> A Daedra's Heart > by Randablitz > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Prologue: A Change of Scenery > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- In the realm of Oblivion known as the Isles of Perception, a realm that was as ever changing as a person's life. How it appeared was in accordance to one's moralistic life choices, to some an eternal paradise, for others a dismal, sad, gray realm. The realm has three distinct cities that are bordered by a mountain range, lush countryside, and a thick forest full of wild animals. Each of the cities have unique weather patterns, and societies. The first city is known as Greyan the city of the morally corrupt, and cruel. The weather there consists of dark clouds, fog, ice, and rainstorms. Greyan is often described as the sociopathic version of the Imperial City, where the buildings are gray, cold, and devoid of emotion. The second city is known as Orden the city of the morally neutral. Upon first glance, one might confuse Orden with the hold of Falkreath in the province of Skyrim because the buildings all have thatched roves, wooden frames, and the thick forest lies to the western edge of the city. This region's weather pattern is as unpredictable, and diverse as the weather on the mortal plane of Mundus. The third city of this realm is appropriately named Virtuoso. This particular city is home to the morally responsible, and selfless. This city is a beautiful fortress made of a combination of black steel, stone, and naturally growing soul gem formations. It is within this very city that the ruler lives in the appropriately named landmark known as the Palace of Morals. This palace features a large tower that overlooks the entire city and gleams in the sunlight as the sun rises and sets each day to help travelers find their way to the city. Within the Palace of Morals, the Daedric Prince Kai was awakening to a beautiful sunrise, but he looked like he hadn't slept in a decade or so. Kai was 6-feet tall, had dark brown hair, a fair complexion, a slender build, and hazel eyes. Kai cleared his throat and shouted, "GARRIN, GET IN HERE NOW!" As if on cue, Garrin appeared in his master's bedroom wearing his armor and stood a good a foot or two away from his master. Garrin stands at the height of 5' 8", he had the appearance of a Dunmer with two horns protruding from his head, and had red war paint around his eyes and continued down to his neck. "You called for me master?" Garrin asked. "Yes, I did Garrin, I need to know something." Kai stated bluntly. "What do need to know master?" "I need to know why I've been feeling so damn miserable and bored, I mean really, I haven't felt this horrible since the time I stressed myself out about getting stuck in the Hunting Grounds for twenty years!" Kai stated angrily at the fact he nearly embarrassed himself in front of Hircine. Suddenly Garrin's voice broke the silence in the room, "Well my lord, I think that a change of scenery could do you some good." Garrin suggested. "I mean, it would give you an opportunity to at least cease your boredom and depression." Garrin stated in a matter-of-fact tone. "Yeah, that sounds great Garrin, but I think you're forgetting something." Kai said with a slightly forced smile on his face. "And what would that be master?" "I'm not allowed in the mortal realm in any way!!" Kai shouted angrily at his faithful chamberlain with the force of a hurricane while preparing a fireball destruction spell. "Wait master, I meant to a plane of existence where no one has ever heard of either the Aedra, or Daedra!" Garrin shouted in complete fear of his master's wrath. Kai stopped himself mid cast of his fireball that was aimed straight at his servant's face for his statement from earlier. Kai didn't say a word for what felt like an eternity, but it was only five minutes and a mischievous grin made its way on to his face. "Garrin, I have only one thing to say to you about your plan." Kai said in his usually calm and collected tone of voice that he uses to address his worshipers. "And what's that my Lord?" Garrin asked completely puzzled by his master's sudden change in his mood. "YOU'RE A GODSDAMN GENIUS!" Kai shouted in sheer happiness whilst leaping into the air nearly breaking through the ceiling of his bedroom. He eventually came back down and hugged his servant with the force of a spine shattering slab of granite. "I'm glad you think so master, but could you do me a favor please?" the hapless dremora asked his gleeful master who was unknowingly crushing his spine. "And what would that favor be my friend?" "Could you please stop crushing me I can't breathe!" Garrin shouted almost inaudibly due to the fact that his lungs were being squashed. "Whoops, I am so very sorry about that Garrin..." He paused "It's just that, this has got to be your most brilliant idea EVER!" He shouted in absolute joy. Kai then released his chamberlain from his death grip of a hug and smiled widely at him. "So what do we do now?" He asked with curiosity in his voice. "I really don't know my master, perhaps we should prepare ourselves for our journey, or something like that." The dremora said with shrug not really knowing what to do for such a journey. "Right, let's see what we need to bring," Kai said thinking of what to bring on this journey. "Maybe we should bring my artifacts, clothes, throne, weapons, armor, and these miniature statues of myself." He said listing out all of the things they were taking with them to this new plane of existence. "Sounds perfect my Lord, now shall we?" Garrin asked his master eagerly waiting his response. "Yep, let's go." Kai said with affirmation present in his voice. "But I think we should create an Oblivion Gate outside the cities so that we can enjoy the scenic route home or something like that." "Great idea it would also help us out if we choose to return at any time." Garrin said nodding his head in agreement. Once they reached the outskirts of all three of the cities the opened an Oblivion Gate that was set on the magical signature of their destination. "Alright then let's get this show on the road, are you ready?" Kai looked to his faithful companion. Garrin simply nodded and the both of them stepped through the rift the made in the fabric of space and time. Meanwhile in Canterlot Castle in Equestria, Princess Celestia just finished raising the sun for the morning to start her day, but while she made her way to the throne room she heard something. She had heard this sound before, it was the sound of somepony crying. Celestia followed the sound of the voice down the hallway and ended up standing right in front of Luna's bedroom. Celestia pressed her ear to the door listening the sound of her sister crying her heart out. Celestia finally pulled her head away from the door and regained her composure trying not to shed a tear in sympathy for her sister. "Lulu, are you alright?", Celestia asked with concern. "Y-Yes, I'm fine Tia." Luna said in between sobs hoping her sister would leave her alone. "That's a lie Lulu, please don't lie to me, I'm worried about you." Celestia said with genuine sincerity in her voice. "GO AWAY!" Luna shouted in the Royal Canterlot Voice at her dear sister. "I'm just trying to help you Luna, because we're family and family sticks together right?" Celsetia said starting to tear up from the emotional wound that her own sister had given her. "Please Lulu, I don't like it when you're upset, it breaks my heart to see you this way." she said trying to regain her little sister's attention. "Open the door please I want, no I NEED to talk to you." Celestia stated as calmly as she could. "Oh fine, whatever." Luna said sniffling. Luna trotted over to her door and opened it to see that her older sister standing outside her door. "What do you want?" Luna asked wiping her eyes of her fresh tears. "I just want to know what's bothering you, that's all." "Well if you must know, I'm upset because I don't seem to be liked beyond my status as Princess of the Night." "I'm sure that somepony likes you outside of your royal duties." "You're not getting it Tia, I want somepony to adore me above all others." Luna said nearly snapping at her older sister. "I think I get it now, you want somepony to be romantically involved with you, is that what this is about?" Celestia said looking directly at her little sister's face to see if she was correct. "Y-Yes, that is exactly what I mean!" Luna nearly shouted. "Well I think that there's a somepony out there for you, all you have to do is find him by trusting your heart." Celestia said encouragingly placing a hoof under her dear sister's muzzle. "Thanks Tia, I needed to hear you say that, I'm sorry I caused a ruckus for you this morning." Luna said apologetically. "Don't worry about it Lulu, that's what I'm here for, now that we've solved this problem, I think you should get some rest, and we'll talk at dinner ok?" Celestia said smiling at Luna. "Yeah sure, I'll see you later." Luna said as she turned around and headed back into her room closing the door behind her to get some rest. Hours later, Celestia was eating lunch in her study when she felt an enormous tremor in her mind. This tremor didn't last for very long though, so she couldn't determine who, or what it was that caused the tremor. After eating her lunch, Celestia read through all of the various documents that were either reports from her former student Princess Twilight Sparkle, or letters from any foreign executives from Saddle Arabia, or otherwise. After reading the last letter from Twilight, Celestia found herself completely dumbfounded at what had just occurred a few moments ago. "I still can't quite wrap my head around it, how could a magical disturbance just disappear without any reason?" she said to herself as if to convince herself that she wasn't going insane. "Maybe I should ask Luna if Luna sensed it while she was asleep, or she had a dream that might have a more detailed account about this occurrence." she said to herself to make sure that somepony else was just as confused as she was. Sometime later, Luna woke up from her slumber to get ready for her duties as princess of the night. "Ah, I feel so much better." Luna said while yawning. "I wonder what 'interesting' things happened today." she said sarcastically as far as she knew there was nothing usually interesting going on ever since Twilight and her friends defeated Tirek. As Luna made her way to the dining room she stopped when she saw her older sister walking towards her. Luna could tell that something was bothering her sister, but she couldn't figure out what it was. "I wonder what's bothering her" Luna muttered to herself. "Hey Tia what's new with you?" Luna asked hoping to get her sister's attention. "Oh nothing much, how about you?" Celestia asked casually. " Oh you know the usual." The two alicorns trotted their way to the dining room where they were greeted by a simple soup and salad dinner complete with wine, fresh fruit, and cake for dessert. They took their seats across from each other. They ate their soup in complete silence, and most of their salads until Luna decided to speak up. "Is something wrong Tia?" Luna asked arching her eyebrow in confusion. "I don't think so, why?" "I'm only asking because you look like you just saw a ghost or something." Luna said pointing out the fact that her sister hasn't said a word since they started eating. "Well since you brought it up" Celestia paused preparing herself to tell her sister of the disturbing occurrence that happened earlier that afternoon. "I sensed this strange magical tremor while I was reading through the many letters from Saddle Arabia earlier this afternoon." "What caused it?" Luna asked truly curious about what her sister had just said. "That's where it gets very strange, as quickly as it entered my mind it vanished just as quickly, I have no idea what could be powerful enough to hide its magical signature so easily." "That is strange, but you look like you want to ask me something else about the same thing." Luna said while noticing her sister's pleading expression. "Well, yes, I just to know if you've had a dream that might help shed some light on the matter." Celestia stated with urgency. "Now that you mention it I did see two very strange figures appear from an odd looking stone archway that had this purple and blue glow in its center. I didn't see much after that though." Luna said looking a little disappointed in herself. "Don't think less of yourself Lulu, at least we both have some semblance of understanding for what caused that tremor and your dream today." Celestia said reassuringly. "When do you think that these beings will appear, and are they a danger to our subjects?" Luna asked with a worried expression on her muzzle. "To be honest, I really don't know, but I think we should wait and see what they do when they get here." "Agreed." After their interesting discussion at dinner Celestia went to lower the sun so Luna could raise the moon could take over for the night. "Sleep well Tia, I'll check on you when I can." Luna said to comfort her sister tat she wouldn't be alone in her dreams. "Thanks, and good night Lulu, I'll see you tomorrow morning." Celestia said as she hugged her sister and trotted off to her room to retire for the night. Meanwhile, somewhere between the Isles of Perception and Equestria, Kai and Garrin were just gliding through the rift they made in time and space. Kai fell asleep about three hours after entering the Oblivion Gate, Garrin was fighting the urge to sleep, but soon he saw a faint blue shimmer at the end of the rift. "Um, master, master, master" Garrin said while tapping Kai's shoulder in an attempt to wake him up. "Huh, What's going on, are we there yet?" Kai said sleepily. "Just about, I thought it wise to wake you so don't end up in an embarrassing position when we reach our destination." Garrin stated matter-of-factly. "Good idea, I mean we're almost there so, let's take things slow and figure out as much as we can about this plane of existence." Kai stated knowing full well that they had no idea what is going to be on the other side of that gateway. "Right, but I strongly suggest that we try to blend in with the inhabitants before we show them what we really are." Garrin reasoned. "Yes! Let's not scare them shitless with our awesome power right off the bat, because then we won't enjoy ourselves." Kai stated. "Well, get ready, we're arriving at our destination." Garrin said while observing the closeness of the gateway. "Perfect! I can't wait to see this new plane of existence." Kai said as they entered the gateway that would lead Kai to his destiny. > Chapter 1 A New World > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After nearly six hours of nonstop traveling through the rift in the space-time continuum, a new structure appeared in the middle of the Everfree Forest. The structure in question was an Oblivion Gate that led directly to the Isles of Perception. Kai and Garrin emerged from the gateway in awe of how their current surroundings looked almost like the forest they left behind only hours ago. "This is quite odd." Kai said completely at a loss for words for the current situation. "I know, it's almost as if we went in a complete circle or something." Garrin said while observing the environment around him. "Are you absolutely certain that we left the Isles Garrin?" Kai asked. "Y-Yes, I am fairly certain my Lord" Garrin stammered. "You're worried I might hit you just for the hell of it aren't you?" Kai asked his now trembling servant. "Maybe, maybe not, perhaps I was just uncertain." Garrin said trying really hard not to sound like a complete bitch in front of his master. "Whatever floats your boat my friend, but I won't lie, this is actually quite interesting due to the fact we ended up in a dimension that is similar to ours in many ways, I wonder where we are." Kai said pretty much making his curiosity and enthusiasm leap to new heights. "I'm not sure but, one thing's for damn sure, I know for a fact that we're going to gain a lot of attention from the natives." Garrin said trying to boost his own ego so he wouldn't feel left out. "Oh most definitely, but for now I think we should find some sort of civilization to see what the natives of this realm look like so we don't cause a scene." Kai said noticing that this was his servant's idea in the first place. "Agreed." The two Daedra said simultaneously. It wasn't long before the Daedric Prince of Morals and his faithful Dremora reached the outskirts of a village named Ponyville. They arrived at the WELCOME TO PONYVILLE sign just outside the village. The two of them stood there at the sign and wondered who in their right mind would name a city like a five year-old. "What the hell kind of person names their city 'Ponyville' anyway?" Kai said in a combination of both fascination and disgust. "I don't know, but at least we know where we are now, right?" Garrin asked completely curious to see if his master agreed with him. "Yeah, that's step numero uno, but we still don't know what the inhabitants even look like, so let's start there." Kai said in complete agreement with his servant, while proposing their next move. "Right let's see what we can find out about this world's inhabitants." Garrin said with a smile. "Yeah, so let's split up so we don't get into each other's way, and so we can cover more ground." Kai said while looking at the town from right to left. Garrin went towards the western, and southern ends of Ponyville, while Kai took the northern and eastern ends. The both of them weren't seeing anything other than darkened windows in each of the buildings they passed, save one. "Master, I think I found something you might want to see!" Garrin exclaimed to Kai telepathically. "Really? That's great I'm on my way!" Kai telepathically responded to his servant. The two of them now stood in front of a building that looked like a strange crystalized tree mixed with portions of a castle. What they didn't realize was that odd castle belonged to a princess. As they made their way towards the castle, Garrin suddenly stopped in his tracks. "What's wrong?" Kai asked a bit concerned for his friend. "Don't you think we should hide our appearances so we don't scare the owner before meeting them?" Garrin asked clearly concerned about whoever lived in that castle. "Oh shit, you're right I wasn't thinking straight." Kai said apologetically "But what form should we take, I mean we still have absolutely no idea what the natives of this dimension even look like yet now do we?" Kai asked Garrin hoping that he would have an answer to his question. "I was thinking of us turning ourselves invisible and muffling ourselves so no one can either see, or hear us." Garrin stated matter-of- factly. "Perfect, that gives us the chance to observe the owner without scaring them, but we must communicate by using our telepathic link or we'll be discovered and forced to leave." Kai said with urgency over their telepathic link. "Right, let's get ready." Garrin responded. The two of them prepared the two spells. The Muffle spell was a red glowing sphere in their right hands, and the Invisibility spell was a strange blend of black, red and purple sphere in their left hands. They merely flicked their right hands up into the air and they were engulfed in a red colored aura. They knew the best way to see if the spell was in effect was to try to make a loud noise, so they stomped their feet on the ground, not a sound was heard. They both looked at each other in approval and flicked their left hands into the air and they suddenly vanished from sight. "Okay, so now that all of the prep work is done let's get inside that castle!" Kai mentally said to Garrin. "Yeah, let's do this, shall I get the door?" Garrin mentally asked. "Nah, I got this." Kai said as he stepped towards the door clasping the handle firmly in his hand pulling it open. "After you." Kai stated. Garrin said nothing as he entered the castle, with his master close behind him. What they heard and saw next made them think if they were hallucinating or if this was reality. A lavender colored pony with wings, a horn, dark purple mane with a lighter shade of purple and pink in the form of narrow stripes, and a strange mark of a large pink star surrounded by smaller white stars on its flank. "I thought that I closed that door hours ago." Twilight said completely confused and unaware that she now had two strangers in her home with her. "Um, Sir, Did that pony just speak?" Garrin asked Kai telepathically. "Uh huh, I think she just did Garrin." Kai said over their link completely shocked to hear that this pony could actually speak. "What type of pony do you think she is?" Garrin asked quizzically. "Don't know I've never seen anything like her before." Kai said completely unsure if all Equestrians looked like Twilight. Twilight closed the door and went back up to her study to get some rest for the night, but what she didn't know was that she was being followed by her strange visitors. "Silly me I guess I forgot to lock my door after I got home, guess I should lock it after entering before I go to my study from now on." Twilight said as she made her way to study which was in the library with her bed in the center of the room, Spike's basket was at the foot of Twilight's bed and the baby dragon was sleeping peacefully. "Hey, Master look a she has a dragon for a pet, pretty cool right?" Garrin said excitedly. "Yes, quite amazing, can we just keep our focus on the task at hand?" Kai said not quite enthused as his companion. "Sorry if I upset you Master." Garrin said as he bowed his head in sadness. "You didn't upset me Garrin, I truly do find this pony's pet dragon amazing, but, I just want to get the trivial matters out of the way before we start making friends and stuff." Kai said apologetically to his partner while logically explaining the reason they were there in the first place. "Right of course, let's make haste and get this out of the way so we can change our forms to something they would feel most comfortable with." Garrin said with his new-found optimism. "Now that's the chamberlain I know and love!" Kai said equally enthused at learning all he could about this new world and its people. After a few short moments they read through the entirety of Twilight's library, due to the fact that the Daedra can instantly absorb infinite amounts of knowledge extremely quickly. "Okay, so that's all we need to know, so let's get out of here and change our forms and come back to introduce ourselves later." Kai said in an excited tone wondering what his pony form would look like. "I too am anxious to see what I'll look like as a pony, let's get out of here!" Garrin said equally excited to start making new friends. As quickly as they arrived at Ponyville, they vanished into the Everfree Forest to change their forms. They both stood near a pond so that they could see what they looked like, and admire their features. "I'll go first, you'll go next." Kai said pointing at himself, then pointing to Garrin. Garrin simply nodded in response to show that he understood his instructions. Kai snapped his fingers, and then he grew a horn, two wings, his hands and feet turned into hooves, he grew a tail, and lastly the emblem of his realm of Oblivion appeared on his flanks. "So, tell me, how do I look?" Kai asked his dremora companion. "You look awesome Master!" Garrin shouted quietly. "I mean your coat, wings, and horn color is your skin color, your mane and tail are your hair color, your eyes look like a reptile's, but they're still hazel." Garrin pointed out all of his master's features to show that not much had actually changed. "Oh and also the emblem of home is that "cutie mark" thing we learned about too." Garrin added making absolutely sure he didn't leave anything out. Kai looked at his flank and saw a design that consisted of a halo and devil horns being separated by weighted scales in the middle. "Perfect, now it's your turn, let's see what you look like my friend." Kai said quivering with anticipation to see what pony form Garrin would have. Garrin did the exact same thing as his master, snapping his fingers and allowing his body to change its form. Garrin also grew a horn, a tail, his hands and feet became hooves, the mark of an Oblivion Gate formed on his flanks. "So, how do I look?" Garrin asked his master. "You look quite intimidating my friend, but I know that you're still the same dremora I've always known." Kai said looking his companion over. "I mean you still have your armor on, but I can tell that your coat, and horn color is grey, your eyes are still red, and you have an Oblivion Gate as your "cutie mark." Kai said pointing out all of Garrin's features. "Cool, so I guess that makes you an Alicorn, and me Unicorn." Garrin said with accuracy in his words. "Yep, now let's go make some friends." Kai said with a bounce in his step as they set off for Ponyville again. > Chapter 2: First Impressions > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was about time for Celestia to wake up and raise the sun to begin the new day so Luna could get some well deserved rest from her duties last night. Celestia yawned and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. After she stretched her neck, wings, and legs she went to the Solar Balcony to raise the sun. She strode over to the balcony and illuminated her horn. Her horn glowed with a pale gold aura and she lifted her head slowly raising the sun to begin the day. Now that the Princess of the Sun was out of bed, she went to get some breakfast and have a chat with Luna before she went to her room to sleep. "Good morning, Lulu." Celestia said in a cheerful tone as she walked to the dining hall. "Good 'yawn' morning Tia, did you sleep well last night?" Luna asked sleepily. "Oh yes, I slept like a filly last night." Celestia said with a smile. "That's good to hear." Luna said trying to hide her worries from her sister. "Okay Lulu, what is it?" Celestia said sensing that her sister had some valuable information for her. "Well, do you remember what we talked about yesterday evening?" Luna asked "I do, why?" Celestia said with slight worry in her voice. "Well I felt that tremor again last night, but there was something even stranger about it this time." Luna said with urgency. "What happened, Tell me everything!" Celestia demanded. "Alright, the tremor I felt didn't just disappear, this time it lingered and I felt a strange presence, and it's nothing like I've ever felt before!" Luna explained. Celestia waved a hoof at the sister signaling her to continue. "Then this presence split into two different directions over Ponyville, then they converged on Princess Twilight's castle, then the presence just vanished, then after about five to ten minutes it reappeared again in the Everfree Forest." Luna finished her recollection panting as if she was running away from a manticore. "Can you sense it Tia?" Luna eventually asked after she caught her breath. "Yes I can sense it, and it's heading towards Ponyville again, but why would it do that?" Celestia asked as if somepony knew the answer. "I think we should send Twilight a letter to let her know about these recent developments and that we're coming to visit Ponyville to see if anything strange has happened." Luna suggested to Celestia since they both know that something strange is happening at this very moment. "You're right, let me get my ink well, quill, and parchment." Celestia said as they were making their way to Celestia's bedroom. "Dear Twilight, I need you and the other element bearers to gather at your castle immediately! For you see, my sister Luna, and I have to speak to all of you about something that we think could possibly be a threat to all of Equestria! Luna and I will give you and the others a proper briefing when we arrive later this afternoon. Sincerely, Princess Celestia." After quickly reading over her letter to Twilight, Celestia illuminated her horn to send Twilight her letter about what was going on lately. "Do you think they'll be ready for what we have to tell them Lulu?" Celestia said turning her head towards Luna. "Probably not, but what other choice do we have Tia?" Luna said with certainty. Meanwhile in Twilight's castle, Princess Twilight Sparkle was just now getting out of her bed after a good night's rest. She looked over to Spike's basket, only to see that Spike wasn't there. "He's probably in the kitchen." Twilight said as she shrugged her shoulders and started to make her bed. After she got done with her bed, she heard the sound of Spike belching, which meant that he just got a message from Celestia. "What did Princess Celestia send you Spike?" the lavender alicorn asked as she trotted into the dining room. "Um, Twilight I think you should read this, it sounds like something bad is coming!" Spike shouted as he ran towards Twilight with Celestia's letter. "Let me see that!" Twilight exclaimed as she illuminated her horn summoning the letter in Spike's hand. Twilight quickly read through the letter, as she read it she felt her former mentor's worry, and urgency in the words that were visible on the parchment in front of her. "So what do we do Twi?" Spike asked "Let's go find the rest of the girls, they need to know about this just as much as we do." Twilight said with a serious expression on her face. With that being said the lavender alicorn and her baby dragon ran out of the castle to look for their friends. "Let's head to Rarity's boutique first, then we'll head to Fluttershy's cottage since they'll be harder to convince about this kind of thing." Spike said matter-of-factly. "Right let's get moving!" Twilight said with authority. The two of them ran as fast as they could to get to Carousel Boutique before Rarity could be open for business. They knocked on the door like the world was at an end! "I'm coming, I'm coming, just hold on a moment!" said a posh accented ivory white unicorn shouted over the pounding on her front door. Rarity opened her door to see both Twilight and Spike panting and sweating as if the Royal Guard was chasing them. "Oh my, What's got you two in such a fuss?" She asked. "No time to explain right now, just get to my castle, the princesses will explain it later." Twilight said in between pants telling her dear friend to hurry. "Slow down darling, now, tell me what's going on." Rarity said to her exhausted friend hoping she would comply. "We can't we're just as clueless as you, but we're instructed to get together to discuss it later." Spike said. "Very well I'll go get Pinkie on the way." Rarity said as she looked at her friends with a confused look. "Thanks Rarity, that'll save us the trouble of trying to get Pinkie to listen to us." Twilight said rolling her eyes at the very idea of trying to get the energetic party planner to shut up and listen to her. Fluttershy woke up with a smile on her face as she heard her birds singing a pleasant song to wake her up in the morning. After she stretched her legs and wings she proceeded to feed her animals before she made herself some breakfast. While Fluttershy was eating her toast there was a knock at her door. She knew that it was her life long friend Rainbow Dash knocking on her door to ask her if she wanted to hang out. "Come in Rainbow." Fluttershy said quietly. "Hey Flutters, do ya wanna hang out later this afternoon?" Rainbow asked. "Sure, but I need to take care of a few things before we leave, if that's okay with you." Fluttershy asked politely. "There's no rush, I took the day off, so I have all day!" Rainbow Dash said as she waved her hoof to make it clear to her friend that she wasn't bothered at all. "Thanks, it'll only take a few minutes anyway." Fluttershy said with a gentle smile. "'Kay, can I come in?" Rainbow asked. "Oh sure, no problem." Fluttershy said. The two pegasi mares sat inside Fluttershy"s cottage just talking about what's been going on lately, until there was another knock at the door. "I'll get it." Rainbow said as she got up from the couch and trotted over to the door. "Oh hey Twi, what's up?" She said with a smile "Hey Rainbow, is Fluttershy home?" Twilight asked out of breath. "Yeah, she's here why?" Rainbow asked the lavender princess. "I need the both of you to head to my castle to prepare for the princesses' arrival later on today, it's urgent, so I can't stay for long." "Yeah, yeah, I get the drill." Rainbow said nodding her head in acceptance. "Thanks, I knew I could count on you, could you inform AJ while you're on your way?" Twilight asked her rainbow maned friend. "Yeah, sure." Rainbow said with an exasperated sigh. After Twilight and Spike told their friends about getting together at her castle, they began to wonder what all of this was about. Twilight seemed to be the most confused, as she had never received a letter that was so vague from her former teacher, but she shrugged it off as it was going to be explained to her and her friends later on. 'I wonder what this is all about, I hope we find out soon' Twilight thought to herself. Meanwhile in the Everfree Forest, Kai and Garrin were sprucing themselves up to meet the natives of Equestria fully unaware that their first meeting was going to be slightly awkward. Kai gave himself a brief once-over to make absolutely sure he wasn't missing anything important. "Uh, Garrin?" Kai asked, but stopping mid sentence noticing something was missing. "Yes Master?" Garrin asked his troubled master. "Did I come through the portal nude, or did I have my undergarments on?" Kai asked while looking at his body in a nearby pool of water. "You were wearing your undergarments, why do you ask?" Garrin asked. "I just wanted to make sure that I wasn't going crazy, that's all." Kai said with a hint of embarrassment. "You're wondering if you packed any clothes for yourself aren't you?" Garrin said noting his master's lack of subtly. "Yeah, so did I pack anything or not?" Kai asked with a blush growing on his face. "As a matter of fact, you did, I've got your greaves, comfy bath robe and pants, cloak, dress shirts, and Dovah mail." "Perfect! Now I just have to figure out what I want to wear." Kai said while looking at his clothing options. "Ok, I think I'll wear my Dovah mail under my black dress shirt, with my white tie, put my camo pants on, then my greaves, then finally my Mage robe without my cloak." Kai said as he levitated each of the items he was going to wear that day. "Excellent choices sir, but what about me?" Garrin said noticing that he didn't have very many clothing options. "Don't worry," Kai said placing his hoof on Garrin's shoulder, "I'm pretty sure we can find a tailor for you and buy you some clothes, does that sound fair?" he asked looking at his companion's saddened expression. Garrin simply nodded in understanding that the suggestion was a good one, but he wished he had packed more than just his armor. "Good that's settled, now let's get back to Ponyville and introduce ourselves to everypony properly." Kai said with a slight grimace at changing everybody to everypony. "Right, where shall we go first?" Garrin asked with enthusiasm. "Let's go back to that castle that's inhabited by that lavender alicorn and dragon to thank them for the vast amounts of knowledge we needed in order to fit in around here, and to also apologize for our method of 'asking' for assistance." Kai said realizing that they snuck into Twilight's castle the night before. "Yes, it would be a pity if we never told her about how we managed to acquire all of this knowledge without asking first." Garrin said with a courteous tone. Meanwhile back at Twilight's castle the other members of the Mane 6 as well as the princesses of the day and night were all waiting for Twilight and Spike to return so they could get their meeting underway. "Where is she?" Celestia asked irritation evident in her voice. "She should have been back here ten minutes ago." Celestia continued her slight rant about how her former student to be this late to a meeting on a matter that could determine the fate of all Equestria. Twilight bursted through the doors panting as if she was being chased by Princess Celestia herself. "Sorry we're late, I got lost in my thoughts and lost track of time!" she said in between pants. "It's alright Twi, we didn't even start yet." Applejack said trying to calm her friend. "Yeah, calm down egghead." Rainbow Dash stated waving her hoof dismissively. "Yes listen to your friends Twilight, you didn't miss anything important." Celestia said warmly to her former pupil to restore her confidence. Twilight nodded in understanding knowing that her former teacher wasn't mad at her for being a little late. "Right shall we begin sister?" Luna asked Celestia in hopes that the meeting would proceed. "Yes, of course." Celestia started. "I suppose all of you are wondering why you were all summoned at such short notice?" She asked. The members of the Mane 6 all nodded their heads. "Well it all started yesterday afternoon while I was eating my lunch..." Celestia went on to describe that these magical anomalies were albeit natural, yet held a sinister feeling lurking in her mind. The Mane 6 were astounded that these anomalies had occurred and Twilight didn't feel them before Celestia. "... and that's why Luna and I have summoned you here to ask you for your help against whatever caused these disturbances." Celestia concluded her story detailing recent events. "Don't ya worry none Princesses we'll make sure that whatever is causin' these disturbances is put right." Applejack said reassuringly to both Celestia and Luna. "The six of you have done so much for Equestria, and I know that you'll be up to the task." Luna said with a smile as she and her sister were about to leave until there was a knock on the door. "Tia what's wrong?" Luna asked. "I felt another tremor and it's sustaining itself, it seems that whatever it is at the door is the cause for all of this!" Celestia shouted while pointing at the door with a quivering foreleg. "Then get ready to throw down girls, 'cause we're kick some flank!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed with a proud expression on her muzzle. "Now, Rainbow we hardly know anything about them." Rarity said. "We could, um try to get to know them, if they don't mind that is." Fluttershy nearly whispered. "Yeah we shouldn't jump to conclusions just 'cause we don't know them, besides they're probably just wanting to make new friends!" Pinkie shouted in her over energetic voice. Outside Twilight's castle Kai was starting to get a little impatient about waiting for the owner of this castle to allow them entry. "How long are we going to just stand here until I get angry enough to just blast the door down?!" Kai growled while pacing back and forth in front of the door. "Perhaps we should come back later." Garrin suggested. "Maybe we should, I mean we've already wasted about ten minutes standing outside, and we've yet to introduce ourselves." Kai stated with despair in his voice. "Don't worry, Master, we'll get our chance you'll see!" Garrin said with enthusiasm to help perk up his master from his sour mood. "Yeah, I guess you're right, so let's just wait a little longer." Kai said with renewed hope in his voice. After much deliberation Celestia decided to meet this new stranger despite the ungodly amount of power it exuded. "Twilight," Celestia said before taking a deep breath, "Let the stranger come in." she said calmly. "Yes Princess, Spike," Twilight called to her dragon assistant, "Get the door please." she said with a gentle tone. "Sure thing." the little dragon said as he walked to the door. What Spike saw next scared him nearly to death. He saw two new ponies, one white alicorn with a brown mane and tail with hazel reptilian eyes and dressed in fancy clothing, the other was a grey unicorn that had piercing red eyes, and was dressed in armor nearly from head to hoof. The white alicorn strode forward to greet him but Spike merely screamed and ran back inside. "Well now, that was strange." Kai said with a hint of curiosity, "I haven't had that happen since that time I communed with a member of the Aldmeri Dominion about 200 years ago." he said as the little dragon's reaction was very similar to that of the Altmer he spoke to introduce himself as a benefactor to mortals. "Ah well best follow him inside then." Garrin said with a shrug. Spike continued to run towards the throne room where Twilight, Rainbow Dash, AJ, Pinkie, Fluttershy, Rarity, Celestia, and Luna were waiting to meet these strangers. Twilight stopped Spike by capturing him in her magical grip. "Put me down there are monsters out there!" Spike shouted fearful of his life. "I don't want.." his rant was cut short when Twilight placed a hoof on his mouth to get him to calm himself. "Spike," Princess Luna started, "What did they look like, the monsters you saw?" she asked with a slight twinge of fear for what these so called monsters looked like. "Well one was a white alicorn with a dark brown mane and tail, had eyes that are similar to Nightmare Moon's, but they were hazel, and he was wearing some very strange clothes, but the second one terrifies me the most because of its red eyes, and black and red armor!" Spike said recounting the brief encounter he had with the new visitors. "How do you remember so much about them when you ran away from them one minute ago?" Luna asked with one eyebrow arched. "Because they're standing right behind you!" Spike shouted at the top of his lungs before completely losing consciousness. Luna then quickly turned to see the two ponies the little dragon had described were standing behind her with very concerned looks on their faces. "Is he going to be alright?" Kai asked the group of ponies about the little dragon that was currently unconscious. "He'll be fine, just give me a minute." Twilight said before dumping a bucket of water on Spike to wake him up. Spike gasped from the freezing cold water that shocked him back into consciousness. "Drem Yol Lok, Zu'u Kai, Arhk Daar Los Garrin." Kai spoke in Dragon's Tongue assuming that Spike understood the language. "Hmm, Krosis, innumerable pardons I thought you spoke Dov." he said apologizing to the young dragon. "Dov, what does that mean?" Spike asked with an arched eyebrow. "It means 'dragon' where we come from." Garrin said clarifying what the word meant. "What you heard my master say was 'Hello, I am Kai, and this is Garrin." he said translating Kai's greeting to the ponies standing before them. "And where are you from, if that doesn't bother you." Fluttershy said hoping that the two wouldn't mind answering her query. "My servant and I hail from the land of Tamriel." Kai said with pride. "It's a place home to many interesting races, conflicts, etc." he continued to say before being interrupted by Celestia. "What do you mean 'races'?" Celestia asked as if ponies weren't the only race in that land. "By 'races' I mean beings like elves, men, Khajiit, and Argonians." Kai said with his memory serving him correctly. "Why do you ask?" he asked perplexed as how the concept of such races not existing in this land. "It's just that we've never seen or heard of such creatures before, are they nice?" Fluttershy asked. "That depends." Garrin said vaguely. "Depends on what exactly?" Luna asked. "It depends on who you talk to. For example, if you speak to a Dunmer, or Dark Elf, they'll say that the other races are nothing but beasts fit for servitude, so basically, every race has their own opinion about the others." Garrin explained to Luna hoping to clarify anything that confused the mare. "I see", Luna said somewhat unsettled by Garrin's answer. "I'm so sorry where are our manners, we've been asking you two all of these questions, and we haven't even introduced ourselves. My name is Princess Luna." Luna said extending a hoof. Garrin and Kai both bowed before Luna in respect. "And this is my sister Celestia, her former student Twilight Sparke, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash." She said pointing to each of the other ponies in the room. "Pleased to meet y'all" AJ said tipping her hat at them. "Yeah you guys seem cool." RD said with her usual cocky attitude. "Where in Equestria did you get those exquisite clothes and armor, they look simply magnificent!" Rarity said completely focuses on Kai and Garrin's attire. Everypony else simply rolled their eyes at Rarity's behavior. "I made my armor myself, but Garrins' armor is just standard issue." Kai said in response to the fashionista's question. "Yup that's Rarity for ya, but now let's PARTY!" Pinkie was sure to shout the last word at the top of her lungs. "Oh dear, I hope that isn't offensive to you two or anything." Fluttershy said while hiding behind her mane. "Not at all, in fact, I could go for a party right now." Kai said waving a dismissive hoof at Fluttershy's concern. "Now that we have introductions out of the way, I would say that both of our respective groups have left some good first impressions." Celestia said with a smile. "I couldn't agree more, but for now, let's PARTY!" Kai said with giddiness in his voice as his wings flared out. > Chapther 3: Party Games & Story-Telling > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The "Welcome To Equestria/ New Friends" party that Pinkie Pie was throwing at Twilight's castle was in full swing, everypony was playing games, drinking, talking, and dancing the night away. Kai however was doing something he loved to do around people he has never met before, and that was telling stories/ legends of the land of Tamriel. "Ugh, this is so boring!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed right in the middle of the legend of how Tamriel was created. "Oh, I'm so sorry that you find the legend of my dimension's creation so boring," Kai said agitation evident in his voice. "Then how about you think of something fun to do!" he shouted scaring the crowd of fillies and colts that sat in front of him. "Alright, I challenge you to a drinking contest, first one to pass out loses, that sound fine to you?" Rainbow Dash said with enthusiasm. "'Kay, but we're not drinking that 'cider' of yours, no, we're drinking a special brew that was made by my friend Sanguine, the Daedric Prince of Debauchery." Kai said with a devious smile plastered on his face. "Unless of course you're awesome enough to try it, then you can just walk away." he said knowing full well that if that there was one thing Rainbow Dash hated more than anything it was being publicly humiliated. "I don't care what you say I am awesome enough, so let's do this!" Rainbow said with enough pride to make even the "Great and Powerful" Trixie blush. "Alright then, ladies first." Kai said preparing the two tankards of Sanguine's Brew. "Down the hatch!" Rainbow said as she drank the tankard filled with the strange liquid. "Beat that, princey." she said eager to win. "Don't get your hopes up Rainbow, that was only round one." Kai said knocking his tankard back. "Round two starts now." he said refilling the tankards completely. "I'll give ya one last chance to give up." Rainbow said taking her tankard. "I mean, it's okay to admit that you can't win." She said trying to cover up her own false confidence. "No, not a chance I'm not even close to being drunk yet." Kai said with a smile. "Alright here goes nothin'" Rainbow said as she knocked her tankard back a second time. "Your turn." She said nearly letting out a hiccup. "And another one for me." Kai said knocking back his second tankard of the evening. In the back of his mind he remembered that this was the same exact thing that Sanguine did with him a long time ago, remembering this made him chuckle a bit. "What's so funny?" Rainbow asked arching an eyebrow at her competitor. "Oh, I just remember the time Sanguine and I did the exact same thing that we're doing, but he gave up after round two, but I'm not going to do that, how 'bout you?" Kai explained as he finished off his drink. "Alright, I think I'm gonna call it quits here, I don't feel so good." Rainbow said placing her tankard down on the table. Her statement wasn't unheard by just her competitor, but everypony in the castle stopped everything the were doing and gasped at the fact the cockiest of all ponies just said she gave up at something. "But Dashie you never give up at anything!" Pinkie Pie said completely flabbergasted by her friend. "Sorry Pinks, I just did, and I don't want to completely lose, so it's best to quit while I'm ahead." Rainbow said in near dejection. "Oh don't be so hard on yourself, besides," Kai said after drinking his third tankard, "You knew that you were going to lose if you tried to push against your stomach, so technically you never lost the contest, so it's a win-win, you get a new drinking buddy, and I get to beat somebody at something I haven't done in at least 300 years!" Kai exclaimed the drink finally giving him a buzz. A few minutes later Pinkie Pie asked if Garrin if he wanted to play "Pin the Tail on the Pony" he accepted, but what he didn't know was that Princesses Luna and Celestia had a little side bet going, Luna bet 500 bits that Garrin would pin the tail on the head, Celestia bet that he would pin the tail in the right place. "Alright let's get you set up." Pinkie said placing the blindfold over Garrin's eyes. "So the objective is to place the tail somewhere on the poster, correct?" Garrin asked to make sure he heard the instructions correctly. "Yep, now get ready to spin." With no more warning that that she spun Garrin like a top on a smooth surface. "Whoa, I think I'm going to be sick, is that normal?" "Yeah, but that's the whole point silly, now you have to pin the tail." "Alright here goes nothing!" Garrin said as he placed the tail on the poster. "Can I look now?" he asked igniting his magic to remove the blindfold. "Yeah go ahead." Pinkie said in her never fading cheerful tone. As it turned out, Garrin placed the tail in the right spot even if he was dizzier than a sweater in a tumble dryer. Celestia looked over to Luna and smiled before the words "You owe me 500 bits little sis." Luna wasn't a sore loser so she coughed up the dough she promised her sister. "Better luck next time I suppose." Luna said with a smile. "Wait, hold on a second you two were betting on me?" Garrin said with a hint of disappointment in his voice. "Yes, we did, but you still won, so there's that." Luna said smiling at the grey unicorn. About 3 hours have passed and everypony was starting to gather around Kai because Twilight noticed that more and more ponies were more interested in his stories about Tamriel. So Twilight told Vinyl, Octavia, and Lyra to play some music to fit the mood of his story-telling to keep everpony interested. As the musicians got lost in their music, Kai decided to cast a visualization spell on everypony so they could see what he was describing in his stories so he wouldn't have to suffer constant interruptions during his stories. "Alright, let's begin with the origins of Tamriel before I tell you about me, does that sound fair to everpony?" Kai asked before he began his tales of mysticism, adventure, danger, and wonder. Everypony simply nodded in response to his question. "Awesome it all starts with darkness..." Kai went on the explain how the mortal realm of Mundus was created by the Aedra, and how they are the main beings of worship, with the exception of the Dunmer that is. He went on to talk about each of the races of Tamriel, and he explained everything that his listeners needed to know about the Daedra. "Ok so are there any questions, before I continue?" Kai asked his audience with a smile. "Yeah, I've got a question Mr. Kai." Scootaloo said raising a hoof. "What's your question child?" Kai asked the little orange filly with his warm, comforting voice. "There are 18 Daedric Princes right?" Scootaloo started, "So who's the eighteenth?" she finished her question with absolute uncertainty. "I was about to tell that story, but I'll give you a hint, he's in this very room right now." Kai said with a wink. With her curiosity sated Scootaloo was very perplexed to hear about the eighteenth Daedric Prince. "Now where was I?" He rhetorically asked his audience, and they all shared a hearty laugh as they all knew where his story was ending up. "Alright jokes aside, I told all of you that mumbo jumbo to tell you the real story of my presence here, would you like to hear it?" he asked getting cheers of encouragement from even the princesses of the day, night, and friendship. "'Kay here we go, A long time ago..." Kai proceeded to tell his audience that he wasn't a pony by origin, but a simple man from the snow capped land of Skyrim that went on many exciting adventures, and how eventually became the newest addition to the Daedric pantheon. He noticed that everpony was starting to feel more afraid of him, so he decided to reassure them. "Don't worry, I'm not going to harm anyone, I just want to you to know about me before you judge me alright?" he asked with a slight frown emerging on his face. Everypony soon saw that their sudden rejection of him was foolish and misplaced and cumulatively said "Sorry, Lord of Morals". Kai chuckled at their apology slightly. "You don't have to be so 'professional', I mean we're all friends here." he said with a pleasant smile. Everpony simply smiled and nodded. "Now let me finish my story, if that's okay with you." He said with a tone that sounded like Fluttershy's. "Okay now let's see, aw shit, I forgot where I was in my story, I think I could use some help finding my place again." he said with a slight frown. Luna was the most attentive to her new friends' story and she raised her hoof to tell him where he left off, he noticed "Yes, Princess Luna, do you remember where I was in my story?" he asked quizzically. "Actually I do, you were just about to tell us about what your realm in Oblivion looks like." Luna said with utmost certainty. "Yes that's right, so glad someone is paying attention in 'class' today." Kai said jokingly making Luna blush at his comment. "Alright my realm is based off my cutie mark," he stood up drawing his cutie mark on the wall with his magic. "The halo represents those who are virtuous souls that are completely devoted to doing good, the horns represent those who are completely corrupted by their cruelty, and greed and seek to have anything they want without any regard for others, and the scales represent the morally neutral, meaning that they're not completely good, but they're not completely evil, they are an equal mix of both and don't seek to meddle in matters that don't concern them. Each of the symbols just so happen to represent the three types of souls that I'm in charge of, but perhaps the best way to explain this is to show it to you, but I'm only going to describe the city of corrupt souls in words, because I don't even go there for any reason!" Kai said with frustration making its way into his voice when he was referring to the city of Greyan. Everypony was perplexed by the complexity of his cutie mark and each of the symbols meaning, but they chose to take his word about the corrupt souls and their dwelling. "Well why did ya create the place, if ya hate it so much, sugar cube?" Applejack asked arching an eyebrow at Kai. "Gotta put the horrible bastards somewhere, I mean really as horrible as they are, they won't mess with anyone outside their city." Kai said with a shrug. "What does the word 'bastard' mean?" Sweetie Belle asked innocently. "It means that your parents weren't married when they had you, and it also means that you're extremely ungrateful." Kai said trying really hard not to give the little filly the idea that using that word was acceptable. "Are there any more questions about my language that need to be answered?" he asked sarcastically. "ah've got one, what does "piss off" mean?" Applebloom asked completely unaware of what sarcasm was. "Why did I even open my mouth?" Kai asked himself. "That word means to urinate, or that you're starting to get angry at something, it also means 'go away'." He explained as tactfully and gracefully as could. Kai could tell that the little yellow filly was still confused, so he decided to give her an idea of what he meant. "Let me give you an example, let's say you're at school and the resident school bully is picking on you and your friends, and you're not in the mood for their stupidity, so you say the phrase 'Piss off' to them they'll usually go away. Does that help?" he asked her after giving his explanation. "Ah guess so." She replied not knowing how just one word could get somepony to leave her alone. Ah think I should use that phrase the next time Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara mess with me, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle. Applebloom thought to herself. "Now, with those 'pleasantries' out of the way, who wants to eat and drink until they pass out?" Kai said with enthusiasm. "Oh, oh, I do!" Pinkie Pie squealed with glee. "Glad to see that someone got with the program!" Kai shouted in happiness. The overly energetic party pony and Daedric Prince ate and drank just about half of all the snacks and alcoholic beverages in the castle in under two hours. Kai was having a wonderful time, but it all came to an end when everpony heard a voice coming from outside the castle. The voice uttered one sentence, and that was "Come out here Twilight Sparkle, princess or not I challenge you to a magic duel!" > Chapter 4: Trixie Duels a God > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After hearing that statement Twilight and her friends groaned in annoyance at the fact that Trixie didn't seem to learn from her defeats due to her own arrogance. "What does she want now?" Twilight groaned. "I think I heard her say that she wants to duel you." Garrin said respectfully. "Oh no, not this again!" Twilight shouted in annoyance at what was being asked of her. "Why are you making a big deal about it?" Kai asked perplexed at Twilight's annoyance. "I think she wants to prove herself, so why won't you accept her request?" he asked still curious at Twilight's resentment. "It's because she'll never learn her lesson. I've already beaten her twice before I became the princess of friendship!" Twilight exclaimed in frustration at the memories of beating Trixie at her own game without completely destroying the town. "Does that answer your question?" she asked. "Yeah it answers my question, but you better make a decision quickly." Kai said before returning to the window to see a very pissed off sky blue unicorn mare with a platinum mane and tail wearing a purple wizard's hat and cloak with the symbol of a magic wand and crescent moon on her flank. "Because I think she looks pretty pissed that you're not obliging her request." he said with a sly smile spreading across his muzzle. "Oh I see what you're doin'." Rainbow Dash said with a slight chuckle. "If you're so interested in this kind of thing, how 'bout you challenge her, I mean you are a god after all right?" she threw some of her trademark pride on the word 'god' to pique Trixie's interest if she was listening. "Hey, that doesn't sound like a bad idea Dashie." Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "Yes, that does sound like it would put her in her place once and for all!" Rarity shouted with a slight maniacal laugh. "I said nothing of the sort, I'm just saying that she's eager to prove herself." Kai said with a stoic expression on his muzzle. "But still, don't ya wanna try it for yourself?" Applejack asked. "Perhaps, but if I do accept, then she'll be biting off more than she can chew, because unlike the lot of you, save your princesses, I cannot die!" Kai said throwing extra emphasis on 'cannot'. "Even so why don't you do it instead of me?" Twilight asked curious about her new friends' extreme caution. "Simple, I could end up eradicating her from existence with a basic spell, not to mention the fact that I have an unlimited amount of magic, my opponent only has a finite supply of it and it just doesn't seem fair." Kai stated matter-of-factly. "But since you really want to see what I'm capable of, then I'll do it." Kai said with a smirk. Meanwhile, outside of the castle Trixie was getting rather impatient that she wasn't getting an answer from Twilight. "Confound it Sparkle, come out here and face me!" Trixie shouted hoping that Twilight could hear her. "I'm sorry Trixie, but I'm not the one dueling you, my new friend is, and let's just say that you're in for a challenge." Twilight said smiling as widely as her face could allow. "Fine then, let's see what this new friend of yours can do against the Great and Powerful Trixie!" Trixie shouted proudly to the heavens. "Ya know she kind of reminds me of the infamous 'Wolf Queen of Solitude' Potema." Kai said whilst observing Trixie's confidence. "Who's Potema? If you don't mind me asking that is." Fluttershy asked. "Oh boy, I will tell you one thing Ms. Fluttershy, if there was a group of people that make horrible leaders of a kingdom, she is one of them." Kai said plainly. "But what makes her so bad?" Princess Celestia asked. "Well for one thing Potema never really cared for her own subjects, she used her son as a pawn to become Empress of Tamriel, she also practiced necromancy, and communed with the most cruel princes of the Daedric pantheon." Kai said holding a foreleg up imitating his normal hand counting on his fingers some of the terrible things that Potema had done throughout her time as the Queen of Solitude. "Egad, that's just horrible!" Luna said completely appalled by what she had just heard. "Why would anypony use their own foal to gain political status, that's just so cruel!" she continued with rage evident in her voice. "I know, I know, but do you know the most ironic thing about this is?" Kai asked with a smug smile on his face. "No, what's that?" everypony in the room asked their newfound friend. "The ironic thing is that Potema's the last remaining heiress of the Septim bloodline, so basically if she were alive today, she would by all rights be Empress, not to mention it was said that when her son was killed, she lost what was left of her humanity and began a hostile takeover bid for all of Tamriel." Kai said with a twisted smile. "How's that for ironic?" he asked his smile not leaving his face as they made their way to the door to meet Trixie. "I have to say that's pretty ironic." Luna said to herself. Shortly after their conversation was over, they all saw Trixie sitting on a rock near the door and yawned. "I see all of you took your sweet time, didn't you?" Trixie said after her yawn. "Yeah so sorry about that, just wanted to get some things off my chest before we started, but enough idle prattle, let's duel!" Kai said excitedly. "I couldn't agree more, but let's lay down the rules before we start." Trixie said. "Name your terms Ms. Trixie." Kai said with a smile eager to hear the rules. "Rule one: you can't kill your opponent, rule two: no outside intervention is permitted, and rule three: no using any extraordinary powers such as shape shifting, or enchanted arms or armor." Trixie said to her opponent. "How does that sound?" she aske. "Sounds completely reasonable to me." Kai said with a shrug. "Then let's duel!" Trixie shouted with enthusiasm for the events to come. The two combatants stood at an equal distance so that they couldn't use anything other than magical attacks. Trixie made the first move by blasting a simple energy bolt at Kai. Kai concentrated and his horn glowed a dark red and a ward spell appeared in front of him blocking Trixie's attack. He lowered his ward and shot a fire ball at Trixie who dodged the projectile as it made an explosive impact on the ground. Trixie struck back by firing three energy bolts in a rapid succession to stagger her opponent, much to her dismay they were all blocked by Kai's ward spell. Kai concentrated once again pointing his horn towards the middle of the ground and a purple bolt of energy erupted in to a ethereal wolf that charged towards Trixie. Trixie was surprised that her opponent knew such a vast array of spells like these. "I should probably ask him where he got all of his knowledge when this is over" Trixie thought to herself after evading and blasting the ethereal creature until it disappeared from sight. "She's tough I'll give her that, but I think that's enough fooling around, time to show her how powerful I truly I am!" Kai thought to himself as he once again charged another summoning spell, but instead of an ethereal wolf, he summoned a Dremora and ordered it to attack Trixie. Trixie almost wanted to stop the duel right then and there, but that would be the coward's way out. Trixie stood her ground and fired a large bolt of energy at the creature and it practically disappeared from existence, but she didn't realize was that the Dremora was a distraction so that Kai could unleash a storm of lightning bolts erupting from his horn hitting Trixie directly in the horn making her unable to use anymore magic. Trixie fell to the ground in defeat, but before she fell into unconsciousness, she shouted "I yield, I yield!" at the top of her lungs hoping her opponent heard her. "In that case, this duel is over, you fared better than I first thought young one, now then let's get you mended up." Kai said as he strode over to Trixie's unconscious form as he charged up a healing spell the would heal her wounds and restore her magic reserves. "Thank you, that was quite entertaining, you really are better than Twilight." Trixie said as she opened her eyes to see her opponent extending a hoof to help her up. "Think nothing of it." Kai said with a warm smile. "Besides, you have lasted far longer than any of the mages I fought back in my dimension." he said still retaining his smile. "May I ask what your name is Great One?" Trixie asked practically kneeling before her opponent. "My name is Kai, and I am the Daedric Prince of Morals." Kai said confidently. "So what does this mean exactly?" Trixie asked in near terror that she may have done something incredibly dumb. "It pretty much means that you just dueled a god from another dimension and lived to tell about it!" Rainbow Dash shouted. "A g-g-od?" Trixie stuttered in both shock and disbelief at the cyan mare's statement. "I-is this true?" she asked trembling in fear. "Yes it's true, but you shouldn't feel afraid of me I'm not a sore loser like some of the others are." Kai said placing a hoof on Trixie's chin and lifting her head to meet his gaze. "What are you going to do with me?" Trixie shuddered as if she was going to be in serious danger. "I'm going to grant you one of my artifacts for your efforts." Kai said with a smile. "I mean you stood your ground against a GOD and lived, you deserve a reward, I give you my ring, may it help you see past the lies of others and bring truth to your life." Kai said whilst placing his ring, The Ring of Insight on her horn. "What does this mean?" Trixie asked a bit confused, but grateful for the gift. "It means that you're one of my master's champions, Mistress." Garrin said enthused at the sight of Trixie receiving one of his master's treasured artifacts. "How long do I stay Champion of the Ring?" Trixie asked. "Until the day you depart from this life." Kai said with a smile on his muzzle. "Then I will guard it with my life!" Trixie proclaimed with joy. "I'm glad you like this arrangement may your life be filled with happiness." Kai said to his new champion. > Chapter 5: Cutie Mark Crusaders Daedra Worshipers > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Three days have passed since Kai and Garrin showed up in Equestria and already they've become the talk of the town! However many residents tend to avoid them (especially Kai). The Mane 6, the princesses, Spike, the CMC, and Trixie love to hang out with them because they value their guests' emotional perception of their world. In the meantime, Kai is sitting in the deserted Castle of the Royal Sisters in the Everfree Forest so that nopony, and nobody comes through the portal with evil intentions. Kai sat on his extremely comfortable throne in the castle and wondered what he should do to with his day rather than just watch the portal like he has been doing for the past three days. "I wonder what those little rambunctious little fillies AppleBloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo are up to today." Kai asked himself wondering what those three fillies are up to. "Maybe I should visit them when they're in school and introduce myself to their classmates, perhaps I could end up getting some new followers in this dimension." Kai said as he tapped his hoof to his chin in thought. "I have been meaning to spread my message that morals are the very foundation of sapient thoughts and actions. Why not teach this lesson to children in a learning environment that is appropriate for their ages?" he asked himself as if he needed to validate his point even further to make it seem like it wasn't a criminal offense. "Well master if I may, I think that teaching the children to be responsible at a young age is important, but honestly the way you're planning this, it sounds like an excuse to get more worshipers." Garrin said noticing his master's motives of converting children to Daedra Worship in a safe manner. Kai furrowed his brow in slight annoyance at his servant's interjection. "I-I don't mean to sound rude or anything master, it's just that you seek to gain more followers than you seek friends, that's all I'm saying." Garrin said while nearly cowering before Kai like a small child. Garrin was expecting Kai to lash out in his traditional fashion (Constantly throwing fireballs until he hits Garrin.), but surprisingly Kai trotted up to his quivering servant and patted him on the head with a smile on his face. "You're right, I mean it sounds completely mental to think that I'm trying to turn children into religious fanatics before they even know what is required of them in society." Kai said with his smile disappearing from his face being replaced by a frown. "I'm glad you told me this before I went to that school half-cocked." he said with his smile returning to his face. "Would you like to come with me, monitor my attitude, shit like that?" he asked Garrin with a smile of pure determination. "Sure, it'll give me something to do instead of sitting around all day." Garrin said throwing his forelegs in the air in happiness. "Ok, ok settle down." Kai says in a joking tone. Meanwhile at Ponyville Elementary, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom were sitting outside wondering what they should do to get their cutie marks. "Ah think we should try ta get our cutie marks in learnin' that fancy magic that we saw Kai usin' 'gainst Trixie." Apple Bloom said recollecting what Kai used to battle Trixie three days ago. "Yeah, or maybe learn how to be one of his 'champions'." Sweetie Belle suggested also recollecting what Kai gave Trixie after the duel. "I mean she got a cool ring as her prize for attempting to beat Kai, maybe we could get something for our efforts too!" Sweetie exclaimed with enthusiasm. "I think that.." Scootaloo started to speak but was interrupted by the local school bullies Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon. "Think what your little blank flanks can get your cutie marks in being worthless losers?" Diamond Tiara said in a mocking tone at the efforts of her classmates. "Yeah, I mean seriously all you three have to show for your efforts are bare, mark-less flanks." Silver Spoon said with words that stung like a bee. "Ya know what Diamond Tiara why don't y'all just..." Apple Bloom paused as she saw the unmistakable purple flames that signified that Kai was teleporting himself to their location. As the flames disappeared, Kai looked over and saw Apple Bloom being confronted by two fillies that looked like two spoiled brats that thought their actions don't have consequences. He smiled approvingly at the yellow filly and nodded his head, which told her that she could drop the rage. "...Why don't y'all just PISSOFF and leave us alone!" Apple Bloom shouted at the top of her lungs as if this was the last sentence she would ever utter. Both Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were completely shocked to hear that kind of language from the sister of Applejack. "Who taught you that kind of language?" Silver Spoon asked still completely blown away from the statement from a few moments ago. "It sounds so, so, vulgar, and hurtful." the gray filly said with tears welling up in her eyes. Kai saw the display that Apple Bloom put on, and he was impressed, but he felt sorry for the fillies that it was directed towards. He trotted a little closer to the small group making himself known to Apple Bloom,Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle, but Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon didn't even hear him approach. Kai stopped just behind the two sad fillies, his shadow loomed over them like a building. "You know you should've expected this kind of thing to happen." Kai stated matter-of-factly. "You can't just say those kinds of things without getting negative repercussions in return, because with every choice you make there are both positive and negative consequences that follow." he continued to explain to the fillies before him in a gentle, yet fatherly tone. "I want the two of you to turn around and face me so you can see who is lecturing you on the errors of your choices." he calmly stated. The two fillies turn around and see a pale alicorn stallion with reptilian hazel eyes and light brown mane standing in front of them. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon both hung their heads in sorrow and regret as they saw who it was and they had the distinct impression that he was going to punish them, but instead he placed his wings on their chins lifting them to his eye level. They stared directly into his father-like gaze and they saw all of the pain and torment they had inflicted upon their classmates and they felt the exact same as their victims this finally caused tears to adorn their faces. "Now you know how it feels to be hurt on the inside as well as the outside, and you rightfully bear the blame, but you have the power to change that all you have to do is ask for forgiveness and you'll change for the better." he said in a warm, calming tone that made the fillies in front of him to come closer to hug him. Kai sensed their intentions and returned the embrace. Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo all stood in awe of the sight of the two bullies being hugged by the alicorn that lectured them into repentance. "Now I believe you two have something you'd like to say to the three fillies behind you?" he asked looking to the CMC standing behind them. Both fillies nodded wiping the tears from their eyes and taking a deep breath before speaking. "We're very sorry for all of the trouble we've caused you can ever forgive us for our foolishness." they said simultaneously waiting for a reply from their classmates. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo huddled together to decide whether to forgive Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon for their cruelty from over the years. "Do ya think we should forgive 'em?" Apple Bloom asked her friends. "I think that we should, I mean did you see looks on their faces? They totally regret what they've done. Rainbow Dash always told me that the eyes and faces are linked to the way somepony truly feels and that's totally not awesome to hurt another's feelings, despite their wrongdoings." Scootaloo said remembering what her honorary big sister had told her about how teasing others is not a good thing to do to anypony. "I agree with Scoots on this one Apple Bloom, just look into their eyes and you can see that they regret what they've put us through." Sweetie Belle said looking to Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon with a slightly saddened expression on her face. "Alright then it's decided then, we forgive them no if's, and's, or but's 'bout it right?" Apple Bloom asked with her two friends nodding in response. The three fillies broke their huddle and turned to face their classmates. "We forgive you." the three fillies said and Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon's frowns slowly became smiles. The three fillies in front of them motioned them to come closer to them and without a word they engaged in a group hug. The sight of seeing these children learning from him made Kai smile. He started to her the sound of a bell ringing in the distance. He cleared his throat to grab their attention. "Not to spoil the mood, but I believe you five need to get to class before you get into trouble." he said with a chuckle. "Aren't ya gonna come with us or something?" Apple Bloom asked. "'Cause ya taught us how to forgive and forget, why don't ya teach the rest of the class that kind of lesson?" she continued to ask as if she somehow knew why he was there. "Yeah and maybe we could spread those teaching all across Equestria!" Diamond Tiara exclaimed with a new found passion. "Yeah, Cutie Mark Crusaders Moral Lesson Spreaders!" The three fillies shouted with joy. Both Kai and Garrin smiled at the idea. "Hey master, why don't they call themselves 'Cutie Mark Crusaders Daedra Worshippers'?" Garrin said with a chuckle. Garrin may have been joking, but Kai's eyes widened at Garrin's statement. Garrin turned his head only to see his master's smiling face. "Me and my big mouth" Garrin thought to himself. Kai looked to Garrin "I heard that, and I appreciate your input." he said with a smile. "Hey girls, how about CMC Daedra Worshipers?" Kai asked the fillies who looked at him in complete confusion. "What I meant was, you could become my loyal disciples." he said in order to clear up any confusion. "What's a disciple exactly?" Scootaloo asked. "It means 'follower' Scootaloo." Silver Spoon said with a smile. "Yes, that's right. So how 'bout it you five become my first official devotees and you can help me spread my message throughout Equestria?" Kai asked beaming with joy. "Yeah let's do it!" the five fillies exclaimed at the tops of their lungs. "Great, but first you'll need these robes that my master's worshipers in Tamriel wear so others know who you're loyal to from now until the end of time." Garrin stated with a smile while conjuring five black and white cloaks with Kai's cutie mark on them. "We look so awesome!" Scootaloo said with a joyful squeak when she saw her friends in their new attire. "Damn right we do!" Sweetie Belle said with a wide grin. "So what's next Master?" she asked keeping her grin. "First we need to educate the other fillies and colts in your class, besides, the best devotees always start when they're young." Kai said with a mischievous smile creeping across his face. > Chapter 6: Cheerilee's Wrath > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After the establishment of a new friendship between Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon, and the CMC, and initiating a new religion, they made their way to their school with their new deity in tow. Their purpose was to recruit the other fillies and colts in Ponyville Elementary to get more followers in a cost effective manner. As the group neared the red painted school house the five fillies were still wearing their new robes with pride and wanted to showcase them to their classmates, but they needed to convince one mare that was possibly more strict than their families; their teacher, Ms. Cheerilee. "This is going to be so cool!" Silver Spoon practically squealed with enthusiasm. "I mean we're really the poster fillies for Kai's new religious movement and we're going to get our other classmates in on this too, I just can't wait!" she continued to say her smile never fading. "Yeah I'm excited too Silver, but.." Sweetie Belle paused with a twinge of fear becoming evident in her eyes. "But what Sweetie?" Silver Spoon asked her new friend with a hint of curiosity. "But what'll Ms. Cheerilee think if we just trot up to school with these kickass new robes and start talking about our new religion?" Sweetie asked. "She'll flip her lid if we do that!" Sweetie shouted with tears starting to stream down her face. "Don't cry Sweetie Belle, everything's going to be just fine we all know that Ms. Cheerilee is one of the most accepting mares in all of Equestria." Diamond Tiara said while she wiped away Sweetie Belle's tears with her hoof and giving her a sincere smile. "You just need to have hope in this, or nothing good will come from it." Diamond Tiara said pulling Sweetie Belle in for a hug which Sweetie Belle accepted. "Okay, I'll give it a try." Sweetie Belle said with a sniffle. "But what do we do if she tells our families what we're up to?" she asked. "Then we'll take it as a sign that we're making some amount of progress." Scootaloo said with a reassuring smile. "If our families scold us, we need to remember what Kai told us about accepting another's opinion without judging them before they've taken time to think about what we've told them." she said keeping her smile plastered on her muzzle. "Scoots is right Sweetie, Ah mean they might not accept it at first, but we just need to give 'em some time to process this new information." Apple Bloom said. "So let's go show 'em what Kai has to offer for all Equestria!" she exclaimed with pride. "Remember my little devotees, too much pride in one thing can blind you to the truth, so don't get overconfident otherwise our efforts will be doomed before we even had a chance." Kai said with a fatherly tone. "But you have the right idea about allowing them to have their opinions before they make their decisions, instead of just outright calling them heretics and wishing harm to them without giving them a say in the matter." Kai said with a proud smile on his muzzle congratulating his new followers on their maturity. After their little pep talk, they continued to make their way towards the school house. The five fillies smiled when they noticed their teacher standing at the door doing a head count of her students as they entered the building. "Are my eyes deceiving me, or am I seeing Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon being friendly to Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo?" Ms. Cheerilee thought to herself. Cheerilee had always known Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon to be bullies to their classmates, but to see them enjoying the company of the CMC made her heart skip a beat. "Good mornin' Ms. Cheerilee." Apple Bloom said happily. The little yellow filly's greeting snapped the purple mare back to reality as she looked down at the five fillies in front of her. "Good morning girls." Cheerilee said with a smile, but her smile faded as she noticed the robes they were wearing. "Girls, what in the world are you wearing?" she asked arching an eyebrow at the fillies. "Well Ms. Cheerilee, we received these robes as a testament to our new deity." Diamond Tiara said simply. "I see, and what is this deity's name?" Cheerilee asked with curiosity in her voice. "Do you remember that party three days ago?" Sweetie Belle asked in response to her teacher's question. "Yes, but what does that have to do with this new deity of yours?" Cheerilee said with a slight hint of irritation in her voice. "Well he's the alicorn stallion that was telling all of those stories about his dimension, and he taught Silver Spoon and I a valuable lesson about how every choice has both positive and negative consequences and we should be mindful of our actions." Diamond Tiara said. "Yeah, then we thought that the CMC could get their cutie marks in being 'Daedra' worshippers, and we also volunteered to help them in any way we could and then Kai himself gave us these really cool robes as a sign that he's pleased with our decision to serve him from now until the end of time." Silver Spoon added to further support her friend's claim. "Well that's certainly a very mature decision you five made, but until I see this 'Kai' in person I don't believe you." Cheerilee said with a frown on her muzzle. "We kind of knew ya wouldn't believe us Ms. Cheerilee, so that's why he came with us to..." Apple Bloom was interrupted by her teacher's scolding glare which made the yellow filly nearly start crying. "I'm going to inform your families about this, and they'll decide what to do with you now get to your seats!" Cheerilee nearly hissed through gritted teeth with anger clearly in her voice. The school day was going smoothly despite the conversation that was made earlier in the morning, the five fillies were sentenced to detention during recess, but they didn't take any sort of offense to their teacher's actions as they knew Kai would come to settle this personally. "What are you five doing?!" Cheerilee shouted angrily at the fillies. The fillies said nothing as they returned to their seats. "That's better, now..." Cheerilee was interrupted by a burst of purple flames outside the schoolhouse. "Oh what is it now?" Cheerilee rhetorically asked. Her answer came in the form of the rest of her students staring in awe of the sight of an alicorn stallion emerging from the burst of purple flames. Cheerilee's eyes narrowed at Kai as she saw him emerge and make his way towards the schoolhouse. "Stop right where you are!" Cheerilee shouted loudly at Kai. Kai clearly heard her, but he was testing her to see if she was worthy of a very special honor that only he can bestow. Cheerilee smiled as she saw Kai stop in front of her, but then he just smirked and walked past her, this infuriated the purple mare beyond belief and she decided to do something most would consider to be very unwise, unless you were suicidal, she bucked Kai right in his 'family jewels'. "Now listen, and listen good, I don't care what those five fillies say, I will not allow you to corrupt their minds with your nonsense!" Cheerilee said with a wrathful tone. "If you think that's going to be enough to put me down, you've got another thing coming, Ms. Cheerilee." Kai said with a chuckle completely disregarding the fact he just got kicked right in the crotch. Cheerilee was terrified of this stallion now, not only because he was completely unaffected by what she had just done to him, but also the fact that he already knew who she was despite knowing nothing about her appearance, only her name. "How do you know my name?! Answer me!" Cheerilee shouted while stomping her hoof down in a demanding fashion. "I know you thanks to my five little devotees that are currently sitting inside." Kai said with a smile. "Before you assume anything, they didn't leave, I can see, feel, and hear everything my followers can so I can assist them when I need to." he said to keep the already enraged teacher in front of him. "Also your contempt for me is foolishly misplaced." he said nearly emotionlessly. "My feelings misplaced?!" Cheerilee cackled like a mad mare. "Do you think I'm stupid or something?" She asked with a stare that shouted Choose your next words extremely carefully. "No I don't think you're stupid, I just think you have an attitude problem, nothing more." Kai said gently closing his eyes. "Also, I admire your commitment to your students, you're willing to stand in the way of a deity that could easily kill you, and yet here you stand not fearing for your safety, but that of your students, you're definitely worthy of my favor." Kai said as he kept his eyes closed as he searched through Cheerilee's mind seeing that she lives for her students and would give her life just for them. "Worthy of what now?" Cheerilee asked after Kai finished speaking. "What's a simple mare like me worthy of?" She said as her eyes were welling up with tears. "Why to be one of my champions of course, more specifically, I want you to be my champion of Wrath." Kai said with a sincere smile while he perked Cheerilee's head up. "So what do ya say, will you, Cheerilee, take your rightful place as my champion?" he asked with pride in his words. Cheerilee was absolutely speechless, the fact that she kicked a deity, and had just asked her if she would be his champion had sent her mind into overload and she fainted. Moments later she found herself inside of her classroom filled with her students with worried looks on their faces. "was it all a dream?" Cheerilee thought to herself. "Nope it was no dream, that actually happened." Kai said with a smile. "You can hear my thoughts?" she blurted. "Wait of course you can and to answer your question of me being your champion..." she paused. "Yes?" Kai asked in a sing-song like tone. "I accept this title with honor!" Cheerilee exclaimed with pride and happiness. Her entire class cheered for their teacher's acceptance of her new title as they were all wearing the same garb Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon, and the CMC were wearing. "Wait a second, how did they, oh you know buck it, it doesn't matter." she said to herself. "Alright now, take my sword Soul Snare and take your place as my champion." Kai said as his horn glowed and a black katana materialized in front of her. Cheerilee was nervous at first, but she shook it off and placed a hoof on the hilt and her entire body glowed a shade of violet-blue as a sign that the sword accepted her as its new wielder. "This feels amazing!" Cheerilee shouted with glee at the tingling feeling she was getting from her new sword resting in her hoof. "Two down, one to go" Kai said to himself as he looked towards Canterlot Castle because he has already chosen his final champion, but little does he know that she secretly wants the honor of being with him. > Chapter 7: Visit to Canterlot > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After inducting Ms. Cheerilee into his circle of champions, and earning the loyalty of her students, Kai went to the Mane 6 to try to convert them on the same day, but was met with mixed results. The results being: Rarity joining because of the glorious apparel, Applejack said yes because Kai was a kind, and honest pony that she could trust with her secrets. She also let her sister stay in the cult, Pinkie Pie joined because Kai was really fun to hang around, Fluttershy was too scared to even utter a response, Rainbow Dash joined because of Kai's deference for loyalty over brutality, and Twilight joined as well because he had a friend in the Daedric pantheon that had a wealth of information, and then she wrote a letter to Princess Celestia detailing what Kai has been up to ever since his party three days ago. All Kai could think of doing at this point was reconstructing the castle in the Everfree Forest to become the temple for his congregation to gather for prayer, advice, or just to spend some time with Kai if they didn't have anything better to do. "Things are really looking up for us Garrin." Kai said with a smile. "We haven't been here for a week and we already had a strong foothold in this dimension in terms of worshippers! Never in my wildest dreams did I think that the natives of this dimension would be so accepting of us despite what we're supposed to look like!" Kai continued to say with glee. "Indeed master, it has been a very eventful few days, but what's next in your grand scheme?" Garrin asked with an arched eyebrow genuinely curious of his master's future plans for Equestria. "I don't know yet, but in the mean time let's gather our new worshippers and tell them that we must begin the construction of our temple." Kai said with determination. Garrin needed no further instructions as he disappeared in a flash of red light and sought out Trixie, Cherilee, the foals in Cheerilee's class, Pinkie, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash to bring them Kai's latest decree. Garrin found himself on the hill near Ponyville Elementary where Ms. Cheerilee and her students were proceeding with the day's lessons. Garrin teleported himself into the classroom startling the new Champion of Wrath, but then her fear turned into a welcoming grin. "What does our master require of us Garrin?" Cheerilee asked with a proud smile adorning her muzzle. "Our master requires you and your class to go to the entrance of the Everfree Forest and wait for further instructions." Garrin said in a serious tone emphasizing that this was a direct order that was to never be questioned. "Consider it done." Cheerilee said with a smile. She looked over Garrin's shoulder and addressed her class. "Class is dismissed due to Lord Kai's decree." All of the foals in the room roared with cheer as their teacher has given them permission to head to the Everfree, but told Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon, and the CMC to find Pinkie, Rarity,Rainbow Dash, and Twilight to help Garrin take less time to complete his task. "Good, that's settled, now to find the Champion of Insight." Garrin said as he disappeared from the classroom. Garrin knew how to find Trixie the problem was that she was in Manehattan doing a show and Garrin tried to contact her through telepathy, but she wasn't able to focus on him. (Essentially she didn't answer the phone and it went to voice mail.) After a good five attempts to telepathically contact Trixie, Garrin went to Manehattan to tell her himself. With an irritated sigh Garrin disappeared in a burst of purple-blue flames and reappeared in Trixie's trailer and found her on her bed asleep. Taking matters into his own hooves he used magic to levitate Trixie on to his back and teleport them both back to the entrance to the Everfree Forest where Kai and all of his other followers and newly anointed champion all gathered to hear Kai's new decree, however they still needed to wake Trixie from her nap. Garrin's answer was to just kiss her on the lips, the crowd laughed as Trixie kicked Garrin in the face shortly after he tried to kiss her. "Now that you're awake Trixie we can begin." Kai said as his laughing fit died down and turned to the crowd before him. "I've called you all here today to announce that we'll be building our new temple in this forest in that abandoned castle since it has most of the structural components still intact, all we'll need to do is work together to fix it up to suit our purposes." Kai said with an encouraging smile. The crowd cheered as they knew that they were going to work hard alongside their master. "Also after we're done I'm planning a visit to Canterlot, so until I return from my trip, my champions are in charge, is that clear?" he asked in a father-like tone that resonated with crowd uttering the words "Yes master" simultaneously. "Good, now let's get to building." Kai said as he levitated hard hats to his followers. After what felt like years of work, but compressed into only three days, due to Kai's ability to distort the laws of space and time, they finished their temple and began putting on the finishing touch, moving the Oblivion Gate to the temple. It was a challenge due to the fact that nopony, except Kai and Garrin knew how to move such a portal without disrupting the magical link that the portal had to the Isles of Perception and Equestria, but after nearly two-and half hours, they managed to move the portal into the temple with no malfunctions to the magical flow. Kai wiped the sweat from his brow with a hoof and looked to his loyal followers with a smile. "I'm glad we managed such a massive project in less than what I originally expected, now this temple is your sanctuary for new potential followers, and home away from home." The crowd before him sat at the enormous dining room table all cheered in agreement and appreciation at their master's compliment. "I'll be leaving for Canterlot tomorrow morning and I hope you'll look to these fine mares for guidance in my absence." Kai said with a reassuring tone in his voice. All of his followers nodded in agreement and they returned to their platters of food and enjoyed their celebration as if it was the end of the world. All of Kai's followers stayed at the temple until the next morning to bid their master farewell. Kai and Garrin both thanked their new found friends and followers for their best wishes and told them to say 'hello' to Celestia and Luna for them. The both of them rolled their eyes and said that they would give them their regards when they arrived. After a half-hour of packing Kai put his most treasured artifact; the Amulet of Truth, around his neck and made sure that they packed a change of clothes, the two Daedra left their temple in a burst of purple-blue flame. Meanwhile in Canterlot Castle, both Luna and Celestia were both getting out of bed to lower the moon and raise the sun to start their day. After a hearty breakfast the two of them went to the throne room to start hearing the various request, complaints, and other tedious matters their subjects had for them, but little did they know that over the next week things would start getting very interesting. After hours of listening to menial, petty requests and complaints, the two cosmic alicorns were in Celestia's study eating their lunches in peace, until Luna's curiosity got the better of her. "Will they ever visit us Tia?" Luna asked Celestia with a sorrowful expression on her face. "They'll come Lulu, just be patient." Celestia said warmly hoping to get Luna to calm down. "Besides they've probably been busy with something that demands their full attention." she continued to say in her calm demeanor. "Perhaps you're right, but I wish they'd visit us, it would be a nice change of pace for us seeing as we're both up to our manes in these stuck up nobles." Luna said with a grimace at how stuck up the nobles were with such petty matters such as why the local café shouldn't serve coffee as a beverage. "I know what you mean, but even if they do arrive sometime today I doubt they'll be able to..." Celestia was interrupted by a flash of purple-blue flames just outside the door and hearing two distinct voices. "... find us?" Celestia finished with a confused look on her face. (Outside Celestia's study) 2 minutes prior "Hey Garrin, did we bring everything, or do we have to go back for something?" Kai asked while looking through his suitcase for any missing items. "I believe we brought everything master, did forget something?" Garrin said arching his eyebrow at his master's question. "No, wait it's right here, never mind." Kai said remembering that he had the Amulet of Truth on his neck the whole time. "Oh very good sir, but where are our gracious hosts at?" Garrin asked rhetorically with a smile on his face. "I think we should knock first." Kai said matter-of-factly. The two of them approached the door and knocked twice. (Celestia's study) Present Time "Oh my gosh Tia they're really here!" Luna practically squealed with joy. "I can't wait to show them around and spend some time with them!" She continued to say while adding a slight purr in her voice. "Easy there Lulu, don't get so ahead of yourself, you might end up embarrassing yourself in front of him." Celestia said with a calm smile. "You don't want to give him the wrong idea about you, now do you?" She asked with a slight chuckle that caused Luna to blush. "Knock, knock, anypony home?" Kai asked rhetorically. Kai laughed at his question when he realized that his little joke was too overused, but appropriate. In that instant he got an idea, he looked to Garrin and he nodded. "Hey Garrin maybe we should leave and come back later." Kai said with an exaggerated tone. "Of course master." Garrin said playing along with Kai's mental game for the princesses. Luna couldn't stand it any longer, so she rushed over to the door expecting to chase her guests down the hall only to come face to face with them. Kai smiled and laughed at the expression on Luna's embarrassed face. "Did you really think I'd leave here without seeing either one of you?" He said with after his laughing fit was ending. "Y-you never left, but why did you-" Luna was interrupted by Kai. "Trick you? Simple, it was well worth seeing your face when you found out that we never left." Kai finished Luna's sentence while adding his reason for deceiving her. "I must say Lulu, I've never seen you act that way since your return." Celestia stated matter-of-factly. Luna's response was an annoyed glare at her sister for making her blush in front of their guests. "Stop it Tia!" Luna said in an annoyed tone. She looked back to Kai and Garrin who were busy staring at the stained glass windows of the many events that have made enormous impacts on Equestria's history, but there wasn't a window that depicted his arrival. "What's bothering you Kai?" she asked seeing the disturbed look upon his muzzle. "I guess you could say that princess Luna, I mean it seems that these windows show huge life changing events, and..." Kai paused to keep himself from having an outburst of jealousy. "... and I don't see my arrival amongst these events, why is that?" Kai asked arching an eyebrow at the lunar princess hoping she would have the answer to his question. "Well it's probably because not all of Equestria knows about you, or maybe it's because of the form you've taken." Luna said with certainty. "Maybe if you show us your true form maybe you'll take your place amongst these historical events." she said while putting a reassuring hoof on to his shoulder. "Maybe, but I'm not sure if your people are ready for that yet." Kai said with certainty. " Anyway, I didn't come all this way just to complain about my place in your realm's history, I'm here to visit my two most overworked friends." He said with a cheerful smile. " so what's new with you two?" he asked. "Oh, nothing's really new for us, just nobles coming here to gripe and complain, meetings with various diplomats from other lands, you the usual for us." Celestia responded with a small frown. "What's new with you Kai? We haven't heard much from you lately, or at all, actually." Celestia said with her curiosity piqued. "Well, I've been very busy gathering some new followers to worship me as their god and teacher of moral lessons, I have acquired a new champion, and just most recently we've converted the castle that was partially destroyed by Nightmare Moon into our temple for both to worship me, and to give shelter to weary travelers and new possible members to our slowly growing family." Kai said recapping all of the things he has done over the past week. "That's quite a few accomplishments you've made, Kai and in less than a month too!" Luna said with a shocked expression on her face. "How did you do it?" she asked. "My Lord recruited some of the Elements of Harmony, the children of Ponyville, and their teacher Ms. Cheerilee as the champion of Wrath." Garrin said with a smile. "Not to mention the fact that my Lord loves to participate in the very tasks he sets up for his faithful to complete for him just for the fun of it." he continued to elaborate. "Not to mention the fact that I can distort the laws of physics at any time I wish." Kai said with a mischievous grin. "Oh really, is that so?" Celestia asked returning Kai's grin. "Champion of Wrath?" Celestia asked arching an eyebrow. "This champion is the dispenser of justice, the guardian of the faithful, and has unwavering conviction in the presence of evil." Kai explained. "If you're next question is 'Why choose Ms. Cheerilee?' then it's because she has unwavering conviction, she'll defend her students from threatening figures, and she is a good fighter in both physical and mental aspects." he continued. "I mentioned physical and mental because not only does this champion have to be a strong fighter, but they must possess an even stronger mind so they can't be corrupted by any of the other Daedric Princes' influences." he said with a slight grimace as he knew all too well what happens to weak minded champions. Just as Celestia was going to ask another question she realized that her break with Luna was going to end in five minutes and she and Luna had to return to their thrones to listen to the menial complaints of the nobles for the next four hours. How these two managed to endure the griping and bitching of the snooty nobles without completely lashing out against them for making such stupid and stuck up requests, or as they called them, excuses. "I'm so sorry that we must cut our reunion with short Kai, but as you know, duty calls." Celestia said with regret in her voice. "I'll ask one of the servants to escort you back to the train station." she said with a slight display of anger in her voice towards the nobles that were rude enough to almost never give her, or Luna a break. "Now just you wait a minute here Princess, I didn't pack a week's worth of clothes just to be sent back to Ponyville before dinner, I'm staying here and there's literally nothing you can do to stop me!" Kai exclaimed with a smile. "I also think that I need to have a chat with these nobles to give them the message that you and Luna are sick and tired of their dumb, hair-brained excuses that aren't worth listening to!" he continued to shout his voice echoing through the halls of the castle causing some of the guards to quake in their boots, and others to cheer in agreement with Kai's small speech of both might and displeasure for mundane requests and idiots that think that wealth is more precious than a life. "Oh my goodness, I never thought I see the day that somepony would come along to stick up for my sister and me, we are both in your debt Kai, please stay here and help us give these nobles a piece of our minds as a token of our gratitude!" Luna said as she and Celestia heard sound of the cheering subside and Kai's face still holding his confident smile. "We'll be more than happy to assist you, and maybe while I'm here I can look for my final champion, the Champion of Truth." Kai said with his smile never seeming to fade from his visage. "Not to mention, I've been looking for a suitable time to come and visit you two ever since we met at the party about a week ago." he said still smiling at the two princesses. "Great, I'll have my servants take your luggage to your room, then after we're done with these requests in court, we'll show you to your room, then we'll eat dinner. How does that sound?" Luna said with all of her enthusiasm. "That sounds perfect Luna, now let's go greet the 'nobles'." Kai said while throwing his most snooty voice on to the word 'noble'. That very statement got both princesses to laugh as if it was their first time hearing a comedic insult. Canterlot Throne room The nobles of Canterlot were all standing in an extremely long line to essentially annoy their princesses with petty concerns, but little did they know that this time their princesses had somepony else there with them sitting on a throne of his own. Kai had his throne positioned in between Celestia and Luna's thrones so he could be seen by the nobles as well. One noble by the name of Upper Crust came in to make a complaint. "Your majesties, I have to ask why I haven't received my pre-ordered tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala, care to explain?" Upper Crust looked at her rulers as if she was in charge of them instead of the other way around. Celestia was about to speak, but Kai raised a hoof to stop her, he cleared his throat catching Upper Crust's attention. "You dare to demand an explanation to such a petty request?" Kai asked with anger being disguised as curiosity. "If you think that you're in charge here, then might I say that you have your head wedged so far up your ass that you can't even see who you're even speaking to, so you better check yourself before you wreck yourself." he said as he glared at the snooty mare causing her to nearly leave the castle. However, Upper Crust stared at this new stranger for a few moments, and realized that he was right, she had no right to treat her rulers this way, she turned back to Celestia and Luna and apologized for her rude behavior. The royal sisters accepted her apology and she left with a grateful smile on her muzzle. "How did you do that?" Celestia asked. "I did what I thought right, and that was give you two some authority back because from what I've been hearing from the two of you it seems that your own citizens don't have a smidgen of respect for you even after all that you've done for them, they still think you're nothing, that you're not even fit to rule." Kai said his voice dripping with disdain. "What my Lord means to say is that, you're both the rulers of Equestria and you should start acting like it, and to not let these rich, spoiled aristocrats tell you what to do." Garrin said to help enlighten Celestia and Luna to Kai's statement from a few seconds ago. "Yes, that's exactly what I meant thank you Garrin." Kai said looking to Garrin for his translation of his master's words. "Not at all master, I'm just here to help." Garrin said acknowledging his master's compliment. "Oh, I didn't realize how soft we were until you pointed it out to us, but why insult Upper Crust?" Celestia said with her eyes widening at the realization that Kai did speak the truth about her being treated unfairly by her own citizens. "That was to show you how to swallow your pride and use some of your bottled up anger in a constructive way as well as take charge of the situation at hoof." Kai explained. "Besides if you two don't nopony will." he stated in a slightly dark tone. Over the next few hours of worthless complaints and mundane requests, both Luna and Celestia felt like a tremendous weight was removed from their shoulders when they finally grew some backbone and told the stuck-up nobles come back to them when they have something truly important to complain about, otherwise get out of the throne room. "I'm very proud of both of you." Kai said with a genuine smile on his face. "In fact, the both of you put my advice into action a lot faster than I first believed." He continued to say with a cheerful smile. " We thank you for giving us the courage to say what we really think as well as reminding us that we are the rulers of Equestria and need to treated as such!" Luna said nearly jumping from her throne with glee. " As much as I hate to admit it, I feel like I have put those stupid nobles in their place after decades of them as you put it 'brownosing' to get what they wanted." Celestia said somewhat unnerved by her actions over the last few hours. " I'm glad that you're back where you need to be as well." Garrin said with a smile. " Now isn't it time for dinner?" He asked when he was rudely interrupted by his stomach growling at him. All four of them laughed at the comical irony, that Garrin hit the nail right on the head about dinner and they left for the dining hall. After the enormous banquet of a dinner they had, Kai and Garrin followed one of Luna's thestrals to their room in the castle to retire for the night. "See you two in the morning." Kai said as he left his hosts to their own devices for the night. > Chapter 8: Visit to Canterlot (part 2) > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After a well deserved rest from a long, but wonderful time of spending time with the two royal sisters, Kai and Garrin started to stir from their slumber. Kai felt the warmth of Celestia's sun on his fur slowly waking him up. Kai yawned and rubbed the sleep from his eyes, then he stretched his front legs earning a satisfying pop as he did so. "Fuck me, I never thought I could be this sleepy from spending only one day with Luna and Celestia, but overall I slept very well." Kai said as he looked toward Garrin who was still asleep on the sofa in their guest room at the castle. "I wonder what I should wear today?" Kai thought to himself as he walked over to the trunk that held all of his clothes. As Kai opened the trunk a foul stench entered his nostrils causing him to scrunch up his muzzle in disgust. "Holy Oblivion, I smell awful, I need a shower, then I can get dressed." He said as he made his way to the bathroom. After a nice relaxing shower Kai went back to the trunk and fished out an outfit that consisted of his dovah mail, medium weight plate armor with matching grieves, and white cloak to go on top. Satisfied with his selections, Kai quietly opened the door and closed it gently so he didn't wake his companion. As Kai traversed the halls of Canterlot Castle he noticed that there was a white unicorn stallion with a blonde mane and tail walking towards him with an irritated expression on his face. "I can't believe that my own aunts refuse to have breakfast with me!" Blueblood said in exasperation. What the spoiled stallion didn't know was that his aunts' guest was heading straight towards him, and in a fit of frustration, he shot a bolt of magic down the hall, and a few seconds later the very same bolt of magic came hurtling back towards him. Blueblood couldn't cast a shield spell fast enough to deflect the bolt, and the bolt hit him square in the face, making the prince scream like a filly! ( Shortly before Blueblood shoots a bolt of magic) Kai was enjoying his leisurely stroll down one of the hallways of Canterlot Castle, and then he heard the same complaining stallion scream in frustration, and heard the distinct sound of magic being charged. Mere seconds later, a bolt of light cerulean magic came flying towards him. Kai noticed the bolt and instead of dodging it he casted a reflection ward spell and the spell bounced off of the ward and went hurtling back towards it's caster. (Present Time) "You made the sound of a little filly, no bits." Kai said with a serious expression on his muzzle. This left the spoiled prince in a state of shock, and anger as the stranger who not only reflected his spell back at him, but he also had the gall to insult him. "How dare you insult and assault the Prince of Equestria, you filthy vermin!" Blueblood spat in anger at Kai, not knowing that this pony could very well send him flying down the cliff screaming for his mommy. "How dare you a puny, insignificant, and self absorbed mortal insult a being beyond all of your comprehension, and the esteemed guest of both of your aunts!" Kai said with his voice slightly distorting. "Give me one good reason for me not to smite you where you stand?" He continued with his wings flared to their full extension and his eyes turning as dark as the void of space. "B-because, you want to leave a good impression on my aunts before you leave," Blueblood stuttered in pure fear of being casted into oblivion. "Yes, that is a good reason, and you're right, I do want to leave on good terms with them, now get out of my sight weakling!" Kai said with a sinister grin on his face. "And next time you might want to actually grow a pair, before you try to challenge me." He said as Blueblood was running down the hall and back to his quarters. (Castle dining room, during Kai's encounter with Blueblood) Celestia and Luna were feeling somewhat bad for not telling their honored guest about their spoiled, arrogant brat of a nephew, but quickly shrugged it off knowing that Kai would probably teach Blueblood a lesson in respect. "Tia, don't you think that we should intervene, before Kai does something to hurt our idiot of a nephew?" Luna asked with a look of worry on her face. "Relax, Lulu, Kai won't kill Blueblood, he'll just put him in his place, and Blueblood will just run back to his room." Celestia said while placed a wing around her sister. The two royal sisters just sat in silence waiting for the door to open up again. (Dining room, Present time) "Sorry you two had to hear my little outburst, but seriously, who does he think he is to insult a Daedric prince, like there aren't any consequences?" Kai said with conviction. "Anyway, I won't let that little incident ruin my day, so what's up with you guys?" He said looking at his hosts with a sincere smile. A moment of silence passed until Celestia broke it by clearing her throat to speak. "Our morning started pretty nicely until Blueblood wanted to as you say "bitch and moan" about all of his mundane concerns." Celestia said with a slight pout. "That was until we remembered what you taught us yesterday, and now we get to enjoy the rest of the day with you." Celestia said in addition to her previous statement. Kai sat there with a smile on his face, "I'm looking forward to spending the day with you guys too. So what's for breakfast today?" He asked nonchalantly. As if on cue, a waiter came to take their orders for breakfast. The waiter was a mare with a trottingham accent. She had a pale cream colored coat, a platinum blonde mane and tail, pale scarlet eyes, and a cutie mark of a pen and pad of paper. "Good morning your majesties, my name is Scarlet Pen, I'll be your waiter this morning. What would you like for breakfast?" Scarlet Pen asked in a polite tone. "I'll have the triple pancake platter with a side of strawberries, and Earl-Grey tea." Celestia said with a smile. "Alright, and for you Princess Luna?" Scarlet Pen asked as she finished writing Celestia's breakfast order. "I will take the same thing with blackberries, and black coffee." Luna stated calmly. "Okay, and what about you good sir?" Scarlet Pen asked Kai as she finished writing Luna's order. "I'll take some waffles, with a side of hash browns, and apple juice." Kai said politely. "I know you probably don't hear this very often, but thanks for being patient with us this morning Ms. Pen." Kai said with a sincere smile. "You're welcome your majesties, it's an honor serving you." Scarlet said with a bow. "I'll be right back with your orders in a little bit." Scarlet said as she trotted towards the kitchen. "What's bothering you Kai?" Luna asked with a concerned look on her face. "Oh, it's nothing you guys need to worry about. I'm just feeling a little bit homesick, that's all." Kai said with a sad smile. "I miss my Daedric brethren for two reasons: One, some are just fun to hang out with, and two, they're really like the brothers and sisters I've never had." Kai explained to his hosts. "Maybe they'll come here for you and possibly, remain here forever." Celestia said with a hopeful smile. "I mean, what's the worst thing that could happen?" Celestia asked in a dismissive fashion. "Oh, I don't know, how about hostile takeovers, hoards of Dremora that stretch on forever, and millions of dead, innocent civilians?" Kai stated grimly. "Would that really happen if they came here?" Luna asked with a fearful look. "Maybe for some, but not all of them." Kai said while shrugging his shoulders. After that interesting exchange the beautiful waitress, Scarlet Pen had a large serving tray with breakfast orders for the royals at the table. "Sorry to interrupt, but I have your orders ready for you to eat and continue your day, your majesties." The mare said with a proud smile on her muzzle. "Thank you Scarlet, and have a pleasant day." Celestia said to the waitress with her trademark motherly smile. "That's enough moping for one morning, let's eat!" Luna shouted with enthusiasm as she stared at her food with a look of hunger. "I agree, I'm hungry, so let's eat." Kai said as he used his magic to levitate his knife and fork, and began carving away at his food. (After breakfast) "That was the best breakfast I've ever had!" Kai said patting his stomach. "I agree, I still can't believe you ate all of yours, and I haven't finished my coffee." Luna said as she levitated her coffee mug in her magic next to her. "As interesting as that was, what are you planning on doing for the rest of the day Kai?" Celestia asked arching her eyebrow in curiosity as to what her guest was going to be doing for remainder of the day. "I'll probably be exploring the city, I mean, I've never seen it, since I just teleported to the castle, and spent the evening here." Kai said as he used one of his wings as a makeshift hand to help him ponder his thoughts. "Really?" Celestia asked with a mischievous smirk on her face. "Yeah, and maybe screw around with some of the ponies up here, I mean it looks like they've never had a good laugh in their lives." Kai said returning Celestia's smirk. "Well, we won't keep you from what your fun." Luna said with a joyful smile. "We'll see you at dinner later tonight right?" She asked with an arched eyebrow. "I'll be back in time for dinner, don't you worry." Kai said slightly nuzzling Luna making her blush. "See you guys later." He said as he galloped down the hall towards the main entrance and into the city of Canterlot. (Canterlot Streets) Kai appeared in a burst of purple ethereal flame in the middle of Canterlot Square attracting the attention of everypony in the vicinity. "I wonder where I should go first." Kai said while briefly skimming the city, whilst ignoring all of the awkward stares from the citizens. "ah, well it doesn't matter I'll just go to the first place that interests me." Kai concluded as he began to trot towards a local boutique. The bell on the door rang to announce Kai's arrival to the boutique. The receptionist was a pale green unicorn stallion that had a light brown mane and tail, green eyes, and the cutie mark of a needle and spool. "Good day to you sir, and welcome to Fleur's Fabrics, my name is Threaded Needle, how can I be of assistance?" Threaded said as Kai approached the desk. "Greetings, My name is Kai, Prince of Morals, and esteemed friend of the royal sisters, I'm here to speak to the owner of this fine establishment." Kai said politely. "Of course, I'll tell her you're here, would you mind taking a seat over there?" Threaded asked him while motioning to some chairs in the corner. "Certainly, thank you for your assistance." Kai said as he sat down in one of the comfortable chairs near the foyer. "No problem sir." Threaded Needle said as he charged his horn to telepathically contact his employer who was on the second floor of the building. (Fleur's Office) Fleur de Lis was sitting in her office looking over some recent orders for some of her dresses and suits for this years Grand Galloping Gala, but she was completely out of ideas. "If I can't figure out any ideas for my clients, I'm going to go out of business!" Fleur said as she almost hurled the clipboard across her spacious office. "I can't use any themes I had last year, because it'll seem like I can't come up with anything new, What am I going to do?" she said nearly breaking down into tears. "Excuse me, Madame Fleur, it's your receptionist, Threaded Needle, I have somepony down here that wishes to speak with you." Threaded Needle said over his telepathic connection with his employer. "Thank you Threaded, I'm on my way down." Fleur said hiding her sense of helplessness as she ended her connection with her receptionist. "I wonder who's come to my sorry excuse for a boutique." Fluer wondered to herself as she stood up from her desk, across her office, out the door, and down the stairs to the foyer. (Boutique Foyer) Kai sat in his chair quietly with his eyes closed giving the illusion that he had been waiting for a long time, when only five minutes have passed since he sat down. This startled Threaded Needle, so he decided to see if his guest was asleep or not. "Excuse me sir, are you sleeping?" Threaded asked in confusion. "No, I'm not sleeping, just clearing my mind." Kai said in a reassuring tone. "Is your employer on their way?" He asked politely. "Yes, she is and I feel that I must warn you that she isn't in the greatest of moods today." Threaded cautioned. "Any reason for her behavior?" Kai asked with a concerned look on his face. "There is, you see the Grand Galloping Gala is in a couple of months and Madame Fleur has been having trouble with coming up with ideas to entice customers." Threaded said with a frown. "I hope you know what you're doing sir, my boss is a very sensitive mare and doesn't need to be harassed about her work ethic." Threaded continued with a slight bit of contempt in his voice. "Don't worry, I may have a solution to her problem, all she has to do is listen to what I have to offer." Kai said with a calming tone. Threaded was about offer his rebuttal, but he couldn't when he saw his employer come into his peripheral vision. "Oh my apologies, my Lord may I present the lovely mare Fleur de Lis, wife to Lord Fancy Pants, and owner of this establishment." Threaded said while slightly bowing his head. "Greetings Lady Fleur, my name is Kai, Prince of Morals, and I hear you're in a pretty sticky situation, and I'd like to help you, if you'll let me." Kai said as he bowed his head in respect for Fleur. "Welcome good prince, you've heard right, I am having trouble with trying to make suits and dresses for my clients lately, and I welcome any input you have to offer, please come up to my office." Fleur said with a pleasant smile on her face. "Of course milady." Kai said with a smirk. Kai turned to Threaded Needle, "Get ready for the storm." he whispered in his ear before leaving the stallion to his own devices. (Fleur's Office) Fleur strode into her office giggling like a school filly with excitement of what new ideas her new client had for her to try out in her clothing designs. "I can't believe my luck, I mean a mere stranger just waltzes into my boutique and offers to help me, oh praise the royal sisters." Fluer thought to herself as she picked up her clipboard in her magic. "Oh my good sir, I must say for a foreign dignitary you sure do have a great sense of fashion." Fleur said as she eyes Kai's unique apparel. "Who makes these astonishingly beautiful clothes you're wearing?" she asked in complete awe of the intricate designs woven into the dovah mail, plate armor, and cloak. "Would you believe me if I told you that I made these myself?" Kai asked the giddy designer in response to her question. Fleur's brain practically exploded in her head at the revelation that Kai made his clothes himself. "Did you just say that you made these fabulous garments?!" Fleur half shouted in happiness. "Yes I did, and just out of good will I will share my secrets with you." Kai said to the ecstatic mare before him. "You would do that for me?" Fleur asked with vigor in her voice. "As I've said before, yes I will, and trust me when I say that you'll be the envy of every other clothing designer in Equestria, except Rarity because she already knows my secrets and she told me that you're one of her friends here in Canterlot alongside your husband, Fancy Pants." Kai said with confidence. "How do you Miss Rarity exactly?" Fleur asked with slight concern. "Rarity works for me as the designer for the garbs of my followers." Kai explained to Fleur, not to truly reveal his status as a deity to her. "Really? Why does she have to work for you? She should be her own mare." Fleur stated matter-of-factly. "She still owns her own business, she just works for me as a side job because her little sister works for me." Kai responded with a calm tone. "Oh, well that's nice, but why you?" Fleur asked, now definitely curious as to why the element of Generosity would bow to another other than Celestia, Luna, or Cadence. "Alright, but what you're about learn will not be spoken outside of this room, is that clear?" Kai said with emphasis that he's placing his trust in Fleur hoping that she won't spread any gossip. "You have my word, I shall not speak of what you tell me outside of this location." Fleur pledged placing her left foreleg on her barrel. "Good, now I'm not your normal kind of prince, and that's because I'm literally a god incarnate. Also, I'm not even from this dimension at all, I will tell you and the other nobles about it later, but just know that I am unlike any other." Kai said with conviction getting Fleur's attention due to his strange origin. "That's quite something, but the help you promised?" Fleur asked changing the subject not wanting to press the matter of Kai's origin further. "Ah right, just let me take off my cloak and armor and I want you to touch the garment I wear underneath." Kai instructed as he stripped himself of his cloak and armor. "Alright." Fleur said in compliance with Kai's request. She lightly traced her hoof along the surface of the dovah mail. "oh my goodness, your under garbs feel like dragon scales!" Fleur exclaimed when she felt the material. "That's because it is made of dragon scales, not just functional for battle, but also very stylish." Kai stated matter-of-factly as he posed in the mirror. "Astonishing, but how do come by the material? I bet it's dangerous to retrieve." Fleur noted knowing how dangerous the dragons can be. "It is dangerous, but I assure you that I don't harm them, I am blood-kin to them, also I can't die trust me I've tried." Kai said looking in the mirror and gazing at the location where his heart was. "I believe that, but what do you mean you're blood-kin to the dragons? Were you raised by them or something?" Fleur asked completely confused at her visitor's statement. "I mean that when I was still mortal I was called Dovahkiin, which means 'Dragonborn' in the dragon language. This also gives me the blood and soul of a dragon, just encased within a mortal body." Kai explained. "I see, so they trust you?" Fleur asked as she sketched out possible designs for a suit for Kai. "Yeah, so what are you doing over there?" Kai asked with a knowing smirk on his face which caused the light pink mare to blush in embarrassment. "I'm sketching out a suit made of this new material for you Kai, it's for the Grand Galloping Gala later on this year." Fleur said as she finished up he design. "There, I'm done with my sketch, come tell me what you think." Fleur said as she set her sketch pad down. Kai trotted over to Fleur's desk and took a seat in one of the chairs across from her and looked at the sketch of his suit. The suit was a beautiful shade of white that matched his coat with black highlights along the folds of the suit, his shirt was black, his tie was white with a pin in the form of his cutie mark. Kai was at a loss for words, every time he tried to formulate a sentence, he just couldn't do it because of the intricate detail that was put into the suit, he almost certain that this was Rarity's missing big sister, or something. After about six minutes of silence Kai finally found his voice. "Lady Fleur, words can't begin to describe my thoughts to this wonderful suit, but if I had only one word to describe it, I believe that word would be: Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!" Kai squealed with glee as he tackled Fleur to the ground in a breath-robbing hug. "I'm glad that you love it, but could you do me a favor, and stop squeezing the air out of my lungs." Fleur said as she struggled against the captor's arms. "Oops, sorry, I have a bad habit of nearly hugging my friends to death, it's one of the things I need to be aware of, but it always seems to escape me." Kai said as he loosened his hold on Fleur with a slight frown coming on to his face. "It's alright, I forgive you, but you do need to learn that if you're not careful you could end up hurting your friends." Fleur said as she placed a hoof on Kai's shoulder. "Okay, so let's talk business, I'll provide you with the supplies you need for the suit, and we'll present it to the nobles that are requesting their suits and dresses from you." Kai said as he pointed at the sketch. "I agree, but it won't be ready for a few days, and I can't keep you from your duties." Fleur said with a frown on her face. "Don't worry, since I am a deity, I can go where I please when I please, so I can stay here in Catnerlot for as long as I want." Kai said reassuring her. "Great I'll get started on the suit right away, but I need your measurements to even begin." Fleur said as she levitated her measuring tape towards Kai. As Fleur got what she needed Kai thought of how he could announce his true form to Equestria. I'll do it at the Gala, I don't see any other way to do this, I guess it'll have to do. Kai thought to himself as fleur was trying to get his attention. "Kai, Kai, Hey Kai!" Fleur nearly shouted in Kai's ear. "What, what, what happened? Are you done already?" Kai asked as his mind was racing around to get him back in the swing of things. "Yes we're done and I'll have it ready in two days, just make sure you show up to the preview show, okay?" Fleur said with a slightly irritated tinge to her voice. "Okay, I'll be there, see you later." Kai said as he picked up the rest of his clothes and put them back on and teleported out in a burst of ethereal purple-blue flames. (Canterlot Café entrance) After spending a good portion of his day at Fleur's boutique it was time to get some lunch, he reappeared in a flash of ethereal purple-blue flames in front of a café. "Well now it's time for lunch." Kai said as he heard his stomach growl at him. He strode into the café ignoring the stares from the ponies that surrounded him. He came to a stop at the front counter and waited for a hostess to greet him. "Well hello, good looking, name's Ebony Shard, how can I help you?" the ebony furred, silver maned Pegasus mare said looking at Kai's attire. "Hello, Ms. Shard, my name is Kai, and I'll take one of your garden salads with no dressing, and I'll just take iced tea to drink." Kai said to his server in a polite, but attentive fashion. "Okay that's a garden salad with no dressing, and iced tea, correct?" Ebony Shard said as she looked over the order to make sure she got it right. "That's right, and thank you for your services." Kai said as he looked at her stunning purple eyes, staring directly into her soul. "When's your break, if you don't mind me asking?" he asked as she began to leave with his order ticket. "I get off in ten minutes, why?" Ebony asked with a curious look on her face. "I just want to talk with you, unless you have anything else to do later, then I won't keep you." Kai said with a calming tone to his voice. "Well, I guess so, but I have to get home so I can get ready for my date later tonight." Ebony said with a bit of nervousness. "If you don't want to I completely understand." Kai said with a reassuring tone. "Okay, maybe some other time perhaps?" Ebony asked as she looked over her shoulder giving the order ticket to the chef. "Yeah, sure that works." Kai said with a little bit of disappointment in his voice, but she couldn't tell. (five minutes later) Ebony Shard returns to Kai's table with a tray holding a bowl of salad without any dressing, and freshly brewed iced tea with a lemon wedge on the glass. "Here ya go, one garden salad and iced tea as ordered." Ebony said with a confident smirk. "Thanks, looks delish, here's your payment." Kai said as he levitated a small bag of Septims to Ebony, who took a look inside to look at the coins. "So what're these?" Ebony asked looking at one at the Septims in her hoof with curiosity. "Those are called Septims, basically they're just like bits, but they're from my home land." Kai explained to the confused mare. "I guess it'll do." Ebony said with a shrug of her shoulders. After Ebony left Kai began to eat his lunch, he enjoyed having salads every once in a while, but this salad was truly something to brag about in his mind. His mouth was watering at the robust taste of fresh tomatoes, carrots and seasoned croutons. The iced tea was good too as he savored it like a fine wine. A few tables away from him was Twilight Sparkle, Spike, and a few of Twilight's old friends from Canterlot. As Kai finished his meal he saw Twilight at a table with Spike and three other unicorn mares all of whom were laughing and sharing the latest news. "I didn't know that Twilight had any friends here too, well you learn something new everyday." Kai said to himself as he raised the hood of his cloak and strode over to Twilight's table with his iced tea in his magic. "Hello, sorry to interrupt, but may I sit here?" Kai asked politely as he reached Twilight's table. The blue coated mare Minuette was the first to speak out of the group, "Yeah, sure you can sit here." she said with a nod. "Thanks I didn't mean to intrude on your conversation, just don't mind me." Kai said as he looked at Twilight who had a shocked look on her face. "What is he doing here?" Twilight asked herself. Twilight continued her story about how she met her newest friend and what he was like. "That's just about everything." Twilight said with a confident smile. "Whoa, so he can just change his appearance whenever he wants to?" Minuette asked. Twilight nodded in response. "He can also read your soul like a book?" Lemon Drops asked. Twilight nodded once again. "You also said he's got unlimited magical reserves, is that true too." Moon Dancer asked. "That's right, all of those things are true." Twilight said. "In fact he's sitting right next to you Minuette." Twilight added. "So you're the stallion we've been hearing about, Twilight wasn't kidding when she said you were a looker." Minuette said with a slight blush on her cheeks. "That's right and I hope to see you ladies at the Gala because I'm going and Twilight, when you get back to the temple tell the others that I have a very important announcement to make." Kai said as he acknowledged Minuette and Twilight. "Sure, but why are you in Canterlot?" Twilight asked. "I'm on vacation visiting Celestia and Luna, and I need to get back to the castle because Garrin will probably be asleep for the rest of the week if I don't wake him soon." Kai said as he just now noticed that he left Garrin in their room to sleep all day. "It's been a pleasure speaking to you ladies, good day." he said as he disappeared in his ethereal flames. (Canterlot Castle evening) Kai appeared inside Canterlot Castle in a burst of ethereal purple-blue flames and ignored the stares from the guards that observed his entrance. "I can't wait until the Gala, but I still don't have one thing, and that's a date." Kai said to himself in a hushed tone. "Who is my date going to be though?" Kai asked himself. Kai's thoughts were suddenly interrupted by his growling stomach. "Well it's time for dinner." he said as he eyed the clock noticing it was almost six o'clock in the evening. As Kai walked through the halls he encountered his ever faithful servant sitting outside the dining room. "Hello Garrin." Kai said with a nervous smile. "How was your day?" he asked with a hint of nervousness in his voice. Garrin was silent for a moment as he thought of his response to his master's statements. After he collected himself he looked at his master with a mischievous smile on his face. "Oh, I'm just fine master, and I had a wonderful day with the princesses, how was your day?" Garrin asked his master noticing his shocked expression. Kai took a moment to recover, and once he did he knew that Garrin was messing with him. "I had a fantastic day, I ran into Celestia and Luna's poor excuse of a nephew, I ate breakfast with them, then went out to the public, helped a local designer, ate lunch and saw Twilight and met some of her friends here in Canterlot." Kai said as he recounted the various events that shaped his day. "Really, now that sounds interesting, I assume you told Twilight that it's going to be time to show them our true forms soon didn't you?" Garrin asked. "Yes I did, but it's going to be during the Grand Galloping Gala later in this year, and we both need suits, and dates if we are attending this event." Kai said with a serious tone. "Right so, do you want to eat or not?" Garrin asked with a smile, changing the subject. "Yeah, let's go eat, then plan out what we're doing for the Gala." Kai said as he approached the door to open it. After their short pep talk, Kai saw that Luna, Celestia, and Blueblood were already seated at the table. When Blueblood saw Kai come through the door, he almost screamed in horror knowing that the key to his imminent demise was coming with his aide. "Aunty Celestia, can I be excused?" Blueblood asked in a terrified voice. Celestia chuckled at her nephew's voice and lightly patted his back with a wing. "It's alright nephew, he won't hurt you, but I assume you learned not to be a brat in the presence of a special visitor?" Celestia asked in her motherly tone. All Blueblood could do was nod his head. "Yes, Aunty Celestia, I have." Blueblood said with a defeated look on his face. Kai saw the hurt look on Blueblood and felt bad for him, so he decided to cheer him up with some wise words. "I know you're afraid of me, but know that I have a forgiving nature, and I'm willing to start anew as long as you never forget the lesson I inadvertently taught you." Kai said remembering the incident from earlier that morning. "I pray for your forgiveness, Prince Kai, I'm sorry for my despicable behavior this morning." Blueblood said with sincerity. "I forgive you Blueblood, and I apologize for my treatment of you as well." Kai said with a slight bow of his head. "Apology accepted, so would you like to sit across from Aunty Luna, or me?" Blueblood asked politely. "I'll sit across from the great mistress of the night." Kai said with a wink causing Luna to blush. After a filling meal and some great stories from the various ponies gathered at the table Kai and Garrin bade the other royals a good night and went to their guest room to further plan the most important evening of their lives and the lives of all Equestria, but little did they know that they weren't the only ones planning on visiting Equestria for a change. > Chapter 9: Visit to Canterlot (part 3)/ Prepping for the Reveal > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Canterlot Castle 7:00 a.m. After a long night of careful planning, Kai and Garrin were finally ready to move forward with their plans to reveal their true forms to the citizens of Equestria. Kai awakened from a less than satisfactory sleep, since he and Garrin spent most of the night talking about how they should reveal themselves as otherworldly entities to this world’s denizens.  “Well it’s time for breakfast, then I need to head to Fleur’s boutique to see if she’s made any progress with my suit, Garrin needs to write Twilight a letter listing the specifics of her new task, and I need to ask Luna if she’ll be my date to gala.” Kai said as he wrote down his plan for the day. “I really need to get something to eat.” Kai said as he heard his stomach announce it’s lack of fullness. Kai looked over at Garrin and tapped him on the shoulder. “Garrin, wake up, it’s time to put our plan into action.” Kai said as Garrin yawned. “Yes master.” Garrin replied sleepily. Garrin forgot he slept on the couch and tumbled down to the floor, and Kai couldn’t help but giggle at the display. “oh, hardy, har, I’d love to see you fall on your face in the morning.” Garrin said as he picked himself off of the floor. “Yeah, yeah, now come on we're wasting time.” Kai said as he opened the door to their guest room. The two of them walked to the dining room with no disturbances, save one Blueblood decided that it would be a good idea to try and startle Kai, but the poor idiot missed his mark and tripped over his own hooves and fell face first into the floor. “While I admire your efforts, you still managed to screw yourself over.” Kai said as he walked past Blueblood’s defeated form. Canterlot Castle Dining Room After entering the Dining room, Kai  pulled out a chair for Luna to be polite. She gave me a small smile and sat down as Kai gently pushed her chair in and took his seat next to Garrin. The dining room was silent for a couple of minutes, until Kai broke the silence by muttering about Blueblood’s incompetence. Luna’s ears perked up at the sound of his voice. “What happened?” she asked. “Blueblood tried to scare me while I was on my way here and failed miserably.” Kai said as he levitated an apple to his mouth. Luna looked at Kai with a slightly confused expression and subliminally asked him to explain what happened. “Garrin and I walked out of our room, the entire hallway was silent, the next thing I hear as we turned a corner was something hitting the ground, and what did we see? We saw Blueblood face down on the floor. As I was stepping over him I said “While I admire your efforts, you still managed to screw yourself over.”, he then ran back to his room in shame.” Kai said recounting the anti climactic encounter with Blueblood. Luna and Celestia laughed at their nephew’s pathetic attempt at scaring their guest. “I find it amusing that Blueblood managed to foil his own plan by acting too hastily.” Luna said as she gave a cute little giggle at the short story. Breakfast was delicious, Kai ordered strawberry crepes with a latte, Garrin had Prench toast with tea, Celestia and Luna both had blueberry pancakes with hot chocolate. Each of them had rather enticing, yet embarrassing stories about each other that managed to fill the dining room with laughter. After breakfast Kai decided to take Garrin with him to visit Fleur’s boutique in Canterlot to see his new suit for the Grand Galloping Gala. Kai also needed Garrin to come so he could get measured for his suit as well, and to show his new suit to Celestia and Luna to get their dresses made with the same material as well. “Come on Garrin, you’ll be fine, Fleur just needs to get your measurements to make your suit, besides she’s a friend of Rarity’s too, so it’s a win-win for us both.”  Kai said as he and Garrin walked to Fleur’s boutique.                  “I know master, I don’t mean to sound like I distrust her, I just prefer Rarity’s work that’s all.” Garrin said with a hint of uneasiness.         Fleur’s Boutique After what felt like half an hour walk, they finally arrived at Fleur’s Boutique to check on Kai’s new suit for the Gala. Garrin was excited for this, but not as excited as Kai was. They both wanted to see how much effort Fleur puts into her work, probably as much as Rarity. They entered the Boutique to find the elegant tailor working on another dress and turned to see them after they had walked in. “Ah if it isn’t Kai, good to see you.” Fleur said with happiness and she finished tending to the dress. She then noticed the other pony next to Kai that she had never seen before. “Who is your friend there Kai?” Fleur asked with a quirked eyebrow. “Oh, this Garrin, my faithful Dremora companion.” Kai responded as he gestured to the dark grey unicorn beside him. “Just so you know a Dremora is a spell summons from where I’m from, and they usually obey their masters’ every wish, but if they ever offer you a gift, never accept it.” Kai said as he recalled the story of A Tragedy in Black. “Why not?” Fleur asked with her curiosity piqued by her new friend and customer. “Will something bad happen to the summoner if they accept the gift?” she asked with a hint of fear in her voice. “If you accept the gift, the bond between master and servant will be broken and the Dremora you summoned will turn against you, but most casters are very well aware of this and never accept the gift offer.” Kai said with a hint of darkness in his voice. “Luckily Garrin won’t ever do something like that, or he’ll be banished back to Oblivion without a date to the Gala.” he said with a smug grin on his muzzle.         “Dark topics aside, who was that lovely dress for?” Garrin asked as he eyed the beautiful dress sitting on the mannequin. Fleur looked back to the dress she was making before they had arrived. “Oh, that dress is for Sassy Saddles, the manager of Rarity’s boutique here in Canterlot.” Fleur said as she checked the dress for any imperfections. This new bit of information came as a shock for both stallions as Rarity didn’t even mention that she expanded her business to Canterlot. “Well that’s great, is this dress made from the material I gave you?” Kai asked as he eyed the dress for the scale pattern that signified the unique look of Dovahmail. “I did not make this dress out of the material you gave me, but I do want to make dresses for the princesses once you present your suit to them.” Fleur said as she ignited her magic to levitate Kai’s suit into the main showroom. “I hope that you like it, I really worked hard on this suit.” Fleur said while placing the suit on Kai’s back. “Great, let me go try this on before I go back to the castle to showcase your work.” Kai said as he went into one of the changing rooms. After five minutes, Kai stepped out of the changing room and came back to the main showroom. Garrin and Fleur were both staring with their jaws practically hitting the floor. “What’s wrong?” he asked looking at himself in the mirror checking for any imperfections in the suit. Fleur was the first to snap out of her speechless state. “There’s nothing wrong with the suit, it’s just perfect and it really highlights all of your features in an aesthetically pleasing way!” she said with an awestruck expression on her muzzle. “Is it uncomfortable anywhere?” Fleur asked to make sure that the suit wasn’t causing Kai any discomfort. “Nope, everything’s fine.” Kai said moving his forelegs, and wings to check the suit for any uncomfortable feelings from the material. “It’s perfection Fleur, now the other reason I came here with Garrin is because this lovable oaf doesn’t have a suit and I thought of bringing him here to you.” Kai said as he pointed a hoof at Garrin. “No problem, I can get his suit done today since I’ve already made yours. So can you go back the castle to show the princesses your new suit?” Fleur said as she was slightly pushing Kai towards the door. “I really need to know if the princesses want their dresses made out of this material.” Fleur requested as she opened the door to her boutique. (Canterlot Castle, Luna’s Room) “Calm down Lulu, I’m sure you have a dress that suits you.” Celestia said trying to calm a frantic Luna find a dress to wear to the Gala. “You don’t understand Tia, I can’t find the gown that Rarity made for me last year! I really loved that one, but now it’s missing!” Luna whined as she searched every nook and cranny of her closet. The two princesses were so caught up in trying to find Luna’s gown they didn’t hear the door open or close.         “Well if you can’t find it, why don’t you just get a gown made out of This.” Kai said startling the two princesses half to death. After the initial shock of being surprised by their friend they stared in awe at the suit Kai was wearing, the primary color of the suit coat was white, the vest a deep red, the tie was white, and the shirt was black. The colors weren’t the only amazing thing about the suit, it was what it was made of, it was made of dragon scales.         “Oh my gosh, this suit is beautifully made, and I love way it hugs your body in a comfortable fashion!” Luna said as she eyed Kai’s suit. “Is this what you’re going to be wearing to the Gala?” she asked with a smile. “That’s right, and if you’re wondering where I got this art piece of a suit from, I got it from Lady Fleur de Lis.” Kai said pretty much silencing their question of where this suit came from. “Lady Fleur also want to know if the two of you want your dresses made out of this material as well, so would you?” Kai asked with a smile.         “Oh I would love to see myself in a dress made out of dragon scales!” Luna said as she summoned her quill and parchment and wrote down her and Celestia’s measurements for him to give to Fleur when he returned to her boutique to pick up Garrin.         “Thanks a lot ladies. Trust me when I say that you’ll love these dresses when you see them in front of you.” Kai said as he was about to leave, but then he remembered that he needed a date he turned back around and looked at Luna. “Luna, will you be my date for the Grand Galloping Gala?” he asked with a pleasant smile.         “Yes, I would be honored if you’d be my date Kai.” Luna said with a smile, but on the inside she just wanted to tackle the stallion and kiss him full in the mouth for asking her to go with him.         “Great, now I need to go and get Garrin, can’t have him miss dinner.” Kai said as he teleported back to Fleur’s boutique. (Fleur’s Boutique) Garrin and Fleur were both waiting for Kai to return with Celestia and Luna’s answers in regards to making their dresses for the Gala. Garrin sat in a chair near the door with his suit nicely packed into a box, while Fleur was sitting on her couch reading a novel. Then they heard the sound of magic being used outside and Kai strode in with a smile plastered on his face.         “So what did they say, do they want dresses made out of your suit’s material?” Fleur asked with a hopeful expression on her face. Her answer came in the form of a piece of parchment with various measurements on it. Fleur gasped in surprise as to what this piece of parchment was. “I-Is this what I think this is?” Fleur asked with a slight stutter. “It is Fleur, these are the measurements of Princess Luna and Princess Celestia, and they’ve enlisted you to make their dresses.” Kai said as he walked towards Garrin to speak to him privately while Fleur squealed like a filly who just got her cutiemark. “Did you ask her master?” Garrin asked. “Yes, and she said yes!” Kai whispered with a smile. “Did you write that letter I told you to write to Twilight?” he asked. “Of course, everything is going according to plan.” Garrin said as he nodded his head as they left Fleur to start making Luna and Celestia’s dresses. > Chapter 10: The Revelation > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Kai’s Temple, Everfree Forest, Three weeks after Trip to Canterlot, Kai’s P.O.V.) It’s been three weeks since my little vacation in Canterlot. The last few weeks were spent getting everypony else ready for the Gala which was next week if my memory served me correctly. Twilight, Cheerilee, Trixie, and the rest of the Elements of Harmony were all up to speed about my plans to reveal my true form. To be efficient I only gave them a glimpse of what my true form was. I sighed in exasperation. “Anything bothering you my lord?” I heard from one of my first disciples, Sweetie Belle. “Well, um I was just thinking.” I replied as Sweetie Belle pressed on. “About what, your true self?” I sighed once more. “Yes, It’s just, I’m not sure how they will react when they see the true me and how it will affect our friendship.” I said slightly worried. “But it’s nothing to worry your little head over.” I told her while ruffling her mane in a friendly manner. “I wonder what everypony else is doing?” I asked myself as I closed my eyes and drifted into unconsciousness. With my consciousness now free to roam about, I set to work on checking up on everypony. “First stop Twilight and Spike.” I said as I floated closer to the castle. (Twilight’s Castle, Twilight’s P.O.V.) It was almost time, The Grand Galloping Gala, one of the biggest parties in Equestria and it’s around this time of year when everypony who is invited to dress in their best dresses, and suits, and now for the first time ever we have a being of supreme power from another dimension coming in to reveal his true self to all Equestria! “I just can’t wait, This is going to be so amazing to witness first hoof! I’m so glad I joined this cult when I did otherwise I would’ve missed out on a great new friend.” I thought to myself as I reshelved some of the spell tomes Kai gave me as a delayed birthday present. “I absolutely love these spells, these will most certainly be useful in both combat and just everyday use.” I said as I looked at each of the symbols on the books, then I started to organize them based on the symbols on the covers. “Let’s see Restoration, Conjuration, Destruction, Illusion, Alteration, Enchanting and Mysticism.” I said as I looked at the descriptions of each of the symbols based on the reference guide that Kai got from a place in his world called the Arcane University. “It’s a pity that he said that the Mages Guild was blamed for the Oblivion Crisis.” I said when I put down the reference guide. “Spike can you come here please?” I called out to my number one assistant. “Coming Twi.” I heard him call back from the distance. “So this is where you’ve been hiding my studious princess.” I heard a voice say from behind me, making me jump a little. “Kai, h-how, is this possible?” I stammered as I saw Kai standing in front of me. “I thought you were back at the temple.” I said with a quirked eyebrow. “Oh I am, I’m just allowing my consciousness to roam while my body stays put in the temple.” he said while waving a hoof dismissively. My eyes lit up when that sentence left his mouth. “You have got to teach me how to do that!” I said with ecstatic grin on my face. “Is somepony here Twi?” Spike asked he came running into the library almost tripping on some books. “It’s just Kai, Spike he’s just visiting to see what we’re doing.” I said to him as I helped him up off the floor. “So is there anything you need help with?” Spike asked as he looked past me to see Kai sitting in one of the chairs reading a book. “As a matter of fact there is, I need you to help me sort through these books…” I stopped and looked at Spike, he had the look of “Really?” on his face, “... and in return I’ll let you put your comics in with these too.” I said in a sing-song voice. Spike’s smile threatened to swallow his ears. “Okay, let’s do it!” Spike said as he gathered his comics and placed them next to the stacks of books that Kai gave me. (Kai’s Temple, Everfree Forest, Garrin’s P.O.V.) From our arrival until now, I was able to appreciate the organisms that inhabit this world and they were quite the fascinating. Although, one stood out from the rest and has seemed to have enchanted me. That pony was Fleur, the tailor in Canterlot, but alas it seems a stallion has already stolen her heart and there was nothing I could do about it. “It’s like Master says when one door closes, another one opens.” I thought to myself as I was in the exact position that my Master was in, loneliness. “I know there’s somepony out there for me, but who?” I asked as I read through the Canterlot Post. That’s when I saw her, there was a mare by the name Sassy Saddles who was asked by the Princess of Love, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, or Cadence to make her a dress for the Gala this weekend. “She seems like she needs a friend.” I said as I powered up my magic and teleported myself to Canterlot. Upon arrival, it took most of my energy for the distance between my master’s temple to Canterlot.”I haven’t used that much power in such a long time.” I said as I panted from slight exhaustion. “I need something to eat.” I said as I scanned the streets for any local eateries, that’s when I saw a small cafe near what looked like a boutique. “Perfect.” Was the only word that came from my mouth as I entered to see a few ponies eating or conversing with one another. I sat down at a booth and the waiter came over to me with a smile. “What will it be today, good sir.” I looked up at the menu to observe the various dishes that would surely satisfy my appetite. “I’ll take the garden salad with strawberry lemonade, my good sir.” I said with a smile as I gave him the appropriate amount of bits to pay for my meal. “Excellent choices sir, your order will be done soon.” the waiter said as he went towards the kitchen with my order. As I sipped my water, I saw a mare walking in. The mare was a tall, slender unicorn with a pale light grayish cerulean, moderate Persian blue eyeshadow, orange eyes, and a mane that had varying shades of orange, amber, fuchsia, and orchid on the shadowed side, and she wore a modest black dress with a gold saddle. “That must be Sassy.” I thought to myself as I saw her take her seat at another table that was just across from mine. I was entranced by this mare, she truly was beautiful, but my vision was obscured by the waiter as he brought me my order. “Your garden salad, and strawberry lemonade, sir.” he said as he gently placed them in front of me. “Thank you, very much, and have a nice day.” I said appreciatively. “Same to you.” he said as he walked over Sassy’s table to take her order. “I will take the caesar salad without dressing and iced tea please.” Sassy said in her Trottingham accent. If I didn’t have any self control I would have just released my essence into the lower regions of my attire. “Sure thing ma’am, your order will be out in a few minutes.” The waiter said as Sassy waited patiently for her order. “Now’s my chance.” I said as I finished my water. I cleared my throat to speak, “It seems like a good day to have lunch in a place like this doesn’t it?” I said in between bites of my salad. Sassy’s ears perked up at the sound of my voice. “Oh, I know, but it’s close to Canterlot Carousel, so I just come here when I can.” Sassy said as she looked up and looked me in the eye. “That must be really nice.” I replied to her comment. "It truly is." She replied with a smile as she ate her lunch. “So, you work for Rarity correct?” I asked with a knowing grin on my face. Sassy looked speechless. “H-How did you know that?” she stammered. I simply smiled at her “Rarity works for my Master in her off time, and she told me about you, but seeing you face to face is much more pleasing in my opinion.” I said as the waiter returned with her food. “So what do you do for a living..uh…” Sassy said trying to see if she’s seen me before. “Oh my name’s Garrin, and to answer your question, I am my Master’s most faithful companion, he hardly does, or goes anywhere without me.” I said as I finished eating my salad. “Right, and what does your Master do for a living?” She asked with intrigue. “My Master is basically a deity whose sphere of influence is moral dilemmas.” I said with confidence. This session of answering and asking questions continued for about five minutes, then we set off for Canterlot Carousel, which also doubled as her residence. I walked her to the door where we both stopped a moment, but then laughed as we both tried to speak at the same time. She let me say what I wanted to say first “I know we just met, but are you by any chance going to the Gala this weekend?” I asked nervously. “As matter of fact I am, but I don’t have anypony to go with me.” Sassy said with a frown. “Well I don’t have a date either, so would you like to go with me?” I asked with an endearing smile. “Yes, yes I would, thank you Garrin.” She said before giving me a peck on the cheek. “I’ll see you this weekend Sassy, and I promise this night will change your life.” I said to her as she opened the door and headed inside. “I can’t wait, see you then.” She replied happily. (Canterlot Carousel, Sassy Saddle’s P.O.V.) After meeting a really nice gentlecolt at the cafe, He offered for me to go with him to the Grand Galloping Gala, it felt like a dream come true for me. What was strange to me was his Master’s title, Daedric Prince, maybe they're another race of ponies, and if he meant that his Master was an alicorn, then I guess he would be considered a deity seeing as alicorns are immortal by nature. “Maybe I should ask Rarity what a Daedric Prince is when I see her at the Gala this weekend.” I said as I went into my sewing room to continue my work on Princess Cadence’s dress. I worked on the dress for the remainder of the day, ate dinner and then as I drifted off to sleep, I could hear a voice in my head. “I see my servant has asked you to be his date to the Gala.” the voice said calmly. I was scared, but I decided to take action and ask who was invading the sanctity of my mind. “Who are you, and what do want with me?” I asked in a panicked voice as I looked all around my room, I thought I was starting to go crazy! “Before you ask, no, you’re not going crazy, I’m actually speaking to you, Sassy Saddles.” The voice said as if it’s done this kind of thing before. I was starting to get a little Irritated, the voice never said who it was and why it was contacting me, I decided to take action once again. “You still didn’t answer my questions, Who are you and what do you want?” I asked a little irritated that I was completely ignored. “Sorry about that, I am Garrin’s Master, Kai, and what I want with you is to know this, Garrin is a very sensitive gentlecolt, and it took a lot of guts for him to do what he did, he literally disobeyed me and risked his existence for the chance to ask you to be his date. If you break his heart I will make certain to give your soul to Molag Bal to suffer for eternity, that’s not a threat, that’s a promise.” Kai said as the slight anger in his voice died down. Now I was terrified I was told by a being of supreme power that he would give my soul to one of his counterparts to keep for eternity! I was so scared I almost wet my bed for the first time since I was five years old! “If I sound cruel to you I apologize, it’s just that Garrin means a lot to me and I would hate to see him live in sadness and despair for eternity.” Kai said with sincerity. “He loves you know and just hopes that you love him back, that’s all I’m trying to say. I’m truly sorry if I’ve scared you, I don’t expect you to forgive me for what I did, but know that I am not cruel and unfeeling towards those who serve me and those who don’t.” Kai said with remorse evident in his voice, even though I couldn’t see him, I could tell that he was truly sorry what he did and the fact he didn’t expect my forgiveness made him a very noble pony. “I forgive you Kai, but I want to Garrin to know that I love him, but I don’t know how to tell him.” I said truthfully. “Just tell him at the Gala, but after the announcement that we have to give to all of Equestria, okay? Kai said with a slight laugh. “It was nice to meet you Sassy, I hope to see you at the Gala this weekend with Garrin, and good night.” Kai said as his voice faded away, once again leaving me alone in my room. (Day of the Gala, Kai’s Temple, Everfree Forest, 6:00 p.m., Kai’s P.O.V.) It was almost time to leave, and we were all waiting for Twilight and Spike to get here so we could go to Canterlot for the Gala, but most importantly, I wanted to walk into the ballroom with Luna by my side, Garrin would meet Sassy outside the castle before going in, so now the rest of us were either playing cards, or complimenting each other on their suits, or dresses for the Gala. “What could she be doing? we have to be there before 7:00, if we wait any longer we’re going to be late!” I thought to myself as I looked out upon my disciples who were eagerly waiting the Revelation. Just as I looked up I saw Spike, but not Twilight, I decided to ask why he came alone. “Spike, where’s Twilight?” I asked calmly. “She’s already in Canterlot, and she sent me a letter saying everything’s ready and we can go now.” The little dragon said with a nervous smile. “Well that answers my question.” I responded to Spikes reply with an indifferent expression. “Alright everypony, it’s time to go Twilight’s already at the Gala so gather close together and hold hooves otherwise you won’t be teleported.” I instructed. With that said, every single pony in the temple all held on to each other’s hooves as I activated my magic and we were enveloped in purple-blue flames and disappeared from the room. (Canterlot Castle, Luna’s bedroom, Luna’s P.O.V.) I looked at myself in my mirror, and I must say that I look sexy in dragon scales. My dress felt like a second skin, with only exceptions being wear and tear resistant, flame resistant, frost resistant, and magic resistant. My dress was blue, silver, and black. The blue colored portion of my dress made up the main body, the black near my neck, wings, and foot of my dress, and the silver to look like the stars of my beautiful night sky. “I absolutely love this dress I need to place this on a mannequin, and place that mannequin in a display case.” I said as I continued to ogle myself. I was torn from my thought when I heard a knock on my door. “Luna, it’s me, your date.” Kai said in a slight sing-song tone. “I must admit he has a lovely sounding male singing voice.” I thought to myself as I recollected myself and opened my bedroom door. The look on his face was absolutely priceless, he stared at me like a foal would stare at ice cream. “Well, you look nice,” I said complimenting him on his suit. “You look like the tapestry that is the night sky.” He said with sincerity. “Aw you’re too kind.” I said blushing a little at his compliment. He got closer to me and his muzzle was mere inches from my ear “How about I stay here tonight, and I can stargaze with you?” he lovingly whispered in my ear. I was flustered by this I knew I loved him, but I never knew that he loved me back, I knew now he was mine, and mine alone! “I would love to, but that’s not until later on, I believe the public is waiting for us.” I said with sultry smile and pecking him on the cheek. I knew he was staring at me, and I loved it, so I decided to put more sway in to my hips as I went out of my room with my future lover in tow. (Canterlot Castle, 6:45 p.m. Sassy Saddle’s P.O.V) I stood outside the castle waiting for Garrin to arrive, and then I saw a huge mass of purple-blue flames erupt outside of the castle, the strangest thing about these flames was that they didn’t seem to harm anything, like they were ethereal or something, that when I saw him, I saw Garrin, and several other ponies I didn’t recognize save for my boss Rarity and her friends. I must say that I was blown away by his suit, it looked like it wasn’t made of silk, or fabric, no, it looked more like dragon scales! “Well, I see you’re quite ready for tonight, and what an entrance as well.” Garrin smiled and bowed his head like a true gentlecolt would. “Shall we go, the Gala awaits.” He offered his hoof which I gladly took and looked at another figure who had arrived with him. “Um who is that?” Garrin turned to see his companion and replied. “Hm? Oh that was my Master, and his cultists, the Moral Seekers.” he said as he led the both of us into the castle. I was intrigued by what he said so I urged him to tell me more. “Cult? What cult?” I asked with a quirked eyebrow. He took a breath and sighed. “Remember how I said that my Master is a god-like being that can do just about anything he wants?” He asked, I nodded in response. “Well it’s true, he can literally do anything he wishes to, but unlike most of the others in the Daedric Pantheon he is considered to be the kindest Daedra in existence, and that’s saying a lot.” He said with a smile, but he could tell that I was still confused. “You’ll understand when my Master makes his special announcement tonight, for now let’s just go in and enjoy ourselves.” He said nuzzling my cheek reassuringly. “Alright, but promise me you’ll tell me everything, ok?” I asked with a pleading stare. “Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” He replied, while doing the motions of the Pinkie Promise. (Canterlot Castle Ballroom 3rd Pony P.O.V.) The castle ballroom was filled with ponies in fancy suits and dresses talking, laughing, dancing, and drinking. The music was nice and upbeat and it kept everypony in a good mood. All activity stopped abruptly when the crowd turned and saw Princess Luna and a male alicorn coming down the stairs side by side. “Good evening everypony!” Luna shouted with joy. “Tonight we have two very special guests here and they both have something to tell us.” Luna said with a smile enticing the crowd to whisper and ponder their thoughts. “That’s right, and I would like to start by having my most loyal servant standing by my side, as he has been doing for the past few hundred years.” Kai said as he spotted Garrin in the crowd of ponies. “Care to join me, Garrin?” He said as Garrin attempted to act embarrassed, but he walked through the crowd of ponies offering his pardons to each pony he walked past. “I’m here Master, and I will follow you to the end of this world and beyond.” Garrin said as he neared the staircase. “Very good, my old friend and now for the coup de gras…” Kai said with a smirk on his face. “Everypony Garrin and I aren’t from this world, we are from another one, called Nirn. Garrin and I belong to a type of being called Daedra, however, I am one of the most powerful forms of Daedra, I am a Daedric Prince.” He said his smile never leaving his face as he saw the crowd was very interested in learning more. “Daedric Princes are often worshipped as gods because we’re immortal, we can enact great change upon the world, and we have gained the respect of millions over the years.” He said looking out at the crowd. “Now it’s time to take off the mask and get to know the real Garrin and me.” Kai said as he activated his magic. Kai’s body started to change, his spine elongated and he used all of his might to throw his upper half into the air, where it now stayed put. His hind legs got a little longer and his hooves were replaced by his original five-toed feet, his forelegs made a similar change, but instead of little nubs, they extended a little bit further from his palm, his head also changed its shape and became a bit smaller, his muzzle was now flush with his features, his eyes were smaller, but they still had that distinct serpentine slit for a pupil and hazel irises. His hair stayed the same brown color it always had been, his horn, tail, fur, and wings completely vanished and now with his transformation complete he stepped off to the side. “Alright Garrin, it’s your turn.” Kai said to Garrin who nodded in response. Garrin used his magic and underwent a similar transformation, the only differences being two slightly pointed ears, gray skin, two horns on the top of his head and black hair. Garrin’s eyes were still piercing red, but like Kai’s they were smaller than a pony’s. After his transformation, Garrin looked at his date Sassy Saddles, who was staring at him with her jaw dropped on the floor in awe upon seeing his true form. After a few minutes of answering questions the Gala went back to being a jovial gathering. Ponies went back to dancing, talking, drinking, and having fun. Garrin went to go look for Sassy in the castle gardens. (Canterlot Castle Gardens, Garrin’s P.O.V.) After I had transformed with my Master, I went to go find Sassy so I could clear up any confusion she might’ve had. “Sassy?” I asked nervously when I spotted her by one of the many fountains in the gardens. Sassy turned to look at me. “Sassy, I’m truly sorry that I’ve deceived you, but mmmph!” I started, but then I was forced to stop when I felt a pair of soft lips touching mine. Sassy was kissing me! “I knew that I wanted to tell her my feelings for her, but it looks like she beat me to it.” I thought as I returned the kiss with just as much passion, allowing her tongue to enter my mouth, as I did the same with her. Eventually we had to separate for air, a string of saliva being the only thing connecting our mouths. “I love you Garrin, no matter what form you wish to take, but just promise me that you’ll love me just as much.” She said while she hugged me tightly. I smiled and hugged her back. “I love you too Sassy, and don’t worry, I’ll never ever do anything to hurt you. You have my oath as a Dremora, if you feel if I don’t live up to your expectations, then you may banish me back to the realm of Oblivion from whence I came.” I stated lovingly while laying my head on the top of hers. (Canterlot Castle Ballroom, Luna’s P.O.V.) I couldn’t believe it, Kai and Garrin were truly “Out of this world”, but I felt my blush grow as he walked over to me. “I hope you’re not too scared to dance, because I really want to dance with you.” He said as he knelt down in front of me. I was stunned, he still wanted to dance with me. “I would be foalish to refuse!” I thought to myself and nodded my acceptance to his offer. He walked the both of us out to the ballroom floor. “Okay, I’m going to teach you how bipedal beings, like myself dance, okay?” He said to me as he gently gripped both of my forelegs and stood up slowly, leaving me to stand on my hind legs, it felt a little weird, but I loved the way I moved with him. We danced for a little while, then I stared into his wondrous hazel eyes and smiled. “I know the feeling, but I want to tell you something when we go back to your room.” He said through a mental connection. "Now I can't wait, but this'll do for now." I thought with eagerness. (Canterlot Castle, Luna’s bedroom, Kai’s P.O.V.) “I have to tell her, I Have to tell her!" I thought to myself as Luna led me into her bedroom. I took off my tuxedo and tie, leaving my vest, shirt, pants, socks, and shoes on. “So tonight was certainly something, wasn’t it?” I said to break the silence in the room. “It certainly was, I never thought that dancing on two legs was much easier than I first suspected.” Luna said as she took off her hoof slippers. “It’s now, or never.” I thought as I sat on the edge of Luna’s bed. “Listen Luna, there’s something I need to tell you.” I said getting her attention as she turned to face me. “I’m listening.” Luna replied. “For all the time we’ve known each other, I can honestly say that I’ve enjoyed every single moment of it and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” I said as she started inching her way closer to me. “I feel the same way, I would rather spend eternity by your side than to face it alone.” she said to me with a smile. “Alright, that’s it…” I said catching her off guard and I picked her up in my arms and planted my lips onto hers. She was startled at first but eventually melted into the kiss. As we kissed I probed the teeth with my tongue, she opened her mouth and met my tongue with her own. We stayed like this for a few more minutes until we separated for air. “I love you Luna, and I truly do want to spend eternity with you, not just as a lover, but as my wife, so what do you say, will you marry me?” I said as I levitated a ring that I had made out of a very rare Black Soul gem that Azura gave me. The gem had a blue tinge to it matching her mane and tail color. Luna looked at me, then the ring a smile appeared on her face. “Close your eyes.” She simply said to me. I closed my eyes as she instructed, I heard her activate her magic, then it dispelled. “Okay open your eyes.” She said telling me that I could look now. I was speechless, I saw the ring I offered her was now placed on her horn her smile never leaving her features. That’s when she said it, she looked me dead in the eyes and said, “I will marry you my love, I was truly hoping you would ask me eventually, but I never expected it to be tonight!” Before I could offer my reply, Luna simply pinned me to the bed and kissed me passionately. “Looks like I’m in for a very long night tonight.” I thought to myself as we continued our kiss. > Chapter 11: What's Going On? > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Canterlot Castle, Luna’s Bedroom, Morning after the Gala, Luna’s P.O.V.) I awoke the next morning to lower the moon, but I looked over to my right side and I noticed that I wasn’t alone. I had my new fiance, Kai lying in my bed sound asleep. I smiled as I got out of bed very quietly so I wouldn’t disturb him. I activated my magic and lowered the moon. With my task done, I went back to my bed and lied back down beside my beloved. “Good morning my love.” I whispered into Kai’s ear. He turned over to face me and kissed me on my lips. “Good morning to you too.” He said after his lips left mine. I smiled when we separated, I opened my mouth to speak, but my stomach had other plans as it growled at me. “Looks like it’s time for breakfast.” I said with a giggle. “Yup, let’s go.” Kai said as he summoned a set of what looked to be sleepwear out of thin air. I smiled at him as a thought came to my mind. “Kai, you do know that Tia doesn’t know that you proposed to me right?” I asked with a mischievous grin. He looked at me and realized what I was implying and grinned back. “I know she doesn’t, just imagine the look on her face when she finds out that I did.” Kai replied as he opened the door to my room and gestured for me to go out first. (Canterlot Castle Dining Room, Celestia’s P.O.V.) “What could be taking her so long? She’s usually the first one here.” I thought to myself as our niece Cadence sat next to me eager to meet Kai for the first time. “Aunt Celestia, is it really true that Kai’s worshipped as a god where he’s from?” Cadence asked with a curious expression. I nodded “Yes, my dear, he is and he’s quite kind in comparison to his counterparts.” I said as I heard the sound of Luna laughing and another voice laughing along with her. “How pathetic.” I heard the second voice say as the door to the dining room opened and Luna walked in with a smile on her face, but that wasn’t so strange, what was strange was what I saw on her horn. I saw a ring on her horn, it was dark colored ring that was perfect for Luna’s coat color. “Probably made out of one those soul gem, things that Kai told us about.” I thought as I saw another body come through the door, to my surprise it was Kai. “What is he doing here? I thought he went back to his temple in the Everfree Forest.” I thought as Kai walked forward towards the table, pulled Luna’s chair out for her, pushed it in, and took his own seat next to her. When Kai sat down Luna kissed him! I leaned down to Cadence’s ear, “What’s going on with them?” I asked very confused as to what was going on with my little sister. Cadence simply giggled, “He’s probably asked Aunt Luna to marry him.” Cadence whispered. Cadence and I looked back at Kai and Luna staring at me with wide grins on their faces. “So Luna is there something you want to tell me?” I asked a little nervous because I haven’t seen Luna like this since she learned about April Fool’s Day. “Oh yes, Tia, I do.” Luna said as she nodded her head. I gestured my hoof for her to continue. “You see last night after the Gala, Kai and I went back to my room because he said he had something to tell me in private. We talked for a little bit and then he kissed me, not just any kiss, this kiss had passion and love in it. After that he proposed to me with this beautiful blue-tinged Black Soul Gem that he carved into a ring, and I said yes!” Luna said as she removed her ring to show it to me, then placed it back on her horn. I was both happy for her and surprised about this turn of events, Luna, my little sister, was going to get married! I was at a loss for words after what Luna just told me. Cadence decided to speak for me as I was still trying to wrap my head around the fact that my little sister was going to be married before me. “So do you two have a date set for the big day?” Luna shook her head, “No we haven’t, we just wanted to inform all of our friends and family about this before we begin planning for our wedding.” Luna said with a smile. I looked over at Kai, he seemed distant, usually he’s really chipper in the morning, but this time it looked like he was worried about something. “Kai is anything wrong?” I asked him with a concerned look on my face. (Canterlot Castle Dining Room, Kai’s P.O.V.) As I listened to Luna talk to her sister and niece, I felt like something was wrong. “I wonder what’s been going on with the others, do they even know that I’m gone, and if they do, why haven’t they tried to contact me?” I thought to myself as I looked at the concerned look on Celestia’s face. “Kai, is anything wrong?” I heard Celestia ask. Celestia’s question pulled me out of my thoughts. “Actually yes, Celestia, there is.” I said as a sorrowful expression made its way onto my face. “Remember when I thought of the other Daedric Princes as my brothers and sisters?” I asked, Celestia nodded in response. “Well, I feel like they need to know about what I’ve been up to since I left Nirn, but I can’t seem to contact them. It’s as if they’re not in their realms of Oblivion, or something.” I said as I tapped my left index finger on my chin in thought. As we ate breakfast, a guard came running into the dining room, he looked like whomever ordered him to come and find us would do something horrible to him. “Your majesties I was simply told to tell you that we have some visitors!” The guard said in a frantic tone. I looked over at the guard. “Did these visitors tell you who they were?” I asked him and he looked like he was going to piss himself for telling me. “I-I was told by the Prince of Mania to come and find all of you, or be turned into cheese!” The guard screamed as if that was actually going to happen. After five seconds I knew who he was talking about. “Thank you, back to your station.” I said dismissing the guard and got up from my chair. Luna looked at me with a concerned expression. “Don’t worry everything’s going to be fine my love.” I said as I scratched behind her left ear. Luna smiled at me in response. “Alright, just be careful.” Luna said as I walked towards the door and gave her a thumbs up as my response. (Canterlot Castle Throne Room, Kai’s P.O.V.) As I entered the throne room I noticed that all of the guards were all cowering in the corners of the room to stay away from the rest of my Daedric brethren. I was elated to see them, but they didn’t seem to share my enthusiasm as I looked over towards the right side of the room and saw the Aedra looking at me with serious expressions on their faces as well. “Hey guys how are you doing?” I asked nervously as Sheogorath walked up to me and slapped me. “How rude of ya to ask such a stupid question, things are absolutely shitty back home!” Sheogorath said in his hyper tone of voice. “Sheogorath’s right, things are absolutely horrible with Nirn, as Jyggalag has forced us out of Oblivion, and the Aedra out of Aetherius.” Hermaeus Mora said with a deadpanned tone. I looked at them with a confused expression. “I’m not following you guys, what does this have to do with me?” I asked them and they all facepalmed. “It’s because of your little disappearing act this is happening!” Molag Bal said with regret of what led to this turn of events. I gestured for him to continue his explanation. “See when you disappeared, we needed someone in charge of the goody-two-shoes department, so we brought Jyggalag back, and the bastard overpowered all of us, Aedra included and banished us here, and now Nirn is way too orderly for even the slightest bit of chaos.” Molag said throwing his arms into the air to further punctuate his point. “Did somepony say chaos?” I heard a voice say as we all saw a strange creature made of a lion, dragon, pony, bird, and other animals appear in the throne room. “My name’s Discord, reformed master of chaos and disharmony at your service.” The creature known as Discord said with a bow. “Nice to meet you, but as you can see this is rather important, so could you leave us alone for a bit?” Azura said politely asking Discord to leave us. “Sure, I was going to go bug Celestia anyway.” Discord said as he disappeared from the room. With Discord out of our business I felt a bit better that someone could lighten the mood. “Ok, so what needs to be done? As I see it Nirn can no longer stabilize itself since the Aedra have been forced out of Aetherius, so we need a way to restabilize Nirn, but how?” I said as I paced back and forth trying to get an idea of what we needed to do to save Nirn from complete destruction. “The only solution to save Nirn would be, to fuse it with this world, but if we do that, then the natives of this world will change to fit their new world.” Akatosh said making the others nod in agreement as he presented the solution to us. I nodded in agreement to this solution. “Ok, that’s settled, but what’re we going to do about Jyggalag?” I asked curiously. “We can’t just merge him back with Sheogorath, the Hero of Kvatch is who made Sheogorath a separate Daedric Prince.” I said matter-of-factly. “Oh yeah that’s right, well, shit we’re screwed then.” Sanguine said remembering that Jyggalag and Sheogorath were now permanently separate Princes now. “We’re not screwed, let’s just talk to him, he’s going to expect us to come in ready to fight, but now we literally have nothing to fight back with.” Meridia said to Sanguine. “She’s right he has to understand that what he’s doing is doing more harm than good.” Stendarr said with an affirming nod. “Alright so we talk to Jyggalag and convince him to stop what he’s doing, then we save Nirn by merging it with Equus if I’m summarizing this correctly.” I said by using my fingers to help me point out what needed to be done to end this crisis. I received nods of agreement. “Ok, well now that’s settled, I’ve got some really great news for you guys!” I said as I remembered that I could tell them about my engagement to Luna while they were here. “Well spit it out lad, we haven’t got all eternity.” Sheogorath said with a smile. “Alright, I’m getting hitched to one of the rulers of this world, and she’s responsible for safeguarding dreams, raising and lowering the moon, creating an artistic masterpiece called the night sky, and she’s very beautiful.” I said with a smile as I described Luna to them. Everyone in the room, except Boethiah and Mehrunes Dagon gave a ‘congratulations’, ‘when’s the big day?’, all of the basic questions people would ask you when you break this kind of news to them. “So where’s the blushing bride?” Azura asked curiously. As if on cue Celestia, Luna, Cadence, and Discord came running into the throne room laughing like mad at some of Discord’s jokes. As Luna stopped laughing she took notice of all of the visitors in the throne room and ran to her beloved’s side. “Who are they?” Luna asked timidly. “Well Luna all of the beings to my left are the rest of the Daedric Princes: Molag Bal, Sheogorath, Boethiah, Mehrunes Dagon, Peryite, Sanguine, Hircine, Nocturnal, Mephala, Namira, Vaermina, Malacath, Clavicus Vile, Nocturnal, Meridia, and Hermaeus Mora.” I said inhaling before naming each of the other princes as I pointed to each of them. “The beings to my right are the Aedra: Akatosh, Kynerath, Dibella, Mara, Julianos, Stendarr, Arkay, Zenithar, and Talos.” I said inhaling before saying their names and pointing to each of them. (Canterlot Castle Throne Room, Luna’s P.O.V.) After Kai briefly introduced each of the two god-like factions from his world I was stunned beyond belief. “Why are they here?” I asked myself as I smiled and bowed my head respectfully. “It’s a pleasure to meet you all.” I said to them, but the Daedric Prince, Azura, walked up to me. “I see that Kai’s put that soul gem I gave him to good use.” Azura said as she spotted my engagement ring on my horn and kneeled to meet my eyes. I smiled and blushed at her compliment. “Thank you, Azura, it really is a lovely gem.” I said to her, Azura nodded in agreement. “I must say that Kai certainly wasn’t lying when he said that his fiance was beautiful.” Sheogorath said as he came up to me, and hugged me tightly. “Welcome to our somewhat insane family!” Sheogorath practically shouted into my ear. “Thanks, I think.” I said as Sheogorath released me from his hug. I looked over at Kai with concern. “Kai, honey, why are they here?” I asked him. Kai sighed as he closed his eyes. “Luna, babe, they’re here because Nirn’s is in trouble, as in the world is destabilizing trouble.” Kai said to me slightly upset with himself. “You’re saying that as if it’s your fault.” I said to him as I got closer to him. “It partly is my fault, because I left Nirn, the others had to bring back Jyggalag to balance out the chain of command in Oblivion, but Jyggalag ended up forcing the others out of Oblivion, and forced the Aedra out of Aetherius, meaning that Jyggalag has completely destabilized Nirn to the point that it needs a host world to merge with in order to restabilize itself, and Equestria has been selected to be merged with Nirn to save it from absolute destruction.” Kai explained to me, Tia, Cadence, and Discord. “Don’t worry, everything will work out, and then we can have our wedding after this is over, I can wait.” I said as I looked up into his eyes lovingly. He kneeled down to my level, leaned forward and kissed him, and he kissed me back. I could hear the other Princes with the exception of Mehrunes, Boethiah, and Nocturnal, along with Tia, Cadance, Discord, and the Aedra say “Awwww” at us. As we parted from our kiss Kai lightly scratched behind my left ear. “Thank you for supporting me my sweet, I promise that once this is over, I’m going to give you the wedding of your dreams.” He said as he stroked my mane lovingly. “Thanks, but there’s somepony missing.” I said as just now realized that Garrin was nowhere to be found. Kai looked around and noticed that I was right. “Oh yeah, I wonder where Garrin is…” He said as he laughed a little. (Canterlot Carousel, Sassy’s Bedroom, Garrin’s P.O.V) After a great night of revealing my true self to all of our friends, Sassy and I confessed our feeling for each other and went back to her place for the night. We fell asleep in each other’s embrace, and I’ve never felt happier. “Oh what a night, but it was truly worth it.” I thought to myself as I looked at the beautiful mare lying on my chest still sound asleep. I gently stroked her mane and she made a slight moan as she awoke from her slumber. “Good morning, my darling.” I said as her eyes met my own. “Good morning.” Sassy said as she shifted herself up to lean in for a kiss. I leaned down and met her halfway and she giggled at the gesture. “I guess that’s one of the advantages of having two legs, it makes it better to stay out of reach from anypony that’s not your special somepony..” Sassy said as she joked about my height. “Ha, well maybe if you could stand on two legs you wouldn’t have to work so hard to get a kiss.” I teased and we both laughed. Just as Sassy was going to retort, her stomach had other plans, since it growled at her and made her blush. “I guess we should get something to eat.” She said pointing out the obvious. “I guess so, this is your house, so lead the way.” I said as I let her get off of me and walked towards the door. As we entered the kitchen Sassy told me to take a seat at the table while she started to prepare some eggs, pancakes, and orange juice for breakfast. “I hope you like it.” Sassy said as she turned her attention back to cooking. “Don’t worry, I can pretty much stomach anything, one time I ate rock on a dare from my Master once, and it went through like normal food, not to mention the rock was the size of my fist.” I said as I remembered that I’ve eaten worse things than just bad cooking. “Really, did it cause any indigestion?” Sassy asked me with a little concern. “Nope, it just got digested like regular food.” I said as I shrugged my shoulders. “That’s interesting my dear, but seriously I really hope you like what I’ve made.” Sassy said as she put on the finishing touches to our meal. “I appreciate it my darling, I really do.” I said as she brought our plates over to the table and sat down in her seat. Sassy giggled at my statement. “Well, dig in.” She said as she used her magic to levitate some pancakes and eggs onto her plate. I waited until she was finished getting what she wanted, and got some food for myself. After I got what I wanted, I took my knife and fork and started carving my pancakes, I brought the fluffy, flat, cake to my mouth and placed it inside. My eyes widened in amazement, these were the best pancakes I’ve ever tasted! “Mmm!” I moaned contentedly as I ate my food. “I see that my cooking is to your liking?” Sassy asked nonchalantly. I said nothing because I had a mouthful of food,Then I swallowed. “Are you kidding this is best food I’ve had in ages!” I said with enthusiasm. After breakfast, I gathered my belongings and headed to the front door, where Sassy was waiting for me. Sassy looked me in the eyes with smile gracing her features. “Promise me you’ll come back to me.” Sassy said as she slightly pouted. “I promise you, I will return to you.” I said as I kneeled down to her and gave her a kiss on the lips. After we broke our kiss I set off to find my Master back at the castle. (Canterlot Castle 3rd P.O.V.) As Garrin approached the castle he saw a group of guards trembling in fear as if they had seen a ghost or something. Garrin didn’t bother asking as he opened the door and to his great surprise, he saw the rest of the Daedric Princes and even the Aedra along with Celestia, Luna, a princess he didn’t recognize, and a very strange combination of creatures turn towards him as Kai walked up to him. “Master, what’s going on?” He asked with a worried expression. “Garrin my friend, Nirn is in dire trouble.” Kai said cryptically, but it got the attention of the Dremora as Garrin’s face turned from slight worry to full on panic. “Oh what have I done?” Kai asked himself as he felt responsible for what was happening to his original homeworld of Nirn. “What are we going to do, Master?” Garrin asked hoping that Kai would have some kind of plan like he always does. “I don’t know Garrin, I don’t know.” Kai said to Garrin as he hung his head in shame. (Nirn, Present Time) Nirn was changed from it’s regularly chaotic nature to a state of eternal order and precision. On a throne made of crystal, a lone Daedric Prince gazed towards the sky. “Soon we shall meet on the field of the mind dear brother, and the victor decides the fate of Nirn, judging souls, and being in charge of keeping ‘order’ in the universe.” The Daedra said as he stood up from his throne and walked towards a portal in one of the mountain valleys of Skyrim. “Soon, our battle will begin and those who assist you will suffer as well.” The prince said as he began to step through the portal. > Chapter 12: Mad God vs Disharmony > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Canterlot Castle Throne Room, Celestia’s P.O.V) I was stunned to see all of the other Daedric Princes and the Aedra all here in Equestria, I had no idea why they were here, but if they’re here with the Aedra, then something is terribly wrong. “So this Jyggalag managed to overpower all of you and sent you here?” I asked and all of them nodded in response. “Well, you’re all more than welcome to stay, on a few conditions. First: don’t start a war, second: we’re in this together, and like it or not, you have to get along, third: when this ordeal is over, all of you must attend my sister’s wedding.” I said as I listed out my restrictions for the two factions. The Daedric Prince, Sheogorath walked up to me and stared at me. “If those are your conditions lass, then I have only one thing to say, CHEESE FOR EVERYONE!” Sheogorath shouted with glee. I chuckled at his whimsical nature. “You should hang out with Discord some time Sheogorath, I think that the two of you could be very great friends.” I said with a smile, but Discord seemed a bit upset that somepony else was just as crazy as he was, or perhaps even more than him. “Discord is something wrong?” I asked him with a worried expression. “No, nothing’s wrong, I’m just peachy.” Discord said with indifference. “If you’re so peachy, why aren’t ya a peach?” Sheogorath asked nonchalantly, earning a few giggles from everypony. (Canterlot Castle Dining Room, 3rd P.O.V) After the Daedric Princes and the Aedra got reasonably settled in, it was time for dinner. Celestia told her assistant Kibitz, to inform the chefs to prepare a feast, and she was happy to know that the dining room table had been packed with enough food to last a month. Everypony took their seats, Kai and Luna sat next to one another Cadence sat next to Akatosh, and Celestia was flanked with Sheogorath to her left, and Discord to her right. Blueblood quivering in fear of all of these beings in place, and each of them can do great, or terrible things to him if he offends them. “It’s alright nephew, they’re all under strict stipulations to not harm anypony.” Celestia said in a soothing voice. “I’m still scared aunty, what if I manage to anger one of them,or..” Blueblood tried to say, but Stendarr stopped him. “It’s alright, your fear is understandable, but we all have a sense of decency and respect, so as long as you continue to show respect to us, we’ll respect you.” Stendarr said patting him on the back. Sanguine was hogging the wine as it was in his nature. Mara was talking to Kai and Luna about conducting the wedding ceremony. Hircine regaled us with the glories of his hunts, and almost everyone was a little impressed by his feats. Shining Armor was talking to Clavicus who was trying to persuade him with a tempting offer, only to be interrupted by Barbas. Molag Bal stared at some of the maids with a sinister, yet perverted grin. Mehrunes Dagon just hated everything around him. Boethiah was trying to think of a way to usurp other rulers, much to everypony’s annoyance. Namira was eating her meal raw, as it was her nature. Vaermina managed to interest Luna with her realm of expertise of causing vivid nightmares to inspire artists. Sheogorath was throwing cheese wheels at Zenithaar from across the table. Zenithaar managed to throw a pie at Sheogorath who dodged it and the pie hit Celestia right in the face. Everypony fell silent as the pie fell from Celestia’s face. Many of the table’s occupants were trying to stifle their laughter, but she threw a cabbage at Zenithaar, who dodged it and hit Talos. “This means war, and not just any war, FOOD WAR!” Talos shouted as he took a platter of fruit and chucked it at Hermaeus Mora. The platter was caught in one of Hermaeus’ tentacles and he threw it back at Talos. This prompted Luna to flip the table over and take cover behind it and threw a slice of cake at me, the cake managed to hit her sister in the face. “Justice will be swift, justice will be painful, and it will be DELICIOUS!” The Solar princess shouted as she took the remains of the cake and shoved it into her mouth and ducked behind her section of the table and quickly wrote a letter to Twilight. “Dear Twilight, We are in need of assistance in a battle against the strangers from a distant dimension. Luna and I have been going through a dispute over opposite subjects and it began to spiral into conflict between us. I need you to help me defeat her and end a war that could spread into Equestria. Help me Twilight Sparkle, you are my only hope. Sincerely Princess Celestia” With her letter complete, Celestia sent it to her former student, leaving out the key information about the strangers in Equestria being the other Daedric Princes and the Aedra being in Equestria because of an enormous crisis about Kai’s native dimension. (Twilight’s Castle, Twilight’s P.O.V) As I was in the library reading a fascinating book about Dragons, Kings, and Queens, I was sent a letter from Princess Celestia herself because of the seal on the top of the scroll. “What’s going on?” I asked myself as I opened the scroll and read the content within the parchment. I gasped at what had happened and thought Celestia and Luna were actually fighting again. “Oh no, Looks like I need to stop Luna from trying to overthrow Celestia again.” I said as I went to find Spike to tell him not to expect me for dinner. I walked into the kitchen to see my number one assistant making dinner. “Spike, you don’t have to worry about making me anything, I’m heading off to Canterlot to settle a dispute between Luna and Celestia before it gets too out of hoof. I said with a smile. “Sure thing Twi. When do you think you’ll be back from Canterlot?” Spike asked as he looked at me looking like I was nervous wreck. “I don’t know. I mean, I need to find out what caused the argument, how I can resolve it, and ugh!” I groaned in irritation at how much work I would have to do to solve Luna and Celestia’s problem. ( Castle Dining Room, 20 Minutes Later) Both sides of this food war were bogged down and couldn’t peek their heads up from behind the table, until Twilight appeared in the middle of the carnage and was hit by lemon pie thrown by Celestia. When Celestia realized what she just did, she immediately hid behind her portion of the table. “What in Equestria is happening in here? It looks like the front lines of Prance during the War.” Twilight asked as she looked around the room seeing a tremendous amount of food on the floor, walls, tables, and ceiling. “Simple lass, we’re havin’ fun with our dinner.” Sheogorath said as he threw an apple at Mara. “Who are you, and what are you doing here?” Twilight asked as she started charging her magic. “Easy Twilight, Sheogorath is one of my Daedric colleagues, don’t worry.” Kai said as he peeked up from the table and tossed a salad at Namira. “But it’s getting all over the place and I’m not even going to ask who started this.” Twilight spoke out at this misbehavior. “True, but still come on Twilight just pick a side and join the war, if you join us you’ll be able to get back at Tia for hitting you with a pie.” Luna said with a sing-song voice. “As much as I want to get this pie out of my mane, I feel this will turn as badly as the battle at Haywaii. Besides who started this war anyway, Discord I presume?” Twilight looked skeptical. “Nope, Sheogorath started it, I tried to stop him, but he still pushed his plans forward.” Discord said as he glared at the Prince of Madness. “Alright, alright, can’t we just be adults and clean this up before the servants quit their jobs?” Twilight asked as everyone in the room looked at each other with disappointed glances at their childish behavior. “You’re right, I’m the Aedra of Logic, and here I am throwing food like a child.” Julianos said as he hung his head in despair. Twilight felt relieved that she had averted a devastating mess that could set a bad example for the Princesses. “So Luna sent me a letter saying that she had something to tell me, so that’s my reason for being here, so spill it what do have to tell me?” Twilight asked the Lunar princess. “Well, Kai has asked me to marry him, I said yes, and also Nirn is in complete shambles, so much so that both the Aedra, and Daedra were forced out of their respective dimensions and wound up here, so now we have to defeat Jyggalag and merge Equestria with Nirn in order to restabilize it.” Luna said with a nervous smile on her face. “Wow, that’s great for you Princess, I’m truly happy for you and what is about to become of us and hopefully everything… goes… fine.” Twilight accepted but towards the end she faints from the situation that there is still a danger to the dimensions of Nirn and Equestria. “Oh, no she fainted, we need to get her some water, or something to wake her up, please.” Celestia said as she worried for her former student’s well being. Sanguine walked over with a bottle of wine, which Luna took from him and poured the contents onto Twilight’s face while Sanguine just had a single tear escape his eye as he watched a tragic waste of perfectly good wine. Twilight’s eyes shot open as she started coughing from the wine being poured on her face. “What happened I had the strangest dream where Luna said that Kai’s world and Equestria were in danger and we’ll have to merge them together in order to save both worlds.” Twilight said as she tried to convince herself that this was all a bad dream. “Oh that was no dream lass, Nirn and Equestria are really in danger, and we need to defeat Jyggalag to prevent disaster.” Sheogorath said as his form started to change into a completely different person; James, the Hero of Kvatch. Twilight however was on the verge of panicking due to the fact that she has some, but not all the knowledge of Kai’s world. “Who are you?!” Twilight asked in surprise. “Oh, I’m sorry. My name’s James, formerly known as the Hero Of Kvatch.” James said with a bow. Twilight was beyond confused at this. “How can James and Sheogorath be the same being?” Twilight asked. “Simple, when I was still a mortal, I fought Jyggalag during the Greymarch on the Old Sheogorath’s behalf and my victory made me the new Prince of Madness, that and I had a pit of clowns at my disposal too.” James said as he recalled his transcendence into becoming Sheogorath. “Wow, Jyggalag must be a terrible Daedra then.” Twilight said in response. “Kind of, I mean he always tries to bring absolute order, when chaos is needed for there to be order, but take away the chaos, you just break up the order of the universe as a whole.” James said in response. “That makes a lot of sense actually.” Celestia said with a shocked expression. “Well enough with the pleasantries, I wish to see this world and what it has toffer.” Hircine said with eagerness. “I agree with pelt- head, I want to assert my own dominion here!” Molag said as he continued to look at the maids with his unsettling stare. “Hold on now, we have to abide by Celestia’s rules, or we don’t leave this castle at all!” James said matter-of-factly. “Fine, fine, fine we won’t hurt anyone, just intimidate them if they’re ignorant.” Akatosh said with a sigh of relief that for once in all of eternity the Daedra were cooperating with someone else. With that settled each Daedric Prince and Aedra went off to parts unknown to explore the world they would soon call home. (Three Days Later, Celestia’s P.O.V) I was glad to have Sheogorath/ James around to lift my spirits when I heard rumors that Molag Bal started making ponies into vampires, Hircine inducting Griffons into his legions, Akatosh becoming the leader of all dragonkind here in Equestria, etc. I was happy for my sister, but planning for her wedding and to save an entire world from certain destruction was quite taxing on my nerves. “What seems to have ya down lass?” Sheogorath asked as he appeared next to my throne. “Just all of this news about the others, Luna’s wedding, and the possible apocalypse of Nirn, it’s just too much for me!” I said as I felt tears stinging my eyes. “Hey, now ya ain’t alone in this, Jyggalag maybe strong and boring, but there’s one thing he can’t do.” The Mad Daedra said as he gently stroked my wing. “And what’s that?” I asked with a slight sob. “He can’t make friends.” He said with a smile. “Now c’mon and turn that frown into a smile, or I’ll turn your head upside down!” He shouted with glee. I giggled at his last statement. “I guess you’re right, but I wonder what Discord is up to.” I said with a mischievous grin. “Well aren’t you the naughty one, willin’ to start a prank war between me and him to get yer attention, that’s just CRAZY! And I LOVE CRAZY!!” He shouted gleefully as we teleported to Ponyville to mess with Discord. (Ponville, Discord’s P.O.V) I was enjoying a lovely Tuesday Tea with my dear friend Fluttershy and my newest friend, Treehugger. We just enjoying a lovely chat about the time I filled Celestia’s room with ‘cream custard and she was so upset that every time I came from my dimension, she would try and make me boil in her sunlight. It was all totally worth it and I actually thought it would have been romantic, but I’m not really good at that kind of thing. “Wow, man. To prank the Princess like that and be forgiven is truly radical.” Treehugger said with a smile. “It most certainly is, but wasn’t there something else you wanted to tell us about, like regarding Princess Luna, or something?” Fluttershy asked after she sipped her tea. “What? Oh right, she’s having her wedding or something or whatever cheesy rubbish soon.” I said as I lost my smile and became annoyed about how much of a big deal it was making. “Really?! That’s so romantic! Who’s the groom?” Fluttershy asked as she started to fly around the room like an excited filly. I only sighed in ignorance and replied. “Kai or whatever his name was.” Fluttershy’s eyes looked like they were going to pop out of their sockets. “Really?! Wow, that’s really nice, so what else do you have to share?” Fluttershy asked. “There is nothing left to share since I’m banned from the castle after I filled the Canterlot pool with jelly a month back.” I groaned and looked at my watch which read nearly two o’clock. “Well, as nice as this was I must be off.” I got up and walked toward the door. I opened the door to see Celestia and that loony Daedra standing in front of me. “What do you two want?” I asked in annoyance. “Discord, I personally want to say that your Canterlot ban has been lifted.” Celestia said with a smile. I was glad about this but I still looked at that show off with as much hatred as Sombra had for the Crystal Princess. “Ok, but why is HE here?” I asked pointing directly at the demented Daedra. “I’m here to meet some of Tia’s friends, does the mare known as Fluttershy live here? I’d very much like ta meet her.” My anger skyrocketed when he said that he wanted to meet Fluttershy. “Well sorry to disappoint you, but we were just wrapping up our Tuesday Tea and she and her friend, Treehugger have a trip to go on and won’t be back until after this whole mess has been cleared up.” I said trying to conceal my rage. “Aw dang, and here I thought I was goin’ ta meet the kindest, yet assertive pony in the world.” Sheogorath said as he hung his head slightly. I then felt as if fate is getting pay back on my chaos as the curious pegasus peeped out from behind. “Oh, Princess Celestia, it’s good to see you. Who’s your friend?” She asked as I saw Celestia smile at the pegasus. “Hello to you too Fluttershy, this here is Sheogorath, the Daedric Prince of Madness.” Celestia said as she pointed her hoof at that show off, who bowed in response. I then decided to show this imposter who really is the master of Chaos and disharmony. I flew a few feet in the air a with a simple snap I changed the sky from day to night. “Haha, not bad lad, but how ‘bout this…” The loony Daedra said as he made it rain cheese wheels. “CHEESE FOR EVERYONE!” The Daedra shouted with glee. “Simple grade magic, try this on for size.” I said as I then made a large cotton candy bunny that offers itself to everypony. I took a piece of it and ate it with satisfaction. “Impressive, but how about some flowers for the lovely pegasus?” He said as he summoned a bouquet of roses that squirted her with strawberry ice cream. “Hey no outsiders are allowed to be pranked!” I shouted in protest. “Rrreeaally, because I don’t remember any rules bein’ put into place.” He said as Fluttershy was laughing from the practical joke. I began to really hate this guy so I decided to step it up a little. I created a pasta tornado with tomato sauce and let it run rampant through the Everfree Forest. Fluttershy looked at the spectacle in abject horror. “Oh no, not the Temple!” Fluttershy shouted as the old castle that Celestia and Luna lived in after my first defeat got covered in pasta and tomato sauce. “Oh, my.” Fluttershy squeaked out before Kai appeared in the middle of the prank war with an angry expression on his face. “Who is responsible for THIS?!” He shouted in rage making it thunder. Everypony showed terrified expressions on their faces as they were clearly scared from the rage the Prince was showing and I was even horrified by this. “Well you see, the funny thing is that... “ I said trying to explain but instead I chickened out by literally turning into a chicken before I teleporting out of there I said. “Buck buck bakaw!” “Oh no you don’t, get back here before I really give you something to be afraid of Discord!” Kai shouted as he caught me by my tailfeathers and turned me back to normal. “I don’t care whose fault this is, but just clean this mess up!” The Prince of Morals hissed through his clenched teeth. I sighed with defeat as I snapped my lion paw fingers and everything was back the way it was before I flew down to the ground in shame. “I’m sorry about all this, I’ve just gotten carried away with my chaotic magic is all.” I said. “It’s okay, just remember that Sheogorath just wants to be your friend, because you two have a lot in common, so come on loosen up a bit.” Kai said before he teleported back to Canterlot. “I’m sorry you all got caught in this, I just felt jealous because I felt he was better at chaos than I am.” I apologized honestly. “It’s a-okay, laddy, considerin what Tia told me about ya, I can understand why you’d feel jealous, but I think that Miss Fluttershy seems to be quite attached to ya.” Sheogorath said as he gave me a glass of wine, which tasted just like cotton candy for some odd reason. “She has been the first friend I’ve ever had, but did Celestia ever tell you that there was a time I kept messing with Luna’s moon phases for the past three months, she was so p’d-off.” I smiled at the memory. “I’ve been tempted to turn it into cheese, but I found it too obvious that you’d be blamed for it.” Sheogorath said with a smile. “I really need to introduce ya to Haskill, my chamberlain, no tellin what he’s up to when I’m gone.” He said as we went back to Celestia and Fluttershy. I actually felt tempted to do at least one last trick just for laughs. “Want to see something really cool?” I asked everypony. They all nodded. I turned around and decided to get back at Luna for interrupting the best dream I had ever had, I raised the moon just for the ponies to see it and turned it into a marshmallow. Using a large stick to stick through the marshmallow moon, I then began to cook it using the sun’s heat. “Anypony hungry for a s’more?” I asked. Luna appeared in her prototype wedding gown and slapped me, turned the moon back to normal, then left. I only laughed after she left just how mad she was. “This never gets old.” I wiped a tear from my eye. > Chapter 13: Change is Good > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Griffon Kingdom, Gilda’s P.O.V) It’s been over three weeks since Rainbow and Pinkie helped me start to make friends around Griffon Stone. I was just relaxing in my nest until I heard screaming coming from the middle of our decrepit town. I jumped out of my nest and flew straight for the source of the screaming, it was my new friend, Greta, just screaming in absolute terror at something. “Greta, what’s wrong?” I asked worriedly. “G-gilda, l-look behind you.” Greta stuttered as she continued to shake in terror. I did as she asked and I saw a figure standing there. The figure was standing on two legs, had pale skin underneath thick fur, had antlers sticking out of his headdress, and held a spear in his right claw. The figure turned to see the Greta and me both staring at him. “The scent of fear radiates from you like the smell of a rose on a clear Spring day.” The figure said with a deep, intimidating voice. “I see you’re too afraid to speak. I take no offense. Not many are brave enough to look upon me in all of my glory, I am Hircine, Daedric Prince of the Hunt.” The figure, now known as Hircine said as he knelt down to us and extended his left arm. “My name’s Grizelda, Gilda for short, and this is my friend Greta.” I said as I hesitantly shook his claw. “I’m pleased to meet you little mortals, do you know what this place is?” Hircine asked. “Well, you’re in the Griffon Kingdom, in the town of Griffon Stone.” I replied. Hircine looked at the state of the town and seemed disgusted. “This town is in desperate need of a real leader, and I, Hircine, declare that you Gilda, are now the leader of Griffon Stone.” Hircine said with pride. “M-me?” I said really surprised. “Yes, simply because you faced your fear and stood your ground, rather than running away, only to trap yourself for the hunter. Rise my champion, and take my hide, ring, spear, and the place as Alpha of my Hunting Pack.” Hircine said as he took out a knife and cut his wrist allowing his blood to flow into a small bowl. “W-what are you doing?” I asked quite scared of why he was cutting himself. “If you’re going to be the new Alpha of my Hunting Pack, you must partake in the blood of the Father of Lycanthropy.” Hircine replied. “Lycanthro-what?” I asked. “Lycanthropy is the condition in which the afflicted turn into a magnificent predator, a Werewolf.” Hircine stated as I saw his wound heal itself all on it’s own. “So, if I drink your blood, I‘ll turn into a monster?” I asked. “That’s what the ring is for, to allow you to control your transformations.” Hircine explained. I was completely unsure about this, I was afraid of what I might become, probably something hideous,or monstrous. I swallowed up some courage and decided to go for it, for Griffonstone. The taste of Hircine’s blood was sweet, yet it felt like my throat, and brain were burning as I swallowed the last drop. I placed the bowl down on the ground and I felt like my heart was going to fly out of my chest and my body was changing. I felt my wings start to shrink into my body, my beak was turning into a muzzle and I felt something growing into my muzzle, teeth were growing in and they were as sharp as spears, I started to grow and change even more, until I howled to the full moon. “Ah, very good, the transformation is complete, come and see the glory I’ve blessed you with.” Hircine said as he held a mirror in front of me. I looked in the mirror and saw a silver furred wolf that had my eyes. I touched my face with my new set of claws and the reflection did the same. “I look badass!” I said in a slightly deeper voice, but still enough to know that I was definitely female. Greta however, looked at my new form in shock, seeing me this way made her pretty curious. “G-gilda, are you still ‘all there’?” She asked. I turned away from Hircine’s mirror to face her and I placed one of my hands upon her head. “Yeah, I’m still here, nothing really seems to have changed mentality wise, otherwise I’m completely different.” I said with a smile that showed off my new razor sharp teeth. “You look so cool and scary at the same time.” Greta said as she looked around my new form. “I know, I can’t wait to see what happens when I change back, I mean this is probably a once a day kinda deal, or once a full moon, something like that.” I said as I tapped my nose in thought.”Is it?” Greta asked Hircine. “It is a once a day transformation, but I would take caution when and where you transform, don’t want to become the prey of others now do you?” Hircine asked. I shook my head in response. “In that case rule over the Griffons with a firm, yet gentle hand and offer tributes to me in the form of prey you have killed so that I may grace you with my glorious blessings of enticing prey.” Hircine said as he faded from sight leaving me and Greta alone in the dark of the night. “Tomorrow I’m so showing this to R.D. and Pinkie, they’re gonna freak out!” I said as I admired my new features. (The next day, Ponyville, 3rd P.O.V) Another gleaming day in Equestria has everypony out and about to enjoy the glorious sunshine and warmth of the fascinating summer season. As normal and nothing out of the ordinary from what happened yesterday with the two chaos spirits wreaking havoc, Kai was just in his private study to focus on a few books to pass some time. “Ha, Daring Do is a good series. It reminds me of all of my crazy adventures throughout Skyrim and Tamriel.” Kai said as he finished the first book of the Daring Do series. As Kai was about to start reading the second book, a letter spontaneously appeared in front of him. “Oh, what’s this?” He asked as he looked at the small scroll. He opened it and found out that it was Hircine who sent him the message. “Ah, a new champion has been chosen, that’s great news.” Kai said as he read the rest of the letter and was stunned to see who Hircine’s champion was. “Dear Kai, It’s been awhile since we’ve last met and I hope you’re doing well. I however have a new champion I met in this world near a town called Griffonstone, her name is Gilda and she has quite the attributes of leadership as you have. After doing something most would refuse, she had became my new champion and I convinced her that she would be a great leader to her fallen town. Although she does want to make a quick stop to find her two friends by the name of Rainbow Dash and Pinkie as she called them, so be on the lookout. I’d hope to meet you someday in the near future. Signed, Hircine.” “Typical Hircine, but very effective. I’ll have to tell Rainbow and Pinkie that Gilda’s coming.” Kai said as he stood up from his chair and wandered off to find either Rainbow Dash and/ or Pinkie Pie. After walking out of his study, Kai went into town to search for Rainbow Dash, and/or Pinkie to tell them the news about Gilda. It didn’t take too long for Kai to find Rainbow Dash lying on a cloud after a hard day’s work. “Oh Dash, I have something to tell you.” Kai said as he looked up to see his rainbow maned devotee relaxing on her cloud. Rainbow was startled by her friend and cult master. “Sorry, ‘bout that I was just having a relaxing nap. So what’s the news?” Rainbow said with a smile. “Well does the name Gilda sound familiar to you?” Kai asked. Rainbow’s eyes went wide in shock. “G-Gilda?! I’ve known her since Flight Camp as a filly and she had been a real jerk to me and my friends when she came for a visit last time.” Rainbow said with a slight hint of surprise and anger. “But when we met again in Griffonstone, she changed when she saved me and Pinkie from certain death.” She continued slowly smiling at the memory. “Why do you ask?” She asked cocking an eyebrow. “It seems my friend, Hircine the Daedric Prince of the Hunt has made her his new champion and the new queen of the Griffons, and she’s on her way here to show you something that only disciples of Hircine can do.” Kai explained with a smirk. “She has no idea about me, or you and your friends being my disciples, so bring her to the temple so I can meet her.” Kai said before vanishing to go tell Pinkie Pie the same news. (Ponyville, Rainbow Dash’s P.O.V) After hearing that, about Gilda being someone’s champion, I was mixed with emotions from surprise, anger, and somewhat glad. I mean she was pretty cool when we first met and she may have been a complete jerk to my friends, but Gilda had shown she had changed after saving me and Pinkie back in Griffonstone. The best I can do is be glad for my first friend and give her my full support. I felt a strong gust of wind rush through my fur. I knew what it meant, it meant that she was near and was trying to get the drop on me. “Don’t even think about it.” I said flatly. “Aw, c’mon Dash, I came all the way from Griffonstone to visit and that’s the welcome I get? I think that nerdy friend of your has sucked all the fun out of you.” A familiar voice said from behind me. I turned around and saw Gilda with a sly smile on her face. “Long time no see, eh Gilda.” I said as I returned a sly look. “Yeah, so what’s new with you and Pinks?” Gilda asked. “Well my friends and I have a new master like you, but unlike yours he is getting hitched to Princess Luna.” I said as I motioned her to follow me towards the temple. “So what’s your boss like, is he mean, laid back, yet strict, or just completely detached from emotion?” Gilda asked as we walked into the Everfree Forest. “He’s laid back, but he has a fatherly kinda vibe about him where he’s not forcing us, but more or less guides us in the right direction.” I said as we reached the first checkpoint. “So what’s this?” Gilda asked. “This is one of our four trail checkpoints for our fellow followers, or lost traveler needing a safe place to stay.” I explained as I lit the pyre to signify our current position. “I see, but I would know this area like if it were the back of my hoof.” I said with confidence. “I bet you could.” Gilda said as she rolled her eyes. “I can, it’s just for safety reasons because up next is where most ponies get lost because of the fog, Kai, our master put in place to ward off unwelcome guests, but you should be fine, seeing as he wants to meet you.” I said as we walked further into the forest and down the marked path. I had to admit, it was far creepier than the Everfree Forest and it felt a lot more dangerous to get lost in these woods, but I wasn’t scared the least I set hoof into the woods. “So why would he set this kind of creepy stuff up if he values every one of you?” Gild asked. “Simple, not all of the Daedra are friendly towards each other, so they have to find ways to keep each other way from their respective temples or a battle of world ending proportions will ensue.” I explained as we got to the second checkpoint and lit the pyre to help clear some more of the fog. “Hircine seemed to regard your master with respect, so I’m guessing that they’re friends and welcome each other right?” Gilda asked. “Oh yeah. On his first day here he challenged me to a drinking contest, and I lost, but I kept my dignity as a strong competitor.” I said as we walked across the stone bridge where Steven Magnet lived. (Sanguine’s P.O.V) My bar was as lively as ever as I received order after order from one customer to another. I told stories, gave advice, and even hosted an occasional drinking game every so often. “Hey Berry, wanna play would you rather, drinking edition?” I asked my most attractive hostess Berry Punch with my signature drunken smile on my face. “You know me too well to know what I would say.” Berry replied after serving a customer a drink. “Alright, how ‘bout a million bits, but…?” I asked. “Fine, just as long as they’re work appropriate.” Berry said as she got some water and ice for a drunken mare across the bar. “Okay. You get a million bits, but for the rest of your life, whenever you try to lie you fart. Would you still take the money?” I asked. “You are so on, but let’s wait til closing time alright?” Berry asked as the clock struck around 5PM. “Sure. hold on a second. Everypony the bar officially closed at 8 o’clock please make sure to have a good time before then, and we are not responsible for any lost, or stolen items.” I said as I gave the bar’s weekly public service announcement. Three hours later, The bar closed up and locked its doors after everypony left for the night, except for myself and Berry Punch for our drinking game. “So would you still take the money, if you tried to lie you farted?” I asked once more. “No, I mean you don’t want to make a friend feel bad and stink up the room.” Berry responded with a smile. “Ok, you get a million bits, but for the rest of your life, you have to pantomime a serious decision.” Berry said. “Do you mean like, if I wanted to have sex with a mare, would I have to pelvic thrust in front of her to ask her to have sex with me?” I asked. Berry nodded. “Sure why not, it’s good practice for raunchy charades.” I said with a smile. We played our little game for about an hour until Berry felt like she needed to get some sleep. I smiled and carried her upstairs where she and I shared a bed. “I know what you guys are thinking, Berry and I just cuddle, I will not take advantage of her, unless she wishes it, I’m not Molag y’know!” I said to nobody in particular. “Who are you talking to?” Berry asked unsure of what I was doing. “Just addressing the loving audience, that nobody knows about.” I said as I lied down next to Berry. “Whatever, let’s just get some rest ‘kay?” Berry asked as she yawned and closed her eyes. (Canterlot Carousel, Garrin’s P.O.V) I was not feeling happy, despite having a mare that loved every fiber of my being. I just felt like something was missing, but what it was I couldn’t place. “Dear, are you alright?” Sassy asked as she came into the living room. “Actually Sass, I’m not.” I replied with a exasperated sigh. “Wanna talk about it?” She asked. “It’s about my home dimension, Nirn, it’s destabilizing to the point Equestria must merge with it to ensure the survival of every race, but it won’t be easy. I also want to see my old friend Haskill again. It’s been too long since we’ve seen each other.” I said as Sassy affectionately nuzzled me. “What do you think we can do to make you feel better?” Sassy asked embracing me. “Well we can just embrace each other in bed, or we could play one of my favorite games, two truths and a lie.” I suggested as I turned to face my marefriend. “How can I decide on just one, when I like both ideas?” She asked me causing us both to giggle in response. “Alright how about we cuddle in bed while playing two truths and a lie?” I suggested with a debonair smile. “Now that’s more like it.” Sassy said in response as she kissed me on my left cheek. I got up and carried Sassy as if she were my bride, even if I do plan on proposing to her after everything had settled down of course, all the way to our shared bedroom where we cuddled like newly-weds. “Alright I’ll start this off. I’ve been my master’s servant for nearly 2,300 years, I’ve been asked to kill usurpers, and defectors, and I fell in love with the manager of Canterlot Carousel. Which one is the lie?” I asked. “The assassin one is the lie, you have to stay with Kai.” Sassy said. “You know me all too well. Your turn Miss Saddles.” I said with a smile. “Alright. I once overstepped my authority as a manager and nearly ruined Rarity’s spontaneous career. I once had a crush on Prince Blueblood. I am in love with the kindest, most loyal Dremora the world has ever seen. Which is the lie?” Sassy asked. “I think the lie is that you once had a crush on that royal pain in the ass?” I asked with a questionable look with an added smile. “Correct. That douchebag would just scoff and laugh at me for even thinking he had a heart.” Sassy said as she craned her neck up to kiss me on the lips. (Canterlot Castle, Celestia’s P.O.V) After Sheogorath told me what happened between him and Discord, I was relieved they worked things out, but I also couldn’t help but chuckle at what they had done during their little chaotic spree. “I bet Discord and Luna will have a bit of a tiff after turning the moon into a marshmallow just to cook on the sun.” I said laughing. “Yeah, Luna did slap him in the face, while she was in her proto-gown, then left.” Sheogorath said as we sat side by side in the throne room. “I see, but still I know Discord meant well and he’ll do what it takes to get the last laugh.” I said. “I’m kinda the same too, the only difference is that I do most of my antics out of a random spasm, Discord does his when it suits him.” Sheogorath said as he playfully nudged my side with his elbow. “Even so, you two are still share more similarities than differences.” I said with a light blush emerging on my face. “True. So, have ya ever had a boyfriend, or coltfriend in the past?” He asked. “Discord was once a fillyhood crush, but when he started to get out of control, my heart was broken, and I haven’t fallen for anypony ever since.” I said as I felt tears sting my eyes. “Hey, no cryin’. A lady like you doesn’t need him when ya got a refined, and coincidentally insane Daedric Prince as your company.” He said as he wiped away my tears and hugged me tightly. I gave in to the embrace. “Thanks. I really needed that, my heart’s been broken for so long I’ve nearly forgotten what it’s like to love.” I said as I wrapped both my hooves and wings around him. “No problem, just remember to find me when ya need someone to talk to, I’m a good listener.” He said as we broke from our hug. “I’ll keep that in mind. Weren’t you going to send your servant Haskill somewhere?” I said as I noticed the posh looking Daedra standing on the left side of my throne. “Oh yeah. Haskill go spend some time with your friend Garrin, I’m sure he wants to catch up with ya.” Sheogorath said as Haskill bowed and disappeared from the room in a flash of purple flames. (Canterlot Carousel, Sassy’s P.O.V) After Garrin and I played our little game, he fell asleep with a smile on his face. I smiled at the sight and gave him a kiss on his forehead and got up to get some work done before the day was out. Surprisingly no clients came in so I decided to close early today. I turned the sign on the door from “open” to “closed” and then I heard a knock at the door. “Strange. Who would be coming here just after closing time?” I asked myself as I went to open the door. I was surprised to see another human standing in front of me. “Good evening ma’am. My name is Haskill. I am the servant of Sheogorath and I wish to know if Garrin resides here.” The man known as Haskill said politely. “Well hello Haskill. My name’s Sassy Saddles, and yes Garrin is here, but he’s currently napping, but you’re more than welcome to come in and wait for him to wake up.” I said as I stepped to the sid to invite Haskill inside. “Why thank you madam.” He said politely as he stepped inside the boutique. “So would you like anything to drink, or eat while we wait for Garrin to wake up?” I asked as we went into the “house” portion of the boutique. “Some wine and a bowl of fresh fruit would do very nicely, if it’s no hassle for you.” Haskill said with a smile. “No trouble at all, just make yourself comfortable.” I said as I went into the kitchen to get Haskill his wine and bowl of fruit. After gathering the finest and freshest fruit and wine in the kitchen, I brought it all back to the kind gentleman in the living room for him to dine on. “Haskill, I just wanted to say that it’s nice to have somepony that knows Garrin other than me, his master, or my boss Miss Rarity.” I said as I gently placed the wine bottle, glass, and bowl of fruit on the coffee table. “It’s no trouble at all madam, I’m just glad that he has friends other than me now.” Haskill said with a pleasant smile. After eating a few pieces of his fruit and drinking half his glass of wine Haskill looked at me curiously. “Is something wrong dear lady?” He asked. “It’s nothing. It’s just that I love Garrin so much that it pains me to think that he’s going to outlive me by thousands of years, and I don’t want to leave him.” I said with a frown on my face. “Ah, I see. You want to be immortal like us Daedra.” Haskill said. I nodded. “I just want to be there for him for the rest of eternity other than him just being with me for the rest of my life.” I said still looking down onto the wine glass. “Well there is a way, but you won’t like it, trust me on that.” Haskill said as he placed his glass on the table. “What do I have to do?” I asked curiously. “You’ll have to give your life to save mine, only then will you become immortal.” A familiar voice said from behind me. I turned around and saw Garrin standing behind me with a small smile on his face. “I see.” I merely responded, but deep inside I was terrified. I knew that if sacrificing myself for my lover will be an ultimate test for our relationship. “So Haskill, how’ve you been?” Garrin asked as he noticed our guest. “Just fine thank you, same as always.” Haskill said as he ended his sentence with a posh chuckle. (Moral Center Path, Everfree Forest, Gilda’s P.O.V) After entering the forest not too long ago, We’d arrived at some stone bridge where Kai mentioned somebody by the name of Steven Magnet. “So where’s that sea serpent dude?” I asked as I looked up and down the stream. “Is someone looking for me?” A voice said as a black object moved towards the bridge and rose up to meet us, what we saw was a purple sea serpent with orange facial hair. “Yeah just wondering where you were.” Rainbow said as she waved her hoof dismissively. “Oh, I was just at Flash Freeze Lake for lunch where I caught up with a good friend by the name of Cranky Doodle, so what can I do for you all?” Steven replied then asked us a question in return. “Nothin’. We’re just heading back to the temple to introduce this sour eagle to Kai.” Rainbow said as she pointed at me. “Hardy har Dash, can we please get moving that fog creeps me out.” I said as I saw the fog returning to cover the path behind us. “I’ll let Kai know of your presence, he’d be excited to see you two.” Steven said as we made our way to Kai once more and thankfully away from the creepy fog behind us. “So how much further?” I asked. “Just one more checkpoint to go and we’re there, oh and one thing you need to know is that Kai has a kind of butler guy, but he’s been staying in Canterlot for the last few days.” Rainbow said as we pressed onward towards the next checkpoint. “Is his butler guy really posh, or laid back?” I asked. “Garrin’s pretty proper, but mostly laid back.” Rainbow said as we walked to the next checkpoint. “Ok, so this is the last checkpoint right?” I asked. “Yup, after this we’re on temple grounds.” Rainbow said as we started off once more. We came to a stop when we got to a bridge that was over a chasm. “Here we are just past this bridge is the temple.” Rainbow said as she started to walk on the bridge motioning me to follow. After five minutes we finally reached the temple and saw a couple of guards standing watch. “Welcome home Sister.” A guard spoke in a calm tone. “Greetings Brother, this is our honored guest, make her feel welcome here.” She replied. The guards nodded and parted their spears for us to pass. “So the Brother/Sister is a mutual respect thing?” I asked. Rainbow looked at me with a slight blush on her face. “Yeah, that and here we’re all family.” She said as we walked into the throne room. The throne room was as grand as the Canterlot throne room with banners donning the symbols of the Daedric language, and stained windows telling stories of iconic points in history. At the far end of the room sat a throne that was surrounded by crystals that had an ethereal glow to them. “So this is the new Alpha of the Hunting Pack? Heh, I have to say that Hircine chose well.” The occupant of the throne said as he stood up from his throne. “Show me your form Huntress, and I will show you mine.” The Daedra said as he walked towards us. I let my mind go blank as I only thought of my new form and I changed from Griffon to my Wolf form. “Impressive, now it’s my turn.” The Daedra said as he changed into his Wolf form too, and his fur was silver while mine was a light brown. “That is soo cool.” Dash said in ‘awe’ as she gazed upon the Daedra’s form. “Oh, that’s not even the most awesome form I have, quick someone make me angry.” The Daedra requested as his form shifted back to his less hairy, but bipedal form. “Um, okay so, who’s your lover?” I asked unsure of what’s to come. “My lover is the one and only Princess Luna, and I am Kai, in case you’re wondering.” Kai said as he started to grow bigger, wings began to form on his back and his skin turned into scales. “Behold, the mighty Dovah! Yol Toor Shul!” He exclaimed and fire erupted from his mouth. “Soo Awesome!” Rainbow squeaked. I was awestruck, I knew that Hircine could appear as what he called ‘human’, but I never knew that the Daedra could turn into anything they desired. “Also if you still want to get angry to show us something awesome, Luna and I really hit it hard that one night, I mean she couldn’t stop orgasming for every ten minutes.” Rainbow said testing out how badly he would react. “Faas Ru Maar!” Kai roared in his dragon form and Rainbow was now running in absolute terror of him. “What was that?” I asked as I saw my friend running in terror. “That was the language of the Dragons; a Shout,or Thu’um. That particular Shout is called Dismay, and it’s useful for scaring off foes, but I know that Luna is very much still chaste.” Kai said was Rainbow started to calm down. “Man, you had me going there.” Dash said trying to regain her posture. “Yes, but enough showing off, it’s time to party!” Kai cheered as the rest of the temple was a cacophony of cheers and joy. The temple ignited into a party like a war had been won and the warriors were on their way home. “No pranks this time?” I asked. “No pranks for the new queen of the Griffons, don’t want you to be angry when you announce your claim, it’ll hurt your credibility.” Kai said as he gave me glass of wine. “If that’s the case, let us celebrate for the new ruler of Griffonstone.” Dash said as she grabbed a wine glass and toasted with Kai. After about two hours of celebration, the party had hit its peak to everyone having a great time. “Thanks guys really, it means a lot.” I said as I drank my wine and savored the taste. “Mmm, this is some good stuff, what’s in it?” I asked as I licked my beak. “It’s my own wine made from watermelon. If you’re wondering how I managed that, let me remind you that the laws of physics mean nothing to us Daedra, so if I want wine made from watermelon, then that’s what I get.” Kai said as he drank more of his glass. After a couple of glasses of Kai’s delicious wine, the door opened to reveal a demonic looking guy with a drunken smile on his face. “Oh Sanguine, how nice to see you. I’m actually surprised you managed to get here without falling into a hole.” Kai joked. “Hardy har, but seriously dude, tone it down there are some people trying to sleep, myself being one of them.” Sanguine requested politely. “Fine, but take this bottle of wine before you go and add it to you tavern’s selection, if it gets popular, I’ll send you kegs of it later.” Kai said as he gave the drunken Daedra his watermelon wine and led him to the door and closed the door. “Sorry everyone, party’s over, but we can do this tomorrow, or something.” Kai said as everypony gave out half-hearted cheers. “And you need to get some sleep so you can get home to claim your new throne.” Kai said as everyone started to clean up the temple. “Alright then, Catch you guys later.” I said as I flew off into the night to Griffonstone where tomorrow, I’ll be a queen.” I said to myself as I flew through the beautiful night sky. > Chapter 14: Visions of the Apocolypse > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Griffonstone, Gilda’s P.O.V) As the morning sun rose over Griffonstone, I felt confident in my ability to lead my fellow Griffons back to glory. “Time to move.” I said to myself as I stretched my wings, hind legs, and talons to help me wake up for a really big day. “Morning Gramps.” I said as I walked past my grandfather with a smile. The old griffon yawned in exhaustion before looking at me with astonishment. “Why Gilda, I’ve never seen you this lively since you got into Flight School in Cloudsdale.” He stretched out his back to hear a few pops coming from the spine. “You’ll see why I’m so happy Gramps, just watch and see.” I said as I flew off into the town of Griffonstone. I found most of the Griffons standing around the town square just going about their daily routines. The real disappointment was that my home was a terrifying shithole. “Things are about to change.” I thought to myself as I took a deep breath and headed for the old castle ruins. “Attention everygriffon, I’ve got something to tell you.” I said with a grin. All the griffons turned to see me and approached to hear what I had to say. “Well now that I have your complete, undivided attention. I am proud to announce that I Grizelda Behertz will be taking the throne of Griffonstone as Queen as decreed by our new deity, Hircine.” I said with a confident smile. I heard whispers of the crowd asking themselves if I was in my right mind. “Just who is this Hircine and why should we accept you as our queen?” A male griffon asked in a perplexed manner. “Hircine is the Daedric Prince of the Hunt, and has made me his alpha of his new hunting pack, and has made me queen.” I explained. “Prove that he exists, and maybe we’ll believe you.” A Griffoness said as she began to leave. “You will not go anywhere, weakling!” A dark, yet gruff voice echoed that gave the crowd a shivering fear that a god was angry. “Who was that? Come out and show yourself!” The Griffoness said as she looked around for the source of the voice. “Try looking behind you.” Hircine said through my body. The Griffoness looked behind and saw me but with a far more, possessed feature. “W-What?!” The Griffoness asked in pure shock as the rest of the crowd were just as stunned as she was. “Wait, this has to be some sort of joke. C’mon Behertz stop the act and make some damn sense!” She said sounding desperate to rationalize what was going on. “You will not speak to your new ruler this way! I have chosen her for her prowess at stealth, and might. I am Hircine and your people shall kneel to my champion, or suffer my wrath!” Hircine replied with vigor. The crowd of griffons were in complete terror and kneeled towards me, shivering in fright. “I demand you to obey her when I leave her, for she leads my hunting pack now. If you disobey or rebel against her, I will make you suffer!” Hircine said as I felt his presence leave my body. “Any questions, comments, or concerns?” I asked with a smirk. “No, Queen Gilda!” The crowd exclaimed as they kneeled in respect. “First order of business, we need to fix up this shithole we call home.” I said as I pointed out the ruins we called home. (Dreamscape, Kai’s P.O.V) It was a calm dream, just relaxing in the snowy foothills of the Throat of the World, and enjoying the beauty of the morning sunrise. All of that soon faded away to the lush, green beauty that was Equestria. I saw my fiance Luna smiling at me and stretching out her arm, inviting me to join her, but then she faded as well as the beautiful green fields and vast cities. They were all replaced by a crystal-like growth in the ground, the skies were gray, and dull, and the air was chilling, but not freezing cold. “What is happening? This is not how Equestria is supposed to be!” I shouted in complete disbelief. “This is the possible future if you should fail to defeat Jyggalag, good Listener.” A dark, yet familiar voice responded. “Sithis, what do you mean this is the future if I fail?” I asked as I saw a shadowy figure. “Exactly as I mean my child, if you should fail the world you now call home shall share the same fate as Nirn, and only pure absolute order shall exist.” Sithis replied as he appeared to my left. “How can I prevent this?” I asked Sithis. “Commune with your former Family for help, but don’t think that I’ll abandon you, I’ll visit you again after you’ve met the new Listener, but until then find solace with the one you love.” Sithis replied as his voice dissipated from the dreamscape. (Kai’s Bedroom, 3rd P.O.V) Waking up from that vision with Sithis, I felt the cold sweat drip from my face since it felt all too real of a nightmare. “I must prevent this, I must speak with my murderous, dysfunctional family, maybe they can help.” I said to myself as I wiped the sweat off my head and got myself ready for the day ahead. “The real question is: ‘Where should I start looking?’.” Kai said as he stretched to help him wake up. “Time to eat some breakfast and set out to find my crazy family.” Kai said as he went downstairs to the temple kitchen to get his breakfast. “Now let’s see here…” Kai said as he grabbed a bowl, some oatmeal, and brown sugar. Mixing the ingredients in his own style, Kai created the most delicious looking oatmeal and sprinkling in a little sugar for extra sweetness. “Perfect!” He said as he took a spoonful and ate it. “Hey, bossman what’s up?” Rainbow asked as she came into the kitchen for her breakfast. “I’m fine, just gettin’ somethin’ to eat, then I’m heading out and before you ask, no you can’t follow me to wherever it is I’m going.” He said as he ate his oatmeal. “Okay then, whatever you say.” Rainbow said as she grabbed some bread to create some crunchy toast with a side of butter. “I’m sorry, but this is just something nobody can ever know, otherwise, take a guess as to what I’ll have to do.” Kai said as he finished cleaning his bowl and left the kitchen and headed back upstairs to his room. Changing into his Dark Brotherhood attire and grabbing some daggers, a bow, quiver of arrows, and various poisons, and potions. “Time to go.” Kai said as he leaped out of his bedroom window and ran deeper into the forest to find the remainder of the Dark Brotherhood. (Unexplored region of the Everfree Forest, 3rd P.O.V) Trekking within the Everfree Forest to get to Ponyville should be a breeze, but when trekking to the unexplored regions of the forest, the dangers and risk could increase dramatically to the point of a suicidal walk, but for these five disciples of darkness, it was nothing to fear. “Agh! My head!” The redguard Nazir said as he clutched his head in pain. “This had never happened in the Woods in Falkreath or did we end up somewhere else?” A small girl asked as they began to suspect something was not right in their midst. “Babbette, Nazir, we don’t have time for this. Sithis gave us a task, I suggest we get to it.” A Dunmer said as she walked toward the little vampire and Redguard companion. “Cicero agrees with the Listener! The Dread Father’s will must be done, or we face his wrath!” The man dressed as a jester said as in a disturbingly cheerful tone. “Yes we must press on, or we wait for the previous Listener to find us.” The dark stallion named Shadowmere said catching everyone’s attention. “How are you able to speak?!” The group of assassins shouted in shock. “I can speak, it’s just that you haven’t been listening.” Shadowmere responded with a snuff as if he was insulted. “Enough dawdling, we must find the former champion of Sithis before it’s too late.” The voice of a Dunmer woman said in the mind of the Listener. “The Night Mother has a point, either we wait for him to come to us, or we can explore this place.” The Listener said as she used her fingers to number their options. “I don’t know about you, but moving the Night Mother would be a pain in the ass, so I say we wait.” Babbette said as she sat on a rock under the shade of a tree. “Opening that coffin was a pain in the ass, but I can’t imagine carrying it. Cicero I have no idea how you do it, but you can do what you want, but I’m staying here.” Nazir said as he sat down in the grass. “We don’t have anything to carry her in so staying here is our only option.” Shadowmere pointed out with a deadpanned expression. “So we’re all staying here? Fine.” The Listener said as she slumped against a tree. (Unexplored Region of the Everfree, Kai’s P.O.V) “This is a lot like the time I had to find the Falkreath Sanctuary the first time, only problem is that there’s no door to ask for a passphrase this time.” I said as I kept leaping from tree branch to tree branch to move as quickly as possible without encountering any of the local wildlife below. “Well I’m guessing Babbette is with them, so they’ll be out of the sun, so it would be better for me to be on the ground for the rest of my journey.” I thought as I jumped from a branch and landed on the forest floor flawlessly. “Time to put my skills to good use.” I said as I listened closely for any voices that resembled my ‘Family’. As I went further into the forest, I looked and saw the sun was in a lower position than originally was, meaning it was some time in the afternoon getting into the early evening. Using a little spell I learned called ‘Detect Life’, I was able to pick up on them somewhere in the area, but I cannot detect their exact locations. “If I can’t find them, perhaps I can make them come to me instead.” I said as I pulled out some materials for the Black Sacrament. “Now all I need is an effigy, but where am I gonna get…” I was cut short when a Chimera growled at me. “Perfect.” I said as I pulled out my bow and laced my arrow with a paralysis poison. I shot my arrow and it struck the snake portion of the creature making it fall to the ground in a state of complete paralysis. “I know you were just looking for a meal, but this is what happens when you try to sneak up on a master assassin.” I said as I prepared another arrow and shot the animal in the head, then I repeated the procedure two more times to kill the creature. “Now I have everything I need.” I said as I dragged the corpse of the chimera to my makeshift altar and began the Black Sacrament chant. “Sweet mother, sweet mother send our child unto me, for the sins of the unworthy must be baptized in blood and fear.” I chanted and sure enough I felt a gust of wind as I saw young Dunmer woman standing in front of me. “Greetings Listener.” I said with a smile. “Hello Brother, the rest of the Family, and the Night Mother are here in the next clearing, also my name is Talia, no need to always call me Listener.” Talia said as she smiled underneath her mask. “Good to know, I’m sure the Dread Father has already told the Night Mother about the current state of affairs right?” I asked as Talia nodded slowly. “He has, and as much as we hate to admit it, life is better when you’re screaming in terror at something.” Talia said as we walked towards their makeshift campsite. “Hello Nazir, Babbette, Cicero, Night Mother, and of course my old friend Shadowmere.” I greeted with a smile. “Well well, if it isn’t our old Listener. How have you been since you left us behind?” Nazir asked with a smile of his own. “Fine, I’ll tell you guys later, but for now let’s get out of here and set up a new Sanctuary for you guys to stay.” I said as I teleported us all to the outskirts of the Whitetail Woods. (Whitetail Woods, 3rd P.O.V) In the less creepy forest in Equestria that is known as the Whitetail Woods, Kai and the Dark Brotherhood emerged from a flash of light in a clearing. They took a moment to look at their new surroundings and it felt all the more peaceful than the Everfree. “I feel as if a weight had been lifted off us, it feels… relaxing.” Babbette said as she inhaled the more cleaner oxygen. “Yeah, that’s why it’s perfect for you guys to hide from the rest of society.” Kai said as he looked for a location to place a Sanctuary. “Maybe over in that small hillside would be a great place for the Sanctuary.” Nazir said as he pointed to a fallen tree next to a small overhang inside of a hill. “Perfect, just like Falkreath again!” Shadowmere exclaimed with joy. “Our gratitude goes beyond for what you’ve done, you’ve probably saved us.” Nazir said sincerely as the rest of the brotherhood nodded in agreement. “This isn’t the first time. Remember when we took the contract on Emperor Titus Mede II?” Kai said with a slightly cocked eyebrow. “Oh yeah, you definitely save our asses that time!” Babbette said as she remembered the tragedy of Astrid’s betrayal. “Enough about the past, now you guys deserve some answers about what I’ve been up to, but first let’s set you guys up.” Kai said as he rearranged the space inside and outside the hillside and placed the Black Door with the passphrase. “What is life’s greatest illusion?” The door whispered. “Innocence, my Brother.” Kai and the Dark Brotherhood replied. “Welcome home.” The door responded and unlocked. (Canterlot Castle, Luna’s P.O.V) I was filled with a slight feeling of uneasiness as the time for the battle of fate of both Nirn and Equestria were looming upon us. I even had trouble sleeping some nights, so much so that I was tempted to just appear next to Kai and cuddle with him until morning. “Everything is going to change, and I’m not sure I like it.” I said to myself as I left my room to go to Night Court and file some paperwork for some stuck up nobles. “Luna, are you alright? You look like you haven’t slept in a month.” Celestia said with concern. “No sister, I’m not alright. I’m worried about the future of our home, what if Kai isn’t able to defeat Jyggalag? What will become of our world?” I asked with a slight frantic expression. “Don’t worry, everything will be fine, just have faith in the man you’ll be calling your husband.” Tia said as she draped her wing around my shoulder. “Ok, now I have to get back to work. See you in the morning.” I said as I saw my sister leave the throne room. After about three hours I drifted off to sleep and entered the dreamscape. I saw that Equestria was untainted by Jyggalag, but I saw many other creatures here too. “What’s going on? Where am I?” I asked frantically. “Calm yourself child of the dark. For what you see is the future of your people and those of Nirn should the previous Listener succeed.” A voice said from every direction. “Who are you?! I demand you to show yourself!” I shouted. “I wish I could, but I have no physical form to show you, but I do have a name. My name is Sithis.” The voice said as I continued to look upon the scene before me and I saw Twilight Sparkle with her friends, but they looked different from what I knew. They had arms with hands and fingers, slender frames, well defined chests, and their feet ended with hooves. “So this what we’re destined to look like if Kai defeats Jyggalag?” I asked. “Yes, now before I depart from your subconscious, I have a message for you. The message is this: Guide my followers in the shadows, make them your Children of the Night.” Sithis said as he made the image of a black handprint appear in the ground in front of me. After I awoke I knew my mission was clear. I must find the followers of Sithis and make them obey me. “Thank you Sithis, now to find my new Children of the Night. I said as I spread my wings and took to the cool night sky. > Chapter 15: A New Matron > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Whitetail Woods, Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary, 3rd P.O.V) After hearing the events of what had happened with Kai and his dealings in Equestria, to say that the members of the Dark Brotherhood weren’t dumbfounded would be untrue. “And so Luna and I will be married after this all blows over. Any questions comments, concerns?” Kai asked as he looked around the room to see the Dark Brotherhood stare at him with their mouths wide open. Once they regained some composure, Talia was the first to speak. “After hearing this, I’m willing to bet that this world has prospered without the need for violence, but soon that will change .” The Dunmer said with sly smirk on her face. “Perhaps, but don’t be deceived, this world may seem peaceful, but it has been host to violence before.” Kai said with a knowing smile on his face. “Really? Now that’s something I want to….” Nazir started, but was interrupted by the sound of a heavenly voice. “Everyone listen. I hear the most beautiful voice outside.” The Redguard said as he listened to the sound of the beautiful singing outside. “I know that voice.” Kai said as he listened to the voice singing. (Luna’s P.O.V) I flew down from Canterlot and into Ponyville to seek out my new followers, but Sithis never told me where they were, so I had assumed it would be in a location I was familiar with. “I need to find a way to locate them.” I thought to myself. Then an idea came to my mind. “I’ll use my voice to bring them to me.” I said with a smile as I cleared my throat and took a deep breath and began to sing. As I sang I felt I was succeeding in my endeavour to lead the Dark Brotherhood to me. I heard a door open up and I saw six figures exit a small outcropping in the Whitetail Wood. I saw a little girl, a jester, an elven woman, a dark stallion, and two men. One of the men had tan skin, but the other looked vaguely familiar to me, but I didn’t know how. “Luna?! What are you doing here?!” The pale human asked in shock. “Kai, my love, why are you with the Dark Brotherhood?” I asked my fiance. “It’s because I used to be their leader, the Listener, before I became a Daedric Prince.” Kai said as he removed his hood. “I see, so aren’t you going to introduce me?” I said as I looked at the other five members of the group. “Right. The girl is Babette, she’s a vampire, The tan man is Nazir, a Redguard, the Jester is Cicero, the stallion is Shadowmere, and this beautiful example of Dunmer beauty is Talia.” Kai said as he pointed to each member of the group. “It’s a pleasure to meet you all.” I said as I made a small bow in respect. “It’s nice to meet you too Princess.” Talia said with a smile. “Likewise, but there must be a reason you’re here other than to meet us.” Babette said as she crossed her arms. “Yes there is. You see as I was dreaming earlier this evening, I was contacted by Sithis. He told me that I am your new mistress.” I said with an endearing smile. “Sithis eh? Well guess he can still come up with some clever surprises. if what you say is true, do you have any type of evidence to prove your claim?” Nazir asked. “I do perhaps if I remain silent and think, if Talia can hear my thoughts, then I am your new mistress. Does that sound fair?” I said looking at Nazir. “Sounds fair.” The Redguard replied. I stood silent thinking of my favorite memory of Celestia and me as fillies. “Aw now that is cute.” Talia said with slight giggle. “I trust you could hear her thoughts Listener?” Cicero asked in his high-pitched voice. “I did, she has truly been touched by the Dread Father, her rule is absolute.” Talia replied as she kneeled to me. “Rise dear child of mine.” I replied in a motherly tone. “We humbly welcome you as ‘Mistress of the Dark Brotherhood’.” Nazir said as he bowed in respect with the other three to following him. “Rise my children, and always remember I am with you.” I said as I took to the skies once more to head back to Canterlot to lower the moon. (Canterlot Castle, Celestia’s P.O.V) As it was time to raise the sun to start a new day, I was on my way to see if my sister was ready as well. But upon entry into her room, She was not there. “Where did she go this time, this isn’t the first time she had been late to lower the moon.” I thought as I looked around her room. Then as I was leaving the room, Luna landed on her balcony looking a little tired, but otherwise happy. “Luna where were you last night?” I asked. “I went to greet my new subjects dear sister, now let’s get some breakfast and we can discuss it.” Luna said as she yawned. “Alright, let’s go.” I giggled as we left Luna’s room and went towards the dining room to find Sheogorath in his other form; James the Hero of Kvatch sitting there waiting patiently. “Why if it isn’t the princesses finally arriving to join us for a fine breakfast.” Sheogorath or James said as we entered. “It’s nice to see this gentle, more sane side of you, perhaps I should use it to my advantage.” I said with a wink. “Oh, not on the first date Celestia, but perhaps after about the second or third.” James replied as he used his magic to pull out seats for Luna and me. “Such a gentleman.” I said with a sly grin forming as floating dish trays of food floated to the table. “Yes, and I see that the blushing bride to be is here too.” James/ Sheogorath said as Luna sat down in her seat. “Yes, now let’s eat I’m starving.” Luna said with a cute whine. “As you wish.” James said as the dishes descended onto the table to reveal all the good food that is called breakfast. As we ate Luna explained that the entity known as Sithis has made her the new matron of an organization of assassins known as the Dark Brotherhood. “Interesting Luna, perhaps you can use them as spies for our military, while they can still carry out their standard practices so long as they don’t come after anypony important.” I said as I took a sip of tea. “Of course Tia, I’ll inform Talia of their new role alongside being assassins.” Luna said as she ate a piece of toast, then remained silent for a moment. “She said they’ll do it, as long as we pay them just a bit more than what they’re used to.” Luna said as she drank her tea. “How much do they usually get?” I asked. “Usually 100-200 gold coins, or bits.” Luna said as she wiped her face with her napkin. “That’s about 100 bits less than a Royal Guard, tell them they’ll be paid at least 300-400 bits for their services, and complete immunity from the law, as long as their 'business' doesn’t end up in the public eye.” I said with a stern expression. “I think they know that part dear sister. The whole point of being an assassin is to make sure your work isn’t discovered.” Luna said as she rolled her eyes. “Point taken, now I believe you have some wedding planning to do today don’t you?” I said with a smirk. “Ah, yes I have to see Sassy Saddles about my wedding gown fitting, then I have to meet up with Pinkie about the catering.” Luna said as she finished up her food and teleported to her bathroom to freshen up. “Little sisters are always so cute when they’re embarrassed.” James said as he nudged my shoulder. I merely rolled my eyes in response as I helped clear away the empty dish trays. “While I agree with you on that, I think we should take it easy on her because she’s under a lot of stress from planning her wedding.” I said as James walked by my side. “I see, but I hope it all goes well for her in the end, same with the inevitable battle.” James said as his smile faded into a worried expression. “You and me both Sheogorath, you and me both.” I said as I looked to the doors of the throne room. > Chapter 16: Regrets From the Past > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Canterlot Castle, James/Sheogorath’s P.O.V) It was a beautiful evening, the sky was clear, the moon shone bright in the sky, and the stars glimmered in the sky. “Ah, Life is a wonderous thing.” I said as I felt a breeze rush across me. I continued to bask in the beauty of Luna’s masterpiece called the night sky. “We remember James.” A whispering voice said. “Who said that?” I asked as I looked behind me for the voices’ owner. “You can’t hide from the truth.” Another voice said. “What the hell is happening?” I asked as I continued to look to my sides and behind me. “Isn’t it obvious, Brother?” A particularly familiar voice asked. “Lucien?” I asked as I opened my eyes in realization. “Yes. You remember don’t you?” Lucien’s voice asked. “I do, although I sorely wish I didn’t.” I replied with sweat pouring down my face. “Well I guess having remorse whilst silently killing your own family can drive one quite mad.” Lucien’s voice retorted. “What do want from me?!” I yelled out in a frantic manner. “Who wants something from you?” Another voice asked. I quickly turned around and saw Celestia without her crown or golden slippers. “Oh Celestia, how’s it going?” I asked the the solar alicorn. “I was sleeping until I heard somepony shouting.” Celestia said with a concerned expression. “Sorry about that.” I said while rubbing my neck in embarrassment. “Is there something you wish to talk about James?” Celestia asked as she walked up to my side. “Actually there is.” I said with a deep sigh. “You see when I was still a human, I was also a member of the Dark Brotherhood at the time, I was happily doing our duty to Tamriel when I received a message from my mentor, Lucien Lachance, to visit his Fort just outside of Cheydinhal. I was made his Silencer and had to kill my own brothers and sisters at our Sanctuary in Cheydinhal on suspicion that one of them were killing off other members of the Brotherhood. I completed my task with little joy, but took comfort knowing I was saving the other members of the Brotherhood and serving Sithis, our Dread Father. I took on more dead drops after that, and that’s where it all went wrong. After my seventh dead drop, Lucien approached me and told me I was a dead man. He told me I had been wiping out members of the Black Hand since my second dead drop. He eventually saw how confused I was and decided to spare me. He told me they thought he was the traitor and had to go into hiding, and it was my job to find the traitor. I found evidence, but when I went to his hiding place, Lucien was killed by the Black Hand, they told me they didn’t blame me for his crimes and I was the new Speaker. Matthew Bellemont killed two Speakers at the Night Mother’s Crypt, I killed him and was made Listener for my loyalty. But knowing I killed my friends and family for nothing… I’ve hated myself ever since.” I said as I felt tears streaming down my face. “I was ordered to do it by Sithis, and his word is law, so I had no choice.” I said as Celestia managed to hold me close to her as I cried. “Shh, it’s alright, it was a long time ago, I think it’s time to let it go.” Celestia said as she wiped away my tears and planted a kiss on my cheek. “Thank you Celestia, it means a lot.” I said smiling a little. “No problem, I’m sure if you lie down with me for the night, you’ll be better in the morning.” Celestia said with a sultry tone. “I’d think it would help a lot my Princess.” I replied as I caressed my hand on her cheek. Celestia giggled as she went back into her room and motioned me to follow. She laid down in her bed and patted the empty side with her hoof. I climbed into the bed and Celestia draped a wing over me and smiled. “Sleep well, my Prince of Madness.” She said sweetly. “Goodnight my princess.” I replied as we both fell into a peaceful slumber. (Dreamscape) I found myself in the Imperial City in Cyrodiil. The city wasn’t in ruin yet, so that must mean that this was when I made the choice I would forever regret. “What’s happening?” I asked myself as I looked around. “This place is beautiful James, what is this place?” I heard Celestia’s voice coming from behind me. “Celestia? What are you doing here?” I asked in complete surprise. “While Luna was still banished I took over her duties as the Warden of the Dreamscape, so I’m here to help you if I can.” She said with a reassuring tone. “I appreciate it, but I think I know what to do, I must do this without regret… what I’m about to do.” I said with a determined expression. “I understand, but before you carry out your task, what is this place?” She asked curiously. “This is the Imperial City in the province of Cyrodiil.” I said as I gazed upon the sun setting in the distance. “It’s very beautiful, I hope I can see it someday, now let's get this over with.” She said. I nodded and we went to the Sanctuary in Cyrodiil. After arriving at the Sanctuary, I said the password and entered with Celestia, she waited at the entrance. “Are you sure you want to watch me do this?” I asked. “Do what?” she asked. “Just look away if you want.” I said. I took a deep breath and readied my dagger, The Blade of Woe for a murder spree, but this time I had no intention of regretting this later. My first target was Teinavva, brother to Ocheeva, the Sanctuary’s overseer. He was sitting, reading, I went behind him. “Ah! Brother! How are you today? Congratulations on your assignment from Lucien!” He said. “The Dread Father awaits.” I whispered in his ear as I slit his throat ear to ear. “Goodbye Brother...” I said and walked away. The last time I did that, I cried. This time I knew that what I was doing I was doing because fate intervened. I had no choice, I could have disobeyed Lucien, but I would’ve been killed and the traitor would have kept operating and possibly killed the entire Brotherhood. My next target was Gogron gro-Bolmog, an Orc. I crept into the sleeping quarters/dining room and skillfully replaced all food in his satchel with a poison apple, I had just about placed the apple before he reached into his bag. “Ah! Brother! Lucien must think you’re special! Good for you! Want a bite of my… apple? I thought I had more food in here… ah well! Want some?” he asked and cut me a slice. In the past I had always accepted food… “Sure...” I said, sat down and I took a bite and so did he, but where he swallowed, I spat mine out. “Come on Brother it’s just an...” he started before he choked on his own blood. “Apple?” I asked as he fell off his stool, he grabbed the table and pulled himself up slightly, looking at me as I just sat there. He then fell down, dead. Next was M’raaj-Dar, the guild’s merchant. He used to be horrible to me, calling me an ape, but once Lachance took an interest in me he changed, calling me his best friend, which made it all the harder to kill him. This one, ironically, was the simplest. “Brother! What happened to Gogron?!” he asked. “I don’t know! I just found him like this!” I exclaimed, lying of course. “I’ll tell Ocheeva!” he said. “No! You stay here in case the killer comes back, I’ll see Ocheeva.” I said. He was next to Schemer, the Sanctuary’s rat. I cast a fury spell on Schemer and he jumped on M’raaj, tearing him apart. His screams echoed, but that was nothing new in the Sanctuary so it went ignored. Next was Telaendril, the Bosmer. she was leaving the Sanctuary in about 5 minutes, I climbed the ladder first and waited the top… I saw her climb up. “Oh, brother! Good to see you! Good job with Lucien! If you could just move...” She said, I let her up, as she balanced on the wall of the well i pushed her, she screamed as she fell and I heard a sharp, crack! As she landed, I looked down the ladder and saw her neck broke. “Huh, lucky break… get it?” I said, maybe Sheogorath had more of an effect on me than I thought… I slid back down the ladder and saw Ocheeva staring at the corpse… “I just saw her fall as I walked up!” I exclaimed. “Oh my...” She said. “Yeah, damn...” I said… “We should head to your room and figure out what we should do...” I said. “Yes, you’re right, come on.” she said and led me into her quarters. “She was a Bosmer, they don’t lose their balance easily… maybe she was sabotaged!” exclaimed Ocheeva, sinking into her seat in realisation. I walked around to the back of her. “Maybe.” I whispered, stabbing her neck with my blade, she bled and tried to grab me in vain. Suddenly Antoinetta Marie walked in, looking at papers. “Ocheeva, I just wanted to run these by you-” she cut off as she saw me. With lightning quick reflexes I took out a Silver Dagger I kept on my shin and threw it, hitting her forehead, killing her instantly. “Last but not least...” I said, taking a breath… My other mentor was next, he made me a vampire and introduced me into the Brotherhood, made me comfortable, he was like a father to me… I snuck into his chambers from the manhole in Ocheeva’s quarters that led into his I approached his sleeping body and raised The Blade of Woe… I stabbed down but he caught my hand with his own two, he was managing to keep me at bay… I took out a clove of garlic and shoved it in his open mouth, causing him to cough and become distracted, I managed to pierce his heart with my blade and he was dead… this time, instead of sinking against the wall, crying, I took a breath of relief... At the end of my string of murder, I felt great, like all of those years of sadness and regret just vanished. I turned and saw Celestia at the entrance to Vincente’s quarters, she had her mouth open. “There.” I breathed. “That was… impressive yet scary...” She said. “I was made Listener for a reason. Because I was, and still am the best assassin as proved that I just killed 7 highly trained killers, they were more experienced than me.” I said. “Well? Feel better?” Celestia asked with a smile. “I do, but now I have to confront Luna, Kai, and the remaining Dark Brotherhood members, and pray they forgive me.” I said as I felt the morning sun creeping over the horizon, ending my dream. (Celestia’s P.O.V) I awoke from my sleep to raise the sun. It pained me to leave my Prince of Madness alone in his time of need, but I had a duty to fulfill. I gave him a quick kiss on his cheek before I left the room and out onto the balcony to raise the sun and start the day. I focused my magic on raising the sun to give the horizon a golden-orange color in the sky. The warm rays touched my face and it felt as if I was being hugged by someone close to me. I did however hear the bedsprings creak as the Master of Madness arose from his slumber. “Good morning, my dear Madness Bringer.” I said with a blissful tone as I still felt the warm rays of the early sun on my face. “Mornin’ to you too, my beautiful Sunrise.” James said as he gently massaged my left wing with one of his hands. I couldn’t help but moan contentedly at his touch. “You like that don’t you?” He asked as his voice started to change to his more demented self. “Uh James, are you feeling alright?” I asked a little concerned about the sudden voice change. “I’m fine lass. Besides, did ya really think that James would stay forever?” The changing voice said. My eyes widened in realization. “Sheogorath?” I asked with a slight squeak of fear. “The one and only. I really have ta say Tia, ya really helped out James with his regrets. I prefer to see him happy, rather than mopey.” Sheogorath said with a smile. “What are you talking about?” I asked turning around to face the being. “Ya see, when James kicked Jyggalag’s sorry arse during the Greymarch he and I fused together, forever separatin’ me from Jyggalag, and makin’ me my own man... or Daedra as it were.” The Prince of Madness said as he playfully pressed my nose. “Boop.” Sheogorath said as he smiled at me endearingly. “So you’re a part of him and there is nothing for you to retain your own physical form?” I asked. “Nope! You’re stuck with us forever!” He said as he leapt out of the bed and landed gracefully giving a bow. I giggled at his performance and got out of bed myself and we walked to get some breakfast and plan the greatest battle Equestria had ever faced. > Chapter 17: Fate of the Universe-Part 1: The Crazy Plan > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary, Whitetail Woods, Kai’s P.O.V) I awoke to the beautiful sight of my beloved mare still in her peaceful slumber. I smiled and gave her a loving peck on her cheek. “I love you.” I whisper in her ear. Her ear twitches and a smile spreads across her face, knowing that she heard what I said. I softly chuckle and lie back down and hug her tightly. Luna begins to stir from her slumber a bit. “What did I do to deserve this treatment?” She asked with a short yawn. “Simple, you agreed to marry me, so I must give you such treatment.” I reply with a smile. Luna giggles and cranes her neck towards me for a kiss. I lean down and kiss her lips. I feel the softness of her fur and deepen the kiss. After breaking our liplock, I sigh dejectedly. “What’s wrong?” Luna asked with a slight frown. “Today, we gather an army to decide the fate of two dimensions and all who live in them. I must tell you that I’m terrified of what may happen, because I don’t know if we can win against Jyggalag.” I say with tears welling up in my eyes. “Hey, it’s ok. You’re not alone in this fight, you have me, Tia, all of your followers, friends, the Aedra, and the Daedra.” Luna says with a smile, which reassures me. “You’re right, but still even with all of our allies, we can’t leave out the fact that Jyggalag will be expecting us.” I stated matter-of-factly. “True, but there’s one major difference between us and him.” Luna retorted. “And what would that be?” I asked curiously. “Courage, understanding, and above all, love.” Luna replies as she pecks my cheek. I chuckle at my mare’s statement. After I hug her tightly my thoughts began to drift back to my time in the Dawnguard. Luna noticed my silence. “What are you thinking about?” She asked. “I just remembered a place we could theoretically gather an army large enough to challenge Jyggalag.” I replied. “Really? Well what’s it called?” She asked with a smile, but when she noticed that I wasn’t smiling, she relaxed her face. “It’s called the Soul Cairn, and it’s a place I’m not to fond of.” I said with a sigh. “Why aren’t you fond of it love?” Luna asked with concern. “Ok, you remember what I told you and everyone else about enchanting, and soul gems?” I asked. Luna nodded in response. “Well what do you think happens to the soul that was trapped inside the soul gem?” I asked. “I, I don’t know.” Luna replied. “Well the poor soul ends up in the Soul Cairn, and let me tell you that it’s not really a positive place to be.” I said with a slight chuckle. “I feel sorry for all of those poor souls, but it still should prove useful.” Luna said. “Yeah, but now if we want to use this place as our recruiting ground we need to get there first and there are two methods. One is to become a vampire, since they’re not counted among the living, or…” I pause at the second option trying to figure out how to explain it. “Or what?” Luna asked curiously. “The second option is to become partially Soul Trapped, placing your essence in a Life Essence Gem as a payment to allow entry. You’ll still be alive, just slightly weaker than normal, and after we’re done we can retrieve the gem and use it to enter and exit the Soul Cairn as we please.” I reply with a smirk. (Luna’s P.O.V) I was shocked that a place like the Soul Cairn existed. In all honesty I’ve always wondered what happened to the souls trapped in soul gems, but now I wish I didn’t. After my beloved finished his explanation for our second method to enter the Soul Cairn, I was now deeply concerned for anyone who ended up there. “I hate to say this, but we have little, to no choice, we’ll need their help.” I said with a slightly stunned expression on my face. “Is there anypony there who could be of help to our cause?” I ask curiously. Kai becomes silent, but then smiles. “I know who to talk to; the Ideal Masters, maybe we could make a deal with them to get the help we need to take on Jyggalag!” He said with an enthusiastic smile on his face. I felt Kai pull me closer to him. “If you hadn’t asked that, things would’ve been much worse.” He said as he pecked my cheek. His gesture of affection makes me smile at him. After we go through our morning routines, we head into the dining hall of the Sanctuary to discuss our plans with the Dark Brotherhood. After explaining our; admittedly crazy; plan, Talia decided to break the silence. “So let me get this straight, you two came up with the idea to create a portal to a realm of existence, where the souls of the dead reside after being Soul Trapped, convince the leaders of said realm into helping us take back our home? Is there anything I’m missing?” Talia asked after finishing her summary. “Well you did leave out the part where only those who’ve been partially Soul Trapped, or are vampires can enter and exit without issue.” The little vampire girl, Babette stated. “Right, thank you Babette.” Talia said while Babette smiled and continued to eat her meal of raw fish. “So what’re we going to do?” Nazir asked. “Simple, we bring this to my sister’s attention, and then we ask Molag Bal if he has any vampires to spare so they can accompany Kai to the Soul Cairn.” I reply making the assassins look at me and nod in agreement. Kai lightly taps my shoulder and motions his head towards the main chamber of the Sanctuary to speak to me alone. I nod and follow him out. “So, are your new assassins coming with us, or are they staying here?” He asks with a mischievous smile. “I think it would be a welcome change for them.” I reply with a smile of my own. We return to the group of assassins to give them their new instructions. Talia, Nazir, Babette, Shadowmere, and Cicero all look at us for confirmation. “We leave for Canterlot in five minutes. Gather your gear and then we’ll leave. Is that clear?” I ordered in an authoritative tone. “Yes, Night Mother.” The group replied as they got up from their seats to gather their weapons, poisons, etc. After they gathered their belongings, we all stood in the central chamber of the Sanctuary, Kai snapped his fingers and we found ourselves enveloped by the ethereal bluish-purple flames of his teleportation spell. (Canterlot Castle Throne Room, Celestia’s P.O.V) I was sitting in my throne with my Prince of Madness sitting in Luna’s throne as we had the other Daedric Princes, with their respective champions, and the Aedra. We were all waiting for Luna and Kai to arrive since Trixie, Cheerilee, Haskill, and Garrin were already present. “Where is he?” Molag Bal asked in an impatient tone. I was about to answer, but then the familiar bluish-purple ethereal flames Kai always had when he teleported appeared. Once they died down we saw Kai, Luna, and a group of people dressed in black and red light armor with a handprint on the chestpiece. “Sorry we’re late, but we have a plan to get an edge over Jyggalag.” Kai said as he took his place next to his champions. “Is that so?” Arkay asked. “Yes, but you won’t like it because it involves the Soul Cairn.” Kai said with an exasperated sigh. The entire room became silent at the mention of the words “Soul Cairn”. I decided to lean over to Sheogorath to have him explain what this Soul Cairn was. “What is the Soul Cairn?” I whispered into Sheogorath’s ear. “You know how soul gems capture souls of living beings?” He asked in response and I nodded in return. “Well the Soul Cairn is where those poor souls go once the gem they were in gets used to empower the enchantment on a weapon, or armor piece.” He explained. I nodded in understanding allowing him to continue. “The only way to even be alive in that place is to be turned into a vampire, or be partially Soul Trapped. If the second option is chosen, then the person will still be alive, they’ll just be a bit weaker until their Life Essence Gem is retrieved.” He concluded. I was shocked to know that a place like that even existed, but the souls had to go somewhere I suppose. “Have you lost your mind?!” Meridia shouted breaking me out of my trance. “Look I don’t like it either, but we need all the help we can get, plus if the Ideal Masters agree to help us, then Durnehviir will help provide air support with his kin.” Kai responded calmly. “What do the rest of you guys think?” Julianos asked after Meridia calmed down. “I think it makes logistical sense, it makes use of a resource that Jyggalag is most likely neglecting.” Talos said earning nods of agreement from everyone else in the room. “Excuse me, but I think we’re missing some ponies here.” Molag’s champion, Queen Chrysalis, stated when she didn’t see Shining Armor, or Princess Cadence in the room with the group. I saw that she was right, we would need my niece’s input on this, but seeing the Changeling Queen might make her very upset, but her discomfort is secondary at this point. “You’re right. Sheo, can you..” I was interrupted when Sheogorath disappeared then reappeared with Shining and Cadence beside him. “Thank you.” I said in a surprised tone. “No problem lass.” Sheogorath said as he took his seat next to me once again. (Cadence’s P.O.V) I know that I’ve had some odd things happen in my life, but this one takes the cake! I mean one minute Shining and I are just having a nice picnic in the Crystal Palace garden, then all of a sudden that crazy Daedra guy, Sheogorath, just appears, grabs me and Shining and now we’re in Canterlot sitting in the throne room with all of the Daedric Princes, the Aedra, and what I’m assuming are the Daedric Prince’s respective champions. One champion, however catches my attention. “What is she doing here?!” I ask Aunt Celestia with an angry glare. “Calm down Cadence, Chrysalis is Molag Bal’s champion, so she has a right to be here.” Aunt Celestia replied. “Fine, I’ll let it go for now.” I said with an exasperated sigh. “Alright now that we have awkward reunions out of the way, let’s bring our latecomers up to speed.” Malacath stated. “Agreed. Pay attention, because we’re only going to tell you this once.” Peryite said as Shining and I nodded in understanding. After a semi-detailed explanation about the plan to take down Jyggalag by using a place known as the Soul Cairn, I had to agree with Kai’s train of thought, since Jyggalag would probably disregard the Soul Cairn as a useful resource because of the Ideal Masters always wanting a form of compensation. “So let me get this straight, we’re considering on entering a dimension where the souls of the dead reside after being Soul Trapped, just to persuade these Ideal Masters to help us and we get an army that has possibly billions of warriors just to defeat Jyggalag?” Shining asked making sure he was hearing this correctly. “Yes.” Everyone said simultaneously. “Well I think we could use as many allies as possible, since we will be facing hordes of Dremora, and all of Tamriel.” I said getting nods of agreement. “I find this plan very appealing, now we must put into action.” A unicorn named Starlight Glimmer said as everyone in the room decided to gather their respective cults to assist in constructing the portal, and craft the necessary ingredients to open it. Only Kai, Aunt Luna, Aunt Celestia, Sheogorath, Garrin, Haskill, the Dark Brotherhood, Cheerilee, and Trixie remained in the room and the silence was slightly unwelcome to us, but it gave us some time to collect ourselves. “Well that was interesting, but can we go back to the temple Kai? We need to inform the others of this development and hopefully, find a suitable location for the portal.” Cheerilee said with slight concern. “Yeah, you two head home, and see if you can find a place suitable for the portal, also if any of the other Daedric champions come knocking, let them in, we’re in this together until Jyggalag is defeated.” Kai said as he stood up to walk out to the castle gardens. Both mares nodded and with Garrin’s help they vanished in ethereal bluish-purple flames. “I hope we win Shiny.” I say to my husband as he nuzzles me. “I do too Cady, I do too.” He replied as we watched the sun setting and the moon rising. > Chapter 18: Fate of the Universe- Part 2: Old Friends Meet Again > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Canterlot Castle, One week after meeting, Sheogorath/James P.O.V) I sat with Celestia in the dining hall eating breakfast. I was eating strawberry pancakes with some hash browns and I was drinking some orange juice. Celestia was eating the same thing, however she was drinking grape juice. “What bothers you, my Prince of Madness?” Celestia sweetly asked after taking a sip from her grape juice. “It’s just so odd that we’re going to a place that just about every one of us dislikes because it houses the souls of the unaffiliated.” I reply with a slight frown. “Oh come now, not everyone can be apart of your cults, besides, you still have me to cheer you up.” She replies as she pecks me on the cheek. “I guess you’re right, but the Soul Cairn still creeps me out.” I reply with a smile. “No arguments there.” She giggled. “I swear by my beard, that she’ll be the only being to keep me somewhat sane!” I mentally exclaim. “Y’know, after this is all over, what’cha think about bein’ my wife?” I asked with an endearing smile. “I thought you’d never ask.” She replies with a smile as we both lean in for our first kiss. When our lips first touched, I could feel the softness, and warmth of her pristine fur. I tasted the sweet syrup from her pancakes, and I loved it. Then we had to separate for some air. “Wow! That was the best kiss of my life.” She said happily. “Best kiss of your life so far.” I said with a slight growl. I moved my plate and drink next to Celestia’s and took my place beside her and she began nuzzling into my shoulder. We stayed like this for a little while, then we heard the sound of Luna and Kai coming towards us. (Kai’s P.O.V, 10 minutes earlier Luna’s Bedroom) Luna and I were lying in bed cuddling after returning from the portal construction site last night. “I can believe how much progress they made after nearly a week of work.” I said as I yawned and stretched. “When you have different groups of beings working together for a similar goal, like saving the world.” Luna said with a nuzzle. “True, but it’s still amazing.” I replied as I pecked her cheek. “No arguments there my dear.” She replied as she began to stretch and preen her wings. “Need some help?” I asked. “If you could gently pluck the third feather on the second row, the first on the third on my left, I can handle my right.” She instructed. I gently ran my fingers through her soft feathers and the feathers she specified fell to the mattress and I collected them to use as writing quills later. “I see you like repurposing my feathers.” Luna said with a sly grin on her face. “Yeah, it’s terrible to just pass up on a good opportunity to make use of something that’s commonly discarded.” I defended with a slight blush growing on my cheeks. “Hehe, I’m just messing with you, I don’t mind. In fact I find it rather sweet and inspired seeing as we Equestrians will have to adapt to a new life when this is all over.” Luna said after she gave me the last molted feather she plucked from her wing. “Yup, things will be different, but I think that it’s for the best, now let’s get something to eat I’m starving.” I said as I got up from the bed and opened the door waiting for Luna to go through first. “Ladies first.” I said with a bow as she passed. “Oh my, what a gentleman.” Luna said as she walked out of the room with a smile and brushed her tail across my waist. “Anything for you, my queen of the night.” I mutter softly. (Castle dining room, Present time, 3rd P.O.V) As Kai and Luna at their breakfasts in silence, Celestia saw how happy Luna was with her fiance, and if Luna was happy, then things would be fine. After their meals were done, they began discussing their next course of action to recruit the Ideal Masters in the fight against Jyggalag. “So, do you really think that they’ll listen?” Celestia asked. “They’ll have no choice, I mean, Jyggalag has probably made it so nobody enters the Soul Cairn upon death, and that would make them pretty peeved.” Kai stated as the made it back to Luna’s room. “We’ll continue this after I get my gear together.” He said as he opened the door, went into the room, then closed the door. After about five, or ten minutes of waiting Kai came out of Luna’s room wearing his black Dovah-plate armour, with black Dovah-mail underneath, and he had his signature weapon, Soul Snare, on his right hip, and his amulet. “Alright, now we need to still give the Ideal Masters something in exchange for their help, otherwise they won’t help us at all.” Kai said as if no time had passed from the previous conversation. “What does that mean?” Luna asked with a hint of worry. “It means that they won’t help unless they get a soul that they find satisfactory to seal the deal.” Sheogorath replied with a frown. “Oh.” Luna deadpanned. “Yeah, but it’s either we give them what they want, or we went through all of this for nothing.” Kai said as he placed an armoured hand on Luna’s shoulder with a small smile. “I want to come with you, and you can’t change my mind.” Luna replied. “Well if you come with me then I’ll have to partially Soul Trap you so the Soul Cairn doesn’t consume your soul as payment, are you sure you want that?” Kai asked with his brows furrowed, not in anger, but seriousness. Luna inhaled deeply, “Yes, I want to follow you and see this place for myself. I don’t care what we have to do, but if you even try to leave without me, then I’ll make you miserable until our wedding day!” Luna said with slight growl as the words came out of her mouth. “She’s got’cha there laddy, the woman can and will make your life a livin’ nightmare.” Sheogorath said as he nuzzled Celestia. “Alright fine, you can come, but before we do this, a warning: After we’re done there we’ll need to retrieve your essence gem just so we can get in and out without any long lasting consequences.” Kai said to Luna as he prepared his spell to partially Soul Trap her. “I know, and I accept what we must do.” Luna said with determination. “Okay, now hold still, this’ll sting a bit.” Kai said as he casted his spell. “Alright let’s go.” Luna said she tried to fly, but she couldn’t for very long. “Remember you have only half of your true power now.” Sheogorath said with his trademark grin. Luna blushed in response. “Alright I’ll send ya to the portal.” Sheogorath said as he snapped his fingers. (Soul Cairn Portal, Molag Bal’s P.O.V) “What is taking so long?!” I thought angrily as I waited for Kai to arrive so we could get this disgusting business over with. “Calm down my Lord, he’ll come, this was his idea after all.” My champion Queen Chrysalis, of the Changelings said as she tried to placate my rage. “I know, but I’m bored!” I sighed exasperatedly. “Hehe, I know a way to keep you occupied.” The Changeling, now Vampire said seductively. It amazed me that she was very well versed in utilizing seduction as a weapon. “I knew I made the right choice for my champion.” I say as I pull her close to me and lightly bite her ear. Before we could go any further, a portal appeared and Kai along with his fiance walked out of it. “About time you showed up!” I growled. “Whatever, at least you don’t have to worry about getting married after this is over, and I had to partially Soul Trap Luna because she wanted to come.” Kai stated matter-of-factly. “Whatever, let’s just get this over with.” I said with an exasperated sigh. “For once I agree with you.” Kai said as he looked at the ingredients we needed to enter the Soul Cairn. “Okay, we have just about everything we need, now all we need is the blood of a Pureblood Vampire, or a Daedric Prince.” He said as he pulled a dagger from his bottomless satchel. After making a cut on his forearm and letting his blood mix with the other ingredients, the ground began to shake and the floor opened a portal that had a purple hue to it. “Well here we go, the Soul Cairn awaits.” Kai said as he began walking down the steps the portal created. “I’ll stay here with Chrysalis to make sure nothing follows you two in, or gets killed by the portal.” I said. Kai nodded in response. “Good luck, brother.” I muttered softly as Luna and Kai disappeared from sight. (Soul Cairn, 3rd P.O.V) Once the blinding light from the portal cleared, Kai and Luna gazed upon a blue hued, desolated, wasteland that housed the souls of the dead from centuries past. “It’s oddly beautiful, I wasn’t really expecting that.” Luna said with an awed tone. “Yeah, I’d love to sightsee too, but we have work to do.” Kai said with a slight chuckle. Luna blushed at Kai’s comment, but he was right, after all the fate of the universe depended on it. “Okay we need to head towards those ruins over there.” Kai said as he pointed towards a large building in the distance. “What type of resistance should be expected?” Luna asked curiously. “Boneman, Mistman, Guardians, Wrathman, and Durnehviir.” Kai said as they walked down the steps. “Okay stay on guard, our enemies can creep up on us at any point, let’s hope we can make it without attract a lot of attention.” Kai said as he carefully eyed their surroundings. “Kai, if you climb on my back, I could get us there faster.” Luna offered. “Fine, but only because I don’t want to deal with too many enemies.” Kai said with an intense blush on his face. After about ten minutes of traversing the Soul Cairn, Kai and Luna finally made it to their destination. “Wait here, there’s somebody up there.” Kai warned. Luna nodded and stayed put as Kai went up to greet the stranger. “Serana, is that you?” Kai asked as he looked at the young woman in front of him. “Kai?! What are you doing here?!” Serana shouted as she hugged her friend. “I came here to get the help of the Ideal Masters in my fight against Jyggalag.” Kai said as he let the Vampire go. “Oh, well I came here to do that too, but I was too late.” Serana said in a defeated tone. “Hey, I’m here, and I have an offer they’d be stupid to refuse. Also I want you to meet someone. Luna you can come up now.” Kai said as he turned towards where Luna was hiding. “Serana, meet my fiance Luna. Luna, this is Serana, my first Vampiric friend.” Kai said as he introduced the two females to one another. “Nice to meet you.” Serana said with a bow of her head. “Same to you.” Luna said as she repeated the gesture. “Now that introductions are out of the way, we need to see the Ideal Masters, and there’s only one being who can help us, and that’s Durnehviir.” Kai said as he led them towards the Boneyard. After entering the Boneyard, the unmistakable sound of a dragon roaring could be heard. “Well Durnehviir knows we’re here now.” Serana said in a flat tone. “It would seem that way.” Luna said as she looked to the sky and say a dragon land in front of them. “Drem Yol Lok Durnehviir.” Kai said with a smile. “It is most glorious to see you once more Qahnaarin!” Durnehviir replied happily. “It’s been so long since I’ve called you to aid me, but right now I have a favor to ask of you.” Kai said with a slight frown. “You wish to speak to them don’t you?” Durnehviir asked with a growl when he mentioned ‘them’. “Yeah, see we need their help to defeat Jyggalag.” Kai replied with urgency. Durnehviir nodded in understanding, after all he enjoyed Kai’s company, and he valued him as a friend. “Climb on Fahdon and bring your companions with you, I will only make this flight once.” Durnehviir responded as he turned around to allow Luna and Serana to climb on to his back. “We’re all set, let’s do this.” Kai said. Durnehviir pushed off the ground and began to flap his enormous wings, he stabilized himself after a few seconds due to the weight of two other passengers, and flew towards the Ideal Masters’ Citadel. (Some time later…) After a long, silent flight on Durnehviir, the Ideal Masters’ citadel was in sight. “Hopefully thing will go smoothly.” Serana muttered to herself as she, Luna, and Kai dismounted Durnehviir. “I concur with you Vampire, but don’t trust just hope, it’s folly.” Durnehviir said with a snort. “Forgive me for withholding my enthusiasm.” Luna said flatly. “You have the most interesting taste in companions Qahnaarin. I very much enjoy the equine’s sense of humor.” Durnehviir said with a slight chuckle. “Yeah my fiance sure knows how to be a barrel of laughs.” Kai said with a smile as he looked at Luna. “Also Qahnaarin, would it be too much of me to ask you to unbind me from this place? I would like to be by your side rather than here.” Durnehviir requested. “I’ll see what I can do.” Kai said as he walked towards Luna and Serana. The two females looked at their Daedric companion with concerned looks. “It’s best if we leave him be for now.” Luna said as they entered the citadel. (Ideal Masters’ Citadel Kai’s P.O.V) As we strode through the Ideal Masters’ citadel, encountering the usual enemies I had Durnehviir’s request to rejoin the living rampaging in my mind. “He deserves it, he’s a prisoner here! He deserves to be free! He’s a great friend to me, so I owe him after everything he’s done for me over the centuries!” I thought to myself as I killed another Guardian. I really owed Durnehviir this favor, especially after all his help over the centuries. “If those bastards tell me ‘no’ I’ll teach them about pain!” I angrily growled as we ascended to the final courtyard where there were six Guardians standing outside the Sanctum. “Let us pass to see your masters, or face our wrath!” I yelled confusing the Guardians. The Guardians must have received a mental command from their masters to stand down and let us pass. I pushed the Sanctum’s doors open and we walked in to see three figures that had white robes with hoods obscuring their faces. “Welcome Lord of Morals, to what do we owe this unexpected visit?” The Master on the right asked with mock curiosity. “You know very damn well why I’m here!” I hissed through gritted teeth. “I told you being a prick would only agitate him.” The Master on the left said with an irritated tone. “Enough! Lord Kai is here to ask our favor, let him speak!” The middle Master shouted angrily. “At least one of you has common sense.” Luna said. “Now that we have that out of the way, I’m sure you three already know about Jyggalag.” I said getting nods from all three of the Ideal Masters. After explaining the plan to the Ideal Masters, they seemed to be all for it, but I remembered the favor I owed Durnehviir. “Also, I want Durnehviir to be released from his station here. You all know that he would rather serve me than you, so if you don’t grant this request, I will show you what happens to people who refuse my request after putting up with all of this crap!” I said with my anger seeping into my voice. “It’s obvious that you’re adamant about this, so there’s no point in arguing with a Daedric Prince, so tell Durnehviir that he is free, and you have our support in your campaign against Jyggalag.” The middle Master said with a calm tone. “Thank you, I’m sorry if I was acting like a prick, but you have to understand that he’s done a lot for me, it’s the least I can do for him, and if Jyggalag wins, then we’re all doomed.” I said as I felt tears stinging my eyes. “We understand, and we hope that this ends with victory.” The Masters said simultaneously. “Thanks, now we need to leave, and you must prepare your forces, we’ll see you before we start out attack.” I said as the five of us went through the Sanctum’s door. Durnehviir seemed more alive than before. “Ah Qahnaarin, I assume that you’ve succeeded in requesting my freedom?” The dragon asked excitedly. “I have, and the even restored Luna’s soul so she can fly on her own now.” I replied happily. “Excellent! Let us depart to the living world together!” Durnehviir exclaimed as he lowered his head so I could ride him, while Serana mounted Luna and we took off towards the portal. “All I have to do is call your name as I normally would, but you’ll be free to do as you please.” I said as I saw Luna and Serana went through the portal. “I’ll be awaiting your call Fahdon.” Durnehviir said as he flew away. (Equestria, Soul Cairn Portal, 3rd P.O.V.) Molag Bal and Chrysalis were patiently waiting for Kai and Luna to return with, hopefully, good news. In the meantime, The Daedric Prince of Domination was trying to come to terms with his feelings for the Changeling Queen. “So is this love that I’m feeling? If it is, then I’m glad it’s with somebody who mirrors my interests.” Molag thought to himself as he saw Luna and another woman emerge from the portal with Kai coming up from behind. When Molag saw the second woman, he couldn’t believe that he was seeing Serana Volkihar standing before him. “Well, look at this unexpected pleasure, it’s so good to see you again Serana.” Molag said with a slightly sinister grin on his face. “Leave her be Molag, I have good news for once.” Kai said as he stepped between Serana and Molag. “What did they say?” Molag asked. “They’ll help us, all we have to do is send one person to inform them of when we’re ready to attack.” Kai said as he was heading towards the entrance of the chamber. “What are you doing?” Molag asked clearly confused. “I’m going to summon Durnehviir, and I can’t do that in here.” Kai stated matter-of-factly as he left them behind. “DURNEHVIIR!”Kai shouted and in an instant Durnehviir appeared and judging from the sparkle in his eye, he was overjoyed to be in the realm of the living again. “Fahdon! I thank you profusely, no words can describe my emotions at this moment!” The formerly cursed dov exclaimed in joy. “You’re welcome my old friend, now if I need you, I’ll call on you, until then farewell.” Kai said with a smile. “Farewell, fahdon.” Durnehviir said as he took to the boundless skies above him, roaring in delight of finally being freed from the Soul Cairn. “I think things are going to be just fine.” Kai said as he watched Durnehviir fly away and walked back towards the Soul Cairn Portal. “Ok we should head back to Canterlot with Serana so we can get ready for the final portion of this campaign.” Kai said as Molag, Serana, Luna, and Chrysalis were just playing an impromptu game of poker. “Finally we have the means to defeat Jyggalag!” Molag shouted triumphantly as he and Chrysalis disappeared in a burst of purple flames. “Shall we be off?” Luna asked with a smile. “Let’s go home.” Kai said as purple flames enveloped Luna, Serana, and himself, sending them to Canterlot to rest for the battle ahead. > Chapter 19: War for the Ages part 1: So it Begins > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Canterlot Castle, One week after Soul Cairn trip, Serana’s P.O.V) “I still can’t believe that this place is going to end up merging with Nirn.” I thought to myself as I walked through one of the castle’s hallways. “Something wrong Lady Volkihar?” Blueblood asked as he walked up to me. “No, I’m just amazed that this world will soon be introduced to so many races like the elves, men, Khajiit, and Argonians.” I replied with a sigh. “I know, for Aunty Celestia it’s a lot to take in, but it’ll be fine.” Blueblood said reassuringly. “How can you be sure?” I asked. “Simple, I just accepted the reality that there will be struggles, but I know there’s always another way to solve problems instead of bloodshed.” The unicorn said with a smile as he gave me wine bottle filled with blood. I graciously accepted the bottle as he went back to his study. “I guess I’m so used to having the world hate me to see that there are people who can look past my nature and accept me for who I am, not what I am.” I thought as I uncorked the bottle and began drinking the contents within. “Hmm, not bad.” I said after I finished my “breakfast” and gave one of the maids the empty bottle to dispose of. After the maid left with the bottle, I went to find either Celestia, or Luna to just have somebody to talk to. As I was heading towards Celestia’s study, I bumped into a pink mare that I’ve never seen before. She was beautiful, but I could tell that she was a married mare, but then again I could use more female friends. “I’m sorry. I wasn’t paying attention to where I was going.” I said as the mare lied on her hooves. “It’s fine. I’m Cadence.” Cadence said as she bowed. “Serana.” I replied, bowing in return. “Thank you.” Cadence said as I helped her up to her hooves. I giggled before responding. “No problem.” “So what are you doing?” Cadence asked me with a smile. “Looking for somepony to talk to.” I responded with a bored tone. “Well I’m here, perhaps I could provide some company?” Cadence asked smiling. “Sure. I just hope that you don’t mind my diet. I am a Vampire after all.” I said as I let Cadence know a little bit about me. “As long as you don’t bite me, I’m fine with it.” Cadence said jokingly. I laugh in response as we headed down the hall back to my room to get out of the sun. (Meanwhile, Twilight’s Castle, Starlight’s P.O.V) “She beat me, I can’t believe she beat me! Even after all of my planning, I still lost!” I thought to myself as Twilight and her friends were discussing my fate. “I wonder what they’re going to do with me.” I muttered to myself as there was nothing but silence in the room. Then Twilight’s assistant, Spike, gestured for me to come in. I swallowed nervously as I went in to face Twilight and her friends. “Starlight Glimmer, after the things you’ve done, normally you’d be banished from Equestria.” Twilight said with regality. I lowered my head in shame. “However, the girls and I talked it over, and we know that you’re not evil, just misunderstood, and none of us got to know you, so we’ve decided that your punishment is to be my student.” Twilight said as she got off of her throne and walked towards me. I was in complete shock! She was forgiving me after everything that I did, not only that, she was going to teach me about the magic of friendship, and let me live here in Ponyville! I had no idea what to say, much less react, but as long as it didn’t include my life or imprisonment to the highest authority, I suppose I may as well make due with it. “I-I really don’t know what to say!” I said with tears stinging my eyes. “You’re welcome, and welcome to your new home.” Twilight said as she placed a hoof on my shoulder. Then the light slightly faded from the room and above the map table a mass of tentacles and eyes appeared. I was now terrified of whatever this creature was, more so than what Twilight had planned for me. “Ah, young Sparkle, it is so good to see you and your friends.” a strangely calming voice said. “Oh, hello Lord Hermaeus, I wasn’t expecting you to visit.” Twilight said as she smiled towards the creature. “Hmm. I see you have a new friend, and from what I can see, she seems very intelligent. I would like to speak to her if you wouldn’t mind.” The creature requested. “Sure. Come over here Starlight, and don’t be afraid Hermaeus Mora won’t harm you. He just wants to talk to you.” Twilight said reassuringly. I swallowed hard and walked towards the mass of tentacles and eyes. “Greetings mortal.” He said in a pleasant tone. “Hi. My name’s Starlight Glimmer. Who are you?” I said curiously. “I am Hermaeus Mora, the Daedric Prince of Knowledge, and Fate.” Hermaeus replied. “What do you want with me?” I asked. “I merely wish for you to be my new emissary, that is all.” Hermaeus said. “Emissary? What do I get out of being your emissary?” I asked. “As my emissary, you will have unrestricted access to my realm of Oblivion, Apocrypha, home to all sources of knowledge. What say you?” Hermaeus replied. “An entire alternate reality that has nothing but knowledge, and I get to go there whenever I want?! I’d be brain-dead to refuse!” I thought to myself as I made perhaps the best decision of my life. “I’ll do it!” I shouted in excitement. “Excellent. I give you my artifact, my Oghma Infinium, as well as the Black Books. With these tomes, you’re now my emissary, use this privilege wisely.” Hermaeus said as he conjured several books out of thin air and placed them on the table and disappeared from sight. “Huh, never thought we’d be visited by him.” Applejack said flatly. “What do you mean?” I asked. “He was the only Prince without a champion, ‘cause his sphere of influence can make most ponies go nuts from all of the forbidden stuff he knows.” She replied. “So he chose me because I have a strong mind, is that it?” I asked a little scared from the new information. “That, and he’s a huge egghead, and he saw the stuff you did, and he knows that it takes a lot of concentration to have a level head when dealing with somethin’ like magic.” Rainbow said as she hovered next to me. I couldn’t help but feel a little proud of myself for being this good at magic, enough to catch the attention of an extradimensional deity. (Canterlot Carousel, Sassy’s P.O.V) I was waking up from a peaceful slumber, but I saw that Garrin wasn’t there. I looked outside of my window on the balcony to see him staring over the horizon as if he was in deep thought. “Are you alright?” I ask snapping him out of his trance. “I’m actually quite unsure how to feel. I mean if we lose, we lose everything, if we win, the future seems promising, but I just don’t know.” Garrin said with a slight sob in his voice. “Oh come now, are you telling me that you’re scared of what’s to come?” I asked with a small smile. “When you get down to it, yes I am afraid. I can’t lose you! I can’t.” He said with tears now freely flowing down his cheeks. “If all goes well, you won’t.” I said placing a hoof on his shoulder. “I don’t know what will happen.” He replied. “Hey we have friends, love, and an entire army of undead on our side.” I replied. “How did you find out about that?” He asked. “A woman named Serana came over to stay out of the sun, and we became fast friends.” I replied. Garrin shook his head and chuckled. “I never knew that Lady Serana would come here just get out of the sun, but then again she is a vampire after all.” I simply nodded in response. “I suppose you have to leave for the briefing?” I asked. “I do, but I promise to come back to you.” He said we kissed one last time before he left for the castle. (Canterlot Castle, 3rd P.O.V) The castle was packed with the Aedra, Daedra, Equestrians all awaiting for the most important pre-battle briefing in their lives. Celestia and Sheogorath were sitting next to Luna, Trixie, Cheerilee, Garrin, and Kai. The other Daedric Princes sat next to their champions on one side of the table, the Aedra sat on the opposite side of the Daedra, and the remaining Equestrians sat at the end of the table. Seeing that everyone was in attendance, Kai decided to begin the briefing by standing up and making a small speech. “I would like to thank each and every one of you for attending. I realize that I have inadvertently caused the situation we’re currently facing, and I am truly sorry. For those of you who wonder what eternal life is like, I can tell you that after being immortal for over six and a half centuries, it’s extremely boring. That was until I came here and met Luna and my new set of friends.” Kai said as the room started to talk quietly amongst themselves until Kai raised his hand to silence them. “However, that still doesn’t excuse my lack of foresight about Jyggalag’s power being similar to mine. So I am truly sorry for all of this, and I hope you all can forgive me.” Kai said as he sat back down in his seat. Silence overtook the room as everyone processed the information they were just told. Molag Bal decided to stand up and speak. “Out of the lot of us here, I can understand what you mean. At first I thought that love was for the weak, but as it turns out, I myself fell in love with my Champion, and I’ve never been happier. I forgive you.” Molag said as he sat back down. Akatosh, Mara, Dibella, and Arkay nodded in agreement. “With all of this done, let’s prepare for the fight of our lives.” Talos said as he slapped the table, riling up everyone. “Alright, Now since we have the support of the Ideal Masters, we have an advantage over Jyggalag. Most likely his defense is expecting us to commit to an all or nothing siege.” Kai said as he made a model of Nirn with Jyggalag’s army in organized formations, and their army in diverse groups. “While that is the concept, it’s far from the true plan. The real plan is to draw his army out, divide it in groups, and surround them. As for Jyggalag himself, I will take him on personally.” Kai said making the room erupt in cheers and war cries. “Seeing this as we’re in agreement, let’s move out!” Luna shouted in the Royal Canterlot Voice. (Hour and a half later, Everfree Forest Temple 3rd P.O.V) Every single able bodied warrior in Equestria was ready for perhaps the most dangerous conflict they’ve ever fought since the War in the North. Kai stood before his allies in his full Dovah-mail battle ensemble. Luna was wearing a modified Dark Brotherhood set that had darkly colored steel plates on her shoulders legs, and a helmet. Celestia wore her old armor from the siege on the Crystal Empire. Everyone else wore the distinct armor of their cultures. “Alright everyone, as soon as we walk through that gateway behind my throne, there’s no going back.” Kai said as nobody even flinched at this and everyone started to move into the temple towards the Oblivion Gate behind the throne. Kai walked through first, followed by Luna and the Dark Brotherhood, then Celestia, until everyone was through the gateway to Nirn. Nirn, Skyrim, Throat of the World Summit, Jyggalag’s P.O.V I sat upon my throne on the summit of the highest peak in all of Tamriel in preparation for Kai to return and confront me. I felt a tremor in the fabric of the universe signaling his return, but he wasn’t alone as I assumed. “No matter, I still have greater numbers than him, so I don’t need to worry.” I said as I continued to just watch the inevitable battle about to begin. “So it begins.” I said as I rose from my throne and picking up my sword. > Chapter 20: War for the Ages- part 2: United We Stand > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Nirn, Skyrim, 3rd P.O.V) When the Equestrian, Aedric, and Daedric campaign arrive in Skyrim all of the Equestrians are in awe of the wild, untamed, and mountainous landscape of the northern province of the Empire. “This is where you grew up?!” Luna asked in complete shock. “Yes Lulu, this is where I was born and raised.” Kai replied. “You know it’s somewhat ironic that this is where we fight for our future.” Serana said as she looked towards the Throat of the World. “Indeed.” Akatosh agreed. Kai strode forward, unsheathed his sword and stabbed it into the ground. “From the Soul Cairn I summon the forces of the Ideal Masters to enforce my will!” He shouted as he took a dagger and cut his hand to offer his blood to the Ideal Masters as payment for their services. Out of the ground come thousands of Mistmen, Wrathmen, Bonemen, and even the Ideal Masters are ready for war. Many of the Equestrians are slightly unnerved by the new set of allies, but quickly concluded that it’s for strength in numbers. “Now this is an unexpected surprise.” Kai said as he looked at the Ideal Masters. “True, but we thought that it would be boring to not join the fight, so we decided to help.” The first Master said. “Fair enough, now remember Jyggalag is my fight.” Kai replied as everyone nodded. Kai’s army soon moved through the forest near Ivarstead to encounter the first line of Jyggalag’s army in a defensive position. “Charge that roadblock, and push on through!” Luna ordered as she shot beams of magic at the first barricade to weaken it. The rest of the Equestrians charged forward and engaged some of defending infantry. The battle commenced with soldiers yelling and multiple explosives going off on the battlefield. For many, this engagement will be their last, others may experience what most will have to bear for the rest of their lives, but regardless, Kai’s army was able to break a hole in Jyggalag’s defense and opening a nich to squeeze the army into. “Keep pushing them towards the stairs, and we’ll set up our base camp about halfway up the mountain!” Kai shouted as he stabbed a Nord through his abdomen. The march was long, especially for those who are carrying the wounded. “Jyggalag isn’t going to make this easy is he?” A soldier asked Kai. “Absolutely not. He’s probably mobilizing his forces in the other holds to converge on this mountain and overwhelm us with sheer numbers.” Kai replied as he looked off into the distance. “So what do we do?” Shining Armor asked. “For now rest, then we push forward near dawn, set up a barricade of our own while I push forward on my own.” Kai said with a somber tone. “Is that wise?” Celestia asked. “It’s either that or wait for the massive army marching towards us.” Molag replied. “Yeah the first option sounds better.” Celestia said realizing what Molag meant. (Luna’s P.O.V) War and combat were not strange to me or Tia, but I’ve never fought a war of this scale before. Before a few months ago I never would’ve imagined that my quest for love would end up like this, but I wouldn’t want it any other way. “I just wish I could help you fight Jyggalag.” I thought to myself as I gazed at the beautiful night sky with Nirn’s two moons high in the sky, and the aurora gleaming in the sky above. “Beautiful isn’t it?” James(Sheogorath) asked as he approached me. “It is, possibly as elegant as the nights I create myself.” I replied as a smile curls onto my face as I continue to stare. “You really wanna help him don’t you?” He asked. I nodded in response. “I know you do, trust me all of us want to, but he and Jyggalag have a couple of personal issues to settle, and he doesn’t want us to get hurt.” James said as he looked out over the valley in the distance. “What is it?” I asked as I saw the scowl on James’ face. “We need to move, that army is massing just outside of Riften.” James reported. “Ok now we’re on the clock, Gods only know when they’ll be upon us. Let’s pack up and move out gentlemen and stallions.” Troops began to pack in the rations and tents as quick as possible. Not long after they were on the march again up the mountain. (3rd P.O.V) “I can’t believe we have move out again!” Rainbow Dash said with a groan. “I don’t like it either Dash, but it’s either keep moving up the mountain to gain ground, or wait for the enemy to surround us.” Gilda said as she nudged her friend. “I guess that’s true, but still, the sun’s not up and it’s near freezing up here!” Rainbow complained as the army kept blasting enemy troops off the ledges and moving forward. The small pockets of enemy squads seemed to become less and less frequent the farther they traveled up the mountain. Even if some were lost along the treacherous climb, the push was relentless through the snow-covered rock. Eventually all their efforts paid off as they were now just outside of High Hrothgar, home of the Greybeards. “Okay everyone, this is the final push, after this I’ll continue on my own.” Kai said as he took a seat on the stairs outside the monastery. There were cheers from the crowd and Luna took a seat beside Kai. “Promise me you’ll come back to me.” Luna said as she kissed Kai’s cheek. “I will not let him win.” Kai said as he hugged Luna, stood up and walked through the doors of High Hrothgar. (High Hrothgar, Kai’s P.O.V) I walked into the old monastery expecting something to attack me, but nothing came to attack. “Show yourself!” I shouted, my voice echoing throughout the ancient halls. “Ah, Dragonborn it’s nice to see you again.” Master Arngeir said as he stepped out of the shadows with Wulfgar, Einarth, and Borri following him. “It’s nice to see some friendly faces in the midst of this mess.” I replied as I hugged the old monk. “I agree Dragonborn, have your forces enter to shelter themselves from the cold, Jyggalag awaits you at the summit.” Arngeir said as he walked towards the door. “You go on ahead, I’ll keep going.” I said as I walked to the opposite side of the room and out the door leading to the summit. “I haven’t used this shout in a long time.” I said as I inhaled deeply. “LOK, VAH, KOOR!” I shouted towards the raging snow as I ascended the mountain. Finally I reached the top of the Throat of the World, like I did all of those years ago. Unsurprisingly, Jyggalag was sitting on a throne near Paarthunax’s perch. “It’s surprising to see that you came here alone, but it matters not.” Jyggalag said as he began to stand and grip his sword. “Let’s just get on with this so I can go home and begin my life as a married man.” I said as I took a combative stance. “Very well, may the victor be blessed with the spoils.” Jyggalag said as he pointed his great sword to me and charged. I charged in return and at the very moment our swords clashed the fate of Nirn and Equestria was now o the edge of a knife. Whomever won this battle determined the fate of the universe. “I cannot allow myself to lose!” I inwardly shouted as I pushed Jyggalag away and charged again. > Chapter 21: War for the Ages- Part 3: Quest Complete > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Previously in “A Daedra’s Heart”... “I haven’t used this shout in a long time.” I said as I inhaled deeply. “LOK, VAH, KOOR!” I shouted towards the raging snow as I ascended the mountain. Finally I reached the top of the Throat of the World, like I did all of those years ago. Unsurprisingly, Jyggalag was sitting on a throne near Paarthunax’s perch. “It’s surprising to see that you came here alone, but it matters not.” Jyggalag said as he began to stand and grip his sword. “Let’s just get on with this so I can go home and begin my life as a married man.” I said as I took a combative stance. “Very well, may the victor be blessed with the spoils.” Jyggalag said as he pointed his great sword to me and charged. I charged in return and at the very moment our swords clashed the fate of Nirn and Equestria was now on the edge of a knife. Whomever won this battle determined the fate of the universe. “I cannot allow myself to lose!” I inwardly shouted as I pushed Jyggalag away and charged again. Present… Throat of the World, Summit (Kai’s P.O.V) I practically roared as I sidestepped out of the path of Jyggalag’s greatsword as I charged at him and landed a couple of blows, then I dodged away. Jyggalag quickly recovered and leapt into the air and lunged forward. I rolled out of the way and shot a Lightning Bolt at him. He quickly deflected the spell and charged at me, swung his sword in a diagonal spin slash. I backstepped and countered with three swings, and all of the attacks landed causing Jyggalag to fall to his knees in exhaustion. “I see you’ve improved little brother.” Jyggalag complimented as he began to stand back up. “However, I’m not even close to being defeated.” He said as he strode towards me. “Then come at me!” I shouted as I pulled my lucky shield out of my pocket dimension that contained my inventory. Jyggalag’s sword impacted my shield causing him to stagger, I capitalized on the opportunity and impaled him through his abdomen. I pulled my blade out and I dodged a huge blast of magic from Jyggalag. He then caused lightning to strike in random spots in our arena. I managed to lure him into a lightning strike and just before he built up enough mana to cause his enormous blast, I stabbed Jyggalag again and this time I leaned down to whisper into his ear. “No matter what has happened in the past, I always looked up to you. However, I can’t allow you to win because it would completely destroy the multiverse.” I said to Jyggalag as he inhaled deeply. “I know you did, and I am forever grateful for that, and I am sorry for the atrocities I have committed, and now I must bid you farewell as I merge with Sheogorath and I will cease to exist. Goodbye brother.” He said as he slumped forward and fell off of my blade into the snow. His body began to dissipate into smoke. “Goodbye brother.” I replied as I watched the smoke  disappear over the horizon. Throat of the World (3rd P.O.V) Everyone that was possessed by Jyggalag’s influence was released and collapsed onto the ground unconscious leaving the Equestrian Coalition  to rush to the fallen warriors to get them out of the cold. “He did it!” Garrin shouted as he saw the smoke from the summit dissipating. The Equestrian Coalition  erupted into cheers as the formerly captivated peoples of Nirn awoke from their brief slumber. High Hrothgar (Luna’s P.O.V) We could hear the sound of our forces guarding the outside cheering as the battle was finally over. I heard the doors that lead to the summit open and reveal my loving Daedra leaning on the door in exhaustion. Kai began to fall towards the ground, but I quickly caught him in my magic and carried him to one of the beds in the monastery. “It’s finally over.” Kai  said as he passed out from exhaustion. “Yes, it’s finally over.” I said as I paced a loving peck on is cheek. “Rest now my love, you’ve earned it.” I said as I made my way back to the others in the monastery. “Is he alright?” Tia asked. I nodded in response. “I always knew he could do it, but when he wakes up we need meld our worlds together.” James(Sheogorath) said earning murmurs of agreement. After three hours I heard Kai yawning, signaling that he awoke from his slumber from fighting Jyggalag. “Morning sleepy head.” I said with a smile. “Hello to you too.” Kai replied. “How long was I out?” He asked. “About three hours.” I said. “Okay, so now Nirn has to be fused to Equestria, and after that we can get back to planning our wedding.” Kai said as he walked over to me and held me in his arms. I nodded in agreement as Tia, Cadence, the Element Bearers, the Aedra, Kai, James(Sheogorath), the rest of the Daedra, the Ideal Masters, and myself journeyed up to the summit of the mountain with an Elder Scroll to combine our magic to meld our worlds together at last. Throat of the World Summit 3rd P.O.V As the Daedra, Aedra, Celestia, Cadence, Luna, and the Element Bearers reached the Time Wound, Kai pulled out an Elder Scroll. “In theory, all we would have to do is focus all of our powers on the scroll and will for our worlds to meld together.” Kai said as the others nodded in understanding. All of the most powerful entities then focused on the Elder Scroll with their respective magic beams with a runic lattice slowly started forming around the group as the spell began to react with the fabric of the universe. Luna noticed the a spark of white light starting to consume the entire mountain and then the light became too bright to see and Luna forced her eyes closed, then the light began to die down until the runic lattice disappeared from sight. Luna once again slowly opened her eyes to see the sun still high in the sky, but she felt a difference in the heavens, for instance, she felt more powerful because she now had control of Nirn’s moons Masser and Secunda. She also stared off into the distance to see the vague outline of Canterlot Castle on the horizon. The others began to open their eyes, and groan from the enormous amount of magic they just used affecting their bodies. “Did we succeed?” Azura asked. “Indeed we did, just take a look in the distance, you can see Canterlot from here!” Luna exclaimed happily as she tackled Kai to the ground. The others laughed at Kai’s expense, but soon found Luna’s claim to be correct and they all breathed a sigh of relief. Kai’s P.O.V “It’s finally over.” I thought to myself as I gazed at the sky with a smile on my face as Luna tackled me to the ground and we kissed to celebrate our victory. After a few seconds Luna and I separated from our kiss, she and I stood up as the rest of our group went back to the military encampment on the mountain as the sun rose over the horizon to greet a new age. Sheogorath tapped me on my left shoulder to get my attention. “So when are ya gettin’ hitched now that the universe is saved?” He asked. “Maybe two months from now, I mean we have to let everyone get used to this new way of life.” I replied as we walked into the monastery. Inside the ancient stone building all of the supernatural being from Aetherius, Oblivion, Equestria, etc. sat at a table to figure out where to go from here on. “I personally think that we should put our differences aside, I mean we all just saved the universe from destruction.” Akatosh said gaining a few murmurs of agreement from the rest of the table. “I agree, there’s a lot more to gain, than when we were enemies.” Azura said as Sheogorath and I took our seats. “As much as it pains me to say it, but she’s right.” Molag said placing a hand under his chin. “You only agree because of your disgusting relationship with that thing you call champion.” Boethiah said in disgust. Molag was about to get up from his seat and strike his rival, but Meridia stopped him. “Calm down! She’s just jealous that every time there’s a potential suitor for her, she ends up bored and kills them.” She said with a smirk on her face as Boethiah sunk in her chair seething in rage. “All insults aside, the universe has been changed because of our actions. True, we have our differences, but all of us are the divine beings that influence the mortal races, and I think we should live in relative peace with one another.” I said as Boethiah took her seat and sighed in frustration. “He’s right.” Boethiah said with an irritated groan. “Good. It’s settled, now we have other matters to attend to, such as the wedding, it’s supposed to be a week from today!” Sheogorath shouted making me blush. “Well we have work to do.” Akatosh said as he, the other divine beings of Nirn, and I rose from our seats and greeted the new world with optimism. (Canterlot Castle, Equestria, One Week after Convergence Event, Luna’s P.O.V) Finally, my wedding day has arrived! I was standing in front of the display mirrors in the gown that Sassy Saddles made for me. “I still can’t believe this is actually happening!” I thought to myself as I placed the veil on my head. I heard the door to my room open and my dear sister came in. “You look beautiful Luna, Kai is so lucky to have you.” Celestia said with a smile. “Thank you Tia, I still can’t believe I’m getting married, and before you as well.” I said with a chuckle as we walked towards the ballroom. (Canterlot Castle, Ballroom, 3rd P.O.V) The ballroom was filled with the many denizens of Equestria, Aetherius, Oblivion, and Nirn. They were all here to witness the union of an Equestrian princess and her Daedric Prince. The room fell silent as the door opened and the beautiful bride was revealed to her loving groom, who smiled and the Bridal march began as she strolled down the aisle with her sister in tow. Celestia took her place next to Luna as the Maid of Honor, while Sheogorath was Kai’s Best Man. With the bride, groom, bridesmaids, and groomsmen all in their proper positions, Akatosh began the ceremony. “Dearly beloved, we are all here bear witness to the rite of marital fidelity between this Daedra, and this woman in the bonds of matrimony.” Akatosh began. Kai and Luna looked in each others eyes as Akatosh continued his speech. “Will the ring bearer come forth with the rings?” Akatosh asked. Spike came towards the altar with a pair of beautiful gold rings with sapphires in the center settings. Kai and Luna took their respective rings from the pillow. “The bride and groom may recite their vows of matrimony.” Akatosh said as Kai and Luna looked back at each other with loving gazes. “Kai, it is with all of my love, and devotion that I swear myself to be you wife from now until the end of time.” Luna said as she slipped her ring on to Kai’s hand. “My dearest Luna, it is with my honor to be your husband. I will do the absolute best I can to make sure you live happily with me for eternity. I only ask that you accept me and all of my flaws, as I accept yours. I love you with all my heart, and it shall be so forevermore.” Kai said as he slipped his ring on to Luna’s hand. With their vows finished, and rings placed on their hands, Akatosh prepared to end the ceremony. “By the powers vested in me and realms of Oblivion, and Aetherius, I pronounce this loving couple husband and wife. May your lives be filled with happiness and love. You may now kiss the bride.” Akatosh said. Kai and Luna’s lips met in a kiss filled by love and passion. The crowd cheered and applauded for the couple as they separated their love true and deeper than any ocean. > Epilogue: A Great Change Has Come > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Six months later, Canterlot Castle, 3rd P.O.V) A lot has changed since Kai and Luna’s wedding six months ago. Such events included: Celestia and Sheogorath’s wedding, Garrin and Sassy's wedding, the defeat of the Storm King, the discovery of the Kirin, and many other events that made history. Today however, Luna was in the medical wing of the castle because she had been feeling ill for the past few weeks, and she didn’t know why. The doctor returned to her with a smile on his face. “Well your majesty, you’re not ill, you’re pregnant. Congratulations!” The doctor said, his smile unwavering. Luna sat on the exam table with a look of shock on her face. “Your highness? Are you alright?" He asked regaining her attention. “Y-yes doctor. I’m just surprised. I think deep down I knew, but I just didn’t believe it, until now.” Luna said as a smile came across her face as well as a few tears of joy streaming down her face. She left the medical ward with a smile and slight pep in her step as she went off to join her sister, and brother-in-law for lunch. (Castle Dining Room, Celestia’s P.O.V) I am really happy that my sweet Prince of Madness managed to get me to take break from work every so often. If he didn’t I would be starving myself, and be borderline insane by now. “How are ya doin’ my lovely queen of the sun?” Sheogorath asked as he sat down next to me. I smiled at seeing my husband. “Just fine Sheo. How’s your day been going?” I said with a smile. “I’ve been hangin’ around Sanguine, Discord, and the rest of the gang, playin’  bunch of jokes on people.” He replied with his trademark grin. “I’ll bet. Have you seen Luna lately? Kai said she hasn’t been feeling well for the past two weeks.” I said with a concerned tone. “No, I haven’t, but I hope it’s nothin’ too serious.” He said as he placed a hand on my shoulder. A few minutes later We see Luna coming into dining room with a smile on her face and a skip in her step as she took her seat across from me and Sheogorath. “Oh hello Tia, Sheo, nice day isn’t it?” She asked happily. “Yes it is nice, but Luna are you alright? Kai said that you might be ill.” I said with a quirked eyebrow. “Oh I wasn’t sick Tia. It turns out that I’m expecting my first child!” Luna said, nearly squealing in delight. Sheo and I sat there shocked at Luna’s news. “If you two stay quiet, I’ll have to alert the mortician.” Luna said with a smirk. “I’m so happy for you dear sister! Does Kai know?” I asked excitedly. Luna shook her head. “No, but I will tell him tonight.” She said with a smile. After about five minutes one of the maids came to take our lunch orders. After lunch, Luna went back to her study. (Later that evening, Luna/Kai’s bedroom, Kai’s P.O.V) I came back home to my beautiful wife after a long day of managing my cult, keeping people from rioting in the streets from Sheogorath’s pranks, and strangely allowing Hermaeus to access the Isles of Perception for some reason. I saw Luna sitting at her desk sorting through various documents. “Hey, how are you doing?” I asked making Luna look up from her work with a smile. “Hello love. I have some good news for you.” She said with a smile. “Really?” I asked as I walked over to her desk. “Yes, but I think I’ll tell you after dinner.” She said as her stomach rumbled loudly. “Okay. Let’s just have it delivered to us, I don’t feel like leaving the room tonight.” I said. Luna nodded as I wrote down our dinner order and sent it to the kitchen. Twenty minutes later our food arrived and we ate in peace. After we ate we sat down on the couch in front of the fireplace relaxing in each other’s embrace. “So, what do want to tell me?” I asked earning a giggle from Luna. “Kai, my darling, I wasn’t sick. I’m pregnant.” Luna said with a loving smile on her face. I felt my eyes sting from the tears of joy and pride of becoming a father. I kissed Luna and once we separated, we just relaxed for the evening. That was the plan until one of my servants from the Isles of Perception suddenly appeared in the room with a distraught look on his face. “My Lord Kai,” the servant said in frantic worry. “News from the Isles! A gravely injured warrior of unknown race appeared through the Oblivion Gate!” I furrowed my brow at this news. “Is he being tended to?” I asked. “Yes my lord as soon as he appeared he had a message for you.” The servant said. “What did he say?” I asked. “I don’t know master I was sent to give you this news. The watchman who first saw him might be better.” He said bowing his head in sadness. “It’s fine, who found our new guest?” I asked placing a hand on his shoulder. “An Argonian, named Selavan Shortspine, Master.” He said. “Very well. We’ll meet you at the Citadel medical ward.” I said as Luna and I stood up as the servant bowed his head and disappeared in a flash of purple flames. “Let’s go, there’s not a moment to waste.” I said with urgency.