> Nightmare wars: The sensual conflict > by Funeral Dirge > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > A lonely princess > --------------------------------------------------------------------------   Luna rose from her bed slowly stretching her arms, a small yawn escaping the princess’s mouth. The sun was lowering so soon her job would need to be done. She gazed down at her regalia but was too tired to put it on just yet. Her feet hit the floor with a small ache, but she rose heading over to her mirror levitating a brush over. She gazed at her own ebony reflection which returned the yawn she gave it. She chuckled at the image examining her own figure, her plump breasts. Not as large as her sister but she always thought she had the better waist and hips, her sister’s cake addiction though did give her a lovely round rump which she spent a bit too much time thinking about. She let her nightgown hit the floor and walked upon the balcony the cool air of the night caressing her bare flesh. She stepped upon the railing as the last lights of day dimmed then she stepped off, from her back sprouted her black feathers carrying her upon the wind between her and her sister’s towers there a toe landed upon a cloud. She began to turn upon the cloud her hands forming a hoop as she moved, rising and falling in a sultry display for any who might spy on the mare of the moon this night. The moon began to rise, and the stars above joined their mistress. A cascade of a night in motion, Luna leapt from cloud to cloud as the heavens put on a grand display. It meant little back in the ages of old but many ponies had developed a night life in the current age and she would see them all treated. Tales of great battles her and her sister had fought written high above, though a spark of a romantic tale play in the background for those watching close enough.   Luna’s dance carried her to the entrance of her sister's tower. Stepping upon the cold marble floor. A few guards catching their dark skinned princess in all of the moonlights glory before she rose a hand summoning her regalia upon her body, cobalt blue strapping to her legs,a thin sheet of cool metal laced from her hips dipping beneath her belly button attached to a gray piece of cloth that protected her rump and other bits from exposed sight, arms and shoulders added to the cool blue upon her body thin sheets of metal then wrap from her back like snaked covering only a little bit of the side of her breasts and nipples leaving most exposed. Lastly dawned her crown fit for a sultry princess of the night. Luna waited in the hall leading to her sister's chamber knowing her sister would be by any moment. She smiled to a pair of guard who had seen her interest and gave them a wave, she couldn’t help think. ‘My sister always did keep the most handsome and gorgeous guards just outside her bed chamber. Suppose that’s why since the 1000 years I have been gone, half of canterlot harbors the blood of the sun and steel.’ She could hear her sister in the distance coming but seemed to be in middle of a conversation. Celestia came around a corner dressed in nothing more than a few golden plates covering her large breasts, silken white cloth wrapped her body barely covering anything with her brilliant dove wings arced from her back. A simple gold bikini bottom and wrapped sandled finished the descent. Her royal crown sat regally upon her head with her hair flowing back. A hand and wing were wrapped around someone. “Well Twilight there are many more lessons to teach, perhaps you’d like to stay a while to discuss them further.” The fact Celestia’s hand was placed on the young new princess’s hip and rose slowly with Celestia’s words was not lost on her.  Twilight though was the most modest of the princess’s not yet in her station long enough to have picked up and started enjoying the princess’s more leisurely delights. Twilight was dressed in a simple purple, white and golden trimmed shirt, with long sleeves and a cute little skirt, her shirt held in place by a simple brown belt the ends of the shirt flowed off the side past the belt descending down toward her thighs which were clad in nothing but brown boots, Luna prefered her in bathhouse wear far more. Though Luna did like Twilight herself and she did have many favorable skills, she was a tad annoyed to see her tonight. Luna coughed a bit as they got closer, The two stopped though to Luna annoyance it did not keep Celestia’s hand from descending Twilight's hip a bit. Twilight's spoke up first, “Good evening princess Luna. It's a pleasure to see you tonight.” Celestia’s hand left Twilight's hip but not without a quick graze against the newests princess’ backside getting a slight blush. Celestia walked to her sister looking down to her a bit kissing her cheek. The guards bodies stiffed as Celestia’s plump breasts were pressed to her sisters smaller but still ample bust, “A good evening to you sister, i hope the night finds you well.” Luna kept herself composed, “Yes i am well I just came over for our evening plans like we had discussed sister dearest…” She said the young princess not catching the slight venom in the ending words. Celestia smiled at Luna looking back at Twilight, “It is a bad time sister dear, you know how rarely Twilight is in canterlot. I was thinking of spending a bit of time catching up with her for a bit.” Luna scoffed, “yes catch up i'm sure.” Luna turned from her sister walking to the railing. Twilight called out, “why don’t we all sit down and enjoy each others company?” She offered with a smile always the mediator. “Not this night Twilight sparkle.” She said sliding over the railing and descending to the court yard. On her descent she could hear Celestia and Luna’s conversation, Twilight speaking first, “Should we go after her Celestia…” “No Twilight she will cool off in time, beside you know right now you only need call me tia~” The sound of lips pressed and guards attempting to stand at attention just annoyed Luna further. Luna touched down in the courtyard with little more than a whisper, her annoyance fumed a bit delivering a fog to the nearby area as she waltz herself toward the garden to cool off a bit. The animals having vacated the area for the moment Luna found a nice patch of grass to lay upon, she sighed deeply. “Celestia we were supposed to spend tonight together… you can always make time for others but i need some attention too…” Her voice pouted. The cool breeze of night always did wonders for Luna’s temper though, gazing upon the she allowed herself to close her eyes and let her imagination run wild. Imagining how Celestia would slowly slip the dress from Twilight’s nubile young body. Twilight's hand trembling as it moved over Celestia’s plump posterior. The clinking of Celestia’s breastplate upon the ground, Twilight leaning in to suckle at her sister's plump breasts, the sweet taste of her sister milk. Luna let out a little moan from the thoughts, she rose a hand to remove what little armor did cover her breast cupping her hand against her own ebony skin, squeezing at them, pinching her nipple between her fingers as she the thoughts of Celestia’s tongue running through the folds of Twilight's lovely pussy. She did have to admit Twilight did taste spectacular,  Her mind wandering again back to her return as nightmare moon. Luna banished her hip guards leaving her pussy free beneath the moonlight a hand trailing over her silky skin, she thought back to when she had returned as nightmare moon. How she had tested each of Twilight and her friends. Applejack’s honest feelings getting them through their first perile. Fluttershy relieving the angry manticore with those plump breasts that rival her sisters. The trees and vines she sent to delay and scare them only for pinkie proving there nothing to fear from tree tentacles. At that thought Luna squeezed her breast tightly in one hand and pressed two of her fingers inside her pussy moving them in and out slowly.  Rarity helping the seamonster seduce the other monster in the river to find love, Luna gasped as she arced her fingers inside herself. “Oh damn….” How rainbow was able to resist her shadowbolts as they had caressed her athletic little body. All leading to her confrontation with Twilight as their lips pressed, hands grasping at each other. She never thought a mere mortal could best her, but she didn’t count on 6 nubile young girls and their vigor to best her. Luna let out one long pant and moan as she bit her lip, the juices flowed from her coating the grass patch. Her chest rose and fell a bit, “why can’t i still have that…” She said to no one in particular. She could have any guard or maid she wanted, but she didn’t want just someone random she wanted Twilight, she wanted rarity or any of them. Mostly she just wanted her sister to feel herself grasped in her embrace. There lips pressed together, exploring each other like they did so long ago. ‘Stupid tia, Twilight been gone a month i was gone a 1000 years….’ she thought to herself. Then she heard it a flick of a tongue, caressing over her wet pussy, slithering between her breasts was a snake. Luna’s body seized at the sight of a serpent, it coiled about her with precision. Every movement sending a shudder down Luna’s back as its scales rubs along her pussy. It's the front half of its body even wrapped around her breast squeezing it. ‘What type of snake is this….’ she thought to herself. The snake's head rose up then lunged at her nipple, Luna squeaked as it did she didn’t have the fondest thought of snakes. But no fangs pierced her flesh instead it just clamped around her breast its forked tongue licking at her nipple. “What sorcery is this...ahhh...who ever doing this break your illusion.” She panted and moaned in response. A voice did answer though. “Aww but you looked so lonely i just wished to offer you a bit of affection. Perhaps something a little more is in order. Luna closed her eyes, the weight of the serpent grew. A pair of plump breasts soon resting atop her own. A legs between her own and one on the outside. A hand  presses both of Luna’s above her head pinning her. Cool lips press to Luna's own, she fights back a bit before slowly she begins to kiss back. Then warm fingers find their way to Luna’s wet pussy playing with her clit. Luna’s eyes slowly open to see a figure of ashen skin looking down at her, green slitted eyes locked with hers as another kiss is delivered. Such warm fingers find their way inside of Luna who lets out a small gasp of pleasure. “Who….ahhh who are you….” The sultry voice speaks, “Just another who looking for a bit of love….less talk now there time for that later. Luna’s arms were freed, she could fight back if she wanted to but everything just felt so divine. Luna’s arms moving to this creature's back running down it slowly caressing over some waxy wings upon her back. Luna didn’t know who this was but for the moment  she didn’t care as her hands made their way to the woman's toned ass gripping it tightly. ‘There will be time to talk in the morning’ was her last thought before she gave in fully to the passion. The two woman coiling around each other throughout the night. Yes questions can wait. > Twilight Journal:Astral > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Astral- Astral is a mystical energy source saturating the world. It is found in all living things and even a few inorganic substances, though a comprehensive list has yet to be made. Gems are the most commonly recognized, being able to store Astral in wildly varying quantities and lengths of time depending on grade and treatment. Note to self, requisition samples of known and suspected Astrally Sensitive minerals from the Canterlot Treasury for testing. They'll be put to better use in my lab anyway. From what is known, Astral Energy (usually known as simply Astral) is an extra-dimensional energy seeping into our world through what scholars call the Astral Plane. Creativity wasn't part of the curriculum until a few centuries ago. The total amount of Astral in an area, though seemingly limitless in the Astral Plane, depends on numerous factors. One well known one is the season: There's far more Astral in the world during the summer than winter. Excessive use during the summer, or heavy use in winter, will lessen and eventually deplete an area's Astral Concentration (referred to as Field Count) for a time. Different individuals interact with Astral in fundamentally different ways, though there are several archetypes to be found. Most archetypes spent their lives finding ways to use it to their own ends but it took the greatest Star-Child Starswirl the Bearded to ever live to ask the all important question "how?" Star-Children today are still trying to answer that question, but we've made some tangible advances based off of their discoveries. Clover the Clever, for instance, invented the Astral Motivation Engine upon which almost every Astral powered mechanical device is based. We can generate electricity, produce water, even build cities on a legendary scale through Astral. On a more individual scale it can be wielded to perform incredible feat, termed Magic before civilization took root. Its not some Dame's tale told to scare children into their tents, its a practical application of science and instinct for some of us anyway. Below is a comprehensive list of the primary users of Astral in Equestria, and those most well understood by modern standards. Further research is, of course, needed. Deva: The masterful control of star-children, connection to the Slipstream of Sky-born, and the raw power of Stone-Made, Deva are simply the greatest example of Astral control. Possessing immeasurable capacity for Astral and capable of assimilating more through their affinity with their particular purview, Deva are demi-goddesses Demi-gods have yet to be found but will not rule out compared to normal people. Heresy Hearsay says that, if a Deva were to fully deplete their Astral reserves they would be rendered completely helpless and comatose rather than merely exhausted.Examples: Princess Celestia and Luna Star-Children: Those who bend the spine of reality through sheer force of will and intellect, transmuting raw Astral into miracles commonly referred to as Magic. Don't get me started on how confusing that is. Star-Children are capable of manipulating Astral directly into whatever form desired, though most focus on specific common effects like spells or enchantments. Star-Children possess a moderate capacity for Astral, though it depends on the individual, which can be replenished in minutes. Though as with anyone, an individual who fully depletes their Astral pool will need several hours to recover from exhaustion. Star-children do not gain any passive magical protection from harm, though spells can be cast to provide even more powerful defenses than Stone-Made for a while.  Examples: my brother Prince Shining Armor So wrong calling him that and Rarity. Sky-Born: Individuals who draw upon Astral through The Slipstream to enhance their physical abilities dramatically and create flight capable wings. Their abilities commonly consist of things like flying really fast, flying even faster, flying ridiculously fast, performing impossibly acrobatic feats, creating intense bursts of strength and durability, and allowing themselves to touch the untouchable. The common themes are using their bodies as conduits for Astral energy in order to perform magical feats, manifesting wings in order to fly, and subtly bending space. Nobody is quite sure how they do the last part its infuriating trying to describe as little research has been successful. Their capacity for Astral is low, though as long as they have some Astral they replenish very quickly through their connection to The Slipstream. Those with particularly strong connections to The Slipstream invert the usual manifestation: normally a Sky-Born must intentionally manifest their wings, but for those particularly powerful this is subconscious and has to be suppressed. Deva and other prodigies become so powerful that they can't even diminish their wings, and some rare individuals manifest elemental powers through their's. Notable exceptions to these themes include Rd  Rainbow Dash's Sonic Rainboom, and Muffin's seeming capability to break anything. Even time. We agreed to never speak of that again. Examples: Spitfire and Fluttershy Stone-Made: People with a strong connection to the earth, using Astral to enhance themselves and the world around them. Feats personally observed include: kicking a tree hard enough to snap it (at least 70,000 pounds of force required,) planting a seed and watching it grow into a sprout in seconds, and walking through a hail of arrows like it was a light drizzle before beating the poor suckers half to death with their own bows. They also tend towards a more utilitarian approach to Astral, having massive capacities but requiring days to replenish, and can be credited with aiding in building much of the Astral Mechanical Academy in Manehattan. Following along this, they tend to be slow and steady in and out of combat, relying on simply outlasting their problems. Which Granny Smith seems to be making good use of in an attempt at immortality. The Stone Made Way. Example AJ Gah i have stop doing that, professionalism Twi, professionalism Applejack and Pinkie Pie... Sometimes. The following list consists of fringe cases, recently turned archetypes, and other types currently being researched. Night-Singers: The polar opposite of Sky-Born. No, literally. Early on it was discovered that, despite bearing wings similar to Sky-Born and Wind-Talons, they don't have access to The Slipstream. Rather they draw upon something they call The Silence/The Void/a dozen other things which is still be studied. Cursory tests involving exposure to other Astral Users were very enjoyable enlightening, but inconclusive. They have displayed multiple abilities over the past decade. Echolocation, hypnosis, ghost sounds, and other auditory magic. Flight, though nowhere near the spacebending speed of Sky-Born. And most infuriating interesting an ability to manipulate Astral to a degree, primarily used to break and twist the magic of others. Their capacity is equally difficult to gauge, as they seem to have almost none, but they replenish their pool at a rate surpassing even Sky-Born. Most well known as servants of Princess Luna, having served her throughout her thousand year exile, though they're starting to become more prolific. Examples include: sweetheart Nocturnal Melody and Westwood. Fang-Bloods: The unique children of dragons who were not born of true full blooded heritage. Able to channel Astral through their bodies forming avatars of destruction and other impressive abilities. Uniquely, a mostly separate species from humans, Fang-Bloods are the half blooded children of dragons. Each has an elemental affinity, though Fire appears to be a particularly common one among subjects, from which they can draw both Astral and physical healing. Capable of impressive abilities, ranging from taking elemental draconic form to impregnating individuals through contraception spells the rather standard feats of incredible strength. Notably, while less capable than the three primary Equestrian Astral Archetypes, their abilities cover a range of variety otherwise unheard of. Notably they seem to be empowered by something more less different but similar to Astral, but further research is required. Not particularly common in Equestria, very little is actually known about Fang-Bloods and Dragons. Their capacity for whatever the heck they use energy is high, though they don't replenish their stores very quickly without absorbing their element. If Fire affinity Fang-Bloods are an indication, they can feed off of what they generate if its allowed to propagate. Example Spike and Ember Wind-Talons: Almost a middle ground between Fang-bloods,Stone-Made and the sky-born. Able to great small wind talons around parts of their body, tough and can fly. The wind that protects a Sky-Talons body is superior to your average sky born, But they as well seem to lack the world bending speed. Even without having met for thousands of years they like other species dependent upon the slipstream provided the same name and inability to describe it. Maybe if we look back far enough Sky-born cousins? Example Gilda bitch Diamond souls: Able to harden their bodies to a diamond hard substance, mild passive forms of hypnosis. Further abilities yet to be discovered. They were lost to time for a very long time, unfortunately even Canterlots libraries have little information on them or full extent of abilities.  Example I really don't personally know any diamond souls but cadence has a bunch in the empire Cadences assistant Raven something TBA Species we have little to know information about Ash-Folk: They eat Astral, research needed to see why, and why it must be devoured through affection. Able to alter there forms to appear as near identical copies of there victims. Possess Flight,magic and raw strength. Researching defenses is currently a Canterlot priority Example: Queen chrysalis and her hive bitches Frost beards: Cold resistant,durable,strong anything further needs be researched. It has been ages sense our people have interacted, we know almost as little about Frost Beards as we do Ash folk. Yet to have a chance to study one these guys mostly why Heh big harry Stone-Made Example That asshole prince Prince Rutherford consistently highly cognitive species unable to use Astral Mound-Makers: Unable to control the astral though resistant to its effects and presence. Large, powerful, big hands…..Research thoroughly. Example Those 3 diamond dog assholes Those three diamond dog assholes. What each species can and cannot do with the power of Astral shall be further researched, Twilight you're gonna need give yourself a medal when your done So that you can make Equestria and everyone in it a better person and place.  Twilight laid her quill back and stretched. She glossed over her work, it was just a rough draft but it was fine for now. She slide out of her chair, slowly she began to remove the layers of her wizards robes. She loved how they looked but they were too restrictive around her wings she felt. She stood in nothing but her crystal heart panties and bra giving one more stretch. “Spike? Where are you?” She called out. “Hmm i'm upstairs, need me come down cook you up something to eat?” He called back, from the upstairs bedroom. Twilight thought for a moment she was a bit hungry, a little grin flowed over her face. She walked to the stairs. SNAP her bra hit the floor as she ascended the stairs getting to the last step seeing spike laying back on the bed in nothing but his little red shorts. She slide her hands over her hips, swaying her rump a bit, a soft whisper as her panties hit the ground. She walked lightly over to spike, “I suppose i might be a bit hungry…” “Oh just let me get through this page.” Spoke the green haired assistant, his slitted eyes darting across the pages of the comic. Spike always got so focused twilight couldn't help always finding it cute. Twilight looked over his toned arms and his flat abs. Spike was a rather handsome Fang-Blood she had to admit, the Martial arts training his kind did worked wonders. She slide down between his legs pulling his shorts down in one swooping motion, “No need i found what i want.” Her Tongue flicked across the tip of his cock before she wrapped her lips around his cock bobbing her head low, a hand rising to caress and squeeze his balls. Spikes claws dug into the pages of his comic as his body tensed, “Ahhh, twilight warn me when your going to do that…just ruined my comic. “ The Fang-Blood pouted. Twilight's mouth came off with a pop, giving the tip a lick as her hand stroked the stiffening cock. “Aww sorry baby boy. How can momma make it better.” She said giving a nip at his balls. Spike looked down at twilight, then up as she rose fully naked in front of him, “You owe me a new comic…...and i can take your pussy all i want this week no having to pull out.” Twilight thought for a moment, “You can have my pussy tonight, even let you cum inside and i owe you a stack of comic.” Spike quickly retorted, “Comics, i can cum in your pussy tonight. As much anal as i want the rest of week.” Twilight giggled, she didn’t regret AJ teaching him to haggle, “I can live with that.” Twilight slowly moved to his side drawing his gaze as she slid onto the bed, she crawled across it her breast brushing against the silken sheets before Finding there plump pillows. Twilight swayed her ass moving a hand back to squeeze her own cheek giving spike a good view of her slick bald pussy. Twilight rolled onto her back letting the pillows partly prop her up and she spoke out in her sensual tone “Come on big boy mommy needs her strapping young man.” Spike tossed his ruined comic to the ground sliding over to Twilight. His head dipped his head between her legs, his tongue flicked out moving like a snake, slapping against the folds of her pussy. Twilight moaned out at the sudden sensation then gasped as spike nipped at her clit. Spike enjoyed twilight's taste he'd say she had the third best tasting pussy he had ever gotten the chance to taste. Twilight's chest rose and fell with heavy breaths with each lap of spikes glorious tongue. Spikes head rose from between twilight's legs, he kisses along her thigh, then shifted to her belly leaving a trail of kisses up it slowly. He moved his mouth to nibble and suck at one of twilight's breasts, one hand keeps him balanced as the other caresses twilight's ass. Though twilight had the third best pussy she had his favorite ass to grope, not to firm and just enough plush. Twilight moved her hands down grasping at the sides of spikes head. She lifted him up and pulled him into a kiss, her hand sliding down his back the other nosing her fingers through his hair. Spike pushed his chest against twilight's, her breasts squishing against him. Spikes arms wrapped around her holding her tight, with this moment he began to rub his cock along her pussy coating it in twilight's juices. Their eyes locked after a bit, and with a grunt from spike and a moan from twilight, spikes thick shaft slide inside her tight pussy. One of spikes hands sliding down to her hip holding her in place as he began to move his own back and forth slowly. Twilight inhaled and exhaled with each motion, "Mmmm that's my big boy....you know what mommy likes." She spoke to him in a sensual whisper giving his ear a tiny lick and nibble as she finished. Spike slowly began to rock his hips a bit faster, his cock driving deeper inside twilight. "Of coarse mum." He chuckled, "Always want to make you feel as nice as i can." He spoke back in his lovers tone, As twilight began to try and speak spike thrust his hips against her hard instead sending her into a long moan. "Let me make you cry with glee" He said in a slightly more sinister tone, he then thrust his head down biting onto twilgiths neck. Spikes rhythmic motion picked up both speed and ferocity, Twilight's bed echoing in the room as it repeatably slammed against the wall, spikes hips moving in an arcing motion driving deep inside twilight. Twilight could only moan and cry out with pleasure, noting how much better spike had gotten over the years. The feeling of pleasure edging on pain was an ecstasy, twilight had never known with another lover and she loved it. After a while spike slowed down but this left twilight a bit puzzled sense he had yet to cum. Her question was soon answered as he pulled out of her then forcefully rolled her upon her belly and pulled her ass into the air. Spike quickly mounted her again twilight needing to use her hands to keep herself propped up. Her fists gripping the sheets tightly as spike began relentlessly slamming himself against her ass which echoed in the room. Spike gripped hard at twilight's hips as he began thrusting hard, he had learned a lot having sex with her and her friends as well as a few other folk he had met. Spike wanted to give twilight an excellent night to burn off some of her stress, the first sign of success was her loud scream and the puddle of her cum pooling upon the bed sheets. As twilight's pussy convulsed around spikes cock she became lost in thought. Remembering spike as just a small hatching, taking him for his first walk. Playing games with him, teaching him about the birds and the bee's, giving him his first hands on lesson. She thought 'spike don't you dare stop now.' Spike used all his stamina to keep up his love making with twilight but even a fang blood like himself has his limits. Soon after twilight reached her second orgasm spike lent his head down and nibbled at her ear low speaking softly into it, "Love you mom." He spoke they only would speak like this in private but it was a guilty pleasure for them both, spike truly loved twilight like his mother. He gave her one last final thrust holding himself tight against her, his cock shooting his hot thick seed into her pussy, invading her womb. Spike panted resting against twilight as he spilled every drop of his cum inside her. Twilight panted feeling the rush of his hot seed in her, she spoke to him. "I love you to my big man." she said softly, her arms giving way she leaned forward against the pillows. Spikes arms nosed around her as they turned on their side. Spike making sure not to remove his cock from her pussy. Twilight felt small kisses from her assistant for several minutes before they stopped. A small yawn escaping his lips. Twilight couldn't help but smile as spikes arms though having migrated up to twilight's breasts were holding her tightly in his embrace. She waved a hand dimming the candles so the two could drift off to sleep. Twilight had to admit he was always good for making her tired. Twilight laid in bed with spike for a couple hours half wanting to fall asleep but forced herself to be awake. He still was wrapped around her but thoroughly asleep. Twilight moved a hand over her stomach, twilight's eyes began to glow purple as did her hand. The magic arced into her stomach and she winced a bit. "Oh this always gives me cramps from tartarus...." She groaned a bit, matched by a groan from spike in his sleep, "Oh don't you complain...you got the one, not going through that again anytime soon." Twilight laid in bed dealing with an extremely bad case of the cramps but eventually tiredness overtook her and she was able to lay her eyes to rest. She could sleep in it had been a long but great night. > Research and rewards (updated) > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- On the edge of Ponyville, a young man crests the last hill on a long and wandering road. A wide brimmed hat and long weathered duster fight off the scorching sun, blown by a wandering wind. He meets his first view of the far off city and shining castle with a smile. And a chuckle. "With everything being a horse pun, I guess it makes sense the Horse is Equestria's sacred animal. Kinda in the na-and I'm talking to myself. Man I need a companion." The tall burly man shrugs, resting tanned hands behind his head. He'd become used to the heat, his trusty hat and copper tan speaking volumes of his travels. Sky blue eyes scan the horizon, trailing over the cerulean tattoos lacing his skin. Tribal sigils, his father's heritage. Silver Breeze walked alone for half an hour more before coming across his first Ponyvillians. A pair of women wearing hiking gear, one with minty hair and the other with a swirl of pink mixed with blue. He tipped his hat to the beautiful ladies, silver and azure locks flowing in the wind. A pair of giggles and his own wandering eyes bring a smile to his lips. The temptation to stop them almost overwhelms him, but his sense of duty drives him ever onward. "To Ponyville!" A grand declaration closely followed by an overheard sigh from the swirled haired woman. "Huh, kinda cute for a guy." The castle was impossible to miss, and not just from the towering stature. Silver could feel the energy radiating from the center of town, one of Ponyville's many claims to fame. Nobody quite seemed to act the way he expected either, a sense of insurmountable cheer filling the public murmur. Rumors said that the castle sustained the residents of the city, keeping them young and youthful far beyond their years. People said the Friendship Council were so suffused with the tree's energy that they hadn't aged since Silver was just a boy. A trio of young women passed him by, leaving a snippet of conversation about a kid trying to find his purpose in life behind. They looked younger than he was, but it was impossible to mistaken the Equestria Games flagbearers for Ponyville years running. Silver removed a notebook from his pack, taking notes so intently he almost walked into a woman in cowgirl garb giving chase to the trio. The castle's long winding corridors melted away under his boots, cool air and quiet music leading him in. In time he finally found the council chamber. Sitting there, reading a book and basking in the violet strings of the court's muse, he found her. Silver stood in the doorway, eyes drawn from the charcoal haired cellist to the Princess herself. Lady Twilight Sparkle, Deva, Mage, Scholar. She looks up from her book, tipping down a pair of reading glasses to meet his eyes. Archmage's robes and the curious sparkle in her eye lend her an air of wisdom, though the short cut of her skirt and sultry grin reveal her more playful nature. Silver froze, transfixed by her beauty. She didn't look a day over twenty, but she had to be in her late fourties. She waves him over, the muse making her exit on cue. "Welcome to my home, Silver Breeze I presume? I'm sorry I didn't meet you outside, a girl can't say no to a good book?" She giggles like a schoolgirl, setting aside her book. Quantum Astral Mechanics and Related Theories, a glance at the spine revealed while Silver waited for his heart to restart. "Old habits die hard." "Tis most alright, Mi'lady. I'm flattered, truly, to have a chance to meet you in person." He adjusts his coat, pulling his hat off to let his hair spill free. He almost missed the silent O on Twilight's lips as he sat, composing himself. "I'm glad my research can be of interest to you." Twilight gives him an enchanting smile, leaning forward on her elbows. She wasn't the bustiest person he'd met, but her relaxed demeanor and the subtle bounce draw his eye like magnets. Her smile melts into a smirk, but before he can fully forget how to breath she draws him back to reality. "Well I am performing my own studies into Astral Energy, and the people who use it. You're a specialist on subjects I haven't gotten the chance to study, so its only natural I get your... Input." She rests her chin on a hand, looking vaguely up at him. "Specialists are very valuable assets." Silver picks his jaw off the floor, shaking his head as he flips open his notebook. "Yes, well, Mi'lady, I-" "Enough of that, we're both scholars. That justifies some familiarity, doesn't it?" “I…. Yeah, of course, sorry. So as I was saying, most of what I know is about my dad’s people: Nature-Made. With them, I did a lot of research on Spirit Walker. I do know some about the Stone-Horned though, if you’re curious.” He flips through the notebook, coming to the start of his notes. “Oh? Do you mind?” Twilight’s voice comes from over his shoulder, the woman herself looking over his shoulder. He tries very, very hard to ignore her pressing against his back, holding the notebook up for her. The Deva eagerly starts flipping through, letting him hold it while her magic does the work. Spirit Walkers: Spirit Walkers are a rich and deeply traditional people, drawing from generations of folklore and ancestral teachings for their magic. A rare case of Astrally inclined individuals with great spiritual and physical magic. Physically they possess incredible strength and stamina, seen most thoroughly in their great “Stampedes,” migratory travel covering dozens of miles and lasting for days at a dead run. In a sprint they can manifest their Astral to become almost indestructible for short times, moving in a mostly straight line damn whatever happens to be between them and their goal punching through whatever they collide with if it refuses to move. They are in general stronger than the average Stone-Made, though their magical stores are smaller in exchange for vast physical endurance. (Perhaps an example of magically supplementing their physical selves, more research is required.) Alongside these gifts, the rare Spirit Walker is born with or earns the talent of speaking with Spirits, usually called Medicine Men or Shamans. Whether these are the echoes of living creatures or aspects of the natural world is unclear as Shamans are frustratingly cryptic but their presence is verifiable. These Spirit Walkers have shown, to this humble observer, a number of abilities through this spiritual communion including: dream-walking, speaking with animals, shapeshifting, healing magic, and the creation of enchanted fetishes/talismans. This last one is of particular interest, as it is both common among Shamans and incredibly varied. From a pot enchanted to heat food within to granting the bearer large batlike wings, the products have performed feats ranging from the mundane to the previously thought impossible. All fetishes/talismans seem to have a set time in which they’ll function, described by one Shamaness Guidingstar as “the great spirits’ compact coming to an end.” With nothing but conjecture, I can only guess that the length depends on the fetish/talisman’s effect and the disposition of the particular spirit. More research is needed, remember to find Shamaness Guidingstar again. “Oh? This woman sounds very accommodating. A friend of your’s?” Twilight whispers, hands gently rubbing road weary shoulders. “Uhhh… Yeah, yeah she is.” Silver tries to keep focused, flipping to another section of notes. “So, Nature-Made. My dad was one, so I’ve got a bit more detail on this group.” Nature-Made: Distant cousins of the Stone-Made, the Nature-Made tribes of the far south are a rarity in northern lands. Similar to the Stone-Made, their Astral enhances their strength, endurance, and physical durability. The analogues end there. Where Stone-Made have an affinity with the earth and limited influence over plants/animals, Nature-Made have a much deeper connection to the living aspects of nature. The most common is an understanding of plants, proving capable of finding and intuitively identifying the nature of magical plants. This is often used in conjunction with their most notorious talent: The ability to produce potions and other arcane preparations, colloquially known as Alchemy. This is done by imbuing ingredients, often already carrying magical properties, with their own Astral essence. The rituals and brewing allow them to manipulate and influence the magical traits of what goes in the pot, so to speak. The results are ubiquitous and endlessly valuable: Magical medical potions being the most famous. Skilled alchemists are capable of producing anything from the ever useful Blood-Stopping Goo and Healing potions to the more esoteric inventions of savants such as the vaunted World-Weathering Wine and Breath Brew. As impressive as Alchemy is however, it’s far more science than magic. It’s even possible for Nature-Made to teach people inclined towards other kinds of Astral use how to perform Alchemy, though few show a natural talent for the craft as its inventors. Needless to say, the birthplace of Equestrian Alchemy is in the rarely thought of grasslands and forests far to the south. Their most powerful Astral use comes from a mix of natural Astral talent and ceremonially bestowed tattoos: The manipulation of the elements around them. Though they aren’t capable of creating their element like Fang-Bloods, they are able to use whatever is around them. Individuals tend to gravitate towards one element or another, though they have the ability to wield any element though not necessarily at the same time within reason. The tattoos Nature-Made wear stem from a tradition born of survival, combining certain magical plants and sigils with the wearer’s own Astral to dramatically improve their own abilities. Related: Astral stores and recovery times vary heavily, relying on internal and external factors. In practice they tend towards the middle, though their environment can improve or inhibit them more than others. “Fascinating… And very thorough. I made the right choice.” Twilight has managed to situate herself in Silver’s lap, and he honestly can’t remember when this happened. Failed spot check aside, he sets the book down. “Yes, well I’ve been studying my heritage for most of my life now. Any que-” “Yes, if you don’t mind.” The Lady gets comfortable, dropping a notebook of her own onto the table. “I’ve got a few questions about your sources, perhaps you’d like to share your stories?” “Sure, but that’ll probably take a while. Another day?” Silver can’t help but glance down, realizing just how light Twilight is. Despite the parts of him focused otherwise, his first thought is questioning how she’s doing that. “Fine, but I’m getting it out of you before you leave.” A finger finds its way under his chin, giving him a very nice view of the tree stump chandelier.   Steel Horns Borne from a warrior culture similar to Wind Talons, Stone Horns showcase some of the greatest examples of physical strength in Equestria. Their durability and endurance are comparably low however, comparing to a Star-Child. They showcase an incredible Astral capacity, possibly connected to their larger physiques. Page 87 for further theories on that. Theirs is a proud history, a tapestry of military excellence and nobility. Rare in Equestria, discounting a certain famous modern figure, Steel Horns are known for their size (comparable to Tithelords) and impressive physiques. Less commonly known is the deep sense of honor instilled in their people from a young age; during the interview I was able to conduct a few things stood out. Steel Horns are taught that their word is as strong as their bodies, adhering to the spirit and letter of their words even when it would serve them not to. As a note, they tend to be very clever with their words when they want to be, manipulating others with truths and careful traps with the same ease an accomplished liar would. They are taught to never speak low of themselves, telling tales of their deeds and their family’s accomplishments whenever provoked. As a note, this isn’t seen as being egotistical, and in fact the interviewed individual was quite humble when not asked about his own accomplishments. He explained that it is a sign of personal pride, by growing and spreading their own legends they strengthen the culture as a whole, recounting how stories of Steel Horns in his youth drove him to seek greatness in his adulthood. On a more practical sense, Steel Horns manipulate Astral not just to improve their strength, but also manipulate stone and certain metals with astounding ease. This, and their culture as a whole, has lead their culture to become the forerunner of Golemancy, the craft of creating and maintaining autonomous and semi-autonomous constructs. As a personal note, travel to the lands far west is a must if further research is to be done. Twilight set his book aside, tilting her head as the notebook and quill floating beside her write furiously. “You made reference to some things that have my interest. The spirits of the Spirit Walkers, and this theory about size correlating with Astral capacity?” For the first time since he walked in the scholar in her takes the fore, adjusting her glasses as she flips through a few preliminary mathematical theories. “The Spirit Walkers had me pretty confused for a while, but I think I know enough to answer your questions. From what I’ve found, the Spirit Walker shamans aren’t quite using their own power to perform their ‘miracles.’ They do need to use Astral to perform the compacts with their Spirits, but it seems like they are using it as an offering or bargaining chip rather the actual energy performing the action. Their shape shifting is actually one of the more transparent feats: They don the pelt and likeness of the specified animal and call upon the spirit representing that animal. I was able to observe one, it seems as though the spirit possessed the Shaman in order to transform his physical body while maintaining his mind and astral identity. He described it as incredibly disorientating, and it only lasted for a short time, but the fact that it can done and undone so easily could be a big breakthrough for human transmogrification research. Compared to that the healing was mundane: It didn’t fix me on the spot like a sufficiently strong potion would have when I broke my leg out there, but it did reduce the time it took me to heal from a few months to a few weeks. And this is just conjecture mind you, but I swear my knee hasn’t ached since.” Silver picks up his notebook as he talks, flipping through various notes as he talks. The two are so into it that they don’t seem to care that the book’s resting in Twilight’s lap. “Fascinating. I’ll need a copy of this as soon as you can make it. If this checks out, I might be able to convince the girls to fund a fully fledged expedition to the Mild West.” “Sure thing, I’ve got some samples too. A talisman Guidingstar made me, it kept my canteen full for six months now. About the size thing though. It’s my theory that larger creatures can contain higher quantities of Astral Energy without suffering the usual side effects of over saturation, compared to smaller individuals from the same group. Whether it being from there being more for the Astral Energy to attract to or just there being more there to withstand the adverse effects, I’ve seen a relatively consistent theme in my travels. Naturally larger groups tend to have higher Astral reserves, though the opposite could also be true.” “I have my own theories on the subject, but I agree. There is some form of correlation, perhaps connected to Astral Affinity perhaps not, but this information will prove valuable in my research. Thank you Silver, you’ve given me plenty to work with. Some of these abilities are… interesting, in the amount of overlap they share with others. Shapeshifting similar to Ashen Folk, though with its own brand of limitations. My own studies into human transmogrification have shown a lot of promise, but they’re extremely draining.” Twilight scoops his journal up out of her lap, letting it float over a finger. “Let’s make a deal. I’d like to read more of your notes, and I’ve got a little tidbit that I’m sure you’d be interested in. I’ve only met one other person with tattoos like your’s. A shamaness in the Everfree forest named Zecora. She’s an old friend of mine, and close enough to the Tree to still benefit from its bleed off. So why don’t you go visit her, and I’ll keep pore over this lovely little book while you’re gone. Then when you get back we can sort out the details of having my financial officer make a sizable donation to your expedition, we can put our heads together on some of this, and maybe see if you want to make any… further donations.” The saucy smile is back, as is the feeling of having a mild heart attack. “Thank you Prince-er, Twilight.” Silver stands up, fixing his hat and coat. After a moment’s thought he places another two notebooks on the table, full of older notes. If her smile made his heart stop before, the barely suppressed squee as she scooped up the new books made it explode. Twice. By the time he’s fully recovered he’s outside, leaned against the great crystal doors of the castle watching the bustle of the growing city boil around it. He decides this Zecora can wait for a little bit, watching the crowd with mild awe as he centers himself. “I’ll never get used to seeing this many people in one place.” He mutters to himself with a smile, cheerfully oblivious to the purple lipstick gracing his cheek. Half an hour later and nearly losing his hat a few times to particularly grabby trees, Silver Breeze finally sees his first sign of civilization since he entered the forest. Voices. Womens’ voices. He gently plucks a small furry creature off his shoulder, placing it safely on the ground as he listens. “Thank you for your time Apple Bloom. You’ll be returning home I presume?” “Eyup, Ah’m headin’ on home. And yer more than welcome Zecora, happy t’ help. Have a good night, ya hear?” Silver breaks through into the clearing just in time to see two women break off what must have been an impressively affectionate kiss. The two women look over at him, surprise clear on their faces at the sudden intruder. “Uh… Hi.” He says, moments before a lasso snaps closed around his shoulders. “EEP!” He flops to the ground, eyes trailing the taut rope connecting him to a young man. The young man can’t be over fourteen, a teenager at best, bearing mocha skin and simple ivory markings similar to tattoos. A young girl stands just behind the teen, seeming to be around eight or nine, cheering on the boy in what Silver quickly realizes is Plainsland Zebrican of all things. She wears simple clothes almost identical to her brother’s, though her mocha skin lacks the ivory markings. Both siblings have striped ebony and ivory hair, though the sister’s is easily elbow length. “Hey, hey, sorry for interrupting. My name’s Silver Breeze, Princess Twilight sent me?” A leg enters her field of vision. His eyes trail up the woman’s mocha skin, following ivory and gold. Her clothing leave little to the imagination to make room for future fantasies, especially from this angle. Gold rings adorn her body, a white and black mohawk tops off her distinct look.The woman kneels down, poking his forehead. “Is that so, John Doe? And what brings you to my humble abode? We are far from any plain or road.” The other woman crouchs down nearby, testing the ropes currently digging into his skin. “Boy howdy, ya’ll’re gettin’ mighty good with yer lasso Zief. Gonna give me a run fer mah coin come rodeo season.” The teenage girl, who looks oddly familiar in Silver’s mind, tugs on the rope. “Thank you AB, I just want to make you happy!” The young man warily steps closer, wretching the rope taut. “Might wanna work on yer rhymin’, but yer welcome ya flatterer. Ya’ll got this taken care of Z?” She stands, dusting off her overalls. “The intruder is well cared for, though you’re attention I can’t ignore. Thank you Apple Bloom. You’ll return soon I presume?” The tattooed woman rests her knee on his chest, leaving him an internationally excellent view of her profile. Silver finally gets a good look at the clearing, empty space surrounding a large gnarled tree hung with potion bottles and regents. His eye catches one odd detail amidst the surrealness: The clearing looks subtly unnatural, like the forest is kept back somehow. Since it looks like he’s not going to be a big tasty stew anytime soon, he makes a note to ask about this. “Sure thing Z, see ya’ll tomorrow.” The farmgirl leans over, giving her ‘friend’ a quick peck on the cheek before swaggering into the treeline, following a subtle path barely visible from the foliage. The Nature-Made woman watches her go with a mysterious smile, knee casually digging into Silver’s ribs. His coughing rips her attention away, bringing her focus squarely back onto him. “A friend of Princess Twilight, and a newcomer to my sight. I apologize for my son’s aggression, but you have not answered my question.” She turns that mysterious smile on him, oddly making it harder for him to breath than her knee. The pressure abates from his chest, letting him breath again. “Sorry, I… Uh, can you…” He glances to the ropes around his chest, earning a tug from Zief and a smile from his mother. “Right. Well, my father’s a Nature-Made, and you’re the first I’ve met that wasn’t, you know… related too.” He chuckles nervously, eyeing Zief. The young girl pokes Silver’s shoulder with a stick, before jumping up and shouting something in Zebrican with a giggle. “Do you mind translating? My Plainslands is pretty rusty.” “She says you are no Changeling drone, but are as dense as a pup’s bone.” She grins, her daughter pouting. “Zeif, Zendier, hurry on inside. I will soon be bedside.” The two kids rush inside, leaving Silver to pull himself free from the lasso. Zecora comes to his aid, and soon helps him stand. She’s stronger than she looks, pulling him to his feet with one hand. “I don’t want to be rude. Would you like to come in my abode?” “Oh, certainly! Thank you, and thanks for the save.” She squeezes his hand, pulling him inside before he can complain. “You’re very welcome, young man.” She closes the door behind him, letting him marvel at the heirlooms of their homeland. Trinkets and masks from far across the ocean, speaking of welcome and good fortune. He almost misses Zecora’s return, a bowl of tasty stew in her hand. “While you eat perhaps you could tell me more of your clan? I haven’t heard much of our people upon my arrival, so I’m quite eager to hear more.” She sits him down opposite a firepit, legs crossed as they rest on thick padded cushions. “Sure, I’d love t-” He almost drops the spoon. “Wait, you stopped rhyming.” “A habit born of my tutelage, as I learned Equestrian through song and rhyme. The locals find it entertaining, though often hard to stop feigning. You see?” She laughs, an oddly ominous sound that none the less he can’t help but feel a bit blown by. “Now come, tell me of your father’s home.” Their conversation wanders through the night and two more bowls of stew, brought to an end by the wind rattling against the windows. Zecora looks up, flipping from a single hand to her feet in a smooth display of acrobatics. Silver can’t help but stare at her, watching well toned muscles work under smooth skin and bright tattoos. “The moon has reached its zenith, and dangerous to travel this forest under its embrace. It is time for bed, my new friend, though I only have the one.” She sweeps out of the room, leaving him to put up their dishes. Her voices echoes through the hall as he cleans their bowls in a sink, questioning where she acquired a buffalo water talisman. “I would hope you do not mind sharing?” He turns back to answer, freezing in place. Standing in the moonlight, clad only in tattoos glowing against chocolate skin. Her hair flows free, framing her face on its way to her shoulder. A hand rests on her breast, tracing glimmering ivory as it marks her nipple. The other rests just over her most private parts, shaved bare skin peeking between fingers. She backs out of the moonbeam, a curled finger disappearing around the doorframe. Silver is helpless to her siren’s call, catching a glimpse of her before she vanished yet again. Beads gave way under his hand as he entered her room. He found her sitting on the bed, legs crossed and fingers on her cheek, waiting for him. He couldn’t help but stare at her, memorizing every curve. Her tattoos caressed her curves like the finest lingerie, her own hands sensuously following them. He hadn’t realized he was standing in front of her until he felt his pants unbutton and warm bliss slide over the tip of his cock. “Many moons have passed since I tasted a man of nature, and I only find myself wanting for girth.” She speaks between kisses and teasing licks, hand wrapping around his growing length. His response is stolen away by a gasp, lips of heaven wrapping around his head. Gasp becomes groan as her mouth flows down, tongue flicking back and forth. Knees shake as he places a hand on her head, thinking to slow her before she sucks his very essence out, finding himself only guiding her deeper. A hum slips past his shaft, now finding its way into her velvety throat. Its only after she comes free with a wet pop and a muffled cough that he can even begin to think again, dropping to the bed. “W-What about your… oh god… Your kids?” He has to stop for air as his shaft is swallowed by greedy lips. Zecora stops in her tracks, eyeing him with a mix of incredulity and barely restrained lust. Her teeth tease his head as she comes up again for air, thumb keeping him hard by playing with him. “You are truly a scientist. A woman devours your cock, and you ask her children’s stock?” Her desire abates under a laugh, though her hand now pumps his shaft. “Blood of stone runs through their veins, a rich man whose wife is more pride than brains. Agreeable he found my breed, and so twice donated his seed. Do not think bad of his deed, he gives much more than we need. No deeper than flesh, so we are not misunderstood. He still acts as a good sire should.” Voice a lusty purr, her rhymes end abruptly as she rises to her knees. “I’m… I’m only a half blood myse-” He cuts off, feeling something hot and wet land on his shaft. Drip, drip, drip Now straddling him, she lets him see her soaking wet pussy, even as she lowers herself down to press the head against her lips. He gives an involuntary twitch, completely at her mercy, unable to tear his eyes away. And with a wink, she places his hands on her hips, holding there. “We may talk, or we may fuck, but do not keep me waiting.” She leans down, heaving breasts against his chest and lips against his. “And do not be gentle.” That final whisper breaks his resolve. His hands squeeze her hips, getting a firm hold before pulling her down. Tight lips resist for a heartbeat before swallowing, hips slapping against hips as twin gasps meet. She moans his name, breathy and euphoric, and he gives her no time to recover. His cock slides out until only the soaking wet head remains, slamming back into her with a clap of ass on thighs. A deep moan accompanies her pussy gripping his cock, desperate to stay filled even as he pulls free for another thrust. Though her back arches like a cat’s, both are soon covered in a thin layer of sweat and sex. Though Silver was no virgin, a certain shamaness had seen to that, he could barely keep up with the mature woman riding his dick with hungry abandon. Sensing a moment of weakness, Zecora pounces like a panther. Soon she’s bouncing of her own accord, overwhelming him in a torrent of kisses, bites, and licks. Her breasts bounce alluringly in the moonlight, rolling in her hands. “Mmmm, a ride like no other. Care to show yourself worthy of your markings, mate?” She lifts her breast, nipple vanishing between her lips. Silver groans, forcing her to roll over. Head resting on her pillow and legs in the air, she grins like a cat as he adjusts to the new position. She starts to contemplate taking control again and finishing her ride when a sharp sting appears on her rump, a slap filling the air. “Ah! Naughty boooooooy~” She groans, melting into a moan as his balls slap against her, cock deeper than any man’s before it. He starts to rut her with a fiery passion, catching one of her bouncing breasts and trapping it between his teeth. She whimpers something in her native tongue, legs wrapping around his hips to trap him inside, moments before something snaps within her. At once her body starts to shiver and spasm, eyes rolling back as her moans grow to a fever pitch. Juices soak past Silver’s cock as her walls attack him with a deathgrip and relentless spasms. “Z-Zecora, l-let m-oh FUCK.” His feeble attempts to pull away are dashed, her silken walls desperately holding on. He falls forward, thrusting his cock as deep as it will go, grinding his hips to her as pleasure burns into his mind. He tenses, his cock gives one final twitch, and he explodes within her. Her own orgasm redoubles as his seed fills her, painting her pussy white. Heartstopping seconds finally fade, and the mates collapse. Cum leaks past his still twitching cock, dripping down her ass to stain the disheveled blankets below. “Oh… Oh geeze… Zecora, that was…” Silver gasps for breath, finding his cheek pressed against her voluptuous breasts and finding no better pillow in the world. “Quite the ride, I’ll admit.” She basks in the afterglow, rolling to their side, keeping a leg around his. “In the morning, perhaps round two?” “I’ve got a month before my next expedition, you know. If you want… I could keep score.” He winks, fighting back a yawn. Sex and passion are rewarding, but the night had been long. And with the promise of more in the future, the newly christened mates drift away to sleep. Two months pass without delay. Silver spends his days working with Twilight, his nights learning from Zecora, and every idle moment growing to dread the day he finally has to leave. Growing closer to the sultry shamaness, who proves very knowledgeable about their people. In between caring for her children and meeting her friends, the two discovering from their tattoos that they actually share a connection to the same tribe, distant it may be. Surprises and adventures are had, from helping Zief and Zendier flee from Timberwolves to discovering just how close Zecora is to her cowgirl apprentice. But all things must come to an end. And this is how Silver Breeze finds himself cresting the first hill on a long and meandering road, hat and golden necklace blown by a wandering wind. A man looks back over the city, eyes sliding across the forest to where he knows home lays. His fist clasps around the keepsake for his time here, a silver locket on the end of his new necklace, memories safely within. Part of him beyond description urges him to turn back, to go to her arms. But the wind is blow, the road calls. Steelhorn lands wait, and with it countless opportunities to learn. In the distance, just within the swaying treeline, he sees them. A trio of figures, come to see him off in this final moment. From here he can barely see the tattoos upon all three, a smile coming to his lips as he remembers holding little Zendier’s hand on her nineth’s birthday. He takes up his hat, using it to wave. Shouted promises of his return carry upon the wind, borne upon its grace to tearful faces. Zecora watches him turn, in time, and disappear over the horizon. The chill in her heart isn’t sorrow, not exactly, but she knows she will mourn his absence soon. She ushers her children back into the safety of the wood, deciding to believe in her mate’s promise. His parting kiss still fresh on her lips and memory burned into her mind, she smiles. “He will return, so the lantern will burn.” She whispers to herself, and to the keepsake he left behind. Her hand rests on her belly for a brief moment more, before she too disappears into those mysterious woods.