> The Equestrian Renegade
>  by Rene9adeKni9ht
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> Prologue
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I'm going to be honest, I'm a little freaked out now.. One minute I'm practicing my martial arts (so I can stay in shape and keep the stress levels down, you know what I mean?), and trying to stay warm (it's really really REALLY cold this time of year--actually it's always cold in Skyrim, I'm not sure if I have mentioned this or not. So I'm in Skyrim, and in case you missed it, IT'S COLD!), anyway, where was I? Oh yeah! So anyway, one minute I'm just doing my thing, and the next I hear a fireball explosion echoing throughout the forest. This wasn't a real surprise for me anymore--as rogue mages, adapts, and warlocks are always at each others throats, and it's always a fire and ice mage that are fighting. Always!

But, unfortunately, it is my duty to maintain order and peace within the empire...even if it is just a couple of rogue mages acting like children, seeing which of them is better. But perhaps it could be a Flame Atronach this time, I thought. I didn't really need much, because magic users and even Flame Atronachs are only a problem when they are at a distance and I could always get in close enough to take them out. I have always been good at stealth missions and ambush assaults. I'm not the best because I don't use a bow, but I do decent amount of damage without one.

Anyway, I'm getting off track here. Like I said, I didn't need much for this, just my enchanted stalhrim sword--one that I custom made myself, and an ebony dagger.

With my weapons in hand, I jogged through the Pinewood forest of Falkreath hold, using the echoes of the ensuing battle to guide me, and keeping to the shadows as best as I could. The midday wind was biting at my exposed flesh, since I wasn't wearing armor to protect me (didn't really need it anymore since the war was over and I could move much quicker without it), and aside from the fireball explosion, the only sounds were that of twigs being crushed beneath my feet.

The fight sounded like it was coming from the barrow or somewhere near it, meaning I had about a 10 minute jog between my home of Lakeview manor and the old crypt. I try to avoid the place as much as possible. The thing is about these old crypts is the dead having trouble staying that way. Trolls I'm willing to fight, but a walking corpse with a weapon? Not a chance. As I drew nearer and nearer, I kept hearing the battle--from fireballs and ice shards being thrown through the air. Ugh! Damnit, its another mage fight!, I thought, but there was this other sound-something I haven't heard in a while, like a portal being opened. "What the hell?", I said quietly, while slowing my pace from a jog to a stealthily approach.

As I neared the the barrow, I saw several mages fighting off the draugr, while others were fleeing through a portal. The few that made it through were the lucky ones, but there were those who weren't quite as fortunate...their bodies littered the floor of the ruins; the blood of the fallen, spilling off over the ledge and on to the forest floor below. Then all that was left was just one poor Altmer bastard, who was badly injured. The few draugr that remained were weakened by the ethereal onslaught. As quiet as a mouse, I drew my dagger from its sheath as I crept slowly forward to finish off the remaining "dust walkers" as some in the legion have called them. With as quick slash of my blade, one by one, they fell before me, until there was one remaining.

I thought that this would be easy, but this guy? This mother fucker was a damned Deathlord! I probably should have grabbed my armor AND a maul when I had the chance, I thought. But it seemed to have been severely damaged, so naturally I was confident, perhaps overconfident, that I could finish it before it knew I was even there, and NOT make a tactical retre-I mean advancement towards future victories, that's what I meant! Heh heh yeah...UGH! Fine, you want the truth about what happened the last time I fought one of these things? Well here you go, you pricks. When I realized what a Deathlord was capable of doing, I screamed like a little girl, and ran away like the chicken-shit-pansy that I am...

But not this time! The Altmer was badly wounded and I needed answers about where the others went to. Wherever they went-wherever the portal sent them to-it couldn't have been good. Fortunate for me that the undead had not sensed my presence just yet. Its focus was on the mage and slaying him for disturbing its slumber and for intruding upon its ancestral home.

I sheathed my dagger, fearing that should I miss a vital target, or my presence made known, a dagger would not be the best weapon for a prolonged battle. I readied my sword and slowly whispered, "Here we go." The draugr lumbered forward, its axe raised, ready to slay the elf.

One quick thrust, that's all I need, thinking to myself. The Gods must have thought that it would be funny if a hunter were to kill it instead, and so that is what had happened...yup, an arrow flew pass my head and ended up making the draugr dead...again...and when I turned around to lecture the son of a bitch, he was already running down the path chasing after a fox like a damn mad man.

"Are you out of your mind?!" I shouted. He merely turned around and waved at me...I don't think I'll ever understand hunters and their need to chase after a little-

A cough coming from the now dying mage interrupted my thoughts. Oh shit! Focus Ren,I thought. Oh, I'm Ren, by the way. Its short for Renegade. Yes, I know, its not an actual name, but that is what I prefer to be called. Even the general calls me 'Legate Ren', and that is the way I want it to stay. I don't want anyone finding out my real name. Maybe one day, as you continue to read this, I'll tell you.

The elf was bleeding pretty badly, and was barely conscious. If I didn't act fast, he would have die and I wouldn't have any answers. I noticed that he had a potion in his hands, which were shaking, so I grabbed it and prayed that it was a healing potion. Thank the Gods that it was.

Applying the healing elixir, the mage regained full consciousness. And now it was time for answers . . . or it would have been, if he had not run through the portal. Yes, it was still opened, but I wanted to know where it led to. Throwing caution to the wind, I went in after him, praying that this wasn't going to be another delve into a plane of Oblivion. After crossing through, everything went black as I hit my head against a tree and I fell unconscious...

When I woke up, my vision was all blurry, my head was throbbing with pain, and my...well okay, I was hurting everywhere. With no way of knowing where I was, I remained motionless and waited for my vision to return to me. It didn't take long though, thank the divines. But I felt drained and weak. What happened? Wherever I was, it was no longer Skyrim, nor any part of Tamriel...or at least I don't believe that any of the other provenance that I'm familiar with. The forest that I now inhabit was far more colorful than the Pinewood forest of Falkreath hold, and it seem to feel safer too. If that makes any sense. But there was no time to admire the scenery, not while there was a fleeing, and perhaps a dangerous High Elf mage to inter-huh?
"Wait, where did he go?"

He wasn't here--none of the escaping mages were here...wherever here is, anyway. And to make matters worse, when I looked behind me for the portal, it was gone! I'm trapped here.  
Well...fuck this is quite the pickle I've got myself into. I didn't have any clue as to where I should go, so I did what any would-be survivor would do: climb a tree and get my bearings. There had to be a town or some form of settlement nearby, and if there is, maybe I could get help and perhaps find out where those mages went to. Surely someone saw where they went . . . I hope . . .

The instant that I thought about the climb up, I worried that I might not be able to do it. I still felt drained from my arrival, but what other choice did I have at the moment? It had to be done.
Come on, Ren, I tried motivating myself, you can do this. Hell the legion practically prepared you for this. Reaching out for the nearest branch, I tested its strength and was relieved that it could hold my weight. That was the easy part, but trying to heave myself off the ground and on to the branch was far more difficult than what I had thought.

The rest of the climb was a little difficult but still manageable, to a point. My body screamed in agony the more I ascended, causing me to halt my progress on a branch about half way up. From my elevated perch, I surveyed my surroundings, looking for any signs of intelligent life, but there wasn't any that I could see.

Wait, is that a...I spotted what seemed to be a trail, leading away from the forest. Perhaps I should follow it after I make a survey of the land from the forest canopy, I thought. With that in mind, I resumed my climb until the canopy was within my reach. My strength had nearly failed me, but once I was at the top I felt rejuvenated. Looking around from the view of the treetops, I've noticed that this strange new world looked as though it was made entirely out of pastel colors-almost as if I had stepped into a painting...again (long story, explain to you later), yet this all seemed so real. Breathing in heavily and filling my lungs to their full capacities, I exhaled, only to see my breath, meaning that it was either winter, or I was in a northern hemisphere where the air is so cold all year long.

Gazing around, I saw mountains, as towering as the ones in Skyrim, off in the distance. There was something strange on one of the mountain peaks though, almost like the monastery at the top of the 7,000 steps. This was a castle-no, a whole kingdom! I knew that there had to be life here! The kingdom, however, seemed to be a great distance away from me; I've estimated that it would take me 2-4 days at the very least and as long as 5-10 just on foot. So, that was out of the question but still, where there is a kingdom, there must be a village nearby. Once more, I surveyed my surroundings for something-anything that could help. And that was when I saw it, a puff of smoke coming from a chimney! It seemed to be an hour away at the most, and the path I saw earlier looked as though it was heading in the same direction. Now that I had a general idea of what I should do, the next part was the climb down, which I wasn't looking forward to. As I started my descent, albeit very slowly, a few questions flooded my mind. Where am I? I kept asking myself question after question the lower I went, resting only for a short breather on the same branch as before. How am I going to get back to Skyrim? Why did those mages come here for? Where did they go? And most importantly, What am I going to eat?...What? I can't possibly find/fight a group of mages on an empty stomach, now can't I?

I was about to climb down the rest of the way, when I suddenly heard voices off in the distance, and from the sounds of it, there were three voices that belonged to little girls. Why would three little girls be out here for? Were they playing? I remained on my perch, observing the forest for any signs of them. I could barely make out the conversations the children were having...

"So, now dat we got our cutie marks," a country voi-wait? A country style voice? Could it be? And what the hell is a cutie mark? "What do y'all girls wanna do?" the country girl continued. There is no way...this could not be. I don't remember any castles back home.

"Well," a tomboyish voiced girl started. Still no signs of them. "I honestly don't know. It took us forever to get our cutie marks that we haven't really thought about what we were going to do afterwards."

"Well maybe we should-" the country girl started but paused for whatever the reason, then she resumed. "Sweetie Belle, what in tarnation are you looking at?"

"There's something in that tree, over there." a more sweet and somewhat regal voice-Sweetie Belle I guess was her name. But I still couldn't see them.

"Hello? Where are you?" I called out to them.

"We're down here." Sweetie Belle said, sounding very curious and gentle.

Casting my gaze down, I still didn't see the girls. Though I did see three pastel colored...horses? I stared at them, and they stared right back. Each of them had different colors on their coats: one was yellow with a reddish mane and tail, and is that a bowtie on its head? The one in the front had an alabaster white coat with a mixture of light violet and pink mane and tail, and the last one-wait a second; does that little white horse have a horn? The last one was orange coated and has a maroon mane and tail...and tiny wings?

"What is that?" the orange one said, with the tomboyish voice from earlier...yeah huh, remember when I said that I was freaked out? Well, this is why: I just saw a little winged horse talk! And then the others started talking too. Note to self:
No more mead. I thought.

The white one with the horn spoke up, "What are you? Are you lost?" Her voice sounded like Sweetie Belle's...

"Are you...Sweetie Belle?" I asked. I can't believe I'm talking to a horse...thing.

"Yes," she replied. At that moment, my world was turned inside out, and I didn't know what to think. Rather than staying up in a tree all day, I climbed down until I about a foot or two away from the ground, to which I leaped from the branch, and landed on my feet in front of them. But instead of standing back up, I remained crouched down, so as to not scare them off. They seemed mesmerized by my appearance. Am I the only human here? That can't be.

"What the hay is that thing?" the tomboyish, winged horse said to the one with the bowtie.

"Ah don't know, Scoots, but maybe we outta bring him to Twilight." Twilight? Was this Twilight the leader of these creatures? Only one way to find out.

"Look, I don't know who or what you are, but I need answers," I said, using a confident voice that spoke with authority. "Please, take me to whomever is in charge." Finishing my request, I stood up, reaching my full height.

"Whoa," they all said in unison. They had to crank their little necks up just to look at me, and I, in turn, had to crank my neck down so as to see them. They were only up to my knees.

"Well mister," the yellow country voiced horse stated, "Maybe we outta have y'all wait here? Ah reckon yur height will likely scare everypony." Staying out here wouldn't do, I needed answers. Hmmm...maybe...I thought that perhaps these strange creatures could at least answer some of the basic questions that I have.

"Where am I?" Surely they could answer that.

"You're in Equestria," Sweetie Belle declared...okay, yeah. I'm not familiar with that name of provenance and I'm damn sure of it that its not part of Tamriel. I need to speak to this Twilight, whomever that may be.

"Where is the nearest settlement from here?"

"Ponyville is dat way," the yellow horse said, while using her hoof to point in the direction of the path I had noticed from my elevated perch. She started to hum a bit while rubbing the back of her head with her hoof, then said, "Maybe y'all should stay at our clubhouse, while we go get Twilight." Well, it was better than staying out in the forest.

"Okay," I sighed in defeat. I was hoping to be able to meet this Twilight in person on my own, but it seemed that I had no choice but to heed to the wishes of these creatures. "Lead the way."

"Ah'm Applebloom," the yellow horse said, "this here is Scootaloo, and this is Sweetie Belle." Applebloom introduced her friends to me. The orange one with the wings being Scootaloo, and I already knew who Sweetie Belle was. There was one thing I had noticed about them. They each had these small shield crests on their flanks. Not sure what those were, but it didn't matter at the time. I just needed to know where those mages went to, and if I could ever get back to Skyrim. You may be wondering, why don't I just say home instead of Skyrim. Well, believe it or not, I'm not from Skyrim, or even Tamriel for that matter.

You want to know where I'm from? Then stick around, for this journey has only begun...
> Chapter 1:  And so it begins. . .
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"So what exactly are you?" Scootaloo repeated my first question as we waited within the confines of the "Cutie Mark Crusaders" clubhouse. The little fillies were ever so curious about me, not to my surprise. Applebloom--an earth pony--suggested that we engage in dialect and…well okay, let's be honest here.  These were children, and children ask a lot of questions.  So we basically played a game of 20 questions, all about me of course, while Sweetie Belle went to find Twilight.  So, I decided to indulge them as we waited. These creatures, I have discovered, are ponies blessed with intellectual thoughts, emotions, and, in some cases, magic.  There are 3 basic kinds of ponies, each with different attributes. 

Earth ponies, like Applebloom, are much more physically stronger than Unicorn ponies, though most underestimate them because of a lack of magic. Pegasi, like Scootaloo, are gifted with weather magic, if that makes any sense.  Apparently, all they need to do is jump, or buck a cloud and they can make it produce rain, somehow.  And finally, there are the magic users known as Unicorns, who could create something wonderful out of nothing with a mere thought.  I wonder if Sweetie Belle could do any of that?

"Well, I am a human," I replied with an answer.  "More specifically, I am considered a Breton."

"What's a 'Breton'?" Applebloom asked. Now, I could have gone into a lengthy discussion about that topic, and I probably would have, but I wanted to know more about this land that I now occupy.  However, I also didn't want to stray from the rules of our little game, so I improvised an answer.

"A Breton is a type of human, and a human is what I am."  Which is pretty much the basic truth.

"How many types of humans are there?"  This time it was Scootaloo who inquired.  I'm not sure if they know how the game of 20 questions work, or maybe they do and I'm the one who is confused.  I had never once played it before.  Scratching my goatee, I spoke and answered her.

"There are 4 different kinds of humans back in Tamriel.  Each of us so much different from the other."

"Oh wow," she spoke in awe.  I shifted in my position on the ground, because there wasn't a chair big enough for me to sit in. We've been at this for a while now and I was starting to wonder if Sweetie Belle was going to come back and save me from her friends’ relentless questioning.  Their questions have ranged from who I am and what are those 'little worm things' at the end of my hooves, to why am I so tall and, finally, if I had a cutie mark or not. 

The sound of trotting hooves could be heard from the outside, along with the familiar voice of Sweetie Belle.  She seemed to be excited about introducing me to whomever it is she has brought with her.  I thought that perhaps she was bringing just this Twilight individual I've been hearing so much about, but there was this other voice, which sounded very regal and elegant. Could that be this Twilight?, I thought.

"I'm telling you, he's HUGE! I've never seen anything like him!"  She practically screamed out her excitement.

"Sweetie Belle, please calm down, deary, there is no need for you to yell," the regal voice spoke.  From the sound alone, I immediately thought that this was a voice of royalty, and wondered if this Twilight was someone of importance.

"Sorry Rarity, but this is just so exciting!"  Sweetie Belle once again spoke, sounding very giddy.  But none of that mattered; what concerned me was the name she just spoke:  'Rarity'.  Who is this Rarity? I wondered.  Then another voice spoke.  This one sounded more of a scholar, and didn't carry the elegance or nobility of that of this Rarity, but still, I could sense a great deal of power and authority behind it.

"Well, whatever it is," the owner of the new voice spoke, "I'm sure it isn't that strange."  The three of them started to sound very close now. They were almost here.

"You're probably right, Twilight darling," the noble sounding Rarity declared, "but should we not inform the others first?"  I focused on the name that Rarity spoke.  So, Twilight was, indeed, with them.  From what the CMC have told me, if anyone can help me find those mages and return to Skyrim, it was her.  I hope that they were right.

Applebloom and Scootaloo immediately stood up and raced outside to welcome their friend back, and to greet the new guests, leaving me behind. Alone now, I surveyed the clubhouse and noticed this strange poster on the wall.  It was marked with various images, all of which have been scribbled to the point that the original image is indescribable. Did this have something to do with the mysterious cutie marks these little fillies were talking about?  There were also only 2 desks and chairs within the center of the room and one podium placed towards the back. Were there only 3 members?  I removed my sword from my waist and placed it on the ground in front of me, as I entered my meditative stance, while I waited for the others to return. 

The sudden noises of brushing bushes interrupted my concentration, and I went to investigate it. From the window of the clubhouse, I peered my head outside to glance around and I saw someone off in the distance:  a robed figure-a mage! This was an opportunity that I couldn't waste, I need answers. This Twilight would have to wait. Sorry girls, I thought, but I have to do this.  I proceeded to grab my sword and leapt from the window, grabbing the branch of the tree that the clubhouse was built upon, and landed softly onto the grass below. From above me I could hear the frantic cries of the ponies, wondering where I had vanished to. I wished to meet Twilight and ask for her assistance, but that would mean that the mage would have gotten away. I have to do this on my own for now.

Stepping lightly, so as to minimize the sound of my footsteps, I crouched down and followed the mage through the dense forest, using the trees as coverage. I hid behind the nearest tree and took a peak around it to keep an eye on this rogue adapt. I noticed the long, luscious, brown hair that swayed in the wind and over their pointy ears.  A woman perhaps, I thought. When I was able to catch a glimpse of her face, it was very elegant and pristine. A High elf; obviously not the same one that I followed through the portal, but more importantly, I noticed that she was alone.  Okay, so that's one, but where are the others? I wondered.

She dug through her pouch, pulling out a small crystalline gem.  I highly doubt it was a soul gem, as there was nothing around for her to soul trap.  A dim, bluish light illuminated from her palm and she began to speak.

"There's nothing here," she spoke.  "Laften must have been wrong."

Who is she talking to? I wondered. And who is Laften? Then I heard yet another voice. This one sounded very raspy, almost like an Argonian, but where was it coming from? There weren't any other mages around but her. So that must mean that the crystal...I waited, in silence to confirm my suspicions. 

"Excellent," the voice spoke, "return to the lair as soon as poss-" the voice WAS coming from the crystal.  I wanted to hear more, but the all too familiar sound of galloping hooves and the voices of the CMC prevented that. Looking over my shoulder, I saw an image I didn't need to see at the time:  5 ponies galloping through the forest in my direction. 

"There he is!" The three fillies shouted.

"Bad timing," I murmured softly.  I turned my attention back towards the Altmer mage, but she was already running away.  Oh no you don't, I thought, and I pursued her.  I can't lose her.  She could tell me everything I need to know.  I have to find those other mages, and return them back to Skyrim...my home far away from home...

I ran as fast as I could, hoping beyond hope that I could catch her.  But she halted her retreat, and threw the same gem she held out from earlier on to the ground, smashing it in the process.  As soon as it shattered, like glass, a blue mist covered her; and when it disbursed, she was gone.  How? I had no idea; it was a mystery.

"NO," I screamed, "DAMNIT!" My opportunity was gone, all because of those damn equines...turning around, I saw that they were getting closer. I still had time to study the ground for any sort of clues, as to what had happened.  There were charred remnants of what was once grass, from where the Altmer had thrown the gem, but there was also a single piece of the gem left.  I picked it up, thinking that perhaps it could be useful...and that was when I saw this strange etching upon the ground.  Like an arcane mark of some kind, sort of like a...

Oh, fuck me running, I thought.  It was a rune spell...and I was standing in it.  The galloping of hooves sounded even closer now.  I had to stop them, the rune spell could harm them!

"STAY BACK!"  I shouted, throwing my hands up to stop their progression.  Then, as if on cue, a familiar sound entered my ears.  The sound of ethereal energy being released.  "Oh sh-"

The rune exploded, releasing the magical essence; however, unlike most of the rune spells that I have encountered throughout my journeys, there was nothing; no burning blaze, nor freezing grasp, nor disintegrating shock. Yet, within placement of all those, came the familiar sensation of rage and anger-which I had locked away long ago, as a red mist of the ethereal energy shrouded me.

The mist swirled around me-almost as if it were drawn to me, like buzzards to carrion. Though the spell did not harm me, physically, I was enthralled by a lust of blind rage; were it not for the lectures instilled to me by my former martial arts mentor-my master, as he he would have me call him, my reawakened rage would have consumed me. Then the strange mist was drawn into me, and as if by some miracle, it all vanished, as if nothing had happened. The anger just went away, as did the energy from the spell, and in their place, I felt sincerity, calm, and refreshment, as if my energy was restored; I did not know why the feeling of rage had so suddenly been replaced by serenity. But I knew as to why the spell had vanished...

"Ren," the three fillies, who thus had caught up to me and shouted their voices in unison, sounded worried over me...why? "Are you alright?"

The two mares, who had accompanied with them-their gazes transfixed upon me, and I, in turn, did the same-almost as if we were studying each other. Though, in retrospect, we probably were. One was a brilliant white coated unicorn who bore three sapphire blue gems on her flanks, and had quite possibly the most stylish purple mane and tail I had ever seen on a horse OR a pony; the other mare was a purple coated one who looked so similar to that of a unicorn but she also had wings...I've never seen such a thing. She also had twinkling sparkles upon her flanks, and I thought that perhaps that these markings reflected a pony's name. They kept their distance from me for the time being, their mouths were agape as they stood motionless and in silence. Perhaps I truly am the only human that these creatures have ever seen. I find that hard to believe.

The frightful voices of the fillies broke my attention from the mares. It seems I could never escape their curious nature. "What in tarnation was that explosion?" Applebloom asked, "and why did y'all just up and left like dat?"

"Yeah," Scootaloo replied, "you had us worried, big guy."

At the moment, I was thankful that they seem to care for my safety, though I really don't understand it. And while I should feel enraged at them-for they were he reason the mage had gotten away before I could question her, my mind was drawn to the rune spell. What sort of spell was that, and why did it not harm me as others have? I wondered-could it have had other effects on me that I hadn't discovered? Or was it a mere testing spell that the elf was conducting, and failed?

"What in Equestria is that. . .thing?", Twilight spoke up. I averted my gaze from the worrisome fillies to the unique creature that stood before me. It's purple mane-which sported a light violet highlight running the length of it, swayed lightly in the breeze. Her tail, also, sported the same colors and highlights. She tilted her head in confusion, and her eyes were quickly scanning all over me-trying to decipher my origins.

I took a step forward, ever so cautiously so as to not cause any fright within her, and spoke calmly, "You must be this Twilight I've been hearing so much about."

This news caught Twilight by surprise, and I'm guessing peaked her curiosity, as her head went back to its original position, and her ears seem to stretch towards the sky. "The girls were right, it can talk!" She practically shouted in excitement, as she smiled with glee at this newfound revelation; her excited smile, however, resided and was quickly reformed to that of a more curious look, as she raised her brows before questioning, "but more importantly, what caused that explosion? Was it some kind of a spell?"

I cleared my throat, and rubbed the back of my head with my hand, "Your guess is as good as mine. I've never encountered a spell like that before."

"So you mean that it WAS a spell? And you've seen magic before?"

"Many times," I responded, while stroking my goatee, "though not one such as this before. All the other rune spells would cause some kind of damage or even poison some unfortunate victim. But with this one, there was-" I paused, thinking briefly on what I should say next and wondered if it was important to mention at the time. Twilight caught onto my hesitation, and spoke up once again.

"There was just what, exactly?"

I shook my head, clearing my thoughts. "Never mind that now," I replied with hast in my words, and the familiar sensation of rage, that had crept over me before, had returned. I stared directly upon the fillies, and I was nearly overwhelmed with a sense of loathing. Clenching my fists, I snapped at them. "I almost had her, until you lot showed up! She could have answered my questions!"

The change in my temper resulted in the CMC stepping away from me in fright. Their little faces bore the unmistakable look of fear, but with a hint of sadness too, as I watched their eyes fill with watery tears. "We're sorry Ren," Applebloom wimppered, almost reminded me of a sad puppy. These were innocent children, who had done nothing but shown concern for my wellbeing, and here I was, snapping at them.

Why am I so angry? I asked myself. I took a few deep breaths, which usually helps when I feel angered or stressed, and for the most part it seemed to have worked. "I apologize..." I spoke softly. I opened my mouth to speak again, when something out of the corner of my eye, moving slowly through the trees. I focused on the movement, ignoring the ponies almost entirely. Whatever the two mares wanted, I didn't care. This needed to be investigated.

From a distance, it looked as if it could be yet another mage, though the red glowing eyes that seems to pierce through my very soul told me that it could something else. Dark elf, if I was lucky; a dremora, if I wasn't. This creature-whatever it is, could be dangerous. I continued to stare at it, and probably would have kept on staring for as long as possible.

"Uh, Ren?" Scootaloo spoke, nudging my hand in a attempt to regain my focus. It worked for the most part, I was broken out of my daze, which caused me to shack my head in an attempt to refocus. And when I came too, the shadowy figure was gone.

Looking back down at Scootaloo, I rubbed the spot between my eyes, groaning, "What is it?" Scootaloo says that I was staring off in the distance for a while without saying a word and ignoring the others. "Sorry, there was something over there. I'm sure you've seen it too."

The confusion in their eyes told me that they had not. How couldn't they? It was right out in the open, in plain sight-wasnt it? I had to see if there were any tracks. I walked towards where I saw it last, urging the ponies to follow me, and yet when we arrived, there were no tracks of any kind. However, the path from earlier-the one that I had spotted from the tree, seemed to be leading away.

"Where does this path lead to?"  I asked, not taking my eyes off of it in the case of the shadowy figure were to return. Rarity spoke up, saying that it leads towards the Ponyville park. If I were a betting man, I would guess that the creature would be hiding somewhere within the forest. But just to be safe, I quickly glanced around for any signs of it or the mage that got away. Nothing. . .I knew, however, that I would find them again.

"Excuse me, mister Ren?" Twilight spoke up, "but it is getting rather late, and the weather ponies are about to start winter. Perhaps it would be best if you would accompany us back to the castle?" 

I nodded in agreement, allowing them to lead the way. We exchanged in some small dialect, until we reached the edge if the forest. I emerged; and for the second time since my arrival, I was awestruck as I beheld this land in it's beauty. The land overflowed with bright colors and abundance of life. . .yet the skies seemed so pleak and grey. I saw a quaint little village off in the distance as we walked passed a very artistic looking water fountain, and for some unknown reason, I felt as if I had just ran a marathon, as I began gasping for a breathe of air.

"Could *pant* could we *pant* take a break *pant*?" I tried calling out. The CMC were the first to turn around and ran back to check up on me. I sat down on the fountain-completely red in the face, unable to breath. If any of them had said anything, I couldn't hear it, for I started to lose consciousness. My vision began to blur and finally blackened as I fell forward onto the dirt road, face first. 


*some time later*


I mind awokened, though I kept my eyes closed. The ping of some contraption kept me from falling back to slumber and the somewhat unpleasant smell filled my nostrils. I felt warm, as I could feel a thick blanket had been wrapped around me, and while the bed I laid upon wasn't the most comforting one I had laid on in recent months, it would suffice. The sound of trotting hooves began to enter my ears, as I slowly opened my eyes, only to see everything was once again blurry. The image of the pony-however-was illuminated by the moonlight beaming from a nearby window; though most of her was difficult to see, the fancy mane helped me to determine the owner.

"Rarity?" I groaned, "is that you?"

She giggled a bit and spoke aloud with a voice I was not familiar with. "Nope; my name is Starlight Glimmer. Here, let me get the lights." The room instantly became filled with light, and my vision started clearing up. It was then that I saw her for the first time; an elegant looking unicorn mare of light violet fur, who's mane and tail were dark purple with an aqua blue highlight running through them. She smiled at me, and asked if I was feeling any better.

"I think so," I replied, rubbing my eye lids. "Where am I?"

"You're in Ponyville hospital. The others brought you here, after you collapsed, and are waiting out in the lobby. Though Princess Twilight left to send a message to inform Princess Celestia about you. Oh, and she also has your weapons, for safe keeping." 

So Twilight is a princess? I asked myself. It would explain her unique appearance. I looked into Starlight's violet eyes, and asked what was she doing here with me?

"Twilight asked me to watch over you," she then began to stutter with her words, "a-and I figured that this would be an excellent time to study you," Starlight declared, but immediately blushed once she realized what she had just said aloud, and attempted to correct herself, "I-I-I mean-"

I cut her off, "I understand; purely for the sake of knowledge." She nodded rapidly in response. We talked for a while, getting to know each other better, and I learned that she is the student of Twilight, Princess of 'friendship', and that Starlight herself is exceptionally gifted in magic. The door to my room opened, revealing another pony of white fur saying that visiting hours are over. 

"Oh well," Starlight sighed in disappointment, "maybe we can pick this up again tomorrow?" She looked at me as if she were hoping that I would agree.

I nodded, "I would like that very much." We bid each other farewell and a pleasant night.





The moon cast its light over the small town of Ponyville, illuminating its darkened alleyways and empty streets. Though this town did appear to have been Ponyville, it was as cold as Skyrim. I walked through the empty streets, my visuals obstructed by the mist that shrouded this peaceful little town of colorful, magical, talking equines. I'm not sure where I was heading, or why I was wandering through the town in the middle of the night, yet I felt compelled to do this. I continued to wander aimlessly, until I spotted the town fountain near the park, and I felt as if it were beckoning me to approach. Upon reaching the fountain, I looked around for any signs of life, expecting to find nobody. And just then, I saw the form of a pony, near the shrubbery behind the fountain; it was a mare, who seemed so familiar. She remained motionless. . .

The shrubbery shook with activity, as a grotesque and gnarled figure-not a pony, but a human-approached her. It's skin was as pale as snow. . .almost lifeless, in fact. And it's clothings were so like my own; but they had withered from poor maintenance.

"Hey, who are you? I asked. The figure ignored me. I was about to repeat myself, but I held my breath as the figure brought his mouth to the pony's neck. That was when I had noticed the color of crimson flowing down the pony's neck. . .and the familiar scent of blood filled my nostrils. I took a step back, failing to notice the rock behind me, and I tripped. It was at that time that the monster had jerked it's head from it's meal and gazed at me. It's feral red eyes pierced through my very soul. The vampire abandoned it's meal, and charged at me. I watched in shock and horror, and screamed, as the vampire's fangs bore into my neck. . .





I screamed as I awoke from my nightmare, drenched in sweat. I looked around the room to see that I was still within the hospital and that nothing else was in there with me. Though this all confirmed it, I still reached my hand up to my neck to feel for anything out of the ordinary. To my relief, there was nothing; but why, I wondered, would I have such a horrid nightmare of a vampire, once again? What's happening to me?
> Chapter 2: Questioning reality
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I lay awake in my makeshift hospital bed - which was enlarged by, I can only assume, magic. Beads of sweat cling to my face. My screaming had alerted the hospital staff, I suppose, as they rushed into my room, and began to check my vitals, as well as ask me an endless amount of questions.

  I told them all that I had a nightmare - though I decided to withold the part about the vampire. That would only raise even more questions, because I'm guessing that these. . . I can't believe I'm actually saying this. . . Talking ponies (sigh) have never heard of - let alone seen - a vampire before. A few months ago, if you would have told me that I would somehow end up being trapped in a world of pastel colored, talking equines called Equestria, I would have called you a 'crazed skooma addicted', and would proceed to haul your ass to Cidhna Mine. But lo and behold - for here I am, stuck (as far as I know) in Equestria. Though I am not the only one here. I have to find those mages.

  My mind grew restless - every time I close my eyes to try and get some sleep, I would see those feral eyes staring back at me. Why would I even have nightmares of such a creature? I would ask myself, as I toss and turned in bed, desperate to get some sleep. But no answer would come to me. Despite being haunted by those terrifying eyes, however, my body cried for sleep - as did my mind. And so I once again tried to sleep, hoping beyond hope that perhaps I could, and right now, hope is the one thing that I've got left . . .so far from home, and friends; I wonder if any of them know that I'm missing?




  I once again dreamt of a very familiar scene, and saw the vampire, feeding off of the poor pony. And as color began to return to its lifeless body, I heard a loud "knock, knock, knock" coming from somewhere. I paniced - thinking that the undead monster had heard it too, and so I ran as fast as I could. The ground - if not, the whole world - began to shake, causing me to lose my balance. I turned around - only to find the monster sprinting towards me! It lept at me, fangs ready to tear into me. But before it could get any closer to feed upon me, a blinding light enveloped me, and I heard an all too familiar voice of -

  "Ren," it cried out to me, "are you awake?" I opened my eyes, and was greeted by the unicorn, Starlight Glimmer. She had the most distraught look about her face - almost like she was concerned for me. But as soon as I smiled weakly at her, to let her know that I was okay, a small smile crept upon her face. I glanced around the room, and saw two other ponies standing with her. One I recognized to be the one known as Twilight Sparkle, whom - according to Starlight - is an Alicorn Princess, though she doesn't seem to enjoy being called a princess, for whatever the reason. The other I have not seen before. She - it's a she, I'm guessing - has a yellow coat, pink mane and tail, and has wings; so she is a pegasus . . . yeah, I guess I can see this one as a mare - small, femine eye lashes that I had noticed on all the other ponies that I have encountered thus far, small shoulders. She seemed to be very intimidated ans was standing very close to the door that lead out of my room. In fact, I'm convinced that if I simply went 'boo', this new pegasus would either faint, or bolt out into the hallway, screaming bloody murder. While that WOULD be a funny sight to see, I decided against it, wishing instead to make a good first impression. I smiled a bit sheepishly, if only to help calm her nerves and make her feel more comfortable, and it seem to have worked. The yellow pony smiled back, but she remained near the door.

 Can't say that I blame her though, I thought. If I were in her sho - wait a sec, she doesn't even wear shoes . . . well, If I were in her position, I would be intimidated as well, seeing a strange creature that I have never seen before.

  Twilight began to speak up, clearing her throat to get my attention, "Well, good morning Ren. How are you feeling?" She asked, tilting her head to the side, a look of concern and worry grew upon her face, as well as within her voice.

  "Good morning, Princess Twilight," I stated, being as respectful as possible. This caused her to smile and her face brightened up a bit. "Good morning to you all. I'm feeling okay, I guess . . . well, better than what I felt like yesterday." The three ponies chuckled a bit at that remark, but stopped when I asked where were the others, and how I got here. Twilight sighed, explaining that, while she and Rarity tried to carry me to the hospital with magic, the CMC were asked to find those strong enough to help carry me, and to inform the hospital staff of my arrival.

  "Rarity and I had to wait until Rainbow Dash, Applejack, AND her brother - Big Mac - showed up to help carry you here. You're not exactly light, you know."

  Yeah, thanks princess, I thought, feeling a little insulted. From behind Twilight, the yellow pegasi walked up beside her and spoke, but it was so quiet that it was barely above a whisper.

  "Um, Twilight? Why didn't your magic work on him?" Twilight glanced back at her, causing her to 'eep', and reply, "N-n-not t-that I d-don't think t-that it didn't," the yellow pony stuttered, "I'm sure that you did everything that you could." She finished, blushing sheepishly.

Twilight spoke gently, "It's okay, Fluttershy. I'm not sure why, but magic doesn't seem to affect him."

  Well, at least I now know her name, I thought. But why is she here? Before I could speak up, Starlight gave out a guess.

  "Maybe magic does affect him; it could just require more concentration?" She began to rub her chin with her hoof, as if in deep thought. Twilight may or may not have entertained the hypothesis for a moment, as she shook her head.

  "We can make hypotheses, and conduct our experiments for when he has been released."

Wait, what?

"For now," Twilight advanced forward, stopping once she had reached my bed, "I want to know exactly what happened yesterday." Then she gestered to Fluttershy, beckoning her to come closer, "And Fluttershy, here, is going to see what exactly you are, and if you're dangerous or not, while Starlight and I ask you some questions. I hope you don't mind." I meerly chuckled and stated that I am okay with it, even saying that she didn't need to ask for permission, since she is a princess after all. "Thanks for addressing me by my title, but I don't really care for it. I still prefer asking for permission." She finished with a smile; THEN she started doing this weird cheerful glee ritual, jumping up and down, while repeating, "yes, yes, yes, yes" for a bit.

Ooookaaaay, she must REALLY love studying more than being a princess.





"So, Fluttershy, what do you think?" Twilight asked, as she helped the nurses check my vitals, as well as ask her own questions.  Fluttershy was studying me, as if I were some kind of new species of animal.  In fact, that was the only reason why she was here; I guess that she is some kind of an expert on all matters of animals and creatures. It had taken a lot of courage for her to approach me, and a lot more pleading from her friends, in order to convince her to help. The timid pegasi had attempted to study me from a far - she just would not approach me, without any kind of assistance.

"I guess smiling didn't work," I thought.

Eventually, Fluttershy worked past her fears - or at least to a point where she could perform her task - and spoke timidly, "Oh, um. . .I-I'm not r-really sure, Twilight. I've never seen anything like him before."

The memories of the last week and a half flashed through my mind. The nurses were busy trying their best to make me as comfortable as possible, while performing their duties. Twilight, Starlight, and Fluttershy asked me a few questions, until a nurse pony with a red cross on her flanks - I think her name was Redheart - said that it was time for me to get some rest. Twilight wanted to know everything that occured yesterday, so I regailed her with all the details. How I chased a group of mages through a portal, why I had left the club house, everything. The more I talked, the bigger her eyes would get. Hm, must be because I'm from a whole new world, I thought. Though she did ask various questions about the rune spell, which, unfortunately, I was unable to answer. The doctors and nurses weren't able to find anything wrong with me, and I doubt that they ever will. While it is true that all Bretons have magic resistance, any spell cast upon me would still affect me. However, I never mentioned that to her; I have a feeling that, in a world of magic, she and the others will find out sooner or later. The strangest thing that I have experienced since coming here, however, was not the fact that these equines could talk, fly, or use magic; but rather the food that the hospital staff offered me.

Whenever the ponies would bring me food, I fully expected them to bring me a salad, or something that a creature of their world would eat, because I believed that their world was full of nothing but herbivores. But that wasn't always the case; according to Starlight, the Ponyville hospital - on the very rare occasions that they pass through - also tends to any Griffons that are in need of intensive care.  Which would explain why the hospital has SOME fish, but they were running low. Luckily for me, Nurse Redheart said that I would more than likely be staying for at least three more days, or another week at most. And so far, they seem to be okay with me eating meat; but who knows how well the rest of the town will react.

"I'll just deal with it when it comes," I told myself.

Speaking of Starlight, she has been stopping by every day, paying me a visit and being very kind to me. And while she has been asking me a few questions, so far, not one of them were about my sudden arrival, or of the mages; they were, instead, about where I was from. We would spend practically all visiting hours discussing various topics of Skyrim, and sometimes of Tamriel and the many provences that made up its landmass. The various cultures of all races, some important dates of history, the musics and foods; we talked about nearly everything, though she was particularly fond of the story of the Dragonborn, saying that this hero must be very brave to face so many dragons.

Heh, you have no idea.

Night time was what I dreaded the most; ever since my nightmare, I was worried that I would be having even more of them. Yet I found it to be much easier to sleep than before. I haven't been plagued with any nightmares since my first night in this place, which is good. Don't need to alarm the staff again, but still. . .I worry that it may happen at any time. . .


Dawn of the next day


I woke up to an all too familiar scene: Nurse Redheart taking my blood pressure and dropping down her notes, which was becoming very jaded, if I'm being perfectly honest. Starlight was here, as well. Her company is always pleasent, and she is the closest thing I have to a friend here. Starlight would always sit next to me, and would have a particularly lovely smile on her face when ever she would visit me. It was her smile that would brighten up my day; being stuck in one place for an extended period of time tends to drive a person insane. Not that the staff wouldn't let me get out of bed, or anything; they would allow me to walk around - though Nurse Redheart, Starlight, and sometimes Twilight, would always accompany me - and even allow me to exercise; whenever I would, however, the head doctors and nurses, plus Starlight and Twilight, would drop down even more notes about me. They all seemed impressed with my physical prowess, saying that I should consider entering a couple of competitions called the "Iron Pony", and something called the "Running of the Leaves", whatever that is. However, on this particular morning, Starlight wasn't alone; it seemed that three little fillies had accompanied her. . .

Oh no, not them again.

As it turns out, the Cutie Mark Crusaders have been wondering if I was alright or not. They even tried to come and visit me a few times, but were told that I was entertaining another visitor, and I couldn't be disturbed. The little fillies had to restrain themselves from jumping all over me, but that didn't mean that they had to restrain themselves from asking me questions. Will I ever escape the questions? SO. MANY. GOD. DAMNED. QUESTIONS.

They were mainly concerned about the rune spell that exploded around me, but they all relaxed a bit when I said that I was fine, and that the doctors could confirm this as well. 

"I say that we bust him out of here," Scootaloo replied with a mischievous grin ecthing across her face, "he has been in here WAY too long."

"Well," Nurse Redheart spoke up, "that won't be necessary. He'll be free to go today."

Upon hearing this, I was shocked - she had to be joking, right? "But nurse, I thought that I had two more days left?" Redheart chuckled a bit at my surprise.

"You recover rather quickly, and aside from a large bump on your head, there wasn't any real significant damage. However," she brought out her notes, and cleared her throat, "we couldn't determine the origins of your strange cutie marks." The look of confusion crept over the CMC and Starlight-though I could see a hint of excitement within the eyes of the three fillies. As for me, I was briefly confused, and was about to correct her, when the door to my room burst opened with a light violet aura. Storming into my hospital room, like she owned the place, was a new unicorn pony, who marched directly towards Starlight. She wore the most ridiculous outfit I have ever seen-either on a person, or a pony: some kind of a cape embroided with stars, and a hat that sort of reminded me of magicians, for whatever the reason.

"Starlight Glimmer," the unicorn said with a very serious, almost upsetting tone in her voice, but it eased up once she realized that there were children in the room. She resumed to speak, but I could still sense the anger in her voice, "The Great and Powerful Trixie cannot understand why you would want to stay in a hospital, and not help your best friend set up her stage to perform her magic show."

The Great and Powerful? I wondered. What kind of a moniker is that?

This coming from the guy who calls himself Ren the Unrelenting?

Shut up, brain.

Starlight was busy talking to this so called "Great and Powerful Trixie", while I turned my attention back to Nurse Redheart and began saying, "Anyway, I don't have any cutie marks. What I DO have are tattoos." I removed my long sleeved shirt to the point that my arms were fully exposed, and showed the nurse and the little fillies. I have four in total, all of which were in different places: the one on my right forearm showed the image of a dragon's head; it was split in two halves - one side showed it with its crisom red skin, while the other showed pure skull. Over the years, it began to fade, which was a real shame, because it was a true master piece. On my left arm, near my shoulder, was my family's coat of arms - a helmet facing sideways, above a blue shield with a white stripe going across the middle. Two regal feathers - one white and the other blue-surrounded the crest on the sides, and enscribed on the shield were two swans on the top half, and a dog on the botton half. Withing the white stripe were a pair of dark gray glooves, as well as a heart within the center. The last two were on my chest, but I never pulled my shirt off completely - and besides, those were personal. Nobody needed to know about them. 

"Do they mean anything?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"Some do," I responded. The Nurse stated that I was now free to go, and wished me luck. Today was the best day that I have thus far experienced in this strange world; finally, I get to leave the hospital, and pursue my journy. . .only I don't know where to begin. Twilight was my best lead to find those rogue adapts, but I haven't seen her in a few days. Wait; Starlight would know.

Before I could even ask her, she was already helping me get out of bed, and told me that Twilight wanted to see me as soon as I was cleared to leave. "She mentioned that the other princesses wanted to see you in a few days time, and wanted to make sure that you were ready for a council meeting with them. And she also said that the crystal shard you found could be used to pinpoint the mage's location." 

Perfect!

But I don't remember giving Twilight the shard, so I'm guessing that she either picked it up when I fell unconscious, or she grabbed it when she took my weapons. I asked Starlight how Twilight came in possession of the shard, and she confermed that Twilight grabbed it, while bringing me to the hospital. Starlight wanted to take me to the castle, but a groan coming from Trixie indicated that she wasn't amused from some reason; in fact, she looked rather annoyed. 

"Starlight," she grunted, "you promised that you would help me set up my props for tonights show, not escort this. . .thing to the castle." Then she gave Starlight the cutest puppy eye stare ever. . .why is it so cute?

The three fillies offered to help, and this made Trixie a bit more happy. Figuring that there was plenty of time on hand, I offered to help too. Starlight was a bit uneased with this, given that she wanted me to see Twilight soon, "Don't worry Starlight, there will be plenty of time to see her after we're done helping." I declared. The CMC nodded in agreement, saying that with all of us helping, we might have enough time to stop by a place called "Sugarcube Corner" for something sweet. The grin on Trixie's face grew unusually large, and she agreed to let us see, what she declared, a snead peek of the greatest show we have ever seen.





"That didn't take very long," Trixie said with amusement in her voice. 30 minutes was all that it took to set up her stage, which wasn't all that big. She apparently lives in a small caravan that turns into her stage.  She sort of reminds me of a certain traveling minstrel that I had met a few times, while traveling the roads of Skyrim. . .I can't exactly remember his name though.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie is most appreciative of all the hard work you five have done for me, and I will now fulfill my end of the bargin." Trixie had promised us all a sneak peek of her tonight's showing; however, I believed that it was more of the CMC, rather than for me and Starlight. Speaking of whom, she continued to ask me questions; her favorite topic being about the Dragonborn and the power that he/she possessed. As much as I tried to focus my mind on the task at hand, as well as indulge in conversation with Starlight, and on occasions the three fillies, I couldn't keep a hundred percent of my attention on the matter at hand; mainly because of all the eyes that were glued upon the very sight of me.

When we left the hospital, there were a lot of ponies that glanced at me, eying me, perhaps wondering if I would attack them or not. Starlight had assured me that she and Twilight both declared me to be harmless, and that I can be trusted.

"But why would you say that?" I began to think back. We were just entering the market place when she had mentioned this to me, "And how do you know that I can be trusted? You barely know who or what I am."

Starlight had merely glanced up at me, giving me her usual smile that I have come to enjoy seeing, and said, "Because you need help, and so far, you haven't done anything to harm us. And something tells me that you would never hurt anypony. . .I don't know, I just trust you." While her kind hearted words helped settle my nervous mind, that still didn't help with the fact that every pony in town were looking at me. I began to wonder if they would become hostile toward me, but a part of me believed that Starlight was telling the truth. I just hope that she is right about me. . .I remember the first time that I had entered the quaint little village of Ivarstead, and the chaos that insued. A troll had followed me into the town, and everyone had taken up arms to combat it. And I'm not just talking about the guards - I mean everyone, from the farmers to the wood cutters, and even a local fisherman had taken up daggers, axes, pitchforks and torches. Images of the troll's body flashed in my mind - its body riddled with puncture marks and slashes, and a good majority of its flesh was burnt. But the most disturbing site was the severed head of the beast stuck on a pike. Its eyes - now emptied - were still opened, as if it were asking the villagers and other travelers passing by, 'why?' A part of me felt remorse for the deed. Yes, the citizens were in danger; but did the troll not deserve to live? It was a somewhat of an intelligent creature, capable of thoughts and feelings, like you and I. Don't get me wrong, my first priority is to protect the citizins of the Empire, but still. . .

Trixie had her stage set up in the park, near the fountain, where I had collapsed. Images of my nightmare crept into my mind; why did I have a nightmare of a vampire? I haven't had such nightmares since-

"Hey Ren," Applebloom called out to me, breaking me out of my transe. " The show is about to start." What was suppose to have been a sneak peek meant just for us, had turned into a public show, as several ponies began to show up. Trixie entered from behind the curtains, and a flash of lights, and fireworks fired all around her. Don't know why she would perform during the night, its only going to get colder. And while it wasn't particularly cold out in the midmorning sunlight, it wasn't warm either, the gray clouds in the sky made sure of that.

I could feel every set of eyes looking at me, rather than Trixie, which made me feel even more on edge; which only worsened, because of a mint green colored unicorn that had begun to approach me. Her eyes were on me, but not on my face, no. A quick glance from the corner of my eye indicated that she was looking at. . .my hands? Her own eyes - amber in color - had widened, and she developed a very very VERY large, albiet creepy, looking smile, as she continue to advance towards me. . .a minute later, and she was sitting next to me. I tried to ignore her, and focus more on the show, but to no avail. I started to think that maybe I should have gone to see Twilight instead.

"Prepare to be amazed, ponyvillians," Trixie practically screamed as loud as possible, and thus gained the attention of every pony that showed up - including the strange unicorn that was about to place a hoof on my hand, "for the Great and Powerful AND Generous Trixie shall perform the most spectacular performance that you have or will ever see again!" The ponies erupted into cheers in excitement, as more of her magic and fireworks encaptivated the crowd. Then she started to scan the audiance, like she was looking for something, or rather someone. Finally, her violet eyes stopped scanning, and she was casting her gaze on me.

"Trixie requires an able assistant, and she has chosen the strange minotaur creature that is amongst us." In an instant, every set of eyes were upon me, once more. And as the ponies around me began to murmer, I stood up from my seated posistion, and heard a few say, "Is that really a minotaur?" Yeah, of all the things that I have been called, a minotaur was the least expecting thing. I started to move forward, when Trixie yelled, "The Great and Powerful Trixie," why does she feel the need to announce herself as such? And why does she need to roll her r's like that? "will now attempt to change your appearance." I was not expecting this.

"Wait, what?" I spoke in shock. Taking a step back, I was ready to bolt. "Why would you do that?"

"You are aware that you lack horns and hooves, right?"

"BECAUSE I'M NOT A MINOTA-" I shouted, but before I could even finish explaining, she was in the process of charging up her horn. Now I was really worried. Looking around me, I saw that I was surrounded on all sides, and I couldn't hope to dodge out of the way; if I jump to the sides, or lean back, I would more than likely crush a pony. Jumping forward would only put me in direct contact with her magic, and, again, I would crush a pony. I made one last attempt to plead with her, hoping I could convince her to stop, "Trixie, please stop this! This is a terrible i-" she had already fired her magic at me. With no way of escaping it, I had no choice but to allow it to hit me. "dea!" Nothing happened. The beam DID, indeed, hit me, but rather than feel it make full contact, I felt a surge of energy flow through me. I quickly checked myself for any sudden changes or oddities, and when none could be found - thank the Divines - I glanced towards Trixie, who had a shocked expression on her face. The poinies stared at me in awe, and puzzlement, fully expecting Trixie's spell to work. A few were murmuring something about maybe her magic wasn't strong enough, or maybe that I was immune to magic. Those that wondered the latter questioned how would they be able to defend themselves from me if magic wouldn't affect me, and if perhaps if all four princesses combined could stop me. My fears were coming true.

"Um," Trixie spoke up, after regaining her composer, "perhaps I simply need more concentration." She chuckled to mask her nervousness, and - once again - charged up her horn. Not wanting to take on the off chance that her magic could actually change my appearance (although the thought of having horns would be kind of badass), I steeled myself ready, and channeled the power within my blood. I was now confident enough that her magic wouldn't affect me - that I was now completely safe from all forms of magic.

Once more, Trixie propelled her magic towards me, and just as before, I was unaffected.  The same surge of energy that I had felt before flowed through my body - and before you ask, no, it's not adrenaline.  Soon after her second attempt had failed, Trixie started to panic, and tried again for a third time.  Before she could, however, someone from the crowd had shouted, "Look, it's glowing!"  That one sounded very much like a male.  Didn't matter though, because he was right.  Small, bluish runes became visible through my clothings, but were more visible on my exposed skin.  The runes glowed very dimly, and covered almost every inch of my body.  Trixie had fired her magic at me once more, and I remained motionless, as I stood there, and allowed her magic to make contact.  A smirk began to stretch across my face, when Trixie made her third attempt to alternate me.  Her magic was beginning to fail her, for this time the energy surge wasn't nearly as potent as the first two.  Still, it did make the runes on my body glow to a more brilliant blue.  Trixie was sweating, and panting for a breath of air.  With her energy and magic reserves spent, she collasped on her stage, a lifeless wreck.  

"How were you able to do that?"  Starlight asked, completely flabbergasted.  She frantically glanced between me and her best friend, then went up on stage to help the completely worn out Trixie back up on her hooves, and shot me a puzzlement look.  

I merely chuckled, and spoke very proudly, "Sorry Trixie, but your magic won't affect me."  All around me, the ponies gasped in unison, and backed away from me, albeit slowly.  From behind me, I heard the sound of trotting hooves approaching me, but paid little attention to it, and instead, worked my way towards the stage.  Once there, I locked eyes with Trixie, who was now stricken with fear, unsure of what to make of me.  She whimppered at me, asking me what I am.  "I'm the guy who wants to thank you."  She raised her eyebrow in confusion.

"What are you thanking me for?  I didn't do anything, except prove that I'm not Great or Powerful."  Trixie dropped her head in shame, and I swore that I saw tears begin to fill her eyes. . .Ah, crap.

"You're wrong, Trixie - You're still Great and Powerful."  She lifted her head back up, and locked eyes with me, once more.  "I'm thanking you for the boost of my own reserves.  I haven't felt this good in -" The trotting hooves had stopped, and from behind me I heard someone speak with a voice that nearly resembled that of a nobleborn.

"Is this the one you spoke of, Twilight?" It was an unfamiliar voice of a mare.  Turning around - to the point that I stood side ways, and had my head turn towards their direction - I beheld three more mares.  Of the three, only one I recognized:  Twilight Sparkle.   Huh, I haven't seen her in a few days. . .Why is she giving me that look for?   Twilight's expression wasn't a pleasant one, but rather an upsetting one, and it made me realize that by coming to this show, I had made my first mistake in my brief time here.  The other two looked more defensive than Twilight did.  One was a tan furred pegasus, who's mane and tail were perhaps five different shades of black and gray.  But what really stood out was her outfit.  Up until now, I have only seen the doctors from my time at the hospital wear clothings, and even then, they only wore white collard shirts.  This pegasus wore a forest green collard shirt, and sported some form of a hat that would be ideal for places like Elsyer or Hammerfall; an adventurers hat, I call it.  She also had a compass on her flanks.  Her magenta eyes travelled up and down, indicating that she was either sizing me up for a fight, or perhaps wondering what exactly I am.

Really hoping its the latter, I thought.

The other was another Alicorn, much like Twilight, but taller - much taller than all of these other ponies.  She was pure white, like Rarity, and wore golden regalia.  Her multi-neon colored mane and tail seem as if they were made of magic, and sparkled as well.  I noticed that she had a symbol of the sun on her flanks, and from the discription that Starlight gave me a few days ago, I knew who this was.  Standing in front of me was Celestia, Princess of the sun, bringer of the day, and co-ruler of Equestria.  She was giving me a stern look, as we locked eyes.

"Yeah, this is him," Twilight announced, taking a few steps forward.  "What happened?"  As she scanned me from top to bottom, I realized that she was examining me with great interest, and not upset. . .at least I hope that I was right.  Twilight suggested that we head back to the castle to begin the tests.  as we walked away from the park, the blue runes began to fade away.  



I was confined to a chair, wearing some kind of contraption on my head that had several wires that were connected to a vast number of machines.  These weren't anything like what the Dwemer had ever constructed, no.  These devices seemed to be completely alien, and felt so familiar somehow. . .Twilight had scolded Starlight for maybe two minutes, until I had said that it was my idea to head to the park to help set up the stage.  Once Trixie confirmed this to be true - that is, after having several glasses of water - Twilight had eased up on her student, and turned her attention on me.  I was moved to the chamber room, where I'm told that the members of the Council of Friendship gather around to see who will be going on a mission to solve a friendship problem. . .even just saying that sounds asinine.  Twilight was the one who hooked me up to her machines, saying that it would help her understand what was going on, as well as check my vitals; might as well as stayed in the hospital if we're doing that.  Princess Celestia stayed near Trixie and the Cutie Mark Crusaders; I'm guessing to protect them.  Her expression was kind of difficult to read - a mixture of worry for her subjects, and also hope; not really sure why she would be hopeful for.  Maybe I was reading it all wrong. 

All the while this was going on, I had to endure a staredown with a pegasus - the one that looked like an adventurer - named Daring Do.  Now here was someone that I could relate to in this alien world - which is strange, I know.  I could tell a lot about a person, by gazing into their eyes, and I can tell that she has seen a lot of shit go wrong; those eyes. . .those were the eyes of a hardened soul.

Starlight was checking the machines, running back and forth from each one, and would occasionally check up on me, and asked if I needed anything.  I never took my eyes off of Daring Do - at this point, it was pretty much a competition between us, and if I had looked away, she would win.  Daring and I had spoken very little to each other since our arrival at Twilight's castle.  She seems a bit uptight.

"Okay," Twilight's scholary voice broke the silence, "the readings indicate that you're perfectly healthy.  But it doesn't explain why Trixie's magic was having zero effects on you - which has lead me to conclude that magic, no matter how many times its been applied on you OR however powerful a spell has been amplified, will not affect you."

"Or maybe there is a different reason why," I retorted with an answer of my own, "The reason why her magic wouldn't affect me is because I channelled the power of my blood - an ability called Dragonskin.  It allows a Breton a chance - roughly a 50% chance - to absorb all hostile magic.  That is what I did - absorbed her magic, to replenish my own magical reserves."  The silence that followed was nearly maddening, until Applebloom asked if I could use magic, to which I answered - not with words, but with proof.  Asking for permission first I removed the head piece, and rose up from the chair.  I remove the head piece, and rose up from the chair. I positioned my hands to my left hip, as if I still had my sword and was about to unsheathe that, and concentrated. I remembered my time spent at the College of Winterhold; how my instructors would have me demonstrated various spells from all the schools of magic that I chose to dedicate myself to. But there was something that I could do - something that my fellow conjurer's haven't tried before.  By simply thinking of an image, and focusing on my essence - my magicka - I can alternate the form of any summon item, and overtime, I have learned how to summon items other than weapons.  The spell that I was focusing on was a rather basic one - a bound sword spell; and even though the duration of my dragonskin was over, the only issue when when it came to summoning spells, however, was the fact that I could still absorb the spell. Though the chances of that were small - leaving me feeling the utmost confident that nothing would interfere with the summoning arts. 

"Does this answer your question?"  I asked. The bound sword began to take shape, as I thought of an image:  my custom-made Stalhrim sword, which I fashioned to resemble an ancient Akaviri blade - more commonly known as a katana. Alternating the physical appearance of any Summoned item, however, was not all that I have learned. Through constant practice of the 'dark arts' of conjuration, I developed an ethereal tether that would allow me to wield any conjured item with my other hand, but I frequently combined the tether with my bound sword, in the case that I wish to 'sheathe' the blade, without the spelling it and using more of my magic reserves to summon another.  And creating the tether was no more taxing then it was to summon the sword.

The invocations were complete, as the tether enveloped my left hand in a swirl of purple energy, and the blade manifested from the palm of my right hand. And while the physical appearance had been altered, the weapom still retained evidence of its otherworldly Daedric Origins, and - much like every other item summon through magic - it was weightless.  The only true difference between the original and this altered version is thus: because of its single edge design, I could unsheathe the blade and strike at once - hence why I use the tether with it - and I could swing it much faster than the bulkier or blade of the original spell. And in a matter of life and death, the faster one can strike, the better.

I demonstrated my swordsmanship skills, twirling then spinning the Ethereal blade around me; then, sheathing my weapon - the edge of the sword facing up, rather than down, for the quickdraw effect - I glanced around the room, expecting to find the ponies's facial expression to be solemn and bland.  Instead, all eight pairs of eyes were widened, as they stood in place - stunned and speechless.  The three fillies, as well as Trixie, huddled together and stared apprehensively at me. And as I advanced forward - taking one step towards them - Daring Do rushed from her seated position into the air, and swooped down in front of me, haltering my progress.

How is she that fast?

Her face contorted with rage - no-doubt intended for me; was it because I attempted to approach the others? Or was it because of my magic usage? Regardless, I retreated back to the chair I had previously occupied, and drew my sword wants more. Daring narrowed her eyes at my movement, and from the corner of my own eyes, I could see both Twilight and Celestia charging up their horns, "You have nothing to worry about," I attempted to soothe their anger and fear of me, "the only way to dispel my bound sword, is to first dismiss the tether." Once both the tether and the blade were dismissed, I, once again, glanced around the room to find their expressions had eased up. . . All except for Daring Do.

Daring crossed her. . . forehooves, I guess, and as polite as possible, asked, "Explain how you can use magic!" Yes, as polite as possible. And so I told them how I started my training in Magic from an old University instructor who saw potential in me. He continue to Mentor me in Alteration and Restoration Magics, and sent me to learn more of magic from his old colleagues; and from there, I learned to other forms of magics:  Destruction and Conjuration - the latter of which I found to be much easier to master. Based on the expressions of the CMC, and the ever so increasing squee coming from Twilight AND starlight both, they wanted me to resume my tail, but the quick glance out from the nearby window revealed an encroaching gray sky; squinting my eyes, I could see tiny droplets of water, clinging to the surface.

"It would appear that I must return to Canterlot," Princess Celestia side, "Twilight, please keep me informed about any new developments on our new guest." Twilight agreed, and asked if the other princesses should be informed as well, or at the very least be notified of my presents here. "I shall notify them myself, you have enough on your hooves. But before I leave, may I have a word with you, Ren?"

"Of course", I nodded in agreement, and followed her into the silent hallway. The princess turned, and offered me a warm smile, "Is there something wrong, your highness?" I asked, nervously. 

"No", she spoke in a soft graceful voice, "I merely wished to offer you luck on your quest. But," her voice, and face were filled with solemn dismissal, "I must warn you, do not harm my subjects. Treat them well, and I will do the same for you."

I stood rooted to the floor of Twilight's crystaline castle, appalled by her sudden change of tone. She could sense this, I suppose, because she reached out with a hoof to gently caress my cheek, to help calm my nerves. It felt so smooth, so soft. "I promise, this task is mine and mine alone. Nobody else will get involved." She nodded, but said that I shouldn't be afraid to ask for help in this endeavor. And in a flash of light, she was gone. I caught her smiling at me, one last time, as she teleported back to wherever she came from, Canterlot I'm guessing.


Later that night 


It was decided that I was to remain in the castle, at least until accommodations for a temporary residential stay could be made for someone my size. Twilight said that it should be done in a couple of months, even though I declined such a generous offer; but she insisted on me having a home, while I stay here, saying something about it being my base of operations in my search for those rogue adapts. We had dinner, maybe an hour ago, which was served by Twilight's assistant named Spike, who turned out to be a dragon. It seems that this world was full of strange and exotic creatures. Daring Do stated that she was going to be staying at the local hotel, and would be back in the morning to continue in 'researching the alien' as she put it. The key word in her statement being 'was', because as soon as she opened the door, the fierce wind blowing in a heavy coat of snow quickly changed her mind - no soul would even dare take a step out and such terrible weather like this. 

And I thought Skyrim had bad weather, I chuckled at my own thoughts. The princess offered us all rooms for the night, or for as long as we needed to remain, saying that she had plenty of rooms to accommodate a large portion of Ponyville. After Starlight have shown us our rooms, I decided to stay up for a while longer, and read a book to pass the time. Starlight insisted that I read up on Equestria's history; THEN Scootaloo - having heard starlight's suggestion on reading material - handed, or rather 'hooved' me a book entitled 'Daring Do, and the Quest for the Sapphire Stone'. Apparently, someone named A.K. Yearling decided to contact the adventuring Pony, and asked to write about her exploits. Scootaloo said that an 'awesome' Pegasus name Rainbow Dash reads these books on a regular basis, and recommends that I give it a try. She also suggested that I meet Rainbow, some day.

Daring was heading to her room, when she noticed the book I was holding, and advanced towards me, "Y-you're not really going to read that, are you?" She rubbed her left leg with her right hoof, and begin to blush sheepishly. 

Is she. . .embarrassed by these books? Why would she be embarrassed for? These books are all about her!

"I don't see why not," I declared, grinning happily at her. "Who knows? Maybe one day we can swap stories of our past adventures over a few flagons of mead." This, somehow, caused the blush to spread across the entirety of her face; also, for some reason, her wings extended out, like she was about to fly. Yet she didn't take off she just stood there, her eyes locked with mine. "Ah, Daring," I called out to her, my smile faded away a few seconds ago. "Are you-" she waved a hoof, dismissively at me.

"Y-yeah, I'm just. . .ah," she seemed to struggle with her own words, and moved her eyes from side to side. "Well, would you look at the time? It's time for bed." She chuckled, rather nervously, then ran towards her room and slammed the door shut. 

"Ooookaaaay, that wasn't weird at all," I said sarcastically, causing Starlight to chuckle a bit. She wished me goodnight and trout it off to her own room. Trixie would be sharing a room with her, while the CMC would be sleeping in the room that I was given. This left poor Daring all alone for the night.  Hope this night will be a calm one.




 I had successfully snuck aboard the Marie Elena, a galleon based ship, crewed by 'sailors'. Heh, yeah right. These were pirates, and everyone knew it too. I could have easily killed every single fucking one of the bastards, but then my target would become alerted to my presence, and most likely have had his crew search the ship from top to bottom, searching for me, or probably have escaped. Neither of which were the best case scenarios for me. And besides, Vicente Valtieri had stated that this contract was for the captain only. The others didn't matter - only Captain Gaston Tussaud. Since this was my first contract, I could have been eliminated Gaston in anyway I damn well please, so long as the result was the same - the captain would have met with a watery grave. I chose the more stealthy approach, staying out of sight, and using the shadows for coverage. Sneaking aboard the ship was easy - I smuggled myself aboard by climbing into an empty cargo box - but getting to Captain Tussaud would prove to be a challenge. His crew made my advancement a bit difficult. But after what felt like an hour of staying within the shadows, and sneaking passed the various number of armed crewmates, I had arrived at the Captain's cabin, undoubtedly where  in lays my first 'official' target. 

The door was locked, and I could hear the sounds of approaching footsteps from the sailors on the top deck, so I had to react fast. I pulled a lock pick from one of the pouches on my utility belt, and as quick as I could, began to pick the tumblers of the lock. Luck must have been on my side, because the sailors were talking about heading to the Bloated Float for drinks, and proceeded towards the establishment, leaving the ship 'mostly' unguarded. This gave me plenty of time to pick the lock, and finish what I came here for. After spending a few seconds on the lock, I heard the ever so sweetful sound of the last tumbler being pushed into place, allowing me to open the door.

There was no place for Gaston to hide - he was as good as dead. From across the Captain's Quarters, I saw the doorway that led out to the balcony at the front of the ship; that was my way out, after Gaston laid dead at my feet. As I silently moved through the Captain's Quarters, I saw him - sleeping the day away. But I did not draw my blade, no. Instead, I bore my fangs into his neck, tearing out his throat in an animalistic feeding frenzy! He never even had the chance to struggle. . . But before I could drain enough of his precious lifeblood to sate my appetite, he let out a cry - screaming in agonizing pain, causing me to relinquish my hold on him. He still drew breath, so I had no choice but to unsheathe my dagger and punctured his heart, with one swift thrust. And as he fell to the floor, I heard loud banging on the door to the deck, and made my escape through the balcony. 




"AH!" I awoke from slumber, having suffered another nightmare - the first in a while, since my release from the hospital. And, like the hospital, ponies rest towards my bed to check up on me; except this time it was the Cutie Mark Crusaders and Starlight that came to my Aid. A haste of fear surrounded them all, much like how they were surrounding me.

"Ren, are you alright?!" Starlight asked, "The girls said that you were thrashing around in bed, and came and got me!"

Sweat clung to me - all over me! As I panted, Sweetie Belle pointed out that I was shaking. "I had a nightmare." A chill ran down my spine, as I remained motionless in bed; then I felt a warm embrace, as Starlight hug me. She threw her hooves around my chest, whispering that everything would be all right. She offered to stay with me for the night, in hopes that it would make me feel better. I declined at first, but she insisted on it. She crawled underneath the covers, and positions herself next to me. 

"Everything will be alright, Ren." She said once more, and wished me good night again. I'm not sure what came over me, but as she laid next to me - on her side - I wrapped my arms around her barrel, and held her close to me.

"Thank you," I whispered softly. I didn't know for certain if she heard me at first, but as soon as I felt her hoof on my hand - moving it to position it over her chest - and felt the beating of her heart, I knew that she had heard me. I smiled contently, as I fell into slumber.
> Chapter 3: Ren's new home part 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The market place bustled with activity, on this rather warm midmorning, from fillies and colts playing in the streets, to ponies running the various stalls.  And while the salesponies had the most tempting of offers that they have ever made, Starlight had something else in mind.  It's been about 6 months since the strange bipedal alien - known as Ren - had appeared in Equestria, and in that time she has been assisting the hoomen. . . human?  Well, however it is properly pernounced, Starlight has been helping him to adjust to life in Ponyville.  For the most part, he seem to be doing very well; even has a home of his own - a gift from Twilight.  

Trotting past the stalls and the salesponies, Starlight proceeded towards her destination, with the intent of spending time with Ren.  While the two of them have been able to spend some time together, it was mostly when he was at the castle; the key word being 'was', because he had moved into his new home last month.  True, Princess Twilight would invite Ren over to the castle from time to time, but it would only be for when she wish to further study him and his magic, or to ask for updates on his quest.  Starlight didn't want Ren to have to think about any of that.  He has to relax every now and then - the latest trip to the hospital proves that he has been working and worrying far too much.  Today is going to be perfect, Starlight thought, going over her mental list of goals she wanted to achieve, all of which involve getting Ren to relax, like the doctor ordered.

She quickly went over her mental list of goals for today, and at the top of the list was to see how he was fairing.  Ever since his first night at the castle, she has been worried about him, and she wondered if Ren was still suffering from any more nightmares as of late.  The memories of that night were still fresh in her mind.  Sweetie Belle woke her up, and was in a panic - saying that Ren was thrashing around and would not wake up.  Starlight rushed towards Ren's bed side with the little filly, and found him laying in bed, tossing and turning.  The Cutie Mark Crusaders were right - all attempts to wake him have failed, and he was murmuring something incoherately in his sleep. When he finally woke up, screaming, he said that he had a nightmare.

What sort of a nightmare would cause that kind of termoil?  Starlight continued to walk past the stands in the market place, frowning her brows, as she tried to establish an answer.  When she failed, she let out a sigh in defeat, wishing that he had opened up more to her about what he had seen in his nightmare.  Maybe, her mind began to tell her, that he didn't want any help?  But if that were the case, then why didn't he just say something?  Starlight groaned out of frustration, then, stopping in place, performed Twilight's breathing technique - raising a hoof to her chest while taking in a deep breath of air, and exhaled and extended her forehoof outward simultaneously.  It was a technique that has helped Twilight to become more calm and focused in just about any sort of situation, and for the most part it had worked for Starlight in calming down her nerves.  Yet she still felt like her stomach had inadvertently twisted into knots.  She still felt very nervous talking to him, when their conversations were not about magic theroies, or of his home world - Skyrim.  

Whenever she would try to converge in other topics - such as his personal life - she tended to choke on her own words, or would stutter to the point where her words were no longer understandable.  OR she would be too nervous to even ask him.  If there is one thing that the reformed villain had in common with Princess Twilight, it is that the two of them are always nervous wrecks when it came to matters that seem so trivial in the eyes of others.  Yet, to Starlight, stealing the cutie marks of an entire villiage - even the ones from a Princess and the other 5 element bearers, battling with Twilight as they both traveled back across time, to prevent the element bearers from becoming friends, and nearly ending all of existence in Equestria as we know it seem to be far easier accomplishments, than talking to a strange, bipedal creature, gifted with magic about his personal life!  

The few times she had finally found something out about him were during his conversations with the rest of her friends.  Why couldn't she just ask him?  It infuriated her to no end that she could not talk to him, without stuttering, like she use to be able to.

Could it have been . . . that night when he held her close to him? It certainly would explain a lot, like how her mind would occasionally drift back to that night.  She had originally intended to comfort Ren, and she did just that.  True, there were probably better ways that she could have done so, other than sharing the same bed as him, and she honestly didn't know what came over her when she offered the idea.  As she continued to breathe slowly, she thought back to what had happened; he wrapped his arms around her barrel, and held her, whispering, "thank you", softly in her ear . . . and she liked it!  Oh sweet Celestia, did she ever so enjoy it.  She continued to think back, and remembered that she had moved his hand directly over her heart.  Whether it was intentional or not, she didn't know, but Luna dammit it felt wonderful.  The more that the unicorn thought about Ren, and the way that he held her, the more calm she began to feel; calm, safe, and warm . . . small blushes had begun to spread across her face.  She continued towards Ren's new home, eagered to see him.




Within a few minutes, Starlight had arrived at her destination; a rather large building that housed Ponyville's residental human.  It had taken the contractors roughly 4 months to complete its construction, when it normally took them 1-2 months, but maybe it was because of his size. Building a homestead for somepo - someone who is as tall as Princess Celestia is not so easy.  However, it could very well be because of the nature of the house design; because of his unusual size, the contractor ponies realized off hoof that no ordinary house would do - he would be far too uncomfortable, from such a small space.  So they were forced to go with something more roomy; though it wasn't a rare sight in Ponyville, a house of this magitude was intended for those that were wanting to start a herd, but it was the only kind of house that he could be comfortable in.  

Ren's new home was set in a very nice spot in Ponyville - just outside of town, near the edge of the Everfree forest, and Ponyville park, where he was found.  It granted Ren the space that he needed, while allowing him to be close to town, should he ever need anything.  All around the luxurious looking homestead were makeshift gardens, containing a wide variety of flowers, from roses to lillies of all shades of colors, tulips and so much more.

Heh, I guess he does have a soft spot after all, Starlight smirked, once believing that the human wasn't the type to be so interested in flowers. She giggled at the thought of him smelling each of these beautiful flowers, like any mare would. Come on, Starlight. You're here for a reason. 

Shaking her head, Starlight went over her mental list one more time. The first goal was the check up on Ren, and see how he was doing. The next goal was to get him to think about things other than his quest. In the last few months, his task on locating those 'mages' has proven fruitless. Even Twilight was having a hard time helping him; the shard that he found was indeed the best chance to find the mages, but unfortunately it wasn't enough. Twilight would need to reforge the crystal, or have a new one to work with. And this only made his anxiety even worse the longer has non-existing luck continued. 

The last two objectives on her list were to invite Ren to a little get-together at Rarity's boutique, and when that was over, her last goal was to spend some time with him. . . Well, okay, that last one isn't completely accurate. What she really intended to do was to work past her own fear, and get to know the real Renegade, who he truly is, and all that makes him special. . .

Andmaybealsoaskhimtoholdmeagain, Starlight thought, with a similar speed to that of Pinkie Pie. Her face became warm and turned a shade of red the instant she thought about it. . . Maybe, she hoped, it could happen. . .

Clearing her throat, Starlight raised her hoof to the door and knocked three times. Holding her breath for just a few seconds, she waited patiently. While she waited, she observed the markings upon the door, and saw that in the center of the door, there was an oddly-shaped dragon. What was truly odd about it, was that it was in the shape of a diamond. Ren had said that it was the insignia of the Imperial Legion, as well as the mark of a dragon God named Akatosh. Nopony has ever heard of a dragon God. There have been Dragon Lords - the most recent one being Princess Ember, but that was about it. 

Suddenly she heard the audible sound of footsteps approaching the door, as well as the shifting of what Starlight can only guess to be a large amount of papers and books being moved. Ren has been studying a wide variety of books from the Castle Library, all about the terrains of Equestria, hoping to discover any and all hidden caves, or Subterranean Labyrinths - anything that he believes would hold some form of secret power; it was his guess that if the mages would be anywhere, it would be at a place that would give them access to such power. The princesses agreed with him, when the four of them held a counsil with the human. Thank Celestia that they seem to like him, Starlight sighed with relief. 

After the council meeting, Twilight agreed to help him find those mages, and to find a way to send them all back to Skyrim, and for reasons that were beyond her, Starlight felt saddened. But that didn't mean that she couldn't figure out a way to open a portal to and from Skyrim! She wasn't about to give up on seeing her new friend, if she could help it. But for now, it was enough that he was here.

The door slowly opened, revealing the large bipedal creature. Once Ren saw that it was Starlight at the door, he opened it up the rest of the way and smiled, greeting her, "Oh, hi Star!" He decided to shorten her name some time ago; not that she minded. Starlight took one glance, and saw the large bags underneath Ren's hazel colored eyes - evidence that he was either up all night going over his charts and maps, again. OR worse. . .that he was still suffering from more of these nightmares. But, in order to maintain civility, and to be polite, Starlight chose to forgo asking him about his activities from the past few nights.

"Hi Ren. Rarity is having a get-together at her boutique, and I -" she stopped mid-sentence, and looked passed him. His home was a mess! Books were either piled and stacks, or they littered the floor with all sorts of charts. On a wall above the coffee table that Applejack had made for him, was a map of Equestria, and it seemed to be covered in numerous amounts of 'X's. Apparently, he has been keeping track of all the caves that he had found, and explored in the surrounding areas.

"Sorry about the mess," Ren's tiresome voice entered Starlight's ears - he must have noticed her gawking into his home. Looking back up at him, she could see that he was a bit upset - not in an angry way, but rather of a more dejected way.

Oh no, She thought.  This isn't going well; say something, say something. . . She panicked, darting her eyes from side to side, in an attempt to think of a reply.  But before she could, Ren stepped off to the side, and gestered for her to enter his humble abode, all the while having a warm smile on his face.  Whenever he would smile, it would make her blush, and smile back at him.  Every time that he would smile at her, she felt warm, because it felt as if he was smiling just for her.  

Stepping inside, a strange smell entered her nostrils; what was that smell?  It sort of reminded the unicorn of a certain adventurous pegasus - of Daring Do; her scent was difficult to describe when the two first met - which left Starlight a bit flabbergasted.  She had heard of Daring Do from an overly enthusiastic Rainbow Dash, and even read the books; but to actually meet her in real life was astonishing.  Starlight had some trouble pinpointing the nature of her scent, as the adventuring mare traveled far and wide, exploring numerous ruins, all for the sake of recovering lost artifacts, and saving Equestria in the process; yet there was a hint of something else underneath the smell of dust and cobwebs. It smelled like rain.  All pegasi - even the timid Fluttershy - had some small hint of rain, or rain clouds mixed with their natural scent, and it was that small trace of rain that helped her to tell the difference between Daring, and Ren.  The human shared a near identical scent to that of the adventuring pony; but with him, there was something that made him defferent.  She couldn't tell what it was, but it made him smell. . . exotic.  But why would Daring's scent be all over Ren's home?  True, the two of them shared a lot in common, but that doesn't explain why the stench of airid, dry desserts, tropical jungle, abandoned ruins, and rain clouds would be inveloping the human's home.  

Deciding to push this to the side, for now, Starlight turned to her friend, "D-do you need any help with this?"  She gestered with her hoof around the mess, knowing that he would understand.  To her lack of surprise, Ren shook his head.  He never really accepted help, except for when he was out exploring the forest, while out on his quest, which was a very frustrating trait that he had in common with both AJ and Daring.

Holding up both of his hands, he used his magic to levitate the charts, as well as the books, into neat stacks on the coffee table and in the bookshelves; thus cleaning up his home. However, this did leave him a little drained. He spoke up, panting. "Simple. . . Telekinesis spell. . .helps with. . .all house cleaning chores." He smiled, weakly. While thoroughly impressed, Starlight face-hooved. 

"A simple spell that still left you exhausted." She looked off to the side of the fireplace, and saw that the 'mannequin' still held his armor and crown. "Seriously, why don't you wear your armor?" 

That caused Ren to raise his eyebrow in response, making Starlight regret her question. She knew the reason why he won't do it. Within the first month since his arrival, the human had demonstrated more of his magical prowess by summoning, what he had called, a 'Dremora butler'. This 'butler' was holding all the pieces of Ren's armor, which were made from enchanted ice - Stalhrim, just like his sword, which was returned to him - as well as his dagger - sometime ago. 

The last two items that the strange, yet polite, creature was holding for Ren were a book bound in leather, and was as black as the night sky; Ren kept that away from all who asked about it, and finally a brass colored crown. The crown was a beautiful craft, and held 3 large sapphire gemstones that appeared to be filled with magical energy. Ren had called it the 'Aetherium' crown, and it supposedly granted him with the powers of the last 'Guardian Stone' blessings that he had aquired during his journies; something called the 'Atronach stone'. He said that, as long as he wore the crown, he could absorb magic more easily - but it would interfere with his summoning spells, for whatever the reason.

"Star," Ren uttered her shorten name, taking a seat on his couch, "you know the answer already." 

"Yes, I know," she sighed. "You're trying to 'condition' your magic." When he had first used the term, and nopony understood his meaning, Ren explained the benefits of wearing his armor; it was heavily enchanted to reduce the cost of casting spells from the schools of magic that he was familiar with - as were a ring and a pendant that he had with him. But, much like with his physical training, he wanted to improve the condition of his magic reserves, without the aid of his enchanted gear. 

Ren waved a hand, dismissively, and cleared his throat. "Never you mind about that. Now, w-what was it that you wanted, again?"

"Oh, um. . .right." And so it began, her fears were beginning to overwhelm her; but she manage to suppress them, "Rarity, and some of the others are getting together at Carousel Boutique for some tea, and I. . .well, that is, w-we were k-kind of hoping that you would l-like to j-join us?" No matter how hard she tried, she still could not stop herself from stuttering. 

Well that could have gone better, the nervous unicorn thought. Ren sat there, eyes locked on the now timid mare, who wish that she was now invisible. But then her ears perked up at the sound of his voice.

"This isn't going to turn into one of those random surprise Pinkie Pie parties, is it?" He asked, groaning, and rubbed the space between his eyes. "Cause, I don't think that I have to remind you of all the surprise parties that I've already attended to in the last couple of months - let alone all the ones that I've been trying to avoid." Starlight chuckled at the memories. When Pinkie caught wind that there was someone new in town, she immediately rushed to the castle, and dragged the new comer by his arm to Sugarcube Corner, all just to throw him 2 parties at once. The sight of him turning around and mouthing the words, 'help me', was funny at the time. His first party was a 'welcome to Ponyville' party - which Pinkie was known for doing for everypony who was new to Ponyville. And finally, the last party was a 'welcome to Equestria' party; it was also how he had officially met the rest of the Elements of Harmony bearers, and reacquainted himself with both Fluttershy and Rarity.

"No," Starlight giggled. "She agreed to take it easy for today."

"Well, in that case," standing up, Ren gestured towards the door. "Let's get going then." As the pair made their way towards Rarity's, Starlight became very giddy with excitement, hoping that maybe she could become closer to him. . .however, she also felt like they were being watched. 



The Bell chimed as Starlight held Carousel Boutique's front door open with her magic, gesturing for her companion to enter before her. . .even though he seemed a bit uncomfortable about it. Apparently, it was custom for men - where Ren was from - to hold the door for women. Yet Starlight insisted. The Breton gave out a defeated side, and walked inside the establishment. Surprisingly enough, this was one of the rare few times that Starlight had seen Ren not resorting to his stubborn nature, which was a refreshing change. Normally, when he chose to be nearly as stubborn as Applejack, he would show a bit of anger as well, but would always apologize shortly after. Starlight smiled to herself.

"Coming~" came the singing voice of the shop owner - Rarity. Since Ren's arrival, Rarity would invite him over for a few fashion lineups, and would offer him some new clothings - like what he was currently wearing; a long-sleeved white shirt, and his repaired sweatpants. Ren has been given so many new outfits, that he and Applejack had to make several custom-made dressers, and Ren was ordered calling his 'Butler' creature just to hold on to all the clothings from the generous unicorn.

The alabaster white unicorn trotted from around the corner, and began her usual sales pitch, "Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where everything is-" but stopped when she saw that it was Starlight and Ren standing in the lobby. "Starlight, darling! Thank you for coming." Then she cast her gaze to the human - arching her neck to do so, "And I see you managed to bring Ren along. It's always good to see you, dear." Rarity stated with a very large smile, and proceeded to hug her guests. Though, Ren had to kneel down to hug her.

"Thanks for inviting us," he spoke. The trio proceeded to Rarity's kitchen, where Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Twilight Sparkle were sitting around the kitchen table, already sipping on their cups of tea. Starlight had explained that Applejack and Rainbow Dash were busy with their personal lifes to join, sadly. With a wave to the others, Rarity offered her new guests a seat at the table and some green tea. Starlight sat next to Ren, blushing sheepishly.

"So," Twilight cleared her throat, and spoke to the Breton, "How is your search? Any luck yet?" She offered him a friendly smile, and levitated her cup to her muzzle. Starlight deadpanned at her mentor; she did not want Ren to even think about his self-appointed quest. Yet, he responded after mixing in some sugar into his tea, and took a sip.

"I think that I have explored every cave in the Everfree Forest, but haven't found a trace of them." He groaned at the thought of where to search next. "It might be time that I start looking around the mountains." Starlight watched, mesmerised, as he held the teacup aloft; holding it gently with his dexterous fingers, and being careful so as to not drop it. Truthfully, it was amazing how useful his hands were, and they gave him an advantage for performing a great deal of tasks that hooves couldn't accomplish. As Starlight continue to ogle at his strange appendages, she thought of how wonderful it would feel to have those hands move across her coat, through her mane and tail; maybe it could happen?

Wait, she began to think more about her friendship with the alien. That just seems weird, he is just a friend. And why is it getting warmer in here, all of a sudden?

"Hey, Star?" Ren's voice woke her from her daydreaming, and was offering a gentle smile, "Are you feeling all right?" He kept up with his smiling. Oh dear Celestia how she adores that smile.

"O-oh um. . .y-y-yeah," damn stuttering. For the remainder of the afternoon, they chatted about the day's events prior to Ren's appearance, and the various subjects of Skyrim that he and Starlight had discussed over the first couple of months, since he came to Equestria. He told them of one of the battles that he was involved in; he was sent to ambush the rebels, who were transporting some valuable cargo - a shipment of weapons and bits, enough of both that could have shifted the balance of the Civil War.

"It was decided that the best course of action was to launch a-"

"A surprise party?" The ever so innocent voice of Pinkie Pie interrupted, and giggled. Ren didn't seem amused.

"Yeah, sure. Let's go with that. Poor bastards never saw it coming."

"Well duh. That's why it's called a 'surprise party'. Silly Renny.I " Renegade placed a hand on his face. A hand version of a face-hoof, maybe? Either way, he groaned, and proceeded to speak.

"I know. . .it's a figure of speech, Pinkie."

"How do you 'figure' a speech?" The party mare giggled, and so did the other mares around the table. In truth, Starlight couldn't resist giggling herself, and shortly after making gestures with his hands that he wanted to strangle Pinkie Pie, Ren burst into laughter. Yes, everything seem to be going very well indeed. Ren was out of his house for something that wasn't based around his self-appointed mission, or for numerous amounts of Twilight's studies on him and his magic, and he seemed to be enjoying himself.

Everything is going to be perfect, Starlight grinned with happiness. Still, there was an unnerving question that has been lingering in her mind; how does he feel about her? He has shown to be very friendly - and for that she was truly grateful for, but what if there could be more between them? Another doubtful thought crept into the forefronts of the young mare's mind: what if he doesn't like the thought of being with a pony? Ren has spent this whole time being alone, thinking of nothing but his own undertaking; oh sure, he would make it to the occasional gathering, and would always lend a helping hoo - hand whenever somepony asked for his assistance, but his social life is very lacking; safe for his morning workout routines with Rainbow Dash, and Twilight's experiments every couple of weeks. Starlight's smile - now a wistful one, for she longed to be happy with. . . hang on, why does it feel like somepony placed the hoof on her withers?

"Starlight, darling?" Rarity's majestic entered her ears, breaking her out of her worrisome dilemma. "Are you alright?" Starlight saw that the generous unicorn seemed vexed about something; but whatever could it be? Normally whenever Rarity would show concern about something, it would be over a new fashion line up, or if she needed more fabric and jewels for order that had a deadline that she needed to meet, or if a certain stallion would ever return his feelings towards her. Yet this time it feels so different, somehow.

"Y-yeah, heh. Why wouldn't I be?" Starlight hoped that by lying, she could keep up the appearance of being happy. Rarity's unamused facial expression had told her all that she needed to know - Rarity wasn't buying any of it.

"Darling, could you help me with my latest outfit? I would most appreciate it." The Fashionista fluttered her eyelashes, and dawned a captivating smile, one that Starlight has seen her use many times on poor Spike, and it would always work on him. Starlight simply nodded, and followed Rarity to her office.



"So, how long have you been thinking about him, deary?" Rarity asked, levitating over some pins from her workbench. The fashionista ask Starlight to pose in a new outfit, and already found a few flaws. Though one has to wonder, why she couldn't have used one of her mannequins instead. Starlight suspected that this was merely a ruse to allow them both to have some privacy. The question that was asked almost nearly proved her theory, but still. . .

"I don't know what you mean." Better safe than sorry.

"Oh come now, darling," the generous mare scoffed. "I'm talking abo-"

"She'stalkingaboutRenny!" The two unicorns jolted upwards, when a blur pink rust through the do- no wait. . .Starlight vaguely remembered seeing that one of the mannequins seemed to be out of place. Like it wasn't the same as the others - maybe it was pink for a brief second, and then it quickly reverted back to normal when she took a second glance at it, perhaps? She wasn't completely sure though.

"Pinkie, what are you doing here?" Starlight yelped, her mind still trying to process everything that had happened in the span of 10 seconds, and wondering if any of it was real. "And how did you know what we were talking about?"

"Well duh," Pinkie rolled her eyes, and began to bounce over to her friends. "I mean, come on Starry, it should be pretty obvious by now."

"Wha- wha-?"

"Pinkie sense." The party pony giggled, then she stopped in mid-air, and pointed an accusing hoof in Starlight's direction. "Now, do you like Renny as in like or as in like like?"

Starlight became very ill, all of a sudden. Her light violet fur took on a more pale version as she stood motionless, pondering on Pinkie's question; to be honest, Starlight was not so sure if her feelings towards the alien were genuine or not. She liked him well enough to find him interesting, and valued their friendship. Yes, she wanted to see if perhaps there could be something between them, but she didn't want to push the subject, fearing the worst that he wouldn't want to be anything other than friends. That he didn't view ponies. . .that way.

"Starlight, darling." Rarity began. "Are yo-"

"Idon'tknowalright!" Starlight burst out, speaking nearly as fast as Pinkie Pie could. The others jumped a bit, shocked from the uncomfortable looking mate's reaction, and gazed upon her. This form of behavior was not entirely like her. She had shown such behavial traits on a few occasions - such as the time she cast a spell on her friends, in order to work on several friendship lessions. . .that was a time that nopony wanted to ever relive again. Looking back at the others, Starlight could see how her vexing dilemma was affecting her inability to remain calm and have a good time. "Sorry, girls. . ." She sighed in dismay, and looked away from her friends. "I like him, but I-I'm not sure if he likes me in that sort of way. Or if he even thinks of-"

"Now now," Rarity cleared her throat, while casting a spell on Starlight's muzzle, holding her mouth closed and turned her gaze back. "My dear, you worry far too much."

"Try talking to him," Pinkie suggested, with a playful giggle. "I mean, what do you have to lose? It's not like he'll never want to be friends with you or even want anything to do wi- mmph" a hoof shoved to the pink pony's lips forced her to stop babbling on, and possibly further diminish Starlight's confidince. It didn't stop Pinkie from trying to speak, though her words were reduced to muffles.

"What Pinkie is trying to say, darling, is that maybe you should go and speak with Ren, and see where you two stand. Where's the harm in it?" Rarity released the spell, and removed her hoof from Pinkie's lips.

"What, just go out? like its that easy?" Her friends only offered a simple nod in response. "B-b-but this isn't so easy! I don't really know anything about him, and what if I-" Starlight was interrupted by a pink hoof with a scroll, labled 'Ren'. Confused, she looked back at Pinkie, who had just put away a filing cabinet back into her mane.

"Everything you need to know about him is in that scroll." Starlight held the rolled up scroll aloft, and looked between it, then Pinkie, then back to the scroll again. Could she really learn about the alien from this? She had known Pinkie Pie well enough to learn that she makes it her business to know everything there is to know about everypony she meets, so as to throw the best kind of parties for any individual, but did it seem right?

"Wouldn't it be better if I asked him about all he likes, dislikes, and hobbies - to get to know him better myself?"

"There's nothing wrong with asking for help from your friends every once in a while."

"I know, Pinkie. But that's not what I'm talking about." The unicorn gave the scroll back to Pinkie. "I want to try and ask him myself, but that's the thing. I-"

"You don't know if you can?" Starlight nodded. "Well, how will you ever learn anything about him if you don't try?" For once, the pink earth pony was making sense. . . perhaps they were right? A pink hoof gently pushed back against the scroll. "You should read up about him, then see about starting a conversation with him." Starlight glance towards Rarity, whom replied with a nod, and a friendly smile. Starlight opened the scroll. She hoped beyond hope that she could learn something new about him. In fact, she was confident that she would.



Starlight and Ren waved goodbye to their friends, and proceeded to walk to the park. After reading what was on Pinkie's scroll, Starlight learned on more than what she had originally attended - such as his method of combat/self-defence. What the hay is 'Brazilian Jiu Jitsu'? Maybe Rainbow knows? Well, either way, she now knows enough about her alien friend, but there was still the issue of talking to him without stuttering. But Pinkie was right - what did she have to lose?

Here goes nothing, the unicorn thought. She had chosen the park as the scenery was beautiful this time of year, but also because he likes being outside, when the weather would permit it; allowing him to get his exercise, with the outdoors as his personal gym. Perhaps she could see this 'Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu' in action?

Taking a deep breath, she began. "That was fun, wasn't it?" Off to a good start. In truth though, the only reason why she wasn't stuttering over her words, was because she was refusing to make eye contact. While it appeared to be working, she felt ashamed for not making eye contact with him.

"Yeah," the soothing voice of Ren filled her ears. "It's good to enjoy time with friends, and to relax, every now and then." From the tone in his voice, he seemed to be more at ease. Good, the less stressed that he was, the better and the easier it would be to talk to him. Entering the park, he pointed to an unoccupied bench just off to the side of the road, underneath a tree. He headed off in the direction of the bench, and she followed in pursuit, thinking that he wanted to sit down for a bit. . .that wasn't the case. Instead, he placed one of his legs on it, and began to stretch.

He must be getting ready for a workout. Sure enough, he was doing his warm-ups, and preparing his body for workout session. He would be at this for roughly 30 minutes, according to Pinkie's notes about him.

"Sorry Star," Ren spoke up, "but I missed my workout this morning."

"Oh, it's okay. I know how important your exercises are to you." In that moment, Ren had begun his workout by performing push-ups. He has tried on many occasions to beat Rainbow Dash's record of 100, but he hasn't been able to, thus far. Still, he has proven, time and time again, that he can give both her and Applejack a run for their bits. Watching him plant his hands on the ground, lowering himself as close to the ground as possible - while keeping his arms close to his sides - and rising back up again, she remained quiet and marveled, as he repeated the process again, and again, and again - 12 times in fact. Then he did it again.

"Hey Ren?" The human, still doing push-ups, grunted and tilted his head in her direction; the message was clear, he wasnt about to stop until he was done, but he wasn't about to ignore her either. "Why do you only do 12 push-ups, and then repeat?" Pinkie's notes didn't provide an answer, and this excited her. She was going to learn something about him that even Ponyville's party planning pony didn't know.

"My workout routine involves me doing 3 sets of 10-12 reps and pausing for a bit of a break, so as to get the best results. If I did all 30-36 reps in one go, without time to rest in between sets, it would defeat the purpose." Okay, that made scense, and it explained why he kept on repeating the process. Finishing off his remaining sets, he alternated his push-ups by bringing his hands closer together, and proceeded to lower himself for another 12 reps; except this time, he couldn't lower himself as much as he did before.

According to the scroll, these were called 'diamond push-ups'. Though Starlight couldn't, for the life of her, figure out why. The way that his hands were did not create a diamond pattern. Nevertheless, she continued to watch him complete his sets, and saw that he was now starting to glisten with sweat. She watched, as his toned muscles moved the longer he pushed himself further and further; those same toned muscles that had held her so close to him in what she would describe as an inescapable embrace. . .or, at least she  had hoped that it would be inescapable. An unusual scent started to fill her nostrils; she recognized it. . . it was her own musk. She instantly turned red in the face from embarrassment, and breathed deeply to calm her nerves. She could only hope that he doesn't smell her scent. . . but then again, maybe it would be- nonononono, she pushed such perverted thoughts - and how wonderful it would be to feel his dexterous digests across her coat and through her mane -  out of her mind, and resumed her breathing. Observing her hopefully soon to be more than best friend, she saw that he was more focused on his workouts, and wasn't sniffing the air. Or perhaps his nose isn't all that sensitive, she mentally added, which meant that she was safe from explaining the smell of lavender. This was it, if she was going to see if she can be with him, she has to make her move. . .NOW!

"Hey Ren," the human was now working out on the bench - using it not for what it was intended for. He placed the 'palms of his hands on the bench, behind his back and then lowered himself, bending his 'elbows' and knees simultaneously, and he once again repeated the process of lowering himself as far as he could, and lifting himself back up again for another 3 sets of 12 reps. "can I talk to you about something?"

"Yeah, Star?"

"Well. . .I-I-I was just wondering. . .w-w-what is it t-that y-you -" a hand over her mouth caught her off guard.

"Deep breaths, Star." Ren said gently. Doing as he had recommended, she breathed and slowly, and exhaled. Once she had done this a few times, she felt more calm and collective. "Feel better?" The sweat covered alien asked. Starlight offered a simple nod in agreement. "Good. Now, what was it that you wanted to ask?" He then resumed his workouts.

"Well I was wondering, w-what is it t-that y- you do f-for fun?" Damn stutters. To her amazement, rinsed out his exercises, and turned to meet her days. A curious expression etched upon his face.

"You know, I think that this is the first time that you ever ask me a question like that." He scratched his goatee for a little bit as if in deep thought. "It's weird." Starlight held her breath and -

"Doesn't that scroll you got from Pinkie Pie tell you that kind of stuff? Or were you wanting to ask me yourself?" Wait, how could he have known? It was impossible for him to find out, wasn't it?

"I-I-I don't know what yo-" she tried to lie - to deny ever knowing about the scroll, but Ren's stern look ended any attempts.

"Starlight, I know about the scroll. I helped Pinkie write all that info about me in order for her to stop pestering me." He offered a simple smile, and extended his hand outward, where it gently held onto was shaking hoof. Still confused as to this revelation, the unicorn remained motionless; her eyes - which were now enlarged upon hearing such news - were glued onto his own. Could it have all been true? His calm demeanor told her yes - that he was telling the truth. Though that didn't really explain how Ren knew that she, indeed, has the scroll - let alone read it; however, Starlight had her suspicions.

"How did you know?"

"Psychic powers. . ." He whispered. Upon hearing this, Starlights expression took on a look that said, 'really' and was completely unamused. For reasons unknown at the time, the human simply laughed, "I'm just messing with you, Star." Starlight freed her hoof from his embrace, and playfully shoved him back, letting loose fit of giggles from him; she joined him shortly after a few seconds. This was him playing a joke, something that she had only seen him do once or twice, and that was in the company of Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash. Perhaps he is also into pranks? If he is, and were to join forces with Pinkie, Rainbow, AND Discord. . .sweet Celestia, there would be no place that would be safe - except for the moon. The giggles ended, with the two of them sitting comfortably on the park bench, and smiling at one another.

"So, what's the real answer?" Starlight was the first to speak up.

"I snuck up to Rarity's office after a while." Ren's answer only added to the confusion festering in the mare's mind.

"Wha-"

"Twilight and Fluttershy were discussing something about a second upcoming 'Breezie' migration, or something like it - I wasn't paying much attention, really. But shortly after Pinkie had vanished, I figured something was up, and I snuck up to Rarity's office and decided to eavesdrop on you." Well, that completely destroyed Starlights earlier suspicions. She had thought that he used magic to some sort of degree, such as being able to hear much better than a dog could, or if Pinkie had merely told him what was going on. But how could a creature as large as the royal sisters - if not larger - be so stealthy, without Fluttershy and Twilight even realizing that he had suddenly vanished?

"So, since you heard about all of that. . .what do you think?" The moment of truth; Starlight silently prayed that he would agree.

"Well, I find it funny that you couldn't talk to me as you normally did before. Why is that, anyway?" So, rather than talk about her feelings towards him, HE would prefer to discuss her nervousness? Does he even feel the same way about her?

Only one way to find out, Star. Starlight tried mentally encouraging herself, while at the same time preparing for the worst. She took in a deep breath and exhaled.

"Ren. . .what would happen if you can't get back home?" He raised an eyebrow in response. "Hypothetical question, of course." She spoke rather quickly. When he remained silent for a few minutes, Starlight felt guilty for even asking, and was about to ask if the two of them could simply forget about it, when his expression changed from concerned to dumbfounded.

"So is that what this is all about? You merely want to know what it is that I would do?"

"Well. . .not exactly," Starlight said dejectedly, rubbing her forehoof with her other hoof. "Let me ask you another hypothetical question; say if. . .somepony w-was I interested in being m-more than j-just f-friends with you, what would you do?" The line has been cast. . .but what will he do?

"Well," he continued to scratch at his goatee. "Do I know this pony? Do I like this pony enough to even consider the possibility of being with her? Does this pony have an issue with me not being a pony? These are the factors that I need to know first." Well, now this was starting to get a little interesting. He was asking all the good questions, the last two she couldn't answer without revealing too much. For now, she tried to think of an answer for his last question: does she have an issue with him being different? She sat on the bench next to him for what felt like an eternity, trying to determine some answers. She briefly toyed with the idea of just 'going for it' as rainbow would say - meaning that she thought of being direct with him and tell him how she felt, but thought that perhaps it would be too forward. Her anxiety began to build up. She had to do something, and soon.

"Starlight?" Ren called out to her. She must have been silent for a while. "Are yo-" she couldn't take it anymore - her anxiety was driving her to the brink of insanity, and her doubts were eating at her. What if he IS able to return home, and she never told him of her feelings? What if she couldn't find a way into his world? What if he doesn't feel the same way about her? Deciding that it was now or never, she leaned forward, that's bringing herself closer to him, and proceeded to wrap her hooves around his neck. Her heart was pounding so loud that she was surprised that Ren couldn't hear it. A gasp escape from his mouth, his eyes widened to the size of. . .really small pin pricks? He has very small eyes - how can he even see anything? Questions for later.

Starlight hesitated, only briefly; then leaning forward some more, she shut her eyes closed, and kissed his lips. It was only for a second, and was only a small token of her affection but regardless, it felt necessary, in order to work past her shyness, and for him to know of how she felt. The big question, however, is would he return her feelings?

Pulling back, but still holding her Embrace around his neck, she directed her Gaze on his face. His face was unchanged, as if you were uncertain of what had just happened. In that moment, it felt as if time has stood still. . .had she made a mistake? He hasn't moved or even spoken up, nor has he even made the attempt to do either; he seemed to be broken.

I messed up. . .oh, sweet Celestia, I bucked up.  tears threatened to flood her eyes, and sadness was always never far behind. What have I done? Her heart came to a standstill, and she felt very ill. This was the end. . .how fitting that it never truly begun. . . She relinquished her hold on him, and started to - hold on, why couldn't she move? Looking down, she notice that his arms were still holding her still. Oh, that's right, so that he can lecture me. Starlight thought. But if that were the case, then why hasn't he started yet? She took a chance to look up at him, again. Still unchanged? Maybe he WAS bro-

"What the hell was that?!" Ren's flabbergasted voice broke the silence.

Aaaaaannnnnd here we go, Starlight mentally steeled herself, preparing herself for the worst. She felt like she could not breathe - nevermind talk. Nor could she even bring herself to look at him anymore, and decided that looking down at her forehooves would be best. Her mind began to tell her that he, no doubt, did not want to be friends anymore.

"I. . . I. . ." Starlight stuttered, her sobbing caused her to choke. "I'm sorry. . . I should go. . ." However, as she attempted to leave, she felt that something was still holding her down; he was still cleaning to her, refusing to let go. "Why. . .why are you still. . .holding me?" She barely managed to speak, feeling as if her whole world was crumbling around her.

"I. . . I don't know. Why did you kiss me? Strangely, there was no hint of anger within his voice; why wasn't there?

"I. . . I. . ." Starlight muttered something that the alien couldn't hear, it would seem. She tried, again, to break free - to turn away from him. She couldn't move much.

"Starlight. . ." Ren uttered her name, repositioning her back to face him, and lifted her chin up to look directly at her. "What's going on?" The human was showing concern for her; but why, she didn't have the faintest clue. "I know that you wouldn't simply do something irrational for no reason." The unicorn's emotions have been been building up, up, and up, until they were so overwhelming that she could no longer contain them.

She flared up, "FINE! I LIKE YOU, OKAY?!" She yelled out, frustrated. Frustrated more with herself than with him, because this wasn't the way that she wanted things to go. Silence fell upon them, once more, as the odd pair remained rooted to the bench; the alien's embrace never relented. Please, just say something. . .  Starlight mentally begged. The silence was maddening - why wouldn't he say something?

"How long?" Ren finally broke the silence, after a few moments. 

Taking a deep breath, the unicorn spoke up next, "For a while. . .since I met you, actually. . .and with the way that our conversations went. . ." The tears, which had been building up, for now falling; thus causing her fur to become matted, and her sobbing caused her to choke on her words again. Taking a few brief moments to collect herself, Starlight resumed. "I wanted to show you that I care, but I didn't know how to show it. I thought that if I messed up, it would ruin our friendship." Then a new feeling became known to her - a sense of calm, as a gentle hand caressed her cheeks, and wiped away the tears.

"Star. . ." He still referred to her by the shorten name he gave her; why?

"Don't. . ." She lifted her hoof, and pressed it firmly on his shift lips. "Let's just enjoy this, while we can. . .and then afterwards, if you don't want to see me any more, I'll undterstand." She concluded, still sobbing into his shirt. 

Starlight eventually manage to stop herself from crying. But then she felt herself being pulled into a tighter hug, though not so tight that she could not breathe. Seeing her in such a state of misery, so distraught, must have caused Ren to feel sympathy for her. His hands began to stroke her mane, while he shushed her, whispering that everything would be okay. . .but would they? Her ears flickered, as in unrecognizable tune hummed in her ears; she could not recognize it, but she instantly fell in love with it. This unknown tune must have been something from his home world, she thought. When the tune ended, she heard him speak up. The tone in his voice was rather clear to understand: he was conflicted, uncertain of things now. And it was all her fault. . .

"Star, doesn't it bother you that I'm different?" He did up a valid point, he was different. "I mean, I'm not even a stallion - let alone a pony," then bringing a hand in between them both, he used a finger to gesture from himself to her, and back to him, several times. "So how would this  even work?" Another valid question. But she remembered her secret council with Princess Cadence. The Princess of love stated that what Starlight must do is she listen to her heart, to let her love for him to blossom, and when the time was right to show it. Sadly, that's not what happened. Her heart was aching. . .she wants to be happy. . .with him. Her hooves wrapped lovingly around his neck, again, and he didn't stop her. Her feelings clouding her judgment, and rational thoughts, the mare leaned in for another kiss - believing that maybe he would understand and accept her feelings. She succeeded. . .and to her amazement, she felt him kiss back! Was this for him returning her feelings? Or was this some kind of cruel human trickery, as a means to set her up for failure? She silently prayed to the royal sisters that it wasn't the latter.

"We could just roll with it," Starlight declared, not wanting to admit that she didn't  have a clue either. But the heart wants what the heart wants, as the old saying goes. Ren's facial expression softened, after the second kiss. His hand returned to his goatee, once again.

"Just roll with it?" He began to chuckle, "I didn't. . .hmm. . .I never knew that you had a thing for tattooed, renegade freaks." He spoke, rather calmly. . .and with a sheepish smile on his face. How she loves that smile.

"You being different doesn't really matter to me. I mean, do you know about Spike's feelings towards Rarity, don't you?" He nodded, and resumed his thinking. After a couple of minutes of waiting and anticipation, with her anxiety building up, he finally spoke.

"Well. .  why the hell not?" Wait, was he actu- "I mean, there are few other ponies that I respect more than you." Starlight's heart began to beat very heavily; could he he actually be considering it? "And. . .if this is what you really want , and if we can figure out how to make it work, then. . . Yeah. Diffenitly." Starlight's heart almost leapt out from her chest - he actually said yes! The tears from earlier came back, except this time, they were for joy and happiness, for he was now hers; and she was his. She leaned in for yet another kiss. However, Ren removed his hands from her back, and wrapped them behind her head, as he brought her in for a deep, passionate kiss. One that they were both enjoying. . .and there will be many more of those to come.

Yet, Starlight couldn't shake the feeling that they were being watched. Who is out there?
> Chapter 3: Ren's new home part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"What are you doing?" Daring Do questioned the alien, who was currently carving some form of marking on his front door; it was in the shape of a diamond, yet it vaguely resembled a dragon. The human glanced over his broad shoulder, at the sound of her voice.

"Oh, this?" Ren chuckled. "This is just something to keep the hands busy." He resumes his carving, but didn't intend to ignore his guest. "Sorry Daring, I didn't hear you approach." He continues to hammer at his carving utensil, cutting away any unwanted wood.  What everthe mark represented, it must hold some significant meaning for him to chisle it as a center piece.

"Its fine, Ren." Daring said.  She observed him for some time, until he was finished.  Taking a step back to admire his craft, he turned around to face her, and stared at her with his hazel colored eyes.  Clearing his throat, he inquired of her recent voyage into the Everfree Forest.

5 months after his arrival, the strange bipedal creature - a human named Ren - has started to show the signs for a very stressful existance; his frustration lead him to lash out at the smallest of problems, and his lack of control of his emotions only seem to increase with time.  Lately, he has been complaining about a lack of sleep, and has been rather slow in most of his activities, and has been having trouble maintaining focus.  Everypony could see it; it was in the way that he moved, the way that he would speak. . . This increase of tension has caused him to be sent back to the hospital in the last couple of months.  The doctors did their best for him, but with no knowledge of his kind, the best they could do was to take a guess as to what could help him relieve his tension, and to set him in a way that would be best for him in the future.  They believe that the main cause behind his stress is related to his self-appointed quest to locate the rogue wizards that fled from his world, and bring them back; though the human never denied the fact that he has been exploring the forest for days, another factor in this matter could be because he hasn't had the time to get adjusted to life in Ponyville.

Princess Twilight called for a meeting with her friends, and asked if they could help him to adjust, but she also asked Daring Do if perhaps she could assist with his search.  Ren would be permitted to go on these expeditions only once a month, so as to eliminate any built up tension, and to help him on his journy.  since then, the counsil of friendship, as well as Twilight's pupil - Starlight Glimmer - have done their best to ensure that he was relaxing, while Daring was off exploring.  On the occasions that he could join, the two of them would work well together, and throughout their voyage, the duo had discovered many hidden caves that dot the landscape of the dence forest - as well as signs of their previous occupants; the wizards were clearly here - the alchemy tables, enchanting tables, and other wizardy items that were left behind were proof to that.  But they were no longer using the caves.  And in all the caverns that the duo had explored, they found some fragments of some kind of crystal; possibly the same kind that Ren claimed to have seen from the first mage he had encountered.  While the function of the crystals are unknown, Princess Twilight asked for their recovery - believing that she could reforge the shards into a new crystal, and that with one of them, she could not only discover their functions, but also find a way to locate the fleeing wizards.

Yet, every time that they discorvered an unoccupied cavern, the human's mood would change drastically; upon returning home, he would spend several hours going over his maps, charts, and a wide assortment of books, in a vein attempt to uncover another cave, or a subterranean labyrinth that they had mislooked.  He would carry on with this task late into the night, until sleep finally overcame him.  All the while, the counsil of friendship would keep watch over him. 

This has to stop, Daring thought.

Clearing her throat, the pegasi adventurer stated, "Same findings as usual, and even mo-" Before she could finish her statement, Ren rolled his eyes in frustration, and muttered something incoherently to himself. He then stormed off to a nearby tree, shaking his head all the way there.  "Hey, where are you going?"  He didn't answer.

"They're not making this easy," He spoke aloud. Upon reaching the tree, Daring noticed that haning on a sturdy branch was a bucking bag, and stationed on a nearby bench were a pair of what the human called 'MMA gloves', and 'hand wraps'. "Mind if I get a little workout in to 'relieve stress'?"  He made qoutations using his fingers, while making a mocking voice of Nurse Redheart.  The adventuring mare didn't respond.  "Gonna take your silence as a 'yes' then."  He proceeded to bind his hands with the hand wraps - weaving the fabric around his fingers, and continued to cover up the rest of his hands and wrist, until he was satisfied.  Dawning his gloves, he was about to begin his workouts, when Daring stepped forward.

"Ren, there are other ways to relieve stress."

"I know," he grunted, not wanting to hear what she has to say.  "But this is the way that I know how to best handle it."  He finished with a heavy sigh, and took on a fighting stance; bringing this closed fists up to his face and standing sideways.  She took notice that in this stance, he didn't leave himself open.  But why were his feet moving so quickly?  And for that matter, why was he bobbing up and down, like he was avoiding an attacker?

In a moment, he struck the heavy bag with a flurry of blows; every so often, he would use his legs to strike the inanimated object at various points - almost like he was seeing somepony in place of the bag.  What Daring had taken notice of the most, however, was the amount of force that he was putting into this strikes.  Each blow had the perfect blend of speed, strength, and precision - even his 'footwork' seemed to be just as quick, for he moved in circles around the bag like it were alive; like he was actually fighting somepony.  She also noticed that he was keeping his distance for the most part, rather than being up close to the bag.  When the bag would swing at him, he would dodge off to the side of it, and unleash a rapid barrage of punches on the lower parts of the bag, and finished with one last shot to the top.  Had he fought in such a matter before?  It was now fully apparent to her:  she doesn't really know much about him.

Perhaps I sho-

Before Daring Do could finish her train of thought, a loud noise entered her ears that sounded as if there was apony screaming.  Tilting her head, she focused on the noise. . . Yep.  It was somepony screaming, alright.  It sounded. . . like it was abover her?

"INCOMING!"

Within the blink of an eye, something had crashed into the adventuring pony, with the force of a hurricane.  The last visual image to grace the mare's rosey colored eyes was a fluff of a multi colored stripped mane. . . its colors were simular to that of a rainbow.  Darkness shrouded her. . .




The campfire illuminated the Shadows that envelop the campsite. The pair of adventurers had agreed that at first light they would pack up, and explore as much of the forest as possible, until dusk. While the duo has succeeded in discovering and exploring a vast number of caverns, they were unsuccessful in tracking the mages. Though it was clear that they were using the caves, because several wizardry items including some gem fragments, were left behind - almost as if they were hurried for whatever the reason.

After several hours, they returned to the campsite - as per usual. Except this time, the human exerted himself; he complained about having soreness all over his back, and his voice sounded very discomforting.

"Are you alright?" Daring inquired, after hearing a rather painful sounding grunt coming from Ren, as he took a seat on a log. Yet, despite trying to play it cool, Daring could see that he wasn't. "What happened?" 

Whenever they encountered a cave with multiple tunnels, the duo would split up to cover more ground, and rendezvous near the entrance, once their search was over. With the way that he was complaining about back pain, she guess that he slept wrong, or he didn't do his stretches after exploring the caverns, AND his workouts. Either that, or he had an accident while he was exploring, and probably fell.

"It's nothing, just. . ." He released a painful Grunt, and try to stretch his back. Even with the shirt on, Daring took notice of his withers. . . Images of what could possibly be underneath his clothings and begun to enter her thoughts. Would it be wrong to find out? Another painful filled grunt woke her up from her lewd thoughts.

"Here, lay down on your stomach." She instructed. When he hesitated, she declared that she would give him a massage. The alien's expression was difficult to read; did he not want one, or was he trying to do things on his own again? He continue to stare blankly at her. His stubbornness nearly reminded her of herself - that is until a certain multi-colored maned pegasus showed her what it's like when you let others help you.

"Ren please," Daring pleaded. "Let me help you. I may not be all that good at massages, but I can-"

"Okay," Ren sighed. He proceeded to roll out his sleeping bag, and lay on top of it. However, to Darring's disapproval, he kept his shirt on.

Celestia dammit, she sweated mentally. It's okay, there will be other times. . . maybe. She shrugged her shoulders, and trotted over to him. All she could think of is what he looks like without his shirt on. And for that matter, what about the rest of him? Sure, she could always ask him to remove his clothes, but he demands to be clothed at all times, no matter how hot the summertime's would get. And besides, thinking of what he looks like was a bit of fun for the bold adventure; she merely thought of this as another mystery, one that she could enjoy and-

Whoa, okay. Let's back up here. She stopped her perverse thoughts of seeing him without his- I mean, come on! It's not like I'm attracted to him. Besides, I'm just helping him relieve tension. She would have convinced herself that she was just merely helping him - IF she wasn't currently eyeballing him from top to bottom, and stealing occasional -or rather mulitple - glances at his flank.

"Come on," came a faint voice that sounded strangely familiar. Choosing to ignore it, however, the now blushing Daring Do place a single hoof on his back, just above is flank, and wow. . . Strangely, even with a shirt on, she could feel the muscles that lay beneath it. Applying a bit more pressure, Ren grunted a bit; is whole back must be really tense, Daring thought, and knew that by climbing onto him, it would do more harm than good.

Instead, she flapped her wings and hovered above him. Being very careful so as to not cause him any more discomfort than what he was already experiencing, she descended ever so softly on his back - starting with his shoulders. In her eyes, she was merely helping a fellow adventurers ease the tension around his very very VERY broad shoulders, and then work our way down to the rest of his back. In reality, though, she wanted to know how his flank would feel.

Oh yeah, Daring grinned. I bet its nice and firm.  Wouldn't mind laying my head on that. It looked so squishy, yet firm at the same time. It took all the will that she could muster to not reach a hoof down to his flank, and molded to her heart's content. Turning her attention back to his shoulders, she began to-

"Come on, come on, come on!" The familiar voice beckoned her.  It was a bit raspy, and sounded very much like-




The tan furred pegasi felt like some pony was shaking her awake; rather frantically, too. Her eyes remained closed, those she could hear the same raspy voice that had interrupted her lustful dream, and she could already tell who the owner was. But why was Rainbow Dash here? And why does it feel like she was laying in a bed? Daring moaned out in discomfort, feeling as if she had just finished with a workout. . . Wait, a workout; she remembered that Ren was doing a workout, after Daring had delivered some bad news. Then she heard the screams of a pony, and a very distinctive rainbow mane. She moaned again, as she tried to move.

"Ah think that she is waking up, y'all." A voice that sounded very much like a farmer entered her ears. 

"Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh," Rainbow Dash sounded very paniced. "Isshealright? Renpleasetellmetha-!" She spoke incredibly fast, but was silenced by something covering her mouth. Opening her eyes, albeit slowly to reduce light exposure, Daring saw that she was now indoors. Standing next to her was an orange coat mare wearing a Stetson hat; rainbow at introduced all of her friends before, and her descriptions of this earth pony made it rather easy to identify. Applejack - the element of honesty. She smiled at Daring, and called for Rainbow and Ren to come over.

Ren was holding Rainbows jaws shut, saying that everything will be okay. He said that the spill he had cast would dull the pain a bit. Using her front hooves to position herself up, Daring grunted from the soreness that her body was now feeling.

Rainbow must have hit me harder than I thought, Daring thought. She rubbed the back of her head with her hoof.

"Easy there, sugarcube." Applejack offered her concern for the adventuring pony. "Yer a little rough around the edges."

Rainbow Dash crept up to the edge of the bed, her eyes all watery from the tears of what she had done. "Daring, I am so so so sorry, please forgive me!" The cyan blue Pegasus attempted to embrace her idol, and friend, but a hand on her chest held her in place.

"Dash, give her some time to recover." Ren declared. "The spell I used -"

"Wait," Daring spoke up. She took the time to observe her surroundings, and was completely confused. Who's room was she currently in? It didn't look like any hospital room that she was familiar with. Looking down on the bed she was currently laying on, it clearly wasn't meant for a single pony; it was massive! And surprisingly very soft. "Where am I?" She inquired. There was something that seemed a little off about this room. Everything just felt so. . . roomy. Like she was inside somepony's home.

"You're in my room." Ren stated. Daring's eyes widened. His room? Daring had never been in his room before; the living room was all that she would see whenever the two of them would go over there maps, and charts, and plan out their next course of action.

"How are you feelin' sugarcube?" Applejack questioned. "Y'all don't have any broken bones, do ya?"

"Umm. . ." Sensing the rising concern in the atmosphere, Daring Do took some time to examine yourself. Stretching out her wings, she entered a soundless "thank Celestia" under her breath, that they weren't broken. Going a few days without flying is an experience best avoided - even experiencing it once was enough. Nothing else seemed to be hurting, besides her head.

Well, now that that's out of the way, she mentally said to herself. Lets see what we got here.  Her eyes started to drift across the room. Her examination of this new and unfamiliar surroundings ended, when Ren had taken notice of her actions.

"Daring, is something wrong?"

"O-oh, umm. . ." Daring begin, but her mind came to a grinding halt, upon finding something unusual. In the far back corner of the room student door. The door was closed, but what was really unusual about it were the engraving upon it. Etched into the wooden surface for small runes of an unknown origin. In all of her years in studying archaeology - be it at her old University in Manehattan, or on the field - and years of adventuring, never once had she come across something as arcane as this. Could it be some kind of human written language? She squinted her eyes - trying to focus on the etching - when a familiar grunt coming from Ren caught her attention.

"It's the bathroom, Daring." He stated firmly. "Help yourself. As for me," he walked over to the door that leads out into the hallway. "I'm going to get a drink." Ren let out a heavy sigh. Daring watched him, as he crossed the threshold.

"Ren, wait." She called out to him. Daring half expected him to keep walking, but instead he remained at the doorway, and looked back at her, with heavy unblinking eyes. "Outside, you said that your workouts were the best way for you to manage your stress. Why?" Again, she expected for him not to answer. . .but. . .

"Not just my workouts. Fighting helps me too." He reluctantly replied. "But since I can't fight anyone here, I turn to my workouts." He pinched the spot between his eyes, and groaned. "Although, I do admit that some mead every now and then is harmless." He declared with a witty smile.

"Do you have any cider?" Rainbow Dash inquired.

"RD!" Applejack snapped. "This ain't the time fer silly questions. Besides, ah reckon that he-" 

"Actually," the human began, interrupting the farm pony. "I do have some hard cider. And I wouldn't mind the company." He smiled, and beckoned for the two mares to join him, if they so wished. "Daring needs her rest anyway, so-"

"Oh, like hay you're leaving me out of this!" The brash adventuring pony said in defiance. With a careful leap, and using her wings to glide down from the massive bed, she landed gracefully onto the floor to join in the festivities.




"So, what brought you two out here?" Ren asked, taking a sip of his drink; Griffonstone Rum, his choice of 'poison' that he imported from the Griffon kingdom. It was an acquired taste, but very delicious to those that could appreciate it - with that perfect mixture of almond milk blended with cinnamon, coconut, and spiced rum. It was as sweet as the nonalcoholic apple cider, and had enough of a kick to put a dragon on its rump. Yet, astonishingly, Ren was drinking it, and was completely fine. Late into the afternoon, the four of them were drinking, and discussing various topics.

"Ah was just passin' by, on my way to see how y'all were doin', when ah saw Rainbow performin' 'em fancy moves, again." Applejack declared sternly. Glancing next to her, she nudged the pony in question, and asked, "What were y'all tryin' to do THIS time, RD?" The farm pony took a swig from her mug of cider. The alcoholic variety.

"Its for an upcoming show the Wonderbolts will be hosting next month in Las Pegasus." Rainbow says enthusiastically. "Spitfire wants me to get ready for it. But," she paused before continuing. "I botched up the maneuver, and lost control." Rubbing the back of her head with her hoof, she cast an apologetic glance to Daring, whom sat herself next to Ren. Just before the Wonderbolt newbie could utter a word, Daring held aloft her hoof to stop her.

"You've already said that you're sorry. There's no need to keep saying it." She smiled.  Rainbow smiled back at her, sheepishly.  Turning her attention over to Ren, Daring asked, "You know, you never really did explain how you're able to live so comfortably."  She finished, raising an eye brow.  The human was in the middle of drinking his rum - straight from the bottle, when he stopped mid-chug.

The human gently placed the bottle back down on the coffee table, where it made a solid 'thunk' upon making contact with the table's surface.  Using the back of his hand to wipe away any rum that was left on his lips, he turned to her, and answered. "You do know that this house is a gift, right?"

"Yes, I know." Daring do nodded, then took a large gulp of her hard cider.  "What I mean is, how do you live day by day?  Do you have a job, here?"

"Oh," he replied.  "No, I don't have a job.  Cel-"

"No job!?"Applejack shouted, spitting out some of her cider in the process.  "But where do y'all get yer food from?"  Using his magic, Ren levitated a cloth from the kitchen, and proceeded to wipe the table clean.  He then offered the rag to the two Pegasis, who declined it.

"Well, I was about to say that Princess Celestia provided me with some food, and enough gold to last me for a month." 

So, Daring thought.  That's why he has been pushing himself to find the mages as soon as possible.  The money will run out eventually.  Did he really come to Equestria with nothing more than just the clothes on his back, and a couple of weapons?

"Well, if y'all need work, Ah can offer you some good an' honest work around the farm."  The farm pony offered.

"Well, thanks AJ.  But as soon as I find them, I'll be returning to Skyrim."

Okay, I think its pretty clear that this colt doesn't know how to relax.  The adventuring mare thought.  Than again, I'm not one to talk.  The room got quiet real quick, with the exception of the human lightly taping his strange digests against the table. 

"Have you read the rest of the 'Daring Do' series yet?"  The rainbow maned Pegasus questioned Ren.  Its weird; when he was at the castle, the alien was introduced to the series of books, and chose to read about her adventures and exploits, rather than ask-

Hey, wait a minute.  Daring thought, completely drowning out the conversation being currently held.  I could ask him about this own exploits.  I mean, he IS a soldier, or whatever a Legionnaire is. . . Maybe he has a tale or few.  Daring smirked to herself, and tuned back into the conversation, just in time to hear a very enthusiastic RD describe the time that she and her friends helped Daring stop Ahuizotl.  Heh, good times.

"- and the best part is that we became such awesome friends, that she included me in her latest issue!"  Ren whistled in amusement, seemingly adding fuel to her ego.  The Wonderbolt newbie puffed out her chest in pride.

"That's just like Rainbow," the orange farmer pony declared, rolling her eyes in annoyance.  "Always hoggin' the glory.  Y'all do remember that you didn't help Daring Do all by yerself, right?"  Rainbow shrugged, and merely took a gulp of her cider, smirking the entire time.

Clearing her throat, Daring looked over to Rainbow, "Yeah, those were pretty good times back then." Rainbow nodded.  "Even if it took, at the time, an obnoxious fan girl, AND all of her friends to help."  The prideful pony frowned, whilst the others chuckled at her.  Daring winked at the mare, as a way to let Rainbow know that it was all in good fun.  And of course, she had in fact included all of the cyan Pegasus's friends in her latest book based on that particular event, so there wasn't any need to steal the spotlight.  Besides, the important thing is that the battle had been won; the bad guy sent packing, to lick his wounds, and a new story was made from the experience.  Daring turned her attention to Ren, and grinned.  "Speaking of adventures," the archaeologist spoke aloud.  Almost as if on cue, the alien gently placed his bottle of rum back on to the table.

"I take it that you want to hear my tales of 'adventure', am I right?"  Ren deadpanned, and making more of those finger quotations again.  Daring thought that perhaps he wasn't about to share a tale; why?  Was it too much to ask for?  It only seem fair that he regale his guest with stories of his own adventures, especially since he had taken the time to read about hers.  The Pegasus - and the other two mares, she had guessed - watched, as the human ran a hand through his shorten dark mane.  He looked at the trio, their eyes unblinking; then, just when daring's ears folded back, he smiled.  "Okay.  I'll do it."  The trio of ponies cheered, but their cheers were cut short, when the human declared that should there be a tale that he didn't wish to share, then they should respect his wishes.  They agreed. "So, what do you want to know?"




Okaaaay; was not expecting that.  Daring thought.  The trio's eyes widened, and their jaws agape upon hearing of a rather. . . fortuitous event:  Ren's arrival to Skyrim.  He left no details out - how he was taken as a prisoner, and was carted off to a town called Helgan, and that he would have been executed were it not for the arrival of a dragon.  There are dragons where he comes from?  How do they defend themselves?  Ren continued with his story.  He had just finished saying how he and his friend, Hadvar, survived several giant spiders, and snuck passed a bear.

"Once we were outside, we hid until the dragon flew overhead.  Hadvar suggested that I go to Riverwood, and speak with his uncle - Alvar, the blacksmith.  And that was just day one."  He finished by taking another swig of his drink.

"Whoa nelly," Applejack uttered.  "That must've been terrifyin' fer y'all.  Did. . .did anypony survive, aside you an' yer friend?"

"Only a few of us.  I doubt that I would have made it out, were it not for Hadvar. He suggested that if I wanted to help, I should join up with the Legion. And that's how I came to be one of them."  After a bit, Ren stood up, and stretched his aching limbs.  "Excuse me girls, but I'm going to take a shower."  He excused himself from the table, and headed up stairs.  As he walked away, Daring's eyes instinctively locked onto his well rounded rump.

As she continued to stare longingly, her sultry eyes gazing upon him, she thought of what it would be like to see him without those pesky clothes on.  This also meant that she wasn't paying attention enough to see a cyan hoof waving about in front of her.

"Helloooooo!"  Rainbow called out to her idol, frantically waving her hoof around.  "Equestria to Daring.  Are you in there?"  Upon realizing that somepony was trying to gain her attention, the adventuring mare shook herself from her sultry haze.

"Wha-what?" Daring's face blushed, as she turned to face Rainbow Dash.  "S-s-sorry Dash, I was. . . uh. . ."  She struggled with her words.  This never happened.  NEVER.  In all of her years of archaeological expeditions, death defying adventures, and escapes from certain doom, Daring had considered herself to be completely fearless, fully confident that she could overcome any obstacle that life would throw her way.  But. . . why was she chocking on her own words?  And why has she been having such lewd thoughts of the human?  Also, why does it feel like somepony placed a hoof on her withers?

"Sugarcube," the apple farmer spoke up.  "What's on yer mind?'  Daring glanced over to the farm pony.  Was she offering concern?  Another thought entered the forefronts of Daring's mind:  would it be safe to tell them of her perverse thoughts of the alien? 

Before she could even speak, however, she noticed an odd sound, coming from upstairs.  I thought that he was going to take a shower, Daring thought.  The others must have picked up on the sound as well, because their ears were twitching, and much like Daring, their gazes were directed towards the source of the unknown noise.  

"Huh," Rainbow jested.  "What do you think is going on?"

"It. . . it sounds like he's. . . prayin'."  Applejack stated.  Tilting her ear closer to the source of the sound, Daring payed close attention to the sound; the farm pony was right.  But why?  And for that matter, what language is he speaking?  It was difficult to describe what she was hearing; an entirely different language that she - Equestria's greatest archaeologist - had never heard spoken before?  This was worth investigating.

As Daring proceeded towards the stairway, Applejack called out to her, "Whoa there, sugarcube.  Where do y'all think yer goin'?"  The apple farmer raised a curious eyebrow.

"Sorry girls, this is something that I need to know."  The adventuring Pegasus declared, and continued to march up the stairs.  From her current position, she could see that the door to Ren's room was not completely closed.  Taking one step up the stairs, she was stopped by a flash of cyan blue.  Rainbow halted her progress. 

"Uh, Daring.  Don't you think that you're invading his privacy?"

"RD, he is speaking in some unknown language, he has some kind of weird arcane writing on one of his doors.  There's very little that we know about him - other than that he can somehow use magic, and that magic doesn't seem to work on him."  Daring listed all that was known of the alien, all the while keeping her perverse thoughts of him to herself.  Just then, the strange chanting stopped, but it resumed a few seconds later.  The longer that she stood in place, listening to this unknown chanting, the more anxious she became; if she didn't uncover the mystery behind this soon, she'll be driven up the wall.  An idea came to the adventurer's mind; perhaps since they also spend time with him, maybe Rainbow and Applejack know something more of him.  It was worth a try.

"Besides, aren't you a little curious about him?  Or has he told you something about himself?"  She inquired.  In an instant, Rainbow's eyes widened.  She then turned to  glance over to Applejack, whom was currently rubbing her right forehoof with her left, and was facing up towards the slightly opened door; almost like she were in deep thought.

"Well," Applejack said. "It ain't like he hasn't told us anythin'."

"Except not of himself," Rainbow added.  "He only told us of his adventures.  So. . ." Rainbow put a hoof to her chin.  This was all the proof that Daring Do needed.

"Yeah, that's what I thought."  She smirked.  Flapping her wings, she took to the air, and flew pass Rainbow on her way over towards the door.  The faint sound of a certain farmer cursing to herself, as well as lightly placed hoofsteps, indicated that Applejack was coming up the stairs.  The next audible sound to grace her ears were the sound of another pair of wings flapping close by; Rainbow was catching up to her.  Daring continued to smirk.

Heh, I knew that they would come around, Daring thought.  However, something came to mind; what if he wasn't wearing his clothes?  Would they try to jump him, or would they turn around and walk away?  Or would they stop her should she try anything?  None of these scenarios set well with her.  Over the last few months, she has asked herself what he looks like under those clothes, and why does he need them.  Then those thoughts became more perverse the longer she lingered on the subject.  How would he measure up?  Would he be as big as a stallion or would he be bigger?  She blushed intensely, and silently prayed to the Royal Sisters that she could find out.  

But while Daring still wished to see if the alien - Ren - could live up to her expectations, for now, she'll have to play it cool and keep herself in check.  She was having very little luck.  Her wings began to stiffen, as she continued to think of him.  How he would look like without his clothes, how he would measure up, how it would feel to be rutted by him. . . But then she remembered that she wasn't alone, and she shouldn't be thinking of such perversion.  Doing some deep breathing, she cooled herself down.  Which she believes is something that Ren needs to do. . . And the more that she thought about it, the more Daring couldn't help but wonder if the real reason behind his increase of stress may be related to a certain. . . urge that he could be having. 

Hmmm. . . Maybe that's it.  If that's the case, then perhaps I could help him.

Of course, there was still the matter of Rainbow Dash and Applejack. . . she hummed to herself, trying to figure out what she could possibly do.  An idea came to mind, causing Daring to chuckle quietly to herself.  It was a devious, evil plan; but it could be very enjoyable, if it all works out.

Creeping ever so quietly upon the opened door, the trio peered into Ren's room.  He had his back facing them; his shirtless back.  His well toned, shirtless, and very scared up back.  Daring felt her wings stiffen again, at the thought of her own lewdness.  Then she began to sniff the air, for there was a scent that was new to her.  It wasn't sweat, that much she could tell; he didn't workout that long before Rainbow crashed into her.  It smells a bit bitter, yet clean with a brush of something spicy underneath.  This new scent, she guessed, was his own musk.  It tickled her nostrils.

Whoosh Daring Do's wings flared outwards, and a small blush appeared across her cheeks. . . But she wasn't the only one to have a problem with a wingboner; looking back at her biggest fan, Daring could see that Rainbow was just as shocked as she was.  From the corner of her eyes, she could see that Applejack had a blush as red as the apples on her Cutie Mark stretched across her face as well.  Perhaps they also picked up his scent?  Taking her eyes off of her 'partners in crime' as it were, the adventuring mare glanced back at her prize, and proceeded to observe him.

Why is he kneeling in front of the bathroom door?  Why is he not wearing his shirt?  I mean, not that I'm complaining; damn, he looks good.  She grinned.  But there was something else that she noticed.  Resting within his hands was his weapon - his sword.  Why was he holding it?  The alien was looking down at his blade, but then cast his gaze to the door.  Daring figured that he was looking at the etchings; What language was that, and what does it mean?  he began to speak up.

"Nau Dii Zin, Zu''u Dreh Vaat Viir Mid Wah Fin Jun!  Ahrk Sindogahvon Thaarn Wah Fin Kendovs Do Ok Lot Junaar!"  It was that language; that same language that the trio overheard earlier. . . But what was he saying?

"Ah think he's speakin' some kind of fancy."  Applejack whispered.

"I've never heard any of the Canterlot ponies speak like that before."  Rainbow Added.  Daring hummed and tuned out all other noises.  Going throught her mental list of all the recorded societies and spoken languages in Equestria's history, she tried to determine if there was one that like what he was speaking, but none of them were like this.  She paid close attention to Ren's chanting.  He seemed to be struggling a bit.  Like he couldn't find the words for that unknown language that could be transverse from Ponish - or whatever language that he could speak that everypony could understand.

"Aal Daar. . . above judge?  Ugh!  Fuck it.  May those above judge me, and those below take me, if I fail in my duty!"  It seemed that he gave up on that chanting.

Probably because there aren't that many words in Ponish that could be translated to that language?  She thought. Or it could be because its difficult to speak.  Sure sounds like it.  Just then, Ren unsheathed his sword, and helit it aloft - its tip pointing upwards.

"Long live the Emperor!  Long live the Empire!"  Then sheathing the blade once more, he remained in his kneeled position for a time.  Then he chuckled.  "You needn't linger by my door, girls."

Wait, he knew we were here the whole time?! Daring thought in complete shock.  But how?!  He wasn't paying any attention to us the whole time he was doing that weird chant!

Applejack was the first to speak up, "How did you know that we were here, sugarcube?  She was a bit flabbergasted herself.

"The wings," he pointed out.  "I heard them flare out, and I also heard your hoofsteps, AJ".  The farm pony lowered her Stetson hat in an apologetic matter.

"We didn't mean to bother ya none."  Ren still had his back facing them.  Taking the time to examine the scars on his back, Daring noticed a multitude of different kinds - but the most noticeable ones were four large gashes around his right shoulder; scratches from a large cat, maybe.  They seem to fit the descriptions of one. . . possibly a tiger.  Another one was a large burnt mark, just below the area of his tiger wound.  Perhaps he got that when the dragon attacked?  If so, then its a miracle that he survived.  On his other shoulder, there was what looks like a bite mark; continual examination revealed it to be from a species of bear.  How is it that he could have all of these wounds and still keep going? All the wounds seem to have been treated, but it was unknown if he did it himself or not.  Most likely he treated himself.

He stood up to his feet, and turned to face his guests.  There were two more 'tattoos' upon his chest, but it seems that one was burned along with some of his flesh.  From what little of the image remained, Daring could just barely perceive a bluish purple rose, and a heart.  Must have been for somepony he really cared for?  Well, whatever the case, the scorched flesh around it made it impossible to determine what the original image was.  

The other depicted a pair of 'hands' that were clasped together, with some kind of pedant dangling between them.  A bird of some kind was near the hands; both the bird and the hands were in the clouds.  she guessed that this could be a tribute to somepony he knew.  And if she needed any further proof, she need only to look below the hands.  A date of birth. . . and death. . . but who-

"Its alright, girls."  Ren spoke up, breaking her focus.  Rainbow stepped forward.

"So. . . umm. . . w-what language was that?"  The human gave a smile as for his first response, and provided an answer.

"Dovahish - the tongue of the Dragons."

"Wait wait wait," Daring quickly getting into the conversation.  "Dragons have their own -" She stopped herself.  There could be more time for that later.  "Nevermind, so what were you chanting earlier?"  Ren walked over to a mantle and placed his sword on it.  Then, speaking in a calmly matter, he answered.

"Well first off, yes - dragons in Skyrim have their own language, and as for my 'chant', its actually the oath that we all take when we join the Legion."

Rainbow zipped over to him, and was currently at eye level with him. "An oath?  That sounds so cool!" She could no longer contain her excitement. "So, what's the oath? Oh, is it something awesome like, 'I vow to slay 100 dragons, just to prove how awesome and badass I am'?" The brash Pegasus held a hoof over her chest, mocking the human. Ren deadpanned, and cleared his throat, as he recited his oath once more.

"Upon my honor, I do swear undying loyalty to the Emperor! And unwavering obedience to the officers of His Great Empire! May those above judge me, and those below take me, if I fail in my duty! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Empire!" The human spoke loudly, and puffed his chest a little. He finished by pounding a clinched fist to his chest, and stood in attention, proud of his service to the Legion. 

But as his bravado begins to die down, he let out a heartfelt sigh, and lowered his gaze. Now staring at the floor, he seem to be. . . upset; saddened. Why?

"Umm, sugarcube?" Applejack stepped forward. "Why were you reciting yer oath?" He sat on the edge of his massive bed, resting his arms on his lap, still looking down.

"The oath. . . I recite it to remind myself of my duties, but to also. . ." He paused, briefly. Then looking at the trio, he asked if they could keep this a secret. When they agreed, he resumed. "The oath helps calm me down. Lately, I've been plagued with these. . ." He groaned in defeat, not wanting to say what was on his mind out loud. 

Daring sensed that something was amiss, and started to think of nearly every possibility. In the end, she thought about him possibly having a certain urge plaguing him, but didn't want to assume without any proof to back up this theory. She beckoned the other mares to follow her out to the hallway. They complied.

"What is it, Daring?" Rainbow questioned.

"What have you all done to help him relax?" Daring raised a curious eyebrow. Her own urges could wait - this was more important.

"Well," Applejack began, rubbing her chin. "Ah can't speak fer the others, but Ah've been offerin' him help with his garden." The duo looked onto Rainbow Dash, and waited for her response.

"I've been helping him stay in shape, and being awesome - like me!" Rainbow held a dramatic pose, causing the others to roll their eyes. These were not the answers that Daring was looking for.  She glanced back at the human again, and saw that he placed his hands on his face; he was depressed about something, and Daring believed that she was right on the mark.

Choosing to whisper to the others, Daring informed them of her suspicions, and how was the best way to help relieve him of his tensions. The shocked expressions that she was greated with meant that neither of them were sure about this, and that there had to be another way.

"Daring," said Rainbow.  "A-are you sure  that there's no other way to. . . relieve him of his stress?" Her face turned red from her blushing, and her wings were stiff. 

"Listen, RD" Daring began to explain herself.  "From what I understand, nothing else that has been done is working for him. Even his own methods of stress relieve isn't working for him." She remained silent, until the others looked down in shame. "Besides, he probably hasn't had any sort of action since he came here." 

That caught their attention.  She had a good point - he mainly focused on his physical maintenance, his magical prowess, and his mission.  Applejack mentioned that there were times, when he was in the market, that a mare or two would eyeball him and genuinely show an interest, but he refused and would have a 'mighty strong blush', as the farmer had said, across his face.

"Okay, that make sense." Hummed Applejack. "Now, for the big question; why get us involved?"

Daring wasn't expecting that; she didn't even come up with a good enough of a reason why she wanted them both to be involved - other then the fact that it could  be hot. She began to contemplate on an answer. . . 

He is pretty big - height wise, anyway. Maybe. . . I can use their own characteristic traits to persuade them? Worth a try. Daring searched her memories for anything that she knew about Applejack and Rainbow Dash. The farm pony likes to help everypony when they need it, while the wonderbolt newbie was always willing to help her friends, too. 

That could work, Daring's grin grew more wolfish. 

"Well, truth be told, I don't think that I can help ease his tension all by myself. I mean, just look at the size of him." The duo glanced over at their human friend, and nodded in agreement. "It would be easier, if I had help. Plus this would help him to adjust to life in Equeatria, wouldn't you say so?"

Both Applejack and Rainbow Dash argued amongst themselves, while keeping their voices down. Daring waited in silence for what felt like a few minutes, until finally one of them responded.

"Okay," Rainbow spoke. "So how do we go about this?"  It seems that they were agreeing to go along with Daring's plan.

"Leave that to me, girls. And this will work out for all of us."  Daring gave a sultry grin as she finished her statement.  The trio crossed the threshold back into his room.

"So. . ." Daring cleared her throat. She had to choose her words correctly, and carefully - in case he were to refuse.  But she also figured that this would be another good opportunity to get to know him better. "Ren, do you mind if I ask you something?"  Ren was in the middle of placing his sword on the wall mounted rack, and removing his handwraps. 

"What is it?" He sounded very tired, and he had his back facing towards her and the others. 

"Well, with the way that you be been talking about the Legion, me and the girls were just curious; how do Legionnaires prepare for a high risk mission?"

That got his attention. The room fell eerily quiet, to the point that one would be driven mad.

"Odd," he stated. Turning around, he stared at his guests and raised a curious eyebrow. "Why do you want to know about that?"

"What?" Daring advanced forwards, with the others in tow. She hoped and prayed that neither of them were smirking, or acting suspicious. "We just want to get to know you better, and hear some of your adventures with the Legion. Is there a problem with that, colt?" She studied his facial expressions for a bit, trying to determine if he was catching on; or at the very least try to see if he would share a tale of his time with the Imperial Legion. Yet, he remained motionless and expressionless. He wasn't making this easy for her.

Come on, just take the bait already! Daring wanted to scream aloud for him to say something - anything! 

"With violence," the stubborn human finally let out an answer, and what a surprise - the answer was 'violence'. How predictable. 

Oh well, it's better than nothing. Daring mentally told herself. Granted, his answer was rather predictable.

"There has to be more to it than that, sugarcube." Said Applejack.

"Nope, that's pretty much it." Ren smiled a bit before adding, "Our commanders run us tight, and they know that we need to blow off steam. Each of our garrison forts have stations for weapons training, smithing, battle scenarios - or simulations if we have a powerful illusionist, exercises, and even full contact sparing. Whatever helps everyone to relieve tension." 

Daring had notice that the small smile was beginning to widen. This was a good start, and everything that he was saying was pretty interesting. Now she has something to work with. Still, one thing stuck out to her; they fight each other before fighting enemy forces? Why would they do such a thing? 

"Wait a minute," RD spoke. "So you're saying that the Legion encourages it's own soldiers to fight each other  before going into a high risk mission?"

Ren held his hands in front of him, in a way that resembled how one would attempt to calm somepony down, or to insure that everything was alright. "The fights are always supervised - with healing potions on standby, and we only use kendo sticks for weapons and leather shields for defense. Nobody is going to risk a serious injury that'll jeopardize the mission, and it's a great way to settle grudges amicably." 

The tone in his voice portrayed his gleefullness. Ren must of had some experience with these sparing sessions; or perhaps he was reliving the events of a certain memory? Daring did not have to wait very long to hear an answer. He started pacing back and forth between his bed and the 'bathroom' door, recalling an event from his time in Skyrim, speaking with nostalgia. His happy smirk never left his face.

"I remember right before I joined the Legion; Legate Rikke had sent me, and one other new recruit, to clear our the bandits at Fort Hraggstad. Very dangerous." He stopped his pacing, and stood in place. "This other recruit - an Orc, from one of those strongholds. . . She and I were at each other's throats. She constantly boasted about how she's the 'strongest warrior in all of Skyrim', and how nobody could defeat her." 

Rainbow Dash huffed in annoyance. "Can't say I blame you. I hate it when some ponies try and show off." Applejack and Daring Do both deadpanned upon hearing that remark.

"Oh hi Kettle, name's Pot. Have we met?" Ren beamed. However, this statement only seem to further perplex the cyan pegasi. "Forget it, Rainbow." He chuckled, which caused the others to chuckle, as well. "Anyway, this Orc lady  kept on boasting, and I told her to put her money where her mouth is.  Legate Rikke agreed with me, and suggested that we settle it out in the courtyard."

So there was a fight before he joined, just to prove who was the better fighter, huh? Daring pondered. But who won? She tried painting a mental picture of the fight, and visualized a sweaty human. . . his muscles glistening in th- damnit Daring, stop thinking about that! You'll blow this chance! The audible of a farm pony clearing her throat, meant that it was time to tune back in.

"So Ah'm guessing that ya took her down easily?" Asked Applejack.

Ren shook his head in response, and he was rewarded with a faint gasp from the trio. "Actually, she was indeed one of the best warriors that I've ever spared with - if not the best. We were practically evenly matched - despite our difference in fighting style. She put my endurance to the test." The human went on to explain that the 'Orc' lady he fought was more of a slugger, while he is more of an out-boxer - relying on his quickness and longer range punches to wear down his opponents. He continued to explain what it meant to be an out-boxer, and all the advantages and disadvantages there are in this fighting style. How his punches aren't nearly as strong as most others with different styles, but instead, he traded raw power for more nimbleness, for faster blows. All the dodging, ducking and weaving to avoid being hit took a lot of constant endurance workout, and often he would get winded very easily. But so would his oppenents.

Resuming his pacing, he continued regaling his tale. "Two short weeks in Skyrim, and I can honestly say that she could back her words. After 9 rounds, the General declared us evenly matched - a draw. Needless to say, there were a lot of unhappy bidders that day in the courtyard." He lowered his gaze, and smiled. . . he was full of joy, reliving his story. "And we had a new found respect for one another." He concluded. But there must be more to it than that.

"So what happened next?" Daring questioned, almost sounding like a school filly who so badly wanted to know the ending of a sappy romance novel.

"Well, we teamed up; and together, we cleared out the bandits." He announced, saying that they made a contest out of their initiation; whoever 'downed' the most bandits would be the victor. It also ended in a draw. "Once the Fort was secured, we celebrated by helping ourselves to the ale and mead they had stored away. . . We. . . ended up holding a tie breaker, later that evening in the barracks."

Rising his head, he fixed his gaze unto his guests, and stated with a sheepish smile, "That was the second time my endurance was put to the test, that day." He finished with a subtle chuckle.

And in that moment, Daring's grin grew wider. And now that she knows that he is already accustomed to what she has in stores for him, all she has to do is make a subtle suggestion and BAM! Glancing at her 'partners in crime', she noticed that their expressions were the same as her own. They were ready. Daring made her move.

"It sounds like you're still carrying some tension. Maybe we can help you get rid of it." She said in a sultry voice.

"I. . .uh. . .didn't think you'd feel like sparring." Ren's sounded shocked. Maybe he knew what they were intending to do.
Then, as one, they made their move, and advances on him. 

"How about we skip to the the breaker?" Asked Rainbow Dash, mimicking her fellow pegasus with a sultry voice. She positioned herself to his left side, as the farm pony made her way to his right.

"We can put yer endurance 'to the test', sugarcube." Applejack declared with as much sultry as Daring and Rainbow. The light gold coated pegasus could see with her bedroom eyes that the human was blushing really, really, REALLY hard.

"O-oh! I-I-I. . . I didn't. . . hmmm." Ren stood in attention for what felt like a few minutes. Like he was contemplating whether if it would be okay to proceed with. . . this. "No strings attached? This would just be a fling?" He asked.

"Hehe," Daring chuckled at his response. "Sure, no strings. No repercussions. Just the four of us, having some fun." At this cue, Rainbow and Applejack brushed up against his sides, causing him to tense up and his blush to become a deeper shade of crimson. He shift his gaze from one ponybto the other, still humming to himsielf. Daring approached ever closer so as to embrace him in a gentle hug. She lift her good to his face, and marveled at how soft his face us. "Just replace colt."

Ren nodded, like he was agreeing to this. "Alright, I'll do it." He finished with a devilsih smirk. "On one condition."

"Name it, big guy." Rainbow muttered, while slowly dragging him over to the bed. AJ aligned herself to be in front, and raised up on her hind legs, giving him a gentle shove. He flopped down on the mattress, still bearing that smirk. 

"This stays between us, alright?" 

"Ah think we can handle rhat, lover boy." Applejack declared. 

"Actually," Daring spoke up, and hovers over him. "I have a condition for you. One that I'm sure you'll agree to." She returned his devious smirk.

"Name it."

"We do this twice a month." Surprisingly, Ren accepted the term. "Good boy. . . now, get undressed." Daring's smirk never left her face, as she landed on his chest, claiming her prize.





Dawn of the next day


The sun shines brightly across the landscape, bringing life to the dismmle forest, and to that of Ponyville. At a lone quant shack on the edge of the Everfree forest, the front door opened.

"Whoa-nelly, that was amazin' partner." Applejack chimed. She exited the structure with a sultry expression, and a bit of a limp in her step. "Ah sure ain't gonna be apple buckin' fer a while."

"Yeah," Rainbow added, leaningagainst her new buck buddy for support, but mostly because he felt really nice and warm. "And I don't think I'll be flying straight for a couple of days."

"Hehe, glad you girls enjoyed yourselves." Ren laughed. He seem to be more relaxed, as well. From behind him, a pair of light golden hooves wrapped around his chest. Daring hummed in bliss, from last nights extravaganza. 

"Now remember, colt. We do this twice a month." Daring cooed into his ear, and she finished her reminder with a lick up his cheek, and one final pur to his ear, "Doctor Daring's orders. . ." He chuckled and thanked them all for an awesome night, and they thanked him for letting them stay for the night. Daring nuzzled him one last time before departing; she gave him bedroom eyes, saying that they'll see each other again in two weeks time. And indeed, they did. Two weeks after their first night, they met up - as they agreed; he became more and more relaxed, and became more socialble with the townsfolks. Every other day, Ren would go and hangout with RD and AJ, while the rest of the week he would spend time with Daring Do at his home. They would swap stories of their past adventures, and kept each other company. The weekends were dedicated to finding the wizards, and of course he would exercise daily; though not as extreme like he use to do. But as long as he was more relaxed than what he has been in the past few months, that is all that matters.

After all, its a mare's job to take care of her stallion. . . 

Whoa, wait a minute. MY stallion? Daring thought. Sure, he was amazing and they seem to share the same interests and passions, but to have sappy feelings for him? No Daring, you're not in love with him - only his body. He's an alien, Celestia damnit. . . Still, nopony is going to get between me and my treasure.




About a month later, Daring soared across the sky, on her way to see her favorite human. . . Okay, so Ren is the only human that she's ever met - but still, if she had met another human, Ren would still be her favorite one.

Images of their first night flashed through her mind; the way that he just kept going, while needing only a couple of minutes to rest up was impressive. Its too bad that RD and AJ couldn't join in on the last time, nor could they join her this time. Rainbow was off performing with the Wonderbolts, and Applejack was busy with chores at Sweet Apple Achers.

Its alright, just means more for me, Daring sniggered. 

As she drew nearer to his house, Daring haltered her advancement when she noticed something. Somepony was currently standing at the front door. Squinting her eyes, she saw that it was a light violet coated mare, with a perple main and tail, both sportting an aquamarine highlight.

Wait, She pondered. Why is Starlight here? Is she trying to get a piece of  MY action?!

Dashing towards a nearby cloud, she peered over its edge, looking down at the unsuspecting mare with great intent. a couple of minutes roll by, and nothing happens. That is, until the door opens, revealing a tired looking human. He must have gotten back to his long night research, again. That stupid, sexy colt. There would diffenitly be a hard lecture about this, once he gets rid of that other ma-

"Sorry about the mess," Ren's tiresome voice reached her ears. What is going on? Why hasn't he told her to buck off yet? was there something going on between them? If that's the case, then perhaps it would be best to leave. Or, perhaps Starlight was just delivering a message to him from Princess Twilight? Hang on, why is he letting her inside the house? Daring wanted to fly down there, and demand to know what was going on, but restrained herself; otherwise, such actions would not only hurt her image, it might also mean that he would back out of their agreement. So she decided it would be best to wait on the cloud, for the time being. She squeezed her hind legs together to prevent any liquids from dropping, while patiently waiting for something to happen. 

As she continue to wait for Ren to throw that damn mare out, Daring thought of all the possible reasons that could explain why Starlight would show up at his doorstep. When no answer came to her, she groaned in frustration and discomfort. The aching from her nether region was starting to become unbearable. She NEEDED him.

Suddenly the door opened. coming outside, Starlight was trotting next to Ren, and the duo proceeded to head back to Ponyville.

Oh, come on! Daring sneered mentally. Looking down at them, she noticed that Starlight was looking up, either at him or at the sky. It was kind of hard to tell. Being as stealthy as a cat when its on the hunt, the adventurous mare followed them - determined to see wherethis bucking mare was taking her prize.




Three hours. Three hours of watching them. In that time, Daring had followed them back into town, over to the 'Carousel Boutique', where they had tea with Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and. . . Princess Twilight? A while after they started dringking their tea, Rarity and Starlight - Bitch, as daring would call her, went upstairs. But they weren't the only ones to go upstairs either. Ponyville's resident party pony was already in the room - masquerading as one of those mannequins, and was completely unnoticed by either of them. A few minutes later, she emerged from her hidding place, startling the two unicorns, while screaming something about Starlight having a crush on 'Renny'. Did. . . she mean. . . Ren? Daring thought that would be competely ridiculous. Oh sure, he is quite arguably the best buck anypony could ever ask for, but to be in love? With an alien? 

Even though he is rather easy on the eyes, and. . . is also a fellow adventure, who constantly gets into danger, which only adds to his charms. And yes, there is the fact that he is a very passionate lover.

Okay, I guess I can see the appeal in that, Daring thought. I mean, he is pretty awesome, and damn, he's got some nice features, too. Those withers, that well toned bod. . . that nice, firm flank. His face. . . those eyes. . . hmmm, maybe. . . wait- why am I thinking about this? He is only going to be here for a while, so its best to just be buck buddies.

Observing through another window, Daring noticed that Ren was creeping up on the door to the room that the trio of mares were currently in. was he spying on them? After a couple of minutes, she returned her attention to the trio, and was just in time to see the pink terror put a filing cabinet into her mane, and Starlight holding a rolled up scroll. Probably a spell or something to use on the human.

Speaking of whom, She pondered. Let's see if I - huh? When she returned her gaze back to where she had last seen him, he was gone. where the buck did he go? She eventually found him, seating back down with Fluttershy and Twilight, like he was always there. How the buck did he move so quick?

After the tea party, Ren and Star-Bitch-light went to the park, and Daring watched as he did his workouts in public. Do all humans workout in broad daylight? She wondered. She continued to watch them from afar, when she noticed that the unicorn was having trouble talking to him. What were they talking about? If only she could move in closer, without being seen. But she could smell her own musk, and if she could then so could Starlight - and probably Ren too, if his noes is sensitive. So being up in the clouds would be the best course of action for her, for the time being.

Her continual observation of them went on, with no dramatic changes. Sweet Celestia, just watching him with somepony else frustrated her to no end; as much as she wanted to fly down and give them both a piece of her mind, she had to maintain her composure. Besides, it would only be a matter of time before he gives in to his urges, and returns to his home. But suddenly, and without warning, Starlight was on him. She. . . kissed him?! And he wasn't shoving her away?!

Okay, screw this! she mentally barked, and dashed down to the shrubbery near where they were. Peaking through the bush, she watched them both - glaring at them. True, there was the chance that Bitchlight or Ren could pick up her scent, but it didn't matter. Right now, she needed to know what was going on. After a few seconds, the unicorn moved away from him, but didn't go away. It seems that Ren was holding her in place; perhaps to yell at her. 

Heh, bitch deserves it too.

"What the hell was that?!" He broke the silence.

Aaaaaannnnnd here we go, Daring cheered to herself. All she needed was some popcorn and the show would be much more enjoyable. Starlight's stuttered words were so muffled, it was hard to pick up what she was trying to say, except for the ever-so pathetic, "I'm sorry. . . I should go. . ." In a way, Daring almost felt sorry for her. But , then again, bitch shouldn't have stolen her treasure. So now it was just a matter of time befo-

"Why. . . why are you still. . . holding me?" She heard Starlight speak up, on the verge of crying. Why was he still holding her?

"I. . . I don't know. Why did you kiss me?" Ren asked. Strangely, there was no hint of anger within his voice; why wasn't there? Starlight muttered something that neither she, nor the human, could pick up. Starlight tried to break free from him, but he wouldn't let go. Instead, he lifted her chin up when she looked down dejectedly; now they were looking directly into each others eyes.

"Star. . . what's going on?" Was he showing concern for her? "I know that you wouldn't simply do something irrational for no reason."

Starlight flared up, "FINE! I LIKE YOU, OKAY?!" Daring was startled by this sudden outburst. The thief just admitted her feelings to what was suppose to be HER buck buddy. Not Starlight's - HERS!

She tuned out, and genially ignored all of the sappy crap, and waited for him to leave. But that never happened. Why? Was he actually considering on being with her? 

But what about me? Daring whimpered. Doesn't he want to keep on being buck buddies? I mean, come on! At least I didn't steal the cutie marks from hundreds of ponies, and tried to end all of existence, just because some friend abandoned me! I'm a national hero! I'm a well known celebrity, and a multi-best selling author, for Celestia's sakes! She vented. Eventually though, her anger subsided, thanks to some breathing techniques. Relax, Daring. There's still the chance that he could reject her. It would be for the best, anyway, since he would end up leaving. It would spa-

"Just roll with it?" Ren chuckled. "I didn't. . . hmmm. . . I never knew that you had a thing for tattooed, renegade freaks." The human's words entered Daring's ears, forcing her to tune back into their conversation.

Wait, what all did I miss?

"You being different doesn't really matter to me." Starlight continued to mention something about Rarity and somepony named Spike. Not really important. What was important is that he puts her down, and heads home, so that Daring ca-

"Well. . . Why the hell?" Daring heard the human speak aloud. What is he doing? "I mean, there are few other ponies that I respect more than you."

Daring's jaw unhinged. IS HE ACTUALLY DOING THIS?!

"And. . . if this is what you really want, and we can figure out how to make it work, then. . . Yeah. Definitely."

As she watched the two of them lock lips, Daring's world came undone. Her buck buddy, her human, her tattooed, renegade freak. . . was taken away. She knew better than to get in between a relationship. Disturbed, and surprisingly broken hearted, Daring flew dejectedly into the air, leaving behind what was once her treasure. . .
> Living After Midnight (clop)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Good boy," Daring sensual voice entered my ears, as she hovered above me. "Now, get undressed."

I sat on my bed, with a sheepish blush plastered on my face, and my heart threatening to burst out from my chest. When I had only just arrived in Equestria, finding a pony sexually attractive was not on my list of priorities - nor was 'easing tension' with a pony. Let alone three of them. Back at home, or in Tamriel, what I was about to do would be a huge taboo; but after being amongst them for the past five months or so, I've come to accept the facts that these creatures have needs and wants, just as you or I. So what harm could there be in becoming better 'acquainted' with them?

Though, I will admit, this is a bit strange. Despite the fact that I've known these three for a few months, its still pretty difficult seeing past the fact that they resemble animals - ignoring the fact that they are sentient.

Still, they were willing to help me, so the least that I could do is indulge them. Who knows? Maybe I'll find some enjoyment out of this?

I reached down to the waist of my sweat pants, preparing to remove the garments, while keeping my eyes on the voluptuous pegasi above me, not wanting to avert my gaze. The instant that I reached for my sweat pants, however, I felt a couple of hooves press down on my hands.

Looking down, I was greeted with the sight of both Applejack and Rainbow Dash grinning from ear to ear. Seems that they have plans of their own. What are they planning to do?

"Now, don't ya worry none," Applejack's alluring farmers voice sent shivers down my spine, and throughout the nerves in my member.

"We'll take good care of you, big guy." Rainbow added in. Her voice sounding just as sexual as the others. Okay, at this point, I'm a little turned on. The growing buldge in my pants being clear evidence that I'm raring to go.

But there was just one small problem; I doubt that any of then could undo the buckles on my boots. Brushing their hooves off of me, I leaned down to undo the straps and buckles of my leather boots, and kicked them off of my feet.

Feeling a tap on my shoulder, I leaned back up to come face to face with a certain archaeologist; her rosy irises seem to burn with passion. She cups my cheek with a hoof.

"Lay down and relax, colt." She purred in my ear with a deep desire - a want. I did as I was ordered, and surrendered myself to their will. The seductive adventuring mare descended upon me, albeit slowly; her alluring gaze fixated on me, as she hummed in delight and licked her lips seductively, which only added to my arousal.

Once she landed, she straddled around my waist, and slowly began to grind her hips, chuckling. I could feel a dampness around my crotch, and the air had a certain musk; its tangy, yet sweet and almost smells like rain clouds. Daring's rocking motions gradually picks up in pace, and her blushing deepens; suddenly, she gasps, her eyes widening, and her grinding came to a halt.

"O-oh my," Daring yelped. "Somepony has a present for us, girls."

At this subtle cue, Applejack and Rainbow Dash began tugging on my pant leggings. The grunts and groans they uttered told me that the feisty mares were having trouble. Chuckling inwardly, I aided them by grabbing both my sweat pants and the elastic band of my boxers, and slid them past my now fully erected cock. The ponies at my legs managed to get my clothings off, and one at a time, they took their turns at sniffing it; the bed shook, indicating that at least one of them climbed up to join me and Daring.

"Hmmm, you sure are mighty big, sugarcube." Applejack cooed softly. She must have gripped my shaft with her hoof, because the nerves within it started to twitch. How any of the ponies without magic can grab a hold of something with just their hooves is beyond me, and honestly, I don't care.

Daring lowered herself to bring her muzzle closer to my face. Taking her time,she slowly closed her eyes - as well as the distance between us, while opening her mouth slightly. I mimicked her actions, feeling nervous as hell; this would be my first time kissing a pony. How much different would it from kiss-

"AHHH!" I gasped out in pure bliss, and threw my head back. My vision blurred, as I panted heavily, jerking my hips up from feeling something wet around the length of my cock. Whatever it is, I can feel it all around it, wettening my member from the top to the bottom; the combined giggling from my lower region tells me that the others are having their fun.

"Take it easy, big guy." Rainbow's raspy voice reached my ears. She hummed, and I could feel my member vibrate from this. What is going on?

Leaning off to the side to look past Daring,  I beheld the actions that the athlete and the farm pony were doing; they were each taking turns licking the shaft, or running their mouths up and down, coating my cock with their saliva. The pair continued with their sexual foreplay for a while longer, unaware that i was watching them. Eventually they became aware; and the grins that the pair have me made me even harder. Then, the unthinkable occurred. . . With their hooves wrapped around my length, they stroked it - gently at first, but gradually picked up in pace.

"O-oh m-my," I could not speak without stuttering, and as they continued their onslaught, I threw my head back further into the mattress, panting like a dog. It just felt so good. My edge was slowly approaching. 

"Enjoying yourself?" Rainbow asked. No answer could be provided - I was lost in a wave of sexual pleasure. "Well, you just relax and enjoy yourself. You've got your 'hands' full. . ." She purred, and finished with a flick of her tongue around the tip, lapping up the small bits of precum.

"Let me try some of that, partner." The farmer pony asked. Looking back again, I witnessed the pair intertwining their tongues around one another's. My room - hell, my entire house - came to life with the music of their moaning. This went on for a while, their moans intensified the longer they kissed and foreplayed each other, until finally Applejack pulled away. She put a hoof to her chin, and thought for a moment. "Hmmm, ya sure do taste good, sugarcube."

"I . . . I - hmph!" I tried to speak up, but I was interrupted by a pair of light golden furred lips being pressed against mine. The fur of Daring's lips tickled a bit. The pegasi pressed deeper against me, kissing me with a fiery passion. My breathing increased the longer we remained locked.

A few moments past by, and Daring parted away from me - breaking the kiss; her panting was just as heavy as mine. Rainbow and Applejack resumed their constant licking on my erection, making the nerves within twitch. I gripped the bed sheets tightly, feeling my edge rapidly approaching. I was about to cum!

But suddenly, and without warning, everything just stopped. . . Why? The mares just stopped licking me, and they were no longer stroking my member. And so my climax slowly dwindled into nothing, and my cock throbbed, as if demanding release. A release that never came.

"Why did yo-" I immediately halted my question, as I beheld the view in front of me. A rather bubbly rump, jiggling within inches of my face, and Holy Hell. . . Juicy, wet lips. Some of Daring's marejuicies started to trail down from her winking pussy, on to my chest. Again, her scent filled my nostrils, overloading my scenses and it drove me wild.

"Enjoying the view?" Daring snickered. She continued to shake her hips in front of me, causing more of her juices to land on me. As I lay there, being showered by Daring's waterworks, I moved my hands to grab her flanks; squeezing her flanks firmly, I brought her pussy closer to my face - licking my lips in the process.

She lets out a small gasp the instant that I dragged my tongue slowly up her slit. Yeah, giving a pony oral sex; totally not weird at all, but damn does she taste good. Her entire body quivered from my tongue probbing the depths of her vagina - as I tried to find that one spot that would make her scream and beg for more. Her love juices filled my mouth to the brim. 

She squirmed in my grasp, letting loose a barrage of moans and gasps. I think I've found her spot. And as I assaulted the depths of her marehood, she enveloped my cock in her mouth, wrapping her own tongue around the shaft. In rhythm of me licking her wet pussy, she started bobbing up and down. Her humming vibrated my shaft and nearly caused me to ease up on the task at hand. Yet I persevered, my unabating oral assault of her soaking wet marehood went on, and I became fully addicted to her juices. All the while, my ears were filled with the sounds of her gagging around my shaft.

"Hey Dashie," Applejack spoke up.

"Yeah AJ?"

"Let's have some fun." Her voice sounded a bit sinister. What could they be planning? Oh well, I'm a bit busy.

I probbed as far as I could, my tongue getting tired. But at last, i was rewarded for my efforts; one last prob provided me with her halting her bobbing, and at last I heard her muffle a scream. I had finally found her weak spot. But instead of relentlessly poking at it until she could no longer stand it, I had something else in mind for her. 

I stopped my assault on her pussy, and wrapped my lips around her clit, sucking it - causing Daring to let out yet another muffled scream. Oh yeah ~ she like that.

She squirmed and quivered more violently than before, her muffled voice vibrating around my dick; the pegasus gyrated her hips, coating my entire face with her fluids. She must be nearing her climax for her to-

"Hmph!" I let out a yelp, but with a mouth full of Daring's cooch, it became muffled. Something was happening around my sack. Whatever it was, it felt like someone was sucking on my balls. Not once has this ever happened, yet strangely it felt amazing. This was bliss in its purest form. With the relentless onslaught on my member AND sack, my cock started to swell and throb; I could feel that familiar sensation building up again.

Releasing Daring's clit, I gasped and sucked in as much air as I could. "Gah! Girls, I'm getting close!"

Taking that as a signal, each of them worked even harder, doubling their efforts to get me to cum. Well, I won't be the only one to climax. Taking a large gulp of air, I resumed my unfinished work on Daring's slit, lapping up as much of her nectar as possible - probbing her depths to her weak spot, again, trying to hold on; I clinched all of my muscles, in an attempt to will myself not to cum until she does first.

My tongue was becoming very sore and tired, but the gyrating plot on my face indicated that it wouldn't be long now. Just a little longer, damnit.

I gave one final, long lick, and she muffled yet another scream. A wave of Daring's marehood juices washed over my face, and into my mouth; she was cumming, her back legs clamping around my head. And I wasn't far behind either.

Right on cue, I released my load inside her mouth. Thick ropes of my seed quickly filled her mouth, and yet even with all the spurts of cum, she did not release my cock. Instead, she swallowed every last drop. The adventuring mare collapsed on top of me, still quivering as she rode out her orgasm high.

"How does he taste, sugarcube?" Applejack inquired. Daring panted, trying to catch her breath, and offered the farm pony with a sheepish grin.

"huff. . .huff. . . he tastes. . .amazing." Daring managed to say. With some reserved energy, she struggled to stand up. Her legs trembled and threatened to cave in on her. She turned around slowly, and collapsed on me, once more. Her head resting on my chest, directly over my heart. My erection started to become flaccid. 

The scent of apples filled the air. From behind me, Applejack laid beside my head, and ran a hoof through my hair. Damn, this feels nice. Then I heard the sound of someone else moving up towards me.

Rainbow Dash curled around me, and started rubbing my shoulders. It took all the will power I could muster to force myself to not fall asleep. But damn, sleep sounded really good. Then again. . .

"Feelin' more relaxed, colt?" Daring asked, nuzzling me. Yes, granted, this service did indeed help me to relax. However, now that I've gotten a sample - a taste - of what these little ponies could do, I wanted to experience more. Maybe even show them a good time, as well. 

I wrapped my arms around her, and gently stroke her mane, hearing her sigh in contentment. A thought came to me; since this whole thing started with them asking me questions and getting to know me a bit more, why not do the same?

"So," I began, trying not to sound as mischievous as possible. "Is this something you girls do for all the guys that are stressed out?" The mares giggled, and then grew silent. Like they were each waiting for one of the others to speak first. 

"No," Applejack started. "Ah can't speak fer Rainbow or Daring, but Ah ain't never done. . . this before." She finished with a heavy sigh. "Most of the times, Ah'm busy with chores. Doesn't mean that Ah've never gotten better acquainted with a stallion before."

"Yeah," Rainbow added. "Never done a group fling before, though I've thought about it." She blushed. I'd wager that Applejack blushed, as well. 

"Well," Daring spoke. "Since we're sharing, I've had a few stallions. . . and yes, at the same time." Her voice didn't have any trace of gilt. Like she didn't care if she would be judged. 

"Were you the only mare during those flings?" I inquired. Daring lifted her head to meet my gaze. 

"Yeah," she admitted. "Most stallions don't last for very long, and when they're done, it kills the mood because they don't keep going." This news caused me to chuckle, as I grinned - almost maniacally.

"What are yo-" Daring yelped, as I held on to her, and rolled over - flipping her on her back; my sudden movement caused her wings to become stiff again. The others let out a gasp, seeing me pin Daring beneath me.

Their shocked expressions told me that none of them were expecting such an action. I gave a toothy grin, as I towered over my helpless victim. What they helped me experience, I intended to offer back in ways that they couldn't comprehend. 

"W-w-what are you doing, colt?" Daring sounded rather frightened. Better ease up a bit. 

"I think it would be rather obvious." I remarked, pointing down towards a certain part of me. 

Her eyes widened - as did AJ's and RD's - as they averted their gazes down my body, and came to rest at my shaft. No longer flaccid or limpy, but now hardened back up as it was earlier, throbbing with pride. Daring's coat had a very strong shade of red around her cheeks. 

"But how?" Rainbow asked. "Most stallions don't last for this long!" I chuckled at her remark.

"In case you haven't noticed, Rainbow, I'm not a stallion." To prove that I was ready for another round, I slowly started rocking my hips - hotdoging my hardened prick between Daring's wet lips, which elected her to whimper and moan from what little pleasure she was receiving. Through clenched teeth, I whispered, "I. Want. More."

Daring's body tensed up. But then I felt her moving her hips to match my small rhythm. As I backed away, I hissed through my teeth, upon feeling one of her back hooves rub up and down my cock. Once she was done with her attempt at foreplay, she hummed in delight, and grinned wolfishly at me.

"So," she spoke, her voice no longer as timid, but voluptuous - hungrily, even, for more. "Are you ready to put your endurance 'to the test', soldier?" There was something about the way that she said that line that ignited a fire within me; I felt a. . . desire - a need - to see this to the end. The very thought of being buried deep within her - within all of them - made my dick twitched with excitement. And the more that I continued on that thought, the more my dick would twitch.

"Ma'am, yes ma'am." I murmured, while stifling a chuckle from this erotic army role-play. Daring spread her back legs further apart, releasing more of her musk. That awoke something more primal inside me; yet, I hesitated. It was like there was a tiny voice in the back of my mind, telling me that if I do this, there will be no going back. Maybe. . . maybe this was a bad idea.

A couple of hooves placed on my back sent a jolt through my naked form. From behind me, Applejack and Rainbow Dash both offered looks that said, 'go for it'. Almost made me believe that they could sense what I was feeling, and they decided to offer some encouragement. They lowered their hooves down to the middle of my back, inches above my ass; they applied enough pressure to make me move forward, inch by inch. 

Looking down, I aligned my shaft to the entrance of my prize: her glistening pussy. My earlier work should have prepped her, but there was only one way to tell. I popped the head of my cock in, but waited until she was comfortable with it before going to town. She gasped at the intrusion, but shortly after, barked orders for me to pound her. Well, best not keep her waiting. Except, there was one small issue. Even with the earlier prep work, she was still incredibly tight!

As I tried easing my way in, the other mares applied more pressure, and I was forced to shove my girth the rest of the way inside her. She screamed in painful pleasure; guess she must like it rough. 

Daring's pussy gripped around me like a vice, that I figured it must have been a while since she last had sex. I manage to sheeth myself all the way inside her - our hips colliding. She moaned from being full, as she arched her back and began to motion her hips a little. The instant that I tried to pull back, however, the feisty pegasus wrapped her hind legs around my waist - trying to prevent me from leaving.

"Hmph. . . D-damn," I manage to stutter. "You're really tight." I began to grunt, more out of pain then pleasure. Should have known that pony pussies would be even tighter than most of the others I've had. Again, I tried to pull out of her grasp, but to no avail. Alright, if I couldn't pull out, then I'll just improvise. Moving my hands, I grabbed hold of her flanks, causing her to moan some more, and then I started to move backwards, until I reached the edge of the bed, with her still holding on to me. 

Standing on the palms of my feet, I spread her legs apart. And in that moment, I used the leverage that I had to my advantage. I pulled out slowly, causing some discomfort to Daring; it almost felt like her marehood had tightened around me, in order to keep me inside her. But once I shoved myself back in, she loosened up, and cried out in pure bliss.

Slowly at first, I repeated my movement, picking up speed and power of my thrusts. Pounding her with nearly all of my vigor; it was her wish for me to 'buck her hard', and I wasn't about to disappoint, but I also wanted to make sure that she enjoy every second of it.

"O-oh m-m-my Celestia!" She screamed in estcy. "D-DON'T STOP! RUT ME HARD REN!" Her words made me feel more energized, as I resumed my continual thrusting; I could feel the depths of her marehood spread to accommodate my girth. And with each thrust, more of her juices had seeped out of our union and was now drenching my sheets. So the pattern repeated itself - with me slowly exiting out and thrusting my erection back into her with a bit more force than before. Each time I thrusted harder and harder, Daring would scream loudly. Glad I don't have neighbors. 

"Enjoying yourself?" Rainbow asked. The adventuring mare couldn't reply with a proper answer. Her only response were lust filled moans and gasps. 

"Well partner," AJ said. "Mind if Ah have a ride?" There was something about her question that seemed to be more. . . malicious. The farm pony licked her lips in anticipation, and the look in her eyes showed a side of her that I honestly thought never to have existed. This was not the Applejack that I had come to know in such a brief time, but rather a mare who had succumb to her lustful desires. 

"W-wha - HMPH!" Daring's attempted to speak, but an orange plot sitting down on her face put a stop to that. The farm pony mounted her face, practically enveloping the pegasi's muzzle with her marehood.

"Unf. . . H-havin' fun, lover boy?" Applejack asked. I nodded fiercely. This was by far the best pussy I've ever felt. "Unf, good. Now - unf - y'all just keep at - hmph!" Suddenly, Applejack began to quiver, and was at a complete loss for words, as she moaned in delight. 

Leaning forward, she wrapped her forehooves around my neck; at first, I thought that she was leaning on me for support, but a quick glance down revealed the true reason; Daring was literally shoving her whole muzzle into AJ's cooch, eating her out. Applejack's breathing intensified, her hot breath just inches from my ears, while my own breathing increased as well. With her face so close, and lust as my ally, I pressed my lips to hers - and instinctively probbed her mouth with my tongue. Her hold around me increased, as she playfully wrapped her tongue around mine.

Parting away to catch our breaths, I noticed that a certain cyan pegasus was touching herself - rubbing her clit with a hoof. Rainbow's face had a bright crimson blush, which only grew when she noticed that I was watching. She was probably at it for a while - her vagina was dripping, and now there was another wet spot on my covers. I gasped as AJ pressed her snout to my neck, and was sucking on my flesh - leaving bite marks, and taking me by surprise. An evil idea was beginning to form in my mind; I stopped my motions, earning a loud and annoyed groan from both Daring and Applejack. 

"What in tarnation did y'all stop fer?!" The farm pony snapped at me. My only compliance was a smirk and a wink. 

"Can't leave Dashie out on all the fun, now can we?" There was an awkward silence for a few seconds, followed by a rather michivious grin from Applejack. She got off of Daring - revealing a face covered in fluids, and a very heavy blush. 

The light golden furred pegasi panted loudly, and offered me a wink in approval. Applejack instructed Rainbow Dash to lay down above Daring. The brash pony did as she was instructed, laying down on the pillows, and waited in anticipation, covering her face with her hooves.

Moments later, Applejack retook her previous position - straddling Daring Do's face. Except this time, she was facing away from me, and was now looming over her new target. Lowering her head, her tongue sticking out of her mouth, the orange earth pony drove her head forward and proceeded to lick up and down on RD's winking pussy.

"Mmmm. . . AJ. . . Ohmygosh, this feels awesome!" The cyan pegasus squealed and squirmed uncontrollably.

I gave them a few seconds to enjoy themselves, lapping each other up as much as possible, before I thrusted back into Daring. She let out a gasp at the sudden movement, but resumed to enjoy some of applejack's cooch. With each thrust I provided, it caused the mares to moan even louder than before. I watched - mesmerized - as they continued to eat each other out. 

Soon, my room came alive with the sounds of their lustful moans, as they practically drowned each other out. Because of this, and having a nice view of Applejack's firm, yet bubbly rump, AND seeing Daring licking and sucking on her clit, it only helped to build up tension in my cock. I could feel my edge rapidly approaching again. 

"Gah! Girls, I can't - unf - hold on - unf - much longer!" I belowed. In that instant, Daring wrapped her hind legs around my waist,  once more. Her message was very clear; within a few moments - just a few short moments which felt so much longer - I gave her what she wanted. As soon as I unloaded a thick spurt of cum inside her, her walls clamped around me. She was cumming. 

Daring screamed loudly though it was mostly muffled thanks to AJ's marehood. Applejack began to shake uncontrollably from the oral pleasure she was receiving, as was Rainbow. After a few moments, Applejack rolled off of Daring, and laid flat on her back. Each of us were panting like dogs, drenched in sweat and cum. But I never removed myself from Daring's quivering marehood. Her pussy clung tightly to me, as she rode out her orgasm, milking me for more of my seed.

"So. . ." I attempt to speak through heavy panting, desperate to fill my lungs with much needed air. "Who else. . . wants. . . a turn?" The mares' only response was awkward silence, followed by snickering.

"Hoowee," Applejack chuckled. "Ren, y'all sure know how ta sweet talk a gal." We shared some more laughs for a while, before the orange earth pony volunteered for the next ride. 

Reluctantly, I pulled out of Daring's warm velvety embrace, causing her to pout at the sudden emptiness. Her winking marehood overflowed with cum that slowly leaked onto my mattress.

The farm pony positioned herself in front of me, her well rounded flank facing me. To entice me further, she wiggled her hips, making her butt cheeks jiggle a bit. The orange mare looked over her shoulder, and I could see her smiling at me in a way that just seem to make her sexier. Wrapping my arms around her mid section, I repositioned her to the edge of the bed, and instructed Daring to lay in front of AJ, while RD straddles her face.

As they get into position, I slowly jerked myself using the juices from Daring that coated my cock. I'm a bit sensitive, but I wanted to show them all a good time. "Ya ready, lover boy?" Applejack impatiently asked, her voice sounding rather alluring. I ran my hands along her orange coat, her luscious flanks molding within my palms. 
As I continued to playfully massage her flank, Applejack lowered her head down to Daring's glistening pussy, and probbed it with her tongue - electing a seductive moan from the pegasus, who was also stuffing her face with Rainbow's cooch. The prismatic pegasi squirmed with delight. An idea comes to mind. . . And I smile at the thought. 

Raising a hand up, I brought it down hard - smacking her on her plot and leaving her orange coat a bit more red than usual. Applejack yelped at the contact, arching her back upwards, and stifled out a loud moan.

"Oh, you like that don't you?" I asked, smirking at her. Applejack whimpered a bit, but gave me a look with those piercing green orbs.

"D-do that again, sugarcube." Applejack practically begged.

SMACK

A second loud crack echoed across the room, as my hand smacked her directly on her cutie mark. Figuring that she would be just as tight as Daring Do, I decided that some prep work would be best. Plus I wanted to know how she would taste.

Using my fingers, I probbed the depths of her waiting marehood; a whimper of bliss escaped from the apple farmer, as she wiggled in my grasp. Slowly at first, I plunged my middle finger up to my knuckle, bending it inside her, as I tried finding her g-spot, much like with Daring. She whimpered some more from being fingered, and moved her hips in rhythm to my handiwork. 

Her juices flowed and coated my finger, but after a few moments, I found it - her spot. The orange mare let out a series of whimpers, moans, and gasps until finally she yelled out in pure bliss.

"O-o-oh Sweet Celestia!" Applejack cried out. Her rocking motions caused some of her fluids to spill onto my sheets, while a large amount coated parts of my hand. "S-s-sugarcube, ye're makin' me feel hot!" 

The sweet scent of apples filled my nostrils,  as a wicked smile dawned my face. I removed my digit from her warm, velvety vagina - much to AJ's disapproval - and inserted it in my mouth. Wrapping my tongue around it, I cleaned off the juices that had coated my finger, and got a sample of how she tasted. Should have guessed that she would taste like apples.

The taste of her overloaded my tastebuds, and I craved more of it - it was so intoxicating. I hesitated only briefly, then grabbing her flanks, I gave her a long lick, lapping up as much of her juices as I could. Applejack panted very lightly,enjoying the attention she was receiving. 

"S-sugarcube, Ah - GAH!" She attempted to speak, but was cut off; redoing my earlier deeds, I probbed her pussy with my tongue, rolling my tongue around inside her to reach her g-spot. A few slow licks later, the farmer pony backed her plot further into my face - almost fully enveloping me.

The strong scent of apples overwhelmed my senses, and my tongue began to go numb, and still I craved more. Applejack's fluids filled my mouth, while her desperate - yet muffled - cries reached my ears. She must be getting close. I reached down to her entrance, and began to feel around for her clit. 

She screamed as loud as she could the instant she felt her clit being rubbed between my fingers. Most likely because this was something that she - nor other ponies I'm guessing - could ever do with hooves. Suddenly, she leaned forward, gasping for air, and begged me to rut her.

I stood straight, placing my hands on her bubbly flanks right on her cutie marks, and took aim; I inhaled slowly through clinched teeth, as I entered her from behind. Once the tip was inside of her pussy, I shoved the rest of my girth inside, until I had fully buried my cock in her dripping vagina. Applejack cursed incoherently from being penetrated, and sucked in a huge amount of air. She clinched up every muscle in her body, trying to get comfortable. And I was right - Applejack was incredibly tight, just like Daring. Her inner walls clamped down on me like a vice. I almost exploded from just entering her!

"Oooooh yeeeaaah!" I grunted. She felt very hot inside. I told them all that I need a minute before moving, but they need not wait on me to have their fun. I had the best spot to watch them resume their pussy licking. Listening to the sounds of their moans and gasps, and watching such an erotic display of two of them licking at the others pussies or sucking on their clits only added to my arousal. 

The nerves within my pulsing erection began to dwindle, but the heat of Applejack's marehood kept me hard as a rock. It pulsated inside her, making her whimper a bit more.

"R-R-Renn" she stuttered. "Yer gettin' harder, sugar - GAH!" Her little nickname was interrupted by yet another smack across her ass. Slowly, I pulled out, despite her clenching her flank muscles in an attempt to keep me in. I pulled out just to the point of the tip. And in a quick motion, I thrusted all the way back in - sheathing my length fully back inside her welcoming marehood.

Once I fully encased myself deep inside her, Applejack let out a small gasp of delight. Somepony likes it rough, it seems. With a grunt, I pulled back out, before quickly shoving back in once more and causing the farm pony to squeal in pleasure. 

This was, by far, the best that I've had in a long, long while. These mares. . . they felt just as good as some of the human women I've been with, if not better.

As I continued to enjoy the feeling of her warm wet pussy around me, I started to pick up the pace, fucking her harder and faster. Her inner walls gripped me tightly, and her plot rippled the more I slammed her from behind. The movement only caused the mares to moan and gasp even more, but Applejack practically bellowed in painful pleasure.

The more and more I continued thrusting in and out, her pussy began to losen up, and Applejack hollered out, "Ren, keep buckin' me. Ah'm gettin' close! Make me cum!" What a dirty mouth she has. I grinned maliciously, and picked up the pace - fucking her with reckless abandon. Sweat poured off of every inch of my body, all of my muscles were getting sore and - addmitedly - I was becoming tired, physically. Also, my eardrums were taking a constant beating from all of the screaming coming from these sex crazed mares. In fact, Applejack was screaming a lot more than before. Then it hit me; she was cumming! I had made her cum. And I wasn't close yet. Choosing to allow her a brief moment to recover, I slowed my pace a -

"C-c-cum fer me, lover boy." Applejack called out to me, tirely. So much for that moment of recovery. This mare as asking -  no, demanding - that I finish inside her. . . And I wanted the same.

I dug my fingernails into her flanks, causing her to yelp, as I continued to pleasure her while she resumed pleasuring Daring. Looking over at the two pegasi, I could see that they were both squirming uncontrollably. They must be getting close. Good, because I wasn't going to last much longer, either. 

Grunting, I picked up the pace to what it was, and thrusted with every bit of reserved energy that I had left, not wanting to disappoint my orange lover, or leave her wanting. Her walls tightened around me, despite her earlier orgasm. Then finally, I could feel that familiar pressure build up within me - as my cock throbbed and swelled.

SMACK

One last spank across her nice well rounded plot, and Applejack started moving in rhythm with my thrusts. Her marehood clinched on my dick - trying to milk me for what she desperately wanted. 

A glance towards the others revealed Rainbow Dash panting for air, her tongue lolled out to the side of her mouth, as she neared her second orgasm. Daring, despite being on the verge of climaxing, proceeded to finish RD. Our hairs were saturated with sweat, and each of us were moaning loudly. I could feel it - the dam was about to. . . Oh. . . Gods!

"Aaah!" All of us cried out in unison, as we all released. A flash of white blinded my mind as I drove my cock into AJ's deepest depths; her quivering marehood overflowed quickly. A good amount of my seed seeped past my buried shaft, and oozed out of her, along with her own cum.

I became very dizzy, and stumbled backwards - my legs no longer able to support me. With all of my strength gone, I collapsed to the floor, panting through an opened mouth - trying to control my breathing. 

"Th. . . that. . . that was. . . wow." I managed to utter out a few incoherent words.

"Ren," one of them called out. "You were amazing." I'm lead to believe that it was Daring. Didn't care, I was more focused on getting air in my lungs. A few moments later, I managed to regain the use of my legs to the point where I could crawl. And that's what I did - crawled my way back to the bed.

"Here partner," an orange good reached out to me. Applejack helped me up off the floor and on to the mattress - while the others cleared a spot for me. I made a mental note to wash my sheets at a later date, as I felt a wet spot against my leg. 

Both Daring and Applejack cuddled up next to me, each taking a spot on my sides. I wrapped my arms around my lovers, and for the first time I noticed that Daring Do wasn't wearing her outfit, and AJ's mane wasn't tied up. They both looked kinda sexy in their current state, fully naked as me and with their hairs just as messy as mine each morning. Then that's when I noticed that something wasn't right.

"Uh. . . Where's Rainbow?" I asked aloud. I immediately heard the snickering of the brash prism maned pegasus.

And that's when I saw her - hovering above me. Her eyes were fixiated on one part of me, as she lowered herself down with a wicked grin plastered on her face. As she slowly dragged her tongue across her lips, I felt a shiver running down my spin; her intentions were clear.

"Got enough for one more go, big guy?" Rainbow's raspy voice entered my ears and sent another wave of shivers down my spin that slowly etched across my body. These mares are gonna kill me. . . What a way to go.

"Rainbow," I said through panting breaths. "Could I. . . please. . . have a few moments to rest up? My legs are pretty much dead." To make sure she understood my meaning, I pointed to my legs, which were nowhere near strong enough to go like that again.

This didn't seem to deter RD. She lowered herself slowly, until she straddled me. Bringing her mouth to my ear, she began to lick the area from my jaw to my earlobe. Her warm breath against my skin offered a hint to what she intends to do. She wanted a turn, and she was gonna get it one way or another. 

"Just lay there," she whispered her instructions in my ear. "And I'll take care of the rest." She finished her statement with one final lick at the same area. The tip of her tongue flicked my earlobe, sending shivers down to my limp prick. 

Sitting back up, Rainbow Dash started grinding her hips against me, coating my limp member with her marehood juices. I gasped out uncontrollably, due to the sensitivity of my now semi-hardened length. I wanted her to stop and allow me to rest up, but at the same time it felt soooo good. Her grinding reawokened my primal side, and hardened my cock once more. The more that the prismatic mare grinded, the more I would let out a moan or gasp, which must be like music to her ears. 

Without her knowing, I moved my hands up to her flanks and gave each wonderful mound a gentle squeeze; enticing Rainbow to softly moan in pleasure. She ended her grinding, and looked down at me with a sultry expression. Satisfied with the result, she chuckled and raised her plot a little, pressing the tip of my cock to her entrance. 

"Ready?" She asked softly. To be honest, not really. But I wasn't about to tell her that. I nodded and sucked in a lung full of air, bracing myself. Rainbow grinned, and slowly lowered herself down, enveloping my entire length inside her wet sex.

"Ahh!" We both gasped as my dick was buried deep inside of her. And while she was just as tight as the other two were, she was so wet that I slid inside her easily. I asked if she could wait for a bit while I recovered, to which she agreed.

"D-d-don't want you. . .hmph. . . blowing your load from just sliding in." She mocked me. I thanked her, and asked Daring and Applejack if they wanted to join in again.

"Nah," Daring replied. "I'm spent. You have your fun." She winked at me playfully, and nuzzled my shoulder. 

"Yeah," Applejack answered after Daring. "Ah'm good. You were amazin', sugarcube." The orange pony leaned in for a kiss. I pressed my lips against hers, opening my mouth slightly and slid my tongue out. She did the same. Our tongues explored each other's mouths, and we moaned into each other the longer we kissed. 

Suddenly, I felt a hoof tap me on my shoulder. Reluctantly, I pulled away from AJ's embrace, and turned my head. A certain archaeologist was giving me the bedroom eyes, beckoning me to embrace her as I had with AJ.

I complied, pulling her in for a long, near passionate kiss. And like with Applejack, I slid my tongue out - only for Daring to suck it into her maw. My eyes widened at this completely unexpected action. She wrapped her hooves around my head, pulling me even deeper into the kiss. I have to be honest, I didn't want this moment to end. My head was swimming in pleasure, and for a moment, I had forgotten about all of my cares and worries. This was all that mattered to me now.

But the grinding from Rainbow Dash ruined the moment for me. As she slowly circled her hips, her actions forced me to pull away from Daring and suck in a huge amount of much needed air. 

"O-oh, you feel so gooood." Rainbow cooed as she continue to enjoy herself. Daring and I remained silent, our eyes locked on to each other. I could see the red hues on her cheeks developing, as I'm sure she could see the same thing happening to me.

"Daring, I-" I started to speak, wishing to thank her and the others for all of this, but Daring placed a hoof gently on my lips, shushing me.

"No need for words now, colt." She whispered softly in my ear. "Youre not done yet. And here's a little hint for you." She began whispering her helpful tip to me, making sure that Rainbow Dash wasn't listening. Every now and then, RD would rock her hips a bit to stimulate herself, and it would always make me moan. Once Daring was done offering me her advice, she gave me one last quick peck on my lips and instructed me to enjoy this one last ride. 

Turning to face Rainbow, I gave her the 'okay to go' look, with a smirk that told her to 'show me what you got'. Rainbow lived for the competition and constantly boasted that she could do anything better than anyone else. With what I had already experienced, she has a lot to prove.

Her grinding instantly turned into bouncing, her inner walls clamping me tightly; I'm beginning to think that she's going to give me more than what I bargained for. As she bounced up and down on my shaft, her mane swayed with her movements, her mouth hung open with her tongue hanging out.

I moved my hands and placed them on her well toned, yet bubbly flanks, directly on her cutie mark, molding and gripping tightly the more she rode me. She smirked at me, and her face was now sportting a deep blush, and the fur around her face was matted with her sweat.

Our moans filled the silent room, and possibly the entire house. I'm glad I got to choose the location for my home, heh. Wouldn't want to have a talk with the entire town about a noice complaint. Rainbow's moans drowned out my own.

"Ren," the cyan athlet cried out. "B-B-Buck, you're. . . hmph. . . awesome!" Strange thing to hear while having my brains fucked out. Also, that was the first time she ever called me awesome before. I do believe that I've earned her respect.

SMACK

Rainbow yelped from the palms of my hands making contact upon her flanks. She let out a small whimper from the spank, and her eyes grew very wide. Maybe she doesn't like it? Only one way to find out.

SMACK

Again, I smacked her luscious flanks, causing her to yelp once more, but she also moaned in pleasure. I guess she does like it, heh. Her panting intensified, as did mine. I could feel my edge approaching for the fourth time, but from the feel of Rainbow's wet pussy, she was nowhere near done. Fearing that I wouldn't have the stamina for a fifth round, I enacted Daring's advice. But first. . .

SMACK

One last spank; one last yelp from this feisty pegasus. Then I quickly moved my hands, and reached out to grab her wings.

"Ahh!!" She yelled out. Gripping the base of her wings, I felt the muscles underneath her fur from years of constant dedicated workouts. She stopped bouncing on my shaft, and shivered from having her sensitve wings touched; seeing as how she was caught off guard, I took the oppurtunity to massage her wings.

This elected a more deeper toned moan - or rather a grunt. Pegasi's wings are extremely sensitive, and if what Daring Do had told me was true, then it wouldn't be long until -

"R-R-REN!" Rainbow screamed my name. Her vaginal walls gripped me even tighter, as if she were trying to milk me for what I have left.

"Ren, keep going! I'm almost there!" She begged me. I continued massaging her wings - from her base up to the tips, willing myself to hold on a little longer. Try as I might though, I just couldn't. Soon, I would cum inside her, and there was very little that I could do. In an attempt to make her climax first, I abandoned my work on her wings, and wrapped my arms around her neck, forcing her into a deep kiss. She must of expected me to do this, because as I pressed my lips to hers, she forced open my mouth using her tongue.

From then on, it was a battle of will, our tongues wrestling each other - trying to get the other to submit.

Neither of us let up; and to help her finish first, I repositioned one of my hands to the base of a wing, while keeping the other on her head - gripping her mane.

We huffed and puffed into each others mouths, both of us desbrate for air and our release. During all of this time, I managed to regain the usage of my legs. Time to give her a good pounding; arching my back, I thrusted my hips to meet with hers. Her wings started flapping like crazy, and I had to remove my hold of her mane, grabbing her by her hips.

All I could do was hold her hips and thrust back against her, like a madman, while making vocal grunts and moans. Eventually though, it became too much for me - I couldn't keep this up for much longer. My muscles groaned and ached from very little rest. But then, just when I thought that I was about to release before she could finish, she gave out a loud audible screech as I thrusted her one last time. 

"Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh! HMPH! Buuuuck!"

As we screamed in pleasure, I cam insider her, plastering her womb with thick strands of my seed; she collasped on top of me. Rainbow Dash's quivering sex squeezed me as a warm liquid seeped past my shaft and down my sack. The two of us whimpered and moaned as we rode out our orgasms.

"That. . . that was. . ." she couldn't speak too well. I, on the other hand, could only whimper. 

"Hoowee, Ren." I heard Applejack say. "Ya'll weren't kidin' about yer endurance." We shared a short chuckle for a bit, none of us having the energy - nor the will - to move. I remained buried inside Rainbow Dash, her warm velvety marehood still trying to milk more of my seed. No words needed to be said. The prism maned pony wrapped her hooves around my chest and snuggled me, a small smile spread acrossed her face.

"Well," Daring broke the silence. "This was great, but I think its best that we get cleaned up and head out."

"Yeah, its gettin' late, and Ah've got chores to do in the mornin'." Applejack added. Looking out the bedroom window, I could see that she was right. Its getting really late. No way I'm letting these mares go back home smelling like hot and sweaty sex this late.

"Well," I spoke. "Its really late, girls. If you leave now, everypony in town will wonder why you are all out this late, smelling funky. Why not just stay here for tonight?" They all looked at me with curious eyes, wondering if its a genuine offer. "You all can wash up tonight, and head out in the morning, if you like." They thought about it for a few minutes, and they accepted my offer.

"Thanks, Ren." Daring said, rubbing my arm gently.

"Yeah," Rainbow added. "Doubt that I could fly home now. . ." I ran a hand through her prismatic hair, feeling how soft it is. She hummed in delight, nuzzling me even more. Not one of them got up to move towards the shower. Instead, the trio choose to remain stationed by my side - or on top of me, in Rainbow's case. Well, I guess there would be time for a shower later.
> Chapter 4: secret revealed
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I had entered Crowhaven - a ruin fortress far to the west, near the gold coast. Prior to my departure, Agronak gro-Malog, the Imperial Arena's Grand Champion, asked me to find proof of his noble birthright. The Gray Prince... he believed himself to be the son of a nobleman, the Lord Lovidicus, and even chose to call himself 'The Gray Prince' in honor of the heritage that he had been denied all his life.

Gro-Malog provided me with a key that, according to his mother, would 'unlock the truth'. Agronak's mother served as a maiden to the Lord Lovidicus, who ultimately fell for her. One night, she discovered that she was with child - his child. The Lord's mistress, Lady Lovidicus, became enraged once she found out and attempted to kill the maiden. The maiden ran away, fearing the Lady's wrath, and settled in the Imperial City where she gave birth to Agronak. His mother passed away recently, but not before giving him the key that I now hold.

Because of his training, Gro-Malog was unable to make the journey himself, and so he entrusted me with his mother's key, but even he seems unsure what it opens. I'm suppose to find some kind of proof of his birthright, but something tells me that if he were here, he would likely abandon this notion. I had just entered the fort, and already I feel unease. The fort has long since lost its noble trappings, and the presence of evil is unmistakable...

Ahead of me was a barely visible hallway, littered with rumble and debris. The old Fort may have been a site to see at one point, but no longer. Being as stealthy as I could possibly be, I cautiously traversed the halls of the ruins, feeling even more unease the further I went. Why would any nobleman wish to call this place a home?

"What was that?" Someone yelped. Seems that this old Fort has occupants; probably bandits or a coven of rogue mages. Should be easy enough to despatch of them, as long as-

"I smell fresh blood..." That voice caused my blood to chill. It sounded feral... what was in this place? I silently prayed to both Stendarr and Arkay for protection, then advanced slowly. Unfortunately, I failed to pay attention to my footing and accidentally kicked several small stone fragments.

I sweared internally - how could I be so stupid? From the end of the hallway, I heard several footsteps running towards me. "It's now or never, Ren." I whispered softly to myself. Drawing my sword, I braced myself for whatever may come. Since there were no lit torches, I was practically going into a fight blind. So I resulted in using a basic light spell.

I wish that I hadn't... merely a few feet away, I saw them. Their pale skins a dead giveaway that some sort of illness had afflicted them. But I was more transfixed on their eyes... crimson red. Feral...

"There is no escape, mortal." One of the vampires hissed at me. The light spell allowed me to see the pair of undead monsters. I panicked - I've never fought vampires before! One of them lunged after me, it's blade raised high to strike me down; relying on pure instinct, I dodged to the side, evading the crude edge by a few inches, and as I spun around, I saw a opening and knew that I had to take advantage of it, else I would be their next meal. Taking a sharp breath of air, I steeled myself. My brief time in the arena had hardened me, but nothing could ever prepare me for these creatures. But what else is one suppose to do, simply stand in place and allow them to feed on me? Or to fight back for that small chance of survival?

I attacked - thrusting my sword into the vampire's side. If I could hit a vital part of it, I could end the fight early and save my neck. The monster wailed in agony as I drove my blade further and further in, it's deafening howls echoing throughout the no longer silent halls; but while I was so focused on one vampire, the other one closed in on me. It grappled me, and as I struggled to fend it off of me, I felt a sharp pain on the nape of my neck...  



Sweat drenched my clothes as I quickly sat up, screaming in horror. Yet another nightmare; this one, however, felt more like a memory. Crowhaven...  the accursed ruin fortress has haunted me for a long while. Reaching my hand up to my neck, I felt around for any bite marks. Nothing... though the scars still remained, and I'm not referring to the mental scars from my nightmare...

Sighing and ignoring the naughish feeling in my stomach, I got out of bed and headed down stairs for a much needed drink. Pouring myself a glass of whiskey, I stared down at the brown liquid; normally I wouldn't drink whiskey, but over the years, I've grown accustomed to it and only drank a little bit to help relax, or to take the edge off of a stressful situation. Heh, been doing that more often, it seems. The bottle was nearly full when I bought it a couple of months ago - maybe 7/8's. But now perhaps only a quarter of it remained. 

Recently, I've been having more and more nightmares, almost every other day. And nearly all of them were about Crowhaven. The nightmares haven't been that bad - not since my first night at Castle Friendship; after that one night, I didn't have anymore, but once I moved into my new home, that's when they came back. I didn't tell anyone about my nightmares, not even Starlight. No need for yet another trip to the Ponyville hospital. I doubt Nurse Redheart would be eager to see me again; besides, I've dealt with them as best as I can. My methods, however, don't seem to be working and I just end up drinking the whiskey to help forget that day...

No. No, I can't drink this... I can't go on like this. I mean, what would Starlight think if she saw me in such a state of misery? Setting the glass down, I used my magic to create several shards of ice no bigger than my fingers, and placed each of them within the drink. I would drink this another day. And as I backed away from the kitchen, I remembered that Trixie asked me to help set up her stage. She must be performing another magic show, and she even offered to pay me to help her. Perhaps I could join her again?

Climbing back up the stairs for a change of fresh clothes, my mind filled with thoughts of someone close to me... well, somepony. Starlight Glimmer, my special somepony, my marefriend. Whenever I think about her, I tend to smile a lot, because she was the first mare to have shown me what true friendship is... yet, now that she and I are... together...  I don't know. Maybe I'm overthinking it, but I can't help wondering if she's okay with me not being a pony, or if it bothers her that I'm human. I sat at the edge of my bed, resting my head in the palms of my hands; questions kept racing throughout my mind.

Maybe she should be with one of her own kind? Maybe I should talk with her? And what would she do once I... IF I leave this world. Maybe I can stay? But if I do, what will happen to Tamriel? We're at peace now, but who knows how long that will last? And what if I do stay? What if what we have doesn't last?

Ugh! I need a distraction, but a quick glance towards the wall mounted clock, it read 8:58 am. No time for a change of clothes. I'll just wear what I've got on for now. Slamming my fist onto the bed, I thought it best to get moving. Slowly decending the stairs for the third time this morning, I walked out the front door, and proceeded down the path towards sugsrcube corner for a bite to eat, then I would go and help Trixie. A good walk usually helped to focus my mind; yet, the further I walked, the more the thoughts of Crowhaven and Starlight seem to linger in my mind...



"No no no," Trixie said, barking orders at me. "The fireworks crate needs to be set up, after the rest of the stage is prepared." Yeah, clearly she didn't realize that I was moving it out of the way. I didn't reply, and instead got back to helping her. She has a magic show scheduled for a future date, but didn't bother to say when it would be.

As I continued to heave the crates around, I couldn't help but notice how warm it is. Summer ended about two weeks ago, and fall had just begun. But that wasn't the only thing that happened. Placing down a crate full of props, I looked overhead in time to spot a cloud that closely resembled Starlight - drifting by. This, unfortunately, causes me to think of her and of this relationship I'm in with her. Don't get me wrong, I care for her deeply, but sometimes I think her life would be better if she were with a nice stallion - or mare. Equestria didn't really seem to discriminate same sex couples. I had no reason to think this way, except for the fact that I'm not a pony. That, and one day I'll have to return to Tamriel, once I find the wizards... still, my heart does ache at the thought of leaving her behind... Perhaps it's for the best that I -

"REN!!" Trixie yelled out, breaking me out of my deep thinking.

Her yelling caused me to jump. "S-sorry Trixie, I was just... well..." I stammered a bit. The light blue unicorn didn't seem so amused.

"Whatever, pray tell, could be so important that you could ignore the Great and Powerful Trixie?" She glared daggers st me. Honestly, I don't even know why I'm helping her. Easy coin, I guess.

Shaking my head, I told her that it was nothing and proceeded to get back to work. We continued to work in silence, which is good. It's not that I don't like her, she's been nice enough, and she is my marefriend's best friend. Heh, my marefriend. Never in all my years did I ever thought that I would say that. 

Sigh... 

For the third time since this morning, I once again thought of that mare. What I don't understand is why she chose me, of all people, to be her lover. There's nothing really special about me, so why pick me - someone who isn't even of the same species - and not, say... any of the ponies in town? While a part of me still -

"Well," Trixie called out once more. "Something must be bothering you, for you to be daydreaming around the Great and Powerful Trixie. Perhaps she could lend you her ear?" She smirked as she offered, and even leaned towards me.

Sighing in defeat, I turned to face her. "Fine. But remember, it was you that brought it out of me. And if we're gonna do this, it'll be over tea." She rolled her eyes, but nodded shortly after.

"Mind I join in?" Came the sound of a rather regal voice that sounded very familiar. Looking up towards the sky, I saw her - Princess Celestia, descending from the skies, like an angel coming down from the heavens above. Majestic... and a bit melodramatic, if you ask me.

I saluted her, bringing a fist to my chest, above my heart. "Princess Celestia! It is good to see you again." I smiled at her. I try to be on my best behavior whenever she or any of the other princesses arrive. Thank Akatosh that they hardly ever do; they're all too busy with their royal duties. Especially Twilight... I grow tired of her experiments.

"There's no need for formal introductions, Ren, but it is good to see you again, as well."

"Your highness," Trixie addressed her. "What brings you out here? Have you come to view the Great and Powerful Trixie's magic show?" She grinned. As if on instinct, I rolled my eyes at her boastfulness. Celestia, on the other hand, opt for being more polite than what I would have.

"No, not today. I merely wanted to see how our friend was doing." Then she turned to look at me. "May I join you for tea?"

"Oh, uh. Sure, it's fine by me." 



"This is excellent tea, Ren." Celestia praised me. "Is this green tea with honey?"

"Close," I declared, taking a sip. "It's mint green tea with honey. I always start making some in large quantities around fall and throughout winter. The cold doesn't do me any favors." I finished with and heartfelt smile; probably the first in a while.

"Well it is delicious." Celestia levitated her  up to her muzzle with her golden aura. We've been having our tea on my porch for a while now, simply enjoying each other's company; occasionally, we engaged in small dialogue, but most of the time we just sat in silence, allowing the tea's warmth to envelope us. All in all, it was a very calming way to spend the afternoon. The sound of Trixie clearing her throat ended the moment, however.

"So, Ren. What was it that you were about to say to Trixie?" Seriously, is there any reason why she has to address herself in third person? I've heard plenty of Argonians and Khajiit - and even a few Orcs - speak in such a way. It was kind of weird at first, but then it got annoying. Still, I have to maintain the civility. And who knows? It might be good to talk about how I'm feeling about my relationship with Starlight.

"Oh, that." Taking a quick sip, I gently put the cup down and took a deep breath, as I stood up, pacing back and forth on my porch. "It's about Starlight."

"Oh?" Trixie spoke with curiosity. "Did something happen between you two?"

"Well, no. But..." I started to choke on my own words. Perhaps I shouldn't mention it anymore, but something tells me that neither of them will let it go. "I've been thinking a lot lately - ever since we started 'dating'."

"Are you having second thoughts about being with her?" Asked Celestia. I thought about her question; my head is spinning with emotions and my heart is heavy with guilt. Guilt from the doubt that I am unsure if this is what I want. I thought I knew what I wanted, but with the constant nightmares, and my mission here - not to mention my obligation to the Empire... I'm not so sure anymore.

"No... yes? I don't know." I sat back down and chugged more of my tea, wishing it was the whiskey at this point. "I just want to know why she chose me. What made her choose me? I mean, I don't have any problems with cross-species relationships, it happens all the time in Tamriel."

"Well, I'm glad to hear that from you, Ren. It shows how mature you are. But," the alabaster white alicorn glanced off to the side, like she was expecting company. "If you wish to understand your marefriend's choice, I believe it is best to ask her yourself. Wouldn't you agree?"

"Wait, what?" I asked shockingly. Listening closely, I picked up the audible sound of multiple hoovesteps. Okay, so more than one pony. But if one of them is Starlight, then who's the other? I turned around only to see Starlight, being accompanied by Rarity. Even though I still do not entirely understand why she chose me, I cannot deny her beauty. Any stallion or mare would be lucky to have her... and yet, she chose me. Why?

Both mares were carrying something within their auras; Starlight was carrying a bottle of, I'm guessing, champagne, while Rarity was holding a picnic basket. Starlight was the first to wave at me. I waved back.

"Star," I said. "What are you doing here?"

"Oh, like I need a reason to come and see my very special somep - someone." She corrected herself and giggled. She trotted up to me, and stood up on her hind legs to give me a hug. One that I returned, fearing that it could be my last time. I took in her scent as we held each other; her perfume, vanillia sugar... my favorite. Once we broke our embrace, she handed me the bottle, and I realize now that it's not champagne, but something else entirely.

"Griffonstone rum?!"

"Yeah," Starlight said sheepishly. "Applejack said that it's your favorite." The instant she mentioned the farm pony's name, I was reminded of what took place last month, and a chill ran down my spine. Even I'll admit that I wasn't sure why I agreed to go through with it, but it did help me to unwind a bit without resulting to drinking more whiskey. Still... I haven't really seen Applejack, Rainbow Dash or Daring Do in a while. The former being busy with her family's barn, the middle being away with the wonderbolts - either on tour or training, I'm not sure which it was. And finally the latter just hasn't shown her face. In fact, the last time I saw her was the day before Starlight invited me for Rarity's get together. I do miss her company; I wonder what happened to her?

Clearing my head of the thoughts, I thanked Starlight for the gift, then asked Rarity why she brought a picnic basket.

"Well, Starlight and I thought about having a lovely picnic with some of our friends. And she thought that you would love to join us."

"I would," I began to say. "But I'm currently entertaining two other guests at the moment." Not to mention trying to tell them what's been plaguing my mind without a certain somepony being here. I've no doubt that either Rarity or Star would ask if they could join us, but the Princess already beat them to it. They agreed. And so I was forced to retrieve two more chairs and cups of tea.

Upon my return, I was thankful that the conversation didn't start up... perhaps things can go quietly, and Starlight doesn't have to know of my lingering doubts. We simply enjoyed our tea and that was it... that is until...

"So," said Trixie. Oh no; why does Trixie have to be such a bitch? Why now? "What was it that you were going to say about Starlight, who is Trixie's best friend?" I find her wolfish grin unsettling. It's like she's trying to provoke me, or something.

"You were talking about me, Ren?" Starlight questioned me. I've been put on the spot; but perhaps I could avoid this topic altogether? Worth a -

"Yes," Trixie declared. "He has been having so-" I placed my hand over her muzzle, and stopped her obnoxious voice. The instant that this is over, I'm going to strangle her with her cape. I let the gaze I gave her speak for itself, and watched her smirk in amusement.

"Ren," I heard Starlight call out to me. "Is something wrong?" She sounded worried. Well, this isn't what I had in mind. I pinched the spot between my eyes, and gazed at her. All eyes were on me.

"Could we discuss this in privacy?" I pleaded with her. 

"No," She replied. Beads of sweat accumulated on my head. "I want to hear what it is you have to say. Perhaps our friends could offer advice, if there's a problem?" The others nodded in unison. Starlight really wasn't giving me much of a choice here. Sighing in defeat, I took a deep breath of air, and looked into her persian blue orbs. 

"Starlight," I began, guilt and doubt weighing heavily in my heart. "Why did you choose me?"

"What do you mean?" Her expression went from joyful, to confusion mixed with dread. And it showed in her voice that she knew something heavy was on my mind.

"Well, like I told Princess Celestia and Trixie, I've got no problems with cross-species relationships. But that's not what's been troubling me, Star. Sooner or later, I'll have to return to Tamriel, once my mission here is done." I studied her face for a bit; it was unchanging, so I resumed. "And what's really troubling me is what I am... I'm not a stallion, not even a pony in general. And the things that I had to do to survive - things that I don't think that I can tell you. Doesn't it bother you that I'm human? Are we crazy for even considering... I-I'm not..." I struggled to find the right words to use. And to make matters even worse, I was certain that I saw tears building up in her eyes.

"What are you saying, Ren?" She sounded as if she could cry at any moment. "D-do you no longer want to be with me?" Her eyes... those persian blue orbs suddenly became watery with her tears.

"What I'm trying to say is... look, Star, I'm a Legionnaire, first and foremost. My duties are to the Empire. I may be forced to choose to save the lives of the many, or to save the one I love. If I choose the latter, there will be many people who wouldn't be as happy." As I continued to speak, I struggled fighting back my own tears. And the heavier my heart felt. I'm surprised that it hasn't shattered yet. 

"So," Rarity spoke. "You're leaving her because of your concerns of not being a pony? Is that it?!" She was basically shouting at this point. 

"What I believe he is truly concerned with," Celestia voiced her opinion. "Is that he is afraid of losing a loved one. That once he leaves, he might never see her again. Is this correct, Ren?" As I continued to watch my marefriend struggle with her tears, Trixie pulled her in for a hug, to offer her comfort. Something that I'm suppose to do.

With sadness and guilt as my constant compainions, I turned to look at Celestia, and nodded. "Starlight deserves to be happy with... somepony else. I'm not sure if I can do that for her. No matter how much I... I could fall in battle - I run the risk of it every day. Besides, I know that she can find something a little closer to home." I expected to hear the weeping of a certain unicorn; but that sound never reached my ears. I couldn't bring myself to turn around. Despair overwhelmed me...

Suddenly, I heard the familiar chime of a unicorn's horn charging with magic, and I could feel a tingle etch across my body. Someone - somepony - must have bypassed my spell absorption, and poured enough magic to affect me so. Rarity and Trixie, while capable with their magics, didn't have the energy to affect me, due to my magical resistance. Princess Celestia could possibly bypass my resistance and absorption, though that has yet to be tested. So that leaves only one other pony...

Being forced to turn around by her amplified magic, I beheld Starlight in her state of grief and misery; her eyes were filled with rage. I've never seen her like this before... yet I can still see the tears within her eyes.

"Ren," Starlight got closer and closer to my face. "Don't. You. Dare. Give. Up." Those five words carried a great deal of meaning. I've heard others tell me those exact words many times throughout my lif;, but, somehow with Starlight, they seem to have a more powerful meaning. "Do you hear me? I won't let you give up on what we have."

Letting out yet another heavy sigh, I attempted to speak, before she pressed her hoof against my lips. Then her eyes turned from rage filled sorrow, to pleading.

"Ren, please. You say that I deserve to be happy, but you didn't say anything about you and what you deserve. You've told me all about your struggles during your soldier campaign, and how you ended up doing things that you regretted later. I've seen you struggle with your stress, your emotions... but most of all, I've see you struggle with your health, and with being happy. You deserve to be happy like everypony else."

I fell silent for a while, taking to heart the meaning of her words. Has she really seen me struggle so much? "Do you really mean that?" I asked. Stupid question to ask, I know, but I felt like it needed to be asked. 

"Of course. Why would you think otherwise?"

"Because I'm not a stallion - or a pony. I'm not exactly perfect for you..." I said, no longer make eye contact with her. At this point, she released me from her magic. She then got out of her chair, and trotted over to stand in front of me. Lifting my chin with her gentle hoof, I could see her tears have finally fallen, and she began to sob.

"Ren, I don't care about perfection - I never did. Being happy doesn't mean that everything is perfect. It means that you've decided to look beyond the imperfections. I don't care that you're not a stallion, I don't care that you're different. Ren, it doesn't matter to me if you're rich or poor, or if you're good looking or not." Standing on her hind legs, she leaned in closer to me, and placed a hoof over my heart.

"I didn't choose you for any of those traits. I chose you because of your heart." She started to caress my chest through the fabric of my shirt, until I placed a hand over her hoof, and held it still.

"But what about my obligations?" I asked her. "And there will be those who will find it strange that you chose an alien, rather than your own kind. And what of my past deeds? You would be willing to face a future with me?"

With a simple nod, she expressed herself once more. "You can still carry on with your obligations to the Empire, I know how important it means to serve your country. And I'll support you in any way I can, because that's what love means. To share each other's burdens. And I don't care what others will think, because they don't know you the way I do. And it doesn't matter what you did in the past. What matters is that you learn from your mistakes."

I contemplated on her words for a time, but only briefly. "You're right... about everything. And I allowed my self-doubt get the best of me. This... this is what really matters. Damn what others think of us." I pulled her closer to me and embraced her tightly, allowing my own tears to fall. The fur around her shoulder became matted, as did my shirt. We held each other for an extended length of time, neither of us wanting to let go.

"I feel so stupid for ever having these doubts about myself and for ever bringing it up. Can you ever forgive me?" I pleaded through my sobbing. 

"Of course I will." She said cheerfully. "But that doesn't mean that you're off the hook. There will be a punishment for you later." There was something devious about the way she said 'punishment', like she had something fun in mind for a later date.

"Ooh, that sounded saucy. I guess we can discuss my punishment later then." We hugged one more time. I have found love in this strange land that they call Equestria. I have found my happiness. "Thank you, Star. Thank you for making me the happiest man alive." We leaned in for a passionate kiss. The others began to clap their hooves together.

Starlight and I pulled anyway from the kiss, leaving a trail of saliva. "And thank you for accepting me and for taking that chance with me." She leaned in for yet another kiss, but I had to stop her. And as I looked deep into my lover's eyes, I knew that I had to tell her something... about what I am.

"I'm sorry, Star, but I haven't been entirely honest with you. And while I'm not ready to tell you everything just yet, I can at least tell you one thing. Or, rather, show you." I could see the confusion within her eyes, as she tired to decipher my meaning. Turning to face the others, I noticed that they all had the same uncertain expressions as well.

Stepping off of my porch, I stood facing the path that lead towards the Ponyville park, and thought of something. I haven't used this power for quite some time, because I had no need of its usage. Not since the Legion - with the full force of the Empire - defeated the Aldmeri Dominion, and restored the Empire to it's former glory. I concentrated on my unused power, thinking of one thing: the coldness of Skyrim. Taking a breath of air, I filled my lungs to the brim, and uttered three words...

"FO KRAH DIIN!" The instant that the last word left my voice, the air I exhaled became frigid with a bitter cold. My voice - enhanced by the power of the Thu'um - echoed across the forest, with a deafening sound that could rival thunder. This was dragons breath - frost breath! The warmth of the tea left my body as the biting cold of my Thu'um turned the natural path into what it will undoubtedly resemble during winter's frosty blizzard. The shout lasted for a few seconds, but the adrenaline that surged through me would last a while longer. I could feel the intoxicating grip overwhelm me, just as I did when I first discovered my new found ability.

"What was that?!" Starlight shouted. I turned back, only to find shocked expressions upon all of my guests. Taking back my seat, I grinned as I bellowed the answer.

"That, my dear Starlight, was the Thu'um." I felt like I could just leave the rest up for her to figure out. It shouldn't take her-

"THE THU'UM!?" She yelled excitedly. Told you. "But... that means..." She took one more second to think to herself, then glanced at me, with her enchanting wide eyes. "You said that there was only one - that he was the last one. So..." the revelation must have been too much for her. I simply sat in my chair, with my hands resting behind my head.

"The 'last one' what, darling? What are you talking about?" Rarity asked.

"The dragonborn." Starlight paused for dramatic effects, before adding, "Ren said that the dragonborn is someone who is born with the blood and soul of a dragon, but with the body of a mortal." In unison, the four mares turned to look at me, with my devilish smile. Their eyes widened to the size of dinner plates.

"So," Trixie muttered to herself, then she spoke more loudly. "That means that Ren..."

"Is this fabled dragonborn." Princess Celestia finished Trixie's sentence. I nodded, then popped the cork of the rum and took a swig. Can't get enough of this stuff. After the revelation, Starlight started reminding me of the cutie mark crusaders, asking me question after question. Practically reminded me of my first time in the hospital. Holding her mouth closed, I announced that I would tell her everything that she wanted to know, as long as we had time to talk and sort things out between us.

"Okay. But maybe you should let Twilight know, too?" She suggested. I really didn't want to talk with Twilight; the last few months of being in her castle still lingered within my mind. But I knew that with at least three mares that regularly interacted with the young Princess, she would eventually find out. Hell, the echo of my shout would likely reach her ears.

Sighing in defeat, I stated, "Fine."

"Now then, you said that you wanted to clear things up?" I nodded. "Alright, then." She sat in silence. So I now have her full undivided attention. Good.

"First off, I'm sorry for having these doubtful thoughts. I should have been honest with you about how I felt from the start." I paused for a moment, to see if Starlight was listening or if she wish to voice her opinions on the matter. She was still silent, so I resumed. "Second, I'm sorry for-"

"Ren!" She interrupted me. "You don't have to apologize about that. I understand - you weren't ready to reveal something this big." She smiled at me and placed a hoof over my hand. "You don't have to worry about that. If you ever want to talk about your other secrets, just let me know, okay?"

"Thank you, Star." I smiled back about her. "So, I'm going to see Twilight, tell her what I am, and ask her if it's possible to open up about the portal between our worlds." 

"I could assist you in that regard, as well." Celestia offered. I accepted. "It should not take long, and once I find something of relevant, I shall inform you."

"Thank you, Princess." I said. She levitated her tea cup to her muzzle. As I went to raise the bottle of rum for yet another swig, I felt a nudge against my hand, and found that Starlight was staring at me. I smiled at her, and lifted her up onto my lap. She leaned in ever so closer to me; I knew what she wanted. I leaned in to her and pressed my lips against hers, kissing her passionately, once again. And for the first time since my arrival, I felt truly at peace with the world.
> Chapter 5: Hold on to the memories
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Roughly an hour had passed, since celes - uh, Princess Celestia came to visit me. Each of us spent some quality time together, enjoying each others company and our tea. After which, she departed saying that she needed to attend to her royal duties. We stood on my porch, waving goodbye to her; well, the others stood. I sat on my chair, holding my gorgeous marefriend in my lap. How did I get this lucky? A new life, and someone who genuinely cares for me... nightmares aside, I don't think life can get any better. That being said, how do I go about telling Starlight about my most recent nightmares? I don't want her to worry over me more than what she has to, yet I know that sooner or later, I'll have to break the news to her. 

But that can wait for a time. For now, it's a beautiful day and Rarity talked about a picnic earlier. Why ruin the day with talks of nightmares?

Only, she failed to mention who all was going to be attending the picnic... we went back into town to pick up more supplies, at the fashionista's suggestion. Our first, and only, stop was at everypony's favorite place for sweets: sugarcube corner. But while advancing through the town, I overheard some of the locals talking about a strange noise that they described like a thunderstorm, but there was no rain scheduled for at least another 2 days. I should have known better, I never should have demonstrated my Thu'um. I'm such an idiot; if the inhabitants of Winterhold could hear the Greybeard's Thu'um, summoning the dragonborn - me - to their monastery, it's possible that others could of heard it as well... like the wizards.

But that was the least of my worries; upon entering the bakery, we were greeted - at first - by Pinkie Pie, who proceeded to greet us all with a near inescapable hug, and was quickly joined by the three little fillies - Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Shortly after the hugs and warm greetings were through, that's when I saw them... standing next to the counter, were two mares that I haven't seen in a few weeks. The farm pony, Applejack, and the newest member of the Wonderbolts, Rainbow Dash. Neither of them seemed overly happy to see me, but they smiled all the same. Probably because of the others. Rarity said that they would be joining us, but had expected them and the CMC to meet us on the hilltop overlooking sweet apple acres. 

"No matter, now we can all go as a group." Said Rarity. As she turned to exit sugarcube corner, Applejack called me over to her and Rainbow. Guess she wants to discuss something with me. I obliged her request, telling the others that I would catch up with them later. A quick glance over at Rainbow revealed a rising anger; something tells me that she is greatly pissed, and in that instant, I felt a lump in my throat. Did I do something to offend her?

"Somethin' wrong?" I asked, feeling confused about what's happening.

"Ah wouldn't say somethin's wrong, Ren but—" Before Applejack could finish what she was about to say, Rainbow Dash let loose a low growl, signaling that she had grown incredibly agitated, and flew within inches of my face. Her magenta irises burning through me, making me feel guilty... but why? What did I do?

"I. Want. Answers." She growled.

"R-rainbow, what's wrong?" I ask, stumbling over my words and contemplating why she's behaving so violently today. In the time that I've gotten to know her and befriended her, she's been pretty mellow, only getting upset when she doesn't get a flight routine down perfectly. I've been told that she has been known for her flights of anger from time to time, which is understandable; it happens to the best of us. But now her magenta eyes seem to have gotten even redder, with the intent of murdering me for some profound reason.

"Daring Do was really upset, after leaving your home the last time she was there! She won't talk to me or anypony else! What did you do?!" And so we get to the root of her anger... but I don't remember seeing Daring Do that day. Did she ever pay me a visit? I was expecting her to visit me, to help me relax more as per our... agreement. But she never showed up.

That was the day that Starlight and I started our relationship. Could it be possible that the reason why Daring never showed was because of that? I feel that perhaps there is a deeper meaning behind all of this... The more that the rainbow maned pegasus yelled her brains out at me, the closer she would get to my face.

Suddenly, Dash was pulled away from me. Applejack yanked on her tail, clamping her jaws around it, and bringing her down to the ground. 

"Now Dash," the farm pony said. "We don't really know what happened. So why don't we talk it out, like civil pony folk?"

Well, at least somepony is on my side. I sighed, thankful that Applejack was will—

"Besides, Ah'm sure that he has a good enough of an explanation..." Applejack's voice lowered as she glared up at me. "Don't ya, partner?"

I gulped. So much for having somepony on my side. "Look, girls..." I sighed once again, and prepared myself for a long speech. "This is what happened..." And so I told them what all had happened that day—except for the nightmare... keeping that one to myself. I explained to them that I was invited to have tea with some of our friends, how Starlight had shared her feelings for me, and that she and I started dating after that.

"Ah see." Said Applejack. Judging from Applejack's expression I think it's safe to say that she believes me; Rainbow Dash still seems greatly upset and needs more convincing.

"Look, I'm sorry if I hurt anypony's feelings. But we—" I stopped myself, and checked to see if anyone else could be listening in on this conversation. When I saw that the coast was clear, I resumed. "We all agreed that it was just a fling."

"And that's all it was," said a familiar voice. I recognize that voice. Looking around, I saw her laying across a support beam above the counter; figures. Ever since I came here, I never had the need to look up—especially since there weren't any giant frostbite spiders crawling down from the ceiling, or any dragons swooping down upon me to try and kill me. Good thing too, because swooping is bad.

Daring's face was rather calm—she was evening smiling. Weird... from what Rainbow was saying, it sounded like Daring Do was upset—hurt even, by some form of action that I had done. Though I am unsure why—we all agreed that there would be no repercussions, no strings attached. Yet, here she is, bright as rain. 

"Daring," I began to speak. "I haven't seen you in a while." She didn't say anything, but instead flew down from the support beam and hovered before me, wrapping her forehooves around me. I hugged her back.

"I'm sorry if I offended you—" she placed a hoof against my lips, cutting me off.

"You have nothing to be sorry for. It was just a fling to help you ease tension, and to have some fun. Sure, I'm a little upset that we can't do that again—and I'll admit, you were the best buck I've had in a long time." She cracked a smile as she hugged me tighter. "But I'm happy for you, Ren. And you should be happy too."

I hugged her just as tight as she hugged me. "I do miss our time together, though." I admitted. "Its not everyday that I meet a kindred spirit, like you." That earned me a chuckle from the adventurous pony.

"I've missed you, too." She replied. Releasing me from her hold, we exited the bakery store and rejoined the others.




Gotta give credit to Rarity, having a picnic was a good idea and this weather was just perfect. The eleven of us mostly sat and visited with each other; until the CMC wanted to play for a while. And of course, Pinkie Pie decided to go play with them, leaving the rest of us to talk.

Sitting myself next to Starlight, I gently held her hoof within my hand, releasing a sigh of relief while I relaxed. For the first time in a while, I felt at ease. Like nothing else was more important than spending time with friends, being with my marefriend and enjoying life. This wonderful creature has shown me that there is more to life then fighting. Maybe... I don't have to be just a soldier; I could be more then a warrior. I could settle down, and be happy with the ones that I care for. I had lost my chance at happiness before, I'm not about to let it be taken away from me again.

However, if only there were ways for others to have their chance at happiness. From the corner of my eye, I could see the light golden furred pegasus frowning—hell, she spend a few minutes looking at the ground, in a deep depression. Maybe there's more to what Rainbow had mentioned before? I can't help but feel sorry for her. I excused myself from Starlight's side, and stood up. It was time I had a talk with Daring.

"What's wrong, Ren?" She asked innocently.

"Nothing," I declared. "I just need to talk with Daring about where to start looking next." I mean that's partly true. Starlight nodded, and stood up.

"Okay. By the way, have you been turning in any of the crystal shards to Twilight?" Oh crap. I forgot that I have a bag full of then from my last expedition.

"I haven't, sorry. There's a bag full of them back at my house, in my room."

"Oh," Starlight suddenly gave me the 'come hither' look. "I get to be in the bedroom? You sure I can't tempt you to join me?" She asked, her sultry voice ringing in my ears. She finished her alluring performance with a little shake of her rump. "It would just be me, in that big house of yours, all by myself."

I know what she's trying to do. In the near seven months since my arrival, I only had... intercourse with Rainbow Dash and Applejack once and Daring Do twice—and no, I haven't spoken a word of that night nor of my time with Daring. Taking those secrets to the grave with me; and ever since Star and I started dating, the thought of being sexually involved with another pony has been on the forefronts of my mind. Truth be told, I'm okay with it.

Yes, these are ponies—what you and I would consider to be farm animals. But these creatures are sentient beings, with thoughts, feelings, and desires of their own. And I've come to care for one of these creatures to the point of love... but despite on how I feel for her—despite how much I wanted to... rut her, I feel that I still need time to resolve the tension between me and Daring... and Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Besides, we've only been together for two weeks, and I would like more time before we reach that moment.

Still, doesn't mean that I can't tease her back.

"As tempting as an offer that is, I must decline." I say, with a smirk on my face, trying to sound as playful as possible. We've playfully acted this way before, so she knows what it is that I'm doing. "Besides," I kneel down to her, and gently took a hoof in the palm of my hand; bringing it up to my lips, I kissed it and gazed lovingly into her eyes. "Business now, pleasure later." I try to say with some degree of sultry in my voice. For my efforts, I was rewarded with a giggle.

"Sir, yes sir." Starlight purred as she leaned in, slowly closing her eyes. Seeing her puckering her lips, I followed her example, and pressed my lips to hers. Nothing else mattered to me at this moment—to either of us. It did not matter if the others were watching, for this was how we showed our love for one another, and we have accepted each other for who and what we are; she is my Starlight, my glimmer of hope against the darkness, my mare. And I am her Renegade, her soldier... her dragonborn... her human.

But while neither of us wished for this moment to end, we are both required to breathe. Separating myself from her, I gazed lovingly into her eyes, and ran my hand through her mane. She pushes into it, relishing the touch and prolonging our departure. We did not share any more words, because we both believe that actions speak louder, and our actions were clear to each other. She loves me and I love her. I offered her a hug before she left for my house, and she accepted, quickly wrapping her hooves around my neck.

I breathed in deeply, taking in her scent; she smells of lavender and vanilla... if I were still a vampire, I would have already dug my fangs into her neck, and she would be mine... forever. Thank the divines I'm no longer one of those undead fiends. We ended our embrace—finally. Standing up, I turned on my heels, and marched off to speak wi—

Smack!

"Wha—!" I yelped. Something hit me on my ass, and the school girl giggling I heard from behind me told me who the culprit could be. Turning back around, I saw that my mischievous unicorn held a hoof to her muzzle as she tried to contain more of her snickering.

"Starlight, darling!" Rarity spoke. "Such uncouth behavior is unbecoming of a lady!" We both turn to face her, and beheld her also attempting to conceal her muzzle. She attempted to clear her throat, but only snickered more.

"Alright," said Starlight. "I'll go turn in the shards to Twilight. I'll be back soon." But as she turned to head back to my home, an idea crept into the forefront of my thoughts. An evil... yet enjoyable idea. I grinned, as I swung my palm to connect with her bubbly flank.

Smack!

Starlight yelped from being spanked. When she glanced over her shoulder, she found me grinning and giving her bedroom eyes. And I was rewarded with a blush, and a wink... and I also got to see her rubbing her flank with her hoof.

By the Gods, I am a lucky man...

"Ahem," the sound of a not so amused magician clearing her throat entered my ears. "Perhaps you two should consider getting a room." She stated. I chuckled at her response, and would have retaliated with a witty comeback if I wasn't distracted by the beauty in front of me. 

As I continue to watch Starlight trot away, I couldn't help but crack a smile... that mare has changed me; and it also meant that I got to see her sway—

"Oh Ren~" a singing voice caught my attention. Rarity's voice, no doubt. When I turned to look at Rarity, I could see that she wore a wolfish grin, similar to the one that Trixie had earlier.

"Why are you grinning like that?" I asked. "You're beginning to look like the cat that swallowed the canary."

"You were enraptured; almost hypnotized by her." Rarity spoke, of course, of Starlight while she kept her grin.

"And why not? She has helped me in the past few months since I've been here, and still helps to this day. And I do what I can to help her." Happiness swells in me and spreads throughout my body. 

"Oh, I see." She said. "And I guess that you were simply 'helping' yourself to an eye full of her well rounded flank, hmm?" My face turned a shade of red. "Oh darling, don't take any offense! I'm very happy for you both. And I must say, red is a good look for you." As she and Trixie giggled, I cleared my throat and excused myself, returning to my objective: clearing the air with Daring Do.

Walking away from the two giggling unicorns and over towards Daring, I took notice of Applejack and Rainbow Dash, both sitting next to her. Did I do something wrong? The trio were conversing with one another, and as much as I wanted to know what they were discussing, my concerns were to clear the air with Daring, and figure out what I did to cause her so much grief. 

My mind thought back to that night... why? It was her idea—so I doubt that I truly did anything wrong; but then why were Applejack and Rainbow Dash upset with me? And why is Daring so distraught? I braced myself for whatever may come, and announced my presence.

As if they were of the same mind, Rainbow and Applejack turn towards me. AJ seemed concerned and troubleminded, but for whom, I wonder? Rainbow glared daggers at me, her magenta irises seethed at the very sight of me. I took a step back, more so out of fear than respect. Whatever I may or may not have done, Rainbow seems to believe that I am to blame. Great; just what I needed. She zips over to me, and within a second there is a blue furred marshmallow pony looking deep into my eyes with anger radiating from her own.

"You need to fix this!" Rainbow barked. Okay, now I'm truly confused. I tried searching the depths of my memories for any sort of clue, but it was all for naught.

"Rainbow, what did I do?" My question and cluelessness only seem to further aggravate her. And just be fore the Rainbow maned pony could utter another word, she was yanked away from me; once again, a certain farm pony grabbed her by her tail with her mouth, and brought her down to earth. 

"Rainbow, let 'em talk it out, alright?" Applejack pleaded. Still seething, Rainbow reluctantly allowed me to pass. The two of them went to join the unicorns, but not before I stopped the earth pony and asked her what was going on. None of this was making sense to me.

"Sugarcube," she let out a sigh. "Ah belived ya when y'all said that you meant no harm. But somethin' ain't sittin' well with that pony. Don't really know what the problem is mahself, but Ah think y'all need to work out the issue. Think ya can handle that, big guy?" I nodded, and earned a warm genuine smile from her. "Thanks, partner. In the meanwhile, Ah'll have a little ol' chat with RD. Can't have her bein' upset for no reason."

I watched as the farmer trotted over to do what she said she would do, leaving me to tend to Daring Do. And while I admit that I am greatly concerned for her, I'm equally worried about Rainbow Dash and her aggressiveness; but I've no doubt that Applejack will come through in the end. She is true to her element, and can never tell a lie. 

Once again, I call out to Daring, but she didn't reply back. She only responded with a simple gesture; she patted the ground, wishing for me to sit next to her. I took my seat, and we sat still and quiet for a time, as we watched Pinkie continue to play with the CMC. When at last the silence was damn near maddening, I asked her what was bothering her. She fumbled over her words, unsure what to say.

"I-I don't know, it's just... let me ask you something." Nodding my head, I sat and allowed her to ask her question. "Say that you've known some... pony for a while, and you two worked along side one another during that time. You start to... think that maybe there's some sort of connection between you two—but you haven't said anything to your friend yet! You're not even sure about these feelings, but you can't really ignore or deny them either. Then one day, when you're about to hangout with your friend, you see that he's—hmph!"

Her eyes enlarged as she quickly shoved her hooves into her mouth, ending what she was about to say. A mental image begins to form in my head, and I think I'm finally understanding what's wrong; but still, it's best that I listen some more to determine if what I suspect is right or not. However, as I waited for her to resume her question, she remained silent. Heh, I've definitely dealt with this before—though I doubt that the same methods I used on Starlight would work on someone who's something of a kindred spirit to me. 

Hmm... I think I know what will do the trick. Rising to my feet, I—huh? Why does it feel like I'm being pulled down? Looking back down, I saw a pair of hooves tugging on my shirt. Daring's eyes were locked onto me. 

"Wait, don't go!" She begged. Daring quickly realized what she did and just as quickly retracted her hooves, a bright red blush spread across her muzzle. And just like that, rather she blieves it or not, she helped prove my hypothesis. Still, more information never hurt anybody.

"I'm not going anywhere," I reassured her. "I'm just standing up to better focus my magic." I ruffled her mane a bit, before standing up. Using my knowledge of the summoning arts, I summoned forth my dremora butler from the plains of oblivion. Appearing in the clearing of the grassy hillside, a well dressed, well behaved dremora stood in attention, awaiting my command.

"More cups and plates for me to carry?" It asked of me, with a courteous bow.

"Do you still have those bottles of Honningbrew mead?"

"Certainly, sir. How many would you like?"

"Four bottles, thank you."

Reaching into its extremely deep pockets (seriously, how deep are his pockets?), it produced four bottles of the drink, as commanded. Most would probably be disturbed by me summoning such a creature, but I believe that these ponies are okay with it. Or, at least I believe they are. None of them have ever complained, not even Twilight. After handing over the bottles, I thanked it for its services, and dismissed it.

"I live to serve." It said, as it disappeared - returning to the realm of oblivion from whence it came.

"Y'know," I heard Daring's voice. "That spell seems to be really useful."

"Yeah... here." I handed her a bottle, to which she was a bit hesitant at first. "Just drink it, alright? It'll calm your nerves."

Sensing that Daring might not continue with her question until she feels comfortable again, I figured that a good drink would help her out. Thinking back to my early days in Skyrim, there was one drink that I favored above all others, and it always calmed my nerves before I went on an adventure or a mission for the Legion:  Honningbrew mead. Don't get me wrong, Black-Briar mead is good and all, but Honningbrew is a bit sweeter, and just as strong as its competitor. Too bad the meadery shut down because of a 'rodent infestion'.

Eventually, she accepted her bottle... only to give it back. My dumbass forgot to remove the cork. Removing the cork, I handed back the bottle, and we drank, while watching Pinkie and the CMC play hide-n-seak. That game quickly turned into finding Pinkie, because she fucking disappeared — one minute, she stepped behind a tree, and the next thing I know she had some how reappeared back at the picnic. The fillies were still looking for her.

"Anyway, you were saying, Daring?" I asked, taking a swig from my drink.

"O-oh, r-right," the adventuring pony stuttered. Perhaps she wasn't ready to talk; or at least that's what I believed, until she chugged down more of her mead. "Damn, that's good stuff." We both chuckled a bit more, before she continued. And the more that she went on with her scenario, the more clearer things became. "So, anyway, you're not so sure if these feelings are genuine or not, and you find out that your friend is spending time with somepony else, and eventually starts a relationship; and you still have these feelings for your friend. Untold feelings. What do you do?"

Oh, now we're getting to the more serious stuff. Now things were making more and more sense. I sat still, and thought hard about the scenario that she listed off for me, when an old memory entered my thoughts; one that I don't particulary enjoy...




Ever been in a love triangle before? I have - a couple of times, and I never enjoyed it. The first time it happened to me was when I had met this girl—can't really recall what the occasion was over, or how we met up. She was a rather lovely young thing, living  in Chorral; buxom, with light brown hair. She was a rather small thing, probably only around 5 ft. in height. I think her name was Ciera? We got along pretty well together, and had the same interests and hobbies. I thought that perhaps we could be more then friends, and be very happy together; but this isn't a fairy's tale. There was no happy ending for me, no happily ever after; only misery.

A fair bit after we started going out for drinks and dinner, I felt like we were ready to advance our relationship into something more, and all I had to do was to suck in my gut, and ask her. But as it turns out, I wasn't the only one who was interested in being with her. An old friend of hers—one that she cared for in the past, but for whatever the reason had left her, came back into her life; even worse, Ciera never told me that while dating me, she was secretly seeing this guy behind my back!

After the third week of dating, she confessed to me... her friend had proposed. I was heartbroken, confused, and needless to say upset. Yet, despite how she felt for him—I'm just going to refer to him as Jack - she didn't want to leave me either... So I made it simple for her, and left, while I was still on good terms with her. I did eventually meet up with her again, several weeks later, and she wasn't with 'Jack'. Instead, she was with somebody new, but was having trouble with the relationship, and wanted to talk about it over some drinks. I wasn't sure if I could trust her at this point, but I indulged her for the sake of having an excuse to having a drink or four. She had told me that she wanted to be with 'Jack' mainly because of the little girl he had from another lover, but didn't really seem to like him all that much. She said that he was a sweet guy, but not really her type. 

But that wasn't the only thing she had mentioned...

The guy that Ciera got with was someone that she had wanted to be with for a while now, but was too nervous to talk to him. When she and I were dating, he became interested in her... all she needed was for me to be out of the picture. When I left, her new lover made his move. Then things started falling apart in their relationship. She apologized for using me, and asked if we could perhaps start over... I said I would think about it, and took her home that night.

And of course, something happened after we departed that night. When I left her at her place, she told her lover that it was my idea to get back with her. To which I was informed that he wanted to fight me... Once again, I left. Joined the Fighter's guild to earn my living, and started drinking a lot more than what I'm proud to admit. Eventually, I stopped thinking about her, and I don't consider her a friend anymore; if someone is just going to use me for their bitter ends or to cause drama,  then I don't want anytihng to do with them! Yet, I cannot deny how she made me feel while we were together. I did felt like maybe we could have worked things out, but I didn't wish to; nor did I tell her of my feelings towards her. She didn't deserve to hear of how I cared for her... how I loved her.




I sat still and quiet for a while, still contemplating on an answer for Daring. And I think I've got one for her. When I was about to tell her, however, I sensed that there were others nearby. The other five mares had apparently moved the picnic over to where Daring and I were sitting, and were currently staring at me. With all eyes fixiated upon me, I shook my head to clear my thoughts.

"Sorry girls," I said. "I was taking a trip down memory-lane, so to speak." That eased up some of the staring, at least. "Anyway, Daring, to answer your question; just talk to him, and ask if you can still be friends." Her expression was one of deep thinking, yet at the same time, she also looked as if she were thinking, 'really?'

About a minute later, Daring responds with another question. "But what if he doesn't want to be friends anymore?"

"Well, then he would have to be a really shitty friend. Either you two remain good friends or you don't, you'll never know until you talk to him." I declared. She put a hoof to her chin, once again, and resumed her deep thinking. Though, this time it didn't last nearly as long as before.

"Just talk to him, like it's that easy?" I nodded. "If you say it is, then I'll try it. Everything you said does make a lot of sense. Thanks Ren." She offered a warm smile, and took another swig of her mead, and I copied her pattern. And as we sat on the hilltop, basking in the warm mid-afternoon sun, I looked over towards a certain cyan furred pony, and thought about my answer to Daring. Taking it to heart, I passed one of the remaining bottles to Rainbow Dash, as a peace offering. 

"Ren, it's fine." The athletic pony declared. "You don't need to—"

"Rainbow," I interrupted her. "Its a peace offering. I want you to have it." I offered the bottle to her, once more, after I removed the cork. She accepted, but did not drink right away. "Trust me, Dash, you'll like it."

Hesitantly she took a sip from the opened bottl, and gently put it down, humming in delight. "This isn't half bad, actually." She said, quickly taking a much larger swig from her beverage.

"Told you so," I chuckled. And so it was that our friendship was rekindled. And with the last bottle, I offered it to Applejack, who accepted it without hesitation. The whole while we sat on the hilltop, I began to feel... I don't know how to describe it; it feels like I no longer have a care in the world. Like I truly belonged somewhere, for the first time, since I arrived. Not just in Equestria, but Tamriel as well.

Then suddenly, and without explanation, I felt so strangely weakened. As if I had no energy left in me. I don't know why though, all I did today was help set up a stage for Trixie, and that was it. So why am I feeling drained? Perhaps I should head home and rest? The thought had indeed crossed my mind, but if I do, what would I tell the others? 'Oh hey, girls, sorry to say this, but I'm feeling tired - even though all I did was move crates'?

Yeah, I don't think so. Besides, I'm sure its nothing, so I ignored this strange feeling for the time being.

To distract myself of it, I focused my attention at watchin the Cuite Mark Crusaders continue their active search for each other — they eventually realized that Pinkie was no longer playing, and resumed their game of hide-n-seek with each other. The longer that I watched them play, the more I am reminded of the times when I would play games such as this with the few friends that I had back home, and my brothers, in my youth. Such good memories... Finding each other, wherever we played, laughing everytime we found each other, and trying to find the best hiding place each and every time. I wonder if any of them remember those times? I wonder if any of them even realize that I'm no longer there with them — or if they even care that I'm gone?

I continued to watch the fillies run around and laugh to their hearts contents; unaware that the mares around me were having a discussion. From the bits and pieces that I tuned in on, it sounded as though they were talking about an unusual thunderous boom, yet no rain clouds were in the sky. Just like the ponies in town were earlier.

I quickly tuned in entirely. Looking over at Rarity, I could see that she was doing her best to keep a straight face to maintain her composer, while pretending to know nothing about it. I'll have to thank her for that. I'll also have to be more careful when using my Thu'um—if I ever use it again, that is. No doubt the wizards heard it, wherever they are. 

But then again, I thought. When the Greybeards summoned me, there were four of them - shouting in unison. So its possible that only those in Ponyville and within the srrounding forest could have heard it. I had best be weary from this point onward.

I felt a nudge against my side, and I caught the scent of sugary baked goods; suddenly my field of vision became filled with pink, as Pinkie Pie giggled and tried to gain my attention. Does she not know the meaning of personal space? She asked me what were my thoughts? I could only take a guess as to what she was talking about, but I have to be sure first.

"Sorry, but could you repeat the question?" I asked sheepishly.

"I said what do you think caused the thunder noise, silly." Pinkie giggled. So I was right. As I sat in silence, I could feel their gazes upon me; they all heard the thunder of my Thu'um, as I feared. However, I noticed that not all the ponies were staring at me with confusion in ther eyes. Resting on her haunches, sipping from her tea cup, Trixie's grin was far more wolfish than what it had been earlier. What did she do?

"Didn't you hear it, Renny?" Pinkie asked. "ImeanIthoughtitwasadragonliketheonethatwassleepinginacaveupinamountainwithabadsnore—" she kept on with that usual speed that was difficult to fol— wait a sec. I covered her muzzle with my hand, and asked if she could slow down a bit. she nodded.

"Now," I cleared my throat. "What was that part about a cave in the mountain?" Pinkie Pie began her tale with her counting on how many balloons she would need for some sort of party she was planning to host for Rainbow Dash; something about her breaking a record or something, I dunno. I stopped listening after a while — my interests were in knowing the location of the cave.

"— and then we set off for the mountain after we made our intros!" She said... The things that this pony says each and every time I talk to her makes me question reality. I held up my hands, indicating that I wish for her to stop, and she complied. Thankfully.

"Which mountain was it?"

"Its that one there," Pinkie pointed with her hoof to a large mountain, due east of town. There, I hope to resume my journey. I've searched all the caves within the forest - with the help of Daring, and had no luck; its time to explore the mountains. I'll set out in the morning. And this also gave me an excuse to head home. As I stood up, that strange feeling intensified, and I nearly fell over—were it not for a swift recovery.

"Are you alright, Darling?" Rarity asked worriedly. I stood still, and waited to see if anything else would happen. My vision was a tad blurry, and I felt a little lightheaded; like I had just woken up from a long nap, or when I had the flu.

Shortly afterwards, I felt fine. I nodded to give Rares my answer, though I doubt that she believes me; looking around, I saw that the others seemed concerned for me, even Trixie. I attemped to think of all the possibilities that could explain the cause of my sudden illness, yet no answer came to me.

"Perhaps ya need to take it easy with yer workouts, partner." Applejack suggested. Maybe she's right; I have been pushing myself a little too hard, and haven't really been taking good care of myself ever since I came to Equestria. But then again, my reasons for exerting myself to the point of near collapse seem justified - and on top of that, I prefer to be active. If I allow myself to become lazy and skip more than a day of exersise, then I feel incompetent, unfullfilled. 

"If only it were that simple." I said, releasing a sigh. So I performed my breathing techniques to clear my head. I don't know how Applejack can possibly keep working on the farm, and still have the energy to keep going on and NOT be tired. Or how Rainbow Dash can take such elongated naps throughout the day, yet still have the energy to perform such aerial stunts AND shows for the Wonderbolts, without tiring. Even when I'm on leave from the Legion, I find some way to stay active. However, as much as I hate the idea oftaking a break, I don't really have a choice. 

Prior to agreeing to help Trixie with her setup, Starlight made me promise to not workout today or tomorrow. She mentioned something about a surprise for tomorrow. And to make matters worse, this was one of those promises that can't be broken. Not long after she had learned of my existance, Pinkie Pie taught me her signature 'super duper spatacularly awesome unbreakable Pinkie promise', and the series of gestures that go with it! Ugh! But maybe a day or two of rest wouldn't hurt. Besides, she never said anything about my daily walks around the park, so I guess it'll all work out in the end.

"Hey, Ren!" Called out a voice of a filly — Sweetie Belle, from the sounds of it. I looked over at the CMC, and they had this look abot them; like they wanted something. Sweetie Belle trotted over towards me with an innocent look.

"Can I help you, Sweetie?" I asked.

"Would you like to play with us?"I haven't been able to spend much time with the CMC, since I've been busy with my search for the mages, and studying this land. I suppose that I could indulge them. Wouldn't be the first time that I played games with a group of children. Heh, these fillies have no idea how easy it'll be to seek them out, or how hard it'll be for them to find me.

"Sure," I offered a warm smile. The little ones cheered, and immediately took off for their ideal hiding places. I already figured that it'll be easy enough to find them, so I choose to give them an extra ten seconds. Only seemed fair. "One, two, skip a few, ten!" I shouted, and slowly walked over to the orchard of the apple trees, as if I were an animal stalking its prey.

Speaking of shouts... I waited until I had put some distance between me andther picnic site, and focused my Thu'um once again. This particular shout hasn't been all that useful in my search for the wizards, but it could be useful here.

"Lass Yah Nir," I whispered. My voice — my Thu'um — was no shout, but a whisper, that revealed the life force of all things, living or otherwise. It may seem like cheating, but we never made any restrictions before we started, now did we? Throughout the orchard, I discovered a vast amount of auras coming from the critters that dwelt within, but not of the three little girls. Sadly, my Thu'um ran out of time before I could find them, and I had been so focused on our little game that I failed to pay attention to my surroundings. If I were to hesitate a guess, I would say that I'm near the edge of town. And still no sign of the cutie mark crusaders.

As I prepared for another usage of Aura Whisper, I spotted a familiar structure; the club house. I haven't seen it since my first recovery in Ponyville hospital all those months ago. I wonder if they're hiding inside? I asked myself. Deciding to play fair — for now — and because curiosity got the better of me, I went to investigate the club house. Infiltrating the house would be easy, as I have... some experiences of breaking and entering. Let's just leave it at that.

Choosing to forgo the direct path, I decided to climb up a branch an enter through the window — which was currently opened. Why? Perhaps it was deception, to get me to check it rather then around the rest of the orchard. Still, this would be a likely place to start looking first. I hauled myself up and over the sturdy branch, and slowly stood up straight, peering inside the club house. It was abandoned; still, the climb up wasn't entirely a waste of time and effort. I now have a vantage point. With that in mind, I readied my Thu'um, once more. Until, that is, when I saw something from the corner of my eyes, moving through the trees. I squinted my eyes, trying to focus on it. It wasn't pony shaped. It looked humanoid; one of the rogue wizards, perhaps. Odd that I find another one, in the same area as before.

Stay sharp, Ren... I stayed perched on the branch, and surveyed the figure's every move. What was really odd about this person was the outfit; instead of robes that I had fully expected, this figure wore black jeans, and a black hoodie — something I would typically see back home. Could it be that someone else was trapped here, just like me? Screw observing, this demands investigation. I dropped from the branch, landing softly on the palms of my feet, and dashed towards some nearby shrubbery. There, I waited and watched as this unknown figure moved towards some unknown destination, and pursued after from a distance.

Whoever this person is, the path that he/she was following is the same one that led me to where the mage I encountered; the one that had cast the strange rune spell that I had absorbed. Looking back at that event, that mage must have created it by accident; it really had no ill effect on me. Although... There was the moment before I exited from the forest. I saw a dark figure back then, as well. And shortly after coming to a clearing, I fell unconscious near the well in the park. And, of course, there were the nightmares that plague me, and still do to this very day... It would always be of vampires, but for a while, it was mostly the same scene of a vampire feeding off of an unfortunate victim. And each time I had that particular nightmare, things would become more detailed — such as the victim. It was clearly a pony, though the first time I had this bad dream, I paid no attention.  All I knew at the time, was that I had to escape; the instant that I did, however, the monster was on me — its fangs ready to rip into me, to tear out my throat.

"Unslaad Krosis," I muttered under my breath. "There's no time to dwell on such things..."

I continued to follow the hooded figure, who was completely unaware of my pressence. The individual stopped, allowing me to survey the surrounding land. We had arrived at the exact place, where I had absorbed that spell. Why here? 

The hooded figure removed the hood, revealing long, curly dark hair — whether brown or black, it was hard to say. Turning around, I saw that it was a man, and that he sported a curly goatee, roughly a few centimeters long, and several piercings along his ears, and his nose. His skin, similar to the tan that I have on my face and on my forearms, was aligned with many frickles.

I gasped, instantly recognizing this man... There's no way that HE could be here... Myles. My old friend from childhood. But its impossible. I was there, at his funeral... His whole family was there! I watched his brother, Zack, give the eulogy and cried at the loss of his beloved brother; I watched as his father escorted him away with tears pouring from their eyes.

I remained hidden away, fearing that it could be an illusion, but mainly because I'm ashamed of myself. I never told him goodbye... Somone who was like a brother to me, and I never even said goodbye. Some friend I am.

From my hiding place, I watched as Myles stood there — as if he were patiently waiting for something to happen. I wanted to so badly run up to him, and embrace him, as any 'brother' should do, and tell him how much I missed him. But I restrained myself from ever moving. If this was an illusion, I couldn't bear losing him again. Nor did I believe that using Aura Whisper would make things better; all it would do is piss me off even worse than what I had ever experienced, since coming to Equestria.

From behind me, another figure made its way towards Myles. There wer no distinct features about this person, and all I could see was that it was a man, and he was holding somethinghidden on his person. This strange, shadowy figure continued to walk forward, reaching Myles after a couple of minutes. The strangest part about all of this, aside from seeing a friend return from the dead and a featureless individual, was the fact that I saw them visually moving their lips, yet I could hear nothing.

This memory...

From behind Myles, two more shadowy figures — another man, and the other a woman, from the looks of it - approched him. They weren't carrying anything on them, unlike the first one.

This memory...

The ones who approched Myles from behind grappled him, holding him by his arms, allowing the first shadowy figure to get in a few free hits across Myles's face. This relentless assult ended wit a punch to the gut. The ones holding him released their grips, and Myles fell hard to the ground.

And that's when I heard the sound of a man grunting and heething in pain. This memory; I wasn't present for this, but I did read the newspaper, and always visualized it happening like this for days. Weeks. Hell, months after the event. This was a memory from that newspaper article... The day that Myles was killed. But this couldn't be real. It has to be an illusion, right?

Each of the shadowy people... No. People don't do things like this. These were monsters, through and through. These monsters each took their turns beating  Myles, either kicking him across his face, or his rips, or even stomping him into the ground. And with every strike, he cried out in pain, begging for a mercy that never came... And I stood there. I just fucking stood there, watching this injustice take place right in front of me!

But I knew that this had to be an illusion... He's dead... But what if this was real? What if I could save him?

The Monsters picked him up, and threw him back down. I knew this next part. The first shadowy figure pulled out his consealed weapon; a firearm. Even after all of these years, I never forgot the looks of one. A 9mm magnum — a Judge. My heart froze in place, as I saw the murder weapon. I screamed for them to stop, but it was too late... I watched in shock and horror, as the monster pulled the trigger, unloading each shot into Myles.

My rage became too unbearable. I didn't care if this was an illusion any more — I didn't care if this was some kind of trap. I had just watched my friend die! Harnessing my magicka, I attempted - and succeeded — in summoning my bound sword, and charged at Myles's murderers, screaming a blood crazied scream filled with my unyielding rage. They would feel my wrath, my vengence, AND ALL OF MY ANGER!! Myles would be avenged!

"HE DIDN'T DESERVE TO DIE!!" I screamed.

I lunged at the trigger man, and brought my sword down upon him, and severed his hand. His blood splashed across the ground, with some going across my face. He cried out in agonizing pain, as his hand — and weapon — fell to lay beside Myles's body. And in that moment, my rage had taken hold of me, completely. 

Whirling around, I sliced open the former trigger man's belly, but didn't watch to see him bleed to death. Instead, I turned 
to focus my attention towards the other two. One of them attempted to reach for the gun, while the other tried to pry the blade from my hand. I headbutted my foe, causing her to become disoriented, thus freeing my sword arm. I raised my sword up high, and brought it down across her shoulder and chest region. She wabbled backwards, until she fell down, dead as a nail in a door.

The only one left was the monster that tried to reach for the gun. While he had succeeded, it wouldn't do him any service. No ammo. Still didn't stop him from trying to save his worthless hide. I smiled wickedly at him; I have something special in mind just for this last one.

With my free had, I channeled as much magicka as I could into my palm. My hand crackled with magical electictricity. Turning around, andtaking one step towards him, I grinned menacingly at his failed attempts, as he tried to fire his empty gun against me. With the magic in my hand, I rushed at him, bridging the distance between us, and I punched him across his face, knocking the murderer to the ground; an as he fell, I opened my hand, and unleashed a torrent of magical lightning upon him. His screams lasted only for a split second, as a bolt of lightning leapt forth from my palm to his wregged body. For a brief second, I swore I saw his skeletal structure before he desinticrated; I marveled in delight at the sight of his worthless husk turning into ash. With all of Myles's murderers dead, my lust for vengence had been fulfilled, but I wasn't content — not by a long shot. There was still one thing I wanted to do, before I could move on.

I channeled my reserves of magicka for one final relentless assult. Small icical fragments swirled around my hand, like a tiny blizzard; I walked back to where I had left the trigger man's body, and let loose a barge of ice shards into it. Six bullets in my friend, meant six ice shards in his chest, each of which severed a limb. I put an ice projectial into each of his limbs, a fifth one in his chest, and the last one I saved for his heart... But I knew that he didn't even had one.

It was done. My vengence had been sated. Sheething my blade, I headed over to Myles's body, and kneeled down to craddle his head. I haven't seen him in so long... He may have gotten involved with the wrong kind of people, but he was still as much of a brother to me, as my own kin. I studied his face and stared into his blank, lifeless eyes... As I did, my mind became filled with memories of the past, and all the good times that we had. Never in a million years did I ever thought that I would be put in a postition like this. I remember playing games, helping each other with our homework, exercises, or even just chilling out and having a good time with our small group of friends in the park, riding our bikes, or shootin' some hoops. Those are the kind of memories worth holding on to. My eyes became very watery, as I remembered the kindness and love I recieved from him an his family. When I learned what had happened to Myles, I immediantly checked up on his family, because they were close to me, as well. I remember the funeral very clearly; and the heart shattering message his brother Zack stated to all those who attended. Tears streamed down my face, as I recalled the message... Myles would have been an uncle.

I could no longer stand it — could no longer hold back my sorrow. I wept for te loss of a friend, a brother; and I continued to cry, letting the tears fall from my face, and land on his own. I didn't care if anyone could be watching me, I no longer cared... My best friend was gone. I wept silenly to myself, wishing beyond all hope that I could have seen him alive for one last time.

The snapping of a branch alerted me, and caused me to call upon my sword once more. But for the first time since I enrolled at the college of Winterhold, my summoning had failed; my ability to absorb magic had turned on me. Very well, if my attackers wanted a fight, then they shall have it! I gently placed Myles back down, and readied myself for battle. If conjuration wouldn't work, then I would raze the entire forest, with my Thu'um! I whirled around in the direction of my ambushers, and —

"Ren! Wait!" A familiar voice cried out to me. A filly... Scootaloo?

"Wha-What the?"

"Its us!" The young pegasus cried out again. My eyes widened upon realizing my actions; I was about to unleash my Thu'um on the cutie mark crusaders — three innocent little fillies! I managed to halt my actions, before it was too late — thank the divines. But th damage has already been dealt to my psyche. And as I fell down on my knees, I could hear them approaching me.

"What in the hay was dat all about?" Applebloom asked me, her voice carrying a hint of fear. "Ya walk past us, so we followed you an' we-"

"We saw everything," Sweetie Belle added. "You were attacking nothing but thin air, and screaming something about how 'he didn't deserve to die'." I remained silent for a time. The CMC waited patiently for me to respond, yet I chose to remain hushed.

"Who is 'he', Ren?" Scootaloo questioned me; she also gently placed her small hoof on my hand. I peered into her eyes, trying to hold back my tears. 

"My friend... A brother... A companion..." I went on, and on, and on with the list of all that Myles was to me, his friends, and his family. I averted my eyes fro the little fillies, and surveyed my surrondings; and I confirmed that they were right. There was nothing here. All that remained were the six shards of magical ice.

I stood up, and turned to look at Myles one last time, but as I did so, I immediately backed away from where I had last seen him, my eyes widen with realization. It was all false. An illusion, and I had fallen for it. The girls grew incredibly worried for me, and asked if they could help in anyway. But I didn't have the heart to tell them... to tell them of that fateful day. "...No. Let's go back." I said defeatedly.

"But Ren," the three of them pleaded in unison. I held up a hand to stop their pleas.

"No but..." I demanded. This didn't really seem to appease them, so I came up with an offer. "Look, if I tell you about what happened here, will you three promise not to talk about it to anypony else?" They provided me with an answer, by nodding their little heads. "Thank you. I'll tell you everything at breakfast, this weekend at my place. Now, please... I'm tired, and wish to go home."

We eventually made our way back to the picnic site, where the others were already packing up, for the evening. Pinkie Pie beamed with excitement over our return.

"Took you long enough to find them, Renny." She giggled playfully. I was in no mood for her humor, and grunted as I walked away from them all. I didn't even stop to see who was all there, not even to see if Starlight had returned. I just wanted to go home and sleep. I heard a set of trotting hooves catching up to me from behind. Glancing over my shoulder, I saw her moving swiftly to be by my side, but that wasn't all that I noticed. Daring was approaching me as well, albeit at a slower pace than what Starlight was. 

"Is something wrong, hon?" Starlight asked with growing concern ringing in her voice.

"I'll tell you later." And that was the end of that conversation. She understands that some times, I don't like talking about certain things — same with her. We give each other our space when we need it, and whenever one of us is ready to discuss something, we would let the other know. We remained silent, while walking back to my house.

"H-hey, wait up." Daring's distant voice reached my ears. I stopped moving forward, and turned to face her, but still remained hushed. 

"What is it, Daring?" Starlight asked.

"I-I was just wondering if he was alright." Daring didn't take her eyes off of me. 

"I'm sure he is, but I—"

"I'm fine." I interrupted. An before either of them could ask me if I was sre, I had already started back for my home. I can only hope that I can sleep well tonight; the blank stare of Myles's eyes staring back at me filled me with dread, and made me feel like I would be forever haunted by his empty gaze. It felt like he was judgingme, asking me why... Why didn't I help him? Why did I never say goodbye? Reaching my home, I allowed more tears to roll down my face, as I remembered his family... I miss them all.