> The Smiling Warrior
>  by The Storyteller world
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> A New Beginning (minor edits)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Where to start, where to start. Ah screw it from the beginning is probably best." The man said as he started writing on the paper. My name is Jack Teller, A simple man who lived an ok life till one good deed went punished.



Walking down the busy city street most people learn to zone out and ignore the hussle and bussle of the people. Not Jack though he always enjoy watching people and hearing what goes on like how the lady who owns the flower shop talks to her pet canary as she waters the plants, or the business man who walks the same route same steps every single day. Then one day as he was people watching, a noise started getting louder and louder. Now you'd think in a city as big as this one it would be normal but this sounded different, something was off.

After finishing that thought thats when Jack saw it. A truck was flying down the road, It was obvious the driver had lost control and as he speed past people scrambled to dive out of the way.

Then he saw her. A little girl couldn't have been older then seven was frozen in fear as the truck speed closer.  He didn't even have time to think as his body worked on instinct sprinting for the girl.  He got in time to push her to safety.

Unfortunately though Jack didn't have enough time to do the same for himself. He died almost on impact with the truck but then again he's had worse things try to kill him. He could feel his life slipping away as his body stopped tumbling. Jack saw the girl being held by her crying mother and... he smiled.



" Come on Spike we're going to be late for the festival!" Twilight shouted up the stairs. 

"I'm hurrying as fast as I can Twi." came a reply. Descending the steps two at a time brought Spike quickly to the bottom and in front of Twilight. "Ready when you are princess!" Spike said with a salute and cheeky grin. Rolling her eyes Twilight turned to the door turning it open with a flick of her hand then quickly walking out with a purple dragon close behind. "Whats so special about this festival?" asked Spike "Isn't it just another one?" 

"Well Spike, to answer your question, its special as its the first eclipse festival in over a thousand years. 
The last one happened before Luna's banishment so this is an important showing that she's back and good again." Twilight stated matter of factly. 

" Didn't we show that already nightmare night a few years ago?" Spiked asked scratching his head still following behind 

"Yes but there are still some who aren't fully on board yet including some nobles back in Canterlot." Twilight said with a frown "Any ways come on the girls are waiting for us." she said as they continued to the center of town.



Cold...really cold. Jack thought as he opened his eyes to a blank room. Sitting up and looking around he could tell he was in what looked like a large empty room save for a chair and a figure in robes. " Ah your awake." It said clasping it hands together above a book. 

Ok... it's a he from that voice. Makes it easier to not misidentify him. " Hello, My names-" Jack tried to say.

"Oh you needn't tell me I already know who you are." The figure said with a chuckle, patting the book on his lap he finally looked up revealing a masked face. Like something you'd see in a performance or play for a mystery storyteller. 

"And who might you be exactly?" Jack inquired putting on a smile to be more friendly with the strange man.

"Oh who I am isn't important BUT what I can do for you is." the man said lifting up the book "You see I've been reading this here story and its been entertaining so far but there isn't really a good hero in it and considering your position what being freshly dead and all, I figured you'd like a chance at a new life. Right in the book." The man said with a tap on the cover. 

Jack looked at him confused "What do you mean new life in a book?" He asked tilting my head 

"Well to explain." He said snapping his fingers. As the room began to shift and change, book shelves springing up. "Every world has a book to it that I can read and look at. You know, see how things are going and occasionally some worlds just become dull or less interesting to me liiikkkeee this one." He said pulling one from the many shelves "Its all war this war that in this world and nothing new. Just boooring." He said twirling the book around before slotting it back in. " But!" He exclaimed " Every now and then an interesting soul travels past that I know would be just the trick to spice up the story."

"And that's were I come in isn't it?" Jack replied walking behind the strange robed man through the long corridor of book cases.

"Exactly now you are getting it!" He shouted with a laugh "So are you interested in stirring up a new story?" 

If the man had eyes Jack could imagine them filled with hopeful glee. Jack put a hand to his chin and thought for a second. "Eh sure I got nothing else to do what with being dead and all. What do I need to do?"  he asked. 

" My boy all you need to do is sleep" He whispered as Jack's vision faded out, slipping into a empty dream.



Jack woke up in a weird forest like area. After he checked himself out he noticed a weird mark on his wrist almost like a lion and rabbit running after each other around it. Giving a shrug he took a more detailed looked at his surroundings and saw the trees thin to his right. "Well hope it leads somewhere." He thought as he began walking out. Just reaching the clearing revealed a small town with little houses and what looked like a large crystal castle near the middle with a massive orchard on the outskirts. " Hm, weird look but this is a different world after all." He muttered to himself, continuing onward towards the town that is till the screams started. 



Dinky wandered around in a haze after the monsters attacked the town. The Main 6 were busy fighting them and the guards were rushing to get others to safety. Dinky had already gotten a scratch on her arm from the sudden attack and was looking for her mom when she heard it. The low, terrifying growl of one of the monsters behind her causing her to turn slowly and freeze. The beast took one step forward then another and another till it reached a full sprint and pounced at her making her shriek while covering her face hoping to protect herself somewhat. That is until she heard it suddenly slide to a stop. 

Looking up that's when she saw him. "Hello little one, is this little beasty causing you trouble." Said the creature as it held the monsters head, keeping it from moving forward. "Here let me handle this." It said with a bright smile as it swung its fist into the beasts face sending it flying back. 

"Who are you mister?' Dinky asked wide eyed at the show of strength. 

"Why I'm your every day joe doing his good deed of the day!" It said with a laugh as it charged after the beast. Running closer he started noticing the details of his opponent. It looked like a lion with a scorpions tail. "Looks like a manticore from some of those mythology books I read back in college at home." Jack thought to himself as he dodged out of the way from swipe thrown by the creature and returning with a swift kick to its head but not before the animal quickly took a scratch at his arm, tearing his shirt in the process when the manticore whipped back around. " Ah that was my favorite shirt. Bad kitty no, no." He reprimanded wagging his finger at it still with the smile on his face. 

"Watch out!" He heard shouted from the little girl, causing him to turn and duck narrowly avoiding the tails jab at his head. 

"Thank you." He replied. Quickly thinking he grabbed hold of it and began spinning around as the manticore fought to stay on the ground, eventually lifting off and being flung it into the side of the fountain of a tall mare with the sun in her hands. 
"Oops, hope that wasn't important." Jack thought cringing a little as the pieces fell down on the monster. The beast quickly got up and charged him sending a flurry of claws striking fast than he could fully block, drawing crimson blood across his body.  "I need to end this fast or I won't have the chance to have fun in this world."  Jack thought as he caught a paw and tucking his shoulder under its chest and with a heave flipping it over, stomping down a few times on its head till he heard a satisfying crack and the beast stopped moving.

Looking over he saw the little girl or rather thing staring at him holding her arm. " Come here little one." He said gesturing towards him as he walked closer. " Whats your name?" He asked after she got close enough for him to look at her arm. Tearing off scrap from his shirt or what remained of it, he began working on the wound.

" D-Dinky..." She replied shakily all while trying not to pull away as he worked on her arm.

"What a lovely name. Pleasure to meet you Dinky, I'm Jack Teller but you can call me Jack" He said finishing the makeshift bandage " There, that should hold till you get some real care." He said standing up but wobbling around. Luckily Dinky caught him before he could face plant the ground.

" Are you ok Jack?" She asked concern written all over her face. Before he could respond a orange fist connected with his jaw knocking him clean out.
> New world, New roommates (Moderate editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"We are seriously linked to this guy, Are you kidding me?" Said a distant voice ending with a growl.

"Oh don't be such a picky baby he's literally the first creature in a couple centuries not to blow up from the power we put out." A different voice stated. This one more higher pitched.

As Jack began to regain consciousness, He could tell both were male but couldn't see them just yet. As the blurs continued to argue between each other Jacks vision finally focus. " Ow, my head." He whined, holding his head. "Feels like I got hit with a sledgehammer." 

"Well you might as well have with how hard she hit you." One of the characters in front of Jack replied causing Jack to look up.

What he finally registered was a tall thin rabbit looking man with a smile on his face and lion who did not look the least bit happy at Jack in front of him. "AAAHHHHH! Who the hell are you guys" Jack shouted trying to back pedal but bumping into the wall.

The tall rabbit winced "Mind not yelling to loud I got sensitive ears." He asked rubbing his long fluffy ears. "And to answer your question, I'm Lucky and this grump old cat is Brave. We're your new roommates up here." He said tapping the side of his head with a smile.

"Wait, you guys are inside my head?" Jack asked calming down seeing as they weren't attacking him. 

"Are you even listening to us." Brave snarled, Baring his teeth at Jack. He stopped though after a moment to breath and calm himself back down " It's just we are in a bad situation and I'm not in the mood to deal with Luck's attitude." 

Looking around Jack started to notice he was in a room similar to a hospital ward. "Where am I?" He asked, noticing some beeping machines.

"A hospital after your fight with the manticore and getting punched.' Replied Brave "Though we wouldn't be like this if Lucky could have made you faster." He said shooting a glare at the rabbit in question.

"Me?! It's your fault for not making him strong enough to beat up the monster faster. Lucky shot back after taking a moment to put a hand to his chest and making an offended face.

"Hold it!" Jack shouted already knowing another argument was about to break out if he didn't get between them. Putting on his best smile to calm them down he asked " How about we start from the beginning. I barely know you guys and i'd like to at least know who the people sharing my head now are."

Giving a humph to Lucky, Brave looked at Jack"We are Omegas. Ancient spirits that find new hosts to make new heroes for the gods like the one that sent you to this new world." He stated "I am one such Omega that specializes in strength and fighting while THIS toothpick specializes in speed and agility." gesturing over to Lucky. 

"Together we make the best heroes around. Our last one being a guy named Hercules from your world." Lucky added with a wave of his hand, fading into nothing.

"Next time we meet training will start so we can avoid an incident like the manticore." Brave finished with a frown, crossing his arms as he faded away.

Jack snapped towards the noise to see a white colored creature in a nurse outfit walk towards him. She looked to be about 5'5" with pink hair in a somewhat tidy bun. "Hm, kind of cute." Jack thought taking in her average figure. What really caught his attention were the large guards following behind her in gold armor. "Am I that scary that guards are needed Miss?" Jack asked putting on his best "I'm innocent" look to hopefully not scare them.

"Oh you can talk?" The nurse said with a start. Even the guards showed signs of surprise on their faces before going back to stoic statues "My name is nurse Red Heart. I'll be checking your vitals and see how you are doing Mister..." she said trailing off at the end leaving an opening for me to reply.

"Jack, Jack Teller. It's a pleasure to meet you." Jack said sticking his arm out for a shake before pulling it back quickly when the guards reached for their weapons. "Sorry, sorry I guess it is weird to see someone like me around." Jack added with a weak chuckle rubbing the back of his head.

"And what exactly ARE you Mister Teller?" Red Heart asked looking over the machines strapped to Jack and giving him a look over ignoring the guards reaction.

"I'm a human Miss Red Heart and you can just call me Jack. No real need for formalities with me." He replied "Could I ask the same question of what you all are?"

"Why, I'm a pony and you can call me Red Heart dear." She said all while undoing Jacks bandages to see how his wounds were coming along. "Ah good your wounds are all healed and there appears to be no scaring either. Your body reacts well with magic even if the doctors had to use a little more to actually affect you." She stated with a satisfied nod of her head.

"So does that mean I'm clear to get out of this bed then? Or do I have to get the go ahead from the guys behind you?" Jack asked looking at them.

Finally after a moment of waiting one of the guards replied " The princesses will be notified you are awake and they will decide what happens next." 

"Wait, princesses as in royalty. Oh I do NOT look good enough. I haven't even had a bath yet I probably smell horrible!" Jack shouted worry written all over his face. He began to look around as well after he noticed he was only wearing an admittedly breezy gown. "Um, Miss where are my clothes?" Jack asked looking for them.

"Well your shirt was completely destroyed but as for your other articles of clothing they are right here." She said pulling open a drawer to reveal his pants and socks. Then reaching down she pulled up his boots he had been wearing as well.

"Um can I have some privacy to change at least?" Jack asked sheepishly to the guards putting on a weak smile.

The guards looked to each other and after muttering between themselves looked back and gave a single nod "You have five minutes to change before we come back in." One said turning around and walking out followed by Red Heart who gave him a final smile and wave then finally the last guard.

Jack took a second to get his nerves under control before getting out of bed and putting his clothes on or at least the ones he had. Taking a look around he noticed a mirror above a sink. Walking over he splashed some water on his face to freshen up a bit before he caught sight of his face in the mirror. Now Jack wasn't one to care about how nice he looked but he did take notice in his feature. He had a decent bit of hair on his head that all his old friends would joke he'd never go bald. Sharp almost almond shaped eyes with brown iris's along with high cheek bones and strong looking jaw. As he looked back at himself he thought of a joke his mom would always tease him about.

"You could have been a model!" she'd shout " But nooooo you just had to be two inches to tall." She'd say with a laugh, always tease him about his height standing at 6'5". Turns out the cut off for most agencies was 6'3" but he never liked the idea of modeling anyway. After cleaning his face and checking for stubble even though he couldn't grow a beard to save his life he began to look at his body. He was fit and had a good bit of muscle he'd gained from the various jobs he had worked but he definitely wasn't some mountain of a man. He quickly turned around though when he heard the door open to reveal one of the guards from early in the door way.

"Follow me and put this on." He commanded throwing Jack a white shirt that looked to be one size to big. 

As he slipped it on he followed behind staying silent but keeping a smile on his face to avoid making anyone worry. Another thing his mom always joked about along with his siblings was that he had serious resting bitch face whenever he didn't smile. Shaking his head he focused back on the present just as they rounded a corner and entered the lobby of the hospital were he saw what could only be described a a crayon box of colored ponies the most notable being the two that stood what he could guess at eight feet tall. The crowns and jewels they wore also helped him figure they were the princesses the guards had spoke of. 

"Hello, you must be Jack Teller." The white colored princess said in a motherly tone taking a few steps towards him. "I am Princess Celestia." She had hair the color of light pinks, blues, and greens flowing in a nonexistent breeze and a figure that would put any super model on earth to shame. It didn't help him focus with how tight her dress was on her accenting her large bust and long thick legs.

Jack took a gulp and responded back "Yes your highness but you can call me Jack. I'm not one for fancy etiquette you could say." He weakly chuckled forcing his eyes to stay on her face.

"So he does speak." He heard from a woman with purple fur and hair jotting down notes faster then he thought possible. "I'm Twilight Sparkle." She said rushing up to him with an almost hungry glint in her eyes "You're a human correct? That's what Red Heart said, what are your people like? Can they use magic? How advanced is your civilization?" She asked rapid fire.

"OHOHOHdoyoulikepartieshowaboutcakeormaybepiehowaboutwhensyourbirthday?" another one asked, this one pink with a head of hair that seemed to defy the laws of physics with how her hair was moving. Both got quickly dragged back by a yellow light surrounding them.

"Now now girls I know you have a lot of questions but lets not overwhelm the poor thing."  Celestia said "Now Jack what do you know about our world so far and how did you get here?" She inquired with a raised brow.

"Um you guys are ponies and that I'm in Equestria as far as I know." Jack said breathing a little easier with the two ponies not so close to him now, he then explained how he had died and been moved here. "Oh and to answer your guys's questions yes I'm a human, it depends on what culture you look at to see what we are like, no we can't use magic, and we've been to the moon a few times so decently advanced. And as for yours." Jack said turning towards the pink ball of energy "Yes I like parties but I haven't been to many, yes I like both cake and pie, and my birthday is April 21." He finished "Um random question but what happened to that little girl?" 

As if on queue the door to the hospital opened and in walked Dinky who gasped and quickly ran up to Jack before anyone could protest. Following behind her came a woman Jack can only assume was her mother. "You're okay mister!" Dinky shouted hugging his waist.

"Ah perfect timing Dinky. How is your arm?" Jack asked forgetting about everyone else for a second to return her hug and crouch down to see her better.

Rolling up her sleeve revealed three thin scratches on her up arm." It's healing ok but now I have these cool scars." She said jumping up and down.

"My you are right they do look cool. Perfect for a brave girl like you." Jack said with a laugh as he ruffled her hair "And I imagine this is your mother correct?" He asked turning to the woman or mare in question.

She seemed like an average woman about 5'4" with a gold mane and slightly crossed eyes. Her body had moderate curves and average bust. "Yes, my names Ditzy but everyone calls me Derpy. I can't thank you enough for saving my daughter from that manticore." She said quickly hugging the man.

"It was nothing ma'am anyone would have tried to do the same." Jack replied trying to stay modest. "But um does anyone know who the person was that punched me?" He asked looking around the room till his eyes fell on the orange mare covering her face with her hat. She looked to be about 5'10" he could also tell she worked a labour job from her muscles showing past her flannel tied just above her midriff and daisy dukes showing strong well build legs topping off the look finally with cowboy boots and the Stetson hat.

"Yeah ah'm real sorry bout that. I thought yall's was anotha monster trying to attack little Dinky over here. My names Applejack by the way." She said looking up with a blush on her face "Also yall probably want to know who we are. Ah'm Applejack like I just said. I run the apple family farm." 

"I'm Rainbow Dash, the fastest flyer ever and future wonderbolt. I'm also the person that will kick your plot if you try anything funny." Rainbow said with scratchy voice followed with a glare and jab at his chest. She looked to be the shortest out of the bunch at maybe 5' even with a body like a sprinter. Lean and fit were the two words that came to Jacks head looking at her. He could also call her a Pegasus from the wings on her back.

Next to approach him was a white unicorn judging by the horn on her head. "My name is Rarity." She said with a posh voice striking him as a upper class lady. She walked with a graceful step in a fine blouse shirt and dress pants showing she knew what fashion was with how well it complemented her figure. Where Applejacks was fit and built with muscle Rarity's was still fit but with just the right cushion to draw the eyes where she wanted them to go.

Sticking her hand out Jack gently grabbed it and with a slight bow kissed the top of it."It's a pleasure to meet your acquaintance m'lady." He said with a smile and a wink at her causing her to blush and let a small laugh out.

"Good to know you aren't some barbarian and have some proper manners unlike some people. "She replied with a look over at Rainbow dash who frowned and turned her head away. "My friend over there is Fluttershy, you'll have to forgive her if she doesn't seem to like you as she is easily scared. "Rarity stated pointing over to a soft yellow and pink haired mare hiding behind Applejack though it didn't help she was taller at maybe 6' and had what could be only described as a mothers figure with ample bust and large hips in a sundress. 

Jack nodded in her direction "I'm terribly sorry if I scare you Fluttershy. I promise you I mean no harm. "Jack said putting on a easy face and making his admittedly deep voice sound more gently. It did the trick as she stopped cowering fully looking over Applejacks shoulder and gave a slight nod. The moment was quickly ruined by a pink blur slamming him to the ground. When he finally looked up he say the pink pony from earlier straddling his waist and pressing her large chest to his making him blush.

"Hi, my names Pinkie Pie I bet we will be the best of friends especially after I get your 'Welcome to Ponyville' party together." She said in one breath. She had a larger figure then the others but Jack could tell she wasn't fat if anything the word to describe her was cuddle-able. 

A purple aura lifted her as she struggled to hug him again. "Sorry about that." The purple pony said, "My name is Twilight Sparkle, Celestias Protege, and the princess of friendship." Twilight said after moving Pinkie Pie far enough away. She looked like what you'd imagine a cute, dorky librarian would be like with a vest over a button up and pencil skirt. He put her at 5'4" tall with an average body type like Derpy's. "And this is my number one assistant Spike." Gesturing to a...

"HOLY CRAP IS THAT A DRAGON!" Jack shouted as Spike came into view. "That's so wicked!" He shouted as he got closer to Spike looking him over, "Dude can you breath fire?? And look at these claws and those teeth. You are badass!" He said.

Spike was shocked at first at the shouting but quickly laughed "Yeah I can breath fire, Watch." He said before quickly taking a breath and shooting a small green flame out. Jack stood there with a massive grin on his face after seeing that.

"You are one of the COOLEST things I've seen so far here man." Jack said still with the wide grin on him.

"And finally there's me." Came a voice behind him as the second eight foot tall princess walked forward. "I am Princess Luna." She proclaimed with an air of confidence. She matched in height Celestia if not slightly shorter with midnight blue fur and a starry night like mane. Her figure wasn't as large as Celestias but definitely not to be scoffed at. 

Jack quickly bowed to her before looking back up "It's a pleasure to meet you all but umm where am I going to be staying and where can I get new clothes?" He asked sheepishly rubbing the back of his head. "I can't exactly live in the hospital."

"No you can't which is why you'll be staying with Twilight for the rest of your stay till we figure out more about you." Celestia stated looking down at him.

"Well I guess no day like the present. Come on I have so many questions to ask you!" Twilight exclaimed dragging him out the door followed by every one but Luna and Celestia both with looks of worry on their face.

"You saw the marks on his wrist didn't you sister." Luna asked looking to Celsetia.

"Yes, I hope it isn't what I think it is." Celestia replied before walking out the door.
> Questions and Answers Leaving Only More Questions (Moderate editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Twilight." Jack said being dragged by the excited girl though he could tell that didn't get past her rampant mumblings most he couldn't understand. "Twilight." He said again louder, nope still didn't work ok one last go. "TWILIGHT!" He exclaimed finally catching the purple mares attention.

"Oh, Jack I'm sorry I guess I got a little too excited." She said meekly kicking at the ground and looking up with puppy dog eyes.

"Damn she's cute." Jack thought to himself, "Listen don't worry about it but remember I'm new here, lets take it slow maybe show me around first before we get into the interrogation." Jack said with a laugh patting her head causing Twilights ears to flick around. Hearing footsteps behind him he saw the rest of the group finally catching up to them. Some out of breath from the run.

"Geez Twi I know he's a new thing to study but could you slow down, Flutters is dying over here." Rainbow said gesturing to the gasping pony in question.

"Sorry guys Jack already told me to slow down. He also suggested we show him around." Twilight replied looking at the group sheepishly

"Oh Oh can I take him to Sugarcube Corner first!" Pinkie asked sticking her arm up and waving it around hopping in place causing her bust to bounce with her making Jack blush and cough to the side.

As if summoned to speak Jacks stomach growled out alerting everyone of his situation. "They wouldn't happen to have food there would they?"  Jack asked hopefully with a chuckle, looking at the group as they laughed with him.

Applejack stepped forward ahead of the group and gestured with a swing of her arm. "Come on yall. Let's get this guy some grub before he faints on us." She said marching on, the group quickly following behind. Applejack slowed her pace enough to get next to Jack. "So, you seem to be handling this whole dying and new world thing pretty well sugar, got some special secret why?" She asked looking at him as they walked. The other girls focus on him after hearing the question their own curiosity peaking.

"Well not really a secret as more of a mind set. You see, when I was younger I got in a fight that almost killed me but I pushed through." Jack stated while stretching his arm. "After I got out of the hospital I started looking at how my life was and what I had done so far and realized I wasn't living my full potential. One of my siblings when I brought it up to them made me make a promise with them ,as they know I despise those who don't keep important promises, that from then on I'd always look to the positive ways of things no matter the situation." Jack said all while keeping that smile on his face.

"Is that why you smile so much." Fluttershy asked softly. "Um that is if you want to answer that is...." She said trailing off at the end and hiding behind her hair once more.

"No" Jack said, the smile on his face shrinking a little as a sadness crept across his eyes. "That's for a different promise. One just as important as the one I told you already." He finished a frown finally taking up his features as he looked at the ground. Shaking his head the smile returned. "But that's for another time." He stated marching past the girls to a large gingerbread house with a sign saying Sugarcube Corner.

The girls looked at each other with frowns on their face and questions behind their eyes before following the weird man. On entering they already found him chatting with Mrs.Cake and the twins all laughing at some joke he told them the girls had just missed.

"Well it's a pleasure to meet you Jack. Would you care to try some sweets? They are fresh baked." Mrs.Cake asked looking to the tall man. 

Jack's stomach growling to show its vote in the matter. "I'd love that ma'am though I don't exactly have any money to pay you for them." He replied pulling out his pockets to show them empty.

"Dear you need not worry about a thing. I heard what you did for Dinky taking on that manticore all by yourself. Consider this on the house as a thank you." Mrs. Cake said with a dismissive wave shutting down any protest by Jack as she put some tarts and donuts on a tray and handed it to him.

Jack thanked the kind mare, taking the tray to a booth and after one bite was scarfing it down as fast as his body would allow. The others watching him from a distance, their jaws hanging open with mixed looks of awe or disgust from how fast he was eating except for Pinkie who skipped over to Jack. "So how do you like the food here?" Pinkie asked tilting her head to the side with a giggle.

An almost animal like groan of pleasure escaped the man before diving back into the food with increased vigor causing the pink mare to giggle louder as she took a seat next to Jack. The others quickly followed suit sitting at the booth as he polished off the last of the culinary masterpieces he had just destroyed.

Wiping his face he smiled weakly at the group. "Sorry, sweets are kind of my weakness. I Just can't control myself when I taste one and these are literally the best I've ever had." He said licking the last bits of frosting off his face. "Anyways I guess now would be a good time as any to ask more questi-" He never got to finish as a magenta hand slammed down on the table and a blade pressed to his neck.

"Tempest what in Celestia's name do you think you are doing!" exclaimed Twilight at the sudden violent action.

"What am I doing? What are you all doing with this weird creature? He could be a threat." Tempest shot back pressing the knife harder to Jacks neck

Jack rolled his eyes and looked as best as he could at the offending mare in question. "Hm new creature surrounded by friends why don't we say hi to them. Nah, lets put a knife to their throat and threaten them yeah that works." Jack sarcastically said slowly pushing the knife away with a finger after tempest looked at him with with a surprised reaction to him speaking. "Listen, I know I'm not the norm here but mind asking questions first, and attack later please."

Tempest grunted before sheathing the blade and pulling a seat up. "Fine then how about who and what are you." She asked glaring at the man.

He answered her question along with a few he figured would be asked. He decided it would be best to leave out the part about the Omegas sharing his head and giving him super powers. Twilight was writing so fast at one point the group thought the pad would catch fire, even Spike started leaning away from her. Finally at the end Jack leaned forward splaying out his hands to the group with a quirked eyebrow. "Any new questions?" He asked looking around.

"How about what did you do before you came here?" Spike said this caused even Rainbow who was bored out of her skull to perk up a little.

"Well lots of things actually, like one of my first ever jobs was working a farm with animals then came sports and eventually learning new fighting styles from around the world." Jack said tracing a finger on the table. On hearing that part he finally got Rainbows full attention and even gaining a look from Tempest. "Then came designing and exploring, did a brief time as a soldier when some small wars broke out." That last part earning a grimace on his face and a flash in his eyes not lost on Tempest before it disappeared. "Medical practice and other less exciting things. Ahaha actually a nickname my friends gave me was Jack of all trades with how good at everything I was." Jack said laughing at the corniness of it even getting some of the girls and Spike to laugh as well.

Everyone asked questions about his life and what his world was like. All seemed well till Tempest spoke up again. "You said you were a soldier correct?" 

"Yes for a time." Jack said, nodding at Tempest. A feeling of what was about to come next creeping up his neck.

"Then have you ever killed?" Tempest said staring into Jacks eyes judging his reaction. The mood at the table immediately dropped as the others began to watch the tension in the air thickening. Tempest giving no further words as the two stared down each other.

Twilight tried to interject. "Now there's no reason to ask something like that. I'm sure Jacks never had to-"

"Yes." The voice coming from Jack but to the people around it was as if a stranger said it and not the happy, smiling man just a moment ago. The room chilled as some of the girls looked at him in worry and horror even Applejack and Rainbow were tense waiting to see if they would have to jump in and stop him if he lashed out. Yet... He didn't. "I have killed before but let me make something absolutely clear I never took ever an ounce of pleasure from it. I was ordered by my superiors to fight and kill if need be and I did." The strangers voice still coming from Jack. "I see ever single person who's life I have taken and I will remember all of them to my last breath, I do my best to avoid conflict, I prefer talking situations down to stop violence." More of the voice they knew of Jack started to creep back in. The girls reactions slowly changing as he talked more. "If you could send me back in time with a way to avoid killing those people you wouldn't be able to stop me from taking up that offer but you can't so I will continue to carry these memories as a lesson to myself to be better." He finally finished the strange voice from before gone as he looked at the table.

"I think it's best if we get you to the castle and into your room to sleep." Twilight said, "We can talk more tomorrow, right girls?" She stated looking at the group her eyes lingering on Tempest just a little longer then the others. 

As the group got up and went their separate ways Tempest stopped and turned to Jack. "I'm sorry I shouldn't have asked." She said about to turn away 

"Don't be. Soldiers recognize Soldiers." Jack said but something under it made Tempest shake as if it knew something the others didn't.
> Training Starts Now! (Minor editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The walk to the castle was a sober one with none of the small remaining group saying a word. Not to say that all their minds were quiet as well. Twilight especially was going slightly crazy at the new info she'd just learned moments ago. "He's killed before and I'm about to have him staying over in my HOME!" One side of her head exclaimed. "But he's been so nice and friendly. He even jumped in the way to save Dinky without a second thought or worry for himself. We should give him a chance at least." The other side said back hoping to calm her mind down. Shaking her head she decided she'd learn more about Jack before judging him especially after his reaction when he answered that question.

Spike was busy wondering what kind of skills Jack could show him to how to fight. Spike always was the one left behind when danger came around but he's a dragon for Celestia's sake. He should be with the girls helping beat down bad guys and saving people in distress... and maybe help him get an actual date. "He has to know how to talk better then me." Spike thought thinking back to when he made the decision to stop chasing Rarity when it became clear she saw him more as just a friend or even little brother.

Jack was busy trying to talking with the Omegas stuck in his head. "Yo Lucky, you in here!" He shouted into his head.

"Hey man what can your old pal do for you." Came the response as a ghostly version of the tall rabbit appeared next to Jack with his hands on the back of his head, kicking his legs out in a mocking march.

"Ok that shows you now where is Brave? I have some questions for you guys." Jack said inside his mind looking around till Brave appeared on his other side the same grumpy look on his face.

"What do you need to know cub." Brave growled out keeping a ridged soldiers march.

Jack started to notice the pairs outfit choice. Where Lucky was sleek and somewhat padded leather with a hood,Braves was a full suit of armor with pauldrons the shape of lion heads. After giving both a look over Jack shrugged. "I remember you saying something about training. How exactly is that going to work?" He asked lifting a brow.

"When you sleep we will take you into a dreamscape where we will mold you in fire and pain to become the ultimate Hero!" Brave shouted clenching his fists in front of him as small flames erupted from his armor putting on the appearance of a massive flaming lion.

"What the little puddy cat means is when you go to sleep we can interact with you better and train you to better control the powers we provide either through simple lifting of items for strength or running courses for speed. And don't worry we wont throw you into hell like areas till you have hold of your powers... at least not yet." Lucky explained scratching at his cheek with a mischievous smile on his face.

Jack looked between the two before shaking his head. "Well guess I'm not getting any decent rest then, but wait where do I get gear like you guys?" He asked pointing at the two's load outs.

"Oh this. When you get enough experience and magic built up you can form these type of things onto yourself though it's different for each person. Lucky answered with a spin to show off his outfit as it shifted to more solid armor or flowing robes

He looked at Lucky wide eye'd as his outfit shifted but before he could ask more questions Twilight coughed into her fist to catch his attention. "Sorry, did you need something Twilight." Jack said looking to the Purple mare in question.

"No, just figured you'd like to know we are home now." She stated levitating the door to the castle open. She moved inside quickly followed by Spike as. He took a moment to marvel at the massive crystal building in front of him. The light catching just right to send small rainbows around the entire area. "Jack, hurry up we have to catch you up on the rules and laws here!" Twilight shouted from inside the castle.

Jack rushed inside finding Spike down a hall waving for him to follow. On entering the room he couldn't help but let out a gasp at the size of the library. Books lined every wall, ten rows of massive shelves down the hall on either side of the door and that was just what Jack could see. Who knew what else was in here. "Twilight you never told me you had an archive in your home." Jack said squealing with glee as he bounced in one spot before rushing over to a shelf and looking at some of the titles. 'Daring Do in: The crypt of the Ice King', 'Doctor Dockter's medical breakthrough in cutiepox', 'Dancing For Dummies'. "Hm hey Twilight this one seems really worn down what gives?" Jack asked pulling out that last book.

Twilight quickly pulled it from his grip with her magic and gave a quick shot of laughter turning to hide her blush. "Oh you know the little foals get nervous before some dances and want to learn how to dance so they don't embarrass themselves." Twilight quickly said putting the book down on a table near her. "Anyways!" She said in a sing song voice changing the subject. "We need to get you up to speed on the laws and regulations in Equestia." Pulling books from around the room with her magic and with some help from Spike eventually a decent stack was on the table next to Jack. "There, this should help you at least get a basis on the History, Economy, and Laws of the land. Any questions before we get into it?" Twilight said putting her hands on her hips and letting a smile get on her face.

"Just one." Jack said raising a finger. "Where can I find more of these types of books when I'm done?" Pointing to the pile.

"You'll find a detailed list of whats in each shelf on the side of the shelves." Twilight replied before picking up a book and getting into the lecture. "So the best place to start would be history. Back before-"




The lectures went on for the rest of the day broken up only when Spike came back with sandwiches for them to eat and even then Twilight kept going, detailing every little thing that happened or giving more context to passages in the books. Jack did his best to understand everything while asking questions when appropriate. Honestly, he had to admit Twilight was fantastic at this always having an answer, if not being able to then find the right book that did. Time flew by till they both reached the end of it all.

"And now finally relationships or families. How are they in your world Jack?" Twilight asked looking to the human.

"Well majority of countries had relationships as monogamy but a few scattered areas allowed polygamy though it wasn't widely used as the ratio between male and female is close to fifty-fifty." He replied looking up from the most recent book Twilight had handed him.

"Good thing I asked, See polygamy isn't frowned upon here in fact its in encouraged as the female to male ratio is 6-1 since the birthrate of stallions is much lower." Twilight said pointing to a graph she'd pulled out. "That's where our next point lays, see we don't call it polygamy we instead say herding. Most of the time it's one stallion and two or more mares though it most certainly isn't unheard of for couples to on keep it one stallion and one mare, for example my parents." She stated flipping the graph to show a picture of Twilight with her parents and another stallion with white fur and blue mane. 

"Hey Twi, who's the guy there." Jack asked pointing to the mystery stallion in question.

Twilight turned to the photo and gave a small laugh. "Silly, that's my brother Shining. He used to be captain of the royal guard till he married my old foal sitter Cadance. Now they rule the Crystal Empire together." She said before turning back to Jack. "But back on track, now you know how relationships work. Understand both consenting parties can start courting the other but you are not forced to say yes and the other must accept the decline or face serious problems." Twilight said before becoming very serious. "There are only two crimes where the death penalty is still used. "Putting up a finger when she says the two. "Rape and Murder."

"Trust me, you won't have to worry about those with me and honestly I probably won't have to worry about courting anyways as I am a different species all together." Jake said with a dismissive wave of his hand.

"Not true actually. Cross species relationships happen all the time." Twilight countered. "And what makes you think a mare or stallion wouldn't like to court you?" She asked tilting her head looking at the human.

Jack looked at her with a frown before laughing. "Let's just say the ladies always thought I was to weird to date." He said, his signature smile on his face once more.

"Hey that's not true! You aren't to weird to date." Twilight shouted before realizing what she said. Trying to backpedal she added, "But not like I think of you like that o...or anything just that maybe there's a mare out there that would. Lectures over!" She shouted before covering her blushing face, teleporting out of the room.

Jack gave a little chuckle "Still got it." he said to himself before standing up and stretching. Looking around they had already gone through the necessary books and tomes along with all the snacks. "Eh, might as well see if I can't find Spike and see where my room is." Jack thought before heading towards the door and down the hall he came from. Stopping in the first room he smelled something delicious cooking so doing the only smart thing he followed his nose, leading him to a kitchen with one Spike the dragon cooking in a frilly pink apron. "Cute outfit." He said causing Spike to whirl around.

"Oh, its you Jack." Spike said after letting his heart beat calm down. "What brings you to my little cooking corner." Spike asked turning back to the stove where a pot was heating up on.

Jack walked closer before looking over Spikes shoulder at the soup inside the pot. "Well I smelled something fantastic and had to see what it was." He replied his voice sending a shiver down Spikes back. "Where'd you learn to cook Spike?" Asked Jack moving over to a table and sitting down watching the dragon work.

"A mix of being self taught and working with the chefs back in Canterlot when Twilight and I still lived there." Spike said finishing up with the soup and turning off the stove. "I imagine you want to know where your room is." Spike asked turning fully to the man as he undid the apron, hanging it up.

"If you wouldn't mind please, this place is huge and I'd probably get lost for days." Jack said rubbing his arm with a weak smile.

"Trust me I know the feeling. Just follow me." Spike replied with a laugh heading for the stairs near by. Jack quickly behind him so as not to lose track of the dragon. Spike made fast work getting to the guest room Jack would be staying in and with a flourish opened the door. "Your room sir." Spike said with an over the top bow before standing straight and laughing.

Jack couldn't help but laugh with him and after stepping inside turned to Spike. "Thanks for the help. I'll talk to you guys in the morning I'm beat." He said before closing the door on Spike who waved before walking back to kitchen. After Jack laid down on the comfy bed he could practically feel himself being dragged into sleep. Closing his eyes he did not fight it and quickly opened them to the sky above him. Sitting up he noticed he was in a clearing with trees on the edge and a lake in the middle.

"Ah so the new party member joins us." Came the already familiar voice of Lucky. Turning around Jack saw him walking up with that mischievous smile the rabbit seemed to always sport. "Now we can get to some real training!" Lucky said with a clap of his hands causing blue streaks of lightning to dance between his fingers and arms. "Two things you need to know about this place. Number one you can get hurt here but you can not die so don't worry about overkill.

"And the second one?" Asked Jack looking to the growing lightning around the sparking Omega.

"DODGE!" Lucky shouted.

Jack never had time to fully register that last one as a fist connected with his face sending him flying across the ground before stopping in a heap. "Ah my fucking molars. What the fuck Lucky!" Jack shouted but just as he turned to look at the Omega another fist connect with his face again making him fly around.

"Dodge!" The rabbit shouted again after the punch. "You want to become a hero you need to learn to Dodge!" He said sending more punches into the Human.

This continued on for what felt like hours to Jack as he got his ass handed to him. Every time he felt he could move out of the way another fist would send him flying but slowly they stopped connecting. Sure he'd still get hit but now he was dodging the punches and even starting to send some back but they never connected. By the time the dream land began to fade he was successful in dodging all of Lucky's strikes.

Standing across from each other one breathing heavily and bleeding the other still with that stupid grin on his face. Lucky bowed to him and said "Good job, Now you won't get your ass kicked so easily. Just focus on drawing the speed out of you and eventually you'll maybe be a fraction as fast as me." Clapping his hands as he faded away. Jack could only lean forward on his knees giving the fading image the finger as he woke up. 

"I fucking hate training." Jack said.
> Big Trouble in Little Ponyville (Minor editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The girls had all gathered the next morning to talk about Jack. Even Tempest was their though she still felt off with how Jack had looked at her the day prior. "Ok girls we need to talk about the newest member of our world." Twilight said once everypony had sat down. "We know somethings about him but obviously there's more to learn. Any suggestions on how to get more information?" Looking around the room.

"Um... well maybe we shouldn't rush him since well... he you know just got here...that is if you want too." Fluttershy mumbled hiding once everypony looked to her.

"As much as I do love the bit of drama and gossip I have to agree with Fluttershy here. He woke up in a new world and without hesitation fought a manticore to save someone he didn't even know. I say we still ask questions and test him but don't push it." Rarity said nodding after Fluttershy finished.

Rainbow on the other hand was not so agreeable. "Are you two kidding the guys killed before whats to say he won't do the same to if given the chance. He's strong enough to take on a manticore by himself. It took all of us working together to beat the others that were near the main festival." Rainbow shot back glaring at the girls her fists clenching and unclenching.

Applejack looked to Twilight. "Ah'm real sorry Twi but I just can't help worry about what Jack can do. I mean look what he did to that beast, its head was cracked clean open." She said pointing to her head. "I know he ain't lied to us yet about the stuff we asked him and he didn't lie none about the killin' either." Applejack said shaking her head.

"Well what about you Pinkie you've been strangely quiet this whole time." Twilight asked turning to the normally vibrant girl.

Pinkie had a frown on her face and her hair was deflated which only happens when she's sad. "I can see Applejack and Rainbows side since it shows Jack is scary but I don't want to just believe he's a monster. I haven't even thrown him a 'Welcome to Ponyville' party." She replied sadly.

The girls turned to Tempest to hear her thoughts as she was the one who asked the question that caused all this. "He was a soldier and was ordered to kill. He also said he never enjoyed it and even Applejack said he hasn't lied to us yet. I know where he's coming from with past mistakes since you all remember where I came from and who I took orders from." Tempest stated turning away from their looks.

Before anyone could say anything else Spike walked in with a tray of drinks. Placing it on the center table he looked at the girls. "Why all the long faces?" He asked folding his arms in front of him. "Wait, let me guess this is about the whole killing thing with Jack isn't it?" He said rolling his eyes. The others averted their eyes from meeting his causing him only to sigh out loud and rub the bridge of his nose. "Come on girls you can't seriously be letting that ruin your image of him already. I mean how many bad guys have you all fought who you gave second or even third chances too."

"Like who?" Shot back Rainbow glaring at the dragon.

Spike held up a finger with each name. "How about Trixie, Starlight, Tempest, Discord etc. Like seriously girls Discord is the lord of chaos. You really think when he ruled no one died." Rainbows ears pinning back down after Spike said that causing her to rethink on Jack's position.

None could talk more as the man in question came down the stairs yawning stretching one arm above his head as the other covered his mouth. All the girls and dragon included stared as Jack had forgotten to put his baggy shirt back on making his muscles very visible for all to see that is till they started to notice the various scars on his body.

"Jack darling whats with all those marks on your body?" Rarity asked raising a manicured finger.

Stopping and looking over himself Jack shrugged. "Pick one and ask." He said a smile slipping easily onto his face as he strode between the group and standing there hands on his hips waiting for one to be pointed out.

"How about this one!" Pinkie shouted back to her happy self after Spike helped calm everypony's mind. She pointed to one on his left shoulder.

"That one was when I was 16 and was dared to climb a massive tree near the neighborhood to the top and back down. But about half way up the branch I was on broke and I fell stabbing my shoulder on a branch as I neared the bottom." Jack replied chuckling to himself. "I wasn't a bright child in fact most of these were when I was younger. Then some from adulthood like this one, and this one, and these." He said pointing to a variety across his front and back.

"How bout this burn looking one here?" Asked Applejack pointing to a burn scar with smaller cut like ones around it.

"That one if I remember correctly was when my family lived in a apartment. The place had caught fire and everyone was trying to evacuate, thing is I could hear a little boy calling for help in one of the rooms close to the ground floor. Me being the lovable idiot I am broke down the door and wrapped the boy in my shirt to keep him from harm. There was just a little itty bitty problem." Jack stated holding the girls attention. Even Rainbow was leaning forward to hear what came next. "You see the stairs were a mix of wood and metal and by the time I had the kid secured the stairs down had fallen away. This left me with two choices that weren't great either way. I could A. Jump down the area where the stairs used to be and probably snap my ankles or B. Jump out the window and hope there were nice comfy bushes down below." Jack said counting two digits on his hand.

"Which did you choose?" Fluttershy whispered, a hand to her mouth.

"Option B" Jack said " I ran at the window carrying the kid and using my body broke it and also using my body cushioned the fall so the boy wouldn't get hurt." Jack laughing at himself.  "I was stuck in the hospital for about four months from the burn and broken shoulder."

"Wowie zowie, I don't think I could ever do something like that." Pinkie said bouncing around Jack looking at more of his marks.

"Also I got two questions for you two." Jack said pointing to Rarity and Applejack. "First one being could you help me get more clothes as I currently only have what I was wearing yesterday and second I couldn't happen to work at your farm to help make some money so I'm not just mooching off the Princesses kindness." He finished rubbing his arm while looking at the two.

"Of course darling I would love the chance to get you some clothes together. It would even give me the chance to try new designs I've been working on." Rarity replied with a smile on her face.

Applejack nodded her head. "Sure sugar, just come on down to the farm there's always work to be done." She said before adding, "Just give me a little to warn Mac bout you so he don't up and clean your clock."

Jack chuckled at that last statement. "Yes, we definitely wouldn't want him to hit me." He said think on the training he just went through with Lucky.

With that Jack went back up and putting the shirt the guard had given him on before going back down to meet again with the girls. Just as he reached the bottom of the stairs a scream could be heard outside causing everypony and human to rush out. What they saw were a bunch of diamond dogs causing trouble. "What are diamond dogs doing all the way out here!" Said Twilight.

"Girls let me handle this." Jack said taking steps forward before he was stopped by a magical force holding him back.

"Are you crazy Jack they'll wreck you." Rainbow said, "Besides even if you could fight them we don't need you killing them like you did that manticore!" She added getting into Jacks face.

Jack couldn't help but laugh at that statement. "Girls the reason I killed that beast was because it couldn't be reasoned with and talked down but these guys on the other hand look like they can be and if they decide not to leave peacefully I promise I'll only knock them out to be handled later." He said looking at the group some still with worry in their eyes. "Trust me" He asked looking to Twilight.

"Ok but only fight if necessary and don't go to far if you have to." Twilight said letting go of her hold on the smiling man.

"You have my word princess." Jack said with a salute before heading for the trouble makers. As he approached the dogs began turning to him and making insults, waving their weapons hoping to make the approaching man fear them but when all Jack did was keep walking towards them smiling some began to worry and even back away. " Hello!" Said Jack in a cheerful voice. "Can I ask what you all are doing here?" He said looking at the group while his mind began taking stock of the situation. "Seven bipedal dogs with crude armor and weapons. They have numbers but from what they were doing probably don't know how to use the weapons properly. Big guy over there might be the alpha wait no he looks more like muscle not really brains." Jack thought to himself as he scanned over the group till his eyes landed on a particularly confidant dog near the back. "Bingo, you get to go first." Jack finished still keeping his friendly smile on his face.

The one he guessed as the alpha stepped forward pointing a rusty and chipped sword at Jack. "You give shiny's now." It commanded taking a few more steps closer.

"Just a few more steps and we can get started big boy." Jack thought to himself and he responded. "What about this, I'll give you the shiny's I have and you all go away and stop causing problems here hmm how does that sound?" He said spreading his hands out in a sign of peace humming a tune of a song from home.

The dog merely laughed before coming closer to him. "You no tell us what do. You do what us say." He said taking the last step Jack needed.

"Oh such a shame and I was going to give you guys a nice shiny toy guess I'll have to give you a different kind of shiny." Jack stated before lunging forward snapping the dogs wrist causing it to shout and drop its sword. The other dogs were shocked but soon got over it converging on Jack. As The dogs got closer Jack kicked the alpha in the back of the knee before bending him backwards slamming his head into the ground knocking him out. Finally a dog got close enough to swing at Jack who merely turned out of the way before throwing a fist into the offending dogs jaw probably fracturing it. As the second collapsed the third and fourth tried to swing at him from two sides to which he ducked under both launching himself up catching one dogs throat lifting him into the air with Jack who pivoted throwing the one in his grip at the other still on the ground. "Woo two in one!" Jack shouted as he pumped his fist before remembering the last three dogs who were still charging him.

"You die now!" Shouted the closest remaining one as he swung an over sized axe missing by inches as the human slid out of the way. As he stumbled for balance to take another swing Jack quickly swept his legs from under him causing him to hit the ground. Jack stood over him giving a small wave and wink as Jack swung his foot connecting with his head knocking the fifth one out.

Jack turned to look at the last two but noticed only one coming at him till he heard Lucky shout in his head."Dodge!" Causing Jack to lean back as a fist passed his face from the side.

"Thanks Lucky." Jack thought as he took the arm and swung around sending the dog attached to it flying.

"Don't mention it." Lucky replied with a laugh as Jack went back to focusing on the fight. The final dog looked to the human before making the first smart choice the group had made so far and turned around to flee.

"Bad doggy, no running from your punishment!" Reprimanded Jack who quickly got next to the flee culprit with one leg stuck out, tripping the criminal. Jack took hold of one of the dogs legs as he fell and whipped him over his shoulder into the ground leaving a sizable dent taking out the last of the pack. With a wipe of his hands Jack strode back to the girls and with a smile said, "Is that gentle enough for you all." Before laughing and going back into the castle to get clean leaving the girls and dragon to stare with their mouths open as the guards arrived to arrest the unconscious criminals.
> Clothes and Work Make The Man (Minor editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack stepped out of the shower feeling refreshed after the brief tussle with the diamond dogs earlier that morning. As he got dressed he could hear the group down stairs moving around. "Hey Lucky." He said calling on the Omega in question.

"You rang?" Lucky said appearing in the mirror. The rabbit had switched to a casual look of jeans and a t-shirt with a cartoon bunny munching on a carrot.

"I don't think I should be able to hear the girls downstairs so easily, what gives?" Jack asked turning to Lucky.

"Well to put it simply the longer you are Brave's and I's bearer the more abilities you'll get like in this case my fantastic hearing." Lucky answered flopping his ears around to emphasis what he said.

"Just like how you will start to get stronger the longer you hold me." Added Brave showing up next to Jack, sharpening his claws on a blade. Brave had also switched outfits for a suit and tie though Jack could see some chainmail hidden underneath.

With his question answered Jack turned to the door after hearing a knock. Putting his shirt on again he strode to it and pulled the door open revealing Rarity. "Can I help you Rarity?" He asked looking to the fashionista with a smirk.

Taking in her outfit he noticed she'd gone for a purple sundress to match her hair and small heels to finish the look. "Ah, you finished your shower. I was just coming to ask if you would like to accompany me to the Carousel and begin working on your clothes." She said eyeing him up and down already getting measurements with her critical eyes though she will admit the baggy shirt did not help at all.

"Of course, I would love to. Just let me grab a few things." Jack replied turning back toward the room and getting his shoes on and a small book he had taken from the library. Heading back out he gave Rarity a nod to show he was ready and they began the walk to the boutique.

Rarity's mind was whirling with a mix of questions as they exited the castle but she reminded herself to not rush as she could always just ask some when they got to the shop. As she walked an arm stopped her from going further, when she looked to who it was attached to she saw Jack pointing to a puddle in front of her. Rarity had been so lost in her mind she'd almost ruined her shoes if not for the friendly human. "Thank you darling, I seem to be a little out of it since those trouble makers early." She said stepping around the puddle.

"No problem Rarity. Wouldn't want you getting messy before the days even really begun." Jack replied with a small laugh. "So tell me about yourself got any family?" He asked looking to Rarity.

"Well theres my parents, though I haven't seen them in a while. I've just been so dreadfully busy but theres also my little sister SweetieBelle. She and her friends usually are out and about trying to get their cutie marks." Rarity said.

"Cutie marks are how your people know your talent correct?" Jack said looking at Rarity's neck where the mark was. When he saw Rarity nod confirming that he continued. "Humans don't have something like that we sort of just get good at things or stumble on something we are naturally good at." He laughed. "Man it must be nice to know what you are good at. I just have to wing it back home. Thats why I've done so much, never could really find the right thing I was great at."

Just as the two finally reached the door to Rarity's shop it burst open revealing three little fillies in various haphazard outfits. Jack couldn't help himself as he bent over laughing at how bad the three looked while Rarity was busy getting over the shock. Finally when she snapped out of it she exclaimed "SweetieBelle, what did you do!" rushing the three back inside before people could stare. Jack following as best as he could still laughing.

"Oh hey Rarity. Me and the girls wanted to see if we could get our cutie marks from outfit designing kind of like how you did." SweetieBelle said before her eyes widened at the sight of Jack "Oh my gosh, is that the human who saved Dinky!" She shouted causing the other two fillies to look.

Jack finally got his laughter under control to respond. "Hi, the names Jack and yes I was the human who saved Dinky. Pleasure to meet you all. What are your names?" 

"I'm SweetieBelle and these are my friends AppleBloom." She said pointing to a filly with yellow fur and red hair topped with  a bow, "And Scootaloo." Pointing next to an orange filly with purple hair.

"We're the Cutie mark Crusaders!" Proclaimed Scootaloo puffing out her chest to appear bigger.

"Hey mister where's your cutie mark?" Asked AppleBloom looking over the human the outfit she was wearing slowly falling apart at the badly sewn seams.

Jack chuckled at the statement already knowing how these girls were going to react. "Thats the thing, humans don't have cutie marks." This earned a loud gasp from the three fillies causing him to smile more when they began to huddle together and talk in quiet whispers.

"Then its settled we'll help you get your cutie mark!" Sweetie said putting a hand to her chest followed by the other two giving agreements.

Rarity stepped in between before the trio could continue. "First things first though you girls need to get out of those ridiculous outfits and I need to measure Jack here so I can make some new clothes for him." She said causing the fillies to deflate.

"AWWWW!" they whined out before trudging up the stairs to go change.

"Well now that you've met the terrors of Ponyville lets get you some clothes." Rarity said walking toward a stage and what Jack could guess was the changing rooms. "If you could strip down so I can get accurate measures we can get started." She said pointing to the rooms.

Jack stepped inside taking off his clothes but as he was about to leave he noticed his face. It had changed to be a little more angular and as he looked closer he saw his canines had gotten longer. "Well they did say the longer I carried them the more I would change." He thought as he stepped out the room in only his underwear. Stepping up the stage he noticed Rarity struggling not to stare with a blush on her face. "Lets have some fun." He thought as he began stretching to show off his muscles and did it work. Rarity was practically red with how hard she was blushing. "I'm sorry I hope you don't mind me getting limber I forgot to stretch before I fought those dogs earlier." Jack said with a smirk.

Rarity to her credit was able to calm down enough to say, "Oh thats perfectly alright dear let me just get the measuring tape." As she pulled it over with her magic she also grabbed a pair of red spectacles to see better. "Now if you could just stretch out your arms to the side." She asked as she began to work lingering here and there on his arms and chest. Biting her lip as she got to his back, she couldn't help think, "It's like he was carved from marble with how his muscles are. No down girl you have a job to do and besides he might not even be interested in dating another species." Shaking her head she focused on her work and was at the drawing board sketching some ideas after a few more minutes of some would say 'necessary' measurements.

Jack walked over and after only a moment looking at the drawings knew he was in capable hands. "So what are somethings you think will work for me?" He asked standing next to the white mare.

Rarity couldn't help but shake at his voice and replied back, "Just a few simple designs and maybe a suit so you can fit any need." though a rogue thought in her mind had different idea. "Maybe a nice garment for me to take off you." It said.

"And how much will I owe you?" asked Jack turning to look at the room as the mare finished the sketch.

Rarity turned towards the man. "Oh don't worry about payment. consider this as a gift.. but if you really want to pay how about being a model for a few ideas I have cooked up?" She said with a hint of hope in her voice.

"Sure, my mom always tried to get me into modeling but never could." He replied with a chuckle. Taking a seat he waited as Rarity began making the clothes a reality.




After about an hour Rarity had the first batch done. Handing it to the man he quickly went to change into some fresh clothes. "Ah, how I missed the feel of clean fabric." Jack said stepping out of the changing room.

"How does it feel not to tight or loose I hope?" Rarity asked looking over it. Running a hand over the seams for any loose ends with a meticulous eye.

Jack shook his head. "Nope, feel perfect. You really do have a knack for this." He said, as he finished the Crusaders came down the stairs to see the two standing near each other. When they tried to head back up the stairs Jack said to them "Don't worry you aren't interrupting anything. Was just about to head to Applejack's to see if I could help with work."

This caused AppleBloom to perk up. "Hey that's my sis. How abouts we show you where tah go!" She asked running up to the man.

"Yeah, we could also see about getting you a cutie mark on the way!" Scootaloo exclaimed right behind AppleBloom.

Jack looked to the three and shrugged "Sure it will make the trek less boring. See you around Rarity." He said with a wave.

"Come back any time dear and girls try not to get into too much trouble!" She shouted after the group as they walked to the farm.




On the trip over the Crusaders were non-stop asking questions, luckily for Jacks sanity he was good at dealing with hyper active children. "Where are you from?" "What are you good at?" "What do the numbers mean, Mason?"

"Wait what?" Jack said turning to the side on that last one to see Pinkie hopping next to him covering her mouth as she giggled. 

"Sorry, have to keep to my fourth wall quota." She said before hopping away. Even the girls were confused at Pinkie's antics.

After that weird break the trip continued on like normal as Jack answered their questions till they finally arrived at the farm. He couldn't help but whistle at the amount of trees rolling across the hills. "AppleBloom, your family picks all these apples?" Jack asked looking to the filly.

"Yeah, but we also have workers to help or we'd never get it all done but that's not to say we don't do most of the work. Especially my big brother and sister, they always take most of the work themselves." AppleBloom answered as the group continued deeper into the farm till they arrived at the barn and farmhouse.

Jack saw what could only be a mountain of red fur and muscle as a stallion walked out of the barn. He looked even taller then Jack wearing a flannel shirt and jeans with boots.

AppleBloom and the girls ran up shouting "Hiya Big Mac!" before colliding with him to give hug. "Look who we brought with us." They said pointing to Jack.

Big Mac squinted his eyes before walking over to the human. Jacks been through wars, he's seen a lot of things, he even fought a manticore and almost died a second time but never did he feel so threatened by the approaching giant of a stallion. "You the one that saved little Dinky?" Big Mac asked sizing Jack up.

Doing his best to not seem to scared by the guy who could snap him like a twig he replied "Uh, yeah that's me. The names Jack. Nice to meet you." Sticking out a hand for a shake.

The red stallion stared at him a little longer before a smile spread on his face and he vigorously shook Jack's hand. "Names Big Mac, can't thank ya 'nough for saving her. She's good friends with Bloom an the others and I'd hate for a life to be lost. Also don't worry none Applejack already told me about ya so I know your clean." He said letting go of Jack's now sore hand.

"Wow, already got more words outta Mac then most." Applejack said coming out of the barn with a barrel. "Most can barely get a word." She added stopping next the the two men. Looking the man up and down she gave a nod. "I see ya'll finally went to Rarity's for some new duds and ah'm guessing your here for some work right?" 

Jack gave a nod "Yeah, like I said earlier I don't want to just be mooching off the princesses. So got anything for me?"

"Well Mac here was about to plow the fields over on the east side to get the ground ready for new seeds why don't you help there." She said pointing in the direction Mac was already heading.

"Sure, consider the job done." Jack replied following the muscle bound stallion. When he caught up he found Mac already pushing a plow across the ground. Mac stopped long enough to point to another one near him before continuing with his line. Jack got behind the plow and began pushing finding it surprisingly easy. "Brave must be starting to mix in as well." He thought as he and Mac continued on till the sun began to set. As both finished their last lines the put away the equipment and headed back for the house where Applejack was waiting with a pouch.

Tossing it to Jack she said "Here's your payment for the day. Come back anytime if you need work there's always something tah do here." Jack pocketed the bag and with a wave headed on back to the castle to rest.

"Today was a good day. Got to test out new skills, gets some clothes, and earn some cash. Can't wait to see what else I can do here." He thought to himself as a smile slipped on his face and he began whistling a tune on the walk back.
> Secrets Revealed and Problems Made. (Minor editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack made it back to the castle as the street lamps flickered to life casting shadows across the road. A few stragglers were rushing home to escape the cool air for more welcoming accommodations. As he stepped through the door to the castle he saw Spike tidying up the living space. "Hey Spike, hows your day been?" Asked Jack catching the dragons attention.

"Well I would say same as always but you haven't really been living with us long enough to know that." Spike replied turning to dust a shelf.

"True, it's only been two days." Jack said walking towards the stairs. "Anything new then in these two days?" He said stopping at the foot of the steps.

"Not really." The dragon said with a sigh. "Oh, but there was something I wanted to ask of you. Could you maybe teach me how to fight like you do. I've never had the chance to learn and well when the girls go out to take on bad guys I'm left here to just wait because I don't have anyway to help." He asked looking to the human with his hands together.

Jack put a finger to his chin. "Hm well I don't see why not. I know a few different types of styles so we can see what best fits you later but right now I am beat from helping Applejack at the farm." He replied before giving a salute and continuing up the stairs to his bedroom. Once he got inside he quickly stripped down and dove under the covers finding sleep easily taking him.




In Canterlot, Celestia was pacing her room unable to go to sleep. Her mind was still buzzing from seeing the symbol on Jacks's wrist. "Somethings not right. The last time that symbol was seen was when HE helped me and Luna stop Discord but why is it back and why is it on that human." She said mumbling to herself before giving a grunt of frustration. "I'm going to need Luna's help on this maybe she can see something in his dreams that will tell us." And with that she teleported to Luna's chamber to find the princess on the balcony finishing the touches on raising the moon.

"Still thinking about the mark dear sister?" Luna said already knowing why Celestia was here as it had been plaguing her mind as well.

"I can't help it. You know as well as I do how dangerous that mark is. We need to see what he knows and the best way would be going into his mind. Can you see if you could look into his dreams for anything of importance that we don't already know?" Celestia asked looking to her younger sibling

"Say no more. We will have what we need by the end of the night." Luna replied already getting her dream walking spell ready.

Celestia turned and went back to her room as her sister slipped into the trance to prepare for what was to come and finally respond to the notes Twilight had sent.





Luna walked between the dreams of the ponies looking for her objective. "Let us see how about searching by magic type?" She muttered to herself warping the world and focusing on seven clear magic scales. Six were ones she could already tell belong to the Elements of Harmony but the seventh caught her eye. Approaching closer the symbol the two had been worrying about flashed across the portal showing it belonged to Jack or at least she hoped before diving in.




Rain was the first thing she felt as the world appeared around her slowly taking shape. Wire and craters covered the muddy ground with what sounded like thunder coming from all sides of her. She quickly took to the air looking around. That's when she saw the full scale of the land. A battlefield. Two sides fighting against the other in trenches or on hills scattered about, bodies or what remained lay twisted and mangled some still moving giving out cries of pain begging for an end. She scanned over the war zone to find her target and quickly found him to the right of her. Flying over and landing near by she listened in on the conversation with another man.

"Come on Jacky boy you best eat your food while we have the breathing room." The man said with a smile, playfully lifting a fork with what could only be described as grey mush.

Jack looked to the unknown man with with a frown. A bandage was wrapped around his arm blood staining through. "How can you eat at a time like this." He shot back swatting the fork away. "We're low on ammo, low on men, and the enemy could push us at any moment wiping us out!" He exclaimed.

"Come on Jacky, where's your bright smile it's not that bad. Ya gotta look on the bright side of things."  Replied the man, scooping some of the food into his mouth and swallowing. "Almost like mom's cooking." He said rubbing his stomach.

"How so?" asked Jack looking to the man with a raised eyebrow but still with a frown on his face.

"Terrible and bitter." The man said this causing Jacks frown to crack and a smile to appear "There it is!" Shouted the man pointing at Jack's face before patting his knee. "You got to always smile no matter what. It will help you get through even the toughest of times."

"Yeah yeah mister happy pants and how will that get us through here?" Jack challenged leaning towards the man "What does the great Darik have to say to that huh?" 

The now identified Darik looked around before leaning closer to Jack, "Don't tell anyone but I overheard the higher ups talking about support arriving soon. All we need to do is hold out till then. Now come on eat your food its getting even soggier from the rain." He finished with a laugh.

Before either could finish an alarm began blaring with a command coming through "All units prepare to charge. I repeat all units prepare to charge!"

"Well looks like there ain't no rest for the wicked eh Jacky boy." Darik said ruffling Jack's already filthy hair.

As the two man stood up Luna quickly ducked out of sight. She didn't know if the magic Jack had would allow him to see her or not. They quickly passed her hiding spot and got near the lip of the trench ready for the command to charge. After a minute it finally came. The men and women gave a battle cry as they charged over the hill into gun fire, some dropping dead as they lifted their heads up others making it a few steps. Some how both Jack and Darik made it across the zone with some others to fight for the trench across them. Luna followed a distance behind just to be safe as the two opposing forces fought and died.

"Darik watch out!" Jack shouted as he pulled his pistol and shot the man aiming at Darik. 

Darik in turned pulled his shooting off three shots into the man charging Jack. "Right back at you!" he replied the smile never leaving his face as they continued to fight next to each other. They were like one person with how well they covered the others weak side never letting an opening appear for the enemy to take advantage of. They fought this way for an hour till finally the last enemy in the trench dropped dead.

The men and women cheered at the successful conquering of the zone. Jack though began to hear a noise. Looking around revealed a radio with a man shouting something in the enemy's language. "What the fu...?' Jack said lifting the receiver to his head catching the last bit to translate in his head.

"All remaining fighters retreat, retreat. Mortars inbound!" The man said.

"Oh shit! Everyone down mortars incoming!" Jack shouted ducking to the ground followed by the people who could hear him though some were still busy celebrating including Darik. On seeing this Jack tried to stand up to run for him but was too late as the mortars began smashing into the area knocking Jack to the side.

Luna watched with a hand to her mouth as dirt began obscuring her view on Jack. She'd seen war and fought in more then she could count but had never seen anything to this scale or this damaging. As the dirt settled she could make out Jack's form partially buried under some rubble. Moving closer she could see he was moving trying to get out from under it all and finally after a few moments was standing looking around frantically.

"Darik!" He shouted looking across the ruined ground seeing some people standing up in a daze but the majority dead or broken. "Darik!" He shouted again before turning on hearing his name.

"Jack." He heard weakly "Over here." Following the voice revealed Darik with a large piece of shrapnel in his abdomen trying to stop the flow of blood. "Ah there you are had me worried about you." He said smiling weakly blood splattered across his face.

"Oh no no no no this can't be happening." Jack whispered to himself as he rushed over to apply pressure to the wound. "Come on Darik stay with me. Please, please stay with me we'll get you help you'll be okay I promise." He said his hands already getting drenched in blood.

"Now now don't lie to me. We both know i'm not going to make it." Darik said gripping onto Jack's arm "Hey, where's that bright smile you have. It's missing." He said looking at Jack's face.

"Darik this isn't the time for games please stay with me. I can't lose you." Jack replied, "I NEED A FUCKING MEDIC HERE!" He yelled out into the surviving members of the charging party.

"Jack." Darik said weakly, "I want you to make a promise to me. It's really important."

"What man anything. Just please don't go." Jack said tears streaming down his face as he continued to try and stop the flow.

"Promise me you'll smile no matter how bad the situation gets. For me" Darik asked looking to Jack as his grip on his arm faded.

"I promise." Jack said nodding his head trying to put a smile on his face. "Just don't leave me please." He asked his voice cracking.

"There it is." Darik replied smiling on seeing Jack's face. "Be a good boy for our little sister will you?" He asked as his grip finally fell from Jack's arm to the ground.

"No no no please don't go big bro please I need you." Jack said the smile on his face cracking as more tears flowed down his face. "Please." He asked his head falling to his brothers body letting out a sob as he finally broke down his tears mixing with the rain washing the dirt and blood from the body.

Luna couldn't but let a cry escape as she looked on the scene causing Jack's head to snap up. Seeing her caused something to click in Jack's mind. This wasn't real no this was just a memory. A memory the princess broke into and saw. Luna could feel the temperature shift as Jack stood up with blood shot eyes and heard him say "What have you done?" Taking a step towards her. "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE!?!?" He shouted out lunging at the ruler of the night, a rage of molten fire in his eyes.

Luna gasped before opening and closing a portal just as the mad man got within touching distance. She awoke from her trance looking around her bedroom for any signs of the man before looking out to the moon with only one thought.

"What have I done?"
> Deals Made to Calm The Beast (Major editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Luna was scared plain and simple. What she'd just witnessed showed just how destructive humans could be and now they had one with powers that rival gods in their land pissed off at her. "Oh what have we just done." Luna muttered to herself as she rushed for Celestia's studies hoping she was still up. Bursting through the door to find her sister surrounded by scrolls most likely the reports from Twilight. "Sister we have made a grave error." Luna said breathing heavily her cheeks still damp from her tears at what she saw.

"What do you mean Lulu?" Asked Celestia putting the scrolls down and walking closer to her little sister. "Did you see something bad in Jack's mind?" before noticing the tears in Luna's eyes.

Before they could talk more a wave of anger ripped through the air coming from Ponyville. It seemed to carry only one word.

"Destroy!"

Both looked to the other summoning their battle armor and teleporting down to the sleepy town hoping to stop whatever thought that before it could cause major damage.




Back in Ponyville, Jack was furious. Not only had one of the princesses invaded his mind but they saw something he had kept hidden from so many people for so long. "I. Am. Going. To. Kill. Them!" His mind boomed as he drew on the power of the Omegas in him causing black tendrils to form over his body into a twisted monster letting out a nightmarish scream, charging out the window heading for Canterlot.

The whole area woke up to the sound of the scream. Twilight and the girls already could tell it was trouble and quickly got ready summoning up their elements for battle but not before all could see a bright flash of light on the outskirts of town. "Well, at least we know where to go now." Said Twilight looking to the fading light.



"This is bad, This is really bad." Lucky said pacing in the dark room that had filled Jack's mind. "He won't answer us and he's gone into beast mode without the proper training." He put his hands to his face dragging them down letting out a groan.

"Quit now!" Brave shot back looking around the room feeling the walls with his clawed hand. "This isn't the first hero we have dealt with who let his emotions drive his powers. Remember Bone-Splinter, That woman would go into a rage at the slightest look but eventually we got her to calm herself down. We just need to think! Whats something we can use to slow Jack down and make an opening for us to get his power down?"

Lucky put a finger to his chin "What about those girls he's been hanging out with? We know he won't harm those who haven't attacked him or children."

"But how do we get a message to them? They don't know we exist and we are locked in here." Brave growled out before feeling a claw snag on a crack. Turning to it he raised a brow. "Actually, I think I found out how.



The princesses landed just outside of Ponyville when the main six came running up to them. "Princesses, what are you doing here!" yelled Rainbow looking at the two war ready rulers.

"We made a mistake and are here to fix it before anything can get worse." Luna stated grimly. When the group looked at her confused she continued. "Jack has a mark that we had not seen for over a millennium. The last time during Discords rule which reminds me where is he?" Luna and the group looked to each other till they heard a voice behind them.

"I am right here as I figured you'd like some help in this mess you two caused." The god of chaos said warping out of the shadows. "Honestly Celly I'm all for sewing a bit of chaos but breaking into a strangers mind and rooting around is not the way to stop problems from happening." 

Twilight was about to ask what Discord meant when a shriek was heard coming out of the town. Turning to see it was revealed a monster on four legs charging the group with blazing red eyes. It had bone like spikes coming out of its joints and razor sharp claws with long ears on its head topped with what looked like spiked balls on the ends. "What the hay is that thing!" She shouted turning to the rulers.

"That would be our mistake." Celestia said raising her sword and shield moving to the front of the group blocking the beasts path.

"Or as little Celly here wants to say is that's Jack in crazy mode." Discord stated seriously all joking removed from his voice as he frowned at the familiar power source.

"He..llo any bod..y listing." Came a voice inside the girls head.

"Huh, who's there. Show yourself." Applejack said looking around

"Need... stop... Jack. Slow... down and... make opening." The broken voice said to the group even Discord paused recognizing the voice.

"Lucky, is that you?" He asked looking to the beast closing in as Luna joined her sister raising her spear and crouching down.

"Little... girls... like sister." The voice stated getting clearer as the monster got closer. "He... stop for th...em.

As the girls and god listened to the voice Celestia and Luna finally connected with the monster. It gave one more cry as it threw itself at Celestia causing her to catch it with her shield doing her best not to let it scratch her. Luna assisted her by sending a bolt of magic from the tip of the spear at the beast launching it off the shield and giving the two breathing room. Celestia raised her sword before swinging down sending a wave of sunlight towards the monster knocking it further back but leaving no visible marks on its hide. The monster shook itself off before charging the two once more.

"Who's sister do you mean?" Asked Fluttershy as she watched with horror the twisted monstrosity now known as Jack attack the princesses.

Finally one clear word came through that dropped the girls hearts. "Crusaders." It said.

"No way in Tartarus am I letting Scootaloo near that thing!" Rainbow Dash shouted making an X with her arms. Over the years she had basically become Scootaloo's adoptive sister and was protective of her.

"I agree with Rainbow I can't let Sweetie get hurt." Rarity said shaking her head but Applejack looked to the two then back at  Jack fighting the princesses with doubt written on her face.

She asked the voice "Can you promise it will work?" 

"It will." Lucky replied the confidence in his voice knocking down the doubt in Applejacks heart.

"Discord take me to mah sister." Applejack commanded turning to the god in question.

"On it." He said preparing the teleportation spell.

"You can't be serious Applejack. You're going to let your sister near that thing!" Rainbow shouted looking to the orange mare with shock.

Applejack nodded her expression hard like stone. "We have tah try somethin'." She shot back before disappearing.



Applejack and Discord appeared in Bloom's room where the filly was sleeping. "AppleBloom wake up we need you and your friends help!" Yelled Applejack shaking the little girl awake

"Huh wha, sis what are ya talkin' about?"Apple Bloom said rubbing the sleep from her eyes.

"No time just get ready and Discord go get the other Crusaders. I'll take Bloom to where we need to go." Applejack replied turning to the god but he was already on his way to the others.



Back at the battle the princess were slowly being beaten down by the monster and were falling back towards the other mares.

"Girls we need your help!" Shouted Celestia not taking her eyes off Jack as she sent another wave at him but missing as he jumped over it at her, landing on top of her the beast reared back to bite her but was knocked off by a large hammer wielded by Pinkie Pie.

"Sorry Jack I hope you won't be mad at me!" Pinkie yelled after the launched beast wearing a pink colored mix of armor and jester parts before having to duck as he sent spines from him body at her. Twilight quickly erected a shield around them to keep the projectiles away and give them a barrier to hide behind as they waited for their other power house to return.

"There that should hold him for a little." Twilight said keeping her staff on the ground her outfit changing to that of flowing robes. "Now what exactly did you do." She questioned turning to the bruised and bleeding princesses.

They averted their eyes from her stare before Luna spoke up to tell them what happened early this night. As the girls listened Rarity and Fluttershy couldn't help but cry hearing the end of the tale and even Rainbow was speechless looking at the raging monster banging on the bubble.

"How could you?" Twilight whispered her fists clenched shaking where she stood. "How could you just invade his mind like that! He trusted us, he was being open with us and all he really wanted was for us to let him talk at his own speed!" She shouted taking a step toward the rulers who couldn't look to the mare as they knew she was right. "If what you said was true then the last time you saw that mark the warrior HELPED you. So why did you assume that them being on Jack was a bad thing!" She added glaring at the two cowed leaders. 

"Ugh Twi." Pinkie said.

"Not now Pinkie!" Twilight yelled.

"This is kind of important darling." Rarity chimed up pointing to a section of the barrier.

"What could be more important then showing how wrong the princesses were!" Twilight shouted finally turning towards the others and following their fingers to the barrier.

A crack. The beast slammed into it.

A bigger crack. "Oh merciful Faust." Twilight whispered as the beast got ready to slam one more time knowing the walls were about to come down. The girls needed help and fast or they would not be around much longer. That's when a flash of light appeared behind the monster causing it to turn revealing Applejack and Discord.

"Hey ya big scary thing over here!" AJ shouted waving her arms making the beast charge at her.



"I really hope this works."Lucky whispered watching the scene unfold biting his nails.

"It won't if you don't get into position to take control with me. We'll only have a short window for this to work or we are screwed. Growled out Brave, his claws jammed into the crack in the wall.

Lucky got on the other side ready to pull when the time was right.



As the monster made eye contact with the two it let out a howl before charging them both getting closer and closer.

"Oh, please be right mystery voice or Rarity and Rainbow are going to hate me." Applejack prayed watching the monster get closer. "Ready Discord?" She asked looking at him from the side. 

He gave a gulp and nod of his head memories of when he first fought this power before flashing through his mind."On three." He said. "One."



"Two."



"Three!" They shouted rolling to the side to reveal the Crusaders behind them who jumped forward and shouted.

"WE LOVE YOU BIG BROTHER!" stretching out their arms for a hug.

Jacks mind began to see the three fillies mix and turn into his little sister with that bright smile on her face that she always kept on causing him to slide and try to stop as more and more of his anger and rage melted away causing the form to disappear making the opening needed for Lucky and Brave to gain control until he stopped just a foot away from the little girls on his knees.

He let out a cry as he pulled them into his arms and began sobbing as they comforted him. "I'm so sorry you had to see me like that little ones I hope you can forgive me." He said through tears as they held him.

Applejack and Discord rushed over to the Elements and princesses to see how they were doing. Applejack quickly received a slap and punch to the face from Rarity and Rainbow before being pulled into a hug. "I'm so glad that worked." Applejack said as she looked at the group noticing Twilight's death glare at the rulers. "What did I miss?"



After catching her up to speed she agreed with Twilight before they lifted the two and carried them over the Jack. He turned and glared at the two.

"What do you want?" He growled out.

"We wished to apologize for what we did and to see if there's anyway we could make payment to prove it." Celestia stated her head bowed.

Jack shot daggers at them, remaining silent.

"Isn't there anything else we could prov-" Celestia tried to ask before sighing. "We know you have harsh emotions towards us right now. If you could meet us in a weeks time we really would like to have this discussion to make amends." She requested.

"Don't ever get into my head without permission." Jack stated making Luna look away. "But i'll agree to meet you in a weeks time." He added with a nod.

After everything was said and done the princesses along with Discord teleported back to Canterlot.  The girls and Jack headed back home changed for better or worse with the new info they gained this night.
> Party Time! (Minor editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The trek back was full of voices some angry and some curious. "Hey Jack, how come us saying that made you stop being all big and scary?" Asked Apple Bloom looking to the quiet man.

"Yeah, Discord just said to say that when they jumped out of the way so what gives." Added Scootaloo buzzing around the group. Even the other girls turned to the man and voiced their thoughts.

Jack sighed before stopping at the junction that everyone would split up from. "Remember when I told you about the promise of why I smile and always try to be positive." He said looking around the group of nodding mares. "And I imagine you all know the reason behind the smile." He added causing the girls to gain saddened looks Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie showing the worst of it as they teared up. "The second promise to why I always try to stay positive is because of my sister. You see I don't have any family left. Everyone in the Teller family is gone either from war, bad luck, or just bad choices." Jack took a shaky breath before continuing. "She was the last member of our family to live besides me but even that wouldn't last as she came down with a rare form of cancer that couldn't be treated. At least not with out the huge chance of death from the process."

"What were the odds?" Whispered Twilight absorbed into the story that she wasn't even taking notes.

"One thousand tests." Jack said looking all the girls in the eyes. "Two survivors. It was a controversial cure but at the time it was the only thing known TO cure it so the FDA or whoever the hell controls it gave it a pass. But my little sister decided that she'd rather live what life she had then possibly lose it over such a slim chance to live." He said wiping a tear from his eye. "When it became obvious she wouldn't last longer she made me promise that I would do my best to always be positive no matter how bad the situation and to never give up. Though look how well I've fucking done that." He muttered gesturing to himself.

"Hey now sugar, don't beat yourself up on this. Everyone breaks eventually but what really matters is that you can look at yourself and get back up to try again." Applejack said picking up Jacks face to wipe away some tears like a caring mother.

"Yeah, even I get down and I'm the most awesome pony ever!" RainbowDash added floating behind Applejack puffing out her small chest at the end.

Jack gave a weak chuckle. "You guys are right but anyways as to why I stopped for you three." He said turning to the fillies. "It's because each of you represent a part of her. Scootaloo, with your boldness and courage to try new things. Sweetie, for your soft touch and care for others and the world. And AppleBloom, for your creativity and hard working drive. Each of you together match her perfectly." He said walking towards the castle.

"What was her name?" Fluttershy asked looking at the unique man between her hair.

He stopped for just a moment to look at the stars above "Rose. Rose Teller." The man said before continuing onward.



Everyone had gone their way without another word after learning of the name of the man's sister. Some found sleep taking them easier while others couldn't get what happened out of their heads. Celestia laid in the infirmary, machines softly beeping around her as she thought on what she had done and the problems she'd just barely dodged. "That man could have killed us at anytime with how much power he holds and yet he didn't." She thought looking over to her sleeping sister who had fallen into sleep tracking the dreams of the ponies in the land but staying as far away as she could from Jacks mind as possible. "I need to make a peace offering to him to hopefully get back on his good side." She said to herself. Before thinking on this an idea popped into her head. "Since we saw a very private and powerful memory maybe he will believe us even if we show one of ours to him."



Jack woke up on a mountain top in what looked like an ancient temple open to the sky. "Let me guess training time." He said turning around the room looking for one of the Omegas, spotting Brave sitting by a circle in the center of the floor.

"Stand in the circle." Brave simply stated gesturing for Jack to step closer. 

Once Jack stood in the middle he turned to the hero trainer. "So what am I supposed to do?" He asked shrugging at the large lion.

"Catch." Brave said as a weight like nothing Jack ever felt before slammed on top of him, pinning the human to the floor.

"Ahh, what the fuck Brave? What did you drop on me?" Jack exclaimed trying to lift up but finding he couldn't move.

"The sky." Replied the cat leaning against a pillar. "History lesson for you. You ever see those statues of men holding up those large orbs on their backs? Well, their supposed to be Atlas, a titan who when defeated was forced to hold up the sky from the earth. See a common misconception is that the orbs you see are the earth but in fact it's the sky." Brave stated before pointing to the pinned man. "Which is what your test today is. Hold up the sky." He said pulling out a small dagger and sharpening it on the pillar.

"The lessons great and all but how do you expect me to lift the literal fucking sky?" Jack growled out his words dripping with sarcasm.

"With your body of course. You already have all the tools you need just like how with Lucky you learned how to get faster, with me you got to learn how to get stronger. Oh and I should add you don't get to leave till you can lift it so best get to work or the world will think you're in a coma." Brave replied nonchalantly. 

"Fan-fucking-tastic." Jack said before trying to lift up to a better position. And so for the better part of the day Jack pushed up trying to get a better spot but failing miserably his anger growing till finally. "This is bullshit I can't do it!" He shouted collapsing down.

Brave looked up from the dagger a blank stare on his face. "Giving up already? Should I just take back my powers and leave you to rot? Is the little weakling going to cry that life's not easy?" He said flicking his knife around as he strode towards Jack. Looming above the man the Omega glared down on Jack the dagger swinging in his fingers in such a way that even a small bit of power would send it into the pinned man.

"I'm not weak." Growled Jack looking to the Omega.

"You sure look like it weakling. What would you brother or your sister say seeing you give up so easy huh?" Brave goaded pressing the dagger into Jacks shoulder just barely cutting him.

"I said I'm not weak." Jack repeated with more force slowly pushing upwards into a kneeling position.

"Then prove it you pathetic pile of bones because I'm still not convinced!" Brave shouted at the man.

"I AM NOT WEAK!" Jack finally shouted with a heave as he threw the weight on top of him up catching it as he stood to his full height glaring at the lion.

Brave gave a single nod causing the pressure on Jack to vanish making the human collapse from exhaustion. "Emotions are dangerous things but if trained and crafted just right even the most destructive ones like anger can be used for good." He said an image of Jacks beast form appearing behind him. "You still have a lot of training to do before you'll be ready to earn the title of hero but know that if you ever let your emotions get out of control again like that we won't be able to stop you." He finished with a sober tone.

Jack looked up from his position at the lion and gave a single nod of understanding as the world around them faded.



Jack woke up feeling stronger then ever but what really caught his eye was how he looked. Gazing into the mirror was Jack he knew that much but it looked like his muscles which originally weren't that detailed were now sculpted into what anyone would say was a perfect form. "Huh, guess that comes with raising the sky." Jack chuckled to himself before throwing on some of the clothes rarity had made him. "Should see how the girls are doing." He thought as he began to jog out of the castle. 

Something was off though Jack thought as he ran through Ponyville. No one was out an about like he had seen the past few days which was weird since it was a Saturday. "You'd think something had abducted everyon- pony 
I mean." He said correcting himself. "Man it's weird to have to say that now." He mumbled to himself distracted till his head hit a sign. "Owwe, who the heck leaves a sign out in the middle of the ro..." Jack said rubbing his head before trailing off on what was written on hit.

"To the first human in Equestia, you have a mission and should you accept it you'll find all you are looking for at Sugarcube Corner. Hurry!!! Oh and this sign will self-destruct in 3...2...1"

Jack finished reading the last bit just as the sign exploded in a shower of confetti. " Ah what the hell!" He yelled diving out of the way as a familiar Pie laugh filled the air. "Well at least I know what I'll be doing today." He said laughing as he brushed off the streamers and glitter that had gotten on him. Making the trek to Sugarcube wasn't difficult especially when the smell of sweets started to fill the air making Jack's mouth water. Opening the door revealed a pitch black room devoid of anyone causing him to smile. "Oh gee willikers, I sure hope no one will jump out and scare me I'm so easily frightened especially byyyy... Pinkie Pie!" He said walking into the darkness and turning just as the lights jumped on to catch the pink giggling mare in question, swinging her with a laugh as everyone else jumped out yelling "Surprise!"

"How'd you know I was the one who'd jump at you?" Pinkie giggled out.

"Human's have super powers to tell when someone is going to attack them." Jack stated with a serious look.

"Really?" The crusaders asked coming up to the pair.

"Nah, just a lucky guess was all. I figured she'd be to antsy to wait for the lights." Jack replied smiling at the three. "And might I add someone seems to be enjoying this hug." He teased at Pinkie who only blushed before stepping away from the man.

"Amazing darling, you got Pinkie Pie to be speechless for once." Remarked Rarity with a small clap. Behind her were the other Elements and even Big Mac with Derpy and a mare Jack hadn't seen before on his arms.

"Hey girls and guy." Jack said waving to them "And who might you be?" He asked turning to the mystery mare.

"My name's Cheerilee. I'm the teacher at the school here." She said shaking Jacks hand.

"Pleasure to meet you then." He replied with his smile still on his face. "Well I just have one thing to ask everyone." He said gaining the attention of all that were there. "Who's ready to party?" Jack shouted throwing his arms into the air causing everypony to shout their confirmation as a white mare with neon blue hair started to DJ.

The party continued for hours with everypony thanking Jack for saving Dinky or welcoming him to the world. Lyra especially took great lengths welcoming him till Bon Bon dragged her away by her tail. Jack finally found the Apple sisters near the cider. "Hey Applejack. Question for you?" he said raising a finger when he was close enough.

"Shoot sugar." She replied with a smile.

"Are Big Mac and the ladies he was with a, well you know?" Jack asked putting two fingers together causing the sisters to laugh.

"Yes, He's with Derpy and Cheerilee. Honestly you saving Dinky got ya big browny points with the old lug since she's basically his daughter now." Applejack confirmed with a nod of her head.

"Yeah, when he learned what happened he rushed to the hospital like his tail was on fire to see how they's were doin'." AppleBloom added laughing at the memory.

"Huh, well guess that helps me um and one more thing?" He asked pointing to Twilight dancing. "Is she ok?"

This caused the two to burst out in laughter for a minute before looking at the confused man. "That,s just Twi. Two left feet describes her." AJ said shaking her head as she giggled some more.

With that info Jack continued mingling with the party till he ended up on a couch between Fluttershy and Rarity. "I imagine you guys have questions?" He said looking between the two. Fluttershy blushed and looked away but Rarity had a mischievous look on her face.

"Let Fluttershy ask hers first." Rarity simply said.

Jack turned his attention to the tall mare with a raised brow. "And that question is?" Fluttershy squeak before turning completely away. Jack reached over and started scratching behind her ears causing her to stiffen then relax leaning into his hand letting out purring noises. As he pulled his hand away she let out a whimper turning back towards the human. "Ask the question then you get more pets." He stated wiggling his fingers for emphasis.

"Could I maybe um if its not to much, oh my, look in your mouth at your teeth?" She finally said hiding her face in her hands waiting for a response.

"Sure." Jack said opening his mouth so she could see in.

Flutters blushed before leaning in to examine his teeth her chest pressing lightly to his arm, muttering and making mental notes. "32 teeth in total, herbivore like in the back with carnivorous in the front most likely for tearing. This means humans are omnivorous." Satisfied with that she leaned back "Thank you for letting me look." She said with a soft smile that grew when he started to pet and scratch her again.

"No problem. If you want to get a closer look to anything else just ask." He said winking at her making her blush and hide in her hair. "Now on to yours my dear." He added turning to the smiling fashionista.

"Well this can be seen as a bit rude and you don't have to answer but have you had any partners and would you perhaps think about taking some up now that you live here?" She inquired leaning into the man fluttering her eyes.

Jack for his most part kept from blushing. "Well I have had a few though nothing that unfortunately became serious and well as for if I'd try here um I'd say yes but well a date would be in order first to see if me and the other person or people match." He said scratching his chin as he looked to the ceiling.

"Understandable, see you later darling." Rarity said with a smile grabbing Fluttershy's hand taking her to where some of the other girls were.

Jack let out a breath as Spike took up a spot on the couch. "So Rarity finally asked that question huh?" He said smirking at the man who only nodded "Can maybe ask you another?" He said scratching at his nose turning away slightly.

"Sure what is it?" Asked Jack.

"Um well whats your preference?" Spike asked blushing slightly.

Jack smiled as he knew this song and dance. "Well how about I show you a little bit." He stated causing the dragon to look at him as Jack left a kiss on his already red cheeks. Spike was practically glowing red now from his blush. "I can play both fields pretty well." He whispered into the steaming drakes ear causing smoke to leak from Spikes nostrils as he bolted away. "Still got it." Jack chuckled to himself.

The party finally winded down as ponies started to leave till it was just Jack and Twilight walking home, Spike had left early a blush reappearing on his face when he had looked at Jack. "So enjoy the party?" Twilight asked looking to the smiling man.

"Yeah and I think my life's about to get a lot more exciting." He said with a chuckle making the mare look away with a small tinge of red on her cheeks from what Rarity had told them and Spikes added statement.
> Making Amends with Minds p.1 (Major editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack's life continued as normal as it could in this crazy box colored world. The ponies around had really warmed up to him especially after the party when the population finally all got to see the big hero. Eventually though a week had past and it was time to collect on a deal with the rulers so all the girls and Jack met at the station to catch the next train up to Canterlot.
"Hey where's Spike?" Jack asked looking around the group with mild confusion. "This is kind of a big thing, he should be here by now." He added.

"Spike doesn't normally come with us on these kind of trips since he's not an Element Bearer and all." Rainbow said nonchalantly, stretching her arms and wings out so they wouldn't cramp on the train.

"Not happening." Jack stated firmly turning towards the castle and walking.

"Hey where ya'll goin'!" Shouted AJ after the shrinking human, cupping her hands to carry her voice farther.

Jack turned back to them for a moment. "I'm getting Spike. He deserves to come along after all he is an adult." He said turning back and walking away. After only a few minutes Jack stood in front of the door banging on it and shouting. "Hey lazy scales open up we got a train to catch!"

The door opened to reveal a groggy Spike who did not look happy. "What do you want I'm trying to sleep here, besides you and the girls are the one's that need the train." He grumbled out trying to rub the sleep from his eyes.

"Nope vetoing leaving you behind you get to come with us on this trip mister and no buts unless its yours." Jack replied with a wink.

Spikes eyes shot open devoid of sleep instantly on the news. "Wait I get to come too?" He said bolting for his room either missing the last part of Jack's statement or ignoring it.

"Yes and hurry train arrives in five minutes!" Jack yelled up the stairs after the dragon but then dodging out of the way as the now fully clothed dragon flew by.

"Come on, lets go already." Said an excited Spike bouncing at the door causing Jack to roll his eyes with a laugh as they raced back to the station making just in time as the train was preparing to leave.

"There you two are. We were worried you wouldn't make it in time." Rarity said looking at the two though her eyes lingered on Jack a little longer. "We should try and fix you up to be seen by the high-class darling." She added pulling out a bag from the overhead and sitting across from Jack.

"Like they won't look high and mighty if he's dolled up Rares." Rainbow said with a bored look on her face before she pulled out a 'Daring-Do' book.

Jack simply closed his eyes as Rarity began working on him while the others either chatted or did their own things. "So Rarity got any prince charmings in mind for the high-class lady?" he teased causing her brushes to stop for a moment.

"I have one in mind but I still need to see if he is a true gentlecolt." She replied simple but Jack had focused his hearing and knew her heart rate had sped up at the question making him smile inward.

Spike finally spoke up when Rarity finished with her touch ups on Jack. "So when do you think you can start teaching me how to fight?" He asked eagerly leaning towards the human his tail flicking excitedly.

"Well depends really, see I know a decent amount of styles that I learned over my many different careers." Jack simply said catching all the girls attention especially Twilight's and Rainbow's.

"No way am I letting you learn how to fight Spike. You could get hurt if you rush into a fight or worse!" Twilight practically shouted shaking her head at the young dragon.

"Ah come on Twi, let him learn how to fight and besides he could get hurt worse by not knowing how to." Countered Rainbow before turning her attention to the human who still had his eyes closed. "Plus I'd like to learn just how good a fighter our friend here is." She said pointing to Jack.

Jack cracked open an eye to look at her from the side. "I do agree with Rainbow on why Spike should be able to learn how to protect himself though I am curious as to why you want to know how good I fight." He said turning to look at her fully a relaxed look on his face.

"It's because Dashy here is a super duper good fighter and has a black belt in Peguses style jujitsu." Pinkie answered hopping in her seat making Fluttershy bounce slightly as well.

Dash folded her arms with a smirk. "Or you don't have to if you're scared." She goaded but was disappointed when Jack just gave a small chuckle at the jab. "Whats so funny?" She asked frowning at the man.

"It's nice you are eager and all to test your skills but one thing all my instructors told me is never issue a challenge without knowing your opponent." He simply said turning back to Spike. "As for you, when we get back we can run a few different styles around you to see which fits your body best." He finished closing his eyes once more falling into a nap as the others began talking amongst themselves again.



Lucky stood leaning against a tree near a cliff with Brave sitting next to him as Jack walked out of the woods. "Hey guys, You've been quiet since that whole issue a week ago." Jack said waving at them.

"Just thinking on how we can better counter if that problem happens again." Lucky said turning to wave back at the human before looking back up to the stars.

"On top of getting our notes together for the next lessons we have for you" Brave added, who had gotten more casual with Jack but still keeping his steely edge. "Also we need to tell you about forms and drives." He said looking at the human as Jack past him to sit near the edge of the cliff.

Jack looked back at the two and shrugged, an easy smile slipping onto his features. "Well we got three hours before reaching our spot why not give me the run down on them?" He asked looking to the stars.

Brave cleared his throat to catch Jacks attention next. "now on to the topic forms and drives." He said stretching out his hand and turn making the stars shift spots till a Jack was being made by them. "There are four forms the first being normal form, then there's beast form." He said shifting stars into what Jack had become that night when he let his anger go out of control. "Then monster form." Brave added next changing them into the image of a twisted being. "Now keep in mind each form I'm saying goes up in power and how much control you will need and since we don't know what your monster form looks like this is just a stock version idea. But finally there is Hero form." Brave stated shifting the stars one last time into an image of Jack in armor and posing like a hero would. "This is the most powerful form and it also unlocks drives. This is what you want to strive to achieve but that will take time." The large lion stated, sending the stars back into place.

"And what are drives exactly?" Jack questioned looking between the two with a raised brow.

"You have drive which provides a boost in your speed and strength." Said Lucky who had a glow around him as he zipped around the area. "But it eats up your stamina fairly fast so you'll want a lot of it."

"Then there's overdrive which unlocks more abilities that your body couldn't normally handle without damaging yourself and this one eats up your body." Brave said with an aura and tougher looking armor appearing on him.

"And is there one past that??" Asked Jack looking at the two with wide eyes.

"Maximum overdrive." Said brave his voice deadly serious. "Is a form you should never use unless nothing else will do. It unlocks your greatest potential and makes you almost unstoppable." He said staring into Jack's eyes as if seeing his soul.

Jack gulped before stuttering out. "And w-what exactly does it use?"

Lucky stepped next to Brave looking serious for the first time since Jack knew him. "Your soul." He said as the world disappeared and Jack fell into the darkness.



"Fuck." Was all Jack said when he woke up making the group look at his sudden swearing.

"Somethin' wrong sugar?" Asked Applejack looking at the human with a concerned expression.

"Nah just thought of something not as fun as I'd have liked it to be." He said dismissively not lying but not telling the full truth either making AJ squint at him before saving her thoughts for later. "Anyways, looks like we are here so lets grab our things and get this deal over with." Jack said standing up and grabbing the coat he had brought that Rarity had given him during the party.

Everyone gathered up their belongings and disembarked the train where they saw a small squad of royal guards waiting for them. One approached and after removing his helmet was immediately tackled by Twilight. "Hey Twi good to see you too." The stallion said with a laugh.

"Shining, when did you get here?" Twilight questioned after being pried off by Spike. "I thought you and Cadance were still in the Crystal Empire?"

"Well we were till Celestia sent a letter about something important that was going to happen and that she wanted us here..." His smile dropped when his eyes fell on Jack. He stood up straight and walked forward with the march of a soldier. "Who are you and better yet what are you?" He commanded drawing his sword along with the guards.

Jack chuckled before leaning closer. "I'm the big bad boogyman." He teased before walking past them all, calling over his shoulder. "I'm also the reason you've been called here. Celestia owes me something." 

Shining turned to Twilight and the girls but before he could say anything Spike passed him saying, "Sorry Shining, he likes to tease new people. Don't worry he's perfectly safe as long as you aren't a bad guy." Chasing after the man followed by the rest of the girls leaving the siblings to look at each other.

Twilight sighed before taking Shining's arm. "I'll explain everything on the way."



Celestia couldn't help pace the throne room while Luna sat in hers playing on her GamePony. "He should have been here by now." Celestia muttered to herself slowly making a trench with the path she'd been pacing. 

Luna glanced up before going back to her game its soft beeps and boops filling the air other then her sister's mutterings. She knew Jack would keep his end of the deal and be here soon since she saw how well he keeps a promise or how one could see their situation as a threat. "Calm sister, we both know he won't fail to arrive to collect it." She said.

Before Celestia could shoot a comeback the door to the throne room swung up revealing a smug human and his group of friends. "Oh ruler dears. Your judgement day has come." Jack said in a sing-song voice waltzing up to the two but stopping when the guards crossed their spears in front of him. "Oh boo on you guys for ruining my fun." He said with a pouty face.

"Yes so it would seem but first we would like to speak to you privately before we help you collect." Celestia stated straightening herself up to not show how much this meeting had been driving her crazy with worry.

Jack looked at them his smile dropping at the corners slightly as his eyebrows furrowed. "Sure." He replied with slight annoyance.

With a wave of her hand the guards began moving everypony but the human out the door to the protest of Rainbow and Shining each with their own worries and complaints about the situation. Once everypony was gone Jacks smile dropped. "So what do you want." His deep voice causing them to shrink a little but Luna pushed through.

"We wish to make amends by proving we had no ill-intentions towards you. If you'd allow it, we would like to show you a personal memory of our past that we hold secret to how you say 'Even the field' between us." She said stepping forward with her head bowed though it didn't help they were taller then Jack by two feet.

Jack stopped for a moment letting his posture soften on hearing the sincerity from Luna's voice. "Is this true?" He asked turning his gaze on Celestia.

"Yes, it was my idea in the first place so I should be the first to show you." She said sitting on her throne and closing her eyes waiting for Jacks decision.

He stood there for a moment before chuckling. "You two really don't want me as an enemy do you? Fine but if this is a trick you'll be sorry." He said walking up to Celestia and sitting in front of her. "Plug me in chief." He told Luna, closing his eyes.

Luna focused her magic to connect the two and selected the memory her sister had decided to show him. Bringing the two into it she bit her lip hoping this would make the man carrying smalls gods happy.



Jack woke up to a setting sun in front of him while he laid on a beach where a few feet in front of him was a younger looking Celestia and a mystery stallion locked in a fight neither gaining advantage over the other.

The present day Celestia appeared next to him watching the scene with a deep sadness in her eyes. "I have lived over a millennium. Seen and experienced so many things but one experience has always stayed with me." She said as she raised a slender finger to point at the fight.

"Who is he?" Jack asked his eyes not leaving the struggle.

"His name was Scorched Burst. He was the general of my Solar guard my most elite soldiers or he was till the corruption took him." She spoke but it was a hollowed sound compared to the emotion filled one he'd heard before.

Jack watched the fight and began to notice the black tendrils on Burst's body that looked eerily similar to the ones that made Jack turn into his beast form. He looked at his wrist at the mark of the Rabbit and Lion chasing each other. "He was one of the bearers wasn't he?" Jack asked looking to the princess.

"Yes, this memory is one of the reasons we had to see what you were like as the last time we saw that mark was when I had to fight Scorched here on this beach. When I had first met him he saved me and Luna from a trap Discord laid to stop us from sealing him away. He was a gentlecolt but stubborn, willing to stand his ground on what he believed and save those who couldn't until that is..." Celestia said confirming Jacks thoughts.

"Until the power corrupted him right?" Jack stated as the younger Celestia got a few lucky cuts in slowing Scorched down giving her the edge in the fight.

As the fight neared the end Celestia merely watched the fight continue till the battle ended when her younger self ran her sword through Scorched's chest making him fall to his knees bringing her down with him. The younger Celestia began crying out in sadness as the old bearer's life slipped away.

When she laid sobbing into his chest Jack turned to Celestia and was somewhat shocked to see tears rolling down her cheeks. He reached over and wiped them away as best as he could before asking, "What exactly was he to you?"

Celestia sat there in silence watching the memory play to the end before whispering out three words. 

"My other half."
> Making Amends with Minds p.2 (Heavy major editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Luna dropped the spell once the memory was over bringing the two back to the present. Once they were fully awake she said "Now I believe it is my turn is it not."

"Yes, give me a moment to prepare the spell for you two and how are you feeling Jack?" Celestia asked turning to the man with a sad but hopeful look on her face.

Jack sighed before looking her in the eyes. "You're so far almost fully forgiven for the issue but I still want to see Luna's." He replied evenly.

"Then let us begin." Luna said walking to her throne and sitting down taking the same position Celestia had while Jack moved to sit in front of her. 

"Hope you have a good one." Jack said before feeling the spell slip him into the memory.



Snow. lots and lots of snow. Jack looked around the mountain top seeing only snow and solid stone with a black almost ink like storm above that occasionally lit up with a thunderous crash of metal striking metal.

"So whats your memory?" Jack asked turning to the sounds of footprints revealing Luna.

"You know of the tale of Nightmare Moon correct?" She said looking to the man who gave a nod. "What isn't written in the tale is how I became corrupted. When we had became friends with Scorched and eventually my sister his lover, he had given us a part of his power so that we could fight an enemy like Discord again and use the Elements better." She stated looking to the sky as what appeared like a meteor was crashing to the ground making a BOOM from impact.

Inside Jack saw what he knew as Nightmare Moon as she matched the description Twilight had given him when he first arrived. The figure got up, letting out a banshee like screech ready to charge back into the clouds but being knocked back down by a fiery fist from an armor clad Celestia. "Scorched got corrupted by his powers and since he gave you some of his you got corrupted when you let your anger about the ponies get out of control right?" Jack said turning to the scowling mare as Celestia was thrown away back into the sky followed by Moon.

Luna nodded her head not letting a sound out as her body trembled when Celestia let out a cry of pain after being hit by a beam of energy from Nightmare. Tears began forming in her eyes when Celestia's begging for her sister to come back to her reached them till finally Luna broke down crying causing Jack to reach over and pull her into a hug letting her head rest on his chest. "I was just so angry that what was supposed to be a blessing of power for me and my sister I turned into a weapon."

"Shhh dear no words, just breath and listen to my voice." Jack whispered above the clashing battle near them letting his deep voice vibrate in his chest calming the crying mare down. "A princess, no a mare, like you and your sister have been through a lot. I'm guessing you agreed to look at my mind when Celestia asked because of this memory didn't you?" He gently said rocking the mare in his arms as she slowly stopped crying only nodding her head. "You both have good reasons to fear the power I have. I certainly would have taken the same steps if I lived your lives and seen what you've seen but." He said causing the lunar princess to look up their faces only an inch away as she looked into his eyes while the battle slowly reached its climax. "Let me make this clear little one. " Jack whispered his voice and what he said sending a shiver down her body as she pressed closer. "I try not to hide many things and if you ever doubt how I will act or need to see who I truly am just ask. No need for secrets or tricks."

Luna couldn't stop herself as she closed her eyes and slowly leaned towards the man who was treating her so kindly after what she had done and how he talked to her but before their lips could connect a bright beam of rainbow color blasted through the sky sending Nightmare Moon to be locked away to her own celestial body, making the world fade away as the memory was over. She blushed once she realized how close she had gotten to Jack while he merely gave that smile he almost always had before chuckling.



Both woke up at the same time once Celestia cut the spell. She turned to the human with a bowed head not saying a word as he looked between the two. "You both are forgiven but do not ever make this mistake again. You need only ask and I will mostly likely tell if it's not to personal to me." He said his gaze meeting theirs in full force. "Now I believe we have kept the others waiting long enough." He added walking to the door followed by the princesses.

"Oh and one more thing for you two." Jack whispered so only they could hear making them glance at him. "Lets go on some dates to calm your nerves and allow you to ask some more questions so we can know each other better. Or get to KNOW each other better." He finished with a sharp smile growing on his face as the two rulers blushed.

"We um will see how our schedules um look." Stuttered out Celestia while Luna could only let out a squeak that rivaled Fluttershy when Jack looked to her.

The group conversed as they all moved through the halls when out of the corner of Jack's eye he spotted a strange construction. "What is that?" He asked, pointing towards what could be loosely described as a shooting range.

Shining and the others looked to where he was pointing before explaining "That's the shot course that recruits have to go through when becoming a guard. If i'm right princess my score should still be number one?" Looking towards Celestia.

She gave a thought before nodding. "I believe so though it's been a while since we last looked." She replied.

"Hey Jack this would be the perfect chance to help you try a ranged attack we were planning for you." Lucky said in his mind. "Get them to take you there while we explain how it's done!" He excitedly requested.

Shaking his head slightly Jack looked to the group with a smile. "Mind if we go there? I'd love to see how it works." He asked.

No one put any complaints to the idea so they moved through the castle to get outside and over to the range. On arriving Shining stepped up the a leader board reading over the names. "Yep, still number one." He proudly stated, pointing a thumb at the top as he smirked. "You wanted a demonstration so who better then me." He bragged slightly, stepping up to the line as a guardpony moved to the trigger for the whole thing. After getting comfortable he nodded towards his fellow guard before shouting "DRAW!"

Immediately on activation he sent multiple magic blasts down range, blowing targets clean apart, the score board rising fast. Every shot hit it's mark with no wasted movement, his precision like a machine. That is until One target moved randomly across the field and as his shot closed in it jerked to the side making him miss. By the end his score range ninety nine out of a hundred.

Everypony and even Jack clapped at the display of skill as he gave a bow. "And that's one of the reasons I was Captain of the guard." He said. "How was that for you Jack?" He asked, warming up now to the human.

While the show had been going Jack had been given a crash course from his two companions on how to fire his own shots. By the end of it he had a grasp on what to do but wasn't fully confident. Stepping forward he replied "That was amazing. Say, i'd like to test something. Mind if I give it a try?"

Everypony looked to him funny but Shining just nodded his head before stepping over to the trigger, gesturing for Jack to approach the line. "Be my guest. I'm curious to see what you can do." He said.

On stepping up Jack gave a nod when he was ready and as the targets began to fly he sent a few blasts down. Most fizzled out in the beginning before even making it half way but by the end he started to make contact though his shots had many errors. By the end he only scored a fifteen. The others gave a small clap at him even being able to send energy down but he looked to shining with a almost relaxed grin. "Ok, another go please." He requested. 

Giving a small laugh Shining pulled the trigger again when Jack was ready. This time his shots rang out faster then before and even his score rose much quicker as he hit his marks, the wasted movement now seriously decreased. Soon when the end arrived his score had jumped significantly to a eighty seven. The others were stunned at the increase in skill from such a short time frame they forgot to clap.

"Jack, how did yo-?" Twilight was cut off by Jack when he turned to Shining with a massive grin and a competitive fire burning in his eyes.

"I GOT IT! I'm so close, one more time this record is mine!" He gleefully shouted, bouncing in his spot. Shining was being swept into the enthusiasm as well as the others. With a pull of the trigger for a third time Jack's shots rang out true. His score skyrocketed with perfect strikes until all that was left was the shot Shining missed. It moved through the air erratically like it had done many times before but this time when Jack let off a shot it looked to be on course, the target moved out of the way and everypony's hearts sank as they were seeing him miss.

That was until Jack swiped his finger through the air making his shot curve and strike the final target, the board lighting up with a perfect one hundred. The girls and Spike cheered , colliding with the man while Shining looked down the range at the broken target stunned.

"Curving the shot... why did I never think of that?" He asked himself, unable to keep a grin from growing as he shook Jack's hand while congratulating him on beating the record.
> Slumber Party! p.1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After the test everyone was feeling hungry so Celestia suggested to go to the dining hall and have lunch. No one put up a complaint and so the march back began. "So what will you all be doing now?" Inquired Celestia.

"Well we did pack spare clothes in case we decided to stay the night if that wouldn't be a problem with you, your highness." Twilight responded looking to her mentor who gave a small laugh.

"Twilight you are a princess remember you don't have to say your highness and I would adore it if you girls stayed." She said covering her mouth while she finished giggling before adding. "And you young men can stay as well." Looking to Jack and Spike.

"Oh my googly moogly! We could have a slumber party!" Shouted Pinkie excitedly bouncing around the group already streaming out what they could do before anyone could say no.

"That would be fun to try this slumber party idea." Luna said nodding her head as she walked next to Jack. "Anyone not up for it?" She asked looking around finding only one hand up.

Shining put his hand down after she looked with a small smile on his face. "As much as I would love to this is the first time in a while Cadance and I don't have to look over Flurry Heart, so we'd like a little alone time." He said causing Jack to laugh loudly "What's so funny?" He asked squinting at the human.

"Just remembering past days when I babysat a few friend's kids and how relieved they would be when I would help them. So I completely get what you are saying." He responded with a good-nature wave of his hand.

This new info cause the girls to look at him. "Ya'll worked with children before?" Applejack asked with a strange face.

"Yeah I've handled babies all the way up to teens. No one ever put up a complaint since they knew I'd always keep the kid safe." Jack confirmed with a soft smile reminiscing back to those days. "Even had a few call me uncle Teller and others accidentally call me dad with how well I handled them." He added causing Fluttershy and Rarity to let out loud AWWWW's

"Hm, in that case if you are ever in the Crystal Empire would you be up to babysit? Most quit after watching Flurry." Shining asked with a laugh thinking of the last sitter running out screaming about devil children or something like that.

"Sure, if I don't have anything else to do." Jack said giving a shrug as the two slowly got ahead of the group trading stories of being in the military and fights while the girls began talking amongst themselves with Spike included.

"He's a badass fighter, good with kids, and acts nice to everyone even forgiving those who harm him at times." Rainbow said counting each part on her fingers. "What can't the guy do?" She asked looking around the group.

Rarity tapped a manicured finger to her cheek thinking. "True he does seem fairly great and I must admit he isn't bad on the eyes." She said biting her lip as she thought of the last time she had him over to make clothes.

"And he does work hard and ain't no lazy bum." Added AJ thinking to how he and Big Mac finished getting that field ready in only a day.

"Everypony." Celestia said catching their attention. "That man carries qualities we all must admit catch each of our attentions so I propose an idea." She whispered leaning into the middle of the huddle making the girls and Spike lean in and when they heard her idea grins spread on all their faces.



"-And Sentry's sitting there pants around his ankles as we are trying to pull him over the coarse wall while the drill sergeants turning blue from yelling so hard." Shining finished making him and Jack burst out in laughter as they finally reached the door to the hall.

"Man there are days I wish I could go back to re-live those stories but others I really hate." Jack said wiping a tear from his eye. Turning into the room he noticed a pink alicorn about the height of Shining sitting at the table eating a salad. "Who's that?" He asked turning to the old captain of the royal guard only to find him missing. When he looked back he saw the two kissing. "Oooohhhh that's Cadance." Jack's mind said, connecting the dots.

"Hello you must be the human I've heard so much about from auntie Luna and Celestia." Cadance said turning to the man.

Jack walked closer giving a smile and raising a hand for a shake. "Yep, that's me. Hope its been all good things." He replied with a chuckle causing the pink princess to giggle.

"You don't need to worry I know why you are here and what they did and judging from your emotions you came to a balance." She said gesturing for him to sit next to her as the rest of the group arrived. "Ah and there's the rest of the family!" She yelled across to them before rushing over and doing a weird dance with Twilight.

Jack leaned over to Shining. "Is that some kind of ritual or some shit?" He whispered through his teeth as he tried not to look weirded out by the dance causing Shining to laugh. 

"No, that's just Twilight and Cadance's thing since she used to babysit Twilly." He answered watching the show.

The group finally all sat down and chatted till food was brought out though when Jack's plate arrived he noticed it was a steak. "Hm, don't remember saying I ate meat to the chef?" He questioned but none the less started cutting into the meat and taking a bite finding it perfectly cooked. "Oh that's the good stuff." He moaned out.

The group just laughed as he ate till Fluttershy responded, "I had told Twilight about your teeth and what you ate, then she told the princesses." 

"And we then told our foreign delegate chef about you and he jumped at the chance to prepare a meal with meat as we don't get very many meat eaters here." Celestia finished.

Jack had already cleaned off his plate by the time they answered his question and said after wiping his face off , "Tell him it was perfect and that he really knows his stuff." 

"He is actually a she." Said a voice making Jack turn to see a female griffon strut towards him with another plate this one with a massive salmon. "I heard the news and prepared my finest plates just for you and I'm happy you like them so far." 

Jack smiled at the griffon who from what he could see was what you'd see someone like Gordan Ramsey back home wear in terms of attire that hugged her curves nicely while still keeping a professional image. "And is there a name I can added to the chef?" He asked looking at her as she put the plate in front of him.

"My name is Silver Claw but you can call me whatever you like cutie." Silver said swatting his arm with her tail as she walked away with a sway in her hip.

"Someone has the moves." Teased Cadance watching the retreating griffon.

"Silver is an excellent chef if not a bit forward when she likes something she sees or more importantly someone she sees." Luna stated still eating her meal.

Jack took a bite of the fish and moaned again. "She can be as forward as she likes to me if she always cooks like this." He shot back, digging into his meal.



After everyone ate the group split up to go to their separate rooms till later to meet for the slumber party. Jack decided to take a nap and see how Brave and Lucky were doing. Slipping into the dreamscape he was faced with the two in a heated argument. Giving a sigh he walked forward, pushing the two gently away from each other. "Ok, ok whats the reason this time guys. Brave are you being too cold or Lucky are you being too crazy?" He asked looking between the two Omegas who were turned away with their arms crossed now.

"Floppy head over here thinks we should go for a joy ride looking for trouble!" Growled Brave waving his arm at the rabbit who grabbed his ears offended.

"Yeah, well fuzz ball here thinks we shouldn't do anything unless trouble shows up!" Lucky countered making Brave rub his arms to flatten his fur.

Jack pinched the bridge of his nose, letting out a breath. " OK guys, I can see both your sides but how about a compromise then." He said making the two bickering being's ears perk up. "We all know I need to train and get stronger." He started holding up a hand to stop Lucky from talking. "But we also should plan things out so we don't kill me early." He added raising his other to stop Brave. "So how about this. We train harder in here and if issues arise outside then we handle them as needed." He finished. Both Omegas stopped and thought for a moment before turning to the other and shaking hands.

"Ok, we can live with those terms." Brave said followed by Lucky giving his confirmation as well.

"Good, now if you excuse me there's a slumber party I need to get ready for." Jack stated as the world faded away



Jack woke up and collected the PJ's he'd be wearing before making the walk over to Celestia's chambers where everyone agreed to meet. Walking inside revealed a lavish room decorated to the theme of the sun with plenty of lighting all around.

"There's the sleepy head." Came the voice of Pinkie who hopped over to drag Jack to the waiting group. "We were wondering when you'd get here." She said bouncing to her seat. Jack had to fight not watching her ass jiggle in those short shorts she was wearing. In fact he had to struggle not to stare at any of the girls as Fluttershy was wearing a nightgown that seem to barely fit over her bust, Rarity had one that showed off her long slender legs, Rainbow was wearing a sports bra and tight shorts, Applejack with her flannel that seemed to be a few more buttons undone then normal and shorts, Twilight in yoga pants that hugged her rear tightly and a shirt, the rulers each had on shirts and leggings that really showed off their curves, and Spike was simply in what looked like a speedo that showed off his rear and legs well.

"God help me." Jack mumbled to himself.

"What was that sugar?" Asked AJ looking to the man seeing his blush, inwardly smiling at the effect they had on him. 

"Nothing just going to change!" He shouted darting for the bathroom or more accurately what looked like an indoor pool. "Ok breath champ. You just happen to be in a room with really hot and sexy people that might have the hots for you just calm down." He mentally said to himself, noticing his buddy down south stretching out. "No, down boy down! Now is not the time!" He ordered in his head as he clenched his arm to send blood somewhere else. After getting under control and changed he stepped out in a shirt and sweat pants courtesy of one Rarity.

The girls and Spike had used the time he was gone to re-go over the plan. "So everypony knows that the games will be how we pull info out of him and get him a little closer right?" Twilight asked looking at the group, all giving nods or thumbs-up.

Jack walked out to find the girls with a bottle in the middle of the circle. "Starting with spin the bottle eh." He said taking a seat between Spike and Applejack.

"Yepperooni!" Replied Pinkie taking a hold of it. "Whoever spins it gets to ask the one it lands on a truth or dare." She explained, going over the rules as she spun it till it landed on Jack first.

"Well that was fast." Jack said before looking to the pink mare. "Ok truth."

"Would you date any of us." Pinkie immediately asked causing everyone but Jack to groan inward at her forwardness.

"Yeah, you guys have characteristics I like in partners." He responded not really thinking over it making the group snap their heads to him.

"Really?" Squeaked out Fluttershy.

"Ah ah ah." Jack said wagging a finger at her. "Only one question per truth." He smiled when the group deflated. Grabbing the bottle he gave it a spin till it landed on Luna who he looked at with a raised brow a smirk on his features. "Truth or dare?"

Luna thought for a second before saying, "Dare." 

"I dare you to kiss your sister." Jack said making the two blush furiously.

"You can't be serious." Celestia protested but couldn't say more as her head was turned and her lips met Luna's for five seconds being let go her jaw hanging open.

Luna grabbed the bottle and spun it using a bit of her magic to slow it just enough to land again on Jack. "Truth or dare!" She shouted excitedly pointing at him.

"Dare I guess." He replied staring down the lunar princess.

"I dare you to kiss Spike!" She said making Spike throw his head to look at her before looking to Jack and gulping wondering what he will do. Even the girls leaned forward to see what would happen next.

"Ok." Jack said with a shrug before turning to Spike. "Pucker up lover boy." He commended as he pushed the dragon down and kissed him.

Spike couldn't believe what was happening but damn did he know it felt good. He could feel Jack pressing his tongue to his teeth trying to get in and Spike happily let it in moaning a little with how dominant Jack was being. But it had to end as Jack pulled away leaving a heavily breathing Spike lying on the floor. 

The girls all had blushes on their faces and even the ones with wings were at full attention. Rarity was fanning herself and all Fluttershy could let out was a soft, "Oh my."

"Spin the bottle." Jack said as if nothing happened, staring at it as it slowed down to land on Applejack. "Truth or dare cowgirl?" He asked looking to the farmer.

"Truth." She said trying to look brave.

Jack gave a wolfish grin before leaning closer. "Who do you have the hots for?" He asked letting the S drag out.

AJ couldn't help but cover her face as she mumbled out a reply. "*#@%^!"

Jack's smile grew. "I'm sorry dear I didn't quiet catch that. could you repeat that?" He said.

"You." She mumbled through before hiding again making Jack chuckle and take her hand kissing it.

"Might want to spin if you want the attention off of you." He told her making her quickly spin it landing on Twilight.



The game continued on some people kissing or doing crazy dares while others had to let secrets out till the bottle finally landed on Jack again. Rarity clapped before looking at him. "Truth or dare?" She asked, an almost hungry look in her eyes.

"Dare." He simply replied leaning back in his spot.

"I dare you..." She started her hungry look growing. "To strip and pose for us."

Jack inwardly was screaming at the situation. He could keep his cool for the most part on the outside but inside he was in a panic over all the things he had been doing in this game and now he had to strip. Taking a breath he could see all the others with intense stares waiting for what happened next. "Fine." He said much to the glee of everyone else. Standing up he slowly took off the shirt hearing a whistle from Applejack and Rainbow. Then the pants fell, stepping out of those he stood with his hands on his hips.

"I do believe I said strip darling. You still have an article of clothing on." Rarity said suppressing her excitement.

Sighing Jack reached for the edge of his boxers and with a tug let them drop.
> Slumber Party! p.2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The group watched with bated breath as the last piece of clothing fell but just as it past their target a hand cover it up. "AWWWWWWWW!" Whined everyone.

"Sorry, but two things." Jack said raising two fingers with his free hand. "First, I'm a grower not a shower so you won't be seeing the full size unless you get me going and second, I only show that after a date so you best start deciding who gets first try." He stated. "Of course I did agree to pose so here we go. " He added last making the girls and Spike perk up as he started to shift into different stances and poses that hid his lower half from them.

When he was finished and had gotten his boxers back on the group looked around to see who'd ask first. "I will go first then." Celestia stated leaning back with a blush as she covered her face.

"Me next!" Spike shouted but then realized he maybe should calm down and not act so excited.

"I suppose I'll go after." Luna stated turning away from Jack's gaze.

"We'll stop the list there for now the rest of you can work out who goes next but for now Celestia it's still fairly early. Up to that date now?" Jack asked stretching his arms.

"What! Like right now, now?" The normally composed ruler questioned with a scared look on her face.

"Yeah, there's this art show I saw opening today on the walk up here. Looked like a pretty nice place figured you'd enjoy that." Jack replied casually.

Celestia thought for a moment before steeling herself. "Ok, I'll do it but what will you wear?" She questioned as Rarity jumped at the chance to pick something for Celestia by running to her closet and looking inside.

"Don't worry about me just be ready in an hour. Oh and nice playing with the rest of you hope you relax the rest of your night." He said waving as he walked out the door to the hall after getting dressed again.

It took a few seconds before everyone began yelling and screaming about what had just happened. Celestia was still frozen in her spot from the idea of going on a date. "I don't know if I can do this. It's been almost half a millennium since my last one." She whispered to herself, looking over she saw her sister with the same worries as both were very much out of the metaphorical loop.

Rarity finally pulled out a dress that satisfied her idea and walked over to the fretting princess. "Don't worry about a thing darling. This Element will have you ready in no time." Her confidence helped ease some of the panic in Celestia's chest. "Now come on dear and put this on we have to get you ready!" She ordered picking up the ruler and heading for the bathroom followed by Luna and Fluttershy while the others talked over what they had to do next or rather who would go next after the first three's date.

"Who do ya'll think should go after the princesses and Spike?" Asked AJ looking around the group. 

"Well what about Flutters. She already got to look at his teeth and seems to be really open with the guy."Rainbow said, scratching her head.

"Then there's you Twi since he lives in your castle." Pinkie added.

"What but that can't be reason to go on a date! I mean by that logic he should go for Applejack since he's worked for you before." Twilight shot back pointing to the farm girl. "But we can worry about that later first lets check up on Celstiaaahh SWEET MOTHER OF FAUST!" She shouted when the door to the bathroom opened and out stepped the ruler in a golden silk dress with a semi-deep V-neck showing ample cleavage to make anyone dream about her with slits on either side of her legs letting them show, finished with some golden heels making her even taller and adding to the dream factor. In other words hot and sexy.

Celestia blushed at the reaction. "It's not to much right?" She asked looking at the group of stunned mares and dragon only to receive shakes of their heads.

Rarity walked out past her dusting off her hands and resting them on her hips. "Can I clean up a mare or what." She stated proudly admiring her work on the princess even Luna had to admit her sister looked beautiful.

Before anyone could talk more a knock came on the door that when opened revealed a servant. "A thousand apologies your highness but the man named Jack is waiting for you near the gardens." He said before freezing on the sight of his ruler. "Merciful heavens, my wife is going to kill me if I stay here." He thought, turning to hide his erection marching out the door.

"Well no point waiting I suppose." Celestia said before walking for the door. "Hope to see you all in the morning." She added with a nervous giggle as the door to the room closed.



Celestia couldn't help it, she was panicking as she got closer to the gardens. But what was making her worry so much? Sure she hadn't been on a date in basically forever to any other person with a shorter life span but that didn't feel like the main reason so what could it be? "His power." A voice whispered over her shoulder making her swing around looking for the source of it. "Who's there?" She question looking around the empty hall. "You are worried about his power and what might happen if you fall for him." The voice said now behind her again. "What are you talking about?" She said worriedly as she continued on to the garden. "Remember your last true love Scorch. Oh how he made you fly with just a look but then the same powers the human holds corrupted him and tore him away from you, from Us." The voice hissed at her. She recognized it now the voice of the power Scorch had given her and Luna. The same powers that made Nightmare Moon. "No, Jack's different. He promised that he wouldn't allow corruption to control him." She shot back trying to push the growing feeling away as she got closer to the garden. "He's lying!" It shouted as she pushed open the doors and stepped outside to the fresh, cool air. "No he's not!" She shouted in her mind as she past a bend in the rose wall to see Jack with his back turned looking to the moon. 

On hearing her approach he turned and gave that soft, sweet smile he almost always had on. "Hey, you made it. Ready for that date?" He asked in that deep voice that helped her mind ease as the voice melted away. Celestia could almost see an image of Scorch with the same smile standing next to him, raising his hand out for her to grab as Jack did the same. "Hope you don't mind the outfit." Jack said chuckling as she took his hand and the image of Scorch faded. Jack had on a tuxedo mixed with black metal around his sleeves and legs, with a hood attached to his overcoat hiding his features slightly in the shadows adding an air of mystery to the man. 

"You look amazing." Celestia complemented walking with her arm in his, though it was slightly hard to hold being taller then him and wearing heels.

"And you look perfect." He shot back not to be out done making the princess blush. "Question for you?" He asked making her look to him. "What do you see in me?"

"What ever do you mean?" Celestia said confused.

"What about me attracts you." He simply said still looking ahead as they walked. "I mean our first interaction was nice but then there was the whole beast and memory incident then the sharing of one of yours ." He listed waving his hand.

Celestia didn't speak for a while as the pair walked down the well lit streets of Canterlot getting closer to the art exhibit. "You know about Scorch and how he was to me." She finally said earning a single nod from Jack. "He was the perfect stallion for me. Kind, caring, smart, master in the bedroom." She added with a small laugh. "But one of the biggest things was he never saw a princess or a ruler of a nation. What he saw was a mare who wanted someone to love, who loved her for WHO she was not WHAT she was." She explained further. "You... are a lot like him." She finished looking away with a blush but feeling her face be pulled down slightly making her turn to feel a kiss on her cheek making the small blush turn into an inferno of red across her face.

Jack chuckled at her reaction his deep, bass like voice adding to it. "I don't know if I can be an exact match to him but one thing I can tell you is I will try." He said looking at the shy mare.

"Promise?" She asked meekly.

"Promise." He confirmed nodding as they reached the door to the exhibit. "Hello gentlemen, we would like to see the art that's being shown." He said confidently with the smile never leaving his face.

"Sorry this is a private showing and I've never seen you befooooooree Princess Celestia!" one of the men shouted the other frozen stiff. "Uh, go right inside terribly sorry to delay you." He quickly said bowing at the waist.

As the two walked in Celestia leaned down "This is one of the reasons I like you. You don't treat me like some higher being but as a normal mare." She whispered making Jack laugh. 

The two continued walking around looking at the art and sculptures till they reached a piece of a Unicorn with flowing blonde hair and standing over a fallen manticore with his sword pointing to the sky. "What do you think of this piece." Celestia asked.

"Superiority complex, with a huge ego if this is supposed to be a commissioned piece. Mind you whoever made it is a fantastic artist but the model could have been toned down." Jack said looking the piece of work over.

"Yes and if I could get my hands on every piece I had made I'd burn them in a pile." Came a voice to their right revealing the same looking unicorn stallion in a blue and black tuxedo. "I'm prince Blueblood, the unfortunate soul to ask for this work to be made. You must be the human I've heard whispers about are you not?" He said reaching for a hand shake.

"Unless another human has shown up yes I am. So tell me why don't you like this piece you had made?" Jack asked looking to the stallion who was followed by two guards.

"Blueblood here used to not be the most...agreeable of people." Celestia said but the prince interrupted her.

"What she means to say was I was spoiled, ill tempered brat who threw his money and title around to get him through life." He corrected with a laugh. "As for your question I've been going out of my way to improve my life and relationships with the people I harmed or insulted. Like I said not a good pony and these art pieces are just reminders of old days I'd prefer to bury in the deepest darkest hole I can find and blow up. Though my therapist says its good to look at them though I don't know why." He said looking to Jack.

Jack paused to look at the picture again before saying "Sometimes to really recognize your changes and fuel them you need to have reminders of what you are trying to change. I should know after all I am still working on a few things myself." He stated coolly staring at the work. 

Blueblood looked to the man before turning to the art piece. "You know you're right. I can see what my therapist meant now. He also said I should find someone who can be an example and help challenge my views. You seem like just the pony or rather person I was looking for. If you are ever in Canterlot again call for me I'd love the chance to talk more." He said handing Jack a card before walking into a crowd disappearing in the sea of ponies.

Celestia couldn't help but stare at the human, questions and thoughts running through her mind. Jack turned to see her staring. "What? Do I have something on my face?" He asked looking for a mirror.

"No, Just wondering if you'll ever stop amazing me with what you say." She replied leaning down and kissing his lips lightly. "But we have more to see so follow." She ordered playfully walking away with a sway in her step making Jack struggle not to stare.



The night continued on as the pair saw all the show had to give, drinking from glasses of champagne and other drinks slowly getting a buzz. Till finally Jack took her arm and said "We should get back before we get too deep in our cups."

Celestia looked around for any other people seeing they were alone she turned to stare at the man. Feeling the liquid courage in her system she threw caution into the wind pulling Jack into a heated kiss. At first he was shocked but slowly the two opened up and allowed the other to explore their mouths, his hands slowly trailing down her side to grip her hips making her moan out. "Bedroom?" Celestia asked.

"Bedroom." Came the reply from Jack as they teleported to her now empty room. "Time to see if I match."Jack said picking up the mare easily making her squeak as he laid her down on the bed making Celestia draw the curtains and place a silence spell on the room.
> Claiming the Sun (CLOP)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Celestia was nervous no sugar coating it. She felt like a mare about to have her first time though it didn't help she hadn't had a partner for close to half a millennium. "Please be gentle." She breathed out watching the man crawl over and closer to her face.

"No promises 'little one'. " He growled out his deep voice making her lose any power she might have. "But don't worry if something doesn't feel right or you want to stop just say the word." He added in a more gentle voice as he kissed and nipped at her neck making the hairs stand on edge when his canines brushed her skin. "But let me help you first." He said unzipping Celestia's dress letting it fall past her shoulders.

"Um I don't know if I can do this. It's just been so long and all." Celestia said holding the now hanging dress to her body looking away from the human.

"Ok then." He said with a shrug getting up. "I'm not going to force you to do something you don't wish to do." He stated taking off the overcoat and hanging it on a chair.

Celestia bit her lip as she watched the man stretch. "You promise you'll stop if I need you to?" She asked weakly sitting in a vulnerable position.

He simply turned to her and smiled. "Of course little one." Gods above she didn't know why but she loved when he said that.

She lit up her horn with magic gently pulling the man towards her as she let the dress fall revealing her large breasts. She could see his eyes spark with lust but she quickly was distracted when she glanced down to see his growing erection. "Could I um help you with that." She asked gesturing to his pants.

Jack chuckled "By all means help yourself." He said as Celestia got on her knees in front of him and looked down at the zipper letting out a gulp before undoing it. 

"Oh mother of me." She whispered when she saw it. "How big are you?" She asked wrapping one hand around his shaft and still having room for more to poke through.

"About 7.5" or so last time I checked." He stated loving her look of awe at him. "No, most humans aren't this size there just happens to be nothing small about my body." He said removing his shirt. Celestia licked her lips before sticking out her tongue dragging it across the underside of his cock making him grown out causing her to pause. "Sorry just sensitive. I haven't exactly had time to relieve pressure with how life's been going." He said easing her worry that she was doing something wrong.

"Ok girl you got this. You've done this plenty of times." She mentally said psyching herself up. She took the tip into her mouth and began bobbing up and down in a steady rhythm as her hand jerked the rest she didn't take in. Slowly picking up the speed when she heard Jack moan out more as encouragement till she felt a hand rest on top of her head pushing her further down till she took the whole thing into her mouth. 

"Ugh, keep this up and I won't last." Jack grunted out feeling the familiar sensation building in him knowing he was on his limits. Celestia began quickening her pace hoping to make her partner finish as one of her hands snacked down past her panties to finger her already dripping slit while the other played with a nipple on her tit making her moan out, the vibration being enough to finally tip the scale making Jack grip her hair and push as deep as he could into her mouth shooting thick ropes of cum down her throat. 

Celestia let out a cough once she finished swallowing it all but on looking up finding him to still be hard. "H...how though most stallions are done when they finish." She sputtered out watching his chest rise and fall from the orgasm.

Jack reached down picking up the ruler bridal style, walking to the bed. "What think I'll be done after only that?" He said with a laugh as he laid her on her back laying kisses down her body moving to his target making her shiver. "I will admit I won't be cumming again any time soon but that most certainly doesn't mean I can't still pleasure you 'Little one'." He said using that title again. Celestia could only whimper as he finally reached her soaked panties. gripping each side he slowly slid them down her legs kissing her inner thighs making her squirm. When they finally slipped off he gripped the sides of her legs and pulled separating them leaving her open to him. He lowered himself closer and kissed around her lips rubbing and massaging her legs to calm her down as he looked up into her eyes. "Do you want this?" He asked, his hot breath on her nether region making her shiver.

Celestia could only nod as he then agonizingly slow dragged his tongue over her slit making her shake. His grip hardened on her making it hard for her to escape though the thought never crossed her mind. She could feel him exploring her inner walls making her moan out in pleasure from the long forgotten feelings. "Oh Jack, please ha don't...oh gods...stop." She begged clutching the sheets tightly as an orgasm overtook her senses making her gasp and clamp her legs around his head keeping him from pulling away. After a moment to catch her breath she undid her legs from around him letting him pull away. "Jack that was...wow." She breathed out.

"Glad you liked it but we aren't done yet." He said lining himself up to her entrance. Celestia could only watch as he pressed the tip of his cock into her spreading her apart. "Don't worry." He said running his hands across her sides and stomach to help her relax. "We will take it your pace, ok?" He said looking into her eyes as he pushed a little further making her gasp and moan out, reaching for his arm to pull him closer connecting their lips as sparks passed between them while their tongues battled for dominance. She began to lose the battle when he pulled out and pushed deeper back in building a swing to push farther into her tunnel till he finally hilted inside her. 

Jack grunted when he reached the end as he felt Celestia clamp down as a silent orgasm went through her body from finally being filled after so long without a partner. Pulling back he began rocking into her picking up the pace as time went by making her moan and cry out in pleasure. Each thrust sent her breasts bouncing giving Jack an idea, reaching over he took one into his mouth biting and pinching the sensitive nipple between his teeth while one of his hands squeezed and kneaded the other making Celestia cry out even louder as her hands went to his back, scratching down them as another orgasm ripped through her body. "Please Jack keep going! I need this!" She begged loudly making him growl and thrust harder into the begging princess till finally he pulled out and growled "Turn over." Making the mare shake at the power in his voice, turning over to present herself to him. 

Jack reentered her hard making Celestia cry out in pleasure from the sudden filling as he began thrusting into her wildly gripping her waist to pull her back into him. To say Celestia liked it would be a massive understatement. 

She was in bliss.

No one had ever treated her this way ever. All her past partners had been gentle and submissive but damn did she love how Jack was treating her. The loss of power being used for another's joy it all just felt good. Finally after the final orgasm crashed through her, she collapsed breathing heavily as Jack stood over her proudly with his hands on his hips breathing hard. 

"Hope I wasn't too bad." He said with a chuckle looking at the mess that was a princess. He reached over and pulled the blanket of the bed over her tucking her in but just as he got up to leave he felt a hand grab his wrist.

"Stay...please." Celestia asked shyly looking at him through her hair.

"Of course little one." He replied making a smile appear on her face as he climbed in and both quickly found perches in sleep.
> Judgement Day (Major edititng)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sun slowly crept across the room to shine on the sleeping figures holding each other in the bed. When it reached the smaller ones face causing it to stir a groan went out. "Ughhh five more minutes." Jack said rubbing his eyes and looking around. When his eyes fell on the sleeping princess he could only smile, brushing hair away from her face as he gently kissed the top of her head making her wake up with a flutter of her eyes. "Morning cutie. How'd you sleep?" He asked letting out a small laugh at her blush as she hid her face in his chest, giving a mumble. "I'm sorry I didn't quiet catch that." He teased

"I haven't slept this well in ages." She answered when she looked up finding only a bright smile back at her. "Though I may need a reminder of last night..." She added looking up shyly at the man waiting for his response.

"Oh naughty girl, I think I can do that." He said rolling so he'd be on top kissing her neck and trailing his hands down her sides.



The group were waiting in the hall wondering what was taking Celestia and Jack so long to arrive. "Where could she be?" Twilight asked. But Luna just looked away as she smiled since she had to raise the sun when Celestia didn't so either she was dead asleep which rarely happens or kidnapped and Luna could guess which reason was the good choice.

As the noise started to pick up the door to the hall burst open revealing a positively glowing Celestia who walked to her seat with a bounce in her step followed by a slightly limping Jack. "Sorry we were late everypony. Jack and I stayed up a little to late last night on the date." She answered singing a tune to herself as she began wolfing down the pancakes placed by a servant.

Cadance and Luna stared at her wide-eyed looking between her and Jack. "Sooooo how went your night?" Luna asked making everyone look to the solar monarch. Jack chuckled and excused himself taking a plate of food with him so that he wouldn't interfere. The second the doors closed Luna slammed her hands on the table. "Ok spill! What's he like, what did he do, how long did he last?" She grilled having Cadance and Rarity leaning into the ruler with burning stares.

"A literal godsend in the bedroom, satisfied everything I needed, and I believe we went for almost an hour last night and double that this morning." Celestia listed with dopey smile and drooling slightly. "He never forced me to do something I wouldn't want to and found every spot." She said, a hand trailing down her body but stopping when she remembered where she was.

"How big." Spike asked leaning into the table his claws slightly scratching it with how tight his grip was.

Celestia turned to him with a wide grin. "Little advice for you all. Stretch before the date." She simply said making everyone blush.



Back at Jack's room he heard a knock after finishing his food. On opening the door showed a small maid who squeaked when he looked down at her. "Um terribly sorry to bother you but um ughhhh..." She tried to get but letting fear shut her up.

He leaned down so they were eye level and started petting her head which she seemed to really like. "It's ok dear don't be afraid, what did you need to tell me?" He asked after she had calmed down.

"Oh um well Sir Shining wished to see you in the training field for something he wouldn't say what though." She replied with a bow.

"Thank you, I'll be down there in a few minutes. Can you tell him that?" He said, the mare nodding and walking away with a slight skip in her step.

Jack closed the door and threw on some clothes he had brought that he wouldn't mind getting dirty and heading out for the yard. On arriving he found four different guards and Shining . "Hey there you called for me." Jack said waving his hand as he got closer.

Just as he got close enough to see the eyes of Shining an instinct in his head scream something that will haunt his dreams.

"Dodge!"

Diving to the side narrowly missing the bolt of energy shot at him as he summoned a shield to guard against blasts he began moving running around the group finding one of the weird looking guards missing. "So a test huh. Well lets see what you boys can do." He thought as he shifted his angle to charge the group who got in defensive positions. Dodging another blast from his left he reached the group and shot a blast of energy from his hand. The blast threw the guards around except for the hulking behemoth that was clad in silver armor and demon like helmet. 

The monster of a stallion raised its great sword and with a cry charged Jack swinging downward forcing Jack to jump away. The giant shouted a battle cry charging Jack again surprising him with how agile he was. Jack gave a kick to push the man away before turning and bending back to dodge a scythe being swung at him. Thinking quick he grabbed the weapon, sending a kick into the hooded figures chest knocking it down revealing a female face

"Oh come on not even a broken rib." He whined in annoyance when she swung again at him but being pushed when the large guy slammed into her.

"He will be my kill!" He shouted swinging the sword again at Jack who was now decently annoyed. Jack caught the blade, making magic protect his hands and swung with the angle to throw the giant away.

Just as he was catching his breath a whip wrapped around his leg and flung him to the sky and back into the ground . "Ah son of a bitch." He wheezed, feeling pissed off now. He looked to where the attack came from. The whip was being wielded by a mare in red armor and hair that seemed like it was on fire.

She cooed flicking her wrist causing the whip to drag him across the floor into the side of the wall. 

Looking up he saw her getting ready to slice him. "Oh hell no!" He growled, grabbing the whip as it came down and pulled bringing the weirdo closer to him connecting his fist to her face. As he got back up more shots pinged around him making him look up to see a Pegasus with two crossbows firing magic projectiles at him. "Fuck off already you little shit!" He shouted up to the the flyer, firing off shots hitting the ones coming for him and nicking the flyers wing bring it down.

The others quickly surrounded him slowly stepping closer when it clicked. "Seriously, y'all are annoying the hell out of me." He grunted.

"Yep, the best guards in all of Equestia will do that!" Shining shouted from the side lines clapping at the show. "And I just gave them the order to beat the living shit out of you." He added with a laugh

"Oh that does it." Jack spat out looking to the four getting closer. "Fine, you want to play rough! I'll show you fucking rough!" He shouted feeling his body shift and change, warping into beast form making the four pause and watch. When he finished he looked up his brown eyes now blood red. "Play times over." The twisted voice of Jack said charging into the largest, knocking him over as he took the stallion's arm into his mouth and shook him around tearing the armor off revealing it was a fake limb.

The one with the scythe tried to get Jack off by swinging her scythe in Jack's back but found the blade couldn't pierce past the bone spikes across his body. Jack's tail wrapped around the assailant's leg lifting her up and slamming her into the ground till there was a crack as the tail tightened and snapped her leg.

The last two went to either side of Jack hitting or firing shots hoping to find a weak point but only getting him more angry as he caught the whip and swung her into the shooter knocking him out of the air. "Submit." Came the voice from the beast form as it stepped on the whip user slowly applying pressure, crushing her under his weight.

"N...never!" She yelled scratching with her clawed gloves at his leg doing little damage. The pressure increased making her back pop and creak till finally she shouted. " I yield!" The pressure immediately left as Jack walked back turning into his original form scowling at the battered group.

"Why did you have this test?" He said glaring to the approaching Shining who had his hands up in a sign of peace.

"Well partly brotherly love and seeing if the guy my sister likes can protect her." He said.

Jack looked to the battered group then back at Shining. "Well did I pass?" He asked with a shrug.

Shining shook his head with a smile. "Yeah, you passed." He replied.
> Spa's and Spiked Hearts
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"So i'm dating the princesses easier." Jack said off-handedly walking next to Shining as they moved through the halls

Shining's eyes "You're doing what now!" He shouted making Jack look to him confused till it registered.

"Oh that's right you don't know that the princesses and elements have a thing for me and want to go on dates besides Twilight." Jack said.

"Anyone else I should know about..?" Shining said still stunned at the news.

"Well there's also Spike." Jack said putting a hand to his chin.

"SPIKE TOO!" Shining practically screeched. "I thought it was only Twilly who had a thing for you." He said putting his head in his hands. "Cadance is probably having a field day with them all." He groaned already knowing the entire trip back is going to be about this. "Well there goes relaxing time." He added with a grumble.



The girls were busy helping a certain purple dragon think of a date plan. "What if you take him to a show?" Asked Twilight.

"Too boring." Rainbow shot down. "What about a training day?" She said flapping her wings and flexing her arms.

"It's a date darling not a work day." Rarity replied shaking her head at Rainbow's antics. "Oh, how about a spa?"

"Ain'ts we supposed to be getting them a date not you?" Applejack said frowning at the fashionista.

"No dear not us. Though it would be nice." She countered whispering the last part that earned glares from the group. "Jack say's he's done a lot of things and he's good with his hands, why not go to a spa and have you two relax." She stated proudly with a flip of her hair.

"That's all well and good Rares but how does that get me closer to you know what?" Spike asked fidgeting in his seat thinking of how Celestia described Jack.

"Darling it's simple. When you to get alone ask him if he'd be willing to give you a hand relaxing. Then with how nice he is it's guaranteed to have him say yes and as he helps you just give him a little 'Encouragement' lets say." Rarity said as if it was obvious.

As much as anyone wanted to argue they couldn't see a hole in that plan. So with the new plan laid out they needed a place but where?



"Ponyville spa?" Jack asked looking up to the zen building. "Never saw this before. Why do you want to go here?" He asked turning to the nervous dragon.

"Um well you see the thing is um ugghhhh..." He tried getting out failing miserably. "Damn it girls we didn't plan this part out." He mentally cursed. He perked up when he saw Jack walk to the door and hold it open.

"Well come on slow poke. I may not know the reason you wanted to bring me here but it's been a while since I just relaxed and could use the chance." He said with a laugh. 

Spike quickly rushed past into the waiting room to see the spa twins Aloe and Lotus at the front desk. "Hello Spike we've been waiting for you, oh and this must be your second person Jack correct?" Aloe said stepping around the desk to shake Jack's hand.

"Yes that's him um is the room ready?" Spike asked his nerves fraying the closer he got to his goal.

"Yes, if you two will follow me please." Lotus replied heading for a side door that when opened revealed a changing room. "Once you two are ready just head through that door at the end and enjoy your stay." She said cheerfully.

"Thank you ladies." Jack said with a small bow making the two giggle as he went into the changing room followed by Spike. Once the door closed he started removing clothes causing Spike to blush and slight smoke at the nose. "Is there a problem?" Jack asked tilting his head when he saw the dragon's position.

Spike went rigged before trying to play cool. "No, no, it's nothing just can't wait to get into the hot spring." He said quickly taking his clothes off except his underwear heading for the door. 

Just as he reached the handle he heard Jack clear his throat making him turn. "I believe you are forgetting something." Jack said with a wink wrapping a towel around his waist and calmly walking to the blushing dragon. "You don't go into one of these spa's with clothes on silly. Got to lose the last bit of cloth." He said tugging playfully at the edge of the waist band before walking past the now almost crimson faced dragon.

Spike got the last bit off after waiting a moment to calm down, walking out with towel at his waist to find Jack at the edge of the pool with his arms to the sides, a gentle almost serene look on his face that Spike hadn't seen before. Slowly approaching he tried to slip into the water without making to much noise and keeping some distance from the man. Watching from the side he couldn't help but think how handsome Jack was. Sure Spike could say he found both sides attractive but Jack just had an attraction to him Spike couldn't place.

"You know it's impolite to stare." He heard causing him to blink and realize he'd been so deep in his thoughts that Jack had noticed him looking. Jack still had on his smile and his eyes seemed to sparkle like he knew something Spike didn't. "You brought me here for a date didn't you?" He said. All Spike could do was nod his head and turning his face to somewhat hide his blush. "It was a good choice." Jack said.

Spike snapped his head back to the human." I...it was?" He stammered out.

"Yeah." Jack confirmed nodding his head approvingly. "See back on earth my mother loved the spa and when me and my siblings were younger she'd take us once a month to just...relax." He said sinking a little deeper into the water. "Over time I started to learn how to massage and give the fancy treatment the staff gave us. Eventually though my mom got old and couldn't really leave the house much thus leading to not being able to go to the spa." He said a sad look on his face. "She'd always try but it didn't help she was in a wheelchair after a nasty fall." He added giving a sigh.

Spike scooted closer listening to every word. "What did you do to help?" He asked almost next to Jack.

Jack was silent for a moment before the smile slowly crept back on his face. "Well as I said earlier I learned what the staff could do in fact I learned so well one of my first jobs was working at the place. After a while of watching my mom get sadder from not having her spa day I came up with an idea. I can do what they provide easily enough so I went to the place got all the little goodies she adored, came home and when she woke up I made her breakfast and surprised her by making the bathroom a 'spa' if you will." He stated putting air quotes around spa. "She loved it. I even got her favorite masseuse to come down and help me with the gift and it just felt nice you know. Making some of her last days on earth happy." He finished looking across the room in his own thoughts.

Spike sat there quietly watching the man. "You really are a kind person." He said after a while making the man turn to him. "How do you always push through and put others before yourself. You basically embody all the elements together."

Jack just shrugged. "I've done a lot of good but also a lot of bad. Over time through different mistakes or situations and promises I've just learned how to balance myself out. Anyone who says the world is black and white has never been in a situation where both choices are utter shit. The real skill is being able to look at them and know which is the lesser evil and being able to live with it." He stated looking Spike in the eyes.

Spike sat quietly looking away wondering how to continue from here. Sure they had made the plan but now he was learning things about Jack no one knew. While thinking he didn't notice Jack getting closer till he felt a pair of arms wrap around his waist pulling him into the mans lap, feeling hands start to work up and down his back. "What are you doing?" He questioned turning red from the close contact

"Well we are at a spa and I figured you'd like to see how good I am at it since everyone loves testing me." Jack said with a chuckle as he began digging into some knots in Spikes back making him groan out slightly. It turned into moans as the pain went away and was replaced with pleasure as the man made quick work across his body. Moving his hands down Jack started on Spikes legs spreading them apart slightly to get a better grip as the dragon started to pant slightly. Finally Jack stopped his massage leaving a loose and heavily breathing dragon on his lap. "How was that?" He asked turning to look at the purple dragon but got his response in the form of a kiss.

When Spike pulled away he only said one thing. "Spike want."
> Dragon Riding (CLOP)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack smiled at his partners reaction, letting one of his hands glide down Spike's side till it circled just over his crotch already feeling the dragon's excitement grow. "Jack can give." He replied gripping one of Spike's erections and slowly jerking it to full mast making the dragon pant. Spike began grinding his ass into Jack's crotch feeling him getting equally aroused, his tail wrapped around the man's leg to have more of a grip on him.

Spike didn't know what was going on. Well technically he did and was loving it but his body was acting different. He could tell his dragon instincts were reacting but this wasn't like his greed or anger, no this was something different but what. When he felt Jack's hand on his cocks thats when it clicked. Lust. "Should I stop this?" Spike thought as Jack teased his body. "Mmm, no I want this." He thought solidifying his mind and turning in his seat on Jack to look him in the face. "Um can I ask you something?" He asked looking into the kind eyes of the human.

"Of course." Jack replied still keeping a firm grip on Spike's thighs, massaging them.

"Um can you..." He tried getting out but letting nervousness stop him. He felt Jack's hands move across his body till they rested on his ass squeezing them making him squeak.

"Go on you can ask anything you'd like." Jack said soothingly kneading Spike's ass making the dragon moan out and turn into putty.

"Anything?" Spike asked leaning a little closer his hands resting on Jack's chest feeling the strong heart beat in it.

"Anything." Confirmed his partner who leaned closer his lips hovering just next to Spike's ear frill making the dragon shiver.

"Can you... be in charge." He finally whispered feeling Jack's chest vibrate with a hum. He could practically feel Jack smile next to him. Jack didn't answer verbally instead he lifted up the dragon and pinned him to the wall, biting down on his shoulder with a firm grip on Spike's ass making him wrap his legs around his partners waist. He let out a small whimper realizing just how naked he and Jack were feeling the humans cock press to his.

"I can do that but i'll need one thing from you." Jack replied smiling his face an inch away from Spike's blushing one.

"What?" Spike asked breathlessly looking into the hungry eye's of Jack his own lust getting higher and higher as his body got leaner and more plush in certain areas as his lust growth happened.

"I prefer my toys to beg and be vocal." Jack growled out as he pressed the tip of his cock to Spikes entrance, slowly pushing in with little resistance making the dragon's tail wrap around his leg instinctively. 

Spike's mind was racing. He now just lost his virginity to Jack and was loving every second the human was in him feeling his cock slowly push in and out making him moan louder the faster Jack thrusted into him. "Ah, please...oh Celestia, keep going." He begged feeling Jack growl like an animal and thrust faster his hands roughly holding his body up. Before he could say more Jack pressed his lips to his. Spike opened his mouth to let Jack's tongue inside, wrestling to see who could claim dominance over the others mouth. Just when he felt he would win Jack gave a hard thrust making Spike's mind blank for a second long enough for Jack to win the fight. Spike felt the build up in his loins and tried to speak to warn Jack but only felt him take a step back making Spike lean on the wall more to get his cock deeper into Spike's ass cutting any chance to speak as pleasure flooded his body tipping the scale of balance.

Jack was busy fighting off his own orgasm as he watched Spike's claws slide down the wall gouging lines into the wood as his erections twitched, shooting ropes of cum out and cross the young dragons body painting his green stomach with white lines. Jack eased his thrusts till he stopped, staying inside Spike's entrance. "Someone all tuckered out." He teased lifting the dragon down into the water so that his feet could touch the ground. 

What he didn't expect was the answer he got back from the dragon. "Spike want... more." Spike said turning around and planting his hands on the wall, pressing his ass back into the humans waist. He felt hands wrap around his own waist, pulled away slowly before being slammed back in making him scream out in pleasure. The process continued picking up speed till Jack was slamming into his ass full force, each slap of connected flesh causing his ass to shake as he did his best to push back with him. "Oh fuck Jack! yes right there keep going! I'm going to cum again." Spike moaned out another orgasm building in his body. 

"Then come on slut let me see how tight you can get." Commanded Jack smacking Spike's ass making him cry out in both pain and pleasure. 

Finally after a few more thrusts Spike couldn't hold back anymore and came, spraying his seed into the pool as his ass clamped down on Jack's cock. Jack grunted and pushed as deep as he could into the dragon releasing himself into the dragons guts. They stayed like that for a moment, their breaths heavy till Jack started pulling out and with a 'POP' his cock finally came out followed by a leaking trail of cum. 

Jack sat on the curb his feet hanging in the water as he made a come here motion with his finger. "Come on toy." He ordered.

Spike crawled over and kneeled in front of him, his dick's still hard. "Yes, sir?" He asked loving the attention.

"Clean." Was all Jack said pointing to his cock still standing. He rested his hands behind him, propping him up as the dragon gulped and leaned forward. Extending his tongue out he began coiling it around Jack's cock before sealing his lips around it tasting the slightly salty but sweet cum still on it. Jack groaned out in appreciation as the dragon worked bobbing his head up and down, even snaking his tongue down to lick and play with his partners balls. After cleaning as much as he could he removed his lips and waited for more orders. They never came as Jack just picked him up out of the water and laid him down on his chest, his stomach pointing to the air as he felt Jack's hands run across his body massaging him more till they reached his twitching cock. With a grip on each of them Jack began pumping both in rhythm while kissing Spike's neck and chin. All Spike could do was run his hands over his lover's body enjoying the feeling of being so close until what he knew as his last orgasm crept up.

"Jack mmm i'm.. I." He tried to get out but was stopped when he heard Jack speak his voice washing over his body.

"I know, just let it happen." He said.

Spike couldn't fight it anymore after hearing those words as he came. the last of his strength leaving him. He went limp against his lover who picked him up and washed him off in the pool before taking them both to the changing rooms. Jack helped Spike get dressed before carrying him bridal style out of the spa, thanking the twins for letting them use it and apologizing for the mess. They merely giggled saying Twilight had already paid in advance in case of this, closing the door after them. The walk back Spike just held on all the while smiling at his luck.

They reached the castle and inside Spike walked to his bedroom getting ready to sleep but opened his eyes when he heard the door open to reveal Jack in pj's. Sliding over he made room and felt Jack's arms wrap around him as he drifted to sleep.
> The Cutie Mark Conundrum p.1 (Minor editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It had been a few days since Spike and Jack made things official but to the girls they could see the difference the next day with how Spike had invited all of them over for dinner and made a small feast. All while keeping a glowing smile on his face even when Jack was gone. 

The cutie mark crusaders especially wanted to know more about Jack and see if he could help them get their marks. "Where is he?" Scootaloo asked looking around the castle with the other two in tow.

"Maybe he's in the library?" SweetieBelle suggested with a raised finger. With the new area to look they started moving towards it hearing noises coming from the other side of the door. As they got closer it sounded like three people talking, one they could tell was Jack. Pressing their ears to the door they began to listen hoping to hear something.



Jack was sitting in the library across from the two Omegas. "So what exactly happened with Scorch? Do I have to worry about being corrupted from your powers?" He asked looking at them with worry.

Brave frowned and shook his head. "No, we have no control over how you work or do things. We simply provide the power and skills to use our abilities so that you can be a true hero. Sure we can have some control by speaking our opinions but it is ultimately up to you whether you wish to listen to it or not. We also can call out hazards you may not have seen yet or noticed so you can react better but in terms of actually making you do what we say then no."

Lucky piped up after Brave. "Scorch was a bad case. See we were assigned to him for the purpose of creating someone who could keep the world safe and remove control from a mad god." He said making an image of Discord in his hand then blowing it away."He did his job but then there were no bad guys to challenge he slowly went stir crazy. All this power and nothing to release it on." Lucky said, sighing when he thought back to the past. " Eventually he went after even the pettiest of crime with his full strength. No one survived as he would call himself judge, jury, and executioner.

"So what am I like compared to him. Do you feel I could end up like that?" Jack asked with a tense posture waiting for their response. The two looked at each other before shaking their heads.

"You were chosen specifically because you embody everything all the past hero's we have trained did but...you also aren't power hungry or go out of your way to challenge things. You're fine just sitting and relaxing not always having to do something. The issue with past hero's honestly was they were adrenaline junkies always needing their next fix." Brave answered, looking Jack in the eyes.

Jack let out a breath. "Well good to know I have control of myself. Just have to keep watch on my emotions." Before more could be said the door to the library swung open and the crusaders fell down into a pile on the floor groaning in pain. "Hello girls, you do know its impolite to listen into private conversations." He said with a chuckle walking up to the three almost adult girls and picking them up. After brushing them off he bent down to their height. "Now what can I do for you three?"He asked.

"Well we wanted to know if you could help with our cutie marks!" Sweetie asked excitedly. The others nodded their heads backing her up.

Jack straightened himself up and thought for a second with a finger to his cheek, tapping it. "Hm, I don't know." He said turning around making the girls deflate. "I mean what could I, a man who's done so much and could easily help three little fillies get their prized marks, even do?" He asked turning around and tapping on each of their heads as he continued talking. "I mean it's not like I can see what you girls are good at and help you improve on those skills to unlock your true potentials." He added with a smile as they caught on.

"Well ah do like tah build things." Applebloom said.

"And I like to go fast and do cool tricks." Scootaloo added puffing out her chest and fluttering her small wings.

"I like to sing though I can get kind of shy if I have to preform for others." Sweetie finished. The three looked up to the man still with a smile as he walked past them down the hall.

"Well come on you three, I think I have an idea for you." He called back to the room making them give chase. When the girls caught up they were bouncing around the striding human.

"What are you thinking to help us?" Scootallo asked, buzzing around him.

"Well girls cutie marks are your special talent correct?" He said looking to the three fillies who nodded their heads. "I'm going to go ask the mayor for a special request and it will help me, help you." He stated putting his hands on his chest before then pointing at the girls. "Now come on I don't want to wait in a long line." He added continuing to head towards city hall.



"Uggghhhh, when do we get started on our cutie marks." Whined Scootaloo hanging backwards on Jack's arm.

"You want your cutie mark?" He said with a chuckle at her antics. When she nodded he straightened her up. "Then you'll have to wait a little longer but if we can do what I need we will be set." He encouraged making her 'humph' but not complain anymore. Eventually they finally got to sit in front of Mayor Mare. Jack hadn't met her till now but looking at her, he was honestly surprised at how well she looked for holding a stressful job for so long and at her age. She had on a brown vest over a button up blouse with her signature collar and bowtie. Her hair was in a neat but with plenty of white and grey in it yet she held herself confidently. "So defiantly a GILF." He thought looking to the woman. "Hello Mayor I have a proposition for you." He said striding towards her and firmly shaking her hand.

"And what might that be mister Teller?" She asked.

"Well one you can just call me Jack and two I'd like to put on a show." He said with that award winning grin.

"What kind of show?" She asked leaning in her curiosity peaking.

"Well everyone knows ponies have their special talents but that's not to say no one has other skills. I'd like to put on a show for people to try other skills or talents they may have to really flesh out this town and bring some life to it that isn't it getting attacked, eaten, or blown up." He said making the mare laugh.

"I must admittedly say sir, you had my curiosity peaked but now you have my full interest. What will you need to put on this show?" She asked leaning more onto the desk her modest bust pushed together.

"Just get the word out for me and I will handle the rest." He replied confidently.

"The mayor pulled out a paper and stamp. After filling out the sheet she stamped her signature on the corner and handed it to Jack. "This grants you full permission to have this show. When can we expect it to happen?" She inquired.

"Give me three weeks and it will be ready." He replied standing and walking towards the door but stopping as he pulled the handle. "You might want to mention there's a special reward for who can put on the best performance for the show." He said with a wink disappearing past the door with the crusaders in tow.



"What does this show have to do with our cutie marks? We already tried a talent show for that." Sweetie asked shuddering at the memory of the last performance the girls gave.

Jack laughed remembering when Twilight told him about that incident. "No don't worry but first things first we need a stage. I want you girls to scout around and find a nice spot for a good sized stage ok?" He said looking at the three. They each gave a salute and rushed off in search of the perfect spot. "Now then off to find the other pieces." He mumbled to himself as he walked towards the direction of the boutique.

Opening the door let off a little jingle of a bell as Jack stepped inside. "One moment darling." He heard Rarity call out. When she came around the corner she began giving her welcome speech. "Welcome to the Carousel Boutique where everything is neat, sheek, and magnific. Oh Jack it's you what can I do to help you?" She asked walking closer and hugging the man. 

"Hello dear I have a favor to ask of you and it is very vital." He said clasping his hands together.

"Well what is it? I'm sure I can complete it for you." Rarity asked smiling at the man's gestures.

"There will be a talent show in three weeks time. I am having the crusaders help it but more importantly your sister will be preforming. I don't just want you there I need you there as she looks up to you and your presence could help her have the courage to sing in front of the crowd." He said laying out his request. "Oh and might I mention this would be a good chance to show off a new design with Sweetie as your model." He added knowing that would be to juicy of a bonus for Rarity to let slide.

Her eye's lit up at the idea and a smile grew when she heard the last part. "You can count me there but I do request I make an outfit for you as well." She said, her mind already racing with ideas.

Jack just laughed. "Whatever gets you there Rares but anyways I got some other spots to hit so see you later." He said with a wave, walking out the door.

"Next stop the Apple family." He said clapping his hands and heading off for the orchard. After a jog there the tree lines came into view with a familiar red stallion out front chatting with Cheerilee. "Hey you two!" Jack yelled as he got closer waving an arm.

"Hello there Jack, it is a pleasure to see you again." Cheerilee happily said as he got close enough. Big Mac gave a nod of notice to the man.

"Ah hears you are puttin on some fancy show." Mac said his southern drawl easily noticeable as he pushed off the wooden fence.

"Yes actually if you two will follow me I need to talk to the rest of the family here." Jack said gesturing for them to follow. As they walked down he began explaining the idea of the talent show. "See the girls want to get their marks but 
I've seen how they go about it and it's wrong." He said as they walked closer to the farm. 

Cheerilee frowned and tilted her head. "Whatever do you mean?" She asked.

"You know all about cutie marks but the girls see they have been trying everything, but what they are actually good at they are too shy or scared. Applebloom can build things like the clubhouse, Sweetie is great at singing, and Scoots is great at tricks but none have gotten the right nudge needed to go for it." He said excitedly to the couple.

"So yea think this show will do the trick?" Big Mac said scratching his head.

Jack turned and walked backwards as he faced the two. "I know it will work but I need people to join which is where you guys come in. You know plenty of people who have other skills more so then I do so if you guys could get the word out it would be fantastic!" He finished looking to the pair.

Cheerilee got excited when she got an idea. "Oh Maccy why don't you join you are great at playing the drums in the band you and the guys have." She said tugging on his large bicep.

He turned even brighter red at the mention of his playing. "Ah don't know nothin like that. Ah'm ok but don't know bout great." He replied shyly scratching his cheek and looking away.

"Please Maccy poo." Cheerille begged sweetly, fluttering her eyes at him. "I know your sister would love to see you perform and Dinky would be thrilled to see her big, strong daddy on stage as well." She added sealing the deal for Mac.

"All right fine Ah'll do it." He finally relinquished when he thought of the smile Dinky and his girls will have.

Jack subtly bumped fists with Cheerilee on getting him to agree. "Anyways can you guys tell Applejack to be there as well since it would mean a lot for the girls." He added as he started to head for his last destination. He received two nods as he made it around the bend. "Now for the last target." He said, taking off in a jog whistling to himself.

Reaching the house in the sky Jack stopped to admire how it looked. Rainbow did a good job decorating and making it hers even if its limited mostly to clouds. "Hope she's in there and not asleep." He whispered before taking a breath. "Rainbow!" He shouted. A second passed then another and another. Taking another breath he shouted louder "Rainbow!" Still no reply "Ok one more try." As he took the next breath to yell as loud as he could Rainbow landed next to him from behind.

"Sup dude, why you yelling my name?" She asked looking at him weird.

Jack jumped and let out a not so manly scream at the sudden scare. When he noticed it was the person he wanted to talk to who was currently bent over crying with laughter he grunted and waited for her to calm down.

10 minutes later...

"Ahahahaha hoo you should have seen the look on your face." Rainbow said finally calming down enough to speak.

"Yes, that's all fine and good but I have something I need to ask of you." He said waving his hand dismissively, trying to get to why he came here.

"Sure what did you need from the most awesome flyer in Equestria?" She said striking as pose.

Jack rolled his eyes and simply said "I need you to come to the talent show in three weeks." 

"Why would I go to a show like that?" Rainbow said already slipping into boredom.

"Because miss flyer, Sootaloo will be preforming and if it goes right will get her cutie mark. Don't you think that's a good reason to be there." He said leaning towards the mare. 

Rainbow stopped mid yawn to look at him. "You serious?" She questioned.

"Yes, I know that if you are there Scoots will have the courage she needs from having her biggest idol cheer her on." Jack stated making the wings on Rainbow shift at the praise.

"Ok I'll be there to see her." She said a soft smile on her face as she thought of how Scootaloo would act before flying up into her house.

Jack smiled before walking away. "Now to see how the girls are doing."
> The Cutie Mark Conundrum p.2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack could feel something was wrong as he got closer to the park. Not horribly wrong but definitely someone is going to get hurt wrong. As he reached a tree over looking the park the branches above started to snap and fall followed by three screaming girls. He did his best to catch them but their weight together brought him down onto his back. "Ow." He groaned. "Should have figured it would have been me." He grumbled to himself as the girls got off of him.

"Wow Jack yah showed up just in time." AppleBloom said after everyone was standing up again.

"Yeah, also what did you have to do anyways?" Questioned Scootaloo buzzing around already.

Jack rubbed his back before replying "You girls will find out soon enough okay. Now did you find a good spot to set up the stage?"

The three grabbed his arms and pulled him to an empty section of the park where they thought it would be the best spot. Looking around he could see they chose right as the ground was solid so no worries about the stage and plenty easy for a crowd to be here. "It's perfect girls. Now on to helping you three." He said turning to the wild cards. "You AppleBloom will be first up." He stated pointing to the country girl.

"What do ya mean by that?" She asked looking confused.

"You like to build things. Well why not help in building the stage and show everyone your skills. Hell I'll even show you some building techniques from my old world." He said, his smile growing when her eyes grew to the size of saucers and she began vibrating. "But first we need supplies so follow me children it is shopping day." He stated walking back to town at a good pace making the girls lightly jog to keep up.

"What do we need?"  SweetieBelle finally asked once they entered the main square.

"Well for starters wood and lots of it. I've been saving up from work and various other things along with favors so I should be able to get everything we need. But yes first wood." Jack replied resting his hands on his hips as he remembered where the wood cutter brothers were.



So for the rest of the day the group went around town collecting all the materials they would need for the project that by the end of the day a nice pile of supplies were waiting in the park to be assembled.

Jack clapped his hands together once everything was in place. "Ok AppleBloom time to build." He said. walking over to one of the piles.

"What about us?" Scootaloo questioned walking next to him.

"You girls need to start thinking of either tricks you'd like to show off." He said pointing to the orange Pegasus. "Or write a song that you'd like to sing." He added shifting to Sweetie making the two look at each other. 

"How are we supposed to do that though?" Said SweetieBelle scratching her head.

"Hm it would help if you two had certain people you look up to like oh I don't know sisters that would like to help." Jack said offhandedly hiding his smile as the two bolted away with gasps when they realized who he was talking about. When he looked back he saw AppleBloom already had a good start on the base of the stage going. Walking up he held the next piece she needed ready. As they worked on the stage Applejack strode up pulling a cart with more material that Jack had ordered.

"Howdy ya'll, I see ya guys are making good progress on this here show." She complimented whistling at how far they already were at the piece. "Here are the last of the supplies ya needed Jack." She said unhitching the cart.

Jack walked up and kissed her cheek. "Thanks honey, you are the best." He said laughing at her reaction as she pulled her hat down to hide her face. "Also was wondering If you thought of a date yet. I know the others have to go before you if I remember right." He asked tapping his chin after taking a few steps back so she could breath.

Before Applejack could reply Bloom let out a cry as she fell off one of the high beams for the lights. "Help!" She shouted.

"AppleBloom!" Cried Applejack trying to run and catch her falling sister but was quickly overtaken by Jack who dived past catching the girl before she could reach the ground. "Oh heaven above are you ok?" Applejack asked running up to the pair to see Jack slowly unwrap around the little girl, revealing she was unharmed.

"Ah'm okay sis thanks to Jack here." AppleBloom replied standing up shaking still.

"Next time Bloom let me handle the higher stuff unless I'm close enough to help okay?" Jack said brushing off some dirt from the girl. He felt a pair of arms wrap around his waist from behind with a body pressed to his.

"Thank you Jack for saving Bloom." Applejack whispered her voice muffled slightly by his clothes. He could feel her heart beat racing from the scare.

Jack turned so he could face her. "Think nothing of it hun, just doing my good deed of the day." He said calmly to help the mare's beating heart calm, lowering his voice to a slight rumble. "Why don't you take Bloom home. We made a lot of progress already and the show isn't for another three weeks." He said pushing the filly closer to her sister. Both simply nodded and walked home, leaving the cart for another day. Jack cleaned up the area before heading for the castle to go sleep.



Scootaloo stood in front of Rainbow twitching with nervousness about asking for help. "Um Rainbow can I ask you something?" She finally said tugging on the athletes sleeve.

"Sure squirt, fire away." Came the reply when Rainbow looked down at her.

"Could you maybe um..." She tried getting out but failing.

Rainbow smiled before squatting down to the girls height. "You know you can ask me anything right so lay it on me." She encouraged ruffling the little girls already messy hair.

"Could you help me come up with a routine for the talent show. I'm not very good with my wings but I can go fast on my scooter. Maybe you have some way to help me practice tricks and all that cool stuff you do." Scootaloo got out after hearing her idol's words.

Rainbow stretched back up and smiled. "Of course. Come on lets find a good place to see what you can do and work from there." She said waving her arm for the little girl to follow who was quick on her heels, buzzing with joy.



Sweetie had just stepped through the door to the Carousel when Rarity swooped over and dragged her to the modeling stage with a rack of clothes. "Perfect timing darling, let's get you a nice dress for the show." Rarity said excitedly.

"Wait you are coming to the show?" Sweetie asked almost forgetting about what she was about to be forced into.

"Of course dear, I'd never miss the chance to see my little sister perform on stage especially if it's with your wonderful singing." She replied cheerfully pulling a lime green dress off the rack. "Hmm no not a good color." She said after giving it some thought.

Sweetie stood there blushing before getting her big sisters attention. "Actually I was wondering if you could help me with making a song and getting the right music together." She asked kicking her foot on the ground with her head bowed down shyly. 

Rarity let out a squee on the news and rushed over to hug her sister. "Of course silly. I would love to help you and I know just the people to get the right beat to back you up. But first lets get this dress on you." She said putting her sister down and picking up a dress similar to the style worn in the Crystal Empire.
> The Cutie Mark Conundrum p.3
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack hated his life right now. He had gone to sleep hoping to get some nice rest but nooo. The Omegas just had to start up training again. "Can't even give me a week off to relax can you." He grumbled to himself only to feel a fist connect to his stomach making him fall to the ground. "Ah son of a bitch!" He shouted holding himself in a ball. Oh yeah, the training was focusing on his senses so the room was pitch black with no signs of the trainers.

"You need to focus." Growled Brave somewhere behind him. "It's been too long since your last training and who knows what trouble could be brewing around the land." He scolded, like Jack was a bad child.

Jack tried to get up but noticed a shuffling of feet to his left making him roll to the side dodging a fist coming for his face. "And how do you feel about this whole thing Lucky? What's your opinion?" He asked hoping to get a better sense of where the rabbit was.

"Oh, you know kicking and screaming here, a little worry there, the usual." Lucky replied from behind him making the human turn around hoping to catch the next attack but feeling a leg sweep his from under him.

"You are never going to improve if you don't start to focus cub." Brave said making noise in the background to mask Lucky's approaches. "You need to breathe and separate your surroundings." The lion coached, dragging his nails down a board.

Jack took another punch that sent him rolling. When he stopped, left on his back he closed his eyes and began to focus. "Separate surroundings? Ok lets think logically about this. What can be a good format?" He thought to himself when started to catch a rhythm in the noises. "Are the noises Braves making a song? Yeah, that's staying alive by the bee gees!" He thought. With that Jack hopped up and listened to the horrible version of the music for an out of place sound and..."There!" He shouted in his mind's mind turning and catching the leg going for his ribs. With a twist he pivoted on the balls of his feet sending Lucky into the ground. "HA HA, got you ya damn Trix mascot!" Cheered Jack only to receive a foot in his crotch. " Ah... mommy." He whimpered out as Lucky disappeared again into the darkness.

"Good catch but don't ever compare me to the Trix rabbit again!" Lucky shouted from the shadows, sending a fist out but now Jack knew the game and wasn't playing anymore.

"Left punch. Right kick. Spinning in the air and duck." His thoughts went through the course as he separated his surroundings into layers. Eventually the room lit up to reveal nothing but Lucky and Brave standing side by side across from Jack with proud looks on their faces.

"You have been showing great promise with your training. How about asking any questions you'd like while we still have time here." Lucky said walking up and taking a seat next to the sweating human on the ground.

"Well how about what are some things I can't do?" Asked Jack looking between the two Omegas, watching them think for a moment.

"Well you can't fly not without some outside assistance for starters. So no jumping off buildings or cliffs." Lucky said with a laugh.

"You also can't absorb magic very well. You can take some magic in but it has to be released almost immediately or you will be hurt." Brave added making a magic flame in his palms.

"So like uncle Iroh from Avatar right?" Jack said making the connection.

"Exactly. Directing but no holding, at least not without hurting yourself. Lucky confirmed making finger guns at the human.

The world began to disappear after a few more questions were asked like the limit of his speed and strength. Jack gave one last wave as the two in front of him faded away.



Jack woke up feeling better after the talk. More of his doubt had been removed after learning about Scorch and the whole corruption problem. Now he knew all he had to do was stay strong and nothing could go wrong for him. With these thoughts he smiled and jumped out of bed heading for the bathroom to get cleaned up for the day, singing a song lowly so as not to wake anyone up.

I saw the doorway in my dreams
I asked myself does it lead
I thought the island was my home
The outside world a great unknown
How little I knew.

The song flowed into his mind, bringing memories of his family and all the fun they would have. Reaching the bathroom he started the water in the shower and sang a little louder forgetting about the others sleeping for a moment as he got lost deeper into the music. His hands strumming to a air guitar as the notes moved across his mind.

That day we split the star shaped fruit
I knew that destiny’d uproot me
I saw it burning in the sand
I tried to fight and take his hand
And then he was gone.

He always found it weird about the song like a piece of information was never there for it that he needed. Jack stretched out an arm as the next thought came to mind while he sang. Turns out when his brother wrote the song he'd gotten super into kingdom hearts and wrote it for the family to sing. Jack stopped singing to laugh for a moment as the reaction they all had when his brother revealed what he had done was told to them. Everyone complained as they thought he'd just made a regular song but then they laughed with him and sang it some more.

I held the blade
It made the darkness fade
I did my best to find
A way to make us whole again
Like back when we were friends

As Jack washed the previous days dirt off of him the song played on in his mind, now just a hum now in his chest. After finishing and drying off he opened the door to reveal one SweetieBelle who had just a moment ago had her ear on the door but now stood blushing, drilling a hole into the floor from her stare. "Can I help you little one?" Asked Jack chuckling to himself as he past her, heading for his room to get changed.

Sweetie jumped up at the question and rushed after the half dressed man. "I need your help. See Rarity is good and all at singing and design but she hasn't been able to help me find a song that feels like it fits me." Sweetie explained stopping at the humans door as he stepped into the cover of a large cabinet doors. "Also what was that you were singing it sounded nice?" She added tilting her head to the side.

When Jack finished dressing he closed the door to the cabinet and smiled at the filly. "It's a song my brother made for different reasons that wouldn't make sense in this world since I'm pretty sure you guys don't have the game but he taught the family the song and it's fairly easy to learn." Jack said ruffling the fillies hair as he walked by. "And as for the help with your song I think I can work something out." He added waving his arm for the little girl to follow.

"Could you teach me that song?" SweetieBelle asked catching up to Jack making him pause. "If it's not to personal of a thing and you want to keep it." She quickly added kicking at the floor with her foot.

Jack chuckled before squatting down to her height. "I can teach you but first I'll need a guitar and another person you care for." He said catching the girls arm before she could bolt away. "Someone young and maybe likes you." Jack stated with a wink making the filly blush as she thought of a certain boy.

SweetieBelle gave a nod as the man let go. "Ok, I'll find the right person and meet you at Vinyl Scratches music shop!" She said jumping up and down.

"See you there." Jack said simply smiling at the excited filly's actions. After she was far enough out the door the human put his hands on his hips and looked down. "I have no fucking idea where that store is. Oh wait maybe spike knows." Jack mumbled to himself before perking up and strutting off for his target. He knew just where the dragon was at.



Spike was at the Carousel helping Rarity with the outfit orders that had come in from all the people joining the talent show. "When you need to perform at your best you need to look your best!" as Sapphire Shores would say. Right now though he was bringing a new pile of fabric to the working mare who was surrounded by floating outfits in different states of completion. Ducking under a pair of tap dancing shoes, Spike called out to the fashionista. "Hey, I have the next load of cloth you needed." He said making the fabric fly away when she took a hold of it in her magic not saying a word. "And the pins." He added turning around showing his back was covered in them. Those quickly followed the fabric that was in the air. "Need anything else from me?" He asked only to have a dress float in front of him and shake side to side as the mare focused on her craft. With that Spike started to head for the door but stopped once he saw who entered. 

"Hey there hot stuff." Teased Jack walking up to the dragon. "I need your help with something and figured it would be nice to also have a walk with you." He said kissing the dragons cheek making him blush.

"Ugh... Sure w-what do you need?" Spike tried to ask fighting to not get to excited.

"I'm helping SweetieBelle with her talent piece today and she said to meet her at some music shop that I have no idea how to get too." Jack explained shrugging his shoulders sheepishly.

"Oh, she must mean Vinyl Scratch's music shop. Yeah I know the way there just follow me." Spike said moving past the human and out the door but not before he smacked Jack's ass with his tail.

Jack turned and followed the dragon muttering to himself. "You are so getting it later." A slight blush across his features as Spike chuckled to himself heading towards the center of town. "So who exactly is this Scratch chick anyway I don't think I've met her?" Jack asked as they walked.

"You actually have though more in passing. Remember that mare with the neon blue hair and white fur at the DJ booth when you had your party?" Spike said watching as the human nodded. "Well that was Vinyl Scratch, one of the best DJ's anywhere." Spike said making it all click for Jack.

"Wait that mare who was playing all the music was Vinyl? Huh well I was pretty busy with everyone else I never did have the time to talk to her." Jack said rubbing his chin.

Spike stopped him in front of a store that had a thumping bass coming out of it mixed with classical music. "And we are here. I accept tips in cash, check, or kisses." Spike stated with a cheeky smile making Jack chuckle.

"How about a personal massage later?" Jack asked.

"Deal!" Spike shouted before pecking his lover's cheek and heading for Sweet Apple Acre's. "I got to go meet Big Mac and the others in the band to practice for the talent show." He said waving to Jack before taking off into a run.

With that Jack walked into the store the music getting a lot louder. He saw the DJ Vinyl going hard on the turn tables while next to her was a grey mare with a suit playing the cello just as hard. Both seemed almost like they were trying to be better then the other while issuing a challenge for their opponent to step up their game. Soon the song reached a climax and softly fell off as the two practically collapsed breathing hard. Jack couldn't help but clap at the show, amazed at what he just saw. "That was fantastic!" He shouted slightly his ears ringing a small bit.

Both mares practically jumped out of their skins on hearing him speak giving a scream. "AHHHHH!" When both saw who it was they calmed down. The mare in the suit stood up, fixing her attire. "Ahem, terribly sorry about that. We were not expecting anyone to come in today." She said blushing from her reaction.

"Hey you're the wicked badass who saved Dinky and fought those Diamond pups aren't you?" Vinyl said rushing up to him. "Vinyl, Vinyl Scratch and this here's my marefriend Octavia Melody." She stated shaking Jack's hand.

"So what can we do for you?" Asked Octavia walking closer to the man.

Jack took in their appearances as he got a better look at them. Vinyl definitely was the wild one and was built lean and strong probably from partying so much while Octavia was much larger built with a more noticeable bust and wider arms most likely from carrying around such a large instrument. "Well as you two know judging from the poster you have on your store front, there is a talent show coming up and one of my friends was hoping I could help them make a song to sing. She told me to come here but I guess they haven't arrived yet." Jack answered smiling towards the two. 

Both perked up at the mention of music and leaned closer to the man. "So you can sing?" Asked Octavia.

"What about instruments, what do you play?" Vinyl said eyeing Jack up and down. She stepped closer her hand walking up his chest making the man go slightly rigid. "Care to play something for us?" She added giving him puppy eyes.

Jack gulped before chuckling weakly. "Well I guess I have time till the two arrive." He said walking past the mares who were eyeing him up towards a rack with guitars on them. "Hm, well do you ladies want a soft beat or hard?" He ask looking at the two.

"Hard!" Octavia shouted before blushing as she covered her mouth making Vinyl laugh aloud before saying hard as well.

Jack picked up a electric guitar that would fit what he needed and after a bit of tuning and adjusting the speaker volume was ready to go. "Ok here's a little something called through the fire and the flames." Before shredding across the instrument playing the opening riff. The blast of music knocked over the two mares and threw the door to the business open letting anyone not even close hear the guitar being pushed to the limit.BOOM!

After playing the piece Jack stopped, breathing slightly hard with a smoking guitar in his hands from how fast he was playing. "Sorry, I'll pay for any damages." He said with a chuckle at their faces.

"Holy shit that was hot." Whispered Vinyl as she stared at the now broken guitar.

Octavia got up and walked towards the man slowly. "Tell you what let's make a deal. You come back and play some more songs you know and you can keep breaking the instruments." She said gingerly picking up the guitar, watching as a piece fell off. 

The bell on the door went off as Sweetie and a brown furred boy walked in with shocked looks on their faces. "Jack was that you?" Sweetie asked walking up to him.

"Yes, though I will say I was a bit rusty. I normally could play that faster." He said smiling making the others be even more amazed.

"Fas..f-faaassss faster?" Vinyl squeaked out looking ready to faint.

Jack laughed before turning to the new guy. "And who are you mister?" He asked kindly.

"Um my name is Button Mash sir." Came the weak reply. "I'm Sweetie's friend from school." He said looking up at the tall man.

"Well pleasure to meet you Button. I'm guessing you will be our partner in crime for the talent show then." Jack said patting him on the back before picking up another guitar. This time an acoustic one and heading for one of the sound rooms he could see. "Well come on then you two. We can't make you a song if you are out here." He shouted back at the two kids as he stepped inside the booth.

The two looked at each other before rushing after him leaving the mares to look at the slight mess of a room. "God he's hot" They said together.
> The Cutie Mark Conundrum p.4
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The music sessions had gone perfectly. Sweetie was a natural when it came to singing and Button sure wasn't lacking either. Both kept saying it was thanks to Jack who did his best to stay humble from all the praise. It didn't help though when Vinyl and Octavia heard him sing as well, leaving him with a small following that quickly grew when word got out about the pipes on the smiling warrior. Soon almost the entire town was begging him to preform at the show to see what the man could do. "Listen guys it's great and all that you want to hear me sing but I'm supposed to be one of the judges for deciding who's the best performance." He said to another group of citizens after they interrupted his lunch at the bakery.

"Well then how about we fix that." Came the voice of one Mrs. Cake, who walked up to Jack with a to-go box in hand. "Mayor Mare and Twilight are already the judges but since you are being asked so much I could just take up your spot as the judge." She said placing the box down in front of Jack and looking at his seated form.

"Are you sure? I wouldn't want to ruin anyone's chances at the reward or seem like I cheated by being in the show." Jack asked back at the plump mare.

"Oh hun I'm a baker and a good one at that. Rarity may have an eye for details but people will agree with me when I say you don't get sweets to look this good without some skill for seeing quality work." Cake said proudly tapping just under her eye. "Besides we can just make your little show as a side piece that can't win the reward. That way no one can say it's rigged." She added confidently.

Jack thought for a moment before looking at the small crowd around him that had been bugging him for a show. Giving a sigh he nodded before looking back at the mare with a smile. "Alright you convinced me. You'll be the third judge for the contest and I'll provide a song for everyone." This statement earned a cheer from the surrounding crowd who quickly dispersed to spread the news. 

Mrs. Cake sat down across from the young man with a questioning look. "By the way what even is the reward?" She asked leaning closer to him, her bust resting on the table top.

Jack looked up confused before registering what she said. "Oh, that's right I never told anyone. Well since I won't be a judge there's no reason for me to keep it a secret. The reward is a thousand bits and a favor from me. Under good reason of course." He said adding the last part with a chuckle.

The owner of the bakery couldn't help but giggle with him. "Well I can see why you wanted it as a secret. Well I better leave you to start preparing for your piece. See you at the show." She said getting up and patting his cheek, making the human blush as a memory fluttered through his mind for a moment.



Word got around just as fast as when people learned he could sing. Soon people were asking him to help with their parts or to see what other skills he had. Wanting to get away from the crowds Jack searched for Scootaloo hoping maybe he could help with her bit and get some breathing room. After an hour of searching he found her with Rainbow Dash working at a makeshift stunt coarse.

"Hey big man!" Shouted Rainbow waving at the approaching human. "Coming to see the awesome work we've come up with?" She asked once he got close enough.

Jack smiled and nodded "That and also to get away from the town for a little. I never thought people would be so interested to see what I could do." He said standing next to the techno color haired mare. "Which makes me wonder, where the heck is Scootaloo?" 

As if summoned a yell was heard connected to an orange blur passing them, following the coarse up a ramp and into the sky revealing the filly in question pulling ariel tricks on her scooter. "The she is." Rainbow casually said watching the stunt as if nothing could go wrong.

Jack was about to jump into action to save Scoots but noticed Rainbows stance. Knees slightly bent, wings partially stretched out, and her eyes trained on the little girl. She knows this is dangerous and is ready to take action. He thought to himself as he scanned the situation. Knowing Rainbow was faster then him too made Jack ease up and watch the scene unfold as Scootaloo finished her move set and landed on the ramp, sliding down to a stop just in front of the pair.

Breathing heavily Scootaloo removed her helmet and practically jumped at them. "Did you see that, did ya, did ya?" She asked excitedly, a massive grin stretched across her face while her small wings buzzed with the same energy.

"You were totally awesome twerp!" Rainbow encouraged, high-fiving the little girl. "You are going to kill it at the talent show, I just know it." She added with a playful ruffle of the small girls already messy hair.

"What about you Jack? What did you think about the stunt?" Scootaloo asked buzzing around the man.

He did his best to turn and look at the filly as she went around him laughing out loud. "It looked amazing and if everything goes according to plan you and the others should have your cutie marks in no time." He replied confidently, catching the filly and throwing her into the air gently while she giggled away. 

Rainbow couldn't help feel a small smile on her face watching the display of the two's affection feeling her heart beat a little faster. "You want something like that with him don't you?" a part of her mind asked. She blushed shooting back "What? no I don't need to be tied down to anyone or else I won't achieve my dreams." The other part of her laughed on it's side. "Face it, you know he wouldn't hold you back. If anything he'll be pushing you further, but what do I know I'm only part of you." The voice said fading to the back of her mind as the two in front of her stopped their little game.

"Hey Rainbow you okay?" Jack asked looking to the blushing mare, tilting his head to the side.

"Yeah, you're all red faced and stuff. Are you sick?" Scootaloo added walking up to her idol with a worried look on her face.

Rainbow quickly turned away from the two. "I...It's nothing... just uuhhh your stunt was so great I'm all pumped up to do my own. Yeah that's it! I'll go do that right now bye!" She said taking off in a cloud of dust and blasting through a nearby cloud, leaving a sizable hole.

"Huh, well that was new." Jack said then turning to the little filly. "Hey Scoots want to go get ice cream to celebrate your successful talent routine?" He asked immediately getting the fillies attention.

"EEEEHHHH, really?!" The orange girl screamed pulling on the man's hand. "Come on, I know just the place to go get some." She said tugging with all her might to move Jack but he would't budge.

He looked down at her excitement, his eye's glazing over for a second as he saw his little sister in Scootaloo's place. "Yeah, let's go." He said softly as the image faded away, letting the filly guide him.

The trek back into town was a pleasant one filled with the laughter of the pair as they swapped jokes back and forth or told stories. "And then me and the others crashed into the top of the tree, falling all the way down it till we hit the ground covered in sap and leaves. We learned that day that we weren't getting our marks in catapult riding. I don't think I ever got rid of all the sap still." She finished giggling while running a hand through her short mane. "Oh we're here." She stated stopping in front of the shop.

Jack looked up at the sign. "The Ice Box. Well not a bad name I guess. Come on let's get you that treat." He said walking towards the door only to have it pushed out and into his face. "Ah my nose." He whined clutching it.

"Watch where you're going!" A demanding voice said in front of him. When he looked up he saw two fillies that seemed close to the crusader's age. One was a grey pony with glasses and while the other was a pinkish pony with a tiara who did not look happy.

"Hey, you should be the one more careful. You could seriously hurt someone." Shot back Scootaloo walking closer to Jack.

"Can it blank flank." The one with the tiara spat with venom in her voice while glaring at Scootaloo.

"Ok hold it. Just who the hell are you." Jack questioned after seeing the crusader flinch at the title. "It's not nice to insult people. Especially one's as nice as Scootaloo here." He said standing to his full height.

"And who exactly do you think you are you hairless ape." The bratty filly asked. "But fine, I'll humor you. I'm Diamond Tiara and this is Silver Spoon."

Jack rolled his eyes. "I can feel the rich bitch attitude rolling off this one." He thought before looking back to the little girls. "Well the name's Jack. You know, the human who saved Dinky from the manticore and fought off the Diamond Dogs." He said folding his arms as he looked down at the two. "Now I believe you owe us an apology." He finished leaning down over them.

To Tiara's credit she didn't fully flinch away like Silver did. "I don't have to do anything. You were the one getting in my way." She tried getting out confidently but stuttered a little on learning who she was talking too.

"Yeah, she almost spilled her ice cream when she opened the door because of you." Silver Spoon finally spoke up but quickly deflated when Jack's gaze shifted to her. "Um, that is... maybe you should ughhhh." She tried adding but failing.

"You are the one's who ran a door into my face and then insulted my friend but whatever you two aren't worth it. Life will catch up to you if you keep that attitude up. Come on Scootaloo let's get you something nice." Jack said turning to his partner and smiling which helped to lift her mood as the two past the stunned fillies. Once inside the pair found the shop mostly empty save for a familiar group.

"Hey there Dinky." Said Scootaloo who rushed over to her friend. "I hope Diamond and Silver weren't mean to you." She added hugging the other girl.

"No, they were mean but they wouldn't try with mom and her herd here." Dinky replied turning to point at her mom Derpy sitting with Cheerilee and Big Mac. "So what are you doing here?" She asked looking back to the orange filly but then noticing who was right behind her. "Mr.Teller!" She shouted excitedly, running up to him and hugging his waist. 

Jack chuckled before kneeling down to properly hug Dinky. "Hello little one, I thought I told you to just call me Jack." He said noticing the others coming closer. "Hello everyone nice to see you all again."

"Same to you wonder boy." Said Derpy walking up and kissing his cheek. "What brings you here?" She asked, her eyes focusing for a second on him before crossing again.

"He wanted to get me ice cream for doing my stunt right." Scootaloo answered for him before turning to him. "Isn't that right?" She asked looking to him as if to make sure it wasn't a trick.

He laughed at the look before nodding his head. "Yes, you can get whatever you'd like so long as you don't eat to much and get a tummy ache." He confirmed.

Scootaloo gave a cheer, rushing to the counter to place her order. The adults laughed at the young girls reaction and chatted as they waited for her to return. "Hey Jack I got's a favor to ask ya." Big Mac said after a while.

Jack turned to him and smiled "Sure big guy what do you need?" He asked placing the necessary bits down to pay for the large sundae the filly he was taking care of got.

"Me an' the band are in a bit of a pickle. See our singer is out of town back to Cloudsdale on family emergency so we need help. I heard you're a pretty good singer if word aroun' town is anything tah go by." Mac said scratching his head and looking around sheepishly.

Jack paused for a moment and thought on it. "Well I was going to join the show but I will warn you that if I do help you guys will be removed from the chance to win the reward since it's coming from me." He finally said, looking at the large stallion.

"Mac and the others aren't actually interested in the reward. They just like playing for others so no real loss for them." Cheerilee answered back, staring back at Jack.

When he looked to Big Mac he saw him nodding agreeing with the statement. "Well alright then I'll do it. When do you need to meet?" Jack inquired, brushing off some ice cream that landed on him from the messy fillies attack on her pile. "The shows in about two weeks now so not a lot of time to work on a song from scratch unless you guys already have something." He added.

Mac looked him in the eyes and smiled. "Eyup, already got something for ya. Stop by the barn tomorrow and we can practice." He simply said.

With the plan in place the group chatted a little longer before heading their separate ways as it was getting late. "Thank you for the ice cream Jack." Scootaloo said hugging the man.

"Think nothing of it little one." Jack replied quietly as they pulled away and he started to walk back to the castle. He stopped when a hand grabbed his own, turning showed Scootaloo looking at the ground blushing lightly. "Is something the matter?" He asked with a raised eye brow.

"Um, can I ask you something?" She replied softly.

"That's definitely different." Jack thought to himself seeing the normally loud and energetic girl be so quiet. "Of course Scootaloo. You can ask me anything." He replied stepping down to be eye level with the little filly.

"Could I umm... maybe just every now and then... call. You. Big brother?" She finally asked looking away and flinching slightly when his grip on her hand tightened. Her mind failed for a moment when she was pulled into a hug by Jack who seemed to be shaking slightly with a ragged breath.

"Of course you can... sis." He said after calming himself down. This earned a surprisingly strong hug from the small filly who thanked him repeatedly before stepping back and waving as she headed home. Jack was almost so busy watching her leave he barely registered that Brave was standing next to him, leaning on the wall.

"You best be careful." Was all he said when their eye's locked, The warning clear as day.

Jack's hands balled into fists. "I know, I know, a hero's life is dangerous. Don't get attached or else you'll have more targets to protect I've heard the cliches before." Jack said turning towards the castle and walking.



A shadowy figured floated through the tree line in the Everfree as if searching for something. When it came upon the abandoned castle a deep rumble of laughter escaped the cloaked form. "Soon I'll show these ponies what a real monster is like. They'll regret what they did to me, what they did to us... They'll pay, they'll all pay!" The figured exclaimed into the empty forest.



Two weeks later-

The stage was set and all equipment needed was in place. Jack took a few steps back to admire the work as Applebloom put in the final nail. "It's finally finished." She said wiping her forehead. Jumping off and standing next to it the two stayed like that for a moment. Applebloom reached a hand out her palm upward that Jack happily slapped it. "What do we do now?" She asked looking to the man.

"Well for starters we get cleaned up, then get ready for the show since it's tomorrow." Jack replied brushing off his pants slightly before walking back to the castle. "Make sure to be there Applebloom!" He shouted over his shoulder to the waving filly. On the walk back Jack ran into Sweetie who was with Button Mash. "Hey you two! All ready for the show?" He asked when they got close enough.

"Yep, all thanks to your help. I just hope I don't freeze..." Sweetie replied with a worried look on her face. "I've never really performed for a crowd before." She said.

Jack chuckled under his breath. "Oh I'm sure you'll do just fine besides you have a cute boy willing to help you." He teased nudging Button closer to her making the pair blush. "As long as you two focus nothing can go wrong for your performance." He stated, laughing as he walked past them back into his home to prepare for the show.
> The Cutie Mark Conundrum p.5 (minor editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Before long the day of the show was upon the town. Ponies buzzed around putting up streamers and party items as Pinkie Pie, being the party animal she was, saw this as a chance to throw a large party after the show. "Ok, group A I need ribbons and confetti on sections two, four, and seven. Group B get those desserts in place for the buffet and make it double time!" Came the crazy mare's voice from a megaphone as she watched over and coordinated the groups.

"Got to admit Pink's I didn't expect this kind of skill and order from you." Jack admired, walking up behind her.

"Well of course silly, it's my job. I'm one of the best party planners in Equestia for a reason after all. I can fit any style no matter the crowd!" She proudly, proclaimed puffing out her chest.

Jack rolled his eyes as he moved through the crowds stepping to the left or right when necessary to not run into anypony. "Hey Lucky, Brave, how are you guys holding up?" He said in his mind to the two Omegas.

The pair popped into existence on his shoulder in chibi like forms. Lucky stretched and yawned, relaxing back while Brave was rigid like a soldier always. "Hey Jacky boy, Me an' the big puddy cat over there were just going over past hero's and some of the stuff we helped them accomplish. Lucky replied, leaning into Jack's finger as it scratched behind his ears, his foot thumping.

Brave merely grunted at the nickname before continuing where his partner left off "For example Great Arch Duke Rockter of Terra Prime. We gave him the ability and strength to over throw his evil father and assume the place of ruler leading to over four millenniums of peace." He said pushing Jack's other hand away from being petted.

"Wow, you almost sound proud of that feat." Jack said looking at the little lion with raised corners of his mouth.

Brave looked at the area around them before replying. "I am but it is also expected that we supply that type of quality in a hero. Someday I hope to do that with you as well."

Jack couldn't help but feel the smile grow. "Awww, you do care about me." He teased scratching the Omega's head. Even though Brave would rather die then admit it the scratches did feel nice. "But I guess I should get my outfits ready for the show. I may not be a judge now but I still need to welcome everypony." He said after finishing his walk around town.

The two faded away once he stepped foot into the castle entrance. "Hey Jack, getting ready for the show?" Twilight asked lounging in a chair, a book floating next to her. "I got to say it's nice of you to do all of this for the crusaders. Helps with the town as well." She added getting up from the seat and walking closer to the human. "I also hear you are going to perform as well. Is that true?" She said, leaning closer to the man.

Jack chuckled at the questions. "No problem about the show and yes I am singing at it." He said, answering her questions. Slipping past he moved for the stairs. "But I have to get ready now so I'll see you and the girls there." He called over his shoulder.



The cloaked figure moved through the long since forgotten halls of the castle searching. "Oh, little book." It cooed "Where are you. I know you are here somewhere." It sang as it ran a clawed hand across a book shelf one tome looked out of place. Giving it a small tug set the mechanisms in motion, making the shelf swing to the side to reveal a tunnel with a dark force of energy emanating from it. "Found you." The figured whispered as a sharp teeth filled grin spread across its hollow features.

Descending into the dark abyss the figure came into a room holding only a single book bound by chains and and fading magic spells. As the figure drew closer, letting off small bursts of magic severing the ties of the leather bound piece. Pulling it close while letting a deserved laugh escape it's form the book pulsed with life as the spells that held it faded, sending a signal into the flow of magic, searching for two certain rulers.



*Gasp* came the sudden breath from both rulers as they dined in their hall. Celestia looked to Luna with worry. "I hope that wasn't what I think it was." She asked praying her sister wouldn't confirm her fear.

Luna sat there shocked before nodding her head. "It was." Came her soft reply standing up. "The tome of death has just been released." She said and how she wish she never had to utter them. "I'll get discord."

"I'll get the guards." Celestia stated firmly already planning for hell.



Jack was having a fantastic time. The show was about to start with all of ponyville around to see. Hell, even Fluttershy came out and she hates crowds. "Nothing could make this day go bad." He whispered to himself. Turning around he ran into a stallion with a dark brown coat and funny looking detective hat. 

"Oh, my apologize I wasn't watching where I was going." The stallion said getting up from the ground and offering Jack his hand. 

"Don't mention it uhh... who are you?" Jack asked looking to the strange man.

The stallion perked up. "Ah where are my manners. I am Murphy but you don't need to remember me." The now known Murphy said walking around a set of boxes and disappearing.

"Ooookkk." Jack said to himself. "Weird but got bigger fish to fry." He stated shaking his head and walking to where the talent groups were waiting. "Hello everypony. Are you ready to put on a show!" He asked the group earning a small cheer from the contestants. Moving his eyes over them he saw Sweetie warming up with Button while Scootaloo was stretching out with the help of Applebloom. Soon it was time to get the show start, taking a deep breath Jack walked out onto the stage to a roaring crowd. Once he got to the mic he cleared his throat. "Hello Ponyville, You all have been waiting patiently for weeks now. Helping your friends or family who are performing practice. I'd like to just say a few things before we get started." He said once the crowd calmed down. Turning around he called out the crusaders who to their credit had brave faces on. Once they stood in front of him, he let a hand rest on Applebloom's shoulder. "These three little girls are the reason the show even came into existence. Applebloom personally helped build most of this stage and the other two will be performing in the hopes that this will finally earn their cutie marks. So lets give them a round of applause for their help." He said making the crowd give a thunderous cry of encouragement. As the three bowed a glow appeared on Bloom's neck that when it faded revealed a mark of a shield with an apple inside behind a hammer. The crowd was silent as Jack started to laugh. "One down, two more to go ayy girls?" He said making the crowd clap more as the three jumped up and down in excitement, rushing back into the curtains.

"He really is a sweet heart isn't he?" Fluttershy asked her friends as they watched the show get started. Only Applejack wasn't there as she had gone back to celebrate with her sister.

"He's super duper great with kids too. I even heard Mrs. Cake talking about using him as a babysitter so I could have a break from watching the twins." Pinkie agreed bouncing in place on her tail.

Twilight was about to respond to her friends remarks but was interrupted when Spike belched out a letter. Grabbing it with her magic she read down it, her eye's grew with each word. "Oh mother of Faust." She whispered to herself making Rarity gasp.

"Whats with the swearing dear. That isn't a language a princess should use." Her friend reprimanded. She stopped when Twilight handed her the scroll to read. After a moment she whispered "Oh fuck."

Now everypony and dragon's attention in the group was on the two but before they could ask the show started up. The first ponies up were Snips and Snails, They were trying for a slap stick comedy that by the end left a few ponies in the crowd covered in whipped cream. They quickly were booed off the stage.

Next came Octavia and Vinyl who were performing their mix of classic with dubstep.woosh was what the ponies watching felt when the music played across them. The crowd was stunned, even the elements forgot the important message for a moment. The the music drew to a close making the crowd cheer for the spectacle.

Performer after performer came each with various degrees of success till it was Scootaloos turn. The crowd shifted to look at the stunt course that had been placed next to the stage for the more daring performers. She stood at the top of a ramp, the wind blowing lightly across the park. Then with a small tilt she went down the ramp her scooter under her while her wings buzzed at an increasing speed till she hit the looping section of the course, spinning up and over repeatedly. Launching out the other side the on lookers could only gasp, some even looking away as she slipped into the tunnel system rotating around in a spiral before taking a sharp turn, her wheels sparking on the ground from the high speeds. Her final stop was the wall as someponies had gone to calling it when it was built. Flapping her wings as hard as they could, the little filly rocketed up the obstacle into the air, flipping trick after trick till the momentum wore off and she fell back down. She skidded to a halt at the end of the wall, welcomed by the roar of the crowd followed by a flash of light on her neck to reveal a shield with wings inside of it.

With a squeal of glee she was quickly scooped up by Rainbow and her parents, who took her back stage to celebrate with bloom. As they past Jack the filly called out. "Thanks big bro for all the help." Making Jack chuckle and wave with a smile.

After that performance a break was called for everypony to calm down and get refills on their food and drinks. Jack wandered around chatting with people till he froze in place. "What was that?" He said, seeing Lucky and Brave materialize in front of him.

That would be a very bad sign." Brave grunted out, his fur standing on edge while Lucky looked around.

This isn't good. Whatever that was could only mean there's a new baddy on the loose and this one isn't a joke either." Lucky said once he finished scanning the area.

Jack sighed before focusing his senses on the surroundings, not hearing anything out of place. "Whatever it was is gone now. Should we cancel the show?" He asked looking at the two. Both shook their heads.

Brave cleared his throat before talking "Best thing we can do is continue so as not to cause a panic but be ready for anything."

"Hey Jack are you ok?" Came a voice behind him. Whirling around showed Tempest with a light blue unicorn mare with a wizard hat on. "You seemed like you saw a nightmare or something." She said stepping closer as the two Omegas disappeared.

"I... i'll admit there's something wrong. Also who are you?" He said turning to the mystery mare who was somewhat hiding behind Tempest.

The mare's face scrunched up before stepping forward. "I am The Grea... umm I mean my name is Trixie, Trixie Lulamoon." She said, catching herself before saying what almost seemed like a stage name. "I had heard there was going to be a talent show here and wanted to see, maybe even fix a few old ties I had here." She explained.

Jack raised a brow, his eyes flicking to Tempest who only shrugged. "Well it's a pleasure to meet you Trixie. I'm Jack, the residential human." He said sticking a hand out to shake while smiling.

Trixie shook it firmly. "Pleasures all mine. So what's this problem you have?" She questioned taking a step back. 

Jack slapped his head. "Ah thats right. Listen you two I need you to get the elements together and contact Celestia. A really powerful... something is around and it could get dangerous. I know I'm a tough guy but I'd like some basically goddesses as back up." He stated making the two glance at each other.

"Um, actually I think she already knows." Tempest said, raising a finger.

Jack squinted at her. "What do you mean?" He asked.

"The girls got a letter saying to get ready for something but she didn't say what, only that she was bringing backup and to warn you." Trixie said. "We were actually looking for you." She added.

Before Jack could say another thing a section of the park near the festivities blew up. Everypony ducked and covered their heads from the debris. Looking up Jack was worried. "I think she needs to hurry faster."
> A Hero is Made! (Major editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The screams of ponies filled the air as the trio rushed to the site of the explosion. "Tempest there's probably going to be a fight, think you aren't too rusty?" Jack asked looking to the mare in question. 

Her bracelets glowed as two blades appeared in her hands. "I don't know, think you can keep up?" She shot back confidently, a spark appearing in her eye.

Trixie pointed ahead of the two. "There, I see somepony." She said rushing ahead quickly followed by the pair. Reaching the spot showed a yellow furred mare under a piece of broken stand. "Carrot Top are you okay?" She asked working on lifting the weight with her magic.

"Does it look like I'm okay?" Carrot shot back, anger etched across her face. Taking a breath she calmed down. "Sorry, just please get this off. I don't know how my leg is doing, it's gone numb." She said her voice much more level.

Jack and Tempest got on either side of the wooden wall and heaved with the help of Trixie's magic, clearing enough for Carrot to crawl out. "Trixie, take Carrot to safety and find the elements. I'll take Tempest and find who is responsible for this." Jack ordered earning a nod from The blue unicorn.

"How will we find you?" She asked before taking off.

Jack put on his signature grin. "Why just follow the sounds of fighting." He stated as if it was obvious. With that everyone went their separate directions. Another explosion rocked the area followed by a war cry to the left of the two. "I think that's our bad guy." Jack said running in that direction. When the two got to the new crater what they saw made them pause. Two massive golem like creatures stood across from them. One looked to be made of rock and stone while the other of metal and iron. The rock golem raised a giant war hammer with a head twice Jacks size above it's head ready to let it slam a familiar filly. "Dinky!" Shouted Jack rushing forward with a burst of speed while summoning magic into his palm.

Dinky had closed her eye's waiting for the end when she heard a grunt above her. Opening her eye's revealed Jack crouched slightly with his hands pressed to the hammers face holding it up. "Jack!" She yelled, her eye's like saucers at the power Jack was showing.

Jack did his best to look at her with a smile. "Getting into trouble again are we? If you could do me one favor?" He asked.

"What?" She replied.

"RUN!" He shouted as he was pushed to a kneeling position as one of his legs faltered. Dinky took off not daring to look back as she heard another explosion.

Tempest had seen the trouble Jack had gotten into and once Dinky had gotten far enough away she launched herself at the monster with a magically charged kick sending a minor explosion out that took of half its face. "Jack are you okay?" She asked backing up to the human.

"Give me like *huuuh* Five hoo boy...uh five minutes." He breathed out trying to stand up. "Lucky! Brave! I don't care which one just tell me what the fuck these things are! Nothings hit that hard before." He said to the air which made Tempest glance his way before focusing back on the two.

Brave appeared decked in fully plate armor that practically radiated heat. "Those would be the blood brawlers. They are enemies we had killed a long time ago with different heroes we had trained. The fact they are here is bad news." He said with anger in his voice.

Lucky appeared next in dark black assassin gear, his smile gone. They killed four of the hero's we had brought before they fell themselves." He added, pointing his sword at them. You need to stay away from them till the help Celestia is bringing arrives. They are too strong for you to kill alone." He stated grimly.

Looking ahead at the two monsters Jack sighed. "Sorry guys but I can tell these guys won't let me do that and besides I need to keep their attention as long as possible so everyone can escape." Jack said resting a hand on Lucky's shoulder. Again he stepped closer to the brawlers. "Tempest, please for the love of all that is holy do not get caught by one of them or you will die." He stated readying a fighting stance.

"No you don't say, I was feeling like seeing how they hit." She replied sarcastically as more blades spun around her. The two charged forward but quickly had to change direction when the metal beast slammed its axe into the ground creating a divide. Jack ducked under the swing of the rock monster sending shot after shot into it's arm till it broke off making the hammer crash to the ground. Tempest on the other hand sliced her way up the arm of the metal one that she had jumped on, gouging holes into it. Both beasts roared with anger at the damage before each taking swings at the offending attackers.

Jack if you are really serious in fighting these things then you need to know how to kill them. Each have a crystal in their chests where a heart would be that if you don't destroy they will keep coming back. Brave stated in Jack's mind.



Celestia had never flown this fast in centuries. She and her sister had collected the people they needed and were rushing for Ponyville as fast as possible, hoping they weren't to late to stop the danger. They saw a flash of energy come from Ponyville only making her fly faster. "FUCK,FUCK,FUCK,FUCK,FUCK!" She shouted in her mind, worrying about her new lover and all the residents there.

Discord and Luna were racing next to each other as Luna filled in the details to god of chaos. "So what you are saying is you two left a book that can bring to life anything that could die no matter the world in your old abandoned castle!" He shouted over the winds.

Luna scowled before replying "We never expected anypony to figure out it even existed. Only my sister and I were the last living members who knew about it." When she looked to their destination she could see more flashes of light. "I just hope we can lower how much damage is around." She whispered to herself.



Jack was furious. No he was passed furious, he was pissed. These monsters had taken everything they threw at them and healed faster then they could dig for the crystals. "Just.Fucking.Die!" He shouted sending a shot into the chest of the metal brawler, tearing it apart to reveal the target only to have it covered again. "AAGGHHHGHGHH!" Jack shouted in rage feeling his body turn into beast form. Charging at the brawler he leaped at it, sinking his teeth into the metal with a vicious crunch, tearing as quickly as he could in to it's chest finding the crystal. With an animalistic screech he crushed his jaws over it shattering the gem, not hearing the warning cries from the Omegas. The brawler gave one last war cry before death took over it as the crystal exploded with searing hot beams, one gouging across Jack's eye. The form of the monster fell apart as Jack's form rolled out, smoking rising from his wound.

The other brawler which had been preoccupied with Tempest noticed his brother's death. With a outburst it threw Tempest to the side into a cart and charged Jack. The now enraged brawler kicked Jack and sent him flying into the stage, splintering it to pieces as the structure collapsed on top of him. The creature then began to pick up pieces of his fallen brother and meld them to its own form creating an even larger creature now with a glow of power rolling from it.

Jack, you shouldn't have done that!" Lucky shouted at his human carriers form. You have to kill both at the same time or they fuse!" He explained.

Jack's remaining eye shot open to stare at the Omega making Lucky take a step back. "Why didn't you tell me!" He shouted back rushing into the fight as the elements and Trixie arrived.

"JACK!" They cried watching him charge the now single monster. Fluttershy looked near them and saw Tempests limp form in the cart, with a gasp she rushed forward checking her wounds. "Oh thank Celestia." She whispered when she saw nothing was fatal and she had just been knocked out.

"Girls, I need you to put a barrier around this thing till the help arrives. Can you do that?" Jack's beast form growled out after being thrown again. He rushed back in to keep the brawlers attention. Some of the bone armor he had was broken or cracking leaving gaps for the monster to hit.

"Alright ladies it's time to be heroes again." Twilight commanded summoning her tiara while the others followed suit. With a rainbow pattern swirling around them they send off the blast at the offending beast causing it to stumble back as a gem like shield appeared around it. They tried striking the surface but it bounced off, going again and again striking the shield trying to break it with no avail.

Jack was breathing heavily when he reverted back to his human form, falling to the ground. "Thanks... girls." He wheezed out, a cough raking through his body as some blood came out. "Oh that's not good." He grunted trying to stand but falling over again.

Fluttershy and Rarity rushed over to look over him. "Rarity, take my emergency kit and sew up any open cuts you see on him." Flutters ordered, all her shyness gone. She and Rarity worked in silence for a moment covering any marks or wounds on Jack's battered body till they had him stable. "Okay, you'll survive." She sighed after sitting back.

Celestia and the others finally arrived to see the destroyed area. "What in Tartarus happened here." She said looking over the area with shock till her eyes fell on Jack. "Oh no,no,no, are you ok?" She asked rushing over. Grimacing at his eye she looked over his body.

"Hey there sunshine, nice of you to visit." Jack tried to tease and put on a smile but groaning when he tried to look to her. "Big guy over there. He has a gem like thing in his chest. It has to be destroyed to kill him." He shouted through a coughing fit to the guards. Each gave a nod and marched closer to the enemy drawing their weapons, ready for anything. If it did this kind of damage to Jack then it wasn't some play thing.

Discord and Luna were looking at the surrounding area, scanning for any traces of the book. "Where is it.." Discord muttered to himself. "Something that powerful must be oozing a trail." He said scratching his chin.



The cloaked figure smiled from the edge of the tree line, watching as all of these events unfolded. "Perfect, they're all here." He whispered flipping through the book to the page he wanted. With a hushed voice he cast the spell needed to make the fun last a little longer.



The group had collected to go over what they knew about the situation while the guards watched the magic cage. That is until one noticed a crack on it and seeing the monster raise its hammer end to it. "Everypony back!" He shouted ducking to the side as the weapon connected with the cage.

BOOM!

The monster gave a roar charging at them with it's weapon already raised. Jack looked up and tried to stand to help fight but was pulled back down by Spike. "Sorry Jack, but you aren't in any condition to fight." Spike apologized holding him down.

Celestia and Luna stepped forward. "Let us take your place." Luna said summoning her battle armor. With a cry the sisters charged the monster joining in the fray as Jack and the others looked on. Each warrior delivered blow after blow on to the beast, tearing chunks away but never doing enough to get a clear shot at the crystal inside. The brawler attacked with his weapon sending each one flying, stomping or swinging to keep them away long enough to repair itself.

The fight raged till everypony was tired and faltering. Then Celestia made an error. She was thrown into her sister knocking both to the ground. Using this opportunity to kill the beast raised it's weapon and swung with the axe side downward. Time slowed for Jack as he watched, he felt his heart beat quicken as a flood of power rushed through him and a voice in his mind whispered. "Save them." as he felt his body charge forward, an armor like nothing he had seen before began to build on him but had not quite finished when he reached them and swung them to the side leaving him in their place.

The blade exploded on contact with his body.

The ground threw up a cloud covering the hero and monster but they all could hear the cry of pain followed by a crash of a large object to the ground. As the dirt covering the two moved out of the way they saw Jack clad in Darkened metal with white highlights across his body, with legs like that of a standing animal, and a helmet that seemed to mix rabbit with lion's mane. He raised a hand as a hammer appeared. Clenching it in his fist he swung it down, blowing a hole into the monsters chest, then another, and another till the crystal's glow poured out. With a battle cry he swung once more crushing the fake heart, sending waves of light out into the sky as the beast finally died.

Jack fell off the disintegrating corpse to the ground, not moving an inch. Everyone rushed to his side that could finding him unresponsive. 

"Get him to the hospital now!" Ordered Luna to Discord. The god picked him up gently as the armor fell of him and teleported to the Ponyville hospital, commanding the doctors there to prepare an operation room. The others rushed after, some having to hobble to the destination, hoping they weren't too late.
> Phantoms and Regrets (Major editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"So...cold." Jack thought, his eyes fluttering open to see nothing but an inky black void. He was leaned back, floating in nothing with no solid ground anywhere to be seen. "Where am I?" He tried to say but it was as if a muted layer had been placed over him as no sound came out. Off in the distance he heard the cries of small children to what he hoped wasn't a massive monster. He tried checking over his body but found he couldn't move. "Okay, let's stay calm. What is the last thing I can remember. Okay first was the show, then the monsters came, and then one...tried... to...HOLY SHIT CELESTIA!" He shouted in his head as he remembered finally what happened. The noises in the distance seemed almost to get louder and more agitated as his mood shifted.

"Hey mind not shouting in here mate." Came a voice behind him. Jack couldn't turn to see who it was so the voice spoke up again once it saw him struggling. "You have to think about turning not just try and physically move yourself dude." It said.

Jack paused for a moment and thought of moving. Eventually he began rotating to see behind him. The figure standing in front of him was shrouded in dim lighting that obscured their features. "Who are you?" Jack asked once he finally was centered.

The figure began laughing, the sound almost calming in a way with how happy it sounded. "Well," The figure started as their voice changed and warped into a man's. "You're a smart boy. Does this handsome face remind you of anyone?" He said as the light diminished enough to show his features.

Jack looked closely till his eye's widened in shock. "Scorch?"



Everyone was huddled around the operating room window, watching as the surgeons worked to save the life of a certain human.Guards were scattered around the area on the orders of finding the book and obliterating any and all targets who may use it. Fluttershy was busy counseling the solar princess who was deep in her mind. "There, there, everything will be alright." Fluttershy cooed trying to ease the sobbing ruler.

"It's all my fault! I didn't get there fast enough and then let myself be open to an attack." Celestia cried out pushing more into the gentle mare. Fluttershy was the tallest out of her friends but even she was struggling to not fall over from the giant princess on her shoulder.

The others were busy going over what happened and the plan going forward. "I'm all for a bit of chaos but even I know that when something dies it should stay dead." Discord remarked once they got to the point of the recap about the book of the dead.

The conversations continued till finally a doctor in blood drenched scrubs walked out of the room and stood in front of the group. Removing his mask he sighed "He'll live." He said making everyone's hearts rise. "But his right eye is completely gone from some kind of magical burn. Whatever did this to him was trying to kill and honestly if it was anypony else they'd be dead from the amount of blood loss. Something in that man won't die." He added making everyone present shrink back down but relaxed a bit knowing he would live.

As everyone left they found a small crowd outside of the hospital. Big Mac stepped forward out of it. "How's he doin'?" He asked his normally deep voice taking a softer edge.

Luna looked over the crowd. "They really do care about him." She thought. Taking a deep breath she stood in front and addressed the crowd. "Dear citizens of Ponyville. You need not worry about Jack, we have learned he will live but I imagine it will take some time before he is fully able to join you all. Have strength and know your favorite human will be okay." she said. This calmed the crowd down and most started to trickle away and back to their lives. A few lingered like Vinyl and Octavia who looked saddened at the situation but eventually they left as well.

After, the group walked back to the castle to wait and see what would become of the new hero of Ponyville.



Jack struggled in his spot when he realized who he was talking too. "How are you here, you died. I saw it when Celestia showed me her memory." He questioned, unable to move away. Not registering yet he could talk now.

"Calm down and let me explain okay." Scorch said raising his hands in a sign of peace. "Yes, I did die but not in the normal sense. See, when the corruption took over my body I tore out all the good that was left in me and fused it into Brave and Lucky." He explained. He began gliding closer when he saw Jack wasn't fighting his spot as much. He placed a hand on Jack's shoulder helping him stop hovering and said, "I then waited for the chance when a new hero would be chosen that would end up in Equeastria to help me finish what I started." He continued to explain.

"And what might that be?" Jack asked, still wary of the stallion.

"Well simply put. I need help killing myself." Scorch said, his eye's meeting Jack's



A week had passed since the attack and Jack still wasn't waking up. Twilight was looking down at his form, sadness written in her eyes. "Please wake up." She whispered. It was her turn to watch over him as the group took turns so he wouldn't be alone. "If he wakes up.." A voice in the back of her head teased maliciously. Gritting her teeth she spat back, "He will, I just have to believe." The voice just laughed as it faded back to its dark corner.

"I believe we can help put you at ease." Came a voice across the bed from her.

When she looked up she almost screamed from the sudden appearance of a lion and rabbit. "Wh...who are you?" She questioned readying a spell.

"Woo, woo, woo, calm down there. We've already met somewhat. The name's Lucky and this is Brave." The rabbit explained.

"We are the Omegas in Jack that provide him his power." Brave explained. It's also partially our fault he is this way. You see Jack can turn into different forms. One such form is Hero form, though it draws a lot of strength and can be damaging if the body isn't ready for it. He continued.

Twilight was confused beyond belief. "What does that have to do about Jack?" She asked.

Lucky rested a hand on Jack's forehead. It has everything to do with him because he pulled on that form when he wasn't ready to kill the brawler. How do we explain it. You know how when a unicorn uses too much magic they become exhausted and if they use too much they can slip into a coma or die?" Lucky asked.

Twilight thought for a moment when it clicked. "You mean Jack used that form and it took too much power. That's why he hasn't woken up?" She said. When the two strange beings nodded their head she asked her next question. "Will he wake up?"

Both looked to each other before turning back to her. "Yes, he will. But he has to be the one to drag himself out of it first." Brave said, gazing at the man.

Twilight turned to look at Jack, a frown stretching across her face.



"What the hell do you mean by that?" Jack asked, his eye's narrowing.

Scorched sighed. "Listen, when I removed this part of me the corruption had full control of my body. When Celestia 'killed' it." He said making quotation marks with his hands. "She really only put it down for a time. Now it's up and walking again and if that wasn't enough it has the book of the dead and the power to raise an undead army." He stated frowning at the end.

Jack stood there for a moment before replying. "Let's say I trust you enough on this. How am I supposed to fight you er- I mean him and how are you going to help me?" He asked.

Scorch smiled. "Well basically the only way is to give you a power boost and all my memories so you will know how I fight in the hopes you can defeat me and destroy my shuffling corpse." He answered with a laugh.

"You are talking about this so casually. What gives?" Jack inquired, folding his arm as if he had it crossed.

"Well I could ask you the same thing about your eye or rather lack of." Scorch shot back teasingly. "But to answer your question I've had YEARS to think on this so I'm all set. It has to be done."

The world around them started to crack and glow making the two look around. "How will I talk to you and train?" Jack said looking back to the fading stallion.

"Oh, that's easy. I'll be in your head mate." The weird stallion laughed while tapping the side of his head. "Can't wait to talk to my old pals, it's been so long." He reminisced as he finally disappeared and the inky floor under Jack gave away, letting him drop.



*Gasp* Came the sudden breath from Jack as he shot upright. "Holy shit I hate falling." He complained. Before he could talk anymore he was pulled into Twilight's chest by the small mare.

"Ohmygoshyou'reokay!" She shouted in a single breath, holding the man tightly till she felt him tap her shoulder.

"mhmhaf hesdt eer." He tried to say muffled.

"What was that?" Twilight asked pulling back slightly so she could see his eyes.

"I can't breath here." The slightly more clear response came from the human as he tried to pull away.

"Oh, I'm sorry it's just you've been out for so long we all were worried you wouldn't...well you know." She said her eye's glancing to his own.

He caught what she meant and chuckled which only made her pout. Before she could ask what was so funny about this he raised his hand. "Watch." He said. He focused on the area and started to work magic into it. Slowly a glowing version replaced the hole. Chuckling, he looked back "Eventually I should be able to replace it fully." He said putting on his best smile to ease her.

All the while Lucky and Brave were back in Jack's mind meeting Scorch again. "Long time no see ay' boys?"  He said stretching out his arms. Lucky stepped toward him with a scowl and socked him across the jaw. "AH, okay yeah I deserve that one." He said then taking another strike from Brave. "That one as well." Lucky went for another one, "You're pushing your luck guys!" He shouted his eyes flaring as the three stared intensely at each other... before bursting into laughter and hugging.

"We missed you Scorch." Brave said letting go first.

"Yeah, where have you been? We knew that body wasn't yours." Lucky added.

Scorch smiled "Well have I got a story for you guys."



Jack was currently being crushed under the weight of multiple sexy bodies. "You know death isn't that bad if this is how I go." Jack thought to himself as Celestia and Spike kissed his cheeks. "Guys I'm fine okay. It's going to take more then that to put me down." 

"Hush you, let me love you." Celestia ordered as everyone laughed. "I was so worried about you." She whined pulling him closer.

Jack chuckled before hearing a crash outside. Getting up and stepping out he saw more diamond dogs causing a mess. "Oh come on. Don't I get a break?" He complained already working on getting dressed. When the group started to voice their concern he replied "Don't worry, I'll be fine."as he closed the door behind him.
> In Need of a Helping Hand (Major editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack swaggered up to the rampaging dogs and shouted in a bad british accent. "Oi, you got a permit for that damage?" The dogs immediately turned their attention to him making him chuckle. "Always works. Listen I need you guys to vacate the town and stop being assholes." He said, waving his arms in a shooing motion.

A dog stepped forward and pointed at him. "You one hurt pack mates." It said with a snarl.

"Ah, so you all know me, good thing to as I was worried I'd have to introduce myself again." Jack teased taking a step forward.

They began laughing at his state when they saw his injuries. "Weak and frail. Easy prey." The one Jack could assume was the leader said. "You die now." He said raising a rusty sword and stepping closer.

"Yo guys, a little help here." Jack mentally called out into his mind. Nothing. "Ah shit whelp time to kick some ass." He said turning to the dogs as one swung its axe at him. Stepping to the side he let it hit the ground before stomping on the handle, breaking it apart. The dog looked to his broken weapon with a dull expression before taking a punch to the side of his jaw knocking him clean out. Jack turned to look at the others approaching and smiled when he saw Vinyl peaking around the edge of her broken window from her shop. "Hey miss music, play me a song!" He shouted over to her.

Vinyl's ears perked up when she heard the request and shrugged. "Ah, what the hell could go wrong." She said carting a speaker to the broken window and plugging in her system. "Let's see here, nah too slow, nope too fast, aha this one!" She proclaimed as she found the fitting tune.

As the song began to play Jack raised an eyebrow before shrugging. "Weird, but guess it works." As the song unfolded Jack rushed forward to the closest target. Grabbing the dogs face he began spinning, after reaching to the wanted speed he let go, flinging the enemy into others taking out all three.

Hey Jackie boy. Sorry it took so long to reply we were working some things out." Lucky said appearing next to him as the other two spirits appeared. What can we do for you?" The rabbit added hopping around the battle.

"Give me an hand with them." Jack said. "Preferably soon." He asked with a slightly crazy grin.

The three looked at each other before fading away. All set to go." He heard Scorch say in his head.

With that statement Jack summoned a ethereal set of armored gloves but they faded away. The dogs stalled to watch what happens before laughing at his failure. Gritting his teeth Jack tried again getting half made before it broke apart once more. "Come on, work damn you!" He growled out in concentration before giving one more try as the armor flew into place with dark red lightning flickering around it. "Finally!" He shouted flexing his hands before looking back to the now slightly scared group of diamond dogs. Splaying out his hands and getting into a slight running stance he looked at them opening his eyes, showing the replacement. "Run." Was all he whispered, taking off like a bullet at the group and delivering a punch into the ground sending them all flying into the air. Scaling up the largest one, he delivered a knee to its face that knocked the helmet clear off. Taking the dog he began spinning as they both fell becoming a twirling missile heading straight for the ground. Dirt and stone flew into the air on impact as Jack bolted out of the cloud of dust for his next prey.

"Kill him! Kill him!" Shouted the leading diamond dog as Jack kicked another dog into the wall of a building leaving a cartoonish dent in it. "Ouch." Was all the dog had to say before it flopped out of the dent and on to the ground. 

Jack took a step toward the leader and raised his armored hand, pointing a finger at him. A powerful looking ball of energy started to collect at the tip of his finger, growing in size. "Two choice for you. Keep fighting and take a bolt through the heart ooorrrr run away and tell everyone you know not to fuck with Ponyville." Jack said a menacing smile splitting his features. A foul smell filled the hair as the leader shit themselves before turning and running away followed by the remaining dogs that weren't unconscious. "Good boy." Jack chuckled, turning back to the castle and walking in. As he passed the door way he couldn't help but stumble. The group quickly rushed to catch him before he fell on to his face. "Sorry, guess I'm not fully up to snuff yet." He said with a laugh, earning some frowns from the girls.

Celestia stepped in front of him and bent down so her face was equal with his. "As the co-ruler of this land I am ordering you to stop getting into fights or trouble until you have fully healed and can better survive your new state." She commanded earning agreements from everyone present. "And don't even think about arguing the point or I'll personally tie you down so you can rest." She added glaring into his eyes.

Jack stared back before smirking. "Fine, though I wouldn't mind you still tying me down and 'helping' me." He teased earning a blush across everyone's faces followed by the sound of a pair of wings going stiff. He laughed inwardly at their expressions. "Still got it." he said to himself as he passed out.



A week passed as Jack rested and recovered from the fight with the brawlers. A guard kept him posted on information involving the book. "Nothing at all?" He asked.

"No sir, we've searched the entire forest from the edge to the castle and can't find any traces. Whoever this was knew what this book could do and has the energy reserves to hide its power. I'm sorry." She said looking down from her chair. She flinched when she heard him get out of his seat and walk towards her but was surprised when Jack gently put a hand on her shoulder.

"Listen, don't take it hard. This will take time but for now I think I have some better orders that would suit you guys much better." Jack said walking to the side and picking up a novel. "What happened here won't be an isolated case. Eventually more of these problems will crop up and cause chaos." He said, flicking through some pages.

The guard pony looked at him before asking. "What would you have us do?" She asked tilting her head.

Jack looked out the window at the partially cloudy sky. "I need you to raise a division of soldiers to combat this problem. Ponies, dragons, whatever you can get to help protect this land and any others around." he said, turning back to the guard. "But I also need you all looking for any leads that we can follow to track this monster down and stop whatever they are planning before it can happen." He added.

Gulping at the intensity in his eyes. "Yes sir." She said, saluting him as she moved out of the room.

Jack turned back to the novel before closing it, noticing the title for the first time. "The Savior of the People." He muttered, reading it. "Huh, must be one of those cheesy stories Spike likes to read." He said with a shrug as he walked out of the library, the door closing with a boom.
> Wishing for Sweets (minor editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack was in pain. "Come on guys, not even a little break?" He whined as another blast of energy was sent his way. Rolling to the side he avoided most of the explosion but the shockwave still sent him into the air. A waiting Lucky swung his foot down to kick Jack back to the ground but the human caught it, with a pivot he swung the rabbit down into the ground making a small crater. Jack condensed magic under his feet to spring board him back to the ground.

"No rest!" Growled Brave, delivering a punch into the mans face. "You got injured from lack of training and strength. You even forced hero mode before your body was ready." He stated, throwing punch after punch at the one armed man.

Jack caught one hand and twisted to bring Brave to a kneel helping him send a knee into the lions jaw. "We've been training nonstop for weeks now. Can't we pause for one day?" He asked.

Scorch stepped forward and jabbed Jack across the chest and legs, numbing his body. "My corrupted side is still out there with a powerful book that raises the dead. We don't have time to have breaks." He explained, delivering more shots to Jack.

Grunting in frustration Jack forced himself past the injuries. "I know but if we keep going at this pace I won't have the energy to do anything." He said finally getting them to back off. "Listen, I know you guys are worried. So am I but if you don't ease up then eventually I'll just collapse guys." He stated, breathing heavily. The Omegas and Scorch finally relented and backed off. "Besides i'm almost fully healed." Jack added with a chuckle, showing the full rang of motion he had.

The others gave either small laughs or smiles as they faded away with the world."Just be safe okay?" Lucky said.



Jack's eye creaked open to see his room full of sunlight. He felt a finger tracing circles over his chest making him look to his side seeing Celestia resting her head on his shoulder. "When did you get here?" He teased, startling the mare.

"You're up." She said, lifting herself up. The sunlight framed her naked body as if she radiated sunlight.

"Well technically she does." Jack thought to himself before focusing back on the moment. "Yes I am. How'd you get into my room and also into my bed without waking me up?" He asked with a raised brow.

The princess softly giggled. "I'm over a thousand years old. You really don't think I picked up a trick or two when it comes to sneaking into my favorite person's room?" She asked back, cutting off any further questions from Jack with a kiss. "Oh, before I forget there's something I need to tell you." She said, perking up.

"That being exactly?" Jack asked running his hands over her long legs. "Man I hit the jackpot." He thought chuckling at the reaction Celestia had when his hands trailed slightly higher.

"Uh...ummm focus celly." She whispered to herself, much to Jack's pleasure. "It's Nightmare night. This is the perfect chance you have to take Luna on a date and maybe finally bring her into the herd." She said, moaning out when his hands reached her breasts.

Jack hummed for a moment before turning both of them around so that he was on top. "Okay." He said putting on a wolfish smile. "But first a little warm-up." He growled into her ear sliding down her form as her eyes crossed.

"Oh sweet me." She moaned out.



The town was alive with ponies putting the final touches across the square for the spookiest night of the year. Luna wandered about lending a hand to any that needed it. Ever since those years ago that Twilight helped her come out of her shell on her first Nightmare night she's always made time to come down and participate in the festivities. "There you are Pipsqueak." She said as the little boy came into view. "How have you been?" She asked bending down to get a better view on the lad.

"Princess Luna!" He shouted in glee as he ran up and hugged the ruler. "It's so nice to see you again." He said pulling back from the hug with a big smile on his face.

"Now, now, what have I told you. Just call me Luna it's what all my friends do." She said as she helped lift the banner the ponies Pipsqueak was helping up into position. With a hum she poured a little more magic into the banner making a starry sky appear in the fabric.

Pipsqueak blushed lightly at being called her friend. "I know it's just my mum has always said to show respect to my superiors." He said looking around sheepishly.

Luna ruffled his hair and spoke "Good lesson but remember you are my friend. Now what is this years costume?" She asked making the boy bounce up and down happily at the chance to talk about his new costume.

"That's right! I'm going to be a Royal Navy man!" He said excitedly. "Ever since that trip my family took to the Naval Academy I've wanted to be more like them." He explained marching in a circle around the princess who covered her mouth to hide her giggling. "I always liked the sea but I realized I won't be good if I'm a pirate so then I started to think. What if instead I become a Navy man then I can help others while sailing the seas." He said stopping in front of her again.

Luna smiled and patted his head. "Well when you are old enough to enroll tell me. I'll be sure to put in a good word for you." She said, turning when she heard footsteps behind her. She could see Jack approaching with that same easy smile on his face that always seemed to say that she was safe. "Hello Jack, helping with the decorations?" She asked, tilting her head slightly.

Jack finished approaching and chuckled at Pipsqueaks face that was in awe of him. "Yep, also here to take you up on that date." He said making the lunar princess blush and stammer. "And who are you big guy?" He added looking down at the small boy.

Pipsqueak did his best to puff out his chest to look bigger. "The name's Pipsqueak future Navy Commander." He said proudly.

Jack laughed at the display and walked up closer to him with his hand stretched out for a shake. "Pleasure to meet you 'Commander' Pipsqueak. I see you are a friend of Luna's and any friend of hers is a friend of mine." He said with a growing smile. "I imagine you already know who I am." Jack added making the colt nodded his head quickly.

"Of course I do. Everypony knows Jack Teller, the hero of Ponyville!" He replied excitedly. "You're just the person I want to be when I grow. I know I can reach my goals if I'm like you!" He shouted.

Jack's smile fell just a little. "Tell you what how about you use me as a goal to surpass instead?" He asked making the princess and colt look at him confused.

"Why better?" Luna asked, echoed by Pip.

Jack looked at them before looking around them. "It is one thing to be like someone. It is a whole other challenge to be better then them." He said as if reading a book. This confused the two even more until Jack shook his head and looked back at the two. "Sorry got lost there. By the way you never said yes or no to the date Luna." He added, his smile returning fully.

Luna stuttered for a moment before being elbowed lightly by Pip who was nodding vigorously. "Um, yes I would very much enjoy that." She managed to get out.

"Great, I'll see you later then for that date." Jack said with a wave, heading deeper into the square to help with arrangements leaving a mess of a ruler and a laughing colt behind.



Night quickly covered the town as the festivities began. Foals and adults alike ran around screaming in fear or joy from the scares. Jack stood in front of his mirror chatting with his head mates. "So can I do it or not?" He asked.

Lucky and Scorch appeared in the mirror on either side of him. "Yes but you'll have to focus a bit." Scorch said scratching his neck as he looked at his own reflection, striking a few poses as well which made the two chuckle.

Lucky spoke up next You've gotten a solid grip on it so it should come fairly easy to you." He said as he watched his former carrier show off.

Jack clapped his hands before putting on a look of determination. "Alright, spooky costume here we come." He said as black fur and white bone began twisting and warping over his form. His mind held the goal in front as his body changed to fit it. Slowly claws extended from his finger tips as a mask of a lion skull appeared edged by blackened fur, even his lost eye filled with a red orb. When the form stopped changing he looked over himself "Huh, not too shabby." He muttered to himself. Satisfied, he threw open the door to find a zombified Spike with a hand raised to knock. On seeing him Spike gave a scream and backed away. "Woo, easy there buddy it's just me." Jack said comfortingly reducing the form around his face to show himself.

Spike clutched at his chest as he took a step closer. "Where the hell did you get that!" He shouted as he began looking over Jack. "I thought you were some monster that was going to eat me." He said after calming down.

Jack chuckled to himself "Oh hun, I'd eat you up any day and I don't even need to look like this." he said leaving a kiss on Spike's lips. "But I got a date with Luna so I'll catch you later." He stated, swatting the dragon's ass as he passed by making the dragon stiffen up.

As he walked out the door he felt the cool autumn air caress his skin. Slipping back on the head piece he began walking through the town delivering frights to any that crossed his path. Reaching where he needed to be the human found the lunar princess playing one of the various games scattered around the area. Sneaking closer he wrapped his arms around her just as she was about to throw making her give out a shriek. Laughing loudly as she turned around fuming he lowered his form to show himself so she wouldn't attack. "Easy, easy, it's just me." Jack said with his arms out to show he wasn't holding anything.

Luna huffed before stepping close into his face. The man craned his neck up as she looked down at him "You made me miss my shot." She growled. Jack took the hint and put down some bits buying another round for her. After she aced the spider tosses she took the large stuffed Nightmare Moon from the working stallion and turned back to Jack. Shadowy mist wrapped around her as turned into what she looked like when she was Nightmare Moon. "Now we may start the date." She commanded.

Jack chuckled as he stuck out an arm for her to link hers through. "Well then lets go. I think a show is going to start soon. We can catch it if we hurry." He said leading the way to the section where dancing was taking place. On arriving they saw Sweetie Belle and Button Mash in matching prisoner outfits warming up. "Sweetie!" Jack shouted as they drew closer. "Are you performing?" He asked when they got close enough.

Sweetie looked up at Jack as he talked making her eyes grow wide. "Jack! You're okay!" She shouted rushing up and hugging him. "I'm sorry we never got to perform even after all the work you did teaching us that song." She muttered into his stomach. 

"Nonsense dear. I should be the one apologizing after all your friends got their mark now weeks before yours." He stated, kneeling down to her level. "But you never answered my question. Are you performing?" He repeated making her smile.

"Yep! We even wrote a song just for the occasion!" She replied happily. "Um... We also wrote one for you to sing if you'd like since you know... you never got the chance." She added glancing to his lost eye.

"Oooohh show me, lets see if I can't make up that promise I made everyone." He said as the two quickly grabbed the couple and dragged them back stage where they found Big Mac and some of the band members practicing. "He said yes!' Sweetie shouted making the small group cheer. Spike came around the bend after them with a guitar wrapped over his shoulder.

"So we get to finally hear that voice ayy?" Spike teased as he passed by.

Luna let out a small giggle. "Well I for one can't wait to hear it." She stated as the two foals ran up with the music sheets.

"Here you go Jack." Button said as he handed the man his papers. 

Looking over them Jack smiled. "Oh I can get down with this for sure.



A few minutes later the stage was set. A crowd had gathered to watch including the elements and Celestia herself. The curtains parted to reveal Sweetie Belle and Button with Mac's band behind them. The music started with a gentle, almost sad tone."A sad song"

The song played across the crowd making them gasp at the voices these kids were able to produce and as the song escalated higher a light shined on Sweetie's neck as her mark appeared. A shield with a music note inside glowed brightly for all to see making the crowd cheer as the final crusader gained her mark. Eventually the song ended and the two held hands and bowed to the crowd but just as the two looked to each other Sweetie Belle quickly leaned in and kissed Buttons cheek making a few ponies in the crowd including his mother give whistles of approval.

Once the curtains drew Jack stepped into his spot with a guitar in his hands as the band members began switching to their needed instruments. "Ya'll ready to put on a show of terror?" He asked the group who all looked at each other with wide grins.

Trixie came around the corner and stood near him. "I believe I can provide that little bit of extra flair for you all." She said confidently as the area changed into a more haunted theme. 

Jack and the others whistled as the curtains parted signaling their time to shine. On seeing Jack on the stage the crowd cheered even louder now that they were getting the chance to hear him play. The drums and guitars began to play as Jack took a breath and leaned into the mic.

You hear the screeching of an owl,
You hear the wind begin to howl,
You know there's zombies on the prowl,
And it's terror time again.
They've got you running though the night,
It's terror time again.
And you just might die of fright,
It's a terrifying time.

The music sent the crowd into a dancing craze as all manners of fright flew into the air from Trixies illusions.

You hear the beating of your heart,
You know the screaming's gonna start,
Here comes the really scary part,
'Cause it's terror time again.
They've got you running through the night,
It's terror time again.
Oh, you just might die of fright,
It's a terrifying time.

All the trees begin to moan,
And the monsters grunt and groan,
Rotting faces full of slime,
Don't you know it's terror time?

And it's terror time again,
They've got you running through the night,
Yes, it's terror time again.
Oh, you just might die of fright,
It's a terrifying time!

As the song ended the crowd began chanting Jack's name who did his best to be humble, bowing to the crowd as the curtains closed. Walking up to Luna he spread his arms. "So how was that?" He asked. He got his reply in the form of her walking up to him and kissing his lips.

"I'd like to show you something special." She said as a portal appeared next to them. Luna stepped through, disappearing into the void leaving Jack to follow.
> Over the Moon (CLOP)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

When Jack stepped through the portal he immediately noticed the lessening of gravity on him. Looking around he noticed the pale barren rock like surface around him. When he looked up his breath left him as he saw earth or rather this worlds version in the sky. "Holy shit I'm on the moon." He muttered to himself before realization kicked in. "HOLY SHIT I'M ON THE MOON!" He shouted before slapping a hand over his mouth to not let any air out.

Luna was lounging on a rock shaped like a chair, laughing at the show in front of her. "You need not worry. When you stepped through a spell was put on you so you could breath up here." She explained easing Jacks nerves.

"Rearery?" He asked through his hand. When she nodded he slowly took his hand away and took a breath finding he could in fact breath. "A little warning next time okay?" He said looking at the costumed princess. "Now can I ask why here?" He asked, walking closer to Luna.

She hummed softly before moving her hand upwards sending a wave of energy across the area revealing a small tower. "Follow me and I'll explain." She said as she got up and started walking into the tower with what Jack could swear was a sway in her hips. On entering they began moving up a set of stairs to the top as Luna talked. "When I was banished to the moon all those centuries ago I had time to think and build as you can see from the tower." She said spreading her arms around to indicate the architecture. "But I also came to terms with Nightmare Moon who still resides in me." She added placing a hand on her chest as a shadowy form floated around her. "You don't have to worry though she's safe now but." She explained stopping as she opened the door to the bedroom. "We've both taken a liking to you." She finished with a husky voice as Jack was levitated and laid on the bed.

Jack was about to sit up when he felt chains wrap around his arms, pinning him down so that only his legs could move. "Thats all nice and all but why here?' He asked again as the princess strutted closer to him. His shirt disappeared and reappeared in her hands as she undid more of her armor, letting it drop to the floor. She reached the foot of the bed in only thigh highs and heels, crawling over the bed while lightly dragging her chest against Jack's. "Oh mommy." Jack whispered nervously making Luna chuckle seductively.

"I can be your mommy." She whispered into his ear, leaning back to straddle his waist. "This place is special as I spent a long time here and felt it would be perfect for me to finally share a lover's embrace for the first time." She explained, trailing her nails across his chest making goosebumps appear.

"Wait, wait, wait." Jack started. "You're a virgin?" He asked looking at her in shock.

Luna looked at him with a slight look of confusion. "Is that a bad thing?" She asked back.

"No just... never been with one is all." Jack said putting on his best smile. "Hope I can satisfy." He teased making the princess laugh.

Reaching down she began unbuttoning his pants. "Oh, I know you can." Was all she said as Jack's growing erection finally sprung out of its cage to rest on his stomach. Luna's eyes sparkled with a hungry glint, lowering herself down so her face was near it she took a moment to stare at it in curiosity. "This isn't like those anatomy books I read." She muttered quietly to herself.

Jack chuckled softly. "Remember, human. Still works just like your stallions do." He coached lightly making her blush as her tongue snaked out to run across the surface gently. Jack's hands clenched slightly at the feeling and began to grunt quietly as she ran across the whole surface. On hearing her lover's groaning she took it as a sign she was doing something right and softly wrapped her lips around the tip of his cock. Sucking on it she began to bob up and down working further and further down till all of it was in her mouth and partially down her throat.

Lifting back up she popped it out of her mouth. "Slightly salty but also sweet." She thought to herself as she worked the out side with her tongue. Her hand wrapped around the base and began stroking it making Jack moan out even louder.

"Luna, I'm getting a bit close here." Jack managed to grunt out as he felt the familiar build up in his body. Luna quickened her pace, sucking even harder till finally Jack couldn't hold it off any longer. With a growl the dam burst shooting thick ropes of cum into her mouth making her cheeks bulge slightly as she struggled to swallow it all down. After he finally stopped twitching in her mouth Luna popped his cock out and slowly stroked it with a blush on her face.

"You're still hard!" She asked in minor shock after noticing his erection didn't shrink. "Good." She purred as she lifted herself up and scooted closer to Jack's face. "Your princess requires attention." She ordered, her soaking pussy only an inch away from his face.

Jack took a moment to catch his breath before leaning forward and licking the edge of her lips. Luna let out a small whimper at the alien sensation. Jack pushed himself further so that his tongue could enter her folds, twisting and licking across her walls making Luna grab the top of his head for support as he worked. Moaning out louder and louder she began to grind herself into his face letting him reach deeper inside. He pulled his face back when he got a wicked thought to then clamp his lips around her clit and hummed making Luna spaz out as an orgasm rocked through her body. Gasping for air she pulled back slightly as her muscles twitched and her body shook.

A dark mist started to pulse from her body as she let out a sultry moan. "Oh, I think it's time to get to the real prize." She purred as she alined her entrance with Jack's cock. Jack tried to rest his hands on her body but found he was still chained up. "Mind undoing this?" He asked, rattling the chains lightly.

Luna growled and lightly smacked his cheek. "No. Tonight you are my play toy." She commanded as she rested a hand on his chest and lowered herself onto him. As his cock slowly pushed into her she let out a slight hiss of discomfort. Stopping for a moment she bobbed up and down on top of him slowly pushing deeper and deeper till finally she hilted inside of him. "Oh fuck this feels good." She moaned out as she began to slowly bounce up and down on top of him, her ass cushioning the blow when their hips connected. Soon she was bouncing as hard as she could with her tongue hanging out from the pleasure filling her body. Jack did his best to match her wild rhythm with his own thrusts upward to meet her falls. "YES FUCK ME!" She started to order as her bouncing mixed with the occasional grind, digging his cock as deep as she could into her needy cunt. Jack grunted and moaned out from the rough treatment she was putting him through till finally he gave a cry out as he came a second time into her womb. Luna gave her own cry of pleasure as the sudden fill sent her over the edge and their juices mixed together.

Collapsing onto his chest Jack felt the chains fade away. Wrapping his arms around the heaving mare he began to slowly open and close his finger tips between her wings making her moan out from the soft touch. Soon both felt the grips of sleep creep over their minds and they both happily let it take them as they held their new lover.
> Where Monsters Lie (minor editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack woke up slowly, feeling a set of arms wrapped around him. Looking to his chest he saw Luna lightly snoring, her sides rising with each breath she took. When more of his senses came to him Jack saw that they were in his room. "Huh, well at least now I don't have to worry about getting off the moon." He muttered to himself. Nudging the sleeping princess slightly he began to call her name, trying to wake her up. "Luna. Oh Luna." He said.

The princess began to stirred slightly. "Wha huh?" She asked, her eyes fluttering open. When she saw Jack a small squeak left her as she ducked down into the crook of his shoulder. It didn't do much since her larger body was smothering his slightly. "Swerry." Came her muffled voice.

"What was that love?" He teased, making the princess hide even more. Giving a gentle laugh Jack started to scratch behind one of her ears and once she started leaning into his hand, pulled it back slowly so she would follow till she was fully out of hiding. "How'd you sleep?" He asked. A rapid set of knocks hit his door making the pair look to it. With a sigh he gently pushed luna up so that he could walk towards the door. Luna took the sheets of the bed to cover her naked form as Jack opened the door to reveal a slightly winded Fluttershy. "What's going on?" He ordered when he saw the look of fear on her face.

Fluttershy looked up from her slightly bent position at him "Crusaders...night...woods...monsters." Came the exhausted reply though dogged breaths. She noticed Luna on his bed causing a blush to form on her face as she realized what she had interrupted but was snapped out of it when Jack took his hand to turn her face towards him again.

"Where." Was all he said, sending a shiver through her body from how powerful the word sounded from him. His eye's bore into hers.

"Everfree." She whispered out. She barely noticed him pass her as a glowing set of makeshift armor appeared around him. Looking back into the room she saw Luna still sitting there with a small blush on her face. "Umm, I'll just follow him.." She said, trailing off at the end as Luna nodded slightly and closed the door with her magic.



Jack stood at the forest entrance listening to the various sounds emanating from the haunting place. "So you'll be coming with me huh?" Jack said, not taking his eye's off the woods as Fluttershy landed next to him.

"Um yes... if you don't mind that is." She confirmed in her usual shy way. "I can probably see if some of the critters saw the girls or lead you to someone who can." She added, doing her best to seem brave but the shaking in her body ruined that.

Jack looked her up and down before stepping towards her. "Let me make this clear. I know you care about all animals but if there is a threat then I need to put it down so that we can survive. Promise me you won't jump in the way or think less of me if I do." He asked, his face laying neutral.

Fluttershy look up at him and stopped shaking in fear for a moment. "I have had to put down creatures before." She stated, making the man raise an eyebrow at her. "My job is to take care of creatures yes but well... sometimes the best way to help them is to put them down." She explained as she pulled out her element necklace. It started to glow and change into a bow with a butterfly on either end. "Each bearer has the power to make a weapon if the situation can't be solved peacefully. I've only had to use it a few times but I do know how to fight." She added with confidence.

Jack looked at her slightly surprised before turning back to the forest and walking into it, followed closely by Fluttershy. The two stopped every now and then so that Fluttershy could speak with the animals. "Any luck?" He finally asked after the ninth stop.

She frowned and shook her head. "They have seen them but don't know where they went specifically. I think it's time you met one of our friends." She said, changing her direction to go where they needed too. The walk was filled with silence until Fluttershy asked "Do you fear anything?"

"Huh? Why do you ask that?" He asked back confused.

Fluttershy looked back at the man through her mane. "Well it's just... you always rush forward to help others and don't seem to ever stop to think about yourself. You must be very brave much more then I could ever be." She finally answered after a long pause.

Jack stopped in his tracks and caught her hand. "Do you know the definition of bravery?" He asked. When she looked at him, shaking her head he continued. "Its to show courage. But another way you can define the word... is its to have the strength to be afraid and still push onwards. I am not scared by things, for example this whole world around us, it doesn't scare me... it terrifies me." He said calmly. He let go of her hand and moved past her following the trail as Fluttershy stood there, mulling over what he had said before jumping in shock when she realized he wasn't slowing down for her.

A silence fell over them once more as they continued to their new destination. Shy's mind was buzzing over the words Jack had told her. "Could I be brave too?" She thought to herself.

Finally the tree line thinned enough to form a small open area where a hut covered in decoration that reminded him of tribes in Africa. Stepping to the door Fluttershy gave three soft knocks. "Zecora, it's me Fluttershy. We need your help." She called out.

The door swung open ominously to show a darkened room that looked like a hurricane had ripped through it. Bottles of different concoctions oozed and dripped to the floor, a heavy black cauldron was tipped over devoid of anything. Jack stepped past Shy to look over the room, examining for any hints as to what happened. Slowly working his way around the room in a methodical manner so as not to miss anything he finally found something that could help them.

A single boar tusk.

Handing the tusk to Fluttershy, she began looking it over slowly gaining a more worried expression. "Oh no..." She whispered out when she seemed certain of what it was.

"You know what it is?" Jack asked already looking for tracks near the door.

"Its a wereboar." Fluttershy said, rushing past the crouched man and pulling her bow string back and pointing to the sky. Letting the arrow fly it burst into a sparkling explosion that drifted down and formed an after image of the creature with a mare with striped fur over it's shoulder. "Follow that image." Ordered Fluttershy, all the worry gone from her, now replaced with determination when she realized how dire of a situation this was.

The two booked it to keep up with the large image as Jack questioned the mare. "What is it, what can it do, what are weaknesses?" He questioned as they ran.

Fluttershy to his surprise wasn't even breathing hard as she answered him while running. "Wereboar's are old species infected with an even older illness of lycanthropy, depending on how old this one is they can do large amounts of damage and have incredibly thick hides, they have poor eyesight and sense of smell, fire is usually the safest bet but you run the risk of setting the area on fire. Other way's are just lots of blunt force trauma or a really sharp weapon that can cut through all the fur and muscle."

Jack noticed the image ahead of them slowing as a cave came into view. Slowing them both down he crouched with Fluttershy, surveying the area. "Think you can help me kill it?" He asked, looking at the mare.

She gulped down her fear as a wave of calm she wore during her operations to put down creatures that needed to be washed over her. "My arrows should be able to kill it but I'll need to hit the same spot a few times." She stated. The two looked to each other before stepping out of the brush in unison and walking towards the cave entrance. Grunts and snorts could be heard echoing from the cave as the two got closer. Stepping inside slowly so their eyes could adjust they first noticed the rancid smell of decaying meat and fecal matter. Next, once they could see properly, was the large hunched over form of what they both could easily tell was the monster they were looking for. It was busy ripping chunks out of a carcass, the thing was so mangled and twisted that neither could tell what it was. The last thing for them to notice was the huddled up forms of three specific fillies over the limp form of the mare they had seen in the image.

Jack tapped Fluttershy on the shoulder to get her attention. Pointing to the side of the beast where there was more shadows to hide in then pointing to himself and making a walking figure with his hand towards that direction. Shy understood and moved to the opposite side as the pair got ready to attack. Once both were in place Jack gave a final nod to his partner before charging forward, making his fist charged with electricity as he delivered a powerful right hook into the monsters jaw, sending a shockwave blasting around the cave. The monster roared as Jack sprang back, narrowly missing the wereboar's retaliation swing. 

The girls looked up at the sudden change of noise to see Jack fighting their captor. "Jack!" They yelled in surprise at his sudden appearance, shock and hope springing to their faces.

Fluttershy took the opening to let loose three quick shots of magic arrows into the side of the monster, burning the fur slightly though not breaking through yet. A foul odor filled the air as unwashed and mangled fur burned. "Girls! How's Zecora?" Fluttershy shouted to them from her position as she readied more shots when the monster turned to her.

Applebloom was the first to break out of her shock and replied "She's still breathing but she's got a nasty bump on her head!"

The monster raised itself up from it's squatting position gaining three more feet on it's already large stature. It gave a roar that shook the ground, stomping towards her. She let fly her shots, each targeting a possible weak point but only enraging the beast more. As it got closer the wereboar raised a fist to bring down on Fluttershy only to have it pulled further back as Jack leaped onto it's shoulders and pulled with all his might. "No hitting the pretty lady." He ordered as the monster tried to pull out of his grip. Jack wrapped his legs around the monsters neck to hold on as it began to buck and jostle, trying to throw the man off. Finally it bent itself forward and charged the cave wall. Having no time to react Jack was slammed into the wall with a almost sickening crunch, dropping to the ground limp.

"Oh no." Whispered Fluttershy as she shot arrow after arrow into the monster, trying to get a shot that would injure it at least. It bent down to charge again this time at Shy who had moved to put herself between it and the girls. before it could move forward a rock hit the back of it's head. Whipping around everypony saw Jack bracing against the cave wall with blood streaming down his head.

"Oi fucknut! I never said we were done!" He shouted at the monster as he pushed off the wall to stand in the middle of the cave. The monster scrapped it's hoof, getting ready for a charge. Jack put his hands to his side getting in a batting position as the beast charged. Pushing magic into a random form he swung once the monster was close enough filling the area with a meaty 'WHACK!' stopping the charge. Looking to the weapon he made in his hands that had knocked the beast to the side slightly he saw a three foot long dildo with a baseball handle in his hands. The word 'Penetrator' bedazzled across the side. Jack's face scrunched up at the weird weapon. "Huh, well like I guess it works." He mumbled confused but was quickly punched out of the cave by the now thoroughly pissed off wereboar. Bouncing off the ground multiple times with a swear word following each connection with the ground he slid to a stop, the sun blazing down into his eyes. Three different figures looked down at him with various levels of smugness on their faces. 

"Need some help?" Asked Lucky with a giggle.

Jack scowled at the three's laughter. "Oh so nooooow you cunts show up." He complained to them. Once helped up he looked at them in annoyance, the ground shaking as the beast stomped outside, forgetting about his prisoners in the cave.

Brave hummed as he looked over Jack. Well we thought you might like to learn your next form." He said calmly.

Perking up at that tidbit of information he looked at the three with a different perspective. "You mean monster form?" He asked as the wereboar got closer.

Yep, I will be giving you a boost so you don't burn out from it like you did hero form. This time you'll be stable." Scorch stated as he stepped back into Jack along with the others. Just as the beast loomed over Jack and swung both fists down to crush him Scorch clapped his hands together. "Show time!" He shouted in excitement as all the blood pouring from Jack's wounds turned an inky black. A layer of it surrounded Jack's twisting form creating a shell that made the monsters fists bounce off of him.

A insane smile split across Jack's features as his mouth stretched and cut open to reveal piercing sharp teeth, each one sharper then a razor. Inky black liquid began dripping from his body, taking the form of scythe like weapons. A deep demonic chuckle began building in his chest as he turned to the monster. Giving his own monstrous screech Jack slammed a fist into the gut of the beast making it bend over in pain. Slicing across the monsters face and body, shredding through the layers of matted fur and flesh. Soon blood began seeping from the wounds as the monster turned to run away but didn't get far as Jack shot a tendril out of his hand that wrapped around the beast's ankles. With a effortless heave the tendril whipped the enemy into the air and a simple snap of Jack's wrist sent it flying down into the ground. The monster began crawling out of the small crater it's body had made only for it to see Jack's twisted form standing over it. The smile on Jack's face grew as a hand went to either side of the monsters shoulders and lifted it up. "S̶̩͋̋n̸͚̙̝̈́̆̆̑͆ḁ̸̜̓̀͜c̷̛̤̪͍̗͓̳̏̏̇̀̚ḱ̶̪̘͓̬͇̂͊̀͗́̇̚ ̴̢̥̪͈̝̋͌̄̌͐̊̓͊t̴̢̛͓̖͔̙̯̣̒̎̽͊͝i̵̟̞̜̔̃̂̉̕m̴̲͍͙̞̬̗͈͊̍͑̍̽ȩ̴̡̡͖̬͔͉̖̓́̓̓ " Came the distorted voice as his jaw unhinged itself and he clamped down on the neck of the monster, making blood squirt and pulse out. The beast twisted and tried to fight but the broken body soon fell limp as it's blood was drained.

Fluttershy had just gotten to the cave entrance to see Jack change and then kill the wereboar. She put a hand to her mouth at the sudden kill and looked away. When she looked back Jack was standing in front of her back in his normal form with blood soaked across his body. She wanted to ask what she had just seen but his stare quickly told her now wasn't the time to ask. "W...we need t-to get ZecoraAaaA out of here." Fluttershy finally shook out once the fear started to subside.

Jack passed her silently, wiping off as much of the pig blood on him before hunching over Zecora's still limp body. The girls were too worried about Jack to ask about the fight so they silently followed him out of the cave towards Fluttershy's cottage. Once back to safety the girls went to their respective homes to ease the worry of their families. He laid the still unconscious mare down on the couch for Fluttershy to look over, resigning himself to an armchair in the corner waiting to be called if needed. 

"What was that?" Shy finally asked once she worked up the courage after looking over and bandaging up Zecora. She had moved over to look over Jack next, working to cover any cuts or bruises.

He gave out a large sigh. "You know how I have that scary animal like form right?" He questioned. When she nodded he continued on "That one you saw is called monster form, it's stronger then beast and my regular human form but of course anything called monster form is going to be scary and intense." He explained, looking away from the mare as she wrapped up a cut on his arm. "I'm sorry if I scared you..." He added weakly, worried he'd just scared away a friend.

Fluttershy was silent other then a light humming before resting a hand on the finished bandage. "Don't be. It's like you said bravery is being afraid of something but still having the strength pushing onwards." She replied gently with a kind smile when Jack looked at her in mild shock. She kissed his cheek softly making the man blush. "Besides, if you still feel you have to make up for it I believe I might be next in line for that date." She teased with a wave of courage passing through her. A small giggle escaped her at his blush. "But for now rest. You're probably going to need all the energy you can once the other girls hear what you did to save the crusaders." She added sweetly, taking a seat near Zecora to watch over her.
> Morning Regrets (Minor editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Damp darkness surrounded Jack as he looked around. A dim moon hanging above him, barely shining any light on the world. The sound of waves gently hitting the beach, reflecting the light from the moon back to the sky. He looked around spotting a cobblestone path following the beach line. His body moved to it on it's own while his muddied mind struggled to make heads or tails of what was going on. Moving down the path, the world seemed to dim with every step till he reached a cliff overlooking the sea. "Where am I?" He asked himself as his mind cleared.

"You're in limbo my boy." Came a voice in front of him making Jack jump in shock. The god that had sent Jack to Equestria materialized in front of him slowly from his head downwards. "Miss me?" The masked god asked, spreading his arms out like a showman.

"What are you doing here?" Asked Jack now even more confused. "And what did you mean limbo? I didn't die again did I?" He asked the god.

Giving a short chuckle the god shook his head. "No Mr.Teller you have not died. This is the only place I could talk to you and catch up." He explained, walking around the cliff edge. "See, I wanted to check up on you. Your story has become very popular among the other gods. Even a few of the downers are wondering what will happen next." He said with a laugh.

"Wait I thought only you read the worlds?" Jack asked, confused at the words his patron god of sorts said.

"Nah, nah, nah man. You got it all wrong. I help craft the worlds that the other gods can work on. Think of all the book worlds you saw as a library of sorts. I keep it organized for others to see easier and this world your in is a hot topic right now." The god replied with a chuckle.

Jack stood there for a moment before shrugging. "Ok then, also question what even is your name?" He asked the strange god.

"Not important." Waved the god as the world shifted and warped into a far more sinister one. "What is important is how you handle this new chapter of your life." He spoke, fading away as the moon turned crimson red and howls of beasts filled the air.

Turning around Jack could see a phantom of the wereboar he had killed standing in front of him. The beast let out a puff of nauseating breath before charging him. "Ah fuck me." He groaned as the monster slammed into him sending both flying off the edge of the cliff. As Jack fell his mind was racing. "Fuck, fuck,fuck, fuck, fuck! Okay got it!" He shouted to himself, twisting his body to be on top of the beast and using it to break the water that was quickly approaching first. Taking a deep breath he waited for impact but it never came. Opening his eyes showed he was falling in a hole, above him was the water that had widened into his new spot. A light began to grow below him until suddenly the monster turned to ash around him, stinging his eyes. Once he reached the light he was thrown through a hole that appeared out of a tree onto a grassy meadow. "What they hell is going on!" He shouted, slowly getting pissed off.

"Fresh meat." Came the familiar rasp of a diamond dog from somewhere to his right. Sitting up showed about five of them converging on his spot making him groan.

Standing quickly he dodged a swing on an axe that was aimed for his stomach, tearing his shirt. Ducking and weaving around the attacks he tried to fight back but every time his fists should have connected a hole would appear on the targets body making him miss. "Ah this is straight up bullshit!" He complained as nicks and cuts started to accumulate across his form. Eventually a massive hammer swung out of nowhere, launching him into a tree. Opening his eyes showed the meadow now on fire with the golems he had fought stomping towards him. "What is this a haunting of past kills?" He said to no one, getting up and running away from the now charging monster brothers, already learning he couldn't hurt these images.

Hoping to get away he ran for the forest, praying they wouldn't catch up to him. The monsters roar that felt like it was on his back made him run faster and good thing he did as an explosion of ground and dirt flew past him. Nearing the burning forest edge he ran as hard as his legs would let him till bursting through with embers and burning bits flying out with him he fell down a hill, rolling head over heels with a special word for every time he hit the ground. "Ah! Shit! Fuck! Piss! Ass! Cunt! Bitch!" Skidding to a halt he slid on his face, getting a mouth full of grass. A deep growl slowly filled the air as he got to his hands and knees. Giving a sigh he looked up already knowing what was next. "Hey little puddy cat." He teased already thoroughly annoyed beyond belief. Standing in front of him was the manticore he had killed his first day in Equestia. The monster had a vicious snarl, baring it's long fangs at him. It began to circle him slowly edging for his back so Jack had to keep rotating while trying to stand up. Jack tried to charge magic into a mask that covered his mouth with a speaker. "If I can't hurt you maybe I can blast you away?" He thought to himself as one of his favorite games before coming to Equestia popped into his mind. 

As the beast lunged for him he took a deep breath and shouted. "FUS RO DAH!" The blast sent the monster flying into the burning forest giving Jack time to run further down the path, another portal opening in front of him. With nothing to lose he jumped through it.



Fluttershy had stayed up late to watch over her two injured friends before heading off to bed when they appeared stable. Waking up to the chirping of birds she jumped out of bed to get ready quickly. Once she finished letting the warm shower water wash the grim from yesterday off her fur she got dressed and headed back down to find Zecora awake and reading a book. "Oh, good morning Zecora. I'm glad your awake." Fluttershy said. Most other's wouldn't know it but she felt relaxed around Zecora more then the other's as they shared an interest in wildlife and plants.

"Wake early I do every day, so that even injured I'll still have time to play." The exotic mare rhymed in her usual way. She laid down the book onto her lap before pointing a bandaged hand at Jack. "Stranger then most he seems, Do tell me does he dream?" She asked making Fluttershy tilt her head in confusion.

"I would think so." She said as Jack began to toss and turn suddenly. "Has he been doing this since you woke up?" She asked, rushing over to check on him, finding he had a fever like nothing she'd seen. "Oh my, he's burning up." She stated, worried for him.

Zecora nodded her head while humming. "Blood of beast he did consume, nightmares filled his head will hold, Till the end there is nothing to do, pain and and hurt will be his doom." She spoke making Fluttershy jump in shock.

"Is there anything we can do?" She shouted, uncharacteristically loud even for her.

Zecora shook her head but put on a small smile of comfort as she spoke gently. "Though the blood makes one's fears turn real, strong wills can survive and maybe find it thrill." These words helped calm Fluttershy.

"So we just have to wait this out?" She asked and on seeing Zecora nod, sat down next to Jack and try to ease his body.



Jack now was floating above what he could only imagine was Tera, the earth of this world. "Huh, would think it would be colder." He muttered to himself. Looking around he could see the moon off to his right, the sun behind his left side. He tried moving around but found he couldn't really do much but tumble in place from the lack of gravity. "Well this is pretty shit." he grumbled, folding his arms. "But at least it's better then getting my ass handed to me from the ghosts of my past in this world." He added.

"I don't know I rather like the view." Came a voice behind him. When Jack didn't turn around it let out a click like a tongue. "Oops my bad. Forgot you can't move." The voice said, a figure floating into view.  The figure was male if Jack had to guess from the voice. It looked like a suit of armor that was a mix of rabbit legs like Lucky's but broad shoulders and arms topped with pauldrons of lions. A fur neck piece added to the illusion of large chest topped with a helmet that looked like it had a mane of metal with rabbit ears and face with a smile on it. One of the glowing eyes he could see through the eye slots shined red while the other was white. The armor seemed worn as if it had taken more damage. "Hi short time no see!" the armor said excitedly.

Jack was even more confused then before. "Um, have we met before?" He asked with a scrutinizing gaze.

The armor smacked the top of it's head making a clanging sound. "That's right, you shifted into my form and blacked out. Whoopsie daisy, I'm you or rather I'm your hero form." The suit explained. "You are one more form closer to using me and not dying buuuuut you made the mistake of drinking some pretty nasty stuff so I have to step in to get it out of you." It explained, floating closer to Jack.

"Woo hold on how exactly are you going to do that?" He questioned, trying to lean away.

"Easy, I'm going to make you vomit a shit ton." The armor replied happily before socking Jack in the stomach. The world around them blew away as Jack awoke with a start.

"Jack!" Shouted Fluttershy about to rush over to him but on seeing how green he was turning grabbed a bucket first and held it out to him. As the human puked up the contents of his stomach she rubbed his back and spoke words of encouragement, ignoring the disgusting sounds coming from the man. After a few minutes of vomiting he quieted down. "Feeling better?" She asked softly.

"Remind me never to bite a wereboar or anything that has were in it's name again." Jack groaned, slumping back into his seat with the bucket still in his lap. He looked around noticing Zecora and Fluttershy staring at him. The shy mare's hair was done up in a bun with a few locks framing her face no longer hiding it. In his still slightly sick haze he couldn't help comment. "You look cute with your hair up like that." He muttered loud enough for both mares to hear him.

A blush burst onto Fluttershy's face as she tried to stutter out a reply but finding the words impossible to get out, settling to just turn away while her hands fiddled with her hair and face.

Zecora gave a small chuckle before standing up, catching Jack's attention. His eye's widened on seeing what she was wearing or rather lack of. A loin cloth wrapped around strong, thick hips and legs while a stretch of fabric was across her chest holding her large breasts in place. Her voice made him snap out of it and look to her face. "Though I enjoy the attention and wish I could continue to watch the show, my home is a wreck and there are new plants to grow." She stated turning away with a slight shake of her ass making both Fluttershy and Jack blush as she swayed out the door.

Jack after shaking his head clear tried to stand up but found his legs bandaged and not agreeing with the shift in weight. "Ah fuck here we go." He complained, falling to the ground. As it approached he suddenly stopped, seeing Fluttershy had grabbed a hold of him. Setting him back into the seat he sighed. "Thanks for catching me..." He trailed off on seeing her intense stare.

"You aren't going anywhere in your condition mister." She ordered, standing and walking to the kitchen. Placing a kettle on the stove she began to make tea while keeping an eye on Jack who couldn't help but laugh at the situation. "What's so funny?" She questioned after bringing a cup of tea to him, lifting it to his lips after blowing on it.

Once he took the sip he leaned back. "It's nothing just... any time me or my siblings got hurt my mom would help us get better even going so far as to help write our homework if we couldn't use our hands or arms." He replied with a sad laugh as a far away look entered his eyes. "You know, I don't regret coming here and taking the second chance at life but... There's no one left back where I'm from to help clean up the house or my families graves." He said, a deep sadness in his voice.

"If you had the chance to go back to your old world would you take it?" Fluttershy asked softly, looking away when he turned those saddened eyes on her. "That is if you want to tell me." She added quickly, wishing her hair was down to hide behind it.

"If I'm being honest maybe but then I'd have to leave what I have here and frankly I didn't have friends back then or the ones I did left or died. So yes it's sad I left them unkempt but I think they all are more happy that I made something bigger with my life then before." He spoke slowly, taking Fluttershy's hand and squeezing it. "Sometimes you have to take a risk to gain something better even if you regret the choices you made in the past you have to know they helped lead you to this point." He added, closing his eye's once more and drifting into a more gentle sleep.

Fluttershy looked to the hand he had held, opening and closing it a few times before resting it on her chest feeling her heart beating fast. "I think I know what you mean." She whispered, taking the tea cups to the sink to wash them then moving on to feed the animals around them.
> Repaid in Full (minor editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fluttershy woke up with a start to the pounding of fists on her door. Getting slippers on and throwing a robe over her body she shuffled down the stairs to open it. Glancing to the side she saw Jack still asleep on the chair, his body wrapped in the bandages. "I'll need to replace them." She thought to herself as her hand twisted the handle to the door. Opening it revealed the three mares she knew would be coming. "Hello Applejack, hello Rainbow Dash, and hello Rarity." She said to each one, giving a small nod and smile. "Don't you think it's a little rude to be banging on peoples doors?" She teased gently with more confidents in her voice making the three look at her with varied expressions.

"Ah'll question you on the sudden confidents later but first wheres the big guy." Applejack stated, trying to move past her friend. "We need to talk to him." She added but Fluttershy put a hand out to stop her.

"First let me say girls, I know why you are here but he is still hurt and is resting so please don't be too loud or rough on him okay?" She asked of the three making Rainbow scoff.

"What, you think we can't be gentle? Maybe Applejack here can't but I know what I'm doing." Rainbow replied sarcastically, squeezing past the taller mare. "Holy shit!" She shouted when she saw how wrapped up Jack was. "He looks almost as bad as when those two monsters showed up." She said, moving up close to look over him and his injuries. He let out a little mumble which made her lean back, clamping a hand over her mouth but once he settled back down she dropped it. Looking back she could see the others looking at her disapprovingly. "Ah heheheee... sorry." She sheepishly said, scratching the back of her head.

Once the others stepped inside Rarity asked for the story behind his injuries and how they learned of the girls location. Once Fluttershy told them everything she let out a hum, walking over to Jack's resting form and brushing a bit of hair out of his faces. "He really is a gentlecolt isn't he?" She mussed, stroking his cheek with a thumb.

The others gave agreements while moving to the kitchen to sit and wait for him to wake up. Rarity stayed by his side till Fluttershy approached her again. "Excuse me Rarity but I need to change his wrappings again." She explained, lowering the medkit off the shelf and removing the necessary supplies.

"Let me help you darling. I know a thing or two about first aid." Rarity replied, slowly removing the bandages around his legs. Levitating a roll over she wrapped them back up, taking care not to be to tight on his wounds while humming a tune softly to herself. After a few more minutes the two had fully replaced all the old ones with fresh, clean bandages. "There, that should help him." Rarity said, whipping her hands together.

They moved back to where Rainbow and Applejack were having a hushed whisper. "So any ideas yet?" Rainbow asked, leaning close to the farmer.

Applejack shook her head. "I can't think ah nothin' yet." She replied sadly.

"Are you two talking about the dates?" Fluttershy asked, taking a seat next to AJ.

Rarity perked up. "Oh my, isn't it your turn next Fluttershy to woo the man?" She added, making the mare blush and hide in her hair. "Don't tell me you haven't thought of anything yet!" She shouted in a hushed tone. "Pinkie and I already have worked out something together."

As Fluttershy opened her mouth to reply a groan could be heard from the living room. "Ugh my fucking body." Came Jack's voice, the creak of a chair following it. Soon footsteps could be heard walking towards the kitchen making the mares shush each other. "Hey Shy do you have any medicine to help with soreness?" He asked, stretching but folding inwards when the pain grew.

"I'll get it." Rainbow said, standing up and moving for the stairs. "Same place as last time?" Called Dash as she took a few steps up.

"Oh yes the usual spot and as for you Jack you shouldn't be moving around so much." Fluttershy spoke, taking Applejacks help in moving the man into a seat. Rarity was already pouring out a cup of tea for the man humming to herself. "The girls came by to thank you for saving their sisters." She added.

Jack gave a soft chuckle while Rainbow Dash came down and handed him a small pink pill. "Girls you don't need to thank me for doing something I already do." He tried to say but was quickly shut down by AJ leaning close into his face with a stern look.

"Ya saved our loved ones and Zecora as well. Ya let yourself take all the hurting just so Shy wouldn't. Jack Teller, you will get a reward even if you don't want one." She ordered, pulling him into a kiss while the others watched with varied expressions. 

Rainbow off to the side was grumbling that she had her idea stolen. Rarity was a giggling mess from the new gossip she now had and Fluttershy was a blushing mess. Once Applejack pulled away from the kiss, Jack was breathing heavily. "Holy shit that was really hot." He mumbled out, cross-eyed.

"There's more where that came from but first I believe it is time you and Shy here went on your date." Applejack said with a smirk, inside though she was giggling like a school filly who just had her first kiss. "He really is a good kisser." She thought, standing up. Pulling the two by the arms though being more gentle on Jack's, she moved them out of the house while calling for the other two. "Get a picnic ready for the two love birds!"

Rarity and Rainbow looked to each other and shrugged. "I'll get the food ready." Rarity said.

"I'll get the blanket and basket." Rainbow confirmed, heading upstairs again but stopping when she got into Fluttershy's room and noticing a sketchbook and pencil. Flipping through it she saw animal drawings in the earlier pages but as the went on slowly more and more sketches of Jack filled them. A few even made her blush with how he was dressed or rather undressed. "Wow, I knew she could draw but I didn't know it was this good." She muttered to herself. Then a bulb went off and a cheshire grin spread across her face. "Oh Dashie that's a good one." She said, pocketing the book and pencil while going back on the search for the picnic items.



Applejack had lead the pair to the park, letting go once they were under a tree on a small hill with a view of the land. "This oughta do it." She stated confidently, resting her hands on her hips. "Ah know Shy here will be to scared to ask ya out officially and will pull some medical mumbo jumbo to stall for time." The southern bell said.

Jack gave a small laugh while taking a seat by the tree. "Well I do believe you are next after all Fluttershy. Might as well enjoy it." He said with a laugh as her face took on a crimson blush. A gentle hum started to fill the air causing the two mares to look around before realizing it was coming from Jack. Soon quiet words followed that they couldn't quiet make out.

All this stopped when Rainbow and Rarity ran up the hill with a picnic basket. "Terribly sorry it took us so long." Apologized Rarity. Setting down the basket she started to unpack it, handing the blanket to a now risen Jack who spread it across the ground. Once everything was set Aj and Rarity said their goodbyes, heading down while Rainbow stood for a moment a small smirk on her face.

"What is it Rainbow Dash?" Asked Fluttershy gently.

Rainbow let a devilish smile cross her face as she said "Catch." Throwing the notebook to Jack and taking off in a boost of speed.

Jack caught the book, looking it over as Fluttershy's eyes widened in silent horror on recognizing it. Just as she went to reach out and say stop he opened the book to a random page. "Well that's a first for me." Jack said, his eyes going over the details of the page. It was him sketched out reclining on a sofa with only a small blanket draped over his waist, the fabric looked like it was just about to fall off and show something private underneath. "Did you draw this?" Jack questioned, turning the page to see more.

Fluttershy was a blushing mess, mumbling nonsense as she tried to process the man she liked was looking through her notebook at all the things she drew, INCLUDING HIM! "Oh sweet Celestia he's going to hate me!" Her mind screamed but her body reacted first. "Yes." Came the small and slightly scared reply. Her mind froze on realizing what she had just done, waiting for punishment now.

Jack was silent as he continued to look over the drawings only a small hum escaping him every now and then till finally he closed the book and handed it to her. "You are an amazing artist. Much better then some of the ones I saw at that art gallery I went to with Celestia." He complimented.

This only caused her mind to break even further. She had been ready to get yelled at and called names but here he was saying he liked them."Wha huh?" She got out.

"They look great! Don't know how long you've been drawing art for but you have great talent in it. You even got the little scars on my body right." He complimented again.

Slowly she uncurled and took back the notebook. "You actually like them? You don't think it's weird I have drawings of you?" She questioned, her mind struggling to wrap around this whole situation.

Jack gave a small laugh and gently took her hand making the blush flare back up. "They look great. Honestly I find it super flattering that you even thought about using me as an example for your drawings. You know since we are on a date do you want to try drawing with a live model?" He teased lightly.

Fluttershy sputtered for a few moments, her fingers poking each other softly. Hiding behind her hair Jack could only see a single eye darting back and forth while looking at the ground. "You wouldn't mind?" Came the softly spoken question.

He gave a soft smile and leaned back against the tree. "How's this for a start?" He asked, looking over the field. Fluttershy didn't move for a while until finally she reached into a pocket near her breasts, producing a pencil while opening a empty page on the book. Soon the sounds of paper and pencil meeting filled the air as she drew. Jack hummed a small toon while she worked helping her relax even more with his voice. Eventually she stopped drawing and turned the book over to him so that he could see. It was an exact copy of how he looked, resting against the tree. The bandages that were on him weren't in the picture, instead he looked as if he had never gotten injured. Even his eye was back where it used to be. "This is fantastic Shy! You are seriously skilled." He said with joy.

Fluttershy blushed before an idea popped into her head making the glow on her cheeks grow. "Um, could I ask a favor?" She said quietly.

"Of course dear. Anything at all." He replied happily.

"Could you maybe um... come closer?" She asked. Jack raised a brow and leaned forward. She gestured for him to get closer, he scooted forward. She made the motion once more. Now he was practically touching her and just as he opened his mouth to speak she darted forward, pecking his lips with her own and pulled back her face turning from soft yellow to deep red.

Jack sat there stunned, blinking slowly before reaching across and picking her up and resting her on his lap with a squeak. He started to kiss her cheeks and jaw making her slowly melt while his hands went to her shoulders and back, massaging them gently to work out the knots in them. Over time she went limp from the feelings across her body that when he stop she gave a cute whine of protest. "Sneaky little girl. You know if you want a kiss you only have to ask right." He said making her hide her face in the crook of his shoulder. A muffled reply came from her that he couldn't hear. "I'm sorry what was that?" He questioned.

"Could I... kiss you?" She asked, pulling away from his shoulder a little. She looked up on feeling him shift only to have his lips meet her own. Giving a small moan in satisfaction the two held each other close. His arms wrapped firmly around her body while her hands gripped his shirt tightly. After a minute the two pulled away, breathing heavily. "Bedroom?" She asked, her chest rising and falling quickly.

"Bedroom." His deep voice confirmed, standing quickly to throw everything into the untouched basket, grabbing Fluttershy over his shoulder and took off back for her house.
> Repaid in Full (CLOP)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack practically kicked down the door to the cottage, storming inside and with a flick of his arm tossed the basket off to the side onto the couch. On his way up the stairs Fluttershy called out to all the animals. "Behave and don't come up please." She said, nervousness and excitement in her voice. Once in her bedroom Jack laid her down on the bed, his hands roaming over her body, massaging any points that got a moan out of her. Straightening back up he removed his shirt and tossed it to the side while Shy sat up to run her hands over his chest and waist. Her fingers looped over the edge of his pants and tugged down to drop them. The large tent now in her face was making her heat up. "Finally get to see it." She whispered to herself.

"Someone is very confident here." Jack teased. "Anything special you'd like from me?" He questioned, grabbing her hands to stop her from removing his underwear.

Fluttershy paused as a blush consumed her features. "Um there is one thing." She said, standing up fully to move over to the closet. After removing a box and reaching inside she pulled out a collar and leash. "Could you um p-put this on me?" She asked softly.

Ode to joy began to play in Jack's head when he realized where this was going with her. "It's always the quiet ones that are the freakiest." His mind said, the Omegas and Scorch could be heard in the back of his head laughing like mad men at the situation. "Come closer so I can." He said but just as she took a step towards him he said. "Ah ah ah. Hands and knees." He ordered. A squeak escaped her and slowly but surely she knelt down and crawled over to him. Once she was close enough he motioned for her to turn around. Taking the collar, Jack slipped it on her and tugged it up pulling her with it while adding slight pressure to her throat. Once she was stood up and facing him his face softened. "I want you to know that you can be open and safe with me. If you feel we are going to fast or farther then you are comfortable tell me so I can stop immediately to make sure you are okay." He said gently.

Fluttershy smiled and hugged him. "I will just... i've always wanted to try this so can we start slow?" She asked, looking to him with puppy dog eye's.

Jack chuckled before stepping back and putting on a commanding tone. "Strip down." He ordered.

She could feel herself getting excited at the chance to try something new. Reaching for the hem of her shirt she lifted the fabric up and off her. Her bra now visible in lacey black, the article barely holding up her large breasts. Her hands fell down to her pants but heard a cough from Jack. Looking up she could see him watching her, his eye's raking over her body as he made a spinning motion with his hands for her to turn around. A mirror was now in front of her where she could see him watching her as she now undid her pants, letting them fall as she bent over. Before she could look back up as she straightened a pair of hands gripped her hips. Giving a moan the hands moved across her body, sometimes gripping hard on her tits or thighs while other times like little ghosts grazing her fur and making the skin shiver. "Ah Jack." She moaned out followed by a squeak and louder moan when he roughly grabbed her tits.

"Thats master to you pet." He growled, his deep voice making her shake with the power behind it. "Now let's get the rest off of you." He said, reaching behind her and undoing the clasp with one hand while the other dragged her panties down. Now with her fully naked he attached the leash to her collar and pushed her back to her knees. Giving a tug he lead her to the bed and stood next to it. "Take it off." He commanded, pointing to his underwear. She quickly tugged it down and let his cock bounce out to tap her on the nose. 

"Oh my." She whispered when she finally saw just how large he was. Sticking out her tongue she began to lick from the bottom of his shaft all the way to the tip, repeating on each side till it was wet. Opening her mouth she slowly took his cock into it, getting about half way she could almost feel it on the back of her throat. Moving her head back and forth she began to suck him off being spurred on when Jack let out moans of approval.

"Thats a good little pet." He groaned, rubbing behind her ears before grabbing a handful of her hair. "But it's time you really opened up." He added, forcing more of his cock into her mouth and down her throat. She did her best to widen her neck but his dick was just to large and she was chocking on it slowly. Her breathing getting harder to do but by the gods was she loving the rough treatment as her eyes rolled up. Just as she felt she would pass out he pulled his cock out of her mouth making her whine. Slapping her slightly across the face he pulled the leash to get her bent over the bed. When she tried to look back he gave a command "Look forward, hands on the bed. If you take them off you will be punished." This made her give a small squeak and quickly look ahead. Kneeling behind her Jack stuck his tongue out to gently lick at her pussy making her moan out. Slowly pushing deeper caused her moans to get louder, slipping a finger inside as well to help stimulate her further. Eventually Fluttershy couldn't hold herself up from the pleasure coursing through her body that she collapsed onto the mattress. 

When Jack pulled away suddenly she was about ask him what was going on when a sharp pain went through her body as he gave a slap to her ass. "Ahh!" She cried out as he gave another one, turning her ass red slightly from the smacks. When she braced for the next one she was shocked as he quickly began to finger her while pinching one of her nipples. Eventually she felt an orgasm start to build from the rough treatment and just as it was about to peak... he stopped. Collapsing to the bed her breath was ragged. "Master please let me cum." She begged, clawing at the sheets. Feeling his hands turn her over she was about to ask what he was doing when she felt his cock land just above her pussy.

"Spread your legs." He ordered, an intense stare on his face. She quickly opened them even further allowing him to line up and push just the tip inside. She gave a loud gasp from the stretching just from his tip, her hands flying to tap at his abs while shacking. Jack took a hold of them and pinned them to the sides near her head. "I will go slow but after I'm in you are going to be fucked till I am satisfied." He growled at her.

Nodding her head furiously she replied "Please use your toy master. I need this." Clasping her legs around his hips to lock him closer. Feeling him push deeper and deeper into her soaking wet pussy, squirming from the feeling of being filled up. "Oh gods, oh fuck!" She said loudly as he finally sat fully inside her. She could practically see a small bulge in her stomach from where he was in her. As he dragged himself out of her at a torturously slow speed all she could do was moan and whine. Then just as his tip sat in her he pushed in suddenly making her scream out in both pain and pleasure. Repeating this process each time getting faster and faster until he was pounding into her with such force that the bed was banging into the wall. Finally Fluttershy could cum as a wave of pleasure washed over her body making her cry out while her legs and arms twitched and moved on their own from the shock.

"On your stomach." Jack ordered, flipping her over so that her legs could touch the floor as she laid on the bed. Pushing back inside her with little resistances Jack pulled the leash to raise her head while chocking her at the same time. Her cries and moans spurring him on to keep going, driving him closer and closer to his own orgasm. He could see Fluttershy gripping the sheets with a iron grip from how hard he was riding her. Ripping her hands from the sheets and pulling them behind her he lifted her chest off the bed to an almost standing position to dig deeper into her pussy till finally with an animalistic groan he came inside her, painting the walls of her pussy with cum. Fluttershy gave a guttural moan as she was let go, collapsing on the bed to weakly paw at it. When she gave a small whimper Jack lifted her up and gently rested her on the bed, wrapping the sheets over them and softly combing her head as she clung to him shaking. "I hope I wasn't too rough on you." He said quietly.

"No... no. You were so good. Thank you for being here with me. With us." She replied back just as softly. Slowly the two drifted off to sleep as Luna's moon rose ahead and the animals in Shy's cottage moved away from the door with blushes all over their faces.
> Negotiations (Moderate editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The world rotated below Jack as he floated in space, the sun gently lighting up parts of the spinning sphere. A slow clapping of hands could be heard behind him making the man turn. The three voices in his head stood there applauding him minus Brave. "What's with the clapping? She isn't the first I've slept with." He asked them much to Lucky and Scorch's enjoyment.

"Well you are collecting as sizable group with even more looking at you with interest but that's not really why we are here." Replied Lucky with a laugh.

"He's right." Growled Brave in his usual stern voice. "The undead are popping up in new lands. One such being the Badlands here." He explained, pointing down to a now glowing spot on the earth of a browned and torn looking landscape. "Guards are already there working on keeping it under control while also gaining members for that division you wanted to make. Unfortunately though tensions are rising between the current dragon lord and some of their rivals."

Scorch stepped next to Jack and pointed over to Equastria. "When you wake up there's going to be a message waiting for you from Celestia. She doesn't want the current lord being overthrown as this one has been the most willing to work with other nations in centuries. I can feel my corpse waltzing around down in the area summoning old dragons and influencing the rivals though I can't say which one's exactly" He continued the conversation.

Jack gave a hum before snapping his fingers together. "Okay I understand all this but question. Did you ever talk to your hero form?" He asked making the three snap their eyes onto him. "O...kay. Judging from your reactions that's not normal." He said , leaning back slightly. "Listen I only had a brief talk and he helped me get better from the wereboar." He quickly added before any of them could start yelling.

Breathing deeply Scorch gripped Jack on the shoulder tightly. "It is one thing to turn into hero form but to actually talk to your own is a whole other level. Most of the time it means a part of your mind broke off to make it come to life. Like how mine did and became the corrupted version of me." He lectured to the human as the two Omegas looked away in remembrance.

"Oh that would explain the looks you gave huh. Well so far I've only talked to him once and he helped me and I definitely don't feel corrupted in any way." Jack stated, patting Scorch on the back. The world started to zoom on to Fluttershy's cottage making everyone aware on the limited time left to talk alone. "Listen if anything starts to happen or I feel funny you guys will be the first to know okay?" He told them with a gentle smile. They all nodded as they faded away, thoughts and plans already running through their minds.



Jack felt a hand slowly running up and down his chest as he awoke. "Enjoying yourself there?" He asked Shy who gave a squeak in surprise.

"Oh I hope I didn't wake you up." She worriedly apologized. She sat up letting the sheet hang loosely off her still naked body from last nights love making.

As Jack opened his mouth a rapid knock at the front door made them both pause. Getting dressed quickly Fluttershy reached the door first and opened it to reveal a bouncing Twilight. Jack stood behind Fluttershy and wrapped his arms around her waist while resting his head atop of hers making a blush bloom across her face. "Let me guess, something from the princesses?" He casually asked with a yawn, playing down his knowledge of what was about to happen.

Twilight nodded her head like a giddy school girl who'd just been asked to the dance. "YES!" She shouted, thrusting a piece of paper into their face's. "The princesses want the elements to go to the badlands and talk about some of the negotiations and trade deals we have with them! Isn't that great?" She asked excitedly.

Fluttershy gently put a hand on her friends shoulder to help her stop moving so much, then asked a question. "How long do we need to pack for?" 

"Two weeks for the round trip." Replied Twilight now calming down from her friends soft touch. "She also mentioned something for you Jack." She added now looking to the still slightly tired man.

"And what would that be?" He questioned nonchalantly while his mind looked to the back to see the Omegas and Scorch watching the talk. "Do I need to fight a big bad dragon to help show we are tough, or write a poem that will make the lord cry, oh how about a fancy song and dance sequence?" He teased, receiving a gently jab to his stomach from Shy who couldn't help let out a giggle.

Twilight let out a small laugh as well. "No silly, they want you to come so that one we can get them used to you and two for you to see the world more." She explained. "Now go get packed I have to tell the others about this!" She ordered making both Fluttershy and Jack give little salutes.

Once the princess had left leaving the two alone Fluttershy pressed up to the human while hiding her face. "Yes little one?" Asked Jack leaning down closer to her.

"Can we... have a little fun. Before packing?" She whispered. Jack straightened up and immediately threw her over his shoulder heading for the bedroom with her happily giggling in excitement as they rose the steps.



The girls and Spike were waiting at the train station impatiently for the last two people to arrive. "What's taking them so long even Rarity got here on time." Whined Rainbow, pointing to the fashionista who was filing her nails next to a small mountain of luggage.

"I hope they didn't run into any problems?" Spike added worriedly. He had heard what had happened to Jack and the crusaders but he'd been so busy helping Twilight he never had the time to visit.

The others continued to talk amongst themselves as the seconds ticked by till Pinkie pointed out Jack and Fluttershy rushing for the station. "There they are!" She shouted in her usual bubbly voice. "Why is Fluttershy's mane all messed up?" She questioned. The others looked and could see Shy's hair tossed around as if she had just woken up.

Rarity's eyes widened in realization before a almost dark laugh escaped her. "Ooooohhh that's going to be some very juicy gossip for a while." She whispered to herself as the two made it. "What took you two so long?" She asked, getting close up to Fluttershy who still had some after glow on her face. The glow lit up at the question already knowing what she was in for.

"Oh you know the usual, Shy wanted to make sure she was presentable so had me help find the right outfit. I think you are rubbing off on her Lady Rarity." Jack smoothly replied, taking the white mares hand and lightly kissing it making her blush just as much as Shy and stammer. Letting go he looked to the train. "Whelp no point delaying the boarding anymore then we have. Come on everypony." He said, marching into the locomotive.

Once everyone was settled into their seats the train gave a lurch as the engine was fed fuel to move on. Some of the group headed for their rooms while Jack looked out the window humming a small tune to himself. Soon the only noise filling the train was the slow chugging of the machine itself and his soft humming that is until a passenger near him screamed. Looking over Jack and the others still in the cabin saw undead pegasi flying next to the train each in various states of decay it looked like. "Holy bucking shit!" Shouted one of the passengers as Jack stood up from his seat.

Sighing he stepped for the doors leading to the connection point between the bodies of the train. "Stay inside." He ordered everyone as he opened the door finding a undead standing at it. He quickly sent a magic bolt to blast the head off the monster, it's body going limp and falling off the train. When he looked back to the different ponies and dragon in the train he gave one more word. "Stay." Before gripping the ladder near the door to help him swing himself out and up on to the top of the still driving train. Seeing some of the undead flying for the front of the train he gave a grunt of annoyance at the situation. "Couldn't let me relax till the badlands could you." He complained, stomping forward on the roofing taking shots at the flying pegusi. Singing lightly to himself he marched on. "One shot, two shot, three shot, four shots. All I hear are gun shots, this is where the fun starts." As magic ripped from the barrel and flew straight taking out the creatures one by one.

Taking notice of this as more of them dropped a few slowed down to now fly towards him giving unholy screeches as they rushed towards him. Some began to even dodge out of his aim to avoid being hit now getting closer then he'd like. "Seven, eight, nine, ahhhh you made me miss!" He whined as he had been keeping track of his streak. He could see two more still flying ahead so he summoned a wall in front of them, slowing them slightly. Picking up the pace into a run now with more projectiles making it harder for the undead to dodge him. One dropped onto the roof where his boot caved in the skull when he stepped on it, splattering the roofing in bits of bone and brains. Another bounced of the roof and slid leaving a streak across the roof and even catching for a little just at the window where Jack could hear slightly muffled screaming before it also fell off. "I am never going to hear the end of that." He mumbled, catching up quickly to the last two monsters as they dipped into the drivers section. Jumping down he landed on top of one of the pegusi as it lunged at one of the conductors crushing it quickly under his feet while pointing his finger to the side and blowing off the head of the last one. "Yo, so like do you guys get pretty good insurance for attacks on trains?" Jack asked jokingly to the two shaking stallions. Turning back he kicked the one that had died under him off while pushing the other over the side to help clear up the space before slipping into the cabin behind the engine. As he walked Jack entered a cabin with a bar and food set out. "Oooohh snacks." He said, happily picking up a few and eating them as he walked, picking up a glass of some brown liquid he assumed was alcohol and sipped on it lightly as he walked back to where the others were.

Applejack immediately shouted at him once he entered. "Is everythin' okay?" Rushing up from her spot where she had been holding closed the door he had left through.

Jack lazily looked up from his glass of what he figured now was whiskey and gave a small start. "What? Oh right, right that whole undead thing, yeah that's all done now everyone can relax." He casually said walking up to a shaking mare who looked ready to break down into insanity from the scares. "Drink?" He asked, offering the glass to the mare who swiped it from his hands. Swinging her head back the mare drank it all down in one gulp giving a massive sigh and slouching in her seat. "Better?" He asked to which she replied.

"Much, thank you sir." She gave a weak smile as what Jack could assume was her husband wrapped his arm around her and the two fell into soft whispers occasionally glancing his way.

Once the human sat back down with his group Spike and Fluttershy collided into him from either side to look him over. "You aren't hurt right?" Fluttershy asked worriedly, looking over on her side before nodding when she saw no marks as Spike finished his.

Jack gave a laugh at all their worried looks. "Please. You think those small fry could worry me. I'm fine they never even touched me." He boasted lightly which helped ease everyponys postures. "So how long is the train ride again?" Jack asked, wrapping his arm around the two at his side's who quickly pressed in closer.

Twilight hummed lightly before shrugging. "About two days so as long as no more problems like whatever that was happen we should all be able to relax." She said, looking to the window at the slowly changing landscape. "By the way you probably don't know who the dragon lord is do you?" She added, looking the man over.

"Nope." He replied in almost the same way Big Mac said it.

Spike perked up at this new info. "Oh, let me help fill you in then!" He excitedly said. For the next few hours Spike with the help of the others explained to Jack about Ember the current dragon lord and how they all had gotten involved with her along with a dragon test thing that Jack still didn't fully understand but then again he had dazed off a bit when Twilight went on a lecture or three about dragon history. By the end the sun was setting and the land had turned into desert. "And that's everything you need to know about the badlands plant life." Spike and Twilight finished.

The sound of snoring could be heard coming from Rainbow and Pinkie who were position with Rainbows face leaned back with a little bit of drool leaking out of her mouth while Pinkie was somehow sleeping in the carry-on section of the train above hanging half out. "Well at least I won't be a complete idiot while meeting with them." He replied, giving his own yawn as he stood up and stretched. "I think it would be a good idea for us to go to sleep. Don't want to be zombies in the morning." He teased, gently picking up Pinkie Pie as Applejack got Rainbow Dash. Once the two had been put to their beds the others went their separate rooms except for Spike and Fluttershy who fidgeted nervously in front of his rooms door.

"Um could we maybe... ugh spend the night... with..." Fluttershy tried to get out, looking everywhere but at Jack.

"What she's trying to say is can we sleep with our big, strong, lover man." Spike explained for them both to which Jack stood there and didn't move a muscle. "Um, please?" Spike added with a sideways grin.

Jack reached past the two and slide open the door as he squeezed by. The two looked to the ground about to walk back to their rooms when his hands reached from the dark room to grab their shirt collars, dragging them in with happy squeals, the door closing behind them.



The rest of the train ride went without anymore issues besides the girls waking to the sounds of a dragon's growl and a mare's moans that came from Jack's room that night. Rarity was in a giddy fit at the worn out but happy looks the two had while Jack just strolled by whistling a little tune as he made his way to the meal cabin. "Enjoy yourself there?" Rarity asked with a giggle. When both nodded slowly, too busy keeping their eyes open to be embarrassed she continued. "How would you describe him?" She prodded.

"Heaven." Came Spike's tired voice.

"Big." Was Shy's answer.

Rarity was having a field day with the two while the others followed to the cabin Jack had gone in, finding him chatting with the mare he had given the drink too. "So you are here with the elements on political business?" Asked the mare.

"Yep, you can sort of count me as the body guard in a way but also this is a chance for me to see more of the world." Jack answered with a nod, sipping at a small cup of tea. "By the way what is your name?" He asked with a raised brow.

The mare gave a small laugh. "My names Buttertap. My husband is Bright Glass and I must say thank you for saving the train yesterday." She thanked the man but was waved off.

"Nonsense dear, anyone who can do what I can would have done the same. Oh, looks like my groups here, got to go." He said, giving a small wave as he moved to the bar where the others were sitting. "How's everyone doing?" He asked them as a salad was placed in front of him. "Could I have some pepper please?" He asked the waiter who nodded quickly and retrieved his request. The others just watched him still slightly out of it from their sudden wake up.

The group slowly woke up and chatted as they ordered food. Jack looked out to the window to see dark mountains and crags dotting the landscape. "Got any news for me?" He asked in his mind to the three other residents.

"From what we can tell in the various magic fields is that Scorch's body has summoned something up powerful but we can't tell exactly." Came Lucky's voice, appearing in the windows glass.

"My best guess as to what it would be is Dark Reaver. An old enemy I killed while still alive who almost put me in an early grave." Now came Scorch's voice. "He was a monster of a dragon when he was alive but then I had to kill him a second time when it was learned he had become a dracolich." He add.

Jack hummed to himself. "So got an undead super dragon that also can raise zombies, just what I always wanted. Okay how about these negotiations? Any tips on how to help convince them to our side in this fight?" He asked them.

Brave answered this time. "Dragons respond to strength. If you can prove your might, which I hope you can with all the training we've done, you should be able to gain favor that way."

"Got it. Should be easy enough." He muttered as the train gave a toot while pulling into the last stop on the groups trip.

A old and skinny stallion in a conductors uniform gave a call into the cabin. "End of the line!" He shouted.

Jack stood up but he couldn't shake a growing feeling that line was a little more then it was meant. "Well only one way to find out after all." He said, putting on a smile to hide how he felt from the others as they grabbed their bags and disembarked into new lands.
> Negotiations p.2 (moderate editing)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The group moved from the station up the path leading into a city built into the mountain. Dragons flew high above, some giving call outs to others passing by. While the girls talked Jack walked behind keeping his eyes open for any danger. "No escort huh. So much for diplomatic care." He grumbled, not liking some of the looks citizens of the Badlands were giving them.

Spike slowed down to walk next to him. "Don't worry too much. Ember keeps everyone in line and has been one of the larger reasons that relationships between dragons and ponies have improved." He explained. A dragon laying on the roof gave a puff of smoke just above the group as they passed. "Some are still stuck in their old ways though." He added with a nervous chuckle.

Jack didn't answer as he stared down the dragon causing it to hiss lightly and scurry away from his view. "Give me all you have on dragon habits and traditions." He said in his mind to the three other occupants.

"Well like we had gone over dragons prefer show of strength to show a good leader so whoever this Ember is must be strong." Came the gruff voice of Brave.

"The dragon lord usually also has a special group of fighters to protect them but most of the time it's for show." Lucky spoke up next.

Scorch gave a small click of his tongue. "They also don't take kindly to those that don't bow down to their lord and will often lash out if challenged, so do try not to be a sarcastic ass."Though he said that with a small laugh, knowing full well what Jack would rather do.

The human only gave a hum at the info as they also explained the challenges the next dragon lords must face or helping show weaknesses to the different types of dragons out there. The others paid no mind to his quietness except for Twilight who had a suspicion he knew something and wasn't saying it. The group moved through a market place full of different life forms from ponies to even a few yaks. Merchants called out from their stalls trying to gain a sale while some others put on small shows of skill or marketing to draw in the crowds. 

Twilight spoke up as they moved through. "It's nice to see relations moving so well after only such a short time." Looking around at the stalls until her eyes caught something of interest. "Is that...?" She asked, trailing off as she stepped up to the large dragon at the stall. "Excuse me sir is that book for sale?" She asked the grey scaled man, pointing to a book titled 'The complete guide on the Badlands.' 

"Of course! Just finished printing out the copies after my wife documented the lands." He said in a booming voice, a large toothy smile sitting comfortably on his features. "Though I will warn we barter here as Equestian bits don't yet have a value worth enough for us yet." He added with a sheepish shrug.

"How'd you know we were from Equestria?" Asked Rainbow to which the dragon looked at her confused before bursting into laughter.

Once he calmed down enough to speak he explained. "Well for one she's an alicorn." He began, pointing at Twilight. "And that's Spike! The dragon who gave up being the dragon lord to Ember. Everyone knows him and his relations to Equestria." He state, shifting his point to the much smaller purple dragon.

Twilight sighed and turned away from the book. "Unfortunately I don't have anything to trade for it though." She replied sadly.

With a smirk Jack stepped forward and pulled a book of his own out of his pack. "I imagine if you are selling knowledge you also purchase knowledge?" Asked the human. When the large dragons eyes sparked with interest at the book he held Jack continued. "You said a barter so how about this book on Fauna in Apploosa for your book?" He proposed, holding the book out so the dragon could take it.

The merchant gently took the book from the man's hands and flipped through a few pages, his interest growing quickly. Snapping the book closed he look to the group. "Deal!" He exclaimed happily. Jack picked up the guide book and looked through a few pages, noting a few spots mentioning the new enemy he would have to fight like where he had been buried and stories involving him.

With a nod to the merchant dragon Jack handed the book to the stunned Twilight who quickly opened it to devour the knowledge inside. The group turned to continue on their destination when a voice called out. "Oi Grey Tome! What are you doing giving out our lands secrets to outsiders!"

The now named merchant sighed heavily, running a claw down his face at the voice. "Oh no not him." He grumbled as he turned to look down the path at an approaching green and white dragon about the same size as Tome. "I've told you before Krampus, there are no laws stating what I can't sell to visitors to our home land especially nothing about info on our land like vegetation or food." He replied gruffly.

The new dragon was close enough now Jack could see curved horns on top of his head that resembled close to a rams, along with spikes across his arms and legs. "Well you should know the elders don't take kindly to any info being given to weaker races!" Krampus shot back. Gasps escaped the girls and Spike's lips while Jack merely rolled his eyes and yawned. This caused the offending dragon to snap it's neck towards him. "Got something to say meat?" He challenged.

Jack swaggered up closer to the green dragon, making a notice of how the market had quieted down with this dragons appearance. "A few things yeah." He replied sarcastically. "First is you need a mint, second is that if no laws state what he can't sell then you harassing this merchant is a waste of everyone's time, and three if you don't start behaving I might have to show you some manners." He listed, each one making the overgrown lizards eyes grow wider in shock and anger till his pupils dilated and he leaned dangerously close to Jack's face, fire seeping around his mouth.

"You best watch what you say weakling." Hissed Krampus.

"I'm sorry does the little green snake not like being called out? I've taken bigger shits then you." Shot back the human, staring into the dragons eyes unflinching.

Just as the green dragon reared back to breath on the unmoving human a massive claw slammed Krampus into the ground while a booming voice bellowed out the order. " ENOUGH! No fighting in the market. Krampus, we have talked about this before that you do not decide how things are run around here." Came the deep growl of a huge red dragon with scars crossing his entire body. "And what the hell are you?" He barked at Jack.

"The names Jack. I'm the security escort for the bearers of harmony to meet with Lord Ember, you are?" The man questioned.

The dragon leaned down to be more eye to eye with Jack. "Security yet you are willing to start fights. Must not be good at your job." Growled the dragon. "I am Red Armageddon. Head figure of the guard designated to protect the Dragon Lord." He boasted.

Jack rubbed his nose muttering loud enough for the dragon to hear. "Says the guy who can't send a detachment to protect and guide political delegates." This cause Red's nostrils to flare but quickly eased up with a smirk.

"This one actually has some guts." The huge dragon thought. "Follow." Is all he said, the smirk quickly sliding off his face as he finally stepped off Krampus who scurried away. The group followed the mound of muscle all the way to where the Lords resided. Passing through the door Red shrank down to about eight feet tall, walking on two feet now. On the Jack's confused look he explained. "Every dragon has the ability to shift forms from our more feral to more evolved. Some just prefer one over the other." 

Further into the structure they passed a set of heavy stone doors pulled open by two also large dragons. revealing Ember sitting on her thrown surrounded by gems and gold. "Welcome! I see you finally made it." Ember spoke happily, rising from her seat and walking over to the group. With a quick hug to each person but adding a small peck to Spike's cheek that made Jack bristle slightly. On seeing his frown she gave a small laugh. "Don't worry Mr.Teller, I know about your connection with my friend Spike here. We are simply good friends and I have no plans on stealing him away from you." She said with open arms.

This eased Jack to the point he gave his own chuckle. " Sorry, guess I get a little protective of my people. It's a pleasure to meet you." He replied, one hand out for a shake that Red growled at.

"Peace now Red." Teased Ember as she stepped forward, accepting the handshake. "He can be rather protective as well for his people." She explained much to Red's slight embarrassment.

The group talked for a few more minutes before Twilight coughed into her hand. "I'm sorry to ruin this chat but I do want to make sure I talk about why we came here." She apologized.

"Ah yes the trade deals and negotiations!" Ember replied, clasping her clawed hands together. "If you'll follow me we can discuss them." She gestured as Twilight and Red followed. Jack moved forward as well but was stopped by the large dragon. "Let him come Red, he is her guard after all." Called Ember. Before he could even put up a complaint she shot it down saying. "Don't act like you wouldn't argue leaving me alone in a foreign country you big baby."

"Yeah Red." Jack sarcastically added, moving around the growling dragon to follow the Princess and Lord. The rest of the group were shown to their rooms so that they could wait for their leaders return.

Once the four entered a room with a map of the world in the center and books of maps scattered around the walls and seats Jack spotted guard ponies looking at the map with a few other dragons around as well. Immediately the warriors snapped to attention while he waved them to relax. "We've been following on your orders." One of the guards listed when Jack got close enough.

"Ah so they weren't lying when they said you were their commander." Ember spoke. "Anyways we can get to what they need after we finish with you Twilight." She added, sitting on a free spot. The two talked over the details while Jack stood near the guards.

"What have you got so far?" Jack questioned as he looked over the map that was marked in a few spots. One matching Reavers resting place.

A guard pony with a large plumed helm tapped three spots on the map close to Reaver's. "Three burial zones have already been opened and reanimated." She stated. "Though we have tracked down most of the bodies that had been resurrected." She added.

"And recruiting?" Their leader asked.

Another answered stepped up for that one. "We have our eyes on a few candidates." She simply said but when he followed her eye sight Jack saw they were interested in Red.

The rest of the meeting passed uneventfully. That is until a dragon in large robes covered in jewels, gems, and gold that bulged over his pot belly burst into the room. "Lord Ember! Why was I not told of a negotiations meeting with representatives from Equestria?" The fat dragon whined. A sleazy smile on his face as Ember gave a groan of annoyance.

"Ahh Sir Grater, so nice to see you." She faked a smile. "I thought you were busy counting your hoard pile so I didn't wish to be a burden to you." She explained through clenched teeth. Jack looked to Red and could see he didn't like this new person either.

But something else was off about him. 

Deciding to play dumb Jack walked into the way of the fast approaching dragon and bowed. "Do my ears deceive me? Did Lord Ember just say you are the amazing Sir Grater!" He said excitedly. This halted the large dragon and made everyone look confused at him.

"You know who I am?" Sputtered Grater.

Jack looked up with a wide grin as if star struck. "Of course I do. You are one of the greatest dragons to live, and one of the wealthiest!" Gushed the man. With his hands behind his back Jack signaled to the others to finish their talks. "It's an honor to meet you, would you be able to share some of your great tales with a humble diplomat?" He asked, slowly leading the gaudy individual away back outside.

Grater straightened up at the compliments and forgot quickly about the others as he began to tell Jack some of the most BORING stuff he had ever heard. The others quickly finished their talks so that they could separate before the noble got back. "That Jack sure knows how to handle a situation." Complimented Ember.

"You have no idea." Twilight confirmed, turning back to the table. "Who was that noble anyways?" She asked with a raised brow.

"That was Sir Grater, one of the nobles in the dragon hierarchy. He along with a few others still are stuck in the old ways, not wanting interaction with the other nations or thinking they are superior." She groaned out. "They are always trying to counter any changes I put in place and one even tried to start a revolt to overthrow me." She added much to Twilight's horror.

"They'd really go that far? What did you do with the one who revolted?" She whispered in hushed shock.

Ember gave a toothy grin. "Oh don't worry about him too much dear. He was handled accordingly." She soothed cryptically.



"And the fool actually gave me the gold!" Shouted Grater in glee as he finished another annoying story to Jack.

"I can't believe it!" Jack gushed back, his mind working past the boredom to try and find why this noble set off an alarm to him.

Lucky popped up, floating at his side. Maybe it's because he's a noble? Can't trust them." He suggested.

"Hey! Celestia and Luna are trustable!" Countered Scorch in annoyance. "Besides, maybe it's how we can't really judge how strong he is. There's like no magic coming off the dude." He added to the possibility.

"No, I can tell he's not that strong already from how much weight he has." Shot down Jack. "How about you Brave, any ideas?"

Brave hummed in thought as he looked over the fat dragon. "For once I actually can't think of anything at all." He admitted in his usual gravelly voice.

They were cut from thought when Grater clapped Jack on the back hard. "Well I must be off! Have to see how some of my businesses are doing." He exclaimed, having forgot all about Ember and the others. As the dragon waddled away Jack looked after him with a scowl.

"And that is Sir Grater, one of if not the most self absorbed dragons in the land." Came the now familiar growl of Red.

"I don't like him." Jack grunted out, folding his arms and trying to think of anything that made the guy stand out to him. "Something feels off about him." He said, turning to look at the still humanoid dragon.

Red gave a smoky puff from his mouth. "You feel it too? He always rubbed me the wrong way but recently I fear something worse has gotten involved with him that is making my scales itch." The dragon explained. "Always hungered for the position of Lord and when Ember was made Lord instead he tried just about everything he could legally to get her removed." He add.

Jack looked after the receding form of the fat dragon and gave a hum. "We both don't like each other that's obvious." He started, looking the larger man in the eyes. "But we both can agree things are happening around here that are putting those we are supposed to be protecting in danger." He stated.

"What are you proposing?" Questioned Red. He leaned down to be more eye to eye with the human, curious as to what he would say next.

"I'd imagine you know about Reaver's revival and what he's done so far?" Asked Jack. When his listener nodded he continued. "My group might have an idea of where he will be next and since you don't trust me and I don't trust you, Let's work together to scout the next area and maybe even stop whatever else can happen." He suggested, sticking his hand out for the dragon to grab.

The large red dragon gave another puff of smoke before firmly gripping Jack's hand. "I can do that. Besides, if you try anything I can just kill you where no one will know." He agreed adding the last taunt back at the smiling man.
> Apocalypse Day
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack and Red slowly crept along the walls of one of Grater's homes, the moon hanging above though partially blocked by clouds. Looking to the shrunken dragon Jack gestured up the wall. Receiving a silent nod Jack moved away from the wall before rushing towards Red. Planting his foot into the cupped hands of the dragon he was launched on top of the wall. Reaching down he hoisted up his companion. The two dropped to the other side, watching over the grounds to make sure no one was around. Jack pulled magic from around him to cast shadows over their forms, obscuring the view of anyone that might look at them. "This will hold for only a little while so we need to get a move on." Jack whispered, getting a grunt in reply. What light there was cast from the heavenly body above revealed glittering paths inlaid with gems of all shapes and sizes, walls carved of smooth obsidian, and plants that normally couldn't survive the environment of the Badlands without expensive care. 

One thing was the structure's in front of him architecture. Buildings jutted left and right with hanging passages connecting between them. Stones with markings of figures or scenes covered the grounds and even the mountains face itself. Red raised a claw to point towards one such scene. "That's the fall of Reaver and that one over there is actually of my ancestor Stormcaller. He was the one that made our family personal guards of the Dragon Lords after the defeat of Reaver." He said, growling lowly. "These markings are only allowed to be placed over burial sites of respected warriors past. To think Grater would go so far as build a place over one." He added.

The two continued forward sticking to any deep shadows they could. Both cast glances at each other as a feeling settled in their stomachs. This was a home of their target a dragon of wealth, so why weren't there any guards or more noticeable security measures. "Send out a scan Jack, somethings being hidden here. Scorch warned, he and the others in Jack's head keeping watch for anything threatening.

Without even waiting Jack raised a hand in front of him, a circle appearing in front of his palm etched with runes. "Let's see what dirty secrets you are hiding from us Grater." He thought as a wave of magic spread out from him. He felt multiple marks of magic sources pop up but it was when he felt a cluster of marks that sent a wall of revulsion through his system did he fully realize the severity of the situation. "You absolute idiot..." He mumbled, grabbing Red's arm. "What's the rule on destroying a site like this?" He asked.

"Death of course, these places house our greatest champions or mark a glorious battle. Why do you ask?" He questioned, turning with suspicion to the human. "You aren't thinking of damaging this place further are you?" He accused.

Jack looked around before tightening his grip on Red. "Reaver's already tainted this place. Your hero's are being used as slaves now." He said, pointing downwards. "Below us is where they are hiding." He added, waiting for a violent reaction from his larger companion.

Leaning in Red growled "You are saying they are below us right now?" His free arm slowly pointed a clawed hand at Jack's throat. "You best not be lying to me punk." He sneered as flames burst to life in his palm. Without warning he slammed it down, the floor around them melting into molten rock as they quickly fell down. The floor gave away to open air revealing a cavern full of holes containing corpses of dragons.

Jack spread magic over their bodies to strengthen them as they slammed into the ground, a cloud of dirt and rocks flying around them as the molten rock dripped from above them. Surrounding on all their sides were twitching, half decayed corpses of dragons. "Does the removal of reanimated corpses of past warriors allow me a pass on damages to a burial site?" Jack asked, his hand slowly brightening.

"humph, as the head guard of those that protect the Dragon Lord I'll provide you special permission. Just keep damages to a minimum." Red grumbled, flaring his wings out as he grew in size. "Now let's purge this sickness so they may rest once more." he ordered.

The corpses lunged towards the two with howls and gurgles. The two split up, dashing into their own side of zombies. Jack let loose the magic he had been collecting into the closest corpse, blowing it's arm off. Squatting quickly he dodged a bite that would have taken his head. Sending a fist upwards he punched through the jaw of the offending zombie, feeling a slimy tongue shifting the jaw fragments around his fist. "Oh that's just disgusting." Jack groaned, ripping his fist free while taking the rest of the zombies head with it. Shaking it free he looked at his hand now covered in ooze. "I'm soooo taking a long bath after this." He whined. A fist connected with his cheek sending him flying past Red's position.

Red caught one of the diving zombies in his claws, ripping it in half before batting away two more. Dropping the body he let loose a column of flame from his maw, reducing all in front of him to ash. "You all may have been champions of your times but I stand above all others!" He roared, slashing into a corpse approaching him. When Jack flew past his attention was taken from him for a moment but it was enough for some of the reanimated to climb onto his form, weighing him down as they tore at his body, slowly removing scales. Ripping at the he fell to a knee, anger building in his chest.

Jack shook his head as he pulled himself from the wall. Scanning over the area he saw Red being engulfed by the Zombie crowd. Sending blasts forward he sniped the bodies off of his larger friend, walking towards him while keeping the ones approaching himself at bay. "Ah ah ahh! No touching." He joked, finally reaching Red's kneeling form. "New plan big guy. I'm going to turn into something not really pretty just don't attack me ok?" He explained to the slowly rising dragon

Breathing heavily with flames leaking with each breath from his mouth Red snapped "Fine, just leave enough for me to vent my anger on." 

With that concern out of the way Jack's body began to crack and twist into his monster form. The blood leaking from his face where he was hit turned black as he and Red rushed the enemy together. They tore through the bodies, limbs flying into the air as each bit, clawed, or burned anything that crossed their paths. Congealed blood poured from the corpses as they shredded apart. Each grunted in effort as they themselves took slashes or bites, opening their own wounds. 

Soon the two stood with heaving chests as all the zombies lay dead once more at their feet. Red shook his body to knock off the chunks of rotting scales that got stuck to him while Jack wiped the blood from his face. Looking around Jack spotted a table with a few papers peeking out from under a body. Walking up to it he hefted the body to the side, letting it drop to the floor as he looked over the now stained papers. "Income, expenses, etc....Wait, what is this?" He muttered to himself as he looked over a strangely marked document. The writing was in a language he couldn't understand yet it clearly looked to be a piece of importance. "Hey Red! Come here a sec." He yelled to the now slightly less covered dragon.

Stomping over Red looked over the humans shoulder at the document he held up for him to see. "When the time comes open up the gates to...JACK WE NEED TO GO NOW!" He suddenly shouted after mumbling aloud, grabbing the human before launching them back through the hole they had come through. Once they broke the the surface Red threw Jack into the air while he shifted fully into his dragon form. Catching the human once more now on his back Red flew at a feverous pitch back towards the capitol.

"Mind telling me what's going on!" Jack shouted over the rushing winds, clutching at the spikes along the dragons back. "What gates was the paper talking about?" He asked.

Red's wings were beating as fast as they could rocketing them through the air. "Grater's going to open the gates of the city to let not just the undead under Reaver's control but Reaver himself in! If we don't get back now the city and all in it will fall!" He explained.

"Shit!" Jack shouted, magic welling up in his hands. Sending the power through Red he boosted the dragons strength, allowing the large reptile to fly faster. "Grater must have known we would come for him somehow. I'm going to spike his head on a spear when I get my hands on him." He added.

The two could do nothing else but help each other fly as fast as possible back to the capitol. both of their minds on their respective cares.



an hour prior

Ember happily moved with Twilight through the halls on their way back from finalizing routes. "So tell me more about this Jack figure. Clearly he's more then meets the eyes if he's caught the princesses, some of the elements, and even Spike." She asked to the purple furred woman.

Rolling her eyes Twilight let out a small giggle. "Where do I even begin. The man has no sense of self care. He's dove head first into danger to save some of us multiple times even getting close to dying from those times. He sings, cooks, dances, and seems to have some piece of advice for any situation." She listed, sighing happily.

Ember smirked at how the young princess talked. "Sounds like you like him just as much as the others do." She teased, pressing into the smaller woman. "I'm sure the others have already had some thorough experience with him. " She teased further, enjoying the blush that appeared on Twilight's face.

Stammering Twilight tried to come up with a rebuttal before hanging her head. "I mean yeah, it would be impossible not find something in him that attracts you. I just worry when it's my turn to court him I'll mess up..." She said, fidgeting with her fingers.

Giggling Ember poked at Twilight's ears to distract her from her thoughts. "Let me give you a bit of advice from someone who went through the same things. As you know Red is head of my personal guard but he wasn't always there. Originally his brother was supposed to lead but after a threat against me that his brother failed to stop the big idiot stepped in to save me. Of course I chewed out his brother at failing at his job but I also promoted Red to head. Over time I got to know the red oaf quickly falling for him. But want to know what I did to finally get his attention?" She explained, looking the mare in the eyes. When Twilight silently nodded she leaned in with a smirk. "I was so nervous not knowing how to ask him out I just ordered him to take me on one and want to know the best part. The big boy had never been on one so he kept stumbling around trying to make it perfect and what not without realizing I was panicking just from being on a date with the guy." She further explained, laughing loudly at the memory. "Basically what it boils down to is don't let yourself second guess yourself or you may miss it. I've seen how ever brief we met that he cares about all of you deeply. Just ask and I know he'll say yes." She finished, patting the mare's head before marching further down the hall. "Now come one! We gotta meet up with the others if we want to let you all go shopping." She ordered with a laugh.

Twilight stood stunned for a moment as her brain took in the advice. Eventually she snapped out of it running after the receding Dragon Lord. Neither noticed Grater moving around the bend with a amulet around his neck towards the throne room.

As he stepped into the room he began to nervously laugh to himself. "Time to finally earn my rightful spot as ruler of this peasants." He whispered to himself, approaching the throne chair. Sitting into it slowly he sighed in satisfaction. Flexing his claws he kneaded the armrests. "I can't to enjoy the luxuries this job provides. The wealth alone!" He spoke to himself. reaching up he removed the amulet to gaze into the deep black gem inside. "All I need to do is let him in and then it's all mine." He said, raising the gem high above his head. With a heave Grater threw the gem to the ground shattering it into fragments.

A black cloud began to ooze from the pieces, collecting in the center of the room. A massive clawed hand reached from the depths of the cloud to grab one of the pillars close by, it's grip dissolving the stone in seconds as another hand only made of bone reached out, touching the ground. Soon bent, misshapen legs touched down below the cloud as the rest of the black smoke rose up the legs revealing more of a body. Large openings showed bare bone and spilling organs, a tail split in two, finally reaching the head were a face half burned to the bone with rotting flesh swinging from it's unburned side. The figure inhaled the black smoke in one deep breath before sighing heavily with satisfaction. A deep groan of pleasure escaped the massive body. "Ahhhhhhhh, it is so good to be back in my throne room." The figure spoke, casting an eye around the area. "Could use a bit of decorative change but that can be easily fixed with a few heads on spikes scattered around." It muttered.

"Um uh excuse me sir what do you mean by your throne room? Isn't it supposed to go to me?" Grater asked shakily, staring up at this imposing figure.

Looking down at the short and fat dragon covered in jewels the figure gave a brief hum as if in thought. "That's right I did promise you the throne didn't I?" It spoke slowly, looking over the now smiling dragon who's tail was wagging. "It's a shame though that I don't care for keeping promises." The figure sighed.

Stopping his wagging Grater looked at the figure in confusion. "What do you urkhh!" He began before feeling something go through his chest. Looking down Grater could see a clawed hand pierced through him. As blood began to leak from his mouth he weakly looked to the figure. "B-but mas...master Reaver. You promised..." He weakly whined.

Reaver let out a low chuckle. "You should have known not to make deals with the devil weakling. It always goes bad." He lectured with a twisted grin as he lifted the smaller dragon closer to his opening maw. A sickening crunch could be heard as Reaver consumer Grater. Smearing the blood he tried to wipe from his mouth he gave a small hum. "Bit to much fat for my tastes but it'll have to do. Now time to bring apocalypse to the living." He said to himself, stomping on the ground three times as clouds built over the land.



Lighting struck all around Jack and Red as the capitol finally entered their view. Fires could be seen rising along the buildings with many dragons flying through the air. "Damn it, we have to find Reaver. If he dies the others should follow." Red said, pushing himself as hard as he could.

As they flew into the capitols air space they soon had undead flying behind them launching attacks their way. "Let me handle them big man!" Jack shouted, turning in his spot to face the enemies. Imagining a bow in his hands he nocking and firing arrow after arrow towards the enemies, striking wing joints to send them tumbling back down to earth. A flare shot shot up into the air near their position drawing his attention. "Shit Red, turn to the left!" He shouted, pointing out the elements and Spike fighting off zombies with some dragons.

"We can't stop or else Reaver could get to Ember!" Red tried to argue back before feeling a sharp pain in his wings. Looking back he could see Jack forcing them to shift their direction. "What are you doing? Didn't you hear what I said!" He yelled.

Jack pulled hard, turning them in the direction he needed to go. "Just fly over! I can't leave them and besides they have powers that could help us!" Jack shot back.

Red groaned before adjusting, letting Jack ease his grip. "Can't believe you expect me to waste time landing near them." He grumbled.

Letting out a laugh at the complaint Jack smiled. "Who said anything about landing? Just get closer and then head for the castle. I'll catch up with you." Jack ordered. Once Red soared over the girls and Spike Jack tilted himself to the side, slipping off with ease and now plummeting to the ground. Giving a holler of excitement Jack spread his hands out to his sides, large multicolored wings made of magic appearing at his back. The wings didn't slow him but they did launch large beams of condensed magic below him, pinning any undead to the ground while catching them on fire.

The group fighting for their life looked up to see the descending human, lightning illuminating his figure. "Jack!" the group shouted, rushing to him as he stuck the ground. The saw him slowly pull himself from his squat and salute to them.

"I leave you all alone for one day and this is what happens?" He teased, doing his best to lighten the moods around. "Come on everyone. I need you all to head for the castle right now, Twilight and Ember are most likely in big trouble and we need to get them out of there." He ordered, pointing to the large structure where the clouds seemed to swirl from.

Applejack stepped forward, grabbing Jack's sleeve. "Mind telling us what in tarnation is going on?" She questioned.

"Yeah, why the hell are there zombies flying around?" Rainbow complained, gesturing wildly to everything happening. "It's like the apocalypse is happening or something!" She yelled.

Jack continued running in his spot only held back by Applejack. "Undead super dragon, evil magic, Twilight in trouble. Now let's go!" He listed while slowly dragging Applejack along.

The others looked at each other before agreeing silently it would be better to ask further questions later. The group began to work their way up the roads with a few dragons staying to fight. Fires burned around them with a few bodies laying across the streets. They took a small comfort as most seemed to zombies and not those of the living. "Who would do something like this?" Fluttershy quietly said, looking at the destruction around them.

The group continued to move through the city, avoiding any fighting that blocked their path while Jack worried how Twilight was doing. He quickly stowed the fear in him as the castle gates entered his view. Not feeling any undead near the grounds other then a large mass coming behind them. Jack shouted to the group "Everyone! Move through the castle as fast as you can. Stay together and do your best to look for Twilight and Ember." He commanded, stopping to turn back at the hoard of undead swarming towards them. Cracking his knuckles Jack stepped slowly towards the all of twisting flesh and claws. "Looks like I need to provide some last rites for you all." He smirked in excitement as the Omegas and Scorch continued to search for their targets. Diving into the wave Jack laughed with maniacal glee at being able to let loose without worrying about others getting caught up in it.

"Left side, duck, jump over, blast to the right." Brave coached, letting Lucky and Scorch do their thing. "Bit of warning when we find Reaver. Don't take him lightly or you won't even get to take a step at him before your heads separated from your body." He lectured as Jack tore the spine from a zombie missing it's legs.

"Aye aye captain!" Jack replied, smashing the spine back into the zombie. Blasting magic at his feet the earth liquified trapping the remaining undead moving. Taking a few steps back he started to punt the heads off the bodies sending them skyward over buildings. As the last one stopped twitching he rested his hands on his hips. "that should do for now." He said in approval, turning back to the castle when suddenly the ground began to shake. Looking to his destination he could see a monstrously large figure rising from the center with a glowing orb shielding a purple mare and blue dragon in one hand and a limp red dragon in the other. "No!" He shouted rushing forward towards the monster.



Red Was just flying over the castle walls when multiple undead slammed into him from above sending him tumbling to the ground. Earth flew in all directions as his form skidded along the ground. Roaring in anger he bite into the closest undead, ripping them off him. The others clashed against his scales, chipping or breaking them off leading to him bleeding slowly. Igniting his flames he spewed them across his body heating himself up while torching the others that clung to him. As the last one turned to ash he stood slowly with smoke rising from his body. "I'm killing Reaver as soon as I see him." He grumbled, stomping ahead to the open door to the castle with a few stumbles at how much energy he's had to burn getting here. Passing past the threshold the sounds of chaos outside dampened uncomfortably as if a barrier had been placed along the walls.

A deep laugh echoed through the halls as he made his way to the throne room. "So a new hatchling comes to challenge me?" Came Reaver's voice. "Let's see if you can't provide more entertainment then this fake Lord could." He added.

Getting closer to his goal Red could feel darkness seeping from the environment. The taint sending chills across his scales but bracing himself as he finally stood in front of the throne doors Red heaved them open. What he saw make rage boil inside him. Reaver stood over a glowing shield which contained Twilight who looked ready to pass out from exertion and an unmoving Ember. Spiked heads of dragon guards scattered the room, banners that once depicted legends now changed to tattered rags showing Reaver destroying the world.

Waving his hands around the evil dragon boasted "Like what you see? Decorated it all myself." He laughed cruelly before slamming a clawed hand down on the shield further pushing it into the already broken ground. When Twilight gave a cry of pain his laugh grew. "I just love the sounds this one makes. Much better then the weakling she's protecting. That one wouldn't make a peep no matter how much I struck her." He said, black smoke rising around him. "But now I have a new toy to break!" He shouted in joy, gesturing at Red who was still unmoved from his spot. Cocking his head to the side the dracolich smirked "Well don't just stand there hatchling. Let me see how hot that fire burning in you is." He coaxed, spreading his arms wide.

This snapped Red out of his freeze. A mighty roar left him as he lunged forward, claws extended in front of him. Fire engulfing around him as he flew over Twilight's shield and into Reaver, both dragons crushing the throne chair and into the broken wall behind them. Flames sprayed from the hole in the wall as Red did everything he could to rip into Reaver but each wound closed just as fast as it opened.

Twilight's attention was taken from the battle happening behind her to the familiar outcries of her friends entering the room. "Over here!" She shouted to help them find her.

As they rounded the corner  the group gasped at their friends position. Rushing forward they were stopped by a wall of darkness spiking up from the ground. Shadow figures peeled themselves from the darkness in front of them, clattering onto the floor. Spike stepped forward with his hands clenched in fists ahead of him. "Girls, focus on getting the wall down. I'll keep them back for you." He said, ready to put the fight training Jack had taught him to use. Feeling pats on his shoulder Rainbow Dash and Applejack stepped next to him.

"What and leave you with all the fun?" Rainbow teased, cracking her neck.

Applejack flicked her hat a little higher. "We ain't leaving you alone in this fight. Same goes for you Twi!" She added, stomping her hooves into the ground.

The three clashed with the shadows while the rest worked along side the dragons that followed on removing the wall. Things were kept to a standstill as they worked until Red was launched out of the hole in the wall behind Twilight into the shadow wall. "Rahh!" He growled in annoyance, shaking his head as Reaver casually strode back out. "You'll never win." He shot at the undead master.

"What makes you think I already haven't?" Reaver joked, growing slowly in size. Sending a hand forward black tendrils launched out striking Red across his body, scales and blood leaping from him as his wounds deepened. Reaver's body soon reached the point it was pressing against the ceiling, cracks forming across it. "I'll consume this world and that fool who thinks he could order me around!" He shouted in glee, picking up Red's weakened form and Twilight's shield orb.

"Everypony run!" Twilight yelled down to those working on the shadows as the roof finally broke apart letting Reaver's form to continue growing. His laugh filling her head with despair at how things have become so terrible. But a new sound caused her to look around as whistling could be heard over the din of chaos around them. Then a voice roared over everything as she finally saw what was creating the whistling.

"LET GO OF MY PRINCESS!" Jack roared, his fist slamming into Reaver's cheek snapping the undead's head to the side as a glow of light engulfed Jack's form.
> Lover's Rage
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack roared like a lion, slamming his hands into the snout of Reaver. Twisting his body the human started to pull the giant dragon up and around his shoulder. Reaver's form slammed into the mountain side, sending a wave of crushed rocks down to earth. Twilights orb and Red dropped from his clutches, falling to the ground below. Jack rushed after them summoning a large hand of magic to grab Red as he hefted the orb on his shoulders. "I got you. Don't worry." He soothed to Twilight. Touching down he could see the other girls and Spike slowly coming out of hiding. "Guys! Take these three and get out of here." He ordered, stepping back in the direction of the dracolich's form rising out of rubble. "I need to handle something." He said, slamming a fist into his palm.

"You... can't fight him.... Jack." Came the weakened voice of Red, slowly gaining consciousness.

"Red, you can't stop me from protecting those I care about. Just-" He began getting stopped by Red slamming a claw down on the ground, pushing himself into a stand.

Grunting as he cracked his neck the dragon looked down at the human. "Let me finish boy. You can't fight him without me. I have as much stake as you do." Red stated, casting a look at Ember's form. 

Laughing slightly Jack walked up to the stubborn dragon, tapping his chest, a wave of magic spreading out from the touched point. Scales and wounds began to close and repair themselves until Red looked as good as he had before fighting. "Ready then?" The human asked with a cocky grin, getting a nod from the dragon.

As they walked away Twilight called out to Jack. "Wait!" When he turned to look back at her she stopped for a moment before her eyes hardened with determination. "As a princess of Equestia and your ruler I give full rights to you Jack Teller to defeat this threat. Any problems that arise after you win will be taken care of by me." She commanded, puffing her smaller chest out.

"Come on Twi. We need to get out of here." AJ warned, tugging at the other mare's tattered sleeve.

Jack gave a laugh as they began to move away, waving at them. "As you command!" He shouted after them while a shadow began to block the light coming from outside above. "Looks like the old bastards back up." He said, looking up to see Reaver clutching the sides of the broken roof to look down at them.

"Just who thinks they can lay a finger on me?" Reaver questioned, peering down at Jack and Red.

Bowing while Red scoffed Jack shouted up at the dracolich with a smile. "Hi there! Jack Teller, hero mostly part time but getting promoted to full time." He happily chirped upwards. The smile then quickly dropped into a sneer. "Also picking up being your executioner now." He growled.

Booming laughter ripped from Reaver's chest as he threw his head back. "Ahhhh, you're the pest He said I needed to kill huh! Wonderful indeed! Now I don't need to look for you." Reaver said, looking back down at their position. "I'll enjoy turning you into my puppets." He rumbled in amusement. Raising one mighty clawed hand he sent it flying down at speeds not fitting a creature his size.

Red lashed his tail out, wrapping it around Jack's waist. Flapping his wings he sent them backwards just missing the claw. "Hop on!" He shouted, flinging Jack into the air as he himself took off.

Catching a spike along Red's back Jack hauled himself into a saddled position on Red. "Yeehaw! Let's show this old bag of bones what we can do!" He yelled, transforming a bow of magic in his hands. Firing shots of energy into Reaver the arrows  stuck, hissing but doing nothing.

"Hahaha! You'll have to do more then that to even make me feel!" Reaver laughed at their attempts before sniffing. "Why do I smell incense?" He muttered. The arrows then one by one explode in a blast of color, blowing chunks out of Reaver's body. "Rahh!" He roared in annoyance as half of his arm still holding flesh disappeared.

Pulling at his eye Jack stuck his tongue out at the dracolich. "Focus idiot! Didn't we say not take him lightly!" Brave lectured.

"He's right Jack, he almost killed me when I fought him." Scorch reminded the human, watching from his spot in Jack's mind.

"Ugh, guys?" Lucky called to them, pointing out a glowing mark near Jack's shoulders but was quickly ignored by the other two busy lecturing their carrier.

Jack elected to not listen to them as Red pulled in his wings while spinning to dodge black tendrils that shot out form their enemy's form. Flying across the visible bones on Reaver the mounted dragon let loose a torrent of flames, scorching the bones black. Twisting in the air Red let Jack get close enough to swing a fist at the bone with a fist, cracking it slightly from the force.

Another bout of laughter came from the massive undead as the charred bones seemed to reverse the damage done slowly. "Weak attacks like that won't work on me hatchlings. I am immortal and unending." He boasted, waving a hand through the air to slap them out of the sky.

Jack gripped the sides of Red pressing his thumb into a sweet spot at his wing joints. The dragons wings snapped shut suddenly and he lengthened into a sharp point, just scrapping between the clawed fingers of the monsters hands. Once the threat passed he undid his grip allowing Red to relax. "Sorry about that mate." Jack apologized.

"Warn me next time you want to control my body." Red growled. "Got any ideas on how to beat this guy? I can't just dodge everything he throws at us forever." He questioned, looking back at his rider with a scowl.

Looking over the heavily damaged city Jack could see battles still raging across the surface and skies. Anger at the chaos bubbled inside him as a frown replaced his smile. "Not really but that doesn't mean we can't try right?" He replied, his hand tightening on the spike in his hand.

Giving a 'hmph' Red swung himself upwards. Rising quickly he ducked and weaved through more black tendrils lashed out by Reaver. "Well figure something out. I have to focus on keeping us from dying." He ordered, twirling to the side but still getting slashed lightly by a shot of energy from one of the dracolich's finger tips.

"There we go! One step closer to the grave now!" The undead master yelled at them with glee. "Once I have both of your corpses' under my control I can play with those that ran away. Especially that purple pony. I want to see how long she can keep me away from tormenting that cute form with her magic." He said sleazily, licking a disgustingly decayed tongue across his lips.

As he listened to the enemy Jack's mind seemed to click into something. Blankley he didn't feel his hand slowly let go of the spike helping him stay on Red. "No..." was all he softly whispered, his form now falling towards the dracolich.

Brave and Scorch shouted at Jack as he fell while Lucky's attention drew more fully on the glowing marks on Jack's shoulder. "What in the blazes are you?" He mumbled, feeling a pressure coming off them.

"A hero!" Came Jack's voice yet somehow muffled as if in a helmet. The marks suddenly exploded in a cascade of light as metal began to fold itself over Jack's arms. Fur lined pauldrons wrapped around his shoulders as metal gauntlets appeared on his arms. with a roar Jack shouted "YOU WON'T TOUCH ANY OF THEM!" Like a comet Jack's speed doubled turning him into a blurred streak of color.

Tendrils launched from Reaver who began to laugh manically. "Yes! There's that power I felt hiding inside you! You're just like him." He joyfully said, spreading his arms out.

On contact with Jack's form the mass of tendrils evaporated into mist. His body slammed into Reaver's face sending both of them into the ground. The earth shook as if a bomb had gone off. Jack raised his fist, striking repeatedly at the undead's face. Scales flew into the air as Jack roared in rage. "I'll fucking kill you if you try to harm them!" He screamed, the armored pieces seeming to spread across his body with grinding noise as if fighting something.

"Keep focus Jack!" Lucky shouted from inside Jack's head. "Losing your cool opens you to mistakes." He lectured.

Darkness seeped from the new wounds appearing on Reaver's form as the enraged hero struck at anything within his reach. "You can try to end me hatchling." the dracolich challenged, reaching to grip the hero tightly. "But I've faced much worse then you. Your weak little hits won't do anything to me." He insulted, laughing once more while pulling Jack close to his face.

"Shut up!" Jack yelled, his mouth opening with a ball of light glowing inside. A beam poured out from the ball, widening to the size of a small building. The beam struck Reaver's face causing him to shout in pain as part of his face melted away with the beam. On feeling the monster's grip loosen Jack strained his arms to the side, forcing himself out of the grip. Rushing in he grabbed around the melted skull of Reaver as another blast built up inside of him. Seeing a blackened brain pulse slightly in the skull Jack took aim and fired the blast. Tearing through the brain and out of the bottom of the enemy's neck caused Reaver to stiffen.

Like a tree being cut down his form groaned as he fell once more. The ground sent up a wave of dust and dirt obscuring view from the outside. Reaver's body began to shrink down slowly with no more activity from him. Soon he laid out sprawled across the ground unmoving.

Jack breathed heavily as the armor on his arms and upper sides receded away until only a simple gloved hand remained. "Never...gonna t-touch them...ever." He wheezed out, stumbling away from the body.

Red landed near to him with a thud. "Is he dead?" He questioned, peering over the humans shoulder.

"Dead once more. Hopefully this time for good." Jack answered. "Now take me to everyone. I can't feel my body." He groaned in annoyance when he suddenly heard a shifting behind him. "You gotta be shitting me." He complained, turning to see Reaver's form slowly standing once more.

"Grah gurrra harckw." Reaver gurgled out, what remained of his tongue hanging out of the hole Jack had blasted through his head. Pointing a single claw at Jack he began to wobble forward, a black orb appearing at the tip of his finger. "Die!" He shouted in a slur. A piercing beam leaped from his finger tip towards the weakened Jack.

It drew closer as time slowed for the human. He could see Red shouting something at him, moving to dive into the way. He could feel the three inside of his head screaming at him to move. Try as he might his body just didn't have the energy left to dodge out of the way. "Well this sucks." He thought to himself as the beam reached just in front of him...

Before touching him a purple shield flew into life around him, bouncing the shot into the air and away from the human. Twilight appeared above a crumbled building, her mane flying in the breeze as dark purple energy leaped from her eyes. With clenched fists her wings spread open wide. "You will not be killing my bodyguard!" She said, energy building around her horn. A crown appeared on her head with a multi-pointed star. Pointing her hands upwards from her sides a star appeared behind her illuminating her form. Her voice boomed in a commanding tone "I COMMAND YOU TO DIE!" the star shattered behind her, the pieces flying past her and striking into Reaver. Chunks of his body tore from his form as he howled in pain. Circling her hands in a half circles Twilight let out a chant, pointing a single finger at Reaver's mess of a body. "Heaven's above let loose your rage to purge the lands of filth!" Flicking her finger up then back down at Reaver a thunderous boom echoed through the air. The sky seemed to split in two as a waterfall of purple light fell from above onto the dracolich's form.

"RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Reaver screeched in a death throe. His body disappeared in the blinding light. Any darkness that left him being obliterated in a moment.

Soon the light ceased and other pained screams could be heard around the city but they were taken over quickly by a victory cry from the citizens that survived. Jack and Red couldn't help look at the princess in stunned silence. Both flinched slightly when she turned her gaze on them. Striding confidently forward Twilight approached the tired human, a scowl on her face as if looking at something annoying. Jack began to worry, rubbing the back of his head. "Uhhh, nice light show there princess." He said weakly. "oof." He grunted as she suddenly threw herself into his chest. Instinctively he wrapped his arms around her body feeling her shake slightly. "Hey now, what's wrong?" He soothed, stroking at her mane.

Looking up Twilight revealed tears streaking down her face. "I was so worried for you. You rushed in to save us again and then I saw you take him down but I felt something was wrong a-and..." She began to word vomit out at him before breaking down further into tears.

Shaking his head Jack gently squeezed her tighter. "Shhh, shhh, shhh. Don't worry at all. Thanks to you everything's ok. You became the hero of the day in the end." He soothed. Soon though he felt his legs give out from under him making him drop to the surprise of Twilight and Red who had been silently watching the exchange.

"Jack!" Twilight squeaked in surprise. Quickly moving she took hold of him  to keep his head from hitting the ground. "Red, take us to the southern gate. It's where everyone is." She ordered.

Silently the dragon picked them both up, placing them on his back before taking off to the chosen destination. In no time the trio landed near makeshift tents full of dragons and other species that had visited at the time. Hopping off Twilight took Jack into one of the tents while Red shrank to fit inside. The tent held the rest of the elements, Spike, and Ember who rushed over to embrace Red. "Thank the gods you are still alive." Ember said, burying her face into her mates chest.

"Same could be said of you." Red chuckled, grasping her tightly.

The others surrounded Twilight and Jack as he was laid down on a cot. "Oh my gosh. Is he ok?" Fluttershy asked, looking over his body.

"Please tell me that nasty guy is gone." Applejack pleaded. She stepped back when Fluttershy needed room to look over Jack's head.

Twilight sighed before sitting on a cot next to them. "He should be ok just passed out from overexertion, his specialty. As for that monster...let's just say I used up more magic then I've had to in a while." She explained, looking to the side so as not to see any of their expressions.

A groan came from Jack as he woke half up. "She was angry and it was hot." He muttered, passing out once again.

The others gave small chuckles at his response while Twilight was blushing deeply. Eventually Fluttershy gave a nod of approval before telling them "He will be fine. Like Twilight had said he just pushed himself to hard. For now let's let them rest at least for a little bit." She pushed the others lightly out of the tent while waving goodbye to her friend. She even got Red and Ember to leave with little argument.

Soon it was just Twilight and a quiet Jack resting with a few others scattered off on the other side of the room. Laying in silence Twilight looked around until gently she moved her cot next to Jacks. Turning on her side she took in his appearance, noting the few scratches across his face yet also how calm he seemed in his sleep. "You really are an amazing individual." She said aloud, smiling softly.

"And you are a fantastic magic user." Jack replied softly, shocking her as he looked her in the eyes. "What? Thought I'd miss the chance to have a private conversation for once with you?" He questioned, smirking at her reaction.

Stammering slightly Twilight took a moment to gather herself. "I thought you'd be asleep for a little longer. What with fighting another crazy enemy once more." She said. She gained a self-conscious look before asking "Did I really look hot when I was angry?"

Giving a little chuckle at her question Jack brushed a bit of her hair behind an ear. "Oh absolutely. Ya know, if it wasn't for the situation I would have asked you out but well..." He answered, gesturing to his slightly bruised body. "Kinda a bit of work to move at the moment."

Giving her own giggle Twilight leaned her head against his, taking care not to poke him with her horn. "Maybe once we get back we can make that more official?" She asked shyly.

Narrowing his eyes while his smile turned mischievous. "Oh? Getting thoughts already running through your mind?" He teased.

Rolling her eyes Twilight looked at him before taking on a stern face. "I command you to take me out on a date." She ordered before breaking out into a blushing giggle.

Awkwardly saluting from his side Jack replied "As you command my princess." Resting an arm across her side and tugging her slightly closer.

Wiggling into his chest Twilight sighed contently. "I won't lie...I kind of like the sound of being your princess." She mumbled, her eyes closing.

Giving a hum Jack stroked the back of her head. "I'm more then willing to say it more often." He said, his own eyes closing as sleep took over them both.

Neither noticed the group hanging just outside of the flaps to the tent, watching and listening to everything that happened. They all gave soft "Awww." at the display before dispersing to their own tents to rest after the whole ordeal.
> Under Sparkling Sky
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack rose slowly from his cot, the sounds of construction and people filling the air. “Mmnh, guess no sleeping in anymore.” He grumbled, shifting to let his feet touch the cold dirt below. Looking around the tent had emptied significantly since the battle three days prior. The girls hadn’t allowed Jack to leave placing him on what they called ‘tent arrest’ until he could stand fully again by himself. “Little excessive but I know it’s because they care.” He mumbled, standing slowly.

“Think you’re recharged enough?” Lucky questioned, hovering around his view in a miniaturized form.

“Well only one way to know really.” The human replied, spreading his arms to the side to help balance as he took a gentle step forward. When he didn’t fall he took another then another until slowly he began to walk around his cot at a slowed pace. “What do you guy’s think? Solid enough or still stay down?” He asked the ones in his head with a small laugh.

Scorch and Lucky held up fake ten cards at his walk around the cot while Brave shook his head. “You’re fine. You’ve healed up the energy you spent fighting Reaver.” He complained, giving a small growl before turning his head away.

“Wittle puddy cat’s gwumpy from getting the zoomies?.” Scorch teased, a loud laugh escaping him.

The Omegas and Scorch began to argue and tease each other while Jack zoned them out as he made his way towards the tent flaps. Reaching a hand out he was about to pull them open when they suddenly ripped to the sides revealing Twilight. “Oh! What are you doing up? We told you to rest.” She questioned, pressing close up to him with a cute puff of her cheeks at the taller man

Raising his hands in a ‘woah’ motion Jack smiled at her while taking a step back. “Hey now, can’t you see? I’m walking on my own now so I can finally join the land of the living again.” He chuckled.

Twilight gave a scoff at the statement, walking slowly around the man with a calculating eye. “Hmmm, I suppose you do look healthy…” She muttered, scooping an arm into her own. “But just to be safe you can’t leave my side as we walk around.” She said, a blush on her face.

Giving a low chuckle Jack smiled at her. “Is that an order?” He asked, cocking his head to the side.

Nodding her head quickly like a child's she smiled up at him. “A direct order from your princess!” She confirmed, stressing the ‘your’ part.

Shaking his head he gave a gesture towards the flap of the tent. “Then shall we meet the world together?” He suggested, taking steps towards the exit. Pulling the flap light flooded across his form, a breeze blowing softly in the air. Taking in a deep breath Jack looked over the environment in front of him. Dragons flew through the air, carrying lumber and large stones to destinations around. A small market sat off to the side where supplies were traded or bought although most were giving away without any requests of payment to help those in need. A few of the dragons that spotted Jack gave waves with toothy smiles towards him. Apparently while he had been resting word had gotten around that he was one of the big players that stopped the monster responsible for the whole situation.

“The groups relaxing in a location near here, Apparently it’s a popular hot spring that has magical properties with it.” Twilight said on seeing Jack looking around for the others. “Come on, I’ll take you there.” She added, tugging at his arm as she moved away from the gate.

The two traveled through the land after gaining the help from a personal guard attached to Ember. Riding on the dragon Twilight held onto Jack from behind as they flew through the air. The cracked ground below rushed by but before long soon turned into lush greenery. The smells of flowers filled the air adding a sweetness to the world. The dragon circled over a large section of land that had been cleared of trees. Landing one could easily see buildings scattering the location with steaming pools near said buildings. One in particular caught Jack’s attention. Resting just on top a set of rocks was a familiar red dragon, sprawled out. The princess and her bodyguard walked slowly towards the pool near the red dragon. Turning the corner Jack came to see Spike relaxing next to the others, all of them with their backs turned towards him.

Twilight yelled out to them “I have the man of the hour here!” Drawing their attention. She pulled at Jack’s arm, trying to get him towards the pool faster but as they got closer Jack started to resist more and more. “What gives Jack? You can’t relax if you don’t get into the water.” She complained, turning to look at the man only to be surprised.

“Girls, I’m sorry but I can’t join you all if you are all naked.” He apologized loudly so they could hear, a heavy blush covering his face as he turned his face away with a hand over his eyes.

Ember grabbed a large bottle near her, taking a deep swig. “Just get in here you big baby! They all have the hots for you anyways so it’s not like they don’t want you to see them after all!” She shouted with a slightly drunk laugh as the girls in the water minus Fluttershy and Spike sputtered in shock and embarrassment.

Jack was going to shout his stance once more when a pair of wet, clawed hands gripped his shirt lightly. “Don’t worry about it babe. Me and Shy have already told them how you are and I’m sure they just want you to relax.” Spike soothed, feeling the man tense then relax in his hands. “Now hurry up and get in.” He cheekily added, ripping the shirt upwards while his tail threw Jack’s pants downwards.

Stiffening at the sudden loss of clothing Jack turned slowly to look at the half lidded dragon smiling at him with a wagging tail. Leaning close with a scowl he gripped Spike’s cheeks with one hand pulling him close. “The moment I can comfortably get it up I’m mounting you.” He growled.

“Oh please do.” Spike purred, pecking his mate’s lips. “Now hop in. Twilight wants her turn to sit close to you and the others have questions.” He added, putting on a fake commanding voice as he and a heavily blushing Twilight dragged Jack closer to the edge.

“Before we forget!” Twilight shouted in awkwardness. Snapping her fingers Jack’s briefs disappeared as they pulled him into the water.

Surfacing slowly to the point half his face was above the water Jack looked at the two giggling siblings. “They're lucky they're cute…” He grumbled mentally. He perked up when he felt arms wrap around from behind him. Looking up he saw Fluttershy smiling down at him like a loving mother. “I suppose this is ok…” He mentally corrected himself. Standing up he found his waist still below water. “Sheesh, can’t a guy get slowly into a bath. I thought I was supposed to take things slow.” He said, stretching slightly. With a flick of his hand the steam collected around his body to further obscure and block anyone's view to look at him.

Soft ‘awwws’ echoed from the girls and Spike. Ember gave a snort at the show before beckoning for him to get closer. “Come on sit with me. I’ll keep these harpies away from you.” She teased, taking another drink from the bottle that Jack figured was liquor

Giving a shake of his head Jack reached towards the still giggling siblings. Picking them up he walked to the edge of the water, sitting down and placing them both in his lap. With a gesture Fluttershy quickly moved through the water to lean next to him, sighing in contentment. “Sorry but I don’t want to tread on other’s mates' comfort.” He explained, gesturing with his chin towards the relaxing Red. He could see the dragon had an eye slightly open to peek at him before a small smile broke on his face, shifting to hide it.

Rainbow floated by in the water, slowly paddling with her wings. “Done being a playpony or still going to show off your growing herd?” She asked, jabbing at him verbally.

“Oh hush you. I’ll get to you soon. I know the rest of you already figured out the order to approach me.” He teased back much to their explosive blushes. “Not exactly hard since you all tried to see so much during that drinking slumber party we had so long ago.” He added, chuckling while squeezing Spike and Twilight closer to him.

“I suppose it can’t be helped. You are quite the catch after all.” Rarity complimented, twirling a curl of hair. “But do not think we all can be easily swayed just with sweet words.” She shot at him.

Applejack gave a chuckle. “You’ve put in plenty of work already at least to show you ain’t backing down.” She said, stretching muscular arms above her head.

Shifting his grip around Twilight’s waist, pulling her tightly against him he gave a wolfish smile towards the others. “You already know I don’t really have a lot of experience. In fact the amount I’ve gained being here almost doubles the amount of dates I’ve had and also triples the amount of partners I actually have taken to bed.” He explained, scratching under Spike’s chin. “I’m also not dumb enough to miss clear signals of interest thus squandering them.” He finished. “Though I imagine some of you are getting antsy for your dates. Now ask your questions.” He commanded lightly.

Pinkie hopped up and down on an inflatable donut. “Oh oh! Me first, What do you plan to do after we get back? Will you go hunting for more bad guys?” She flooded out before anyone else could ask anything.

Flexing his shoulders while sinking slightly further into the water. “Nah, there’s guards already hunting for bad guys for me. I also have a few people here that are getting pulled into a special group to keep something like what happened here from repeating.” He said but perked up as if remembering something. Turning to Ember he nodded “With your permission of course.” He fixed, doing his best to show respect towards the tipsy Dragonlord.

Snorting Ember waved a clawed hand. “Red’s already got twenty individuals lined up. I’ve also sent my approval of the plan to your other leaders and to some trusted power players in other nations to pull other races easier.” She replied.

“What about training? Any special plans that maybe we could join in on?” Rainbow questioned, standing up finally and shaking out her wings.

Jack gave a harsh single laugh at the question. “Training yes. Join me? Absolutely not. Don’t want to harm you somehow.” He answered, shaking his head slowly while smiling. Shooting a hand up as she went to complain he explained why. “Unless you think you can move from a standing position like a lightning bolt or have the strength to hold up the weight of the sky then no I don’t think you can handle my type of training.” His voice held a firm but gentle tone to it that eased Rainbow down immensely.

Pouting slightly she folded her arms over her small bust. “Fine, guess I’ll just have to get strong on my own.” She whined, trying to get final say on the talk.

“What kind of magic have you learned?” Twilight inquired, looking at the man slightly behind her. A note pad could be seen above the steam.

Leaning back Jack hummed. “Couldn’t really tell you. All I know is it’s been able to keep me alive and the rest of you safe. But if I may make a small request. I’ll answer more questions later but I’d like a little alone time with Twilight here.” He requested. “I did sort of promise to have a date after I got better.” He added sheepishly.

Ember snorted, her tail rising out of the water to point to a walled section a small distance off from the pool they were in. “That ones for private couples to use. Go wild, just don’t get too much fluid in it if you catch my meaning.” She offered, giving a laugh.

The two blushed at the joke before rising out of the water, Spike having moved out of the way along with Fluttershy. As Jack lifted himself out of the pool he faintly heard Pinkie Pie mumble “What I wouldn’t give for a piece of that cake right now.” Followed by Rarity agreeing.

“Little horn dogs are what they are.” He thought to himself.

The two made their way into the section finding a simple pool waiting for them. Each took a side of the pool, their legs lightly brushing each other. Twilight coughed into her hand with a heavy blush on her features. “Soooo, how are you feeling?” She asked, trying to break the ice.

Chuckling at the attempt Jack leaned forward, taking one of her legs onto his knees. Massaging it as he spoke he smiled at her. “Relax princess. I don’t bite, well… unless you tell me too.” He soothed, laughing lightly at his joke. When Twilight giggled with him he continued. “Tell ya what. How about we use this chance for you to examine me? We already know a lot about each other mentally but we’ve never really had a physical examination.” He offered, catching her attention. Putting her leg down he switched to the other one. “Anything you want to look at or question go for it. That should help you ease up right?” He soothed.

Twilight perked up at the offer. A notepad floated from out of thin air as a sparkle filled her eyes. “Anything?” She asked to confirm what she had heard.

Giving a laugh at her one eighty Jack nodded. “Just keep the poking to a minimum ok?” He replied.

Twilight lunged towards his laughing form as her examination started. Her fingers worked over his head, shifting and twisting his hair. “Hair follicles appear to be close to ours but slightly different. Not made to grow as long or thick.” She muttered to herself, shifting lower. Her eyes locked with his. “Pupils move the same but seem to be smaller orbs than our own. Added note, very nice to stare into.” She continued, pecking his cheek with a kiss. Her stiffness was visibly relaxing. Her fingers trailed over his lips, taking in the softness and writing on the cresses he had from the laugh lines.

“Maybe a more thorough exam for that part could work?” Jack suggested, lightly holding onto her chin. The two connected in a kiss, their mouths opening to accept the other. Pulling away he took pride in her dazed state.

Shaking herself back to the present Twilight muttered something he couldn’t catch as the notepad was scribbled on quickly. She moved further down, taking in his muscles. Even having a moment to just press her nose into the crook of his neck, taking in his scent. “So this is what a male one is attracted to smells like?” She thought quietly to herself, her hands trailing further down till they connected with the water. Jolting a bit she looked down, the steam blocking view. “Um, could you sit on the ledge for me…” She trailed off with her request.

Chuckling Jack shifted out of the water to sit on the edge of the spa. “Again, keep the poking to a minimum. And take your time. No rush needed.” He soothed once more as his legs parted, showing her what she had wanted to see.
> Exams (CLOP)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight couldn't help stare. I mean come on now! She had read all kinds of medical books of anatomies of creatures and species across the world but none looked even remotely close to what was in front of her. "It's...safe to get a closer look right?" She asked cautiously, glancing up at her partner.

Chuckling deeply Jack nodded. "It has a few great reviews for it so don't worry about a thing." He teased lightly, chuckling once more with that easy smile of his. His legs swinging lightly in the pools water on either side of her.

She couldn't help watch as his penis bounced with his laughter. Licking her lips Twilight raised a finger and slowly ran it up the length of his shaft. The notepad scribbled further as she examined him. "Shape similar to average pony's but curved top instead of a flare." She said aloud, wrapping her fingers around the shaft. When he jolted at her touch she looked to him with nervous eyes.

"Don't worry, just know it's sensitive to stimulation even as light as grabbing it. Especially the head." He explained, smiling with a small blush of his own growing. He rested his hands behind him to support his weight.

Nodding and writing what he had told her down Twilight got closer to the object in her hands, her modest bust almost touching it. With a look of wonder she ran her fingers over his rod, taking minor enjoyment at it's twitching and Jack's little jolts and breathing. Leaning down she gave a small sniff, finding it rather enjoyable. "Ok...I'm going to l-lick it." She stuttered, opening her mouth to let her tongue out. With a slow motion she dragged it across the tip, finding the taste weird but not unenjoyable. With paced motion she wrapped her lips around the tip and jerked in drawn out motions. "Ok, the book said to swirl around the top especially." She thought to herself as she worked her tongue.

Jack for his part gave moans of encouragement, running a hand through her damp hair that hung around her shoulders. "You're doing great so far. Just make sure to watch any teeth ok. That's a generally frowned upon thing in this situation." He coached, scratching behind one of her ears as it flicked.

Growing bold and taking what she said in mind Twilight worked herself deeper down his shaft, her jaw holding itself wider so she wouldn't accidentally graze him with her teeth. Her hands shifted to explore the inside of his legs, running across his toned thighs and heavy sack. getting distracted from the sensations her hands felt she went too far and gagged from feeling him hit the back of her throat. Pulling back she began to cough roughly from the problem.

In one swift motion Jack pulled Twilight from the pool into his lap, rubbing her back to help with the coughing. "Easy. Easy. No need to push past what you can handle." He soothed, holding her tightly as she collected herself.

Embarrassed Twilight pulled herself from his grip. "I'm sorry. I'm sure you'd prefer one of the others more experienced in this sort of thing." She mumbled, looking away from the human. "I probably can't satisfy you as well as they can..." She added, moving to leave only to feel a tug at her hand. She looked back at the human only to have his lips connect with hers, her body being slowly pushed down by the larger figure. When they separated she stammered "W-wait, don't you want one Fluttershy or Spike to help with th- EEP!" She suddenly jolted as a pleasurably shock went through her body as a hand from Jack settled between her legs.

In a low rumble Jack looked up at her as he dragged a tongue across her ribs close to her breasts. "I don't remember asking them to join me here now do I?" He questioned, another hand working up to stroke her cheek. Shifting his body to settle between her legs Jack's voice still sat in a deep tone. "What I want is to experience a mixing of pleasure with Twilight Sparkle. Not Spike. Not Fluttershy. Not even the other princesses." He said, slipping a hand to gently massage her breasts while the other slipped a finger into her folds.

Twilight couldn't help arch her back as Jack took control of the situation. She could think to worry about satisfying him as he gripped her with his strong hands keeping any ability to leave locked away except for using magic.

And right now her mind was as far away from using magic as possible.

Her hands moved to his, making him squeeze or caress her hard. Her hips moved on their own as she ground into his hand. "Ahh, ahh, yes! I'm sorry for doubting. Please make me feel better." She moaned. Another finger slipped inside of her as his thumb found its place on her clit. "Ahhhhh!" She moaned loudly, an orgasm rocking through her body. Slumping on the ground she breathed heavily as he removed his hand. "I....I have never came that fast before." She breathed, her chest rising and falling quickly.

Jack leaned himself next to her, grabbing her hand comfortingly. "If that was too much and you feel too tired just say so ok?" He instructed, his other hand moving her mane out of her face.

"I think I can keep going." She said, gulping slightly as he shifted his form to above her. His hands wrapping around her thin legs. As she looked at him between her Twilight realized just how much larger this man was compared to her. If she didn't have her magic she knew she wouldn't be able to push him off if he was an assailant.

Angling himself at her entrance Jack slowly pressed his tip against it. Looking at the mare he gave a stern look. "Twilight, it's clear you are a virgin and this is a big step. I want to be absolutely sure you are ok with doing this as when I put it in there's no undoing what has happened." He warned, with a clear image of care for her.

Nodding her head as she threw the bad thought away she rested her head against the ground, looking up into the air. "I'm sure of it..." She said, reaching a hand out for one of his own. Finding it almost instantly.

With a breath Jack slowly began to push forward, taking his time to make things as comfortable as possible. He felt resistance, having to push slightly harder to get his penis inside her. He had almost gotten the tip fully in when he felt Twilight's hand squeeze extremely hard and shake almost violently. Immediately he stopped and pulled himself out. "Ok, we are done here." He commanded, standing up while waving a hand to pull two towels towards them.

"Wa-wait, why are we stopping?" Twilight questioned, looking at the man as he wrapped a towel around his waist.

Looking at her with a small grimace Jack pointed at her body. "We are stopping because of that." He simply stated.

Twilight looked down wondering what he was talking about only to see her body shaking uncontrollably. "Wahhh?" She mumbled to herself.

"you aren't actually ready for that next step." Jack explained, taking the second towel and gently placing it over her body, taking note of how she twitched at his touch. "Before you argue about how you want to continue, just know I will not try again no matter how much you ask." He added quickly after as she opened her mouth. "We will return to the others and enjoy the rest of the day with them.

She felt devastated. Not at Jack but at herself for not being ready after leading him up to this point. Her magic began to flare up as a teleport spell filled her head only to find it not working. Opening her eyes she found her had wrapped a hand around her horn, cutting the magic off. Tears welled up in her eyes. "I-I'm so sorry. I knew I couldn't match up with the others." She apologized.

She was cut off when Jack placed his lips once more over her own. Pulling away slowly he placed a finger over hers as an added piece. "For starters stop comparing yourself to others. I have grown to enjoy Twilight the book loving princess who leads the elements of harmony. Not Twilight who puts on acts to be like other mares." He lectured. "Secondly, It's important to not only trust your partner but also trust yourself. I know you care about me but you still have problems involving yourself when it comes to taking this next step. This could be a fear or just simple not feeling it yet." He continued, kissing the top of her head just under her horn. "I'm not stopping the whole adding you to my herd process. I'm just stopping us stepping over lines you aren't comfortable crossing yet. We can experiment and test things, ya know build you up to the point. At your pace." He finished.

Twilight's lip quivered as she sniffled. Leaning in to hug the human she let him carry her out of the pool back to the others. Before any could tease or ask how it went he gave a gentle shake of his head with a soft smile. Fluttershy and Spike along with Rarity and Ember caught on quickly, changing topics easily for the others to understand. They spent the rest of the day chatting and relaxing all while Jack never let go of Twilight's form in his arms.