An Extended Holiday

by Commander_Pensword

180 - The Return of the King

Extended Holiday
Chapter 180: The Return of the King

---

“They tend to be quite busy, I'm sorry to say.” Hammer Strike sighed softly. “While I had them clear their schedules for the week, the noble houses have proven difficult to them. I’ll have to fix that.”

“It’s fine. We can’t expect everything to be set aside for us,” Tempus said.

“I’m just glad they didn’t turn out like the … others.” Terra shuddered in disgust.

“I tried my best in raising them away from that.” Hammer Strike gave a soft smile. “Though there was war and strife, I always made sure to reinforce my guidance. I gave second chances. In rare situations, I gave a third chance, just to teach them everything I could.”

“A three-strike policy.” Terra nodded. “I approve.”

“It served well in deterring those who would attack our nation, though one race didn’t seem to understand.” Hammer Strike took a breath. “The backlash of that was more than I had hoped for, and I nearly made the Dragons go extinct in my anger.”

“Given their natures, I’m surprised they didn’t almost destroy themselves. Most field research indicated they’re rather selfish creatures to the point they would sell out their own families if it would gain them profit.”

“Indeed. Thankfully, a deal was struck to save them.” Hammer Strike directed their attention to his throne. “While it may be made of many of their scales, I’m sure you’ve both noticed something about the back of that throne.”

“Yes. It’s not the same as the rest,” Tempus noted. “It feels off, different, like it has a separate magical frequency.”

“That is a scale from Bahamut. On the other side is a contract written to save the lives of the remaining Dragons. It wasn’t my proudest moment, but it was still something that occurred, and I tried my best to make it a lesson to Celestia and Luna. I’m not joking when I say I nearly hunted Dragons to extinction. Were it not for Bahamut….”

“You easily could have done the same to us if it weren’t for what happened. If they pushed you that far, then I’m certain they deserved what they got,” Terra said. “And the fact they are still alive means that while it wasn’t your proudest moment, at least you were able to overcome it. Most of the Alicorns in the empire probably wouldn’t have.”

“Faust and Bahamut stepped in to stop me. I was blind in my rage and pulled on energies that I shouldn’t have.” Hammer Strike sighed. “I nearly ascended to some manner of a divine being. What it would have been, I’m uncertain. But, as you have mentioned, they pulled me out of it.”

“What do you intend to have them do once you take over again?” Terra asked.

“Celestia and Luna? Well, there will still be royal duties and all that, but I should be able to automate most of them like I did before, leaving them with more free time again.”

“I’m looking forward to seeing what they’ve been able to create over the millennia.” Terra smiled.

“Indeed.” Tempus nodded. “It’s hard to believe so much time’s gone by.”

“I’ll have to arrange what I can, then. While the trip to Canterlot would be good, I do have to, of course, give the standard warnings for nobles and all that,” Hammer Strike replied before humming in thought. “Grif should be stopping by soon, and I can settle things here while we’re away.”

“Somebody mention my name?” Grif asked as he arrived just as Hammer Strike finished.

A startled scream was soon followed by the familiar goat’s bleat as Terra leaped into the air, then fell on her back with her hooves sticking rigidly into the air.

“That was unexpected,” Grif commented.

“Where did he come from?” Tempus shouted in surprise as he leaped to his wife to try to pull her out of her fear-induced pose.

Hammer Strike looked to Terra and Tempus. “I … well, I did try to warn you.” He turned his attention back to Grif. “There’re a few things I need you to do, Grif.”

“Go on,” Grif said.

“I need you to watch over things in New Unity for today, and when I say watch over things, I mean I want things to be run as efficiently as possible. We have special guests, and I won’t settle for anything less today.”

“I’ll break out the flails,” Grif joked.

“To clarify, these are Terra and Tempus.” Hammer Strike gestured to the two. “The two who pulled me out of the testing facility in the Alicorn Empire. I’ve made a deal with Faust for them to have one day to see their daughters.”

Grif gave each a small bow. “Thank you for what you did for my lord. Even he has limits, and I’m not sure how much farther they could have been pressed.”

“It was the right thing to do. Honestly, you have Doctor Light to thank for all of this. If it weren’t for him, I never would have learned the truth,” Terra said.

“Modesty is great, but you shouldn’t push it too far, my lady,” Grif told her. “Your efforts made the difference in the end.”

Terra blushed. “Thank you.”

“Now then. I take it you have a reason for asking me and not the actually organized people like Vital or Clover?” Grif asked his lord.

“They have one day. I’m headed out as soon as possible, and you’re the fastest one to get around,” Hammer Strike replied. “I figure you’ll likely give this information to them while I am away, and everything can be settled.”

“I’d ask if you need the Gantrithor, but we both know you won’t.” Grif chuckled.

“While I would love for it to be the scenic route, we don’t have the time.” He sighed. “I’ll leave you to it.” He gave a nod as he opened a rift to his side. “Terra, Tempus, shall we?”

.

Terra nodded. She turned from the portal at the last moment to look back at the Gryphon. “I don’t know if we’ll meet again, Grif, but if you had any role in helping our daughters, then thank you.” With that said, she passed through the rift.

Grif and Tempus traded a nod before he, too, passed through the rift.

Hammer Strike gave a small smile before nodding to Grif and leaving through the rift, closing it behind him.

---

Tabby Poser smiled beatifically as she stepped away from the stand with a steaming crepe hovering in her magic. The streets of New Unity may not have been so grand as Manehattan, but there was a definite sense of peace and kindness here that reminded her very much of the old days with her friends, even with that knucklehead Drake nearly blowing their cover with every other sentence. It was … nice back then. The only thing missing now was the rich smell of coffee and curry. She could almost taste it.

…

Actually, she could taste it. Her eyes widened at the sight of a familiar steaming carryout container as a white Unicorn shoveled chunks of the dish into his mouth with a dreamy smile on his face.

“Um, excuse me!” she called as she raced after him. “Excuse me, sir. Could I talk to you for a minute?”

The stallion continued contentedly, clearly unaware that the inquiry was directed at him.

“Hey, would you slow down for a sec and just listen?” Ann puffed as the clatter of her hooves reached the stallion’s ears and he turned with some surprise to stare at the winded mare.

“Sorry, I thought you were talking to somebody else.” The stallion furrowed his brow. “Say, aren’t you the mare Hammer Strike had us take back from Manehattan?” He frowned uncertainly. “Tabby Cat, right?”

“Tabby Poser.” Tabby groaned. “Why is it that everyone always thinks it’s Cat?”

“Probably because that’s what comes to mind after hearing the first part of your name,” the stallion noted. “Since I couldn’t remember your name properly, I’m guessing you probably don’t remember mine.” He extended a hoof. “Vital Spark. A pleasure to make your acquaintance once again, Miss Poser.” He smiled as the two shook hooves briefly. “Now then, Tabby, I hope you don’t mind my calling you Tabby, what can I do for you?”

Tabby blinked in surprise. “I, um … wanted to know where you bought that…” She pointed weakly at the carry container and chuckled nervously.

Vital Spark shrugged. “A new place that opened up recently. Pensword recommended it. I have to say, it really is some of the best curry I’ve ever eaten. The owner’s a little standoffish, but he’s a good host.”

“What’s his name?”

“Didn’t catch it all, but I know it has to do with Coffee. Coffee … something?” Vital Spark blinked as he stared at the mare. “Why are you grinning and vibrating? That’s supposed to be Pinkie Pie’s thing.”

The mare was suddenly in his face as her excitement burst to the surface. “Where did you say this restaurant was?”

“I … didn’t. Um, could you maybe take a step or two back? Pinkie Pie is one thing, but you’re not her, and I really prefer to only let my wife get this close normally.”

Tabby chuckled nervously and took a few steps back. “Sorry about that. It’s just, … I think I may know the owner, and he was really close to some friends of mine. I just really wanted to get back in touch, you know?”

Vittal Spark shrugged. “If you say so. I’m on break, so I guess I can afford to walk you there. After that, I need to make a run into Ponyville to talk with Rarity about a little side project, assuming she’s available, so I’m afraid you’re going to be on your own.”

Tabby smiled. “I’m sure I’ll be fine after that. Thank you for this, though. Really.”

Vital chuckled. “Promise not to get in my face like that again, and I think we can call it square. I usually prefer dinner and a date before kissing, you know.”

Tabby’s whole face turned bright red as Vital Spark led the way back toward Coffee Karē’s shop.

---

Hammer Strike couldn’t help but grin as everyone was gathered for dinner. Terra, Tempus, Celestia, Luna, Yharon, and Clover were all seated around the table. While he would have liked Rarity to join them, she needed to get back to her work in Ponyville, especially since she had been away for some time.

“So, you are a feathered dragon?” Tempus asked, looking up at Yharon.

Yharon spread his wings meaningfully. “I could perform a spell or two, if that helps,” he said mildly.

“Dear, you’re being rude,” Terra chided gently.

“It’s no difficulty for me, Ma’am,” Yharon said respectfully. “I used to be asked that question often when Father introduced me to the rest of the settlement after I’d learned how to speak.”

“It’s just, by the time I was born, your kind had been gone for a while already.” Tempus explained. “It’s kind of like meeting a living dinosaur.” He seemed excited. “Uh, no offense meant by that.”

“Honestly, it’s a blessing that my kind died before yours could take them. From what little I’ve learned about Father’s time with you, my kin would not have been treated kindly.”

“I don’t think anyone's kin would have,” Tempus agreed. “When one loses their grasp on ethics, they don’t think about the repercussions.”

“At least we no longer have to worry about that side of things for the time being,” Hammer Strike spoke up.

Yharon nodded. “And I have the chance to know at least a little bit about another part of the family. That is something to be celebrated.” He smiled and raised his cup. “To Faust for granting this boon, and to Father for arranging this wonderful gift to my dear sisters. May happiness and good fortune bless them both.”

Celestia smiled kindly. “Hear hear,” she agreed as she raised her own cup. “You always did have such a wonderful way with words, Yharon.”

Yharon chuckled. “You can thank Mother for that one.”

“Well, I taught you all the best things you know,” Clover said. She laughed as she raised her own glass.

“Including never to critique you if I value my sleep and my sanity,” Yharon said with a playful smile.

“That's Momma’s smart boy.” She chuckled.

“I must say, it’s a pity that Father couldn’t be here with us. He would have loved to talk with you about some of the magics you’ve unlocked. I find your contractual magic between those spirits particularly fascinating,” Terra noted.

“Well, I have always had a broad range of magical ability. However, after certain events, my possibilities became countless.” Clover shrugged. “I’m essentially immune to arcane corruption.”

Terra furrowed her brow. “That shouldn’t be possible. Then again, I suppose the same can be said of us here and now. Did you have the assistance of a god?”

“No, just a contract with him.” She gestured to Hammer Strike.

“Your power again?” Terra surmised as she looked to their host.

“The best way I can explain it without it sounding completely horrible, corruption is harder to occur if a soul is already owned by another.” Hammer Strike tried explaining before frowning. “Nope, still sounds horrible either way.”

“So, she gave you her soul to protect it, essentially, but without actually doing anything to it?”

“Close enough.” Hammer Strike nodded. “I … may have done this to most of my close aides.”

“It’s a sound strategy,” Tempus admitted. “Kinda shocking you could bind so many. Soul binding is usually very taxing.”

“Yeah, … through my method, it’s actually incredibly easy.” He frowned. “In any case, I ensured they could explore any field they wished without worry of corruption.”

“The implications of that are … mind boggling, to say the least,” Tempus noted.

“I assume, as a matter of course, that since they’re bound to you, they can’t do anything that goes against your will regarding the magical studies they pursue?” Terra surmised.

“We can’t do anything that would directly put ourselves, Unity or it’s people, or Hammer Strike in danger,” Clover explained.

“And Bonnie is all right with that?”

“As long as the bond is voluntary on both ends,” Clover explained. “Though, to be honest, she was so far gone at that point, I doubt she could have done much.”

“Yeah, her name was practically forgotten over the course of time. And though I offered to bring it back long ago with the Thestrals, she requested I wait until now to do so, which I have done already.”

“Binding magics, distilling moonlight. What’s next, resurrection?” Terra asked.

Hammer Strike paused briefly as he thought over the idea before shaking his head. “Unless you count my own minor resurrections, then I don’t think so.”

“You mean the regeneration from the medical cube?”

“No. In the empire, after some surgeries, I did die,” Hammer Strike replied. “It was … strange, to say the least. I stood outside of my body with the previous Death at my side trying to find me on her list. With my power, I pulled my soul and body back together. It’s not pleasant. And the last time I did it, I flew into a fury at anything near me.”

Terra shuddered. “Yes, I remember those feeds before the cameras were destroyed.”

“Thankfully, I haven’t needed to do that again. The closest use I’ve had to medically assist myself was fusing my bones back together. Beyond that, it’s been calmer. Apart from the ten or so wars.”

Terra sighed. “Must everyone always try to pick a fight with you?”

“They didn’t want to lose their power, and they were desperate for the supplies and wealth we had accrued,” Celestia noted. “It was fairly logical, at least if you look at it from their way of thinking.”

“Indeed. It was an interesting time.” Hammer Strike gave a soft smile. “I met many who gave their all for building and defending Equestria.”

Yharon smiled sadly. “You would have loved Hurricane. He was a paragon among his peers. That Pegasus helped make Luna the warrior she is today and built up our armies from a group of ragtag volunteers. Without a doubt, that stallion was a miracle worker.”

“Sounds like a competent thinker.” Tempus nodded. “The Pegasi were always gifted when it came to war.”

Yharon nearly choked on his drink as he recalled a particular incident from the past and laughed. “You should have seen them after their medics got through with them. They practically beat their warriors black and blue.”

“Oh, that was a grand show.” Hammer Strike smirked. “They deserved as much, if not more, but at least it was settled at that point.”

“I am admittedly curious,” Terra said. “If a Pegasus can ascend to become an Alicorn, and so can a Unicorn, then does that not also mean a normal Earth Pony could become an Alicorn if the proper conditions are fulfilled?”

“Probably. Though the thought sounds horrible.” Hammer Strike hummed. “Given it’s mostly an ascension through magic, it may be possible….”

---

The jingle of Rarity’s doorbell immediately brought the mare to the entrance, where a broad smile soon graced her face. “Well, if it isn’t Vital Spark. Come in, come in, darling. I wasn’t expecting a visit from you so soon.”

Vital Spark returned the smile. “It’s good to see you, Rarity, but I admit I didn’t come here for a social call this time.”

“Oh? Then what can I do for you?”

“I have a little project I’d like to commission from you, if you don’t mind. I know you’re probably busy with the other orders and projects you’ve been working on after that fashion show, and there’s not exactly a time limit per se on it, so I can wait if you have a queue.”

Rarity waved her hoof. “Nonsense. For a friend, I can craft a design in a heartbeat, or, well, at least draw up the design,” she amended. “Is this something for you, then?”

Vital Spark shook his head. “No.” He opened one of his saddlebags and pulled out a familiar wide-brimmed, star-studded hat, followed by a matching cloak. “Something for my wife.” He chuckled. “She’s in a class with Clover right now, so I took advantage of her absence. She really loved her time in that wagon, and this hat and cloak remind her of that, but they don’t really suit her anymore.”

“And you’d like me to design something that will?”

Vital Spark nodded. “I was hoping you’d still have her measurements from when you designed that dress for the wedding. And since it’s not a full set of clothes, I figured it wouldn’t take so long as if you were to do an entire ensemble.”

Rarity frowned. “I suppose I could try it,” she mused. “Most of my work has focused on dresses and the like before, but I’ve worked my share of costumes over the years. Give me some time to think it over. A wedding is one thing. A showmare’s hat and cloak are quite another.” She levitated the articles of clothing and ran the material through her hooves, then examined the remainder of the work. “Hoof stitched,” she noted. “A little worn around the hemming, probably from having to start over a few times, not to mention the wear and tear of travel. The seams are slightly askew, but the workmanship is sound. This is something she took pride in. Are you sure she’ll be all right with you doing this? She might prefer to make her own.”

“And if she does, then she can. I just thought I’d surprise her with something nice. My mother may have been a seamstress, but I know absolutely nothing about how to sew.”

Rarity smiled. “That really is very sweet of you, Vital Spark.”

“Isn’t that the whole point of being a special somepony?”

Rarity giggled. “How very right you are. Well, darling, I think I have what I need for now.” She levitated the clothing back to the stallion. “I’ll see about drafting some sketches and designs for you to look over later. Was there a particular time you’d like to drop by, or should I just send you a note when they’re ready?”

“I think I’d prefer the latter. It leaves me with more flexibility. And if you ask Spike to send it, it should be able to reach me directly, wherever I am, which makes it a lot less likely to fall into a certain showmare’s hooves.” He winked and smiled as he stowed the garments again. “Thank you, Rarity. This means a lot to me, and I think it will mean a lot to her, too. I can give you a down payment now, if you need it.”

Rarity waved her hoof dismissively. “We can discuss that later. I haven’t even done any of the hoofwork yet.”

Vital Spark nodded. “All right. In that case, I’d better get my butt moving before Trixie gets back to our room. Thanks again. I’ll be back later with a little something to express my gratitude. And I won’t be taking no for an answer, Rarity. Consider it a token of friendship,” he said. And then, in a flash of light, the stallion was gone.

Rarity swore. “Hammer Strike is rubbing off on him a little too much, I think.” Then she sighed. “Ah, well. I suppose a mare can’t be the generous one all the time.” And with that said, she returned to her work room, where her backstore of dummies and orders awaited her attention.

---

Hammer Strike sighed to himself as he stood along the wall of New Unity, looking over the growing city with Terra, Tempus, Celestia, and Luna close by. They had spent the entirety of their twenty four hours together in some manner, seeing the sights of Equestria and other locations he could get them to.

“Quite an eventful time, would you not agree?” Hammer Strike asked the group.

“Thank you,” Tempus told him. “Even if it was just a day, it was nice to see them again.”

Terra hugged Celestia and Luna in a crushing grip as tears stood in her eyes. “I’m so proud of you both.”

Luna hugged her as gently as she could. “Thank you, Mother.” Tears dropped freely from her eyes.

“Now don’t you go forgetting about us again,” Terra teased the younger sibling in a choked voice. Then she nuzzled Celestia. “And you don’t let your genes define who you are. You’re more than just a teacher.”

Celestia smiled gently as she wrapped her wing around one side of her mother. “I’ve learned that over the years. Hammer Strike taught us well.”

“The best I could.” Hammer Strike gave a soft smile before frowning. “The time approaches.”

“I’ll miss you,” Luna said as she wrapped Tempus into a hug.

“I’ll miss you, too.” Tempus returned the hug. “But we’ll always be listening. We may not talk back, but we’ll hear you.”

“I’m sorry I couldn’t do more.” Hammer Strike sighed. “But, at least I was able to get this going.”

“It’s more than we ever could have asked,” Terra said.

Hammer Strike took one look out to the city once again. “It’s time.” He sighed. “Faust, I request your presence to conclude our deal.”

There was neither a flash nor the tinkling of bells, only the gentle rustle of feathers as the goddess folded her wings and gazed upon her children. “I’m sorry that I could only give you this much. I just hope it was enough.”

Terra smiled. “More than enough. I just have one more request, if you would allow it, Mother.”

“And what is it that you would ask, my daughter?”

“Will you allow us to watch over our daughters? We do not ask the impossible, but … we would still see them, their lives, their progress, if you would allow it.”

“I cannot let your spirits linger here, but I can provide you with the means to watch over them.”

“That's all we ask,” Tempus said.

Faust nodded. Then in that case, it’s time for you to go.” She raised a wing, and a portal manifested. “Go ahead, you two. Your family is waiting.”

The two parents gave one last look at their progeny, then nodded to Hammer Strike and stepped through to that divine realm. Faust nodded and then turned to the party.

“Faust,” Hammer Strike spoke up, “you never did tell me what the price would be.”

Faust smiled. “Let’s just say I have a commission I want you to fill. I’ll drop by with the details later. But first,” she turned to Celestia, “I have one last gift to give.” She approached the solar Alicorn and pulled the mare’s chin up, so she would look her in the eyes. “Celestia, you have lived for such a very long time, and you have suffered much heartache. I cannot take that burden from you, but I can offer you this.” She leaned close to Celestia’s ear and lowered her voice to a whisper of a whisper, a dying breath. Or, perhaps, a breath of life. “Your beloved Arthur lives.”

Celestia stiffened as her face went dreadfully pale. Her legs trembled. “Wh-what did you just say?”

Faust smiled sadly. “You know what I said, child. I’m afraid I can say nothing more than that.” She looked to Luna and bowed her head. “You both have done so much for this world, but your tasks are not yet done. Stay the course, and all will be well.” She turned and approached her portal, then paused for a moment. “Oh, and Celestia, use that information well.”

Then she passed through the portal and was gone. The sun remained frozen on the horizon as Celestia stared after where the goddess had once been in open-mouthed stupefaction.

“I have a few questions, but I’ll save those for another time,” Hammer Strike muttered. “Hey, Luna, what do you think a goddess would commission?”

“Probably something for divine power.” Luna said.

“Yeah, that still adds many questions.” Hammer Strike frowned. “I’ve only really made one… no, wait, four objects of that scale…. Nevermind.”

“I don’t think she’d want something ridiculous,” Luna noted.

“I don’t even know what she’d want in the first place.” Hammer Strike sighed. “I should probably prepare my forge.”

“I’m sure she’ll approach you with what she wants and the materials to make it from,” Luna said. “The divine tend to be picky with what they want things crafted out of.”

“Hopefully, on the whole bringing me the materials part.” Hammer Strike shrugged. “We’ll see when the time comes. Oh, and Celestia?”

Celestia blinked as Hammer Strike’s voice plunged into the depths of her astonishment and pulled her out like a lifeline. “Y-yes?” she asked.

“We’ve got a few things to discuss later, all right?”

“Um … yes. All right…. I just … need a little time first.”

“I understand that.” Hammer Strike nodded. “But I think it’s about time I learn of how things went on your adventure. We’ll discuss it sometime after I take back the throne.”

Celestia nodded numbly.

“Also,” Hammer Strike pointed toward the sun as thaumic energy coalesced around his hoof. Before long the sun started moving once again below the horizon. “Do try not to forget about the sun. I may be able to move these bodies because they’re tied to your will, but let’s keep things tied to your schedule, all right?”

Celestia blinked in surprise. “I’d … forgotten you could do that.”

“Well it’s been awhile since I’ve had to. I mean, the first few months you both had this power, your schedules were so off I had to figure out something. If it weren’t for the fact that they yielded to me easily after you tied yourselves to them, I would have taken more drastic measures.”

“How drastic?” Luna asked.

“Essentially a repeat until you both settled on things.”

“You’d have died,” Luna pointed out.

“I would have found a method to avoid it, as per usual.”

“Over our dead bodies,” Celestia said fiercely.

Hammer Strike gave a brief soft chuckle. “I didn’t need to take those measures, so at least there’s that.” He sighed. “That’s that, though, so I suppose I should return to my work.”

Celestia nodded. “Perhaps we should come by the forge then. It’s been a while since we actually worked on a project together, and I would love to meet your apprentice in person.”

“Yeah, that took a moment to adjust to, considering it was, to me, thousands of years ago, so I lost track of what I’ve taught her….” He frowned.

“I, too, will enjoy meeting your apprentice. It is nice to know I’m not alone anymore,” Luna commented.

“Though that still leaves one rather important matter unaddressed,” Celestia noted. “I’ve had Twilight. Father had us, and now this apprentice. Yharon has Gilgamesh. Who is going to be your apprentice, sister?”

“We shall see, sister. We shall see.”

---

Grif waited at the door to Hammer Strike’s office. He’d received a summons earlier to drop by when he’d have time. He didn’t even bother to knock. He knew Hammer Strike knew he was there.

Hammer Strike looked up from his papers briefly before turning his attention back towards them. “There you are.”

“Hey. You needed to see me?” Grif asked as he entered.

“I did. There is something that I have decided to give you, though I need to modify it slightly beforehand.” He sighed before standing from his chair. “I’ll need you to do me a favor in order to do this.”

“What do you need?” Grif asked, lifting an eyebrow.

Hammer Strike pulled the waystone out of his coat. “Basically, close your eyes, don’t ask questions, and follow my instructions until I tell you to open your eyes again.”

“Okay.” Grif shrugged and shut his eyes.

Hammer Strike sighed as he activated the waystone. “Face right, ninety degrees, and walk seven steps forward.”

Grif did as instructed, feeling strange the whole time. He had no reason to distrust Hammer Strike, but it was still a strange request.

“You’re good to open your eyes,” Hammer Strike commented, pocketing the waystone once more as the two stood within his personal forge. “Sorry about that. It doesn’t work unless nobody is looking.”

“Holy—” Grif commented as he opened his eyes wide and looked around. “You’ve been holding out on us.”

“This was part of a trade I made with a duo of dwarves. We’re disconnected from Equestria at the moment.” He pointed toward the large root in the center of the forge. “That is a root of the tree of Yggdrasil.”

“Yggdrasil, as in the world tree?” Grif asked.

“Correct. This forge was made by Brok and Sindri in trade for an unbreakable anvil. I’m sure you can keep your mouth shut on them being here.” Hammer Strike nodded. “Comes with any tool I could ever need, and more materials than I may need.”

Grif’s beak opened and shut for a few minutes. “You know what? No, I shouldn’t be surprised anymore. The closest thing there is to dwarf gods. Of course you’ve met them.”

“They searched for me after I made said unbreakable anvil.” Hammer Strike smiled. “You haven’t even seen my favorite part. Stand over at that ‘wall’ and say a type of metal.”

Grif did as instructed, “Uh, electrum?” Immediately, a small shiny ingot came from the blackness. “Okay, that was cool,” Grif admitted.

“Be sure to put that one back. I actually haven’t measured how much electrum I have. They never told me how much they gave me….”

Nodding, Grif tossed the ingot back into the blackness.

“The greatest forge I could ever need.” Hammer Strike smiled before directing Grif’s attention over to his work table where a familiar silver blade sat. The only piece of it that wasn’t right was that it was missing a pommel. “That is why I brought you here.”

“That's a silver sword,” Grif commented. “Why would you make one?”

“I made that long ago to fight an elder vampire and various other creatures of the night. It is both marked with an ancient rune to instill it with further power and blessed by Bonnie herself. I gave it to Anderson, a Gryphon Faustian, during my rule to defend those around him.” He sighed. “But that was then. Anderson passed long ago, and his last act was to preserve the remaining pieces of Unity’s crown within the cathedral walls. It can never tarnish, it can never dull, and it will always remain pure, one hundred percent.”

“That sounds like several nightmares to create,” Grif commented.

“It was. But, since I no longer need it, it is time I pass it down to the next to wield it.” He turned toward Grif. “Considering your line of work, and the efforts you're going with for it, I chose you.”

“I—wow, thanks,” Grif said. “That will make life easier.”

“Indeed. But there is one last thing I will add to it.” Hammer Strike picked up the missing pommel, which was empty. It appeared to have been made to hold some kind of gem. “Have faith in what I am about to do, all right?”

“I trust you,” Grif said.

Hammer Strike sighed as thaumic energy collected around his hoof. After a moment, he reached out and placed it on Grif’s chest. He glanced over what he could see before reaching towards his own chest and pulling something from it, a soft blue teardrop gemstone. “This one should work.” he finished, lowering his hoof once again.

“That's some powerful gem.” Grif whistled as his feathers rustled in response to the power he felt emanating from it. “You sure you trust me with that?”

“I do. I have to remove most of these from myself, and you are one of the individuals I trust enough for it.” It was a simple matter to mount the stone into the pommel’s housing. “I used them a rare number of times, but I prefer not to.” He frowned as he secured it in place. “It’s almost like they call out to me when they are separated.”

“I’ll do my best to be worthy of the trust you put in me,” Grif said, gulping a bit.

“I’m sure you’ll be fine.” Hammer Strike attempted to give a small smile before attaching the pommel to the blade once again. “Though I admit, my paranoia takes over at times, given the fact that I bound those of the past to me. Ainz, Binding, and Clover being the primary ones. This once, I’m going to push myself beyond my paranoia.” He took hold of the blade, giving it one last look over before flipping it in his grip and offering it to Grif.

Grif carefully and respectfully gripped the sword and took it, admiring its feel in his talons. He gave it several waves, testing the balance and the movement. “It’s great,” Grif commented. “Not quite what I'm used to, but easily adjusted to.”

“Indeed.” Hammer Strike reached over the worktable and took hold of a sheath for the blade, offering it to Grif. “Should you require a different sheath, tell me and I’ll make you one suited for your needs.”

“It should be fine.” Grif took the gift and sheathed the blade with a flourish. With a few minor adjustments, he managed to attach it to his weapon harness comfortably just under his left wing. “You know, you're going to spoil me on regular weapons.”

“Trust me, that’s not hard.” Hammer Strike chuckled. “Let’s just hope I don’t have to make something similar to my scythe.”

“Your scythe?” Grif asked.

Hammer Strike reached out to his side as the air wavered before pulling his hoof back. WIthin his grasp, the dreadful scythe materialized, perfectly maintained and prepared at a moment’s notice. “Baleful Eclipse.”

“Hammer strike, that's a divine weapon,” Grif commented.

“Based off what I was told, this is more in nature with a god-tier weapon.”

“You have a god weapon?” Grif asked incredulously.

“Somehow, I managed to make it through two soulbound weapons. Though they did come from those special dice we’ve found before.” He looked at the blade. “No corruption, no cost, no issues. The only thing it doesn’t like is when I try to use another scythe, even a practice one.”

“You made a god weapon?” Grif asked, flabbergasted.

“... If you count staves, I’ve made four.” Hammer Strike noted after a brief pause. Taking a few steps over, he stomped his hoof six times on the ground, triggering a slot to open. “I also traded for this.”

“Is that...?” Grif asked, looking at the two and a half ingots in the slot.

“Uru, yes. They gave me three, and I’ve used it as sparingly as possible. But I have used it in Ainz, Binding, and Clover’s staves. Hence why I bound the three of them by their soul to mine,” he commented, closing the slot once again.

“All of this, I'm guessing, is a state secret?” Grif asked.

“More than just a state secret.” Hammer Strike nodded. “In fact, if you are unsure on whether you can keep it a secret, I can request Ainz to remove the memories of seeing it, though that is entirely on you to choose. Sleipnir can’t know this place exists. I can’t even use the waystone when he’s looking in my general direction.”

“Hammer strike, I’m your spymaster. I’m the one who knows where the bodies are buried. If I couldn’t keep a secret, you wouldn’t have me killing people under your authority.”

“As I stated, that was for if you couldn’t trust yourself with this.” Hammer Strike gave a brief chuckle. “I should still introduce you to Ainz, and Swift Wings, since she was my resident spymaster and assassin in the past.”

Grif nodded. “Well, at least you kept intelligence going while you were gone.”

“Indeed. Though I’ll need to catch up with Broker at some point as well. Last I remember was that he seemed to be awaiting my ‘return.’” Hammer Strike pulled out the waystone once more. “Same rules apply to leave, by the way.”

Grif shut his eyes. “Let's go, then.”

Hammer Strike chuckled as he opened the gate. “Eight steps forward.”

---

“You know, it’s strange,” Night Terror said as she looked up at the starry sky. Pensword had invited her to join him on his outing to check the progress of the new airship docks.They trotted toward the edge of the city, where the skeletons of the wooden structures had begun to spring up next to the massive one Hammer Strike had constructed for the Gantrithor. “In Canterlot, everything was so divided. Everything had a place, and it wasn’t ever allowed beyond those bounds. Here, it’s different. The people, the culture. Just … so much. It all blurs together, and yet, somehow, instead of a great mess, you get all of this.” She motioned toward the city’s walls and the compound that lay beyond its boundaries.

Pensword smiled. “That is the point. You have Unicorns watching in real time to see a Pegasus practice maneuvers for combat. Then they see what may or may not work for their own styles and adopt it. Thestrals might see a Unicorn habit they like. We are showing that when you drop personal barriers and take the opportunity to learn and grow from others, you develop a unity that is stronger than the parts that make the whole.” Their hooves clopped hollowly as they started up a ramp to overlook the storage yards. “What is stronger: Copper, tin, or maybe an alloy of the two?”

“I thought smithing was supposed to be Hammer Strike’s area of expertise,” Night Terror teased.

“A good soldier should know where one’s weapons come from,” Pensword answered with a chuckle.

“And the tools for his craft?”

“Of course. It’s good to know how to take care of them, handle them, where they come from, how they’re made. All so one can take care of them correctly.”

“And where do your tools for romance come from? After all, you already managed to woo two mares. I’m curious. What’s your secret?”

“I’m just me.” Pensword shrugged as he brushed a hoof along one of the sturdy stone walls of the storehouse. The structure was coming along well. It had already expanded a great distance. “I stay true to my heart and the course of action I choose.” His smile widened into a hint of a smirk. “And I can see you swing your wings around me just a little. At this point, I think I can safely say you at least have a crush.”

Night Terror sighed and shrugged as she looked skyward. “Who can say? I’ve never been in love before. My whole life before was serving my father and the house. All this freedom is wonderful, but it’s confusing, too.”

“Which is why you can trust and lean on any of the Bear Clan for help. We know this is new, and in some ways, a protection. After all, both of us could be under your father’s crosshairs.” He chuckled. “Someone of your stature and mind shouldn’t be treated like some … tool.” He spat at the word. “You should be free to become the mare you want to be, no matter what that may be, from Solar Court Noble to berserker in the Everfree forest.”

“Have you actually met a berserker before?” Night Terror asked curiously.

“Yes, back when I was learning under the tent of my Grandmother.”

“What are they like?”

“Barely contained rage. They are always tense, on alert, and will start brawls for the fun of it. On the battlefield, they’re like mad bears, feeling little pain as they bowl through lines and enemies with reckless abandon. They are a foe I would wish only on the worst sorts, but an ally who would go to the very pits of Tartarus for you if they thought it needed to be done.”

“Isn’t there a risk of them turning on you if they enter such a rage?”

“We give wide berths for them, and we never get in front of them. Years of experience have taught us that they often differentiate by scent in that stage. Any scents that they’ve been around for a long time, they won’t attack. They might fight over them, toss them aside even, but never hurt the scents they know. That’s why berserkers are always in the midst of a camp, to learn the newcomers’ scents and spend time with new recruits or visitors.”

“Have you ever gone berserk before?” Night Terror asked curiously.

Pensword paused and thought back hard. “When I took Fort Triumph, I suppose. At least that’s the closest I’ve come. I saw Red, and all I could focus on were the Gryphons that destroyed my family and town. I tore through that place like a Gryphon recruit starving for prestige. For a Thestral, that’s an impressive feat. I had help, of course. I couldn’t have done it alone. But yes, I’d say that was my biggest rage moment. Go talk to Grif about what he remembers. He can probably tell you more.”

“Maybe later. It’s too nice a night to go barging into his sleeping quarters. Besides.” Night Terror giggled. “I don’t think his wives would approve.”

Pensword chuckled. “You’re teasing me. You’re actually starting to loosen up. I wonder what the old mare who first arrived here would have said. How scandalous.” He smiled. “It’s about time. Your family was starting to worry.”

“Baby steps, Pensword. Baby steps,” Night Terror reminded him. Then she picked up the pace. “Come on. We’ve still got more to see for this inspection of yours, don’t we? I’d rather not keep Moon River waiting any longer than she has to. You know how she gets when she wants to play.”

“I know, I know.” Pensword smiled. “You make it more challenging for her, you know. She likes that.”

Night Terror smiled. “If the courting doesn’t work out, at the very least, I still want to be her aunt. She’s too cute not to want at least a piece of her.”

Pensword chuckled. “She does have that effect on people, doesn’t she? All right. Consider it done.”

---

The air filled with the now all-too-familiar purple flash as Princess Twilight Sparkle teleported into the castle’s main entry hall. As one cleared from the wardings, it was no surprise for the troops to see her arrive. Blinding, perhaps, but not surprising. The familiar squat shape of her brother and number one assistant stretched and yawned while Twilight fussed over a cape that swathed her. “This is so embarrassing,” she muttered. Silver and purple stars of varying sizes dotted the deep purple of the fabric while a hemming of ornate billowing clouds spread from the edge of the lining.

“It’s Rarity,” Spike pointed out. “You know how much style means to her.”

“I mean, I’m flattered she thought of me, but I’m not so sure capes are really my thing.”

“You didn’t think that when you dressed up as Star Swirl,” Spike pointed out with a playful smile.

“I didn’t think my ears would be ringing with bells for the next week after either,” she muttered. Then she sighed. “Well, the least I can do is put its protection to the test for the practical exams.”

“You’ll wipe the floor with those mages either way,” Spike said. “I mean, you are the element of magic, after all.”

“That doesn’t make me invulnerable, Spike.”

“But it sure makes you look cool.” Spike smiled. “You’ve gone horn to horn with Clover the Clever. Strike that, you’re the descendant of Clover the Clever and Hammer Strike! I mean, how cool is that?”

“I guess so.” Twilight sighed. “It just puts that much more pressure on me, too. It’s hard to cope with sometimes.” She smiled slightly at the Dragon. “Promise to come cheer for me after you finish with Hammer Strike?”

Spike grinned. “Of course! What else are little brothers for?”

“Do you really want me to answer that?” Twilight asked with a smirk.

“On second thought, … nevermind.”

Both looked at each other, then laughed. Twilight wrapped a hoof around the drake in a hug. “Thanks, Spike. I needed that.” Then she rose and turned toward the main doors. “I’ll keep an eye out for you.”

Spike shot her a thumbs up. Then the doors opened, and she passed into the courtyard, where Clover and the other mages of the current class waited. Spike waved until the doors boomed shut again at the urgings of the gatekeepers, and then he was alone in the hall with just himself and the guards on patrol. He swallowed.

“Guess I’d better get this over with.” It was one thing to bump into Hammer Strike casually or hang out. It was quite another to receive a summons directly from the Pony that was technically his adopted many-greats-grandfather.

The journey to the great hall and the throne room that followed was perhaps one of the longest in his life, but traverse it he did. The doors groaned with a terrible sound as he pushed them open. Someone really needed to oil the hinges on those things. Hammer Strike sat at the far end of the hall on a massive throne made from….

The drake gulped when he took in the Dragon scales and the bones jutting out over the armrest. His heart rate picked up, but he knew he had to approach. After all, it was Hammer Strike. Even if it was a … bigger, more scarred, … glowy-eyed version. He chuckled nervously and rubbed the back of his head as he drew closer to the throne. “Uh, hey, Hammer Strike,” he greeted awkwardly. “What’s up?”

“Hello, Spike.” Hammer Strike gave a small smile. “I apologize for having to bring you along with Twilight, but there was something that I needed to confirm with you.”

“Me?” Spike pointed at himself with a claw. “Well, sure. I mean, if you need my help with something, that’s kind of my thing. Uh, … what is it you need to confirm, exactly?”

“Something you wouldn’t know yourself, but with a test, can be confirmed.” He raised his voice. “Yharon, you can come in now.”

Spike’s eyes widened at the sight of the fully grown dragon that padded into the space. Twilight had told him about the Feather Dragon, about how he was precious to Hammer Strike, how he was different from other Dragons because of his capacity for magic. But she never mentioned anything about just how big Yharon was. The dragon had to be as big as, if not larger than, Garble and his posse put together. The voice that emerged from the creature’s maw was gentle and refined. No bravado passed from those lips. No threatening stance was taken. He was completely at ease with the throne room and his proximity to the new Hammer Strike.

“Hello, Spike. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.” Yharon casually approached and extended a hand in greeting.

“Uh, hi,” Spike returned, having once again been blindsided by meeting such a grown up Dragon. He took Yharon’s offered hand, and the much larger talons encased his own.

Yharon smiled reassuringly. “Glad to finally know you. But now that we have the niceties out of the way, I need to ask your permission to do something, Spike.”

“And what’s that?” Spike asked nervously as Yahron released the grip on his hand.

“Father would like me to perform a spell on you. It’s nothing harmful, merely something to verify certain information that’s fallen into our metaphorical laps of late. However, as one of my scaled cousins, you hold a natural resistance to most forms of magic unless you either trust the source or give that source permission. I know you don’t have grounds to trust me yet, but since you have Father to vouch for me, would you be willing to grant me permission to cast this spell on you?”

“What’ll it do?” Spike asked.

“I suppose the best way to explain it is that it will give me a view of your essence and the ties it has to others. It’s not harmful in any way, shape, or form, I assure you.”

Spike shrugged. “Well, I mean, if that’s all, I guess it’s okay, but I still don’t get how that’s supposed to help Hammer Strike.”

Yharon smiled as his body began to glow. “You might be surprised.”

A light glow surrounded Spike as the magic took its effect. The young drake chuckled at the tingly sensation. Vapors rose in varying hues of purple, green, silver, and finally a familiar blue. Yharon nodded and the magic faded. “It’s there, all right.”

“Uh, what’s there?” Spike asked. “I didn’t accidentally eat some sort of valuable magical artifact or something, did I?” He began to probe his stomach gingerly.

Hammer Strike shook his head. “No, he simply confirmed what I was curious about. To put it simply, you were never told where your egg came from, correct?”

“Yeah,” Spike said. “So what?”

“Though I don’t know the complete origin, I do know where it was obtained from.” He sighed. “Your egg was found in an empire long decrepit, hidden away from the world. The Alicorn Empire, to be precise. Do keep in mind, the Alicorns of that island were quite different from the ones here and now. Celestia and Luna are one of the last to come from that place before its fall.”

“So, are you saying somepony took my egg when the island fell?”

“Celestia found your egg many years after it had fallen. The empire had … tampered with your egg, adding onto it to create something they could manipulate. The chamber you were found in was conducting experiments on my genetics to create soldiers with my strength. Most of them failed, but you, on the other hand, survived, unable to hatch until an abundance of magic could break the shell.”

Spike frowned. “That … doesn’t make a lot of sense, actually.”

“Which part of it?”

“Well, Yharon said Dragons like me, scaled ones, I mean, are supposed to be resistant to magic, right? So if that’s true, then how could Twilight have hatched me in the first place? It just doesn’t make sense to me.” He frowned.

“I have a feeling her outburst of magic may have had more to it.” Hammer Strike frowned. “After all, the records of that day did specify it as … completely abnormal at best. Someone, or something, had assisted, most likely.”

“So, … what does all this mean, then? Is something wrong with me?”

Yharon chuckled and shook his head as he approached the young drake and laid a hand on his shoulder. “It means welcome to the family, Spike.” He smiled. “Or should I call you little brother?”

Spike blinked in disbelief as he peered first at Yharon, then at Hammer Strike, and his primary processes ground to an immediate halt. “Uh, … what?”

“My genetics were added to your egg, Spike. In other words, though you have a mother and father who are Dragons, the Alicorns essentially added myself to your family tree, making you almost like a son to me, since you are a direct line from myself,” Hammer Strike explained.

“Oh.” It took a few minutes for those words to really sink in. Finally, a big grin spread over Spike’s face. “Cool!” he cheered.

Hammer Strike blinked a few times. “You took that better than I anticipated.”

“How many people can legitimately say they’re directly related to Hammer Strike?” Spike asked.

Yharon chuckled. “He does have a point, Father,”

“Just wait till I tell Twilight! I mean, we were already family before, but now I can say it’s by blood!”

“That … is going to be interesting.” Hammer Strike hummed. “I suppose that will have to wait until Clover’s lessons are done.”

“That reminds me. I promised Twilight I’d watch her at the assessment matches today after we finished here. You guys wanna come help me cheer her on?”

Hammer Strike gave a brief chuckle. “Though I won’t do much cheering, I suppose I can at least guide you,” he commented, standing from his throne. “You’re free to go about your day, Yharon. That should be everything. Unless you wish to talk more with Spike, learn more about your ‘new’ family member.”

Yharon smiled. “You read my mind, Father. Besides, I haven’t seen Mother in combat in ages.”

“Sadly, that isn’t going to change.” Hammer Strike chuckled. “Unless you’ll be pleased with the most basic of sparring matches at best.”

Yharon grinned. “And since when have you known Mother to hold back when she’s teaching?”

---

The air was cool and moist as a gentle breeze blew over the Everfree Forest grounds. The Night was young, and stars shone brightly in the heavens alongside the delicate crescent moon that curved and bowed, as if with the doting smile of a loving parent. The rich grass that grew in this clearing was lush and fresh, one of the few places where the black roots of the forest’s corrupted growths seemed to yield in their voracious attempts at domination. The dark was lit by the familiar light of gold and red eyes that glowed as they basked in the radiance of the aspect that embodied their deity’s influence. From the settlement to the surrounding lands and tribes, the delegations had come, each bearing the initiates who would begin to learn that most precious of arts. For with the emergence of their deity’s name came also an emergence in powers and magics that few, if any of their kind, could understand.

At the center of that clearing, two figures stood firmly, each bearing a long bo staff. The white Unicorn’s fur shimmered under the moonlight, and the Zebra’s fur seemed to pulse in time like a living heartbeat as the moonlight filtered across her black stripes and was reflected by the white. The two equines looked at one another and nodded as the Unicorn stepped forward.

“As you all know by now, the first High Chief has returned and claimed his place as your king. With that return came the return of something very precious to you all, the name of your god, or rather, I should say your goddess.

“There is power in a name, and many deities require their subjects to know their name so that they may be properly worshipped. When this comes to pass, that god gains strength through the faith and adherence of their followers. And as a result, that god is able to grant gifts, powers, and boons to their servants as signs of favor. In many instances, these arts can be passed from generation to generation. However, if they are forgotten, then they will fade until the time comes to awaken them again. You are all here because the gifts of your clans that have diminished and wavered have gained new strength through your worship.

“The wolf has awakened. The seers are no longer blind. The astral now joins the material. And the dead regain a listening ear. These arts are connected to your patron, yes. But more importantly, they are tied to your spirits and the planes to which they are attuned, with all their wonders and dangers. It is the duty of myself and my sister, as requested by your High Chief, to train you in how to control these gifts, so that you may in turn teach others these basics until we are able to train proper teachers to guide each of the tribes and clans who awaken to these powers.”

His gaze travelled over each of the gathered Ponies. They varied in age from young foals to fully grown mares and stallions. “To those who do not know me, I am Vital Spark, friend to your High Chief and to Commander Pensword. To those who do know me, forget that you do. I am to be your teacher first, no matter what our relationships outside of this space may be.” He motioned toward the Zebra. “This is my sister, Zecora. Since the powers that you have unlocked are tied into the spirit, it is our duty to train you in the arts that will grant you control in these fields. In short, we are to train you to become as we are, shamans, with all the rights and privileges such an office entails.”

Zecora knocked her staff on the turf and gazed on the Thestrals with her own radiant yellow eyes. “Know that this path is not a joke. Without proper training your fires will stoke beyond the bounds of your control, and you and loved ones will pay the toll. Heed our words if you are wise, else harsh lessons await, and you lose what you prize.”

The students remained solemn and silent as they listened.

“As I said before, the purpose of this gathering is to teach you control. We aren’t equipped to help you to the end of your journeys. And frankly, it is unlikely that they will end for any of you in this life alone. However, as you have noticed, we are not Thestrals, nor are we necessarily well versed in Thestral culture. My sister may be, but I assure you that I am not. We will require you to put aside certain traditions and traits for the sake of proper communication and learning. If you have a question, you are encouraged to ask it. If you are spoken to, we ask you to respond. We will have no fancy titles or hidden languages here. However, we will also have respect and kindness. Troublemakers will not be tolerated. And for anyone who attempts such things, know that my sister and I are far better versed in our arts than you are in yours. To put it in terms that may come more easily for you, our rank is Teacher. Your rank is Student. Our power is tried and honed. For many of you, you have yet to even scratch the surface.

“Now, then. Since we’ve established that little bit of order, I would ask that each of you form up in circles around my sister. She will guide you each through the basic principles associated with our arts, starting with the most essential part of the equation, finding balance. I will join you all shortly. However, before I do so, I need to have a word with Pensword.” He nodded and pointed with his staff. “Go on now. I’ll see you all soon.”

The students looked at the commander with pity as they followed Zecora. Even among the Thestrals, in most cases, anyone getting called out before the first class had even begun was a bad sign.

Pensword looked nervous and dejected as his friend approached. His ears drooped with his head as he waited for whatever criticism the Unicorn might have for him. He hadn’t even had a single lesson yet.

“You look like someone just died, Pensword,” Vital Spark noted bluntly.

“Vital, here in the present, this is on the heels of pretty much everyone coming down on me for all my failures. And … being called out in front of the class on the first day, before the first lesson, is usually a big sign of disfavor between the teacher and the student.”

“I said I was going to be a teacher first here, and I meant that, Pensword. But I would be a failure if I chose to be that kind of teacher without giving you a proper chance.” Vital shook his head. “I’m pulling you aside because you’re one of the few Ponies here that’s actually had the chance to experience at least a fragment of training in his gift. And unlike the others who have come here, you’re still the only Pony with the gift to see beyond the veil of death, at least with this batch. I want to find out exactly how far that training and discipline went before we join the others.”

“Well, I can explain what I remember. It’s just we don’t talk to folks outside of our circle.” He sighed. “But since you are the teacher, I can tell you what I was taught, both by the living and the dead. You are entitled to that knowledge.”

“I don’t necessarily need it in-depth, but what you can tell me would be appreciated, so we can help you reach your full potential. Your peoples’ arts were already degraded significantly, judging by the amount of time that’s passed since they worshipped Bonnie last. Telling me what you already know now will save us a lot of redundancy later.”

Pensword nodded. “Well, usually, it takes decades for one with my gift to even hear, let alone see those who have passed on. Even then, how I gained the full sight was just as rare as two blue moons in the same month. My thaumic field probably helped that to develop. Second, well….”

The conversation was a slow one as Pensword peeled back the layers of his experiences to help his teacher understand and perceive as much as possible.

Vital Spark nodded sagely. “Given what you’ve told me here and what we’ve experienced in our travels, it’s obvious that our two arts are going to be separate. While Zecora and I are capable of making contact with the astral plane, our primary mode of contact lies with spirits of nature, rather than of the dead. For those who are dreamwalkers or can see the future, Zecora and I will be able to help, because those have to do with mastery of the mind and body to unleash the potential of your spirit.

“Your case, however, is unique. Rather than controlling your own spirit, you reach out and communicate with those who have yet to pass into the afterlife. And given the fact that you have a spirit guide available whose gift is knowledge, you have an invaluable resource, a sort of built-in tutor, if you will. Tell me, how often do you commune with him?”

“Every evening, or our version of morning. He helps to make sure the Gryphons and other spirits stick to my schedule. After the spirits leave, we usually have a brief discussion about the things I’ve learned, followed by guided instruction. I didn’t exactly have much time to get trained properly during the war, and Dakota hadn’t come to me yet, so I was sort of on my own. He’s trying to help me break some habits.”

“And you can call him anytime and anywhere?”

“Yes.” Pensword smirked. “He’s been staring at you for the last ten minutes. He seems mildly proud of your questions.”

“Good. Then we’ll have a lot to talk about and focus on in the near future. I’ll need to consult with Zecora over how to proceed with Dakota. We may be your earthly teachers to help you unlock your spiritual potential on the physical plane, but he’s likely to be your greatest asset when it comes to understanding and navigating the climbs and the pitfalls of the veil and those who lie beyond. I may not be your teacher in thaumaturgy anymore, but it’s clear that we’re still going to have a lot of ground to cover.” He smiled and spoke into the air. “Dakota, I give you my thanks. However, your charge and I have a meditation session to get to. We’ll chat later.” Vital Spark motioned toward the group. “Come on, Pensword. Let’s see what tricks we might be able to pick up for you to learn.”

Pensword looked at Vital. “You do realize that if you ever need to have a conversation, I am going to be a translator?”

“Good. That’s more practice to have under your belt.” Vital’s smile widened. “Now come on. I want to see just how well you can calm that processor of yours,” he said as he tapped the side of Pensword’s head.

---

Grif Sat alone hidden in the vault he’d created in the compound. With the continual expansion of the clan and his own family, finding places to be alone had become tricky. He looked over the manuals before him for the third time, reassuring himself that while the feng shui around him was not perfect, it was far from harmful.

His time with Zecora’s help learning to stoke his internal furnace had ended relatively early on with the discipline he intended to follow being different than her own. Most of all, because it was a human discipline. From what he could tell, there was no Equestrian full equivalent to cultivation. The stoking of one’s inner self to pursue the perfection of body and soul was indeed common in Equestria, but the use of anything besides magic to do so was relatively unheard of.

Thankfully, in the multitude of books and texts he’d brought from Earth, he’d managed to uncover a handful of guides on the subject. Even so, there was a lot he had to work out himself, given that he needed to create a way to make use of his energy without interfering with his internal magical field, his divine seed, or his thaumic field. When he’d first managed to enter his dantian, not long after returning home from his run-in with Sombra, he found the ki sea a spiraling frothing mass, like waves being thrown about by a hurricane. In the center of this great maelstrom, he found, to his shock, his divine seed. It was neither white nor holy, like many would expect, but a thing pulsing with billowing windy power as it threw his spiritual energy around like a tantruming child.

Even now, as he closed off his mind to the world and entered that sea, he found the storm angry as ever before. With a careful but firm will, he bent the energy within and forced it to slow. The ki calmed gradually and returned to the center. A subtle current still spun the force around the divine seed, however, due to the will that seemed to flow from that source. With concentration, he directed the energy into the meridians, letting it feed and nourish the body. As it brought back the black filth that was ever accumulated in the mortal body, before the ki sea could try to purge it, it was detected by the thaumic field and destroyed. Grif couldn’t help but grin at this. It was unfair compared to the normal way such filth was expunged, but it seemed his unique mix of powers had their own advantages.

Once he concluded this daily process, he began to cultivate, attracting the essence which Equis so richly produced into his dantian and compressing it into ki, which would add to the storm, prompting the calm pond to return to the hurricane as he did. The power flowed gradually under his careful supervision as the sea spun and stretched.

As this cycle progressed, Grif allowed his mind to wander. The action slowly became easier, requiring less involvement from his active mind. By the time he thought to check the time, three hours had already passed by. With a grin to himself, Grif allowed his consciousness to return. He stretched, cracked his neck, and worked his joints before turning to leave the room. The effects of cultivation were already becoming evident. His lack of sleep had become less and less draining on him the more he worked at this. Soon, he’d be able to push himself to more intense training, and then he’d truly start to see what this discipline could offer him.

---

The great amphitheater that was the meeting hall of the House of Nobles was awash with the murmur of speculation and rumor. The more time passed, the more Ponies of all the houses streamed through the various entrances. What had started as a mere summons for a basic session was clearly developing into something far more serious. The Solar Court had not been gathered in this manner since the legislation to restore the army to Equestria. And before that, to be gathered in such a body by the urgings of the princess was practically unheard of, save in times of crisis.

Suspicious glances passed between the parties as the various factions sized up their competitors in search of any signs that might indicate a foreknowledge of the events that were to come. Nopony gave anything away. Those who speculated either made fools of themselves or increased the fervor that was rapidly taking hold of the stallions and mares who even now had begun to take their places on the tiers surrounding the pit below. The two princesses’ thrones sat in rigid repose, unyielding to the suspicious glares and probing minds that beamed upon them, as if through concerted effort, the very materials from which the furniture had been made would reveal the hidden agenda of the diarch who had summoned them.

“She’s already pulled rank from some of our oldest houses. The thought of what else the princess might have in mind this time churns my stomach,” Jet Set murmured wearily to Fel Jade.

“At least it’s not going to be an execution,” Fel Jade returned. “Celestia would never pull something so barbaric.” She shuddered and shook her head, as if to dispel the ghost of a terrible memory. “By the looks of things, this is to solely feature the Solar Court. I don’t see a single Thestral among us.”

“Please, don’t jinx it,” Jet Set murmured in disgust.

“There will be time enough for worry later, ladies.” Lord Blueblood’s voice was at once smooth as gelato and cold as shaved ice. “For now, let us prepare, rather than allow uneasiness to scatter our thoughts and run them over a cliff. We’ll see what comes in due course and act accordingly.”

Fel Jade sputtered her annoyance. “I still hate it.”

In the lower rings, the more liberal nobles huddled in their own private conference. Twilight Velvet gazed between Platinum, Fancy Pants, and Hurricane.

“Do any of you know what’s going on?” Twilight Velvet asked as she looked hopefully toward Fancy Pants.

“Don’t look at me,” Fancy Pants protested. “I’m afraid I haven’t the foggiest.”

“The speaker doesn’t know the agenda? Now that is rare. I thought the officers always knew what the commander wanted them to do,” Hurricane said with a throaty chuckle.

“Lightning, you know full well that Celestia isn’t always forthcoming about her intentions,” Platinum chided.

“There are a lot of nervous Ponies here,” Lightning said. “All we need is for someone to lock us in here for all Tartarus to break loose.”

“Now, now, old boy, let’s not get ahead of ourselves,” Fancy Pants soothed. “No one is in trouble, and no one is getting locked in.”

Hurricane stared flatley at his colleague and ally. “I’m a soldier, Fancy Pants. If I don’t plan ahead, the soldiers under my command can die. I prefer to have contingencies in mind, especially in unfriendly territory,” he noted as he eyed the upper rings.

Fancy Pants shook his head. “They wouldn’t dare in public. To try anything rash would only place them at a greater disadvantage than they already find themselves in, now that their wealth and influence have been diminished. They aren’t going to gamble what they have left so lightly.”

What deliberations remained to be had were soon put on hold as a bright flash of light overhead seared through the murmuring to usher in the quiet that only a formal royal presence could command. The princess’ face was demure and perfectly calm as she descended slowly to the ground. Her golden horseshoes and peytral were freshly polished, and her mane and tail seemed particularly radiant as those ancient eyes gazed on each and every noble present.

“Mares and gentlecolts, you have my thanks for responding so swiftly to my summons. Rest assured, I do not call you all here lightly. I apologize for the deception, but I wished to gather without raising alarm or spreading any ill rumors over the events that are even now unfolding around us.” The murmur rose again, and Celestia had to raise her voice to speak over it. “As a number of you may be aware, there is an ancient and, indeed, sacred law throughout our land regarding the succession to power and the right to rule not as princess or regent, but as a true and rightful king or queen.”

She paused a moment to let her words sink in as many Ponies began to look sick. Others still looked bewildered or pale. The majority, however, were confused.

“I have gathered this session today because a claim to the right of dominion has been made, and as the legislative body of this nation, it falls to you to act as witnesses in this trial.”

The chamber erupted into a bedlam of noise ranging from cries of shock to the most strenuous of objections.

Amid the chaos, Lord Blueblood rose to his hooves. His horn glowed as an aura wreathed one of his hooves. Then he let it fall with a deliberate strike. The reverberation that carried through the chamber echoed with the force of a thunderclap. “I think,” he began as all eyes turned to him, “that it would be best for the princess to explain before this illustrious body falls to anarchy.” His cool blue eyes fell on the solar diarch. “If you would, Princess Celestia? I have my own objections to voice after the legislative body has been informed.” The stallion exuded calm and a cold aloofness ingrained through years of practice. The only sign of his displeasure that could be noted lay in the one violent thrashing of his tail as the floor was yielded yet again to the princess of the sun.

“I thank you, Lord Blueblood, for helping to bring us back to the point at hand.” Celestia nodded to the stallion and the crowd. “Long ago, in a time before the Discordian Era, before Hearth’s Warming, two young fillies were spirited away from the destruction of their home with their sole guardian. Together, they traveled many miles over the span of years to reach the land that would one day come to be known as Equestria.

“In due course, that family grew in prominence and stature among the races that dwelled there. And over decades, dominion was achieved, along with the creation of what would become one of the most prominent kingdoms to ever exist, with a power so great that not even the Gryphons in their prime could stand against it.

“The wielder of that power was known as king, and he ruled justly, raising his two charges in his role as guardian to ensure that they would one day grow to be honest, faithful, and true leaders in their own rights. Those charges were Luna and myself. And when the time came for us to stand and rule in our guardian’s place, we knew we did not wish to do it as queens.

“As such, it was agreed between us that a challenge must be set to identify the one who was worthy to take up that mantle. There is great significance in three. There were three gods who were responsible for the forging of this world. Over the course of our growth, a third joined our ranks as a sibling. And by royal decree, only one who is able to find and wield the three great arms of that king shall bear the right to rule.”

Celestia’s horn glowed as she carved the outlines of the three weapons into the air. “The Might of the sun, whose unrestrained power beats down upon the land and can render even the greatest and most solid structures to so much slag is embodied in a mighty hammer. The power of the moon, revered by the Thestrals, lay within a mighty sword with grip and pommel as black as night and blade a boney white bleached like the moonlight. To wield this weapon is to wield control over all the clans of the Thestrals, wherever they may be. And lastly, that which was born of the two made one, the scythe that made the world tremble at its making, for it was born of the union of two heavenly forces, and so became more than the sum of its parts. Though he was not a god, this king forged the divine. The sun, the moon, and the divine union. These three weapons are the crown jewels of this king’s legacy. These three great arms protected our nation. And these three great arms will decide who bears the true right to rule.”

With a final flourish of her horn, the forms she had projected faded, and Celestia was left to gaze upon the gathering. “This law has stood immutable and unchangeable throughout our rule from the moment the king left us to this very day. It is the one law that I refused to change or remove, despite the machinations of some of your ancestors. However, ancient though it may be, it is still valid, and anypony has the right to stake their claim and present their case to me, my sister, and the nobility.”

“And who, pray tell, is foolish enough to waste this body’s time with such a preposterous claim?” Blueblood asked. “Those weapons were lost to time. Not even you know where they were hidden. And you expect us to believe that another has found them in your stead?”

It was at this point that the doors were thrown open once more as a unit of Gryphons and Ponies strode in, armored with weapons sheathed. Blast and Tower led the Ponies to one side of the room as Grav’var led the Gryphons to the other.

Horns ignited. Wings were raised as Pegasi prepared to take flight. Earth Ponies flinched back or tensed to brace themselves against a potential invader. The troops that arrived did nothing more, however. There was no drawing of arms, no lunge or act of aggression. The Pegasi that had taken to wing hovered uncertainly. Then it hit. The world seemed to become almost muted as a great pressure filled the room. Pegasi fell like stones. The harmony of the Unicorns’ magic was muted and silenced as the vibration was snuffed with the lights they projected. And as for the Earth Ponies, well, they stumbled against their chairs and ultimately fell, as if disoriented.

“You fail to understand one thing,” Hammer Strike’s familiar voice called out as he slowly strode forth through the doorway. There was a collective gasp at his appearance, despite the fact that everypony knew exactly who he was. “While the weapons may have been lost to everyone, they were never lost to the one who made them and hid them.”

Celestia smiled. It was all she could do to hold back the smirk that threatened to slide over her face. “Lords and ladies of Canterlot, I give you our claimant to the throne, Lord Hammer Strike of New Unity.”

The gathering erupted into an uproar, for the stallion that was irrefutably Hammer Strike had been through some very drastic changes since they had seen him last. For one, the imposing figure now stood taller than their diarch. His eyes, which had once been so piercing, now glowed with an unnatural light as his great blue coat clung perfectly to his frame, despite the growth spurt he had experienced. His scars, those that were visible at any rate, had become more prominent. And when he strode down those stairs, there was no sense of respect, nor of familiarity, only the steady gait of one who knew the command of absolute authority and wielded it without even the slightest exertion. It would be better to say that he exuded it, rather than commanded it as he finally reached the bottom and joined Princess Celestia. A single twitch of an eyebrow and one very strong stamp of his hoof forced silence over the chamber, along with a light shower of dust from the ceiling while the tremor subsided.

“It has been many long years since I ruled Equestria, though clearly many things have changed.” He sighed. “Not all for the better. So, I deemed it time to return completely, and to reestablish how things should be.”

“Rule Equestria? How dare you?” Sapphire seethed. “Equestria was founded by the two sisters. Everypony knows that.”

“It’s an insult to everything Equestria stands for!” Fel Jade cried.

Hammer Strike reached to his side as Ulkrusher appeared in his hoof, before flipping it in his grip and slamming it into the ground in front of him. “Then you failed to listen to my daughter’s story. While the image of myself that had been present in Equestria after my rule and before my arrival may have looked different, the one who stands before you is the one who founded this nation. I spent years raising them, fighting to form this nation and grow it, and I refuse to let you all claim falsehoods against myself.”

“It’s a lie, a compulsion,” one of the Unicorns sputtered. “Surely, the princesses would not have hidden such information from us!”

“I told them to rule in my stead,” Hammer Strike said simply as Astral Abyss formed in his hoof and followed its sibling into the ground at his side.

Blueblood’s neck bulged with the strain placed on his jaw as he gazed with a paling face. There were tales that had been passed down over generations of the monster that could kill magic. Now it appeared that the myth had been made flesh in the form of the abominable thing that stood before him. And there was nothing he could do to stop him, even if he desired. The guard that had escorted the Pony in had situated themselves neatly along the stairs and rows in such a way as to be able to neutralize any perceived threats that could arise.

“And rule we did,” Celestia said. “Incidents beyond even my and my sister’s control led to the corruption that erased Hammer Strike from history, save for the certain moments where he chose to preserve the peace, rather than assume the throne. But even then, he knew when to execute his restraint.” She peered intently around the room. “And when to unleash it. You all saw a taste of that during the sessions involving discussion over restoring our armed forces, when the Unicorn Vital Spark was taken against his will and then retrieved. Know that his wrath was far worse in the Third Gryphon war and in the time before the Discordian era.” Her eyes narrowed dangerously. “I take no pleasure in teaching in such a manner. But I must warn you. If any of you dares to insult the stallion that raised me again, I assure you, I can offer a similar lesson.”

“And what of the third?” Lord Hurricane asked as he rested his forehooves on the surface before him to get a better view of the sight below. There was neither malice nor rebellion in his tone. If anything, there was a sense of intrigue.

Hammer Strike couldn’t help but smirk as Baleful Eclipse rippled into existence on his back. Taking hold of the weapon, he spun it briefly as he pulled it off his back before planting the blade into the ground at his other side. “All three sit before you. The weapons of my rule. I, of course, am fair in these dealings. Whoever believes themselves more worthy, come forth. And if you can pick up even one of them, I would concede my rule to whomever may succeed. I’ll even lift the field over your magic.”

There was no uproar this time, but the lifting of the pressure that had stifled their connections left them feeling as one who had lost his senses and suddenly had them restored. The sudden influx left many of them unsteady. All the same, the challenge had been put forth, the promise made.

Fel Jade was among the first to reach the floor. “I assume you’ll permit an appraisal?” the noble asked.

“Feel free.” Hammer Strike nodded.

Light flowed through Fel Jade’s horn as it passed over each of the artifacts, wrapping them in a magical aura in turn. A frown passed over her face as she analyzed each of the weapons in turn. The hammer and the sword were easy to distinguish for their natures and their connection to their master. From a magical perspective, they most definitely acknowledged Hammer Strike as their master. The third weapon, however, was … unusual. She detected no signs of any form of solar or lunar magics. Instead, there was something … else.

The size of the two larger weapons and the cracks they left behind as they were planted in or on the ground left little question as to their actual weight. That meant that of the three, the scythe would likely be the easiest weapon to seize. And yet, as Hammer Strike watched, she noticed what seemed to almost be a slightest twitch at the corners of his mouth.

Still, she had to try. She seized the shaft of the scythe and tugged. There was no movement. She raised the wooden piece, seeking to use leverage to try to work the scythe’s blade loose. The weapon didn’t budge. The air rang with the familiar hum of magic as she brought her will to bear on the stubborn weapon and sought to order it to move. Her face flushed as sweat beaded her brow. She grimaced. She grit her teeth. Her face slowly turned red from the sheer effort of the exertion. And still the scythe wouldn’t move.

“Here, let me make it ‘fair,’ as I assume someone will call out on it.” Hammer Strike pulled the greatsword out of the ground and laid it down lengthwise. He then did the same with the scythe.

Fel Jade glared determinedly at Hammer Strike, then crouched down to seize the scythe’s shaft again.Once more, the weapon wouldn’t budge. Not even a mote of dust shifted. There was no grinding, no backlash, just the grunts of effort and eventually a panting exhaustion.

“Anyone else?” Hammer Strike questioned.

What followed wasn’t really beyond expectation. Candidate after candidate sought to lay claim to the weapons, any of them. None would yield. In due course, the stream of would-be-challengers petered out. Finally, the room was filled with the heavy silence that was part chastised child and part inevitable surrender. To add insult to injury, Hammer Strike once again picked up each weapon without so much as breaking a sweat and easily replaced them as part of his garb, with sword and scythe on either side and the great warhammer laying sturdily on his back. One couldn’t tell whether it was a trick of the light or not, but the stone embedded in the great weapon seemed almost to flicker as it regained full contact with Hammer Strike.

“Now that you all have finished your attempts,” Hammer Strike said as he glanced over those gathered. “We can continue.” He turned his attention to the twin thrones After a moment, another stand rose behind the two. After it secured in place, a blue rift of embers appeared above and slowly descended toward the stand, revealing the very tops of a far larger throne that took fuller shape until the great structure that had once been in the throne room in New Unity now stood proudly in proclamation of Hammer Strike’s authority.

When the process completed, Hammer Strike finally turned and took a seat, followed by Celestia, who sat demurely on her own throne. “We have much to discuss, and plenty of ‘concerns’ that you all have will be dealt with.”

“And given that I no longer am presiding over this meeting, I will serve as speaker for the duration of this session,” Celestia said. “Now, then. Let us begin.”

---

The weather had originally been planned for a thunderstorm over Canterlot, but an emergency royal order had been sent out, and the storm was moved back to another day. The word had gone out. All non-essential businesses were to be shut down for three hours in the afternoon, and all Ponies capable of coming had been ordered to the Palace courtyard. A monumental announcement and proclamation was to be made. And given the fact that there wasn’t an invasion or other crisis, it seemed that this was to be one of the princess’ happier announcements.

The sun filtered through the heavens with golden rays that transformed the castle into a pulsing structure that glinted and flickered like veins of liquid gold while the stones sparkled and the many colors flashed brightly. One could almost claim that it had taken on a quality similar to the Crystal Empire. The square and courtyard were packed, and a stream of Ponies stretched as far as the eye could see from the castle clear down to the city below. For the purposes of this grand gathering, trained Unicorns projected a feed of the gathering for all the Ponies to see their princess on the balcony.

Celestia looked out over the crowd from out of sight in the great hall inside and smiled. “Well, Father, I’d say we’ve got more than enough here for the announcement. Are you ready to take over?”

“Let’s get things going.” Hammer Strike nodded.

“Yes. Then I can bring the recording back to Ys.” Luna nodded.

“Strange to think that we’ll be retiring so soon,” Celestia said with a playful smirk.

Hammer Strike gave a brief laugh. “As if I’d let you off that easy.”

“We’d be ashamed if you did. That, or we’d kill you because you’re a Changeling.”

“Ah, I trained you both well.”

The exuberant roar that rose from the crowd echoed and reverberated through the surrounding space, and the trio was quite certain the shout could be heard for miles in any direction. When the crowd finally died down, Celestia raised her voice and addressed her beloved subjects. “Citizens of Equestria, thank you for answering our summons on such short notice. Many of you are doubtless curious why we should make such a call when there is no apparent enemy or threat to face.

“I tell you, my beloved little Ponies, that the reason you have been summoned is because today is a day in which all of Equestria should rejoice. It will truly be among one of the most momentous days in our long and storied history. Long ago, this nation was founded on the principles of unity, harmony, and respect. These traits were embodied in six noble Ponies who sought to defend themselves against a threat that none could overcome on their own. And they succeeded. However, a lesser known fact is that the true binding power that led Equestria to peace laid in another Pony, one who ruled as king and raised my sister and I to be rulers in his place when he finally had to leave us.

“It is our distinct pleasure, that is to say Luna’s and mine, to present that king again. Many of you have heard of him. Many of you know of his many feats. Warrior, conqueror, juror, administrator, leader, and beloved friend and mentor. Now, from the shadows of history, we raise a feat far more ancient and much more deeply venerated. Ladies and gentlecolts, I present to you King Hammer Strike, the true founder of Equestria!”

The Crowd looked up at the balcony silently, a few muzzles hung open in shock. On a rooftop nearby, as Grif snapped a Gryphon’s neck and their bow clattered to the tiles below, he laughed at the reaction as silently as he could.

Hammer Strike sighed as he stepped forward into view. “It has been some time since I have done such a speech, but I will attempt to keep things straightforward. To clarify as to my appearance, I have no doubt you have questions. The versions of myself before were simply a fragment of my whole. To move forward from that, I decided it best for my return to finally occur. I am certain many of you have worries as to the future. But know that this revelation will not come with immediate drastic changes. My daughters will continue to hold their rank and administer things within their realms of control, as they have done faithfully these many years. However, I will slowly be adjusting things from here forward for the betterment of Equestria.

“Know that I care for the wellbeing of every subject of the kingdom, and aim to improve the quality of life as such. However, this does not mean I am blind to the disregard of law or corruption that takes place around us. It will be dealt with. I will not allow such to occur under my rule.” He sighed. “But, that will all come in time. Until then, just know that things will be moving forward, no matter what lies ahead.”

The crowd was silent for a few terse minutes before the sound of stomping could be heard somewhere in the group. Soon more and more hooves joined in until the thunder of stampeding hooves rumbled over the countryside with the raucous Equestrian applause.

Hammer Strike gave a small smile. “That will conclude my speech. I know many of you had to close your businesses temporarily for this, and so I have chosen to keep things short and to the point. You are all free to continue about your days.”

The crowd murmured among themselves as they turned aside from the announcement and slowly began to filter out of the castle grounds to return to their homes and businesses. Some few media Ponies did their best to evade detection as guards systematically rooted them out and herded them toward the exit. The time for interviews would have to come later, if at all.

Back inside the walls of the castle, the princesses beamed at their father. “Well, you’ve officially completed a bloodless coup, Father. How does it feel?” Celestia asked.

“About as one would expect.” Hammer Strike chuckled. “I’m sure Grif had some fun keeping things calm.”

“I’m sure he did. Still, they took it well.” Luna nodded.

“That part, I did find surprising, but it certainly isn’t something I’ll complain about.”

“Most successful coup d'etat in Equestrian history.” Luna laughed.

“And perhaps the only one,” Celestia noted.

“That you are aware of, sister.” Luna chuckled. “It was my job to know where the bodies were buried, after all.”

“Luna, I meant the only successful coup.”

“Fair enough.” Luna shrugged.

“Indeed.” Hammer Strike chuckled. “I have a few more tasks to handle in terms of starting my rule, one of which is going to be a diplomatic visit.”

“Where to?” Celestia asked curiously.

“The Crystal Empire.” Hammer Strike gave a small smile.

“Finally going to break the news to Shining Armor and Cadence?

“Right. I probably should do that, too.”

Comments

[notAperson]

Hahahahah! Yes! Finally! I have waiting for this for soooooooo long! And it is finally here! And it is glorious! Even more glorious than I imagined!

[Well Geboren]

Hail to the king baby, hail to the king!~

[Charedfirescale]

Long live the King!

[Sigmacipher]

Checkmate Blueballs, you lose.

[Pitviper0444]

Every new chapter, no matter what its contents, always makes me smile and always makes my day. Thank you for all the lovely things you've made all the moments of greif,love,anger, confusion it all feels like its not just a story but an actual telling in depth of these characters adventure. Keep up the astonishing work and once again.......stay frosty lol

[Booster Spice]

Hammer Strike to the Nobles.

Hello Boys. Im Baa-aaack.

In situations like this, I always assume that the artifacts in question that need to be moved, are actually gravity locked to the planets core, because otherwise the floor wouldnt have stopped them continuing their decent, or someone with a top end lift capacity, like Ursa Minor levitating Twilight or Starlight couldve done it?

[Fetch]

Fun fact: the high school of Bonnie Zacherle's hometown calls their sports teams the Mustangs.

Another fun fact: Bonnie's uncle, John Zacherle, was a television horror host.

[Pitviper0444]

Cant wait for the next chapter to drop lol