowned. “Equestria has some … very strange biomes.”

Twilight shrugged. “It’s magic. Sometimes, it goes out of its way to accommodate the occupants of a territory. That, or to shape them to match what it wants instead.”

“That sounds ominous.”

“It’s not like it’ll force someone to change all at once. The changes usually come gradually over years, or even generations. The only time that magic has been known to forcefully change an individual has been in the event of a curse, a consciously directed spell, or if one is so closely attuned to magic that it’s able to modify your shape directly. And that last one only works if the person with the attunement doesn’t know how to use their magic properly.”

“So, basically, extremely rare occurrences?”

Twilight nodded. “Exactly. So, are you going to roll?”

“I hope you’re ready for a long game,” Matthew returned. “This has been known to drag on for days sometimes.”

“Why make it so hard to win?” Twilight asked.

“Because no good game worth its salt would only take a couple of minutes. And strategy games are almost as addicting as Pinkie Pie’s cupcakes.”

“... I’m not sure I can trust you on that, Matthew. You’re a very military minded kind of person.”

“Didn’t you have a time in your youth when you had to utilize strategy to defeat an opponent?”

“Several when I was a filly and competing with my brother.”

“Then you should understand the allure of victory after waiting and fighting for such a long time to have your strategy pay off. The anticipation is at once devastating and exhilarating, knowing that the outcome hinges on pure chance through the roll of the dice and the troops at your command.”

“Are you sure you haven’t been hanging out with my brother lately?” Twilight asked suspiciously.

“Yes, I’m sure, Twilight. It’s just that this essentially constitutes a war game in and of itself. It’s a perfect microcosm of real time strategy, since you never know whether your forces will win or lose in a battle, no matter how well planned your attack might be. And the same can be said for defense. In a very real sense, this is a scale model of war. The only difference is that you can’t have peace talks, only discussions to make temporary alliances.”

“Why are you so determined to reproduce this?” Twilight asked.

Matthew smiled knowingly. “I have plans for this game, Twilight. There can be great education in defeat. And much like our little battle with the snow forts, this will push our troops to think outside the box and learn when it’s appropriate to take risks versus when to play things by the book.”

“But that’s not the main reason we’re making it.”

Matthew grinned. “Not even close. It’s just plain fun.”

Twilight sighed in resignation. “All right. Which tribe did you want to play as for this test?”

---

Taze stood calmly behind the Punch Bowl as he gazed down range. A few days back, he had set up hay bales with paper targets with Berry’s permission, and he was actively using them for target practice, both with his throwing blades and pistol. After regretfully leaving Sylvio for the night, he went to his nightly routine. In the morning, he worked out. In the evening, he worked on his aim.

Taze sighted down the barrel with his arm outstretched and concentrated, picturing the site and where he wanted the projectile to go. He had never been good with guns, not even the airsoft rifle his family had lying around the house. But he knew that all things come with practice. He took a deep breath, exhaled, and finally squeezed the trigger. The ball shot from the barrel with the usual puff of smoke and hit just inside the outer ring.

“Damn,” Taze swore, looking at one of the other targets. Five throwing blades had dug into it; three in the inner ring, one just outside it, and one in the center. Why could he throw better than he could shoot?

“Is it really wise to use up your ammo like that?” Matthew strode toward the firing line from the side of the inn. “It’s not like we have an infinite supply.” Then he looked over Taze’s work and whistled. “Not bad,” he complimented.

“I can’t shoot worth a damn. It’s not going to matter much if I can’t hit anything with it to begin with.”

“Have you tried shooting with just your dominant eye?”

“I’ve tried everything,” Taze said. “It just comes down to practice.”

“That, and dealing with the recoil, I suppose.” Matthew pulled out his kay bar, raised his arm, and threw for all he was worth at one of the wooden targets. The handle knocked harmlessly against the wood, and the blade clattered to the ground. “I guess we both have our issues to work with.” He frowned. “You know, I can’t help but wonder how good a shot I would be with my pistol. I haven’t really had the chance to test it since Hearth’s Warming with all the work we’ve been doing with the troops.”

“Well then, you should try and see how it goes.”

“Maybe next time, if you don’t mind me joining your session.”

“Nah. I made this for anybody,” Taze said.

“You know, you could always use the range at the base. Is there a reason why you wanted to make one here?”

“So I don't have to show off my crappy aim?” Taze chuckled.

“It’s not that bad, Taze. At least you’re hitting the target. I can't even get my knife to stick.”

“Well, I mean, it may help if you were using the right kind of knife,” Taze said.

“I thought you could throw any knife.”

“You can, but throwing knives are generally made specifically for the process, making it much more likely to hit with the blade.” Taze took a blade and held it carefully before taking aim and throwing, hitting the inner circle.

Matthew whistled again, then chuckled. “Wouldn’t it be funny if it turned out you had the knife skills and I was the marksman?”

“Not that out there. You’ve had more practice with a gun than I have.”

“Maybe we can teach each other, then.” He frowned. “By the way, you did make sure to tell Berry and any other people not to panic if they hear the gun going off, right?”

“I explained everything.” Taze nodded.

“Good. At least we won’t have to worry about starting some kind of scene, then.” Matthew looked back to Taze’s pistol again. “On second thought, maybe I will join you. It never hurts to be prepared. That being said, there was something else I wanted to ask you about while you’re here. Have you got any plans for later tonight?”

“Not really.”

Matthew grinned. “In that case, after we finish up here, there’s a little something I’d like to show you and the others tonight. Call it a fun surprise.”

---

The air was calm and still as Shawn knocked on the door to Golden Oaks library. Cheerful golden light flowed from within, a sign of the warmth generated by candles and magic on an otherwise chilly and bleak winter day. The door creaked open, and a familiar purple muzzle peeked out into the cold to stare at Shawn’s cloaked and hooded form.

“Oh, Lord Shawn,” the Pony exclaimed. “Please, come in. What brings you by?”

“I’ve come by with some more information translated from the book.” Shawn gave a small grin. “That, and to talk to you about something involving said book.”

Twilight lit up with a far broader grin. “Please, please, come in!” she said excitedly and hastened to shepherd the human inside before closing the door. “The premise behind the introductory thesis was fascinating. The idea that a person can actively consume and manipulate the very building blocks of all matter…. The things a Pony could learn from that!”

“Indeed. Though it has led to some other questions. In particular, over later information I was able to translate.” Shawn frowned as he held out the book for Twilight. “It talks about a field of power needed to use these arts, and lists several known properties of said field that feel … almost familiar in a way.”

“You mean like a sigil or a magic circle?”

“Not really. It’s something that sort of … covers the outside of an entity. Notable things about this field is that it does things on its own.”

“So, it’s like a living thing?”

“Kinda...? Though, not entirely. The book says that it doesn’t think on its own. It just does these actions based on the host’s needs. The thing that caught my eye in particular is how it seems to help the host. Enhancing them through differing means, or even going so far as to help heal injuries at an increased rate.”

“So, sort of like a constant protection, but one that doesn’t need a source of magic to maintain it?”

“Yeah. But, that’s the thing. Some of the information mentioned feels … I don’t know, too familiar.” Shawn’s frown deepened as he thought things over. “Like some part of me knows something, but I can’t put my finger on it.”

“You mean like a blocked memory?”

“Something like that, but it doesn’t really make sense. I know Luna mentioned I appear to have some repressed memory of something recent, but I don’t know how it would connect to this.” He looked to his hand as he continued his train of thought. “Thaumaturgy. I mentioned it before, but … I don’t know where from.”

“I … thought you mentioned it from the book?”

“I mentioned it to the others before I had even seen the book.”

Twilight hummed in thought. “That is unusual,” she agreed. “You weren’t in any trance or anything like that when you mentioned it to them, right?”

“I don’t think I was. In any case, it just all sounds eerily familiar, as though I know what it’s talking about. Yet, I don’t hold much recollection about where I learned it from.” He squinted as he focused on his hand. “The more I focus on it, the stranger it feels. As though at any moment I could slip—” He suddenly blinked, and for the briefest of moments, he swore he could see his hand glow before everything snapped back to normality. He gave a brief groan of annoyance as he rubbed at his eyes. “Sorry. Felt lost for a minute there.”

Twilight furrowed her brow as she gazed at Shawn’s hand. “You said your people can’t use magic, right?”

Shawn hummed as he turned his attention to Twilight. “Yeah. Magic’s not really something we can use. Why do you ask?”

“Because your hand just glowed. It was just a second, but … it was almost like when I use my magic.”

“Wait, that actually happened?” Shawn blinked a few times as he returned his attention to his hand.

“Have any of your other friends shown any signs like this? I mean, Taze said that magic might have existed in your world before. Maybe Equestria’s abundance of mana just helped to jump start it for you.”

“I’m ... not sure. They haven’t mentioned glowing hands or anything like that.” Shawn paused as he thought over a few things. “But, … Taze has questioned me about rapid healing from an injury he recently had....”

“Are you implying what I think you might be?” Twilight asked as she looked first to the copy of the translation, and then to Shawn.

“I might be.” Shawn frowned. “I’ll need to look into this more. If all of us have this field, it would explain a lot.”

Twilight peeked at the pages as they rustled with the touch of her magic. “Any chance these might mention a test?”

“Nothing I’ve translated yet, but there was a brief mention of it in a later section. I’ll have to test it out when I do translate it.”

“Let me know if there’s anything I can do to help. After everything you’ve done for me and Cadance, it’s the least I can do.”

“I will. Until then, however, I have a lot to think on. Enjoy what I have translated for now. I’ll be back later. Like I said, I think I want to look into this further.”

Twilight shook her head. “If this is your only copy, you should keep it for cross reference, just in case. I can wait until after you’ve sorted this out.”

“I can read Latin, so I can read the original. Don’t worry.” Shawn waved dismissively.

Twilight looked like she was about to say more, but finally relented and nodded. “Whatever you think is best.”

---

The air was calm and cold, the halls silent. The Punch Bowl had become a veritable graveyard thanks to its lack of boarders that night. The tap room was warm and cozy, with just a few lingering patrons while the cold of winter blew harshly out from the Everfree Forest. Matthew grinned as he clung to the box Twilight had brought from the library. The time had come at last, and he was not about to waste the opportunity as he knocked on Shawn and Taze’s door.

“Yeah?” Taze asked as he cracked it open.

Matthew smirked confidently as he patted the package at his side. “I did tell you I had a surprise for you two tonight. Care to join us downstairs?”

“I’ve about wrapped up everything on my end.” Shawn nodded as he stood from his desk.

“Great. I’ll get Moonshade. This is something I think she’ll appreciate, too.”

A few minutes later, a grinning Matthew laid the box on top of a large table to stare at his friends. “Twilight and I have been working on a little something for the last couple of weeks. We finally put on the finishing touches this afternoon for the beta test. With the five of us together, we’ll be able to have a proper campaign and push it to its limits.”

“The name is still in question, but for now, we thought Equestrian Defenders worked best,” Twilight said as the box was opened to reveal five small rectangular boxes and multiple six-sided dice. A foldable board spread open to reveal a detailed landscape of Equestria divided into a number of territories in various colors.

“It is a game of great risk and even greater rewards,” Matthew returned as he grinned at his friends. “A twist on a traditional game from my homeland. The objective is to conquer Equestria and have it fly under your colors alone. Each player starts off with a randomly chosen series of territories divided evenly among them. Each turn, a player is able to receive a minimum of three reinforcements. And depending on the number of territories under their control that number will increase or decrease without ever dropping below three.” He raised a number of cards, each bearing a Unicorn, an Earth Pony, a card that split a flying figure in half with a Thestral half on the left and a Pegasus half on the right, and finally a card that showed all three on its face. “Every time a land is conquered in your phase, you receive a conquest card that you hold on to. Get three of a kind, and you can trade them in for bonus armies that will rise in number every time a trade-in occurs. This fourth card is wild, and can count as any one of the other three.”

Next, Matthew raised the dice. “Battle is conducted with these. Based on the number of troops attacking, the aggressor may roll anywhere between one and three dice. The one rule is that at least one troop must remain behind to keep occupying territory, so plan accordingly. The same rules apply to the defending armies. A maximum of two dice may be used to defend against an opponent for so long as you have at least two troops defending your territory. If you have only one, then you may only use one die. Highest rolls will be paired together to determine which wins. In the event of a tie, the defending troops will be the victors. Troops can only be moved to adjacent and linked territory, and only at the end of your turn. Once you redistribute your troops, your turn is over. Different pieces will have different values of troop numbers. We can explain that as we go along.”

“Okay. Doesn’t seem that hard,” Taze noted.

Shawn gave a chuckle. “I haven’t played this in a long while.”

“What better way to show off one’s skill in command and tactics than with a war game that has no real war to it?” Matthew grinned as he eyed Moonshade. “Do you think you can take us on?”

“I can try,” Moon Shade said. “How hard can it be to beat a human?”

Matthew chuckled. “I could ask the same of a Thestral.”

“When it comes to strategy and calculations, I can’t be beaten!” Twilight boasted in turn. “I can’t wait to see what everyone tries!”

Matthew rubbed his hands together in anticipation. “Then let the games begin.”

Moonshade reached for one of the boxes. “In that case, I think I’ll take black.”

The campaign lasted for nearly three hours as humans and Ponies postured and posed one with another. Alliances were forged and broken. Whole swarms of armies were struck down by a measly force at impossible odds. But slowly and steadily, the map began to fill with two solid parties, Moonshade’s black and Shawn’s blue. And slowly, inevitably, the black began to consume until there was nothing left.

Moon Shade stood alone, victorious.

“Remarkably well done for your first game.” Shawn gave a smile.

“Thank you,” she said. “I admit you surprised me several times.”

“I haven’t seen a game this close in ages.” Matthew laughed. “Shawn, those saving throws were ridiculously lucky.”

“That they were,” Shawn agreed.

Matthew bowed his head in respect. “It would appear that humanity still has some improvements to make before they’re ready to take on a member of the Lunar Guard.” Then his solemn expression broke into a smile, and he winked at her.

“As to be expected,” she laughed back.

“I think it’s safe to say that this qualifies as an official success,” Twilight said with a smile.

“I’d say so,” Taze chuckled. “Who knows? Maybe Matthew will start his own string of games.”

“I don’t know, Taze. The legal ramifications alone if people back home were to find out what I did here with this wouldn’t be kind,” Matthew said uncertainly. “At least if we were to try to commercialize it.”

“Matthew, I’m pretty sure international patent laws don’t cover other worlds.”

“I’m still not sure if it’d be worth the headache. Besides, aren’t we supposed to focus on clearing the Everfree and training new troops? Until that’s done, I’m pretty sure any gaming pursuits will probably have to stick to the backburner.”

“Well, if you ever change your mind, I wouldn’t mind helping again,” Twilight said as she smiled. “This was a lot of fun.”

Matthew yawned. “Yes, it was,” he admitted. “Though now I’m feeling tired. Does anyone know what time it is?”

“Some time roughly after nine,” Shawn replied without looking at a clock.

Twilight started guiltily. “I … should probably get back to the library, then. Spike is probably waiting for me to tuck him in.” Her horn glowed as the pieces all levitated back into their respective containers and everything was returned to the box in swift order. “If you don’t mind, I’d like to hold on to this for now. It might be useful to help keep some of the younger Ponies occupied while their parents are looking for books.”

Matthew smiled. “Sure. Just make sure it’s available for us to borrow if we ask, okay?”

Twilight nodded. “You have yourself a deal.” And with those final words, she bade them all farewell and made her way out into the night.

When Twilight was gone, Taze looked at Shawn. “Hey, question?”

“What’s up?” Shawn raised a brow.

Taze took out the pistol. “I’m not a great shot,” he admitted. “Is there any way you could improve the accuracy?”

“Maybe. Rifling the barrel would help, but that’ll take some time, given the lack of certain tools. Beyond that, the best I could offer would be a longer barrel.”

“I’d appreciate any help you can give,” Taze said, offering it to him.

Shawn took hold of the flintlock with a frown. “I will warn you, this will take some time to accomplish. Without the right tools, I have to do these things by hand.”

“Yeah, well, unfortunately, it’s not doing me much good as is. I’ll stick with throwing blades and archery for now.”

Shawn nodded and hummed. “I’ll see what I can manage.”

---

It wasn’t exactly what could be called a common dream, but it wasn’t entirely unwelcome either. A secret lab hidden underground spread out before him. Familiar older consoles and figures paced around the room or gazed from the observation deck. A great metal container complete with a very uncomfortable looking table and restraint devices waited for a human test subject while massive needles laid within injectors to spread a familiar blue fluid into the one who would take that place. Matthew was in the middle of striding toward that great machine and the tomb that the container would surely be for those that stepped in. He was ready to enter that tomb and face the needles and the process to follow when time seemed to stop. The world froze, and Matthew pulled back from the table in a sense of vertigo and confusion. How … what … what was he doing here? Was he…?

“I’m … dreaming?” Before his eyes, slim and weak arms filled out with proper muscle tone as the weak body of Steve Rogers yielded and transitioned into his own weakened form. The air seemed to resound with a constant ticking emanating from his chest as he looked around.

“Yes,” a familiar voice stated as someone approached from behind. “Dreams are a strange thing, are they not?”

Matthew whirled to face the wavering form of a tall woman with flowing blue hair that sparkled in the artificial lights. The closer she drew, her stilettos rang from two to four as she transitioned into the familiar figure of a dark blue alicorn. “Princess Luna!”

“Yes, though I must admit your dreamscape is … new,” she said, looking around. “I don’t fully understand what’s happening.”

“It … might be difficult to explain, depending. I guess the first thing I should ask is, do you Ponies have movies?”

“Movies? Oh!” Her eyes widened. “You mean motion picture films? Yes, we have been working on that technology a lot. The new projectors hardly ever overheat now.”

“Yes.” Matthew nodded. “What you are seeing here is a motion picture film from our world. It’s the tale of a man who is meant to embody the best ideals of my country. He was born weak and frail, unable to develop like a healthy human would. But he had a strong heart and incorruptible morals. As a result of that character, he was chosen for an experiment that transformed him into a super soldier with incredible strength and agility. That chamber there was how they administered the serum and the rest of the process to transform this meek and mild human into America’s mightiest soldier.” He reached toward his chest. “I … guess I can relate to him. You know, because of my heart. I can’t do the things everyone else does nearly so well. My mom used to treat me like I was made of glass. I wanted to be strong and capable, like Captain America. To give service, really make a difference. But right now, the only fight I can really be a part of is a fight to keep living, if I’m being honest. What happened at the palace feels more like a fluke than any reflection of real military prowess.”

“I see…” she nodded. “It is a strange concept, but not unheard of.”

Matthew nodded in turn. “So, if you don’t mind my asking, what brings you into my head? Is there some kind of emergency going on back at the capitol?”

“I simply wanted to try and get a greater understanding about your heart,” she said.

“Metaphorically or physically?”

“Physically. How is it put together, and how does it work?”

“Well, the human heart is divided up into a number of chambers, each designed to help pump blood back and forth through the body. The right side of the heart draws blood that is lacking in oxygen and sends it past the lungs. Then the blood flows through the left side of the heart and is distributed through the vascular system. Each chamber in the heart has a natural valve that a person is born with. In my case, one of those valves failed. Most doctors say it’s a miracle I survived to be diagnosed and treated.” He frowned. “Is there a way I can show you what I’m thinking in here?”

“It’s your dream. If you will it, it can happen.”

Matthew nodded. “All right, then let me try to show you what I mean.” He closed his eyes and concentrated. A few moments later, a beating heart appeared in the air in front of them. The heart was then cut in half to reveal its inner workings. Four flaps pushed open and shut with each pulse of the organ. “Now, the organic valves here are designed to pump blood without trouble.” A few more moments of concentration yielded a small device with flaps shaped like air vent covers that appeared in his hand.

“This is an example of one model of valve that our scientists have developed. It functions based on the same principle. The heart pumps the blood, and the pressure of the blood forces the valves open to pass through. Then it clamps shut again as the heart finishes its contraction and relaxes.” He sighed and held out the valve. “But unlike the natural valves of the heart, this is a foreign object, mechanical instead of organic. And as a result, it requires certain … adjustments in the host to maintain its functionality. Without my blood thinners, my body would do what it’s meant to do naturally. Platelets and coagulants would attach to the foreign object and gum up the works, stopping the valve from working.” The valve in his hand became coated in thick red gunk that gradually solidified into a snotty clotted mass. “This could lock it open, or worse, gum it shut as a result, causing the pressure in the chamber of my heart to build and build until….” The open view of one of the chambers in the heart began to fill with more and more blood as the organ continued to pump. Finally, the chamber began to bulge and throb. With one last forceful surge, the wall burst open, sending a shower of blood and plasma out into the air to fade into nothingness with the rest of the projections.

“I see.” Luna nodded. “It is an interesting predicament our own medical professionals find themselves in. As I understand it, with you, had they found your issue before the artificial valve was put in, they might have fixed it, but it is the valve itself that is the rub. They have no idea how to work around it.”

“If they tried, I would probably die on the operating table,” Matthew said seriously. “Our doctors developed a machine specifically to keep the body functioning while operating on the heart or lungs. Without such a machine or technique that would have a similar effect, I doubt they would be able to help me.”

“How have the potions been working?” she asked.

Matthew shrugged. “Honestly, I don’t know. I seem to be doing all right, but at the same time, there are some things that are different. It’s getting harder to wake up in the mornings. I often feel sluggish, and I tire more easily. I don’t know how much of that could be related to my blood or to our present circumstances or maybe to the potions themselves as a side effect. I just know that it’s happening.”

“I see.” Luna nodded gravely. “We are doing everything we can to find a solution,” she said.

Matthew smiled sadly. “And I do appreciate that kindness, Princess. Thank you. Just … do me a favor, please. Don’t tell Shawn and Taze about this. I don’t want them to worry.”

“I’ll keep quiet on it.” Luna nodded. “Just please keep us up to date, so we can help as much as we can.”

Matthew’s smile twitched into a more humorous curve. “Is that a hint to visit a doctor?”

“No, simply a note,” Luna said.

Matthew nodded. “I’ll see what I can do. Is there a way I can send my reports discreetly?”

“We should be working on having some dragonfire lanterns sent to you three soon,” Luna promised.

“That’s actually a thing? I didn’t know you could bottle Dragon fire.”

“It’s not easily done, and usually requires a source, but Celestia obviously had a direct source for some time.”

Matthew frowned. “As long as it doesn’t hurt the Dragon.”

“It does not,” Luna assured him.

“All right.” Matthew nodded. “Thank you, Princess. I’ll make sure to send you reports on how I’m feeling once the lanterns are delivered. Was there anything else I could help you with in the meantime while you’re here?”

“No. I'm afraid I have more work yet to do,” Luna said. “Part of my duty is to look after the dreams of all our subjects in the kingdom. Will you be all right?”

Matthew nodded. “Yeah. I’ll be fine.”

“Then until we meet again, Matthew Connor.”

The Alicorn princess ascended with a flap of her wings, and then was gone in a flash of light. Matthew turned back toward the machine as his dream resumed, and he entered into the hold that would be either his dream self’s salvation or his death.

In the spectral paths that flowed outside the door to Matthew's dream, Princess Luna frowned, then shook her head as her face set in determination. “We will find a solution for you, Matthew Connor,” she said under her breath. “We swear it.”

---

It was a normal day in Ponyville. The cold weather blew as the recruits tended to the black trees and hauled them away for use in construction and crafting. The three friends each strode in their full winter cloaks, taking shelter in their protection as a bitter wind blew out from the forest, almost as if the land mass were snarling at them. And that would have continued as such, were it not for an even greater cry that was part scream and part groan, followed immediately by a bright purple flash of light and the sight of a massive tree jumping stories above the town before gravity asserted itself again and the living building plummeted to the ground. The shockwave soon followed, blowing back against the forest and leaving more than a few of the troops wild-eyed at what had just happened.

“What the hay was that?” Matthew asked as he stared back at the open air where the tree had once been suspended.

“Oh, that was just Twilight having a meltdown over a big test Princess Celestia wants to give her.” The casual nature with which the pink mare spoke belied the stealth with which she had suddenly appeared at Matthew’s side.

Naturally, this did not go well.

Matthew screamed his surprise and jumped back from the mare. Afterward, he patted his chest as he hunched forward and gave controlled breaths. “Pinkie pie!” he gasped. “Don’t do that!”

Pinkie Pie giggled. “Do what, silly?”

“Sneak up on me. Are you trying to give me a heart attack?”

“That depends.” Pinkie approached and whipped out a basket from her mane. “If you mean my super duper ultra sweet heart attack cupcakes, then yes!” She placed one in Matthew’s palms, then lobbed the rest with expert aim to land down each Pony worker’s gullet. “That ought to put a little spring into your step.”

Matthew looked to his cupcake, then to the workers, then to the basket, which Pinkie was rapidly replacing in the depths of her mane, a thing which was absolutely scientifically impossible. His eye began to twitch, and he groaned as he smacked his forehead and shook it. “It’s Pinkie Pie, don’t question it. It’s Pinkie Pie, don’t question it. It’s Pinkie Pie, don’t question it,” he muttered under his breath like an incantation. Finally, he managed to regain his composure. “Pinkie, I’m … sort of like Twilight is, okay? If you can somehow break the laws of physics or even just bend them with whatever it is you do, please, please, please try not to do it around me. For the sake of my sanity,” he begged.

Pinkie cocked her head to the side and raised a brow in confusion at the human. Finally, she shrugged and smiled. “Okie dokie!” she promised. “But only if I’m not pranking you.”

“Pranking?” But the mare was already gone, bouncing like a spring along the path, complete with sound effects.

“See you three at the castle!” she said by way of farewell.

Matthew groaned, then blinked in surprise. “Wait, did she just say what I think she said?”

“I get the feeling our presence is soon to be requested,” Shawn remarked with a frown.

“I’ve got a bad feeling about this,” Taze said. He wore his cloak looser than his two friends. The winters here were mild compared to what he was used to back on Earth.

“Chrysalis level of bad feeling or something more like the existential dread of an incoming crisis?” Matthew asked.

“Yes,” Taze said

“Yes, what?”

“Yes,” Taze said, shrugging

Matthew frowned. “I don’t get it.”

“Yes to all of the above,” Shawn clarified. “A feeling I can agree with.”

“Oh.” At that moment, a gust of wind carried blue fragments of paper that quickly assembled themselves into a complete scroll. This time, Matthew caught it before it could hit the ground, then passed it to Shawn. “And we’ve got mail.”

“Joy.” He sighed as he unrolled the scroll.

To our dear friends of Earth,

Greetings. We write this letter to you now for two reasons. The first pertains to a gift of sorts that we believe will be useful to the three of you during the course of your stay in Equestria. The latter is a matter that we do not feel comfortable writing, even with the guarantee of delivery that Dragonfire provides. It is a matter of some urgency. Therefore, we request your presence at the palace at your earliest convenience. Rest assured, we shall reimburse any expenses that the trip should require. As one who hopes to be considered a trusted friend, we beg you to come quickly.

Your Friend in Battle,

HRH Princess Luna Galaxia

Shawn hummed after reading the letter. “It looks like we’ve got a trip to make. Wrap up anything you need to deal with and I’ll see to getting some tickets.”

“We’ll need to organize the troops,” Matthew noted. “Who do we want to supervise while we’re gone?”

“Moonshade will be the best for the job.”

“And maybe one or two of the more seasoned recruits,” Matthew agreed. “They can work as aides de camp.”

“I’ll look into the tickets while you manage that, then.” Shawn frowned as he thought over things. “Beyond that, we’ll need to figure out something for Mutatio and Me-Me.”

“Maybe we can slip them in as aides to Moonshade as well?” Matthew suggested. “Then they won’t be far away from anyone that can protect them in the event of an attack.”

“I’ll leave that to you.” Shawn nodded. “Taze, anything on your end?”

“Not really.” Taze shrugged

“Then let’s get this over with. We’ll meet at the Punch Bowl after we finish preparing for departure.” He waved his farewell as his cloak fluttered behind him. “See you two later.”

Taze nodded and headed for the door. He took his time making his way through the town until he came to the end of the path to Fluttershy's cottage. The mare was just closing the door when he strode over the edge of the hill.

“Oh, Taze. Sorry I didn’t see you coming. I was just finishing closing up.”

“I just came to check on Sylvio,” Taze said. “But it looks like you’re leaving.”

“Twilight got a letter calling her to the capitol. The rest of the girls and I want to be there to support her and congratulate her after she passes. You … may not know, but she’s awfully nervous about tests. At least if they come from Princess Celestia.”

Taze nodded. “We actually have to head out there, too. I just wanted to check if the little guy was going to be all right while I’m gone?”

“Oh, yes. I left instructions for the animal friends who are staying with me in my cottage for the winter. They know what to do. I explained that I shouldn’t be gone too long, and Sylvio promised to be good while I was away. Did you want to see him before I go? The train won’t be here for a while yet, and the girls want to surprise Twilight by taking the next one after she goes.”

“If you wouldn’t mind a few minutes?”

“Of course. He’ll be happy to see you again. Wolves can function without an alpha to guide them, but they prefer to maintain contact with each other when possible.” She smiled and opened the door to reveal an open floor, where a white bundle of sticks cocked its head. Sylvio’s eyes widened as the light flared with excitement. Moments later, he bounded at the human, pouncing for his chest.

“Hey there, buddy.” Taze smiled as he held the pup gently, taking a small step back from the impact. “You doing well?”

Sylvio responded by licking the human’s cheeks and face as much as possible.

“Well, I’ll take that as a yes,” he laughed, then held the pup away to keep him from blocking what he had to say. In true puppy fashion, Sylvio squirmed cutely as his tail and rear wagged and swung in the air. “Listen. I need to go on a trip. I’ll be back, but I won't be able to visit you for a while, okay?”

Sylvio barked and continued to wriggle.

“He says he’ll wait for you to come again and can’t wait to play. Oh, and he’s asking you to bring back some sort of treat, too.”

“I’ll keep an eye out for something special,” he promised. “Love you, buddy.”

Sylvio barked again, and his eyes shifted into slits as he panted happily and let his tongue loll in acknowledgement of his happiness.

“He says he loves you, too.”

---

The warmth of steam wafted from the train platform as Ponies tended to the engine and worked to load bags. The sky above was overcast as the humans gathered next to the carts.

Matthew grinned as he gazed over the train’s cars. “We get to ride again!” He practically squealed his excitement as he looked over the various cars. “I hope they won’t mind if I take another stroll through the train. I can’t wait to compare models!”

“Calm down, Vulpix,” Taze Laughed.

“Calm down? Calm down? When we get the chance to deal with living history? Taze, you know me. I don’t just like trains. I love them! It’s like we’re stepping into an Agatha Christie novel!”

“I think we could live without the Murder on the Orient Express,” Shawn said blandly. “It’s bad enough that we’re being called to Canterlot at the same time as Twilight. You know that can’t be a coincidence.”

“There are no coincidences,” Taze said, doing his best Oogway impression.

“Isn’t that quote supposed to be, ‘There are no accidents?’” Matthew asked.

“Yeah, but that didn’t fit the situation,” Taze laughed.

“If they bring in a real dragon scroll, I’m out,” Matthew said. “Ask me to shoot something, I can do that no problem. Ask me to do martial arts and I’m up a creek without a paddle.”

“Given the nature of our beings, yeah.” Shawn shrugged. “In any case, it shouldn’t be much longer.”

“All aboard!” the conductor shouted. His blue uniform stood out sharply against the dull stones of the platform. “All aboard for the train to Canterlot Station!”

“Convenient,” Matthew noted as he hefted a bag over a shoulder and strode toward one of the train carts.

Taze shrugged and followed.

“Let’s get this over with,” Shawn sighed as he joined them.

“And now I have The Wizard of Oz playing through my head.” Matthew chuckled as he took a seat and began to hum the familiar tune.

“I still don’t like this,” Taze said.

“Oh, it certainly screams that something is going to happen,” Shawn agreed. “I just hope we’re put in the loop this time.”

“Didn’t Princess Luna imply that in her letter?” Matthew asked.

“Being told something doesn’t mean we’re fully in the loop.” Shawn frowned. “I could tell you that we’re building a camp in Ponyville. And while that is true, it doesn’t explain the reason for it, or what’s going on further.”

“Do you really think she would do that, though?”

“I don’t know.” Shawn sighed. “I want to believe she’ll do us right, but… I can’t help but feel anxious about it all.”

“I guess all we can do for now is take things one step at a time,” Matthew said. “That, and enjoy the ride.” He grinned. “What to hear some train trivia?”

---

As it had been before, the trio of friends now stood before the doors to Luna’s private quarters. A heavy knock heralded their arrival as the guards gazed with the level intent of trained warriors. The Thestrals were patient and courteous, but no entry would be allowed until the Princess saw fit to grant it. Shortly after the guard entered to alert Luna, the trio found themselves shuffled in to face the mare. The room was much the same, though the hammer that had once been sealed now hovered in place to await its mistress’ call.

“Welcome, my friends,” she said, smiling. “I hope your trip went well?”

“As well as it could.” Shawn nodded. “It’s good to see you again, Luna. Though, I hope the reason for needing us wasn’t too dire?”

“It’s a bit more complicated, actually. I’m sure you're aware Twilight Sparkle was called by my sister as well.”

“Given that we saw her at the station on her way here as well, we figured as much.”

“So this has to do with whatever Princess Celestia has in mind for Twilight?” Matthew asked. “You’re not asking us to be bodyguards for her, are you?”

“An anomaly has recently been reported by our scouts. The Crystal Empire, an ancient civilization which vanished ages ago, has recently reappeared to our north. Despite my own reasoning, my sister has decided to send Twilight Sparkle and her friends to aid Princess Cadance and Shining Armor in stabilizing it, and only them.”

“Is this going to follow the usual cliche of falling into the wrong hands leading to devastating consequences kind of thing?” Matthew asked.

“That depends on whether spreading dark magic throughout Equestria qualifies as devastating consequences.” Celestia appeared in a flash of sunlight as she looked to the trio. “The answer doesn’t require stating. However, I know that Twilight will succeed in her task. You needn’t worry about that. I wish to send you three to the Crystal Empire for a different reason.”

“And that reason would be...?” Shawn inquired.

“During the course of our rule, there was a certain Unicorn whose actions proved helpful in protecting the kingdom from various threats. His name has become a legend of sorts in the modern day. This stallion was called Star Swirl the Bearded. Before the time of his disappearance from the world, he studied all manner of magics, including a spell that was capable of opening a portal into other worlds. It’s a well known fact that Star Swirl had a laboratory in which he performed much of his research to refine that spell. If you can locate that lab and retrieve that information, we may be able to provide you with the means to return to your homes. It’s a long shot, but it’s the best lead that we have to help you right now.”

Shawn hummed for a moment. “Fair enough, I suppose.” He glanced at the others. “Your thoughts?”

“I’d like a risk assessment, personally,” Matthew said. “It seems to me Twilight is always sent when there’s a great evil about to take place. What’s the threat this time, and how likely are we to encounter it while we’re in the city?”

Celestia’s face grew grave. “The threat is very great indeed. Long ago, the Crystal Empire was ruled by wise and just Ponies whose magic was intricately tied into the running of the kingdom itself. So long as a kind and just ruler reigned, light, love, and peace would spread across Equestria, augmenting and strengthening the magic of all of its Pony denizens. Unfortunately, there came a time when a dark sorcerer deposed the rightful ruler and seized control of the empire for himself. Through evil enchantments, he enslaved the empire and sought to spread his control throughout Equestria. Only by great sacrifice and a united effort were we able to defeat King Sombra. Unfortunately, we couldn’t stop him from casting a curse that banished the empire from existence. A careful analysis of the magic traces left behind yielded an understanding that while potent, the spell would not last forever. Since that day, we have kept a vigil over the lands to the north, waiting for the day when our ally of old would return again, so that we might finish what we started.”

“And you’re just sending Twilight and her friends?” Shawn questioned.

“There are certain facts that have led to this decision. In part, because we wish to take our enemy by surprise. If we were to attempt to send a detachment of soldiers, it would only alarm the populace of the empire. Intelligence from Shining Armor indicates that the Ponies in the city are experiencing a form of mental trauma. An armed incursion will only serve to further unbalance them in a time when they need to heal for their magic to work properly and not be exploited by our enemy. Secondly, the true heir to the throne and its power is there under a close guard to ensure her safety and ultimate transition into power. The third reason is a state secret, and one which I expect you to keep to yourselves. Do I have your word that you will do so?”

“Fine.” Taze shrugged.

“Full disclosure is certainly better than what we had before,” Matthew agreed. “If a little secret keeping is the trade-off, I think I can handle it.”

After a moment of silence from Shawn, he sighed. “I’ll accept as well.”

Celestia nodded. “Thank you. As you all know, I am bound to the sun, just as Luna is bound to the moon. As a result of this connection, I am granted occasional glimpses into the future; premonitions, if you will. Likewise, Luna also holds this ability. I can’t will these visions to come to me, but when they do, they always come true. I have seen their success at the empire, and there were no troops to be seen. I dare not put that future in jeopardy by mustering an army, particularly if the anxiety and negative emotions generated by such a body could lead to hastening Sombra’s return.”

Shawn sighed once again. “And I suppose this is also a means of securing our safety as well, since victory is to be obtained by them.”

“Your mission will be equally important, not only for yourselves and your journey home but to prevent that information from falling into Sombra’s grasp. His priority will be power. If he were to gain access to portal magic of that nature, the future I foresaw could be put in peril. However, since humans are an unknown species in the empire, we can’t have you traveling as you are.” She smiled at her sister. “Luna, if you would do the honors?”

“With your allowance, we will be casting a spell on the three of you to change your appearance temporarily. Your disguises will be based on an approximation of what you’d be if you had been born here instead of Earth.”

“What determines this approximation?” Matthew asked. “Did you perform some sort of psychological analysis or something?”

Celestia shook her head. “The magic will decide. We could try to influence it if we wished, but that would be counterintuitive to helping you adjust to these forms in the first place.”

“We promise this is simply a measure to make this easier,” Luna said.

“I … actually have something that I should bring up first, if that’s the case,” Shawn spoke up. “I haven’t been able to determine it fully for everyone just yet, but at the very least, I may have … discovered a field of magic that we three may have the capability of wielding. The reason I bring this up … is because I’m not too sure how it might react to that.”

“What do you mean?” Celestia asked.

“And I’m sorry, but did you just say that we have magic?” Matthew asked.

“Maybe,” Shawn remarked. “I haven’t been able to fully check with everyone, but … here, let me show you.” He sighed as he held up his hand. After a few seconds a soft blue glow began to surround his hand before cutting out. “I’m still trying to figure it out fully, but it appears to be connected to a book I found recently and began translating. The power is called thaumaturgy.”

“And this power is supposed to block their spell somehow?” Matthew asked.

“It apparently reacts to outside influences defensively, so I don’t know.”

“Even if we let it happen?” Taze asked

“That’s the thing. We may be willing, but it may be harmful to it? I don’t know everything just yet, so I can’t fully explain whether or not it would be completely safe.” Shawn frowned. “In any case, if we are going to do this, given what I know already, I’d rather be the test subject myself first.”

Celestia looked at her sister, then back to Shawn. “If that is what you wish, we can work together to ensure that you are able to receive this spell. Does the book tell you anything about pain being involved in overcoming this … passive resistance?”

“I have no idea. I haven’t been able to translate it that far, as of this point.”

“And you’re still willing to take this risk? You needn’t go if you feel that this could be dangerous.”

“If it could help in finding a way home for us, I’m willing to take the risk.”

Celestia nodded. “Very well. Brace yourself, then, Shawn. And try to relax. I will strive to make this as swift and painless as possible.” The spell began by weaving what looked to be golden ribbons in the form of a great cocoon. It surrounded Shawn’s body, then slowly began to squeeze as Celestia pumped more of her magic into her horn. “If anything goes wrong, tell me, and I will reverse the spell immediately.”

The wrappings congealed into a solid form without layering and continued to press closer and closer to Shawn’s body until an almost perfect silhouette of light formed. However, as the coating tightened, it suddenly began to bulge and press at various locations around the body, forcing the power back and away from his skin.

“Shawn?” Celestia called.

“Go for it,” he called back. “Complete it by force if you need to!”

Celestia recoiled slightly as the bond roiled and the seams began to show again. She nodded, then flared her wings and raised her head high. The light around her horn became an intense projection as bright as the sun she directed during the day. “This may singe a little,” she warned. Then she brought her head down and thrust her horn forward like an epee in motion. The cocoon regained its integrity, and its squeezing continued, pushing and crushing against face, arms, torso, and legs. Nothing escaped. The roiling grew weaker and weaker as the scent of burning hairs filled the air briefly.

And then it happened. Piece by piece, Shawn’s body began to lengthen and shift. Mittened hands merged into solid blobs. The face protruded forward as two long pointed ears shifted up the sides of the head. The body hunched forward and gradually clopped heavily to the floor as the spine and hips realigned for quadrupedal movement. Arms lengthened to match hind legs that were rapidly transforming into a proper set of equine hindquarters, complete with tail. Lastly, a mane sprouted from the new head and down his neck before the light finally broke apart to reveal a newly formed Earth Pony surrounded by scorch marks. The stallion’s fur was a light tan with a dark brown mane. His eyes were closed, his teeth bared in a grimace that gradually softened as he breathed in relief.

“Shawn?” Matthew asked uncertainly.

Two intense blue orbs were revealed as Shawn opened his eyes. “T-tha…. That … was not pleasant,” he finally said, though it had taken him a moment to form the words.

“How do you feel? Are you hurt?” Celestia asked.

“Not at the moment.” He took a breath as he blinked a few times. “It is fading. I’ll be fine.”

“Can you walk?”

Shawn took a moment to lift each leg as he attempted to tie the muscles to a part of his mind. After a few moments, he slowly began to take a few steps that, while clumsy at first, quickly started to move in a more coordinated fashion.

Celestia sighed in relief. “No negative effects.” Then she nodded. “In that case, we should probably get started with you two next. Who wants to go first?”

“Probably best if I take the next go, so you have it down for Matthew,” Taze said as he stepped forward.

“Very well, Luna said as her horn began to glow brightly. “Let us see who you are, then.”

Silver and dark blue ribbons of magic formed Taze’s cocoon this time, and he did his best to will the spell to happen in order to avoid what Shawn had experienced. Soon, he too was covered as the magic congealed and began to enclose upon him. There was no roiliing or bubbles, though, as his body began to shift. However, unlike Shawn, the form that Taze began to manifest was anything but equine. Fingers lengthened and stretched into large sharpened talons. His head molded and reformed into a distinctly birdlike profile, complete with a hooked beak as his legs and feet transformed into powerful feline paws and hindquarters. A long feline trail grew out behind him as large wings erupted from his broadening back. When the magic receded, it revealed a black gryphon resembling a panther and a raven. His breast and the tips of his crest were a deep green. And when he opened his sharp eyes, they were an intense shade of dark blue.

Taze stumbled as the spell finished its work, and he hit the ground. “I feel weird,” he said. “Ish there something on my back?” he slurred, then stopped as his wings twitched and spasmed.

“He is all right,” Luna said as she checked him. “His body is getting used to the changes and his new wings.”

Matthew breathed a sigh of relief. “No stroke, then. Good.” Then he looked between the two sisters. “I guess that just leaves me now, huh?”

Celestia nodded. “Luna, would you mind? Performing that spell on Shawn was more difficult than it appeared.”

Luna nodded. “Of course, sister.”

Much like Taze, the magic wrapped around Matthew’s body to transform him. He also developed a pair of wings, though on a much smaller scale. Dark blue fur shone glossily over his hooves. As if a ribbon of the silver magic had decided to meld with his being, his mane and tail became shockingly white and seemed almost to glow as his new hooves clopped on the ground. Vivid eyes sparked with the familiar fire of his new species. Since he knew what to expect, he braced his legs and breathed deeply.

“Well,” he started, “that … was something.” He chuckled. “My heart’s beating a mile a minute.” He froze suddenly, and his eyes widened. “My heart’s beating a mile a minute, … and I don’t feel anything. Is this … am I…?” He put a hoof to his throat in an attempt to take a pulse, forgetting that he no longer had fingers with which to check. “Somebody do a scan of my body. Please.”

Celestia nodded, even as Matthew’s new wings shot out and flared in his excitement. Her horn glowed, and she pushed her magic over the former human to analyze his body, as requested. Then understanding dawned, and she smiled as she cut off her magic. “Congratulations, Matthew. You’re a whole and healthy Pegasus.” She approached and tapped the tip of her horseshoe against the Pony’s chest. “With a heart to match.”

“I have a real heart,” Matthew breathed. Then he crowed at the top of his lungs as his wings flapped, and he was suddenly airborne, nearly striking the ceiling. “I have a real heart!” A swift seizing of his body in Celestia’s magical grip saved him from a very ungraceful crash landing, but no sooner was he upright on the ground then he was bounding toward his friends. He didn’t care how much he stumbled or tripped. He could run. He could fall. He could bleed and not have to worry about not being able to stop it. The new Pagasus laughed exultantly as tears spilled from his eyes. “Guys! Guys!”

“You okay?” Taze smirked

“Is the sky blue? Is the grass green? Do I have bucking feathers?” Matthew laughed again as he wrapped his forelegs around Taze’s new neck in a great hug, then zipped over to Luna with the speed that his new Pony tribe was best known for to give her the same treatment. “Thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you!” It was hard to tell how much was sob and how much laughter at this point, but it was all Matthew. Energetic, ecstatic, and truly whole for the first time in his life.

“It was nothing.” Luna smiled gently, then let loose a laugh of her own. “Truly, I didn’t expect it. But I am glad for you, Matthew of Earth. Very glad, indeed.”

“Are these forms indefinite?” Shawn asked after a moment.

“Until we undo the spell, yes,” Celestia said. “You won’t need to worry about changing back in an awkward situation.”

“That’s good to know.” He nodded in thought. “This will certainly take some getting used to.”

Matthew giggled as he twisted his head around and looked at his flank. “I have a cutie mark!” And indeed, he did. A quill feather was crossed with a sword, as if in preparation for a duel. “What’s yours, Shawn?”

“It appears to be a smithing hammer,” Shawn replied as he looked.

“Well, I guess that makes sense. You did forge those gifts for us. But I honestly thought you would’ve been a shoe-in for something closer to woodworking,” Matthew said.

“I suppose it wasn’t meant to be here?” He shrugged awkwardly in response before making a face. “These motions are going to take some getting used to.”

Matthew smirked. “It’s a bit easier when you’ve got wings. Shoulders work differently for quadrupeds.” Then he grinned as he looked at his new appendages. “I’ve got wings.”

“So do I,” Taze smirked.

“There is one other matter to attend to in order to make your disguises complete,” Celestia noted.

“I would assume you’re referring to names,” Shawn spoke up. “Given ours don’t match the nature of how you’re all named.”

“Indeed,” Celestia agreed. “You are doubtless at least somewhat familiar with how our culture names their children. It should be a simple matter for the two of you to pick new names. As for you, Taze, Gryphon culture is different from that of Ponies. Their names can be singular or many depending on their clan and bloodlines, among other factors. In your case, it would be best to portray yourself as a clanless with no particular family ties. That will help to ease any anxieties that the Crystal Ponies might have over you and also justify using a single name. It will also allow you to avoid any attention that you might not want from other Gryphons.”

“Grif.” Taze shrugged. “Might keep people guessing.”

“That, and it’s short for Griffin, right?” Matthew guessed.

He shrugged again. “I’m not great with names.”

“Well, I guess I’ll keep it simple, too. The pen is mightier than the sword, but now I can use both if I want to and not have to worry about collapsing.” He grinned. “Call me Pensword.”

Shawn hummed as he looked at his mark once more. After a few seconds of silence, he finally looked back to the others. “Hammer Strike. Seems fitting enough.”

Celestia nodded. “Excellent. In that case, gentlemen, we have one last thing to iron out for this journey, that being your backstories. Officially, you have been contracted by the crown to escort Twilight and any others she sees fit to bring with her safely to the Crystal Empire. Once there, you will be free to carry out your other orders. We’ll include a letter bearing our seal to invest you with the necessary authorization and authority if Shining Armor questions you.”

“Okay, then. Will there be anyone who will know who we are, or is it a complete lockdown on our identities?”

“We leave it to your judgment. If you wish to disclose your identities, you may to those who already know your other forms.”

Shawn hummed. “Honestly, it may be an idea for Twilight to know to assist with alleviating potential suspicion.”

Celestia frowned. “Twilight can be nervous when she worries about disappointing me. If there’s a way you can help her to put her fears to rest and focus more on helping the Ponies in need there, I would appreciate it. She trusts you all. Particularly you, Shawn.”

“I might be able to do so.” He nodded.

“Then in that case, you had best make ready. Our armory is at your disposal. I also suggest you prepare for a fight and dress for cold weather. The empire lies in the far northern reaches of Equestria. When you’ve finished your preparations, we’ll have you escorted to the train to join Twilight.”

“Sounds good. Gives us time to adjust, at least to a point.”

Celestia nodded. “Sister, if you would?”

Luna nodded and summoned her escort. It didn’t take long to explain who the strangers were and what their orders were to be. With the new assignment given, the trio were swiftly escorted from the room to begin their preparations while Luna closed the door to gaze at her sister. “That was … strange,” Luna commented when they were alone.

“Strange is putting it mildly, Lulu,” Celestia said gravely. “We’re both thinking it. I’m just saying it. The manner of speech, the level exterior, and now the form he’s taken as a result of the spell I cast. It can’t just be a coincidence.” She shook her head.

“And the others,” Luna agreed. “You and Grif never did get along, did you?”

Celestia shuddered. “I keep half expecting him to pop up out of nowhere and call me Sunbutt. It’s uncanny. And if this really is that Pensword, it would certainly explain a thing or two about his intense loyalty to you. He always said you gave him a life.”

“You didn’t alter the spell?”

“How could I have? I was still recovering from the struggle to change Shawn.” She shook her head. “No. It seems that if he’d been born here, he never would have had the complications he faced on Earth. That’s the only explanation I can think of.”

“I feel like things have been set in motion we cannot yet fully understand.”

Celestia smiled ruefully. “Isn’t that just the story of our lives?”

---

“We should probably keep up the names, even alone, just to keep ourselves from slipping up later,” the newly-dubbed Hammer Strike spoke up as he looked through the available supplies for them to take.

“Are we going to bring armor with us or do you think it’d be better to go without for now?” Pensword asked curiously.

“I’d say light armor at best?” Hammer Strike hummed. “It’d help with the whole, ‘keeping the calm.’”

“Makes sense to me. This is all still kind of strange for me to believe,” Pensword said. “I can run faster than I ever could as a human, and now I can actually fly if I want to. Probably not well, but at least I can do it,” he said, even as his wings lifted him off the floor to hover briefly before he dropped back to all fours again. “Maybe I should ask Rainbow Dash for some pointers later. After we don’t have to hide who we are anymore, I mean.”

“Until then, we’ll just have to come up with a reason why you’re grounded.”

Pensword’s wings raised in a shrug. “I’ll just say I prefer to walk. If Fluttershy can get away with it, so can I.”

“Whatever works,” Hammer Strike replied before turning to Grif. “Anything you think you’ll need?”

“Aside from time?” Grif shrugged. “A bandolier, some kind of weapons harness, and a bag of holding, if those are a thing.”

“The first thing, I think I see. Second thing, I don’t know if they have anything for a Gryphon. Beyond that, I think you’re asking for something they don’t have a stockpile of.” He shrugged in return.

“Well, I'm just being honest,” Grif said. “I don’t feel comfortable going into this without weapons, you know?”

“That’s fair.” Hammer Strike frowned. “It still feels strange that this has become our norm.” He sighed. “In any case, get what we can. We don’t have long before the train arrives. Twilight’s already been informed, so we just need to meet her there before the arrival of the others.”

Pensword nodded. “I guess I’ll look for old faithful, then.” He approached a rack and picked up one of the bows. “Do you think I should grab a sword as well?”

“Whatever you’re comfortable with, or at least believe you will be quick enough to pick up.” Hammer Strike looked to the new sword at his side. “Though, previous equipment is obviously off the table.”

Grif took a pair of long swords and a set of throwing blades. After some hesitation, he grabbed a bow and quiver as well.

“If this is like Chrysalis, I suppose we should be ready for minions,” Pensword mused. “Do you think we might be able to find some background on Sombra’s magic and troops before we get on the train?”

“I don’t know if we have the time,” Taze said, testing the pull. “Besides, there is no real armor meant for Gryphons available, so I’m gonna have to check on that once we get there.”

“Even if we do find armor there, will it even be practical?” Pensword asked. “I mean, it’s an ancient society, right?”

Hammer Strike frowned. “I don’t know if that really matters.”

The trio were swift to arrive at the platform. For the sake of appearances, their escort was kept light. Twilight and the rest of her friends, along with Spike, were all waiting at the station. The Unicorn looked confident as she smiled at five very confused mares. Spike was struggling with a massive pile of luggage.

“So, … I’m guessing this is the station?” Grif spoke up.

“It certainly looks that way,” Pensword agreed. He offered a courteous nod in their direction. “Ladies,” he greeted them. “I assume Miss Sparkle has informed you of our coming?”

“I … was actually getting to that,” Twilight said awkwardly as she looked at her friends. “Princess Celestia has a special mission that she wants these three to perform while we work with Shining and Cadance to help save the empire.”

“Pleasure working with you.” Grif offered a small nod.

“Wonderful, marvelous,” Rarity said. “A mare could always do with a gentlemanly escort.” She smiled. “But enough banter. It’s rude not to introduce yourself to a future teammate.” She extended a hoof. “Rarity Belle. A pleasure to make your acquaintance.” She gestured to the other mares. “And these are Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and the cute little Dragon is my widdle Spikey Wikey,” she said cutely as she gushed over the young drake. “And I assume you already know Twilight, by reputation if not by sight.”

“Grif,” Grif offered flatly.

“I am called Pensword,” Pensword said by way of greeting.

“And I am Hammer Strike. A pleasure,” Hammer Strike replied with a small grin.

Twilight’s eyes widened at the words. “That’s … quite a name to live up to,” she noted. “Did you come from a military family? There aren’t a lot of Ponies outside the nobility and the Guard who’ve even heard of it.”

Hammer Strike gave a small smile and shook his head. “Not quite. Though some of my family have served.”

“So, you know a thing or two about how to fight, huh?” Rainbow Dash smirked. “Good to know.”

“Rainbow Dash, if Princess Celestia asked them to come with us, then they’re probably very good at … whatever it is she wants them to do,” Fluttershy chided. “We shouldn’t be rude.”

“Well, it’s awful nice to have y’all on board with us. I say the more the merrier,” Applejack said with a welcoming smile.

Pinkie Pie giggled as she passed three cupcakes to the warriors. Their surfaces read Bon Voyage in crystalline chunks of ground rock candy. “We’re gonna have so much fun on this adventure!”

“Thank you,” Pensword said before taking a bite of the confection. Then he frowned. “Um, Miss Pinkie Pie, … are you sure these are cupcakes? They taste like muffins. Very good muffins, but muffins all the same.”

“Do you like it? I call it my Cupcake Imposter Surprise.” She giggled. “Just call me the Muffin Mare! Or don’t. I’m not Derpy, after all.” She licked her lips. “Now she knows how to make some muffins.”

“Pinkie.” Twilight sighed and rolled her eyes, then smiled helplessly at the mare. “Thanks. I needed that to help me feel better.”

Hammer Strike gave a brief chuckle. “I’m certain your friends will keep your mood positive.”

“I wouldn’t do anything like this without them by my side,” Twilight agreed. “Together, I’m certain we’ll save the Crystal Empire and all of Equestria.”

“I’m sure of that.” He smiled softly. “Now, if I remember correctly, the train should be arriving soon, right?”

“Princess Celestia ordered it specifically for the trip. The station out there is old, but the rails have been maintained, so we shouldn’t have any trouble arriving in the northern reaches. We should reach the platform sometime tomorrow evening.”

Pensword’s ear twitched. “I think I hear it coming.”

Rainbow Dash raised a skeptical brow. “Seriously?”

Pensword shrugged. “My hearing is sharper than most. That’s one of the reasons why I’ve been brought onto this mission.”

A few moments later, the echo of the train whistle could be heard. A few minutes later, the engine settled into the station while Pensword smiled smugly.

“You are not normal, Pensword,” Grif chuckled

“And I thank my maker for that every day.” The stallion approached one of the train cars and pulled open the door. “Shall we?”

---

The new Gryphon swiftly covered his mouth as his attempt at a yawn started coming out as a roar. “Well, that's … new,” he commented to no one in particular as he looked around the cabin. Darkness enshrouded the space, and yet as he looked over the prone forms of the Ponies and Dragon sleeping, he could see almost perfectly. Taking a seat, he looked at his hand, or rather the assorted retractable bladed talons that had at one time been a much less lethal part of his hands. “This is all going to take some getting used to.”

A cursory bed count revealed one occupant of the carriage wasn’t asleep and … also wasn’t occupying said carriage. Instead of concern or fear, the Gryphon shrugged and strode to the door connecting their car to the next one over, curious to what his newly Ponified friend might be up to. The ease with which he crept silently across the floor went unnoticed to his semi-sleepy mind. He rubbed his eyes casually to brush the last of the sleep out of them as he turned the knob to open the way into the next car.

What sleep remained was quickly blown from his mind as his ears were struck by the barrage of sound coming from the wheels churning and clattering along the tracks with the creak of the swaying coupler and the roar of wind mingled with the heavy chuff of the steam engine. He practically leaped into the next car and slammed the door behind him.

On the other side, the Gryphon found “Hammer Strike” drawing out a design on an extendable table, like he usually did at this hour of the night.

“Given the sounds, I’ll assume that’s you, ‘Grif?’” Hammer Strike asked.

Grif nodded and sighed in bliss as the reduced noise. “Yeah. Woke up and realized you weren’t around, so I thought I’d check in on you.”

Hammer Strike nodded. “Fair enough. I’ve just been adjusting to our current situation. So far, at the very least, I’ve got most of my standard functions down.”

“Walking’s easy enough,” Grif agreed. “Still have no idea on the flight, though. Also a lot easier on the eyes right now than during the day.”

“Now you understand my pain.” Hammer Strike chuckled. “But I’m sure you’ll manage flying in time.”

“Yeah. Not looking forward to the area around the empire, to be honest,” Taze noted. “Snow blindness sucks as is. With these eyes? It’s gonna be unbearable.”

“We’ll manage. Or at the very least, we’ll have to manage.”

“Yeah.” Grif nodded. “What are you working on?”

“Weapons. For our new forms in particular.” He gestured to one of the blueprints off to the side of the table.

“That's … probably a good idea.” He nodded. “I don’t think we’re being told everything.”

“We aren’t. We never are told everything.” He sighed. “We just have to make do with what we do know.”

“Forewarned is forearmed, right?”

“I just hope we’ll be able to manage combat in these forms. Well, it shouldn’t be too difficult for you. Though you’ll still have a hurdle to adjust for in comparison to myself, where I’m working with hooves.”

“That's a fair point.” Grif nodded. “But it’s gotta be doable, right?”

“Of course. It’s just a matter of changing our own minds to manage it.”

“That's true, I suppose.” Grif yawned. “And it could always be worse. Mind if I keep you company?”

“Not like we have anything else we could be doing.” He chuckled briefly in response, then returned to his work.

The following morning led to a modicum of adjustment and success for Grif. While his talons had dug into and marred much furniture and carpet, he had learned some of the strength behind those dangerous implements and how best to grasp objects that would otherwise be destroyed. Hammer Strike had mastered the use of his hooves to shift his quill and avoid spreading ink over his fur and the page. Eight different blueprints laid off to the side. Some were intricately drawn with hints at minute aspects to utilize while others were only the barest sketches to outline a potential project.

At last, a heavy knocking at their door pulled them from the work. As the door opened, the sight of beds and bedding had all disappeared. Instead, a number of tables stood heaped high with steaming goods while a Pony in a chef’s hat served pancakes, waffles, crepes, and a number of sugary breakfast confections.

“We were wondering if the two of you wanted to join us,” Pensword called over the clattering of the tracks, motioning toward the Pony and the cloches on his handcart that had yet to be opened.

“Sure,” Hammer Strike replied as he neatly organized his blueprints.

Grif shrugged and headed for the cart in question.

“As one who has cooked for ambassadors from Gryphonia, the princesses have requested that I also prepare a meal more suitable for your palate, sir,” the chef said. Without further ado, he raised the unopened dishes and threw them like frisbees to land on an open table. Then, with equal skill, he removed each lid in a dramatic flourish to reveal a wide variety of eggs smothered in cheese, bacon, venison, Pâté, and other additions. “Of course, the other items on my cart are also yours if you prefer.”

“Oh, wow, this all looks amazing,” Grif commented while taking a seat. “I’ll happily try a bit of everything.”

The chef laughed. “Of course, sir.”

Pensword trotted to the table and hopped into the open seat of their makeshift booth. “Mind if I join you?”

“Be my guest,” Grif said.

As the passengers dined on the exquisite offerings from the chef, Pensword gazed out the window at the weather outside. White flecks darted in fat clumps that flew like daggers in the wind. The overcast sky blocked the sun, making the winter that they now plunged through perceivable as well as tangible.

“You know,” Pensword mused as he gazed over the white beyond, “whiteouts are probably a lot more common in the north. So are avalanches and snow drifts. I know the princesses said a curse was the cause for the city disappearing, but what if it was just … nature doing its work? Or nature being given a nudge to make it possible until Sombra came back? You know, sort of like how a mummy gets preserved in a high mountain?”

“A, it’s not cold enough,” Grif said. “B, that's not how cryogenics work.”

Pensword frowned and stroked his chin thoughtfully with a hoof. “Alone, perhaps. But like I said, if they combined it with magic, it might be possible. The princesses said he cast a curse. They never said what form or nature the curse took for the banishment.”

“Pretty sure nature wasn’t the vehicle,” Grif said.

“I guess we’ll find out either way when we get to the city.” Pensword’s nose twitched as the scent of the lucious meats wafted into his nose. “Um, … do you think I could maybe have a little of that paste?”

One could almost hear the record scratching as the other Ponies stared at Pensword.

“What? It smells good.”

Comments

[HB_DS2013]

Two ponies and a gryphon? If Matty's Ink Strike, and Taze's a gryphon, what's Shawn's pony name?

[El Comal]

oh no this is the begining of twilights qwest to make rainbow dash secretly an egghed.

[Commander_Pensword]

6324967

Maybe, maybe not, or maybe it is just friends poking fun at each other. Still that is up to you to decide, I know I have my own personal opinion, but I love how you are making a guess. Thank you.

[blitzfox]

5227302
His name is (X) SHAWN!!

(Heavy Rain reference)

[MJ]

No longer human for the fight? Fuck this.

[Draskos]

To be honest I forget if it ever becomes relevant in this story, but I recall a documentary of WWII I think where America made board games like Monopoly with hidden tools in the boards and pieces so that when POWs in Nazi camps got them to help keep them pacified they could take the games apart and stage breakouts and such.

[Icy Creation]

“Could you at least add that spiral too the barrel first? Currently I’d have this thing pointed at a building and have a better chance of shooting the person behind me.” Taze noted.

Xcom? Is that you?

[lainverse]

10366959
Not that bad. In XCOM you can miss the barn at a point blank range. From inside the barn. And with way more advanced weaponry.