• Published 15th Apr 2014
  • 19,381 Views, 2,467 Comments

An Extended Holiday - Commander_Pensword



Adventure, Mayhem, Magic of unknown origins, and talking colorful Ponies. All being unrelated events have brought three friends together into the wildest holiday that anyone could imagine.

  • ...
69
 2,467
 19,381

PreviousChapters Next
84 - Good Evening, Commander!

Extended Holiday
Ch 84: Good Evening, Commander!
Act 11


Grif looked carefully over his new desk. On the outside it appeared to be made of some unidentifiable black material. It was in fact, compounded chitinous plates, but it would be hard for someone ignorant of this fact to know this considering how smoothly the joining plates had been buffed. The desk took up nearly a quarter of the room, being three and a half feet in height, seven feet in breadth, and four feet in width. “How’d you get it up here without the sentries seeing it?” Grif asked the other occupant of the room.

Me-Me stood looking pensively back at the Gryphon. “My children moved it piece by piece and assembled it here, mostly under cover of night. I think sectioning off the engineers’ hive mind was definitely for the best. The plans seemed very complex.”

Grif laughed. Over the past months and numerous long visits, Grif and Me-Me had been working very thoroughly on plans for different breeds of Changelings to fill different jobs. The engineers had been found to be ridiculously skilled at large complex projects due to the inner workings of the hive mind. “So walk me through this.”

“If you open the first drawer, you will see three embedded crystals: one blue, one green, and one red. Each will bring up the different types of communication crystals we’ve worked into the spell matrix.” Me-Me tapped the blue crystal with her hoof, causing eight slots to open simultaneously. From these slots, eight crystal lenses rose, each with a different symbol beneath them to tell Grif who was on the other end. Me-Me tapped the green crystal next, and the blue lenses descended to be replaced by three larger green crystal lenses. “These are the hive crystals we managed to create from adapting the communication crystals you acquired for us from the Crystal Empire. The brain trust is a little wordy about what they do, but as I understand it, they will allow you to communicate with our hive mind without needing a direct connection.”

“And the red?” Grif asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Releases a high intensity acid that will render all the internal workings to sludge in eight seconds. You did request some form of security after all.”

“Good. And how are our other preparations going?”

“The special ‘lings we worked on finished incubation and training while you were gone. They will be arriving at their branches within the next week. We have also deployed ‘lings to the other areas you requested with six drones to a soldier and enough crystallized love to ration for a month. I admit I’m still a little shocked you and I are doing this. It seems too close to what Mother would have done.”

“It’s not infiltration, Me-Me. Just protection. We’ll show Equestria what you’re worth, even if it has to be a Pony at a time. Is there anything else I should know?”

“Not at present. I’ll keep you informed when I get back to the hive.”

Grif nodded as he moved over to Me-Me and gave her a hug. When the two separated, the Changeling queen left. Words were unnecessary. A plan had just been set in motion for the betterment of both species.


Shawn sighed to himself as he scratched his chin. Muttering about shaving as he continued drawing some design that came to mind for him. He did his best to make it plausible. He sighed again as he heard a familiar chirp from his side. Renatti stood on his shoulder looking to the design before shaking his head. “Yeah, I know. I need to figure out a proper mechanism for the chest piece. Other than that, this could be an interesting design for armor.”

The phoenix casually looked over the design with emotional detachment before pecking the pauldron joints and shaking his head.

“The pauldrons are fine, just different from what everyone makes. The chestplate is also different, considering it’s more adjustable than ordinary plates to keep with more flexible users.”

Renati rolled his eyes and shrugged as if to say let him figure it out for himself.

“I know you’ve seen plenty of sets of armor, but this isn’t like any design I’ve seen on Equis. I know you’re trying to tell me to use the same mechanism as the pauldrons, but the chest piece is going to use interlocking plates with central joints, while the pauldrons use segmented plates combined on an overall frame,” he said, pointing to different parts as he mentioned them.

A timid knock sounded at the door. “Shawn? Can I come in?”

“Go for it. Not working on much,” he replied, holding up a chunk of coal for Renati to eat.

Conor stepped casually in. “I felt like I should stop by, seeing as, well, you know.”

“No I don’t. Mind explaining? I’ve been pretty busy.”

“Well there’s not that much time left for us to just hang out. I wanted to make some memories that didn’t involve saving the world every other day. Is … is that okay?”

“Conor, you’re acting like I wouldn’t want to hang out and do stuff with you. I know I’m typically busy, but I can always take time to have conversations or do stuff.”

“Sorry. I guess I’m just … edgy lately. I’ve had a lot on my mind and a lot more to think about.”

“Any of it you want to talk about?”

“Don’t know. It’s mostly to do with the whole magic thing. It’s so different than I thought it would be. People here use it just like we do a knife or a gun back home. It’s … strange for me.”

Shawn laughed for a moment. “If that’s what you’re worried about, I have good news for you. I just discovered something earlier, and you’ll be the first to hear it.”

“Yeah?”

“Thaumaturgy isn’t magic,” Shawn said simply as he leaned back into his chair.

“... How did Renati manage to hold onto you while you did that?”

“By shifting himself as I leaned.”

“Weird. It doesn’t look like he moved.” Conor shrugged. “So if thaumaturgy isn’t magic, then what is it? Didn’t you guys say that Celestia called thaumaturgy a magical field?”

“She explained it as a field of energy, which is what it is. Thaumaturgy is control over a field of energy that exists as all matter around us. They are all different frequencies to make up the basic structure and materials around us. It’s why I get such a backlash when I try to use it like magic; I’ve been combining it together from the start by thought.”

“So you’ve been using it the wrong way basically?”

“We all have. Didn’t help that this was explained later in the book,” Shawn muttered as he pulled said book out from his coat for a moment before putting it back in. “With this knowledge I think I can do a lot more now. That’s why it felt so odd using it whenever I tried to alter something or view the magic around us. You haven’t really done much with it, and you still shouldn’t, but it’s still interesting knowledge to know.”

“So pretty much it literally gives you the power to freely manipulate matter and it acts as a booster for magic casters?

“In a way, yes on the question of messing with matter. As for the booster to magic, definitely yes.”

“But they can’t be combined easily? It just sort of acts on its own for those things?”

“To make a fire with thaumic power, to put it into numbers, would take five units of power. To make the same thing with magic would take over ten. The field around us is trying to replicate the field of magic in our environment from what we’ve seen.”

“And that’s how it manages to double your magic potential and/or halve the cost?”

“Yes. Maybe even more past that.”

“So what happens if we stop thinking of it as magic, then?”

“Less danger, less backlash, and be able to do a lot more for a lot longer.”

“Well that’s good to know, even if I’ll never use it.”

“You’ve been using it. Or in a way, it’s been working for you.”

“I mean actively. You told me not to, so I haven’t tried.”

“Honestly…” Shawn paused as he hummed for a moment. “You can use it a bit. Not too much, but enough to have some fun while you’re around.”

“From what I’ve seen, thaumaturgy isn’t exactly something you should have some fun with. Isn’t there the whole risk of blowing yourself up or worse? You seemed to make some pretty emphatic notes on that.”

“It can be fun if you mess with it correctly. The chance of self harm is actually decreased with this knowledge because the primary form of backlash from it was magical backlash.”

“You know, you never told me what my aspects were. I remember you taking some from me, but that’s about it.”

“Peridito, and Ordo. Perditio from Discord, no doubt, but Ordo… That came from your friend who you’re hiding from me.”

“I was wondering when you’d bring that up.”

“I was wondering if you’d ever tell me. Grif and Pensword can’t make that strong of a shard of order. The aspect is hard to form and create, even by transfusion.”

“I don’t even know how much I’d actually be able to say before I’m blocked, honestly.”

“I saw that strand on you.” Shawn’s eyes burst with blue fire. “Still can, even. But you know, I can extract it…”

“I’d prefer if you didn’t. It’s not posing a threat. It’s just not quite time for you to learn everything yet. She says you have to wait a while longer.”

“Conor, as much as I want to just go straight to them–” his eyes trailed something from Conor’s neck to the floor. “–I’ll give you that request, but I’d prefer a better reason next time.”

“Let’s just say she’s directly linked to the order that’s held in Equestria.”

“I meant a better reason to not go find them immediately.”

“Her,” Conor corrected casually.

Shawn returned it with a flat stare, which Renati seemed to mimic as well.

“What? Just because I can’t say everything doesn’t mean I can’t say some things.”

Shawn shook his head as he sat up. “Anything else you want to talk about?”

“Theories for why the Everfree is normal while everywhere else is controlled?”

“Quite the opposite, actually. Magic here is drastically different from most of Equis, which is the cause for the unstable weather.”

“... Just how long were you researching all of this?”

“Long enough. Do you know how long I’ve been here?”

“Nearly half a century?”

“Pretty much, and that time is only going to grow. My thaumic field is keeping my body at a specific state, from what the book explains at least, which means I’m going to age slower than I should. Grif should as well, but Pensword’s field is getting weaker and weaker each day he doesn’t use it. Doesn’t help that I delayed it even further by using a golem to hold myself from aging for over thirty years.”

“So are you just going to let Pensword’s field die, then?”

“I’ve tried to get him to use it more, but he doesn’t. But I do know one thing that will get him to use it more… Even if I don’t like what it will do to him.”

“Is it dangerous?”

“It’s better than letting it kill him, but he isn’t going to like the effects of it...”


Pensword walked the ramparts of the Castle as he casually listened to the sounds of construction and activity around him. He smiled. Today the military would be returning, and the camp would once again become active. He looked forward to that. He paused as he looked over the forest and once again remembered the old Unity. The ghosts of buildings and squares rose up from the gnarled and wild trees of the forest. He missed those old days, but he knew in time the city would be great again. Then he would be able to make new memories. He sighed happily and let the moment wash over him.

“Good evening, Sir,” a familiar voice spoke as a Unicorn approached from his left.

“Good Evening, Animal Control,” Pensword answered. “How are you doing? I hope you are getting used to the officer rank.”

“I’m trying, Sir. I know I’m early, but I was vacationing relatively nearby. Ponyville is a nice town when it’s not being torn apart.” She laughed.

“So I have been told. Sadly I cannot seem to visit on a quiet day,” Pensword replied with a laugh. “I am guessing you are planning to stay in the area.” He frowned. “Are you ... at all regretting coming forward in time?”

“You aren't the only one who lost everything, Sir,” Animal said with a sigh. “You just found out about it sooner.”

“What happened?” Pensword asked as he sat down, patting the stone next to him with a hoof. “Would you like to talk about it? Maybe need to go hunt down some emblems?” he asked seriously. His expression softened. “Need anything at all?”

She sat down slowly beside him. “Some things you can’t get the emblem of, Sir. I came from a small town inside the Whitetail Woods. The year after I left was a dry year. There was a thunderstorm that started a fire. The Pegasi lost control, and by the time the next morning rolled around, it was all gone. … I got the message on the battlefield the week after deployment.”

Pensword nodded. “I am sorry to hear that.” The pair sat quietly for a time, allowing the silence to reign long enough to see the sun rising before Pensword spoke again. “Do you have plans for today? Also, did Clover tap you for teaching military magic yet? If not, you should volunteer. We need to get these Unicorns up to snuff, to our standard. Not the standard that the nobility seems to be so fond of.”

“Clover approached me about it. I want to get everything stabilized first before I consider it, though. With everything as it is, our paperwork is backed up, and I need to get the new payroll to Hammer Strike by the end of the week. When I’ve gotten our administration cleaned up, then I’ll work on helping to teach.”

“Sounds good. Mind you, when our military grows, do not be surprised if you are in charge of entire supply battalions.” Pensword chuckled. “It’s rare to find a Pony who can get supplies from the Breezies.”

Animal Control laughed. “So you and Foxy, huh? Glad she finally said something.”

“Let me guess, you and the others were betting how long it would take for her to confess her feelings to me?” He chuckled. “Speaking of Fox Feather, the wedding still hasn’t happened yet. She didn’t want you all to miss it.”

“Sir, you should know by now.” Animal control got to her hooves and moved to leave. “A sure thing is not a bet.” She levitated a healthy bag of bits from her saddlebag and winked at him before leaving.

Hearing those words sent yet another wave of nostalgia through him as the blonde mane and white face of Supreme Sunrise flashed across his memory. He missed her. “I hope you are happy, Surprise, and you… are you really related to Pinkie Pie? And that other Surprise in the Wonderbolts?” he asked the wind, not expecting an answer as he got up.

He turned, only to start as he saw the commandante on the grounds, skipping of all things. He blinked in surprise only to see that Pinkie Pie had taken her place, hopping along in her usual style as she chit chatted to one of the stone workers about something. She and the worker turned around the corner with a wheelbarrow. When the stone worker walked back into view with more mortar to set, Pinkie Pie was no longer with her. Pensword shook his head incredulously. “Well, I guess I got my answer.”


Grif warbled to himself as he hiked the stretch from the forest towards the fortress. Several dead rabbits waiting to be cleaned had been slung across his back. There’s nothing like a successful hunt to put a spring in a Gryphon’s steps. He’d nearly reached the bridge when he caught the sound of movement nearby. Cautiously, he turned towards the sound, ready for anything to emerge from the forest. What came out nearly caused his more human traits to take over and squeal. Grif promptly stifled said squeal

A bright flash of red and white silk heralded the arrival of the mysterious strangers. Stepping forward two at a time, a series of standard bearers held their pinions high beneath the curved blade of the naginata. Each of the creatures in the column maintained a dignified silence. Their simple white kimonos clung tightly to their bodies to prevent the foliage and underbrush from catching as they passed through the forest while still giving the impression of benevolence and peace. Their red fur stood out against the white as they continued their regimented march. Behind the standard bearers, four more creatures strode out with their bare paws. Their arms hung loosely at their sides, and each held their own unique weapon tied to their waist. One held a long curved sheath that clearly indicated a katana. Two held a medium and a short sword bound on either side. The last was unarmed, at least with any material weapons. A black belt had been tied around his waist, and he stood a little taller than his fellows as he scanned the surroundings warily. His eyes immediately locked onto Grif. Behind them, a tall cone-like cap with two white cloth lines and two red lines peeked above the escort. Behind this unseen figure, the mirror image of the escort took up the rear. As one, they halted, red tails swishing patiently.

The first standard bearer, a somewhat smaller fox with one tail stepped forward. His large, cone-like ears indicated he was of Fennec descent, and his eyes were bright and calculating, albeit respectful as he gave a brief bow. “Excuse me, honored Gryphon. We are on a journey in search of an old friend of our master. Please, tell me, are we on the proper path to reach Unity?” His voice, while a little on the thin and dry side, was smooth and steady, filled with patience.

Grif stood there for a minute, half of his mind perplexed at how a party from an isolationist nation made it all the way here undetected, the other half freaking out because Kitsunes where right in front of him. A gust of wind blasted the Gryphon with the same force as a smack to the face, bringing him to his senses. Carefully, he cleared his throat and idly straightened his armor. “Yes. New Unity is just across that bridge, actually. I was just headed back from my hunt. If you’d like, I can take you there.”

“You do us a great service. We thank you, Avatar of Winds.”

“If I may ask,” Grif said, lowering his beak in respect to the elder he was certain lay behind the guard. “Your people don’t tend to travel much, and they go to great lengths not to be seen when they do. How is it that you made it to Unity, literally the center of the country, in silence so effortlessly?”

A mischievous smile crept across the messenger’s face. “We have our ways, Avatar, as we are certain you have yours.” A playful light twinkled in his eyes as he looked to the Gryphon. “You may call me Ping. Everyone else does.” He chuckled as he signaled the column to advance.

“And I am Grif. All who come in peace are welcome in New Unity,” Grif said as he walked beside the young fox. “I should warn you, though, my goddaughter may attempt to ambush you.”

“So long as she is gentle, we can handle ourselves. Should she seek to use anything life threatening, however …” The Kitsune shrugged amiably.

“That depends if your people consider cuteness in amounts of lethality.” Grif laughed as the gates to Unity began to loom on the horizon. “Charge! If the gate’s not open by the time I get there, I’m burning the rum!” Grif shouted at the top of his lungs. The effect was notable as the gates immediately began to creak open.

“Ach, Grif, ya guttersnipe! How could ya threaten ta burn our best brew?” Demolition Charge demanded as the party passed in under the doors. “An’ who’re the newbies? Yer not cowtowin’ to some fancy hoity toity nobles, are ye?” He spat over the wall behind him.

“These are guests of Hammer Strike. That’s all you need to know!” Grif called back as he led the party through the gate. He looked apologetically behind. “I’m sorry about that. Some of our men are less formal about visitors.”

He was met by a merry chuckle. “I’ve read a thing or two about the Demolition family. They’re a very distinguished branch in your country, or so I’ve read, singlehandedly working anywhere from twenty to a hundred jobs at a time. How on the good earth did you manage to get two of them under the same roof?”

“They paid us, that’s how!” Grenado shouted in his brogue. “Oy, Grif! Ya owe us another twenty kegs now. Be ready ta pay us next month!”

“Grenado, shut up,” Grif said plainly before turning to face a patch of thin air. “Espio, go get Pensword. Tell him to meet me outside Hammer Strike’s office. And don’t pretend you're not there.” There was a moment of silence followed by a grumbling as Espionage dropped the camouflage spell and stalked off, his rouge suit still coming back into focus. “Heavy Set, Heavy Duty, walk side by side in front of us so no one gets in our way.” The two massive stallions, who had been sitting by the gate wall enjoying a couple of sandwiches, gulped down their food and proceeded as ordered. “They’re rough around the edges, but they get the job done,” he said to Ping as they walked.

From the rooftops a flicker of motion and the whistle of wind heralded the suction cup bolt before it found its mark on one of the guards’ arms. Said guard promptly pulled it out and placed it in a pocket. Grif had a feeling the dart was meant for something a little more obvious, namely the tall hat of the as yet faceless delegate, which meant one thing. Moon River had a goal for the next hour before she got bored.

“You needn’t fear. We know how to handle such things, and children are most precious in the eyes of our race. After all, children are the future. They are the weavers of history.” Ping chuckled and shook his head as a second bolt fired. This time, one of the weaponless guards leapt into the air and snatched it in his hand mid-flight before returning to the same fluid pace.

“Shouldn’t have done that,” Grif said under his breath. “Now you’ve given her a challenge.”

In her hidden corner, Moon River smirked mischievously as she fitted another dart to her crossbow.

“Then we’ll make it a game. We do rather enjoy those, Grif. But I’m sure you already knew this,” Ping said, winking playfully.

“How could I? I’ve never met a Kitsune before, and so little is known about your people.” Grif played the ignorant card.

Ping laughed. “ Come now, Grif. We know a great deal about history, including recent events.”

“If you’re referring to Taze, the visitor from the other world, I’m afraid he’s not said much on his home or the creatures thereabout, and he hasn’t returned from his vacation overseas, I am afraid.”

“And yet he is fighting to cross the waves in the sea of your eyes,” Ping said cryptically. He winked as they passed through another corridor.

“You seem to be well informed. Tell me, Ping, do you know the origin of the name you give me? It was a name used to hide a certain secret.” Grif leaned in, his voice a whisper. “I may not know a lot about your race, but I’ve seen enough people with something to hide to know how they carry themselves. You keep trying to unearth my secrets, and I might just have to unearth a few of yours. Is that clear?”

“As crystal.” Ping continued to press forward, though his smile didn't waver. “You do realize I will still remain curious, however, yes?”

"You Kitsunes are related to foxes. Foxes have feline tendencies, so when I say curiosity killed the cat, please make of it what you will. Some knowledge even you aren't ready for.”

“I like you, friend. Or at least, I hope that I may call you such.” Ping laughed as they reached the immense double doors.

“Hammer Strike, you know how I was only supposed to disturb you if Chrysalis attacked, the Heavies got drunk, or a random political party of a different species showed up?” Grif called through the door. “One of those things happened!”

“The heavies got drunk?” Hammer called out.

“No.”

A tired sigh carried through the wood. “Which political party is it this time?”

“You may not believe me. We’ve got Kitsunes.”

There was a long pause. “Didn’t expect that one. I was going to guess Yaks. Come on in.”

As the group entered the room, Pensword rounded the corner and he blinked in surprise. “Okay, this is new,” he muttered. “What brought them out of isolation? It is never a good sign when they show up. I will have words with Celestia.” His ear twitched as he caught a familiar laugh. A suction bolt was sticking squarely between one of the guards’ shoulder blades, right where it would be hardest to reach.

“Pensword, you’d best come in for this meeting,” Grif said as he pushed the double doors open. “Seeing as you’re Equestria's only real military representative at the moment.”

“I really want that changed soon,” he muttered grumpily. “The Grand Galloping Galla cannot come soon enough for me.”

“And so the trio of legends is complete,” an older, dryer voice said. The guards parted to reveal a taller, albeit slimmer Kitsune garbed in a simple set of robes. The light blue inner lining complimented the white of his sleeves. His tall hat fit perfectly over his white fringed red furry face. Two sharp ears perked on either side of the ceremonial cap, holding it in place while five furry tails swished behind him. “Lord Hammer Strike, my name is Sai. It is an honor to make your acquaintance.” He bowed his head.

“A pleasure. And please, just Hammer Strike. What brings you so far out here?”

“We come on the behalf of our elder. When word reached his ears that you had returned to Equestria in a time of relative peace, he immediately expressed an intense desire to travel here and meet with you.”

“But from the sounds of things, he could not.”

“He would have, but there are many who would seek to take him and his knowledge for their own. He is one of the oldest among us, and while he is far from frail, we would rather he remain as safe as possible. I am his secretary, though I also dabble in the occasional game of Go.” Sai smiled as he pulled out a simple folding fan and waved it over his face. “We managed to convince him to wait until we sent a delegation to you before he tried to come himself. He agreed, albeit reluctantly, but only on the grounds that–” he swallowed “–that we extend you an honor few have ever received.”

“I will require a few others with me.”

“Lord Hammer Strike, it’s hard enough to bring even just one outsider into our nation, let alone its heart. What you’re suggesting is–”

“Sai, I’ll be honest. I’ve been wanting to test out a few things, and the primary one I want to test just can’t be done by myself,” Hammer Strike started. “I’ll even be able to get us there faster than conventional airship travel, and we need to make this trip to there fast because I have to lead Unity. So like it or not, we’re bringing a few more trusty individuals.”

“Don’t forget Rarity. She’ll kill you in the most fabulous way possible if you don’t take her on this one,” Grif said

“Wouldn’t dream of it.” Hammer Strike redirected his gaze to Sai. “So do we have an understanding?”

Sai sighed. “Master Haku warned me that there might be some … stipulations. Just how large of a party will you require, Hammer Strike?”

“Well, let’s see.” He hummed for a moment. “Six.”

“... That is surprisingly low. Master Haku estimated somewhere around a hundred. How long will it take for you and your friends to prepare?”

“Perhaps a week.”

“Until then we’ll make sure you all have a place to sleep,” Grif said. “Just don’t expect something lavish. We’re a bit tight on space at the moment.”

“We are used to travel on the road, Avatar. We will take whatever accommodations you deem fit humbly and thankfully.”


Grif entered Carousel Boutique at a slow measured pace. He had drawn the short straw, and as such was given the job of informing Rarity of the impending trip. “Rarity, are you here?” he called.

“Well, of course I’m here, Grif. What can I do for you?” Rarity asked as she exited the back room and returned her spools of thread to their shelves. She levitated her measuring tape back into its drawer and turned to face the Gryphon.

“You wanted this, so get packed up and be ready to explore uncharted lands in a week. We just got an invitation from the Kitsunes to visit them in their homeland. And let me make this clear, because we all know your packing skills. Two regular sized suitcases, Rarity, and not one handbag more. Is that clear?”

“But Grif, what am I going to do with all my sketching materials?” Her eyes were wide with wonder. “This is a once in a lifetime … no, not even a lifetime opportunity. Do you have any idea what styles I could create, what cultural influences I could add to my designs? Why, I could create a whole new line of fashion completely unique to my brand alone.” Her eyes were sparkling with wonder as she began to daydream.

“Look at it this way, Rarity. Their own party approached us with very little. From what we could tell, it seems likely their culture is very minimalist. Bring a lot of luggage and you may seem ignorant to them. Do you like talking shop with someone who’s ignorant?”

Rarity pouted. “Ooh, I hate it when you’re right!” She immediately proceeded to bite one of her forehooves. “I’ll have to be very selective in what I wear. And besides that, I’ll need room for souvenirs. And the jewelry will have to go, too, I suppose.” She sighed. “Why don’t you come back for me later, darling? Something tells me I’m going to be busy the next few days.”

“Make sure to bring your sword,” Grif said as he turned to the door. “They’ll respect you more for it.” He left without another word


Pensword sat behind his desk down in the closet on the first floor. At least it was an improvement compared to the space he’d had to occupy before. He could hardly wait for the ground to be broken on the barracks remodeling next month. He idly shuffled through sheafs of newspapers and other reports, looking for signs of any mischief the troops may have had over the holiday. So far he could feel nothing but pride for their conduct. The Manehattan Times had been especially enlightening. He gave a cursory nod as Preston entered to remove the pile of documents from the outbox. As an added service he also took the newspaper before departing. Pensword was glad of the aid. Hopefully in the coming weeks they would be able to move these military records someplace other than the old siege supply sub basements. He rubbed his temples with his wings. Not only would he have to take care of the nightmare of paperwork for these forms with just the three units they had trained here, but he would have to locate all of the old military paperwork from the last war. His expression darkened. If the records from a thousand years ago were destroyed, he would be furious, and not even his princess or high chieftess would be able to stem his wrath.

“Excuse me, mon capitan.” Kahn knocked softly on the door.

“Yes, Kahn?” Pensword asked as he looked up from yet another report. “What is it?” He frowned. “Is there a problem with integration of the Demon Slayers?”

“Not at the moment, Sir. One of the visitors to the fortress has requested some of your time.”

“Oh?” Pensword closed the file and turned around, placing it into one of the cabinet drawers behind him. Acting swiftly, he lit up a lamp and laid it on the table to help brighten the room. “Well, send him in.”

“Oui. As you wish.” Kahn nodded before leaving the room. His muffled voice was heard for a second outside the door before Pensword's guest made his way into the the makeshift office.

“You are the Pensword of legend, yes? The one to singlehandedly take the Gryphon Fort Triumph without a single casualty?”

“That is correct,” Pensword answered with a nod, hiding his confusion. “How may I help you, Ping?” He stood cautiously.

“Our people are foremost scholars and record keepers. Our task is to safeguard the history and cultures of the world so that they are forever preserved for future generations. If you would not mind, we would respectfully ask to add your story to our archives as seen through your own eyes.” Ping pulled out a scroll and placed it respectfully on the table. “If you are interested in accepting this proposal, you need simply produce the scroll within our archives and we will make the necessary arrangements. My master asked that I inform you the decision is completely up to you and will in no way impact relations between our peoples.”

“... I am willing to pursue this proposal of yours. On one condition,” Pensword said. “You must interview the remaining members of what was once the Gryphon Slayers. They served at my side along with Lunar Fang. Their stories are just as important as mine. Unless they are recorded with my own, I will not consent.”

“We were not aware that you had returned with further witnesses of the war, other than your mate, of course. The history of Equis will be made all the richer for their contributions. Had I the authority, I would immediately say yes. As it is, I must withdraw and inform Master Sai of your stipulations. I am quite certain that he will agree most heartily.” Ping bowed deeply. “Until next we meet, Pensword Sama. May the knowledge of the past guide you to a better future,” he said, giving a lesser bow before departing the office.

Pensword stood and nodded his head. “Till then.” He cocked his head, confused as the door shut. “... What does sama mean?”


“So this is a new record for us,” Grif said. “Not even back a week and there’s another trip around the corner. You think maybe we’ll get winter off?” It was several hours later, and Pensword, Vital, and Grif were chatting in the armory trying to fit Vital Spark with some appropriate armor.

“I still don’t get why you don’t just let me keep using my leather armor. It’s already tailored to fit and it transitions easily between forms,” Vital Spark said as yet another shiny breastplate was placed against his barrel.

“Okay, first off, the spell that we use to shift forms adjusts clothing and armor accordingly,” Grif said. “Secondly, we’re about to enter a territory where we haven’t got the slightest clue what we'll be facing should we be attacked,” Grif said.

“Also, it is a form of prestige and pecking order on the style and design. We want and need to fit the image of the bigger than life.” Pensword smiled. “Besides, I have at least three sets. I have my training armor, my dress/ceremonial armor, and the full on combat war armor. While all of them can survive a war, each one serves its own unique purpose.” He nodded to Grif. “Besides, better safe than sorry.”

“Okay, try lifting something with your horn,” Grif said as he helped Vital with the pauldrons and greaves. “Let’s see if the current enchantments hinder you at all.”

“Alright. What did you have in mind, something from the weapons rack?”

“Anything at all, really,” Grif said. “We just need to test to make sure it’s not fighting against you”

“... Okay. Still don’t get why armor would do that, though.” Closing his eyes, Vital Spark concentrated as best he could. His horn ignited into a light blue that surrounded one of the pole staves. Using the telekinesis he’d learned, he spun it in the air and performed a few aerial strokes. “Is that okay?”

“Good. Looks like the protective enchantments realize they’re working with your magic.” Grif nodded. “How’s the weight? Move around a little. Test the articulation.”

Vital huffed slightly as the heavy metal clattered along with him. The joints creaked and protested, but he managed at least a somewhat brief waddle. “It’s sort of heavy …”

“Hmm. Too heavy or just strange heavy?” Grif ran his talons along the joints, making mental notes of where the plates seemed to be chafing one another.

“... I don’t know. I’ve never worn heavy armor before. It feels a bit bulky, and … well, kind of heavy.” He smiled sheepishly. “I think I might need something a little lighter.” As if to prove his point, he placed his forehoof on a stray oil rag that had been left on the ground. In a matter of moments he was a clattering heap of metal and buckles struggling to get back to his hooves again. “Eeyup, definitely too heavy,” he groaned through the visor, which had clanked shut over his muzzle.

“Okay, I’ll ask Hammer Strike if he’s got something prepared in a lighter material. Maybe we should go for chain mail, rather than plating anyway. Unless, of course, you’d like for me to give you to Rarity. I’m sure she has what you need.” Grif smiled mischievously. “You’d just need to sit for a fitting.”

“Grif, I just went through one recently. I’d rather not face another,” Vital groaned as he took the outstretched talons and got to his hooves. “Besides, I don’t think Rarity specializes in metalworking, though her fashion sense is impeccable.”

“That may be true, but we still have to show that Equestria is not going to be inferior to the Kitsunes. I get enough problems with the Gryphons. It is going to be us putting our best military hoof forward. Also, do not back down if something happens. Do not lose face. I do not want another war on my hooves,” Pensword said.

Grif was about to reply when the armory’s door burst open quite suddenly. The all-too-familiar figures of The Doctor and Derpy burst into the room. “Doctor, why are we running?” Derpy asked.

“Not now, Derpy. We need to sort this out before anyone realizes what happen–” It was then the doctor noticed the three figures in the room. “And you're all here.”

Grif reared onto his paws, crossing his arms expectantly as he raised an eyebrow. “Doctor, Derpy, what did you do?”

“Doctor, Miss Hooves, a pleasure to see you both again, but please tell me we are not facing some alien invasion, because I really do not want to have to order an evacuation of New Unity, nor do I suspect you would let me charge this threat with my wing blades.”

Derpy looked at them with a confused expression before she looked back at The Doctor. “Doctor, who are these people?”

Grif face taloned.

Vital Spark levitated his helmet off his head, then he noticed a startlingly familiar device beeping in the Earth Pony’s hooves. “Doctor … please don’t tell me you’re tracking an anomaly in the fabric of space and time.”

The Doctor paused as he looked to Vital Spark. “What? How? No, well not really,” he paused. “Maybe ... well, yeah, but it isn’t too dangerous. If it was it would be beeping and flashing red.” The machine started to do so. “And there would be a whirring sound.” He paused and looked at the machine. “Yeah… we might need to be moving quickly.”

Derpy looked to The Doctor with a disappointed look on her muzzle. “Doctor, what’s happening? And who are these people? Where are we? You said we were only going to Marven Six to see the triple sunset.”

“Okay, Doctor, I’m going to ask this now. Are you tracking something that, if in the wrong hands, could fracture space and time?” Grif asked

“Well, to be perfectly honest, the amount of times I’m not preventing a fracture in space and time are surprisingly few.”

Grif was not amused. “What is it, what does it do, and what happens if somebody touches it?”

“... Yes,” he said. “Oh, look, dinging. It’s dinging! This way, Derpy. Allons y!” And with that, The Doctor raced out the door and off down the corridor.

“... Knowing you three and how messed up space and time is for you, shouldn’t we check on Hammer Strike before he gets sucked through time again? Vital Spark asked.

Grif and Pensword cursed simultaneously in their respective native tongues before racing down the halls and leaving Vital Spark behind.

“... Well that’s not very nice,” Vital said as he levitated his armor off and placed it on the storage racks before running as fast as his hooves would carry him.


Hammer Strike sighed to himself as he read through a few more documents that he needed to have done before their trip. His ear twitched as a faint noise reached them.

“Come in,” he called out.

“Good evening, Hammer Strike Sama.” The elder Kitsune entered the room with a bow. “I hope I am not interrupting anything?”

“Nothing that I won’t have done by the time we set off.” Hammer set down the paper. “What brings you here, Sai?”

“I was hoping that I might get some time to talk with you personally. Master Haku speaks very highly of your time together.”

“Hopefully nothing ridiculous.”

“He was very clear that you are not the ridiculous type. He also asked me to inform you that, sadly, masters Kurama and Gakushu passed away within the last ten years.”

Hammer Strike sighed. “Natural causes?”

“Master Kurama died in his sleep. Master Gakushu, I am afraid, drowned when he dove to save a cub from rapids.”

“I was hoping to see them once more, but fate had other ideas, it seems...”

“They spoke very highly of you. It is so rare for our kind to encounter someone who ages slower than we do. I must admit, I didn’t believe it when I heard it.”

“As mentioned, fate sometimes has wonderful ideas, and sometimes I question who I’ll outlive and how I’ll die.”

“I am sure he who has punched the Shinigami does not fear his end.” Sai smiled at him. “He only seeks to make the largest mark on the way out.”

Hammer gave a light chuckle. “What I am fearful of is the outcome of my death.”

“A reasonable thing to fear.” Sai nodded. “If you will excuse me, I believe I should see about making sure everyone is settled for tonight. Thank you, Hammer Strike Sama. This conversation has been very enlightening.” He bowed his head respectfully before leaving the room.

After a moment Hammer Strike sighed to himself. “Quite odd. Normally I meet them before they meet me.”

The sound of something rolling followed immediately by the sound of metal striking stone broke Hammer Strike out of his musing. On the ground was what looked to be a small bracer with a few wires and panels on it. Hammer Strike squinted at the bracer before looking towards the door. “Must have left it…” he muttered as he stepped around his desk and grabbed the object.

Everything flashed to white, and he found himself in a haze. A thick fog surrounded him as snow fell around him. He groaned as he brought himself up to his hooves. He shook his head, clearing the snow out of his mane before shuddering at the strong feeling of cold that washed over him.

Red flags flew through his mind as he felt the cold seep into his body for the first time in well over forty years. He tried to flare his power, only for a short burst of blue and gold magic to come from his hooves. His brows lowered as he tried to figure out what was going on. The power felt familiar, and yet he couldn’t place it with his mind being as foggy as it was.

“S-stay back!” The voice was far off, but Hammer Strike still managed to pick out two factors. First, the voice’s owner was young. Second, whoever owned that voice was clearly in distress. In an instant his woozy mind was forgotten as Hammer Strike dashed for the sound.


“Something is very wrong,” Grif said as they reached Hammer Strike’s office, having yet to open the door.

“Guys, wait up!” Vital Spark yelled from down the hall as he galloped pell mell to reach them. He had left the armor behind at the armory. It only would have hindered his movements.

“You three need to leave now,” The Doctor said as he ran his device up and down the doorway. “You’re not even supposed to be here right now. If my future self were to find me here, it would be positively disastrous for the timeline. It’s bad enough that you lot have seen me.”

“Doctor...” Grif turned to him, rearing up to his full height. The strange Earth Pony suddenly found himself staring up into the face of a severely angry Gryphon. “You’ve managed to put a friend of mine in danger. If you try to get rid of us again, I will smack you so hard, you'll regenerate, and I don’t even care if that breaks time. Am I clear?”

I’ve put your friend in danger? I’m not the bloody one who made the stupid thing. It’s your damned secret serviceman. I swear, when I get my hooves on that Jack Harness …”

Pensword proceeded to get between the pair. “Uh, question. With how much Hammer Strike goes back and forth, maybe this is one of his fixed trips? After all, we do have a courtyard of Kitsune delegates at the moment, and we do seem to always go back in time to create the stable reason why a delegation would seek us out.” Pensword looked at the unified blank stares from the gathered Ponies. “What? It just seems like a common thought that it was bound to happen. Also, for the record, all of us will end up becoming good friends in your future timelines.” He sighed. “I think I will create a UNIT for this kind of stuff.”

Grif looked to the door, approached experimentally, and made as if to knock. Before his talons even made contact, he growled. “He’s not in there,” he said as he opened the door.

“That is what I thought. The place sounded too quiet,” Pensword said. “So, Doctor, what is the plan of action? After all, I would rather not have Hammer Strike deal with whatever it is you’re upset about on his own. So does that mean a TARDIS rescue mission?”

“It means I will be going on a TARDIS rescue mission. You lot get to stay here. That Jack is doubtless to be somewhere hereabouts. He’s been trying to get that band back just as much as I’ve been trying to keep him from it. Keep an eye out for him. I’ll have Hammer Strike back as quick as you can say Sweet Celestia.”

“Doctor, if you try to push us away from this one more time, I swear I’ll get Dinky to help me,” Grif said, “and I think you know how good she is. Don’t make me call the Muffin Mare.”

“Doctor, who’s Dinky?” Derpy asked, confused.

“Not now, Derpy,” The Doctor snapped. “How do you know that mare?” he demanded.

“Because she likes to visit me as well,” Pensword answered. “You think I am just at the beck and call of one Timelord?” Pensword shook his mane. “Trust me, I think it would be best if we hurried before some time paradox event occurs. Besides, Doctor, I need to talk to you about building something of an Equis response team for any of your ‘friends’ who might visit Equis while you are off world saving another galaxy.”

“Later, Pensword,” The Doctor snapped. He was holding his scanner over a spot on the floor where a small pile of ash lay midst a single green wire. “Gone,” he hissed. “But where? When? Derpy, bag me.”

“Right,” Derpy said as she handed a bread bag over. The Doctor promptly snatched it and carefully began dusting the ash and wire into it.

“We can only hope what’s left is enough,” he said clinically as he eyed the bag, then turned promptly to the gathered group. “Well, what’re you lot waiting for? You said you weren’t going to stay behind, so come on then.” With that, he raced out the door as fast as his legs would carry him, bag in mouth.

“Doctor, wait for me!” Derpy cried as she followed.

Pensword immediately took to the air, flew out through the top of the doorway, and nearly knocked Lightning Dust out of the air in his haste.

“What gives? First the stallion nearly plows me over, then some googly-eyed grey Pegasus almost clips my wings, and now you almost clock me. Where’s the emergency?” she asked.

“Lightning, this is a classified event. Tell Lunar Fang that I have to go hunt down the human Shawn, and I do not know when I will be back. It might be soon, or it might be a few days. Also, if Lunar Fang or Fox Feather make any objections, or seem ready to strangle you, just tell them that I am going to put myself on the couch for this stunt, and not to hurt you. I will accept the consequences when I return.”

Lightning Dust nodded fearfully and Pensword continued on his way.

“Vital, whatever you do, don’t let go,” Grif said, grabbing the Unicorn’s foreleg in his before taking off after The Doctor at almost maximum speed. Vital barely had enough time to close his mouth before the rush of air roared past his ears and everything became a blur.

Lightning Dust was about to fly off to Lunar Fang’s quarters when a sudden gust of wind spun her silly, leaving a series of wonderbolt medals circling her head as she plopped down on the floor. “Yes, Mommy, I’m gonna be the best flyer there is. Can I go to sleep now?” Then she promptly collapsed on the floor.


Hammer Strike arrived at a spacious clearing. Cold winter winds whipped and bit into his flanks as snow flurries lashed around the perimeter of the forest. Numerous Kitsunes lay sprawled out dead. Backed into a corner of the clearing, a dark orange Kitsune kit stood holding the broken head of a naginata like a sword in a shaking stance. Behind him, another kit was looking after what Hammer Strike had first assumed to be a dead kit before he noticed the faint flicker of movement that heralded a critical condition. Encroaching on the trio in a blur of ice and wind stood a trio of windigos.

“I said stay back!” The orange kit growled, spitting out a rather pathetic fireball at them.

Taking no time to think of a proper plan, Hammer Strike charged towards the closest windigo near him. As soon as he deemed the distance right he lept into the air, bringing his right forehoof back as it burst with gold magic. The reaction was instantaneous. The windigo shrieked in pain and disappeared. The ground beneath where it had once pawed in the air had been thawed and steamed from the outburst of energy.

Hammer Strike landed in front of the trio of Kitsunes, taking a moment to evaluate the duo of Windigos left before launching himself at the next closest target. Bringing his left hoof back, it followed the pattern previously, only this time with a dark blue energy. Instead of a burst of power, silver spikes began to form on his hoof that soon spread to ultimately become dark blue claws. Lunging forward, he used them to tear into the second Windigo. As the claws passed through the wind spirit’s form, trails of silver light seemed to be carved into the creature, which instantly began to spread. The Windigo screamed in pain as the purifying light burned away it’s very core until all that remained was a shadowy outline in the wind. In a matter of moments even the outline was gone, leaving a set of snowflakes to be blown away on the wind and dispersed across the forest.

Hammer Strike blinked and found himself standing once again before the kits in an instant.

A low cry came from behind. “Gakushu? Gakushu, don’t leave us now. Gakushu!”

Normally when Hammer Strike got angry things caught on fire or melted. Sometimes both at the same time. But there was an eeriness to it now as as his eyes glowed a dark purple that was nearly black. His face was unreadable as he looked into the windigo’s eyes. It held that gaze for only a moment before it shrieked, rearing back in fear. The beast had lived for centuries and fed much on fear, pain, and other negative emotion. But nothing, nothing compared to the cold rage of righteous indignation that burned before it now.

The Windigo moved to flee, only for Hammer Strike to throw his front right leg out in an angry thrust. The front of it almost seemed to vanish as ethereal fire blazed where it had been cut off. Instantly a massive black armored claw tore from a crack that seemed to break from Faust knows where. The growl that came from Hammer Strike was almost feral as his other foreleg shot out, vanishing in the same manner. His body rose into the air, held up by some unearthly force as a second claw broke into existence and grabbed the spirit, forcing it to turn and face its end. The two entities locked eyes one final time, the black void of cold rage and the fearful cold of winter. In an instant the claws pulled, tearing the immaterial beast in two and dragging both halves back to wherever they came from. The cracks sealed behind them as Hammer Strike’s legs returned to him.

“... I don’t believe it,” the smaller kit said, gaping at the Pony.

The dark orange kit held the blade up higher, though his voice carried no confidence. “S-stay back!” he said.

“But Kurama, it’s–”

“Haku, be quiet,” the orange fox snapped. “Get ready to get Gakushu out of here.”

Hammer Strike gave a soft chuckle. “I don’t blame you for fearing that. I can hardly tell what I did, honestly. Just wanted to stop them from harming.” Hammer Strike spoke softly, though still loud enough to be heard as he faced away from them.

The young kit faltered, still obviously unsure what to do. His eyes scanned over the frozen bodies around them, stopping painfully at one older male with a similar coloring.

“Can … can you help us? Please,” the one called Haku begged, his voice catching in his throat. “He … he can’t die. Not after all this.” Tears matted the kit’s fur as a weak glow emanated from his hands. He ran it gently over the prone body’s chest as it fluttered, even as Haku’s own teeth chattered.

Hammer Strike turned and began to approach the trio. “Let me see his injuries, and I’ll be able to tell you if I have the supplies to do it.”

“I-it’s not his injuries. It’s his body temperature. They … they hit him with something that’s freezing him.” Haku shivered again. “I’m trying to keep his body heat up, but ….”

“Magically freezing him?” Hammer Strike questioned as he focused, his eyes lighting up with blue energy.

“Those things hit him,” the one called Kurama said, looking at the group around them. “They attacked out of nowhere. My uncle tried to keep them off us but, but he….” The kit trailed off, looking back to the bodies.

“Kurama, was it?” Hammer Strike asked. “I don’t want to sound rude, but for now we need to focus on the living to keep that going. Once we are able to survive, then we can mourn the deceased and prepare proper burials.” He passed the young fox by and approached the other two. The unconscious one’s breath barely made a puff of steam. The Pony lord knelt down beside the kit and gazed upon the struggling form. His eyes trailed left and right as he scanned the body with glowing eyes.

“A-are you … by chance … well, are you …?” Haku asked through chattering teeth.

“Hammer Strike? Yes,” he replied. Placing a hoof onto the one called Gakushu, a dim glow enveloped it. He held it there for a few seconds, then slowly began to retract. As he drew the hoof back a small blue shard began to take form in his grip. After a moment he pulled it close to inspect it, only to place it into his coat shortly afterwards. “There.”

Gakushu gasped, his eyes flapping wide open as he suddenly sat up and started coughing. Haku let out a low cry and immediately grabbed Gakushu in a warm embrace, even as he continued to shake. Kurama moved beside his friends, attempting to try and make a steady fireball to warm them. Unfortunately, all that came from his hands were sparks.

Hammer Strike sighed. Extending a hoof in his usual manner, a cheerful orange flame consumed it. Slowly the flame coalesced into a small orb that radiated heat and light. He huffed, surprised at the decrease he felt in his energy reserves. The fact that it took more effort and energy to conjure fire than usual gave him some discomfort. Something must have been interfering. But what? He’d have to investigate later.

“Thank you, Hammer Strike Sama.” Haku bowed his head.

“I’m sorry, Haku. I failed you both,” Kurama said, bowing his head to the other kit.

“Kurama, please …”

“They nearly killed Gakushu. They nearly killed you. I had one task on this trip and I failed.”

Gakushu shivered as he sniffed and rubbed his paws over his fur. “What were those things?” he asked in the native tongue of the Kitsune.

Haku shuddered. “I don’t know, Gakushu.

“We–we can’t stay here,” Kurama said. “Those things could come back. We need to find shelter.”

“Then let’s get moving, shall we?” Hammer Strike asked, directing the orb of fire onto his back. “I can carry any of you while you warm up. Being frozen won’t help the search for a cave.”

“I will be fine, Hammer Strike Sama. Gakushu will require the heat more, I believe.” Haku placed a supporting arm around the young fox and pulled him up. “Will you ride on his back, Gakushu?

“Honestly, I could carry all three of you if needed,” Hammer Strike commented. “I’ll leave you to decide.”

kurama had not heard him. He leaned over the body of an older male, his fingers at the body’s neck, his head bowed.

Gakushu shivered, then nodded his head as he drew nearer to the fire. “What happened to those creatures?”

We were saved by that Pony,” Haku said, pointing. “He is the illusive Hammer Strike.

“But that ... that means danger is here. Nine-tailed Sensei said that the land was in peace and we would be fine with this training mission.” He sniffled.

The danger is past,” Haku assured him. “He has offered us safe passage and asked that we ride on his back to keep warm. I wish you had paid more attention in our language classes, Gakushu.” Haku sighed.

“I am a gatherer, not a speaker. It was hard enough to learn to read and write in their language.”

My apologies, Gakushu. Past events have put me on edge. But our savior has asked. What is your answer? I will translate for you.”

“I want to be near the flames, so I shall ride on his back,” he answered with a grimace. “Haku, can you at least bring me my sensei’s satchel?”

First I will place you on Hammer Strike Sama’s back. Then I will retrieve them.”

Gakushu rolled his eyes, but relented.

Meanwhile Kurama had finished retrieving his uncle’s short sword as well as his sword belt and anything that the young kit may have need of in the future. When he had finished, he pushed his uncle’s body, arranging it so that he appeared to be resting. He then rested the long sword on the Kitsune’s chest and laid his uncle’s paws over it before he raised his paw and glared at the palm of his hand. A tiny flicker of a heatwave appeared at first. He squinted, his arm shaking with effort. At last, a small fireball ignited in his hand. Carefully, he laid it down upon the former warrior’s body and watched as it set alight in a flash of orange light. “Remember the rules, Haku. There must be nothing left to be found,” he called before moving to the next body.

Trembling, Haku nodded. He quickly moved from corpse to corpse, taking a few scrolls, some brushes, an inkwell or two, and placed them into a portable satchel. Afterwards, he reclaimed a separate satchel and laid it over his other shoulder. Afterwards, he ignited his own fire in his paws. Rather than the cheerful orange, this one was a cherry red. Soon the clearing was alight with foxfire.

“Goddess take you and reward you.” Kurama bowed his head as he finished with his last corpse.

Amen.

As one, the two foxes turned tiredly to face a curious looking Hammer Strike.

“We are ready to depart, Hammer Strike Sama. Though I believe we may need to accept your offer of riding for a time. The ceremonies for our dead require burning, and we have grown weary from our exertions,” Haku said.

Hammer Strike nodded. “Then get on. I’ll get us going.”

The two did so silently, taking one last look at the clearing as they made their way from it. The fires had dimmed down to mere wisps before slowly guttering out as they left. “It will be at least two years before they send someone to discover what happened.” Kurama sighed.

Hammer Strike hummed for a moment. Thoughts flitted through his mind as he tried to figure out what he could do with the trio on his back. “I don’t know how long I’ll be around these parts, but for as long as I’m here, I can offer assistance.”

“Do you not have other business to attend to?” Haku asked.

“Not for now.”

Praise the Goddess,” he said fervently.

Hammer Strike gave a small sigh as he set off, his eyes scanning the environment for any sign of a cave or location that they could use for a campsite. The other half of his mind was thinking through what in the world was happening to him. His field felt different, odd. Fire was normally so easy for him to use, but now he needed more focus just to conjure a simple ball of the stuff. Internally, he could feel the magic circulating. Cold and warmth coursed through his body simultaneously. That was … different.

After some time Hammer Strike found a cave for them to use and settled the group inside, leaving the ball of fire near the trio. He sat off to the side as he looked outside the cave. “I’ll head for firewood in a bit.”

Kurama set about unloading one of the satchels. “Fortunately, we have rations. We originally had enough for the entire group for a month. If we are careful, and preserve the meat, we may have enough to feed us for four months. I am sorry, Hammer Strike Sama, but it is mostly dried meat.”

“Don’t worry about it. I could still eat it, but I’ll stick with what I can find out there whenever I feel hunger.”

“Perhaps we can be of assistance to you after we have recovered,” Haku offered.

Hammer Strike just chuckled as he rose and walked into the frozen forest. “I’ll be back soon.”

PreviousChapters Next