When a trio of escaped criminals find their way into Equestria, Sunset calls on an old friend to help face this new threat.
When a prison transport comes to a violent conclusion near Canterlot High, three dangerous convicts inadvertently escape through the school's portal and into Equestria. Taking on powerful new forms to compliment their already deadly nature, Twilight turns to Sunset for help in dealing with this foreign threat. Sunset quickly realizes the scope of what they are dealing with and calls upon Hunter to help her save her original world from these dangerous new enemies. Along the way, Sunset begins to realize just how human she has become and sees the fallout when the human world and Equestria collide.
It was well past eleven in the evening during one of the worst storms the city had seen in recent years. A prison transport bus, on route to a maximum security compound, entered the final leg of its tense journey as it passed through Canterlot. The driver guided the vehicle through the heavy rain, eyes strained as he caught brief glimpses of the highway between swipes of the wipers. The officer riding shotgun pulled out his phone as a notification sounded.
“Damn it.” He sighed. “Pull off at the next exit, there’s an accident ahead and the northbound lanes are closed. We’re going to have to take side streets until we get past the clog.”
“Of course.” The driver made a silent curse. “Might as well make this trip as awful as possible.”
“We’re almost done.” The officer rose and patted the driver’s shoulder as he headed to the back of the bus. “Hey.” He called to the three armed guards. “We’re taking a little detour.”
“Yes sir.” One of the guards acknowledged, not taking his eyes of off the three men chained to the seats before them.
“I don’t mind the scenic route.” The hulking, bearded prisoner at the back of the bus added.
“We don’t need your two cents.” Another guard said harshly.
“Easy.” The officer calmed him. “Enjoy it while you can, Ridgeback.” He retorted, a mild amount of mocking in his voice. “It’s going to be the last bit of the outdoors you see for long, long time.”
The bus left the freeway and began moving though the local neighborhood, wheels sloshing through the partially flooded streets. There was little to no activity on the roads, which only served to make the red lights last that much longer as the nighttime timers held for extended periods. The silence on the bus came to an abrupt end as the left, front wheel suddenly sank into the ground as the saturated terrain beneath the asphalt opened up into a sinkhole. The officer and guards were tossed towards the front while the chained prisoners remained held fast. Using the sudden momentum, the powerful Ridgeback wrenched his arms up and snapped the chains holding him to the seat.
“He’s free!” One of the guards yelled as he tried to steady himself and aim his weapon. Ridgeback was on him in an instant, bringing his cuffed hands down in a massive axe blow that crushed his skull. He scooped up the gun and tossed it back to the hook nosed, bespectacled prisoner at his right.
“Skyfall, heads up!” Ridgeback called as he unleashed his brute strength on the next guard.
“Thanks!” Skyfall caught the gun and spun it around, aiming it at his chains. A single round shattered the binds and he rose, heading over to the last captive. “Hold still, Stinger.” Another shot freed the shaggy haired, wild eyed man.
“Awesome!” He jumped up; even with his feet in manacles he bounded up the bus like an animal and helped Ridgeback overpower the final guard and presiding officer.
Using the remaining guns, they blew away the rest of their restraints and hurried off the bus; the driver already dead from the crash. “Let’s go.” Ridgeback pointed in the distance to the Canterlot High School grounds. “We can hold there until we figure our next move.”
“Right, the cops will be swarming this place within the half hour.” Skyfall noted as they began their sprint. The dangerous trio easily scaled the wall and took refuge at the base of a large statue as sirens began to sound in the distance.
The rain pounded on Sunset’s window as she slumbered but she immediately sat up at the faint, but distinct sound of her Equestrian tome humming. She ran her thumb across her tired eyes and went to her bookshelf; opening to the last page she found a message from Twilight.
“Sunset, something terrible happened last night and I need to speak to you immediately. Please get here as fast as you can.” –Twilight-
“Oh no.” Sunset looked at the clock and saw that it was only 5:28 in the morning. “No time to wake the others.” She rushed about her room, getting dressed and grabbing her umbrella. Having gotten her driver’s license over the past year, she jumped into her car and traveled to the school as fast as possible. Pulling into the front lot, she ran into the school grounds and checked the area to make sure it was clear before moving to the statue and stepping through the rift between her world and Equestria. Emerging on the other side in her pony form, she fell to all fours and steadied herself as she adjusted to the foreign feeling. She was immediately greeted with a disaster area; the mirror’s room destroyed, the doorway knocked out and a massive hole in the ceiling that opened up into the early morning sky. “Twilight!” She yelled out as she ran through the castle, finding more and more damage including claw marks, torn up flooring and crumbled furniture. “Twilight!”
“Sunset!” Twilight flew up the stairs, the two of them hugging fiercely on sight.
“Twilight, are you alright?”
“I am, but the castle is a wreck.” She informed.
“What happened?” Sunset asked.
“Spike and I were asleep until we heard a loud crash coming from the mirror room.” Twilight began. “We came down the hall but there were these… creatures in the castle. We weren’t ready and they were running wild; all I could do was teleport Spike and I to safety. They rampaged through the castle until finally getting outside; after that, they ran off into the night.”
“Did they… come though the portal? From my world?” Sunset looked back towards the mirror room.
“There's no other explanation.” Twilight said with grim confidence. “That’s why I called you, to see if anything happened at the school.”
“I don’t know.” Sunset admitted. “Whatever happened was in the middle of the night, the school was empty… at least it should have been.” Her mind struggled to think. “Let me go back and see what I can find out.”
“Alright.” Twilight nodded. “I’m going to let Princess Celestia and the others know what is going on.”
“Okay.” Sunset doubled back. “Be back soon!” She darted back through the portal and into her own world. With her possessions returned, she took out her phone and called her own Twilight. After several moments, a sleepy voice answered her call. “Twilight, it’s Sunset. Listen, I know it’s early but I just got done talking to… well… the other you; something accessed the portal to Equestria last night and trashed the castle. I need you to get online and see if you can find anything that happened near here last night.” She received an affirmative and hung up, proceeding to investigate the area herself for any possible clues. After a fruitless forty minutes of poking around, Sunset moved outside the grounds and further up the main street. She eventually happened upon a group of cop cars circled around a damaged bus. The area was taped off and police were allowing cars to pass one at a time through a controlled lane. Observing the colors, she knew that wasn’t a school bus and her stomach began to sink as her mind put the pieces together. Almost on cue, her phone rang and she answered. “Yeah.” Sunset listened as Twilight confirmed her gut feeling. “Okay, thanks Twilight. I’m going to be gone for a while, tell the others I’ll be back when I can.” She hung up again and headed back for the school.
Passing back through the portal, Sunset returned to Equestria and galloped downstairs to find Twilight. She heard multiple voices coming from the map room and discovered her friend’s counterparts gathered around the expansive table.
“Sunset.” Twilight went to her and gestured to the others. “You remember every pony, right?”
“Yeah.” She nodded with a friendly wave. “Good to see you all.”
“Likewise, darling.” Rarity motioned for her to join them.
“So, did you find out anything?” Twilight asked as they joined the circle.
“Yes, and it isn’t good.” Sunset sighed heavily. “Those creatures are humans from my world, not ordinary ones either, they’re criminals.”
“Criminals.” Applejack repeated. “You mean thieves and the like?”
“Worse.” Sunset shook her head. “These guys were on their way to a maximum security prison. They’re violent and extremely dangerous.” She looked across the group of friends. “Apparently their bus went off the road last night, I saw it myself. My version of Twilight researched news reports and confirmed that the police searched for them but they just seemed to disappear without a trace. They crashed near the school, they must have gone there to hide and accidentally found the portal to Equestria.”
“If that’s the case, then every creature is in danger.” Fluttershy spoke up.
“Then we need to track them down and stop them.” Rainbow Dash punched the tabletop. “Let’s get a move on.”
“But Rainbow.” Pinkie Pie interjected. “These guys sound like really bad news; and if they’re from Sunset’s world then we don’t know anything about them.” She pointed out in a rare moment of focused thought.
“Pinkie’s right.” Twilight nodded. “I couldn’t make them out in the dark, but they’ve taken on some pretty mean forms. We need more information.”
“That’s all well and good.” Applejack came in. “But if they’re dangerous, then the more time we spend sitting around means the more time they spend doing Celestia knows what out there.”
“Hold it.” Sunset cut in. “I… I know someone that can help.”
“Who?” Twilight asked.
“His name is Hunter.” Sunset recalled her friend and their adventure together. “He helped stop a creature that was running loose in our city. We were at odds at first but he’s actually a good guy; he works for the government as a kind of monster hunter.” She explained. “I know he’s human too, but something like this is right up his alley.”
“Are you sure he’ll help?” Rarity queried.
“If I can reach him.” Sunset nodded. “He left me a number to call in case of an emergency; and this certainly fits the bill.”
“Then please try.” Twilight set her hoof to Sunset’s shoulder. “I’ll update the Princesses and she can have soldiers begin patrolling the countryside.”
“Okay, just sit tight until I get back.” Sunset again returned to the portal and traveled back to her world. School was already in session so she slipped away into the parking lot and headed home. Rushing up to her room, she went to her bookshelf and pulled down a keepsake box which held her most valued and personal items. From it, she pulled out the card that Hunter had given her before they parted ways and nervously pulled out her phone. Sitting on the bed with a long exhale, she dialed the number and waited patiently while it rang. After nearly eight rings she heard the other end pick up.
“H…Hunter?” She asked.
“Heya, Bacon Braids.” Hunter’s voice answered with a distinct joy. “Been a while.”
Sunset smiled at the sound of his voice and her familiar nickname. “Yeah, over a year now.”
“I take it this isn’t a social call?” He continued.
“No, I need your help.” She confessed.
“What happened?” Hunter asked.
“Three prisoners escaped from custody after their transport crashed last night. They were near the school and they… they found the portal to Equestria.” Sunset’s tone grew dark. “They’ve become monsters and are running free; Equestria is in real danger and you were the only one I could think of to help with this.”
“Okay.” Hunter said without hesitation. “I’ll be there ASAP. On the way I’ll look into police records and find out just who we’re dealing with.”
“Thank you, Hunter.” Sunset said with all sincerity.
“Hey, I said I’d come running no matter what.” He laughed. “I’ll see you soon.”
“Right, bye.” As she hung up she felt a wave of relief wash over her knowing that help was on the way. Sunset waited for the school day to end before returning to the grounds and traveling to Equestria once more. As soon as she passed through the portal she found Spike working diligently to clean up the mess.
“You’re back.” Spike set his broom down and flew to her.
“Yeah, where’s Twilight?” She asked.
“In Canterlot with the others; they’re meeting with the Princesses.” He informed.
“Okay, I’ll just wait here for them to get back.” She looked about. “Do you… need some help?”
“I’d appreciate it.” Spike admitted. “This place is a mess.”
“Sure, no problem.” Sunset put herself to work alongside the tiny dragon. A few hours passed before Twilight and her friends returned; they found Sunset and Spike cleaning up the library.
“Sunset.” Twilight smiled. “Thank you, how long have you been here?”
“A little while.” Sunset finished putting some books back on the shelf with her magic. “I got in touch with Hunter, he’s on his way.”
“That’s great news.” Twilight motioned for them to follow. “Let’s get caught up.” The eight of them gathered around the map table once again to share information.
“So, what did Celestia say?” Sunset inquired.
“She’s going to send out her best stallions to look into the matter.” Twilight detailed. “So far, there haven’t been any reports from any of the outlying areas between here and Canterlot.”
“They aren’t used to their new forms yet.” Sunset surmised. “They’re probably still in shock and trying to figure out what’s going on.”
“Well then.” Rarity focused her attention on Sunset. “If this Hunter fellow is going to be helping us, you should tell us about him?”
Sunset let out a half laugh. “Hunter is… pretty unique.” She considered how to describe him. “He’s a trained soldier; he works for an agency that deals with supernatural disturbances and creatures. When it comes to combat he knows his stuff but socially… he can be a bit much.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“Well, he’s got a mouth on him and he doesn’t hold back when it comes to speaking his mind. On top of that, he loves to screw with people; it comes off like he doesn’t care but he really does, you just need to look past all the show he puts on.” Sunset turned her eyes to Applejack. “Oh, and he’s got this weird thing about the Applejack from my world.”
“What kind of thing?” Applejack asked with great suspect.
“I honestly don’t know.” Sunset admitted with a light laugh. “Every time I thought they were going to kiss they wound up trying to kill each other. Just… be prepared.”
“Can’t wait.” Applejack rolled her eyes.
“He sounds like more of a hoof full than the monsters.” Pinkie giggled.
“Oh he is.” Sunset nodded with a grin. “But given that we’re dealing with other humans, we could use one of our own to help fight them.” She looked over them with deep concern. “You all need to realize that these aren’t like the creatures you’ve faced before. Humans are a lot different from ponies and there is no telling what these guys are capable of doing.”
“We understand.” Twilight nodded. “We’ll hold until Hunter gets here.”
“Okay.” Sunset headed for the door. “As soon as he arrives I’ll bring him here, I’ll see you later.”
With several farewells from her friends, Sunset returned home; knowing that at this point all she could do was wait.
Sunset remained home from school again the next day, her mind racked with concerned thoughts about what could be going on in her original home. Mostly lying in bed, she drifted in and out of sleep until the early afternoon when her phone chimed. She ran her finger across the screen to see a message notification that read, ‘Look out your window’. She quickly stood and pulled up the blinds, looking down and seeing Hunter waving up at her. Throwing on her shoes, Sunset hurried downstairs and out the front door.
“Hunter.” She went to him with a wide smile; he hugged her and lifted her from the ground as he squeezed for all he was worth.
“Hey, Sunny.” He laughed, pulling a clean 360° spin before letting her down. “I wish the occasion was better, but it’s great to see you again.”
“I know the feeling.” She straightened her hair.
“So, I get to go to another world now?” He asked with surprising calm.
“Yeah.” She nodded. “I know this is a lot to ask but….”
“It’s okay.” He stopped her. “If your friends are in danger then I’ll go where I have to; besides, it’ll give me something to brag about later on in life.”
Sunset chuckled at his typical frivolity in the face of such things. “Then let’s get to the school.” She held up her keys. “I’ll drive.”
“You drive now?” Hunter asked as he followed after her. “They grow up so fast.”
“Shut up and get in.” She shook her head and pointed to the passenger seat. Speeding back to the school, Sunset parked in an out of the way spot and sent a message to Fluttershy asking her to keep an eye on her car while she was away. She and Hunter stood before the statue and prepared to pass through.
“So, how does this work?” Hunter eyed her curiously.
“Well, when you go through you’re going to be transformed into your equivalent form in Equestria.”
“So I get to be a pony?” He smirked.
“I don’t know what you’ll be.” She grinned. “Probably a jack-ass.”
“Ow.” He chortled. “I also notice we aren’t going in armed.”
“We can’t.” She tugged on her shirt. “Non-magical items won’t pass through, not even clothes.”
“Wait, so we come out the other side naked?” His eyes ran up and down her body.
“Whatever you’re picturing, that’s not what it’ll look like.” With a laugh she braced her hand on his back and pushed him through, jumping in after him.
When Sunset appeared on the other side, she paused in shock at what she saw before her. Hunter steadied himself and turned back to see her stare.
“What?” He asked. “Is it that bad?”
“You’re a… hippogriff.” She answered.
Hunter went back to the mirror and looked at himself; a beige cream colored frame accented by soft olive green mane and tail along with sharp amber eyes. He raised his talon and touched his beak, recoiling at the sharpness of his claws. “Okay, this is going to take some getting used to.” He spun back with a smile. “Am I at least cute as far as hippogriffs go?”
“Haven’t met one in the flesh yet, so... sure.” She went to him to get a closer look. “Got to say, not what I was expecting. Let’s find Twilight, take the time to get used to moving around in that form.”
Hunter nodded and began following her through the castle. “So, is Twilight still a borderline neurotic, mad scientist?”
“Well… she isn’t a scientist.” Sunset giggled. “In this world, Twilight is the Princess of Friendship; one of only five Princesses in Equestria.”
“Who are the others?” Hunter inquired.
“Princess Cadence and her daughter Flurry Heart; and Celestia and Luna who are the rulers of Equestria.” Sunset explained.
“Hold on.” Hunter laughed. “Your Principals are the rulers? Man, positions of power don’t translate well to our world do they?”
“Not really.” Sunset shared his amusement. “Listen, I’m glad you’re here but I have to warn you; Equestria is completely different from our world. This world is naturally kind and even though there are monsters and villains that threaten it, on the whole, Equestria is simply more… innocent. All the violence, vulgarity and perversion that bubbles underneath the surface of human society just doesn’t exist here.” She gave him an understanding smile. “I’m used to you, but you’ve got to keep it toned down.”
“Hey, I get it.” Hunter nodded. “First rule of being in a foreign operation zone, don’t introduce elements that may corrupt the local population.” His seriousness quickly dissolved back into playfulness. “Don’t worry, I’ll only embarrass you just enough.”
Sunset rolled her eyes with an unsurprised smirk. “I am so going to regret this.”
They found Twilight and Spike along with a hired crew working on repairs. They excused themselves and joined Sunset and Hunter in a quieter room.
“Hello.” Twilight went to the newcomer and held out her hoof. “You must be Hunter.”
“Somebody has to.” He took her hoof with a smile.
“Thank you for coming.”
“Anything for my side of bacon here.” He patted Sunset’s shoulder and tried to sit in a chair, finding it difficult given his new body.
“What’s bacon?” Twilight whispered over to Sunset.
“I’ll… explain later.” She sighed. “Oh, I’m probably going to be saying that a lot.”
“So, do you want the bad news or the worse news about what we’re dealing with?” Hunter asked honestly.
“Spike.” Twilight turned to her faithful assistant. “Go get the others, they should hear this too.”
“Right. Be back as quick as I can.” Spike flew from the castle and out into Ponyville. While they waited, Twilight brought out some tea sandwiches for them. Soon enough, Spike returned with the rest of the team. Hunter felt a genuine sense of familiarity as he saw them.
“Hunter.” Twilight gestured to her friends. “This is…”
“Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and Applejack.” Hunter rattled off their names. “We’ve… sort of met.”
“Oh, right.” Twilight nodded. “Well, we’re a bit different than the versions of us you know from your world.”
Hunter pointed to Pinkie. “Hyperactive and addicted to sugar.” His talon drifted to Rarity. “Accessory obsessed fashionista.” His claw moved over to Fluttershy. “Quiet and loves animals.” He subsequently pointed to Rainbow Dash. “Loves sports and competition.” He smiled at Applejack. “Hard working with strong family values.”
“Wow.” Pinkie smiled brightly. “He does know us.”
“You may have a few more legs, but you’re the same candy striper I know and love.” He noted with a wink. “I know you don’t really know me, but being around you already feels like home.” He stood from the chair.
“He seems a lot nicer than Sunset told us.” Fluttershy pointed out.
Hunter looked over at Sunset with a raised brow. “What did you tell them about me?”
“Just the truth.” Sunset elbowed him.
“Now why would you do a stupid thing like that?” He asked with a crooked smile as they moved into the map room. “Just for that, I’m sitting next to AJ.” Hunter took a spot beside Applejack and batted his eyes at her. “Hi.” He smiled.
“Guess Sunset wasn’t completely exaggerating.” Applejack lightly pushed him away.
“Hunter, dear.” Rarity called his attention. “What can you tell us about these humans?”
Hunter’s face quickly grew serious as he laid his arms on the table. “There are three of them, all serving life sentences without parole.”
“Life sentences.” Twilight had never heard of such a punishment.
“I’m going to go out on a limb and say that you don’t really have a hardcore prison system here.” Hunter said with confidence. “Basically, these are three extremely dangerous men and the reason they were being transferred was specifically to extradite them to a state that would administer the death penalty.” He saw the looks on their faces sour at the mere mention of the ultimate solution. “They’re killers, among other things.” He said grimly. “The first is Ridgeback; murderer, rapist and drug runner. He worked as an asset for a South American cartel; moving product and people across the border. Indulging in the lifestyle, he got sloppy which is what led to his capture.” He held up two claws. “The second is Skyfall; the assassin for hire. He operated a site on the deep web that offered his services to anyone with the money to pay; unlike other assassins however, he had no limits. Men, women, children, public officials… he didn’t care; he saw it as a challenge. Ironically, he was brought to the attention of the FBI by other assassins who, while killers themselves, held at least some type of moral code about their targets and were sickened by him.” He held up a third claw. “Lastly, there’s Stinger; a serial killer and a cannibal. Stinger is a rare type, always mobile and was wanted in over 30 states having racked up a total of 67 victims; honestly, he’s was more beast than man by the time he was finally brought down. It took over a dozen officers to subdue him and only 9 walked away with their lives.” As he lowered his talon he saw the looks of disbelief on the mare’s faces.
“Sunset, humans like that… exist?” Twilight gave her friend a disheartened look.
“Yeah, they do.” Sunset nodded solemnly.
“Guys like Tirek are bad but…” Rainbow Dash shook her head. “Geez, what makes a creature do things like that?”
“Sunset let me in on how different this world is from mine.” Hunter began. “From what it seems like, you all are fortunate to live in a world without such a broad spectrum of extremes. There are humans in my world that represent the best our species has to offer; and there are some that represent the sheer worst of it all. We’re dealing with the worst and if we don’t stop them… they’re going to do things to your world that it won’t be able to forget.”
“Can you beat them?” Fluttershy asked.
“I’m damn sure going to try.” Hunter looked down at himself. “I’m going to have to get used to fighting in this body.” He glanced over at Sunset. “I’m going to assume you don’t have guns in this world?”
“No. But we do have magic on our side.” She noted.
“Do hippogriffs have magic?” He queried.
“No, but you can fly.” Twilight pointed to his back.
“What?” He looked over his shoulder. “I’ve got wings?”
“You didn’t notice?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“Cut me some slack, I’m still getting used to walking around in this thing.” He felt around for the muscles to control his appendages and spread his wings out. “Alright.” He looked back to the pegasi. “I need a crash course in how these things work.”
“You got it.” Rainbow Dash flew into the air. “Come on, Shy. Let’s take him to flight school.”
“Okay.” Fluttershy joined her in the air.
“Once you get the hang of flying, we’ll travel to Canterlot to see Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.” Twilight and the others followed them outside.
Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy ran through the basics of wing operation, steering, gliding and landing. Hunter, trained to adapt quickly, rapidly picked up the art to the point where he could maneuver on his own. Sunset and the others observed from the ground, watching him improve in real time.
“Well, he’s learning quicker than I did.” Twilight admitted.
Sunset watched as he rolled and flipped in the sky, her smile at the sight faded as she noticed he was rapidly descending right at her. “Whoa! Hey!” She staggered back but Hunter scooped her up in his arms and flew straight up into the clouds. Sunset screamed all the way, only stopping as she felt him slow and hover above the cloud line, all of Equestria before them.
“Hey, I can see my dimension from here.” He grinned at her.
“Down! Now!” Sunset commanded as she looked below from the dizzying height.
“Pssh, this worked for Aladdin.” He grumbled.
“Hunter!” She toned with a stern glare.
“Okay, okay.” With a mild laugh he soared back down and set her gently next to Twilight.
“Awesome job.” Rainbow Dash offered him a high-five.
“Thanks.” He flexed his wings proudly.
“Are you good to go then?” Twilight asked.
“Lead the way, Princess Purple.” He said with a bow.
“Hee hee… Princess Purple.” Pinkie quietly repeated with a giggle.
Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie and Sunset took to the balloon while Hunter and the pegasi flew alongside as they traveled to the Equestrian capitol. Hunter quieted down as he looked over the beautiful landscape, in all his travels around the globe he had never seen anything like Equestria. While the forefront of his mind was enamored by the view, the back of his mind was ever busy trying to figure out how he was going to track down Ridgeback and the others. Skilled as he was, he was out of his element; stripped of the tools of his trade, in a foreign environment and hunting enemies he had little information on. The situation was as atypical as it could be and the gnawing fear of what these brutal men might do to his friend’s world wasn’t easing his nerves.
“Hunter?” Sunset’s voice broke his trance.
Hunter flew over to the basket and clung to the side. “Sorry, my head is literally in the clouds right now.”
Sunset stifled her laugh. “I’m glad you’re getting used to flying, but don’t tire yourself out too quickly.”
“Should I give you the obligatory ‘I can go all night’ line or do you want something with a bit more je ne sais quoi.” He asked with keen smile.
“Keep in mind I can use magic now.” She tapped her horn, setting it aglow.
Hunter shimmied over to Applejack. “Fine, I can always go where my charm is more appreciated. Isn’t that right, my delicate country flower?”
“Nope.” Applejack said shortly, bracing her hoof on his beak and pushing him off the basket. He glided back up and returned to formation with Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy.
“My, he’s nearly as hard to reign in as Pinkie Pie.” Rarity noted with a quaint laugh.
“His manner really seems to drift back and forth.” Twilight added. “I just hope he’s taking this seriously.”
“He is.” Sunset said surely. “More than you think… or at least more than he wants you to think.”
“How can you tell?” Rarity asked.
“It’s hard to explain.” She sighed. “Back when we were fighting, my magic gave me a good look at his life. After I saw it, I started to see what was behind his words and actions. This is just his way of keeping every pony positive; he knows full well how dangerous this is going to get but he doesn’t want us to see that he’s worried, even though I can tell he is.”
“You two certainly seem close.” Twilight observed with a light smile.
“Yeah, you’re like a Hunter expert.” Pinkie pointed out.
“I’m not sure how I feel about that.” Sunset snorted as she watched him mess with Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy.
The majestic city of Canterlot was quite the sight to Hunter. Landing just outside the city limits, the group made a bee line for the castle to meet with the Princesses. Twilight guided them to the throne room where the royal sisters were discussing an upcoming soiree with Fancy Pants and Fluer De Lis.
“Princess Celestia, Princess Luna.” Twilight stepped up to them. “Sorry to interrupt, but we’ve brought Hunter. He’s right…”
“Good afternoon ladies.” Hunter casually strode up beside twilight, Sunset fervently waving her hooves in the background in an attempt to stop him.
Twilight's eyes widened at his lack of formality. “Ah hah ha ha.” She laughed nervously. “Yes, this is… Hunter.”
“Well, it is nice to meet you, Hunter.” Celestia said cordially.
“Likewise.” Hunter grabbed Twilight’s shoulder with a smile. “You didn’t tell me the rulers of your world were drop dead gorgeous.” He could hear Sunset’s hoof slap into her face.
“My word.” Fancy Pants turned his nose up. “Princess, the company you keep always seems to grow more and more uncouth. This one is the most unsavory yet.”
Hunter eyed him. “That’s pretty big talk coming from the Equestrian monopoly guy.”
“It is alright.” Celestia chuckled. “We were warned in advance.”
“You too, huh?” Hunter smiled up at her. “My infamy precedes me.”
“Most assuredly.” Luna agreed.
“Please excuse us, Fancy Pants.” Celestia stepped from her throne. “We do have business to discuss with Twilight and her friends. We will continue this at a later time.”
“Of course, Princess.” Fancy Pants bowed, offering Hunter a disapproving look as they turned to leave.
“Have fun talking about me at the next wine tasting.” Hunter waved.
“Well now, let us speak of this matter in a more private setting.” Celestia used her wing to wave the others over. They walked the castle towards the meeting hall, Luna using her magic to close the large oak doors behind them. The sisters took their spots at the table’s head while the others lined the sides. “Firstly, we must thank you, Hunter.” Celestia gave him a sincere smile. “Answering the call from a world that is not your own is something that cannot be understated.”
“I’m just sorry some of the worst from mine made its way here.” Hunter offered. “Do you have any information on where they may be?”
“Not yet.” Luna came in. “We have dispatched seven teams of our most elite guard but no reports have come back.”
“We are willing to defer the handling of this matter to you, Hunter.” Celestia gestured to him. “Twilight told us that Sunset says you are a professional when it comes to dealing with this type of situation; and given that underneath their new forms they are still human, your insight into how human criminals operate overshadows any knowledge we have.”
“Indeed.” Luna agreed. “We are putting our trust in you to help see Equestria through this unique threat.”
“No pressure, huh?” Hunter smiled.
“What should be our first move?” Twilight asked.
Hunter let out a long breath as he considered their options. “Well we’ve got a few different problems on our hands… er… hooves, whatever. Tracking them down is one thing, but what I’m more worried about is that we don’t know what they’ve become.” He folded his talons on the table. “Normally, I’d have at least some intel on the targets but we’re going in completely blind. That being said, let’s roundtable a little bit.” He looked over the ensemble. “What creatures in this world can use magic?”
“Unicorns, alicorns and a very select few creatures like Discord.” Celestia detailed.
“Twilight, did anything you got a glimpse of resemble any of that?” He asked.
“No.” Twilight shook her head. “They were too big. I can say that one could fly, that’s the one that broke through the roof.”
“Okay, not having to worry about magic is a plus.” Hunter nodded. “Flight though, that one has the farthest reach and could be anywhere by now.”
“Wouldn’t they stick together?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“I don’t think so.” Hunter shook his head. “They helped each other escape, but the type of men they are… they aren’t team players. Stinger is a lone wolf so I'm certain he ran off on his own. That would leave Ridgeback and Skyfall and their M.O.’s and methods don’t mix in the slightest. By now they’ve gone in separate directions…. growing more and more accustomed to whatever new abilities they have.” Hunter let out a mild growl. “Once they get comfortable it’ll be back to business as usual, if that happens then…” He didn’t finish the thought. “We need to focus on Stinger first, when it comes to the rawest threat of the three, he’s the highest priority.”
“You said that he was already more like an animal, even in your world.” Applejack recalled. “I don’t know humans, but Fluttershy and I know about animals.”
“Good point.” Hunter looked to Fluttershy. “How about it, Whispers. You’re a bloodthirsty, wild animal dropped into a new territory. What do you do first?”
“Well.” Fluttershy thought. “Most predators immediately claim a spot that they consider to be safe. After that, they slowly move out in an expanding radius until they become familiar with the area; then they secure food and water and keep others predators out of their new territory.”
“Well, in this case his food is going to be pony.” Hunter noted. “What areas near your hometown fit the bill?”
“I’ll bet my last bit he’s in the Everfree Forest.” Applejack said. “Dark, quiet and right across the way from Ponyville.”
“Oh my gosh!” Pinkie bolted up. “Zecora. She could be in real trouble.”
“Who’s that?” Hunter asked.
“She’s a Zebra that lives in the forest, she’s alone out there.” Fluttershy explained.
“If Stinger is in the forest, then she’s a prime first target for him.” Hunter stood. “It may just be speculation, but with a civilian in the field we don’t have a choice but to sweep the area and extract her.”
“Shall I aid thee?” Luna asked. "My sister and I need not both remain in Canterlot."
“You strong?” Hunter asked bluntly.
“I am the Princess of the night.” Luna proclaimed.
“Sounds awesome, you’re in.” He gave her a thumb up.
“Then I shall remain and await word from our guard.” Celestia looked to her sister with pleading eyes. “Please, be careful. All of you.”
“We will.” Sunset assured as the group of nine moved out.
Hunter, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Luna sped ahead of the balloon to reach the Everfree forest as quickly as possible and make sure Zecora was okay. Fluttershy led them to the sheltered hut deep within the trees only to find it in tatters.
“Oh no!” Fluttershy held her mouth as she landed, eyes welling at the sight.
“Stay here, watch the exterior.” Hunter whispered as he neared the wooden dwelling. The door was off its hinges and the walls showed signs of impact damage. He quickly cleared the small home and returned to the others. “No body and no blood, but there’s a giant hole in the floor. Zecora must have made a run for it.” He informed.
“Do not fear, I am right here.” Zecora’s voice came from the dense tree line.
“Zecora!” Fluttershy ran to her with a hug. “You’re okay.”
“What happened here?” Luna asked.
“The animals were filled with fear, they sensed something drawing near.” Zecora began. “Then the ground did rupture, right beneath my humble structure.” She pointed back to her hut. “A massive insect with a bestial head, the mere sight of it filled me with dread.”
“Well, at least you were able to get away.” Hunter said as he stepped up to her.
“You are new, who are you?” She inquired.
“Hunter.” He shook her hoof. “I’m here to help stop that thing, did you see which way it went.”
“After destroying my home, to the north it did roam.” Zecora gestured northward.
“What’s north of here?” Hunter looked back to the others.
“Sweet Apple Acres!” Rainbow Dash shouted in realization. “Applejack’s family farm.”
“Damn it.” Hunter pointed back the way they came. “Fluttershy, go tell the others the reroute to the farm.” He glanced back at Zecora. “Will you be okay here?”
“I will be fine, see to the Apple family line.” Zecora nodded.
“Right.” Hunter galloped over to Luna and Rainbow Dash. “Lead the way.”
“On it.” Rainbow Dash took point and set them on a course to Sweet Apple Acres.
As they rose above the woods, they could see the balloon approaching from the east; passing the boundary of the forest, they soared over the plains until finding themselves above the vast apple orchards that surrounded the farm. Even from that distance, they could hear the terrified scream of Apple Bloom coming from the Apple family home. Even Hunter was not ready for what they saw, a hybrid aberration assaulting the barn. Head, shoulders and forelegs of a ravenous fox; the muzzle was extra-long and the black eyes were compound like an insect's. The paws were oversized, perfect for tearing through the earth, and the mammalian torso was affixed to the abdomen of a scorpion. Its eight legs allowed the paws free movement and it battered the side of the barn in an attempt to get to the cowering family inside.
“What the hell is that?” Hunter asked.
“A Vulpion.” Luna said in shock. “My sister said that they have been extinct for nearly six hundred years.”
“We need to get him away from the barn.” Hunter said as he dove down into the fray. “Stinger!” He called as he closed in.
“What?” Hearing his human name, Stinger turned his eyes upward to see them approaching. “You know me?” He asked, halting his attack.
“Did you think you could just skip worlds without anyone finding out?” Hunter asked.
Stinger began to laugh in wild amusement. “What are you, a cop?” He asked back. “Did you really follow us here to try and bring us in?”
“I’m no cop.” Hunter assured. “A cop would give a damn about your rights!” He swooped down and swiped his talons, Stinger raised his massive paws and used the thick pads to mute the sharp nails. His head shot forward, attempting to bite Hunter in two and narrowly missing.
"Whoever you are, I'm never going back!" Stinger vowed. "There's no way in hell I would give up this kind of power!" His tail darted forward, barb dripping with fresh venom. Hunter barely avoided it and tried to close in once more; Stinger caught him and began to squeeze. "The press called me an animal, well now look at me!" He laughed. "I've become the ultimate predator!"
A blast of dark magic struck Stinger in the back of the neck, he released Hunter and skittered back; observing Luna above him. “Stand down, beast!” Luna commanded. “As a Princess of…”
“Shut it, bitch!” Stinger dug his paw into the soil and heaved a massive mound of it up at Luna who was forced to evade. Facing them fully, Stinger proceeded to fend off the three way attack; cackling like a mad man as he swiped the air with his heavy paws and attempted to skewer them with this tail.
Hunter battled through the barrage of appendages and landed on his back, sinking his talons into the soft fur of his upper body. Stinger howled in pain, frantically trying to reach back and grab Hunter. Rainbow Dash latched onto his tail in an effort to keep it still and Luna fired consecutive streams of magic into his chest. A purple beam joined her own as Twilight flew down to assist while the balloon touched down near the house. Seeing that he was being overwhelmed, Stinger threw his body into the barn and shattered the wall; the collision forcing Hunter and Rainbow Dash to let go as they landed on the hay covered ground. Hunter's attention was pulled at the sound of another scream, he looked to the opposite side of the barn and saw the Apples huddled together. As Stinger began to rise, Hunter flew in front of him; trying to keep him from noticing them.
“Damn you!” Stinger growled. “I’m not going to be taken in again!” He raised his paws and demolished the roof, the falling debris forcing everyone to scatter. Hunter ignored the danger and went at him again, locking talon and paw with him but quickly becoming overpowered. Stinger forced him back and his multi-faceted eyes noticed that the innocent bystanders were rushing to escape. His muzzle twisted into a smile and he matched eyes with Hunter, his intent fully communicated without the need for words.
“Don’t!” Hunter scrambled to his feet as Stinger sent his tail towards the exposed, young filly. Apple Bloom cried out but Hunter made it in front of her in time to take the stinger into his back. He instantly went limp and Stinger laughed mockingly at the sight.
“You might not be a cop, but you’re as predictable as one.” Stinger took out the remaining wall and brought the barn down on everyone inside. He easily stepped through the rubble only to be met by Luna, Twilight and Sunset. They fired their combined magic and staggered Stinger but failed to bring the monstrous animal down. “This is too crowded for my taste.” Stinger brought his paws together in a clap, the shockwave from the impact sending the three mares back. He then set his paws to the ground; burrowing back into the earth at amazing speed, sending dirt and rocks high into the sky and raining down onto the others. Within moments, he was gone and the battlefield went quiet. Rarity and Pinkie Pie ran to the aid of Sunset and the Princesses while Fluttershy worked to free Rainbow Dash from her prison beneath a pile of splintered wood and roof shingles.
“Apple Bloom!” Applejack called as she began digging through the wood. “Big Mac! Granny!” The pile began to move and her sturdy brother rose from the debris, having used his body to shield Hunter and his family from the collapsing building. Her racing heart was relieved at the sight of her family, it quickly sank though as she saw the motionless Hunter laying at their hooves.
Hunter’s head was on fire when we woke up, his eyes fluttering open and focusing in on Zecora and Sunset.
“Hunter.” Sunset wiped her eye in relief at seeing him awake.
“S… Sunny?” He mumbled through a dry beak as he tried to rise.
“Hold it now, you must be still.” Zecora set her hoof to his chest. “From the venom, you are still quite ill.”
“He got away.” She noted. “He went underground and disappeared. We went to get Zecora to treat you instead of trying to chase after him.”
Hunter rolled his head over to the zebra. “Thanks.” He tried to smile. “If we make it through this, I’ll take you back to my world and get you a record deal. With all those rhymes you’ll take the rap scene by storm.”
Zecora gave Sunset an odd smile. “I don’t know what he means, but he’ll be fine it seems.” She removed the cloth from his head and went to see it cleaned.
“I’m sorry.” He said as she left.
“For what?” Sunset asked.
“I let him get away.”
“Hunter, no one blames you for him getting away.” She laid her hoof atop his talon. “He’s an even bigger monster than we thought and not even Luna and Twilight's magic was doing much to stop him. Zecora and the Apples are safe, that's what matters.” She ran her hoof up and down his arm. “We’ll beat him next time, just rest for now.”
“Alright.” He conceded as his stirring body began to feel the pain of his injuries.
“Do you want anything?” She asked as she went to the door.
“Yeah. Tell Celestia to invent the M4 so I can shoot that fucker next time.” He smiled at having gotten her to laugh.
“I’ll see what I can do.” She chuckled as she headed back into the living room. As she rejoined the others she gave them a reassuring smile. “He’s awake, it looks like he’ll be okay.”
“Thank Celestia.” Twilight sighed.
“Thank Zecora.” Fluttershy corrected.
“Without a doubt.” Rarity nodded. “I shudder to think what would have happened if she’d not been close by.”
Applejack was sitting with Apple Bloom, holding her sister close. She rubbed her head before standing and heading into the back bedroom. The sound of her opening the door made Hunter’s eyes open again and he gave her a weak wave. “Sorry, Sunset said you were awake.”
“It’s fine.” Hunter summoned the strength to push himself up against the wall. “I’m in too much pain to sleep anyway.” He let out a sharp breath as he got comfortable. “Apple Bloom, right? How is she?”
“Pretty shaken, but she’s alive.” Applejack went to the bed and gently hugged him, tears falling from her eyes as she pressed her cheek to his. “Thank you for saving my little sister.”
Hunter put his arms around her and rubbed her back. “Hey, I had to do something to impress you.” He managed a small laugh.
Applejack laughed and ran her hoof across her eyes as she stepped back from the bed. “I’m serious.” She smiled. “We lost our parents when we were young, I couldn’t bear to lose one of the only family members I have left.”
“Anytime, AJ.” He took her hoof with a sincere smile. The door opened again and Sunset returned with a fresh cloth from Zecora, pausing at the scene. “Sunny.” Hunter pulled Applejack close and held her. “This is exactly what it looks like.”
“Do I have to knock you out again to get you to rest?” Sunset asked with a shake of her head.
“Sorry, Sugar cube.” Applejack apologized. “I just wanted to thank him.” She left them and Sunset took her place at the bedside, laying the new cool cloth over his forehead.
“Luna went back to Canterlot to update Celestia.” She informed as she adjusted his pillow. “Twilight and Pinkie Pie are going to research the Vulpion to try and find a weakness and Rainbow Dash is tracking the tunnel he left behind.
“I need to get better at using this body.” Hunter sighed. It's been a long time since I've gotten my dick knocked in the dirt like that. That mirror really short changed me when it was passing out new forms.”
“No, it didn’t.” Sunset said surely. “You didn’t become a monster because that’s not what you are. Hippogriffs, with the aid of their magic shell, can change into sea ponies. They’re the only creatures in Equestria that can operate on land, sea and air… sound familiar?”
“The few and the proud, huh?” Hunter nodded, having gone through military training on par with MARSOC. “Oorah.”
“Exactly.” Sunset sat on the bed beside him. “To be honest, being in my pony form still feels funny too; even though it was how I was born. I’ve been in that world for so long now that being human feels more natural to me.”
“You didn’t wind up on my side of the tracks by choice, did you?” He asked.
“No.” She admitted. “I was Celestia’s protégé before Twilight, a position I took for granted and let go to my head.” Her mind traveled back into her past misdeeds. “She was forced to send me away and I wound up in the human world. I used my knowledge and skills to become a bully and ran roughshod over everyone.”
“Typical red head.” Hunter smiled.
“Ha… I guess.” She snickered. “Twilight, the one from this world, was the one to ultimately knock some sense into me and since then things have been better. I’ve even reconnected with Celestia and I finally feel like I’ve gotten my original home back in some small way.”
“Then why didn’t you just stay?”
“I don’t know.” She shrugged. “As weird as it may sound, the human world is my home now and I don’t want to walk away from what I have there. Maybe I’ve been human for so long… I don’t really think of myself as a pony anymore.”
“Maybe you’re the missing link between the two.” Hunter mused. “Like bigfoot.” Sunset raised her hoof over his head. “But cuter!” He defended.
Sunset laughed and lightly bopped his beak. “Get some rest.” She smiled down at him.
“Yes ma’am.” He saluted before settling down into as comfortable a position as he could. Sunset drew the curtain to darken the room and gently closed the door on her way out.
Hunter awoke to the sound of excited talking. He sat upright, finding himself in far better shape than the night prior. With a long groan his swung his legs over the side of the bed and steadied himself on all fours. Making his way to the door, he slowly opened it and wandered out into the living room.
“Hunter?” Sunset noticed him out of the corner of her eye. “I’m sorry, we didn’t mean to wake you.”
“That’s okay.” He wearily made his way to the couch.
“Here, darling.” Rarity moved over and helped him sit.
“Thanks.” He fell to the cushion with a sigh.
“How are you feeling?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“I’d tell you, but Sunset said I’m not allowed to use that kind of language.” He managed to laugh.
“Hunter?” His eyes rolled down to see Apple Bloom.
“Hey, little lady.” He sat forward.
“I didn’t get to say thanks yesterday.”
“No worries.” He lowered his head to her. “Just put in a good word with your sister for me.” Apple Bloom giggled and nodded, catching Applejack’s attention. “What are y’all whispering about?” She asked with a hard eye.
“Nothing.” They answered in unison.
“Well, you look better.” Sunset noted. “Would you like something to eat?”
“I could go for a cheeseburger.” His eyes perked.
“Um… yeah, about that.” Sunset began with a twisted lip. “Ponies don’t really do… meat.”
“Really?” He raised his brow.
“Didn’t you notice that I was a vegetarian?” She asked.
“Well yeah, but I thought that was a lifestyle choice. You know, like loving jazz or being really into feet.”
“Into feet?” Fluttershy repeated.
“Ugh, I’ll explain later.” Sunset rolled her eyes.
“How about some fresh, apple fritters.” Apple Bloom suggested. “Granny made some this morning.”
“Sounds perfect.” He gave her a wink.
“I’ll grab you a few.” Apple Bloom headed back into the kitchen.
“So, where are we at?” Hunter queried.
“Well, Luna is still in Canterlot and Zecora went home to start fixing up her house.” Sunset started before gesturing over to Twilight. “Twilight and Pinkie were able to dig up some info on the Vulpion.”
Hunter turned his attention to the Princess. “Anything good?”
“Actually, yes.” Twilight nodded. “It turns out that the Vulpion went extinct during an extended winter, this was well before the pegasi took over weather regulation. They had a hibernation cycle of 4 months but due to unnatural weather patterns, there was a winter season that lasted twice that length. Basically, they never woke up and starved in their burrows.”
“How awful.” Fluttershy saddened, even the plight of a ferocious creature such as the Vulpion bringing her pause.
“So we freeze him.” Hunter concluded, his mind already working out a plan. “RD, were you able to find out where he holed himself up?”
“Sure did.” Rainbow Dash confirmed. “He’s in Ghastly Gorge.”
“Well that place sounds dandy.” He jested, taking three of the fritters from Apple Bloom as she returned. “Is it inhabited?” He asked, taking a bite.
“Only by nasty Quarray Eeels.” Pinkie said with a menacing face. “They’re big and go after any creature that wanders by their holes. I saw them when I went to talk to Maud.” Hunter laid his head back and stared up at the ceiling.
“What are you thinking?” Rarity inquired.
“You said pegasi can regulate the weather, right?” He recalled Twilight’s tidbit.
“That’s right.” Fluttershy reconfirmed.
“I have a plan then, but it’s going to take some doing to pull off.” Hunter brought his head back down.
“We’re up for it.” Rainbow Dash flexed her foreleg.
“Yeah, what do we need to do?” Applejack asked.
“We’re going to need more pegasi, around 50 iron poles that are at least 20 feet in length and several long lassos.” He relayed.
“I’ll get the Wonderbolts to help out.” Rainbow Dash promised.
“We can get the iron poles from the smith in Canterlot.” Twilight added.
“I can secure as much rope as we’ll need.” Rarity assured.
“Alright then.” Hunter smiled. “Let’s go take him down.”
The team separated to gather what Hunter had asked for; in the meantime, he went into the yard to loosen his body up for what was to come. Granny Smith provided him with a homemade ointment to soothe his muscles and he put himself through some of his old combat routines to adapt his techniques for a Hippogriff body. Sunset kept a close eye on him, fully aware that he was far from 100%. After a few hours, she brought him some water to keep him hydrated.
“Hunter.” Sunset called his attention, bringing a halt to his exercises.
“Oh, thanks.” Hunter gladly accepted the tall glass and proceeded to down half of it in a single chug.
“How’s it going?” She asked.
“Not bad.” He answered through a hard exhale. “Problem is, all my moves are committed to muscle memory; but I’ve got an entirely new musculature now so everything is thrown off.”
“Just be careful.” Sunset requested with serious eyes. “You’re still not fully recovered from the venom.”
“No, I’m definitely not.” He agreed with a laugh. “But we don’t have time to sit around and wait for me to recover. While we’re handling Stinger, Skyfall and Ridgeback are still out there doing god knows what. We’ve got a lot of friends here, but time damn sure isn’t one of them.”
“I know.” She nodded.
“Don’t worry.” He gave her a reassuring smile. “When I told Applejack she was the only one I’d let kill me, I meant it.”
As the day wore on, the others slowly began to return from their tasks. Rarity and Fluttershy brought a dozen, strong lengths of rope that Applejack fashioned into lassos. Twilight’s balloon returned from Canterlot, the iron rods fastened to the basket and Luna at her side; and Rainbow Dash came back with the Wonderbolts as well as the reserve flyers. Once everyone was back, Sunset and Twilight assembled them in the field so that Hunter could detail his plan.
“Alright, Hunter.” Twilight gave him her full attention. “How do we do this?”
“Okay, this is going to be a multi-stage operation.” Hunter began. “First, we need to pin him down to one location. Once we get to the gorge, I’m going to lure him out into an area we can close off from both sides. When he’s in position; Sunny, Twi and Sailor Moon will use their magic to cause landslides to block off his exits.”
“What is this moniker by which he calls me?” Luna turned her eyes to Sunset.
“I’ll… explain later.” Sunset sighed.
“At this point I’ll square off with him and hold his attention.” Hunter continued. “While we're engaged, I need the iron poles driven into the ground all around us. Once the poles are in place, the pegasi will bring in the clouds and make it snow. The cold will slow him down; but given that he doesn’t know the limits of his new body he won’t realize that until it’s too late. I’m sure at that point he’ll try to go back underground; when he does I need everyone to move in and use the lassos to keep him above ground. In his weakened state, all of your combined strength should be more than enough to overpower him. At that point, we’ll have him.” Hunter looked over the group. “Everyone clear?” The gathered ponies sounded their understanding. “Everyone ready!” He shouted, the ponies cheering in response. “Everyone think that Sunset should totally go out with me!?” Confused mutters followed his third rally, an audible groan from Sunset chief among them. “Eh, worth a shot.” He shrugged with an innocent smile.
With a solid plan of action, the team moved out and got into position near Ghastly Gorge. Rainbow Dash led them to the spot where she had seen Stinger last and he had already dug out a burrow in the rock. Several dead Quarray Eels littered the area, their bodies having been feasted on by the far deadlier predator. Hunter flew down to the entrance and stared into the void.
“Stinger!” Hunter called into the darkness.
After several moments he heard the ground in the burrow shuffle and Stinger emerged, glaring down at him with a mildly impressed smile. “You’re still alive?”
“Yeah.” He nodded. “Guess you’re a shittier killer than you thought.”
Stinger laughed in response. “Well, thanks for coming all the way here so I can finish the job.”
“You’re going to have to earn it, ugly.” Hunter hovered in the air in preparation.
“It wouldn’t be fun if I didn’t!” His tail shot forward and Hunter drifted to the right, flying backwards as he motioned for Stinger to continue. Kicking his eight legs into full gear, Stinger pursued Hunter who dodge the flurry of incoming paw swipes and tail thrusts; staying far enough away to be safe but close enough to keep him interested the chase. Hunter led him down the trench, well away from the entrance to his burrow and to their chosen ambush location. Once they passed the agreed point; Twilight, Sunset and Luna, who were poised on the ledges above, began unleashing huge blasts of magic into the walls of the gorge. Stinger halted his attack and looked up to see the avalanches of rock raining down, ultimately trapping them in an arena.
“Stay sharp!” Hunter yelled as he flew in and raked his talon across Stinger’s face. Stinger let out an angry roar and refocused on Hunter. “Now!” Hunter called up into the sky. Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and the Wonderbolts began carrying the iron rods over their heads; they went into dives and released the poles, letting gravity impale them into the ground. Twilight and Luna flew in to help, using their magic to jam some the rods into the ground as well. Within moments, Hunter and Stinger were fully surrounded by 10 foot high lengths of iron.
“What is this!?” Stinger asked angrily.
“Just something to even the playing field.” Hunter answered, rolling his shoulders as he prepared for the real fight. He sped between the rods and re-engaged Stinger, sending out a barrage of rapid swipes and kicks as he used the rods as launch pads to rebound himself in a confusing pattern of movement. Stinger tried to fight back, finding that his own movements were severely limited by the dozens of obstructions. His wide swings were cut short as his paws banged into the poles, his many legs were confounded as they tried to maneuver his larger frame in between them and his tail was consistently blocked from landing a sure hit. As Hunter pummeled and slashed the beast, the pegasi had already begun coating the sky in thick, dark clouds. Violently bouncing on them, they brewed up an impromptu snow storm and the arena began to blanket in white. Initially, as predicted, Stinger ignored the sudden change in weather; his bloodthirst keeping his mind focused on ending Hunter’s life. As the minutes passed however, his body began to grow sluggish and a deep chill ran through his bones.
“What’s… happening…?” Stinger’s chest heaved as he struggled to move.
“I see someone failed biology!” Hunter flipped in the air and kicked Stinger in the chin, sending him staggering back. He landed a series of solid punches to his face, easily evading the now labored swings of his paws. Stinger made a last, heavy jab of his tail; Hunter caught the end and pulled it taught around one of the rods, severing the deadly barb with his talon. Stinger screamed in pain and began to fall back, trying to find a clear spot in which to dig into the ground. “Move in!” Hunter called again. Everyone charged down into the gorge and breaking into predetermined teams, started to lasso Stinger’s legs and arms. Far too weak to fight back and with his body going into a hibernated state, the once fearsome monster collapsed into the snow.
“We have won!” Luna sounded off, the others cheering their success.
Hunter walked over to Stinger, kneeling down and grabbing his head. “Where are the others?” He demanded.
“Fuck… you…” Stinger managed. “I’ll… kill you… all!” He huffed. “If you think… you can… hold me…”
“I don’t plan to.” Without hesitation, Hunter formed his talon into a point and drove it into Stinger’s neck.
“Hunter!” Twilight’s scream drew the attention of the others, who fell silent at the sight. Hunter withdrew his bloodied arm and stood, swiping it through the air and sending the blood onto the snow. “What have you done!?” Twilight asked in sheer shock.
“What needed to be done, Twi.” Hunter said solemnly. “I’m sorry, if I told you this part of the plan then you wouldn’t have gone along with it.
“How could you?” Fluttershy asked with a quivering lip.
“We had him beaten, there was no reason….” Twilight began.
“Twilight.” Hunter faced her, his eyes more serious than ever before. “Look what it took to bring him down, do you have any way to contain something like this safely?”
“We… we could have secured him with magic.” Twilight retorted. “We could have locked him Tartarus.”
“The same magic that he shrugged off like rainwater?” Hunter asked in return. “We don’t have any way to maintain a cold environment to keep him weak and once he regained his strength we’d be back at square one.” He heavily sighed. “You have to understand, Stinger would kill all of you without a second thought; he didn’t even see his fellow man as human beings, only toys for him to play with and break. You can’t control, reason with or show mercy to a creature like this. He doesn’t value life in any way, shape or form; in my book, that means I don’t have to value his.”
“Twilight.” Sunset went to her mentor. “He’s… not wrong.”
“How can you say that!?” Twilight looked at her with frustrated tears in her eyes. “That goes against everything we were taught by Princess Celestia. All creatures in our world deserve a chance to amend their ways.”
“He’s not from your world.” Hunter reminded.
“Neither are you.” Twilight shook her head. “How is what you’ve done any different than what you feared him doing?”
“Don’t compare Hunter to them!” Sunset said angrily.
“Enough!” Luna stepped in. “What’s done is done. There are two more of these beasts running loose which means our fight is not yet over. We will return to Canterlot and speak with sister on the matter.”
Hunter looked out over the others, all looking at him with varying levels of confusion, concern and fear. He knew this moment was going to come, even so, it didn’t make it hurt any less.
It was a long, quiet flight back to Canterlot as everyone’s minds were tangled in thought while they processed Hunter’s actions. Hunter saw this, as well as the tension that was now stirring between Sunset and Twilight. Objectively, he didn’t regret his actions, but seeing what his decision was doing to these ponies didn’t sit well with him. Arriving in Canterlot, Luna left them to debrief the situation to Celestia. Hunter and the others were soon summoned to the throne room where the Princesses awaited. Celestia’s eyes were heavy with a mixture of emotion and she stayed silent for a long minute before choosing her words.
“Let me first say that I am glad you are all safe.” She began. “I know that this situation is… unique; that being said, I cannot help but feel conflicted over your decision, Hunter. From what I understand, this Stinger was beaten and yet you chose to execute him.”
“I did.” Hunter admitted.
“I see, and what led you to conclude that you had the right to make that choice?”
“This isn’t about right, this about what needs to be done to keep Equestria safe.”
“I cannot believe that.” Celestia refuted. “There is always a choice and I cannot see the senseless killing of a creature, no matter how dangerous, as a solution that upholds the ideas of this world.” Her eyes saddened. “I fear I may have misjudged you, Hunter.”
“Princess, I already knew what you’d think based on Twilight’s reaction. I know that in your world problems can be solved with friendship, understanding, compromise and kindness; but these aren’t creatures from your world and you have to accept that.” He thumbed towards the door. “These men were monsters well before they set foot in Equestria; they don’t care about your beliefs and they don’t care how this world works, they’re going to bring the same level of violence that they partook in back in my world to yours and the fact that we’re having this conversation just proves to me that your world isn’t ready to handle it.” He glanced back to his friends. “I’m sorry I wasn’t up front about my intentions and I’m sorry I dragged you down my road in life, but this is my job and this is why I came here.” He looked back to Celestia. “For me, being liked is a luxury and in the end… if you wind up hating me for what I do then that’s fine; making sure your world is safe is more important than my popularity. You can say I’m no better than them, in some ways you may be right, I never said I was a saint.”
“You’ve clearly thought this through.” Celestia observed. “I won’t claim to understand your world, but the more I learn the more I believe that the two should not cross.”
“And what about me!?” Sunset spoke up. “I’ve lived in both worlds and I’m proof that the two can coexist.” She turned to Twilight. “You’ve been to my school, you met my friends before they even were my friends, you know that humans have just as much good in them as ponies.”
“I know.” Twilight nodded. “But even Hunter said that the spectrums of the human world are more extreme. Accepting the best also means accepting the worst, if this situation represents the worst then maybe Celestia is right.”
“This isn’t the worst, Twilight.” Hunter came in. “You haven’t come close to seeing the worst and I’m trying to make sure you never do.” He stepped up to the thrones. “Look, I don’t want humans, myself included, to damage this world any more than we already have. I’ll track down the last two and deal with them. Once I’m done, you have my word that I’ll leave your world and won’t set foot here again.” He turned and began to leave.
“Hunter.” Sunset hurried in front of him.
“Stay here, Sunny.” Hunter tried to step aside but she followed.
“No, I’m going with you.” She insisted.
“No.” He took her shoulders and smiled. “I can take it from here, I’m not going to force you or your friends to walk my path. You told me you just rediscovered this place and even your relationship with Celestia, don’t throw that away for me… I’m not worth it.” He moved her away and spread his wings, flying from the room.
“Sunset.” Celestia rose and stepped from the throne.
“Princess, I get that his methods are extreme, but everything he said was right.” Sunset faced Celestia with teary eyes. “Yeah, Hunter can be just as violent as the men we’re after, but judge him by his heart. He came here and risked his life for us and now he’s going out there again in spite of you telling him he doesn’t belong here. If he goes after them alone… he’s going to die!” Her tears started to fall freely. “I’m going after him and I’ll help him do what he has to do. If that means that you have to disown me again then… so be it. I wish it didn’t have to be this way and I wish that what you and Twilight taught me was enough to bring these guys down, but the truth is that it isn’t. If that way of thinking makes me a human in your eyes, then maybe I’m more human than pony at this point.
“Sister.” Luna went to Celestia’s side. “I have to admit, I am inclined to agree with them.”
“How?” Celestia asked. “What if we held such ideology when you were a threat to Equestria. What if we… simply killed you?” Just the thought brought tears to Celestia’s eyes.
“My darkness was brought on by my jealousy and anger, the elements of harmony removed the cocoon of hate from around me and returned me to normal.” Luna explained. “That is the key word, normal. Deep down, I was never a violent or malicious creature; I was your sister and at my core I loved you. As Hunter said, these men seem steeped in evil and they see no value in the world around them beyond their own gratification. There is no kindness in them to reach." A deep sigh passed her lips. "I am with you in disapproving of killing, but having seen Stinger up close and hearing his vile words… I understand Hunter’s position.” She laid her wing over her sister. “I do not fully comprehend Hunter either, but his character and resolve are more than clear to me. Sometimes, it takes a sword to defend the world in place of a shield; Hunter seems to be the embodiment of this idea. He is capable of becoming the worst a human can be, but he chooses to use that in the defense of the best of them. I can only imagine the line he walks in life and as much as I recoil from the thought I am equally in awe. We cannot let him sacrifice himself for our world without standing at his side; that truly would be against all that we believe in.”
“Princess Celestia.” Applejack spoke up. “Apple Bloom would be gone right now if it wasn’t for Hunter. I know he’s a strange one, but he’s also a good one and we need to fight with him.
Celestia looked into Sunset’s eyes and reflected on many things. “You are right.” She finally conceded. “These humans represent a threat that defies everything we know and I cannot ask Equestria to face a threat that I myself would not face.” Celestia steeled herself and raised her head. “I will fight with you as well. Let us catch up with him while we can.”
“Thank you, Princess.” Sunset wiped her eyes.
“I am sorry, Sunset.” Celestia went to her. “To be honest, you have more experience than any of us in this situation and I should not have overlooked that.” She looked down at her with a warm smile. “Being human has made you strong in ways that we are not and that is something to be valued, not dismissed.”
“I’m sorry too.” Twilight joined them. “I didn’t have any right to go after Hunter like that. As the Princess of Friendship this is all just… hard to accept.”
“We’re not going to come out of this the same as we went in.” Sunset said with confidence. “Let’s just make sure we do come out.” She hugged Twilight as the others gathered around to share their sentiment.
Hunter flew over Canterlot, his mind torn between his mission and his friends. His troubled flight was interrupted as his eyes caught sight of a red flash high above his head.
“Hunter!” Sunset yelled as she appeared in the sky and began plummeting towards him.
Hunter quickly halted and caught her in his arms, the force sending them downward several feet. “Uh oh.” He looked up into the clouds above. “Looks like heaven sprung a leak.”
“Sorry, it’s been a long time since I’ve teleported.” She caught her breath as her heartbeat slowed.
“What are you doing, Sunny?” He frowned. “You shouldn’t be here.”
“Yes, she should.” Celestia’s voice sounded from behind them; he spun in the air and saw the three Princesses approaching. “As should I.”
“WE’RE HERE TOO!” Pinkie’s voice echoed up from the streets below. Hunter peered down and waved back at them.
“Hunter, our philosophies are separated by an ocean, but our hearts by only the width of a feather." Celestia began. "While your methods and outlook bring me pause, I cannot and will not ignore the good that drives them. I do not fully understand the circumstances of your life, but I have seen enough to know that you are a unique creature, one that I am sure defies even the logic of your own kind.”
“My boss said the same thing once... only a lot meaner.” Hunter smirked.
“You are not like those we seek, and I apologize for insinuating so.” Celestia humbly tipped her head.
Hunter lowered his head to her in return. “Thank you, Princess.”
“Moving forward, I will be at your side as well.” Celestia assured. “But, I do ask that if at all possible we avoid bloodshed. If no other option exists, then I will let you do what you must.”
Hunter hovered closer and held his talon out. “Deal. I’ll do everything I can to end this without violence.”
“Thank you.” Celestia laid her hoof in his talon.
“Well, that’s a relief.” Hunter’s face gave way to his typical smile. “I really didn't have any concrete plan to tackle this alone. Not to mention I just hate having beautiful women mad at me.”
Celestia laughed and shook her head. “This world most certainly isn’t ready for you, Hunter; but I am glad you are here now.”
Hunter bobbed over to Twilight. “We good?” He asked.
“Yes.” Twilight answered with a light smile. “I didn’t mean to…”
“Hey, it’s alright.” Hunter nodded understandingly. “I didn’t not deserve it” He grinned.
“So what now?” Sunset asked.
“This day has already been long and trying for all of us.” Luna began. “We still have no solid leads on the remaining two, I suggest you take the time to return home and rest while you can.”
“That’s a good idea.” Twilight agreed. “Let’s head back to Ponyville.”
“Okay.” Hunter checked with Sunset. “You taking the balloon or shall I carry you, Madame?”
“The balloon, it’s less grabby.” She smiled.
“Balloon it is.” Hunter descended back down to the others.
“Twilight.” Celestia circled in front of her. “I will notify you should we hear anything.”
“Right, I’ll do the same.” Twilight promised. She flew down to join her friends while the Princesses returned to the castle.
Everyone was physically, mentally and emotionally drained by the time they made it back to Ponyville. Pinkie saw the lingering somberness in her friends and immediately set herself to remedying the matter.
“Hey, everypony.” Pinkie jogged in front of them. “And Hippogriff.” She added. “I know today has been… a lot. But we can’t forget that we’re all still okay and we’re all still together. I say that’s cause for a celebration!” She pulled confetti from her mane and rained it down onto their heads.
“Pinkie, darling.” Rarity sighed. “We appreciate the thought but we’re also exhausted, you don’t have to…”
“Yes I do!” Pinkie ran up to her. “This isn’t just about being tired… can’t you feel it?” She asked. “Everybody is so heavy right now and that isn’t good.”
“It’s okay, Candy Land.” Hunter went to her side. “I’m a realist if nothing else. I know that you all aren’t going to see me the same way from here on out. It’s only natural and its part of the job for me; so don’t feel like you have to try and force the pendulum back.”
“I’m not trying to force it back, I’m trying to keep it in motion.” Pinkie adamantly defended. “Pretending things are okay doesn’t make them okay. That mean Vulpion was just the beginning and we’re going to be dealing with even more sad stuff; which means we have to find and hold onto the happy where we find it.” Her eyes ran across her circle of friends.
“That is a surprising amount of insight for someone who I’m almost certain is 60% frosting.” Hunter smiled.
“Hey, I know about a lot more than just parties.” She grinned back.
“Pinkie is right.” Twilight admitted. “We’re going to be dealing with things we’ve never dealt with before, all the more reason we need to keep our spirits high and our friendships strong.”
Hunter sat in the midst of them and looked around. “One of the most important things for a soldier in the field is trust; and I’ve already made a misstep in that area. I’ve been given the mission of protecting your home and keeping you safe; so if you’re willing to keep your trust in me then I’ll do whatever it takes to complete that mission.”
“You know that I will.” Sunset said without hesitation.
“So will I.” Twilight agreed.
“I sure am.” Applejack nodded. “You’re a hero in my book, Hunter.”
“Same here.” Pinkie patted his back.
“Likewise.” Rarity said with a delicate tip of her head.
“You’re good with me.” Rainbow Dash added.
“I forgive you too.” Fluttershy’s demure smile returned.
“Thanks.” Hunter nodded. “I’ll be straight with you all from now on, about the good and the bad.”
“Good.” Pinkie braced her forelegs on his shoulders “Now how about that party?”
Pinkie did what she did best and eroded the veil of melancholy with her endless cheer. A few rounds of dancing, custom ice cream shakes, sandwiches and a piñata found them all in much better spirits. Eventually their numbers dwindled, Pinkie being the last to call it a night as Twilight saw her off.
“Night, Pinkie.” Twilight waved as she magically closed the door.
“I think I’m going to get to bed too.” Sunset said with a yawn.
“Well, Starlight is still in the Crystal Empire visiting Sunburst, so you can sleep in her room. I’m sure she won’t mind.”
“Thanks, Twilight.” Sunset headed upstairs. “See you in the morning.”
“Goodnight.” Twilight waved before making a last round of the castle for the evening.
Sunset poked around the upper halls, looking for Hunter who had disappeared a while ago. She peered out onto the second story terrace and found him lying on his back, gazing up at the night sky.
“There you are.” Sunset walked over and sat beside him.
“Oh, hey Swine Strands.” He grinned up at her.
Sunset laughed dryly. “You’re starting to have to stretch for those.”
“Am I?” He chortled. “How about Hog Hat? Meat Mop? Tallow Tail?”
Sunset punched him in the shoulder with a restrained smile. “Shut it.”
“Ow, okay.” Hunter raised his talons as he sat up.
Sunset giggled and lowered her hoof. “I missed those stupid names… I missed you.” She admitted. "Having to see you take off like that, almost being forced to choose between Equestria and you... really made that sink in."
"You would have turned your back on Celestia to chase after me?"
"I didn't want to, but I wasn't going to let you run off alone and get yourself killed." She shrugged. "So... yeah, I would have."
Hunter looked into her eyes and smiled in reflection. “I knew that if you ever called me it was going to be something bad… and this is pretty damn bad. Still, I have to admit, I was happy when I saw that phone ringing. I didn’t think I’d ever see you again.” He reached over and squeezed her leg. “I didn’t want to leave, you know.”
“I know.” She allowed herself to lean into him. “I didn’t want you to leave either; but we both knew you had to.” Her eyes went downcast. “I think we both knew that… this… just wasn’t going to work.”
“Yeah.” Hunter regretfully agreed. “I can’t really tell you I’d always be there when I have to run around the world every other month.” A hapless laugh escaped him as he laid his head against hers. “Life just isn’t fair, is it?”
“Rarely.” They pressed into each other even more, her lips and his beak inching ever closer. His talon came up her back, combing through her mane and down her neck. “Damn it, Hunter.” She whispered as her hoof ran up his chest. “What did we just say?”
“Something about not going to work tomorrow?” He asked wryly as they lost themselves in a deep kiss. Hunter fell backwards and pulled her on top of him, his sharp claws lightly running up and down her body as their heads rocked to and fro.
“This is stupid.” She muttered between kisses.
“I agree.” He did the same.
“Then why don’t you stop?” She asked.
“I’ll stop when you do.” He noted, dragging his beak down her neck and kissing her shoulder.
Sunset planted her hooves on his chest and pushed herself up, shutting her eyes and biting her lip to keep from kissing him again. They both partook in heavy, controlling breaths as they fought the enflamed desire they felt for each other. “Hunter, we know what happens if we do this.”
“Yeah.” He laid his head back on the cool, crystalline floor. “It feels amazing… and then hurts like hell when we have to say goodbye again. Assuming we make it that far.”
Sunset rolled off of him and laid at his side, the two of them staring up into space. “I want to, Hunter.” She sighed. “You have no idea how badly I want to.”
“Oh, I've got a pretty good idea.” Hunter’s head rolled towards her, he reached out and took her hoof. “I’d walk away from it all if I could.”
“I know.” Sunset looked back at him. “But you do so much good and protect so many people. Even if you could, I wouldn’t ask you to.”
Hunter rolled over and stood, groaning in frustration. “Good for us for being smart." He said, his voice saturated in sarcasm. "It totally doesn’t suck.” He broke into laughter.
Sunset laughed right along with him as she got to her hooves. “Nope, not one bit.” She went to him with a hug. “I’d ask you not to be weird about this, but you’re weird about everything so...”
Hunter put his arms around her. “Hey, I can keep my mind on my work. I’m a professional.”
“A professional pain in the butt.” Sunset kissed his cheek and gazed into his eyes. "If we do make it back in one piece, we can talk about this then."
"Sounds like a plan." Hunter agreed. “We should… probably go back in now.” He dragged himself from her.
“Yeah.” She nodded.
“I should also sleep on an entirely different floor tonight, huh?” He asked with a smile.
“Good idea.” Sunset concurred with a light laugh as they headed back inside.
The next morning, the castle was roused by Rainbow Dash who flew through the halls with Gilda at her heels, calling for Twilight. Twilight, Spike, Sunset and Hunter rushed out of their rooms to see what was going on.
Twilight and Spike hurried down the hall until bumping into them. “Rainbow Dash, what’s…Gilda?” She paused at the sight of the griffon.
“Twilight, Gilda says that a monster invaded Griffonstone and has taken over.” Rainbow Dash rapidly explained.
“What’s going on?” Sunset asked as she and Hunter joined them.
“One of those… things is in Griffonstone.” Rainbow Dash reiterated.
Twilight summoned a scroll and quill, passing them to Spike. “Spike, let the Princesses know.”
“On it.” Spike flew into the library to relay the message.
“Gilda, this is Hunter and Sunset.” Twilight quickly introduced. “That creature sounds like one of the three we’re tracking down and they’re here to help.”
“What happened?” Hunter asked.
“It showed up about two days ago.” Gilda began. “At first it didn’t attack, but it threw its weight around and started interrogating us.”
“About what?” Sunset inquired.
“He wanted us to tell him about the world. It was like he’d never lived here a day in his life.” Gilda shook her head in confusion. “Once we told him what he wanted to know, he ordered us to leave. We tried to fight back but it’s too strong and… a bunch of griffons have already been killed.”
“Oh no.” Twilight gasped.
“The griffons are gathered near the base of the mountain, we’re all homeless now and running low on food. I didn’t know what else to do so I came looking for Dash.”
“It sounds like he’s trying to set up a base of operations.” Hunter surmised. “If he entrenches himself in the mountains it’ll be damn near impossible to get at him.” He growled under his breath. “Can you tell me about him? What is he?”
“I don’t know for sure.” Gilda answered. “I’ve never seen any creature like it. It looks like a Roc but it has two sets of wings, a longer body with a tail more like a dragon’s and huge horns. What’s worse is that the tips of his wings are lined with quills that he can throw; they’re sharp and can even pierce solid stone.”
“Sound familiar?” Hunter turned to Twilight.
“No, I’ve never heard of anything like that.” She confessed.
“Twilight!?” Spike came barreling back down the hall. “Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are on their way.”
“Thanks, Spike.” Twilight accepted him onto her back. “We’ll get moving as soon as they arrive. When they do, let the others know what is happening. We’ll have to fly to Griffonstone so it looks like this is going to be up to us.”
“What about me?” Sunset asked.
“I can use my magic to carry you.” Twilight assured.
“So, you guys can beat this thing, right?” Gilda asked, a fear in her voice not even Rainbow Dash had heard before. “I mean, that’s what you do.”
As they scrambled to prepare, a bright flash of light filled the foyer and the Princesses appeared. “Twilight!” Celestia called. “We are here!”
Hearing her call, everyone assembled around them. “What is it we face?” Luna asked.
“Big bird, four wings, dragon tail, quill darts… ring a bell?” Hunter asked in returned.
“The Draconopteryx?” Celestia looked to her sister.
“So it would seem.” Luna nodded.
“What is that?” Twilight queried.
“An ancient species, thought to be the ancestral link between reptilian species' like the Dragon and avian species' like the Griffon.” Celestia explained.
“Oh, we have creatures like those in my world.” Hunter began casually. “Except they went extinct millions of years ago.”
“Even we have not seen one before.” Luna noted. “Where is it now?”
“Griffonstone.” Sunset informed.
“Then let us make haste.” Celestia threw open the castle doors with her magic as they all took to the air and set course for the Griffon capitol.
Flying as fast as their wings could carry them, the team ascended higher and higher up towards the Hyperborean Mountains.
“Hunter?” Sunset called from within her magical bubble. “What's our plan?”
“Going to be honest, Sunny.” Hunter glided down to her. “I’m not entirely sure." He looked up at Gilda. "Hey, Gil? Where did our bird go to roost?”
“Most of Griffonstone is run down.” Gilda admitted. “He made a spot for himself on top of the old castle.”
“Is there any way to approach without being seen?” He continued.
“No, it’s a mountain plateau.” Gilda noted. “Pretty much open from all sides.”
“Guess that means no element of surprise.” Rainbow Dash chimed in.
Hunter flew up to the royal sisters. “Is your magic strong enough to defend against his quills?”
“I am certain it is.” Luna nodded.
“Do you have an idea?” Celestia queried.
“I think so.” He said half surely.
“We trust your call, Hunter.” Twilight affirmed. “What do you want us to do?”
“Okay, Twi's bubble gave me the idea.” Hunter began. “We’re going to form a shield chain that starts with Sunny and ends with me." He glanced down at Sunset. "Since you'll be on the ground, you'll be safest but the only one unprotected.”
“That’s fine.” Sunset assured. "I use the buildings as cover."
“Alright then; Sunny will form a bubble around Twi, Twi will form one around Luna, Luna around Celestia and Celestia around me.”
“I see.” Celestia smiled, rather impressed. “We will each be protected while in the air and you can close in without fear.”
“I’ll signal you as to when to drop and reengage my shield.” Hunter punched the air. “I won’t be able to strike inside the bubble, so I’ll have you lower it when I attack and put it back up when I retreat.”
“That will not be a problem.” Celestia said surely.
“What about us?” Gilda asked.
“Go with R.D. and see to the Griffons.” Hunter coasted over to her side. “Let them know we’re on the job and keep them calm.”
“Gotcha.” Rainbow Dash nodded.
Rainbow and Gilda split off as they neared the mountain. Hunter, Sunset and the Princesses soared up the sheer face and into the city. Landing on the streets, they walked through the deathly silent conglomerate of dead wood, broken down homes and tattered stone pathways.
“I had no idea Griffons lived in the projects.” Hunter whispered.
“What happened to Griffonstone is a long story.” Twilight explained. “It’s looked like this for generations according to Pinkie.”
“Look.” Sunset pointed up the castle, the flying monstrosity circled the top and landed on an open spot.
“He is bigger than I imagined.” Celestia admitted.
“One of these days a Princess is going to say that about me.” Hunter snickered as he looked up at his next opponent. “Well, guess I’d better go introduce myself. Wait for the signal to move in.”
“What is the signal?” Sunset asked.
“When he tries to kill me.” Hunter smiled back at her before taking to the air. He boldly flew up towards the castle and whistled as loud as he could.
The creature stirred and turned to face him. “Who are you?”
“Hunter.” He pointed his claw at him. “And you must be Skyfall.”
Skyfall’s eyes widened. “I see, another human.”
“I’ve already dealt with Stinger.” Hunter informed. “You’re next on my shit list; especially after what you’ve done to the Griffons.”
“I gave them a chance to leave.” Skyfall said with little remorse. “They fought… and lost, it’s as simple as that. I’m a businessman first and foremost; not like that mad dog, Stinger or that indulgent pig, Ridgeback. Killing those Griffons was nothing personal.”
“Well, then let me assure you it won’t be personal when I rip your goddamn wings off and drag you back to the lethal injection table.” Hunter narrowed his eyes.
“I don’t know who or what you were in our world.” Skyfall spread his four wings. “But right now, you’re just a little sparrow mouthing off to a condor.” Skyfall threw his wings forward, sending a barrage of quills at Hunter who remained perfectly still. As they neared him, a cocoon of yellow magic encircled his body and the projectiles splintered. “What!?”
“This sparrow is packing a lot more than just his mouth.” Hunter smiled as the Princesses rose from the streets. Hunter charged in while Skyfall was distracted by the unexpected sight. “Down!” He called. The bubbled lowered and Hunter sank his talons into Skyfall’s body.
“Damn you!” Skyfall opened his beak and brought it down on Hunter.
“Up!” Hunter called, the bubble going around him again.
Skyfall’s beak rebounded against the magical barrier; as a countermeasure he spun and sent his long tail into the sphere, sending Hunter flying like a beach ball. Again he loosed his quills but the chain of shields deflected them with ease. Hunter and Skyfall engaged in a heated aerial battle; Hunter calling for his barrier to be raised and lowered in rapid succession as he tried to land some kind of meaningful hit. Biology was not in his favor though as Skyfall’s natural maneuverability and offense far surpassed his own. Sensing a stalemate, Skyfall turned his attention to the Princesses. He bombarded them with quills and dive-bomb passes, keeping Hunter at bay with his lengthy tail.
“Ugh!” Luna grunted. “Hunter, we cannot sustain these barriers much longer!”
“Okay, new idea!” Hunter said as he sailed between them. “Shield him!”
“What!?” Twilight asked.
“I understand his plan, Twilight.” Celestia went to her side. “The three of us can hold him for a few moments."
“Understood, sister.” Luna joined them.
They lowered their shields and encased Skyfall in a massive field of magic. He thrashed against the walls, the three Princesses struggling to hold him inside. Hunter flew up and braced himself against the bubble, using all his strength to begin pushing it towards the castle. They picked up speed and as they were upon the ruin, Hunter called for them to release their magic. Momentum sent Skyfall crashing into the castle, nearly bringing it down entirely as the ancient stone and wood gave way. They pursued the fallen creature, but the rubble burst and forced them to retreat to safety as Skyfall returned to the air. Bloody and injured, Skyfall scowled at them with an intense rage.
“I’m not so egotistical as to press my luck.” Skyfall sent another wave of quills at them, as they raised a barrier to defend he quickly dove over the side of the mountain and disappeared into the clouds.
Wiped from the fight, Hunter rapidly descended and fell backwards onto the street. Sunset galloped over and cradled him in her hooves. “Hunter!?” She raised his head.
“I’m… okay.” He promised.
“Hunter.” Celestia landed beside them, followed soon by Luna and Twilight. “Is he alright?”
“A little mouth to mouth wouldn’t hurt.” He said with a tired laugh.
“He’s fine.” Sunset smiled up at her.
“That was intense.” Twilight sighed. “But at least we’ve reclaimed the city.”
“Indeed, I shall inform the Griffons that they may return to their homes.” Luna teleported away to see to the matter.
“He’s going to be a hard one to catch.” Hunter sat up under his own power. “Simply getting in close is a battle all its own, I just couldn’t land anything.”
“If I may.” Celestia cut in. “Perhaps it would be of benefit to take Hunter to Mount Aris.”
“What's that?" Hunter asked., "Sounds like a resort.”
“Mount Aris is the home of the Hippogriffs.” Twilight informed. “Princess Celestia is right, maybe they have something that can help you fight these things.”
“Worth as shot.” Hunter stood. “With Skyfall gone, we’re back to zero leads.”
“We should stay and help the Griffons get settled back in.” Sunset suggested. “Make sure that monster is really gone so they feel safe.”
“A wise choice.” Celestia commended. “I will have Luna return to Canterlot to see to things there while I remain with you for the time being.”
“I wish the world didn’t always have to be in peril for us to spend some time together.” Twilight laughed, happy to have the chance to be alongside her mentor.
“As do I, Twilight.” Celestia fully shared her sentiment.
Luna soon returned with Rainbow Dash, Gilda and the citizens of Griffonstone. Celestia and Twilight spoke to them, assuring the Griffons that the danger was over and they could return to their lives. Hunter aided in the burial of those that were lost and honored their bravery in defending their home. Sunset, Rainbow Dash and Gilda watched the small ceremony from afar until Hunter rejoined their company.
“That was a lovely speech.” Sunset complimented his eulogy.
“Yeah.” Gilda looked out at the mourning families. “Thank you.”
Hunter laid his talon to the Gilda's shoulder. “Skyfall will be brought to justice. Not just for his crimes in my world, but for the ones in yours too.”
“Count on it.” Rainbow Dash put her hoof around her shaken friend. Hunter and Sunset left the pair to share a few moments together as they headed back into the city.
“How are you holding up?” Sunset asked.
“Still standing.” He gave her a confident smile.
“Hunter, don’t push yourself over the limit because you feel you have to.” She sternly reminded. “You’ve already been in three huge battles in just a couple of days, not to mention the venom poisoning.”
Hunter lowered his head and slowly nodded. “Okay, Sunny. I’ll take a day to rest up before we head out to Mount Aris.”
“Good.” She smiled in relief.
With Griffonstone returned to some semblance of normalcy, the group headed back down the mountain. Celestia parted ways with them as they passed Canterlot and the others returned home to find Spike and the rest of the girls waiting near the castle.
“Thank goodness.” Fluttershy sighed. “We were starting to get worried.”
“Sorry.” Twilight apologized as she landed, releasing Sunset from her magical carriage. “We stayed to make sure the city was safe.”
“So, you won then?” Applejack asked.
“Not exactly.” Sunset shook her head. “Griffonstone is okay, but Skyfall got away.”
“Oh dear, he must truly be a terror to escape even with the Princesses with you.” Rarity noted.
“He’s some kind of prehistoric creature.” Twilight informed. “Even Celestia and Luna haven’t seen one like it before.”
“At least you all made it back safe and sound.” Pinkie added.
“So what do we do now?” Spike asked as he landed on Twilight’s back.
“I’m going to be taking Hunter and Sunset to Mount Aris the day after tomorrow.” She relayed. “Hunter is going to do some training with the Hippogriffs.”
“Boot camp all over again.” Hunter said with a mild laugh. “I’ve been getting by in this body so far; but just getting by isn’t going to cut it from here on out.”
“What can we do to help in the meantime?” Fluttershy asked.
“Just keep your eyes and ears open.” Hunter said plainly. “Nothing much else to do unfortunately.”
“School is back in session tomorrow.” Twilight looked over her fellow staff. “After that, I’m going to be suspending classes until this is over. Let’s just focus on the day to day and try to relax while we have the chance.”
“Alright, dear.” Rarity nodded. “We’ll see you in the morning then.”
As they set out for home; Spike put himself to work preparing dinner for the returning trio. Twilight, Sunset and Hunter went to the study and collapsed into the chairs, thoroughly exhausted.
“Hearing you mention school, I should go back and make an appearance there myself.” Sunset said as she stared up at the ceiling. “Otherwise I’m going to wind up on milk cartons.”
“That’s a good idea.” Twilight concurred. “Just keep your book with you, I’ll send a message if anything happens.”
“Will do.” Sunset saluted. “You coming with, Hunter? I know everyone would love to see you again.”
“Sure.” Hunter perked at the thought. “I could use a little time on two legs.”
They talked for a while until Spike rang the dinner bell. After a good meal, Sunset and Hunter headed back up to the mirror room to return to the human world.
“See you soon.” Twilight waved.
“You bet.” Sunset hugged her.
“Hey Sunny, we get our clothes back on the other side, right?” Hunter asked.
“Yes.” She stepped up beside him.
“Damn.” He snapped his fingers with a disappointed grin.
“Go!” Sunset pushed him back through with an eye roll. “Bye, Twilight.” She glanced back at her before jumping through herself. Appearing on the opposite end, she found Hunter checking his pockets.
“That is just weird.” He muttered, finding his wallet and personal effects where they were before.
“Come on, hopefully my car hasn’t been towed.” Sunset thumbed towards the parking lot. They found her car where she had parked it and a note was secured under the windshield wiper; it was from Fluttershy, letting Sunset know that she had handled covering her absence.
Hunter jumped in the passenger seat as Sunset slid behind the wheel. “You can just drop me off at a motel.”
“You can stay with me.” Sunset fired up the engine. “I don’t mind.”
“Oh.” He nodded with a light smile. “Okay, thanks.”
When the short trip came to an end, Sunset led him inside and started hitting the lights. “Make yourself at home.” She headed down the hall to her room. “Be back in a few.”
Hunter wandered into the kitchen and grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge. Returning to the living room, he hit the couch and turned on the news. He soon heard footsteps and looked over the back of the couch to see a pajama clad Sunset carrying a pillow and blanket. “Cute PJ’s.” He chuckled, receiving a pillow to the face.
“Here.” She laughed as she sat beside him, offering him the blanket as well.
“Thanks, Sunny.” He set them to his opposite side. “This is a nice place, seems a bit out of the price range for a high school student though.”
“Yeah.” Sunset sighed. “When I was first sent to this world I had to learn on the fly. A lot of what I did back then wasn’t…. legal, per say; but I was able to get enough money to afford this place. It was a repossession, so I got it for cheap; it also needed a lot of work but time was something I had more than enough of.” She looked around her home. “But between my job, Rainboom performances and my game streaming, I make enough to live off of the honest way.”
“You’ve led an interesting life.” Hunter noted with a laugh.
“Says you.” She kicked his knee. “Secret government agent.”
“Fair enough.” Hunter conceded, his eyes held on hers and he patted her leg. “You should get some sleep, you’ve got school tomorrow young lady.”
Sunset snickered and nodded. “Yeah, and days’ worth of lecture to catch up on.” She groaned and got to her feet. “Night, Hunter.”
“Goodnight, Sunny.” He watched her head down the hall before settling into the cushions, losing himself in the droning of the news anchor.
Sunset woke up to the smell of something amazing. A bit confused, she headed out into the kitchen to find Hunter making breakfast.
“Hunter?” She looked over the pair of pans on the range.
“Morning, Sunny.” He smiled over at her as he worked. “Hope you don’t mind, I helped myself to the kitchen.”
“No… thank you.”
“Oh, did you want some too?” He asked
“I…” Sunset stammered.
“Kidding.” He winked.
“Ugh, it’s too early for you.” She slapped his arm and went to the fridge, pouring herself a glass of orange juice.
“I’m going to head into town and take care of some things, I’ll meet you after school.” He informed.
“Okay.” Sunset muttered through the glass as she raised it to her lips. She sat down as he finished cooking; soon enough he laid a plate of au gratin potatoes with diced bell peppers and scrambled eggs with spinach before her. “Is this you being nice or advertising your domestic skills?”
“Can’t it be both?” He asked with a laugh as he sat across from her. Sunset looked down at the plate, her mind realizing just how natural this situation felt to her. Hunter saw her not eating and paused. “Sorry, was this too much? I just figured…”
“No, no.” She shook her head and smiled. “This is just… nice, thank you.”
“No problem." He smiled back and returned to eating.
After breakfast they parted ways for the time being, with Sunset heading to school to let everyone know she was still alive. With everything that had happened over the last few days, the school grounds were a comforting sight.
“Hey, Sunset.” Flash jogged over as she approached the main building.
“Flash, hi.” She waved.
“Finally get over that fever?” He asked.
Sunset pieced together what Fluttershy must have told the school. “Oh, yes.” She smiled innocently. “Doing much better now.”
“Great.” He walked with her into the halls. “We were getting kind of worried. But Fluttershy said she was visiting you and had it covered. It’s good to have you back.”
“Well, I’ll only be back today.” She noted.
“How come?”
“I’m heading out of town for a while.” She quickly thought of a story. “Some extended family business, they called while I was sick; which wasn’t exactly what I needed.”
“That’s a shame.” He halted at the door to his first class. “Well, take it easy. I’ll see you when I see you, I guess.”
“Right, thanks for checking up on me.” She smiled and continued on. Entering her first class, she sat beside Fluttershy who was relieved to see her.
“Sunset.” Fluttershy twisted in her chair to face her. “You’re back.”
“Only for today, but yeah.” She nodded. “Thanks for covering for me.”
“Of course.” Fluttershy leaned closer to whisper. “If you aren’t staying, im guessing things in Equestria aren’t settled yet.”
“Not by a long shot.” Sunset whispered back. “But, Hunter is here and he’s helping us.”
“Hunter?” The name brought back all sorts of memories. “Is he here now?”
“He’ll meet us after school.”
“It will be nice to see him again.” Fluttershy smiled brightly.
Their talk was interrupted as the teacher called the class to attention. Sunset got back into things as much as she could, her mind heavy with far more pressing matters than equations and history. Over the course of the day she was able to reunite with her friends, letting them know the basic situation and that it was far from over. As the final bell rang, the girls left the school to find a familiar face waiting for them. Hunter sat on the brick wall that surrounded the school grounds, he waved to them and jumped down as Pinkie began sprinting over to him.
“Hunter!” She dove into him, being caught and taken for a swing as they hugged.
“Hey, Bubblegum.” He laughed and scooped her up into his arms. “Long time no see.” Pinkie chuckled as he carried her back over to the others. Putting her down, he turned his attention to Applejack. “Ah, there’s the literal apple of my eye.”
“Hi Hunter.” She hugged him. “Good to see ya in one piece.”
“Most definitely.” Rarity said, hugging him as well. “Sunset told us what’s been going on.”
“Yeah, this is up there as far as my craziest jobs.” He admitted, fist bumping Rainbow Dash. “How’s it been, Skittles.”
“Awesome as ever.” Rainbow Dash noted with a smile.
Hunter went to Fluttershy and pulled her in. “Shy, you keeping these rowdy ladies out of trouble?”
Fluttershy giggled and nodded. “I try my best.”
“And since the world is still under human control, I’m guessing you’ve been keeping it reigned in too.” He smiled and hugged Twilight.
“I did promise.” She reminded.
“Well, how about we go somewhere more relaxing to catch up.” Rarity suggested.
“Good idea, I’m starving.” Pinkie held her rumbling stomach.
“Diner it is.” Sunset said, heading for the parking lot.
With a bit of carpooling, they headed for the local eatery and claimed a quiet, corner booth. Sunset and Hunter relayed the full tale of what was happening and of the battles they had already fought; the only detail omitted being their steamy make out session on Twilight’s terrace.
“That’s nuts.” Rainbow Dash said, taking a lengthy suckle of her smoothie.
“I’m sorry we can’t be of much help.” Twilight added.
“It’s okay.” Sunset assured. “This is way different than anything you’d be prepared for.”
“Yeah.” Hunter concurred. “I know what I’m doing and even I’m having a hard time with it all; and this is my job.”
“We’ll certainly be with you in spirit.” Rarity promised.
“I’ll keep my fingers, toes and eyes crossed for you.” Pinkie vowed, demonstrating as such as her pupils closed in on each other.
“It’ll definitely be nerve racking just sitting on our hands and hoping you make it back.” Applejack sighed.
“Don’t worry.” Hunter put his arm around her. “I promise I’ll come back to you.”
“I was talking to Sunset.” She smirked, pinching his hand.
“Ow.” Hunter pulled his hand back, rubbing the sore spot. “You Applejacks are all the same.” He noted under the girls’ laughter.
From lunch, the group moved on to the mall where they could freely wander as they talked. Rarity kept a keen eye on Hunter and Sunset, noticing how they would hang off of each other as the day progressed. When she found a moment to get Sunset alone, Rarity took the opportunity to investigate further.
“Sunset, dear.” Rarity stepped up beside her. “I can’t help but notice that you and Hunter seem much… closer than before.”
Sunset flustered a bit at the suggestion. “Not really… I mean, we’ve been through a lot over the past few days is all.”
“Please, darling.” Rarity laid her hand to Sunset’s shoulder. “You two may not notice how you’re acting around each other, but I certainly have. There isn’t a thing wrong with it, I think it’s lovely.”
Sunset sighed and looked around to make sure the others were out of ear shot. “Okay, Rarity. I’ll be honest, but you can’t tell the others.”
“You have my word.” Rarity set her hand over her heart, eager to be privy to such gossip. “So, are you two an item?”
“No.” Sunset shook her head. “Well, not really… I don’t know.”
“Did something happen?” Rarity asked, looking for clarity from the jumbled response.
“We… kissed.” She shyly admitted.
“You did?” Rarity struggled to whisper.
“We almost did a lot more.” Sunset continued. “But, we stopped ourselves.”
“Oh, oh my.” Rarity’s face flushed.
“I like Hunter.” Sunset looked into the toy store to see Hunter and Pinkie battling plush toys. “But we just don’t see how it could work out. I mean, my life is already crazy and his is even more so. He’d have to be away so often and… I’d never know if he was going to come back or not.”
“I see.” Rarity nodded. “I suppose that would be a stressful relationship. Still, it’s obvious that he really cares about you.”
“I know.” Sunset let out a long breath. “We said we’d talk about it after this was over. We’ve got enough on our plate at the moment.”
“Well, I may not be an expert on relationships but I can say this. As cliché as the adage is, it is often true that love finds a way.”
“Love?” Sunset looked at her with great scrutiny. “That seems a bit much.”
“Maybe.” Rarity smiled. “But not entirely unreasonable, eh?”
Sunset looked back to see Applejack holding both of them by the ear for causing such a ruckus in the store; only to receive a foam dart in the back of the head from Rainbow Dash for her efforts. She smiled and sighed in thought. “Maybe.”
Back in Equestria, the dark shadow of Skyfall soared over the mostly empty southern plains. Spying a familiar, quaint village he spiraled down from the sky and touched down in its center. He noticed a few, armored stallions on spikes like grim totems.
“Ridgeback!” He called out.
“Keep it down.” A heavy baritone responded. From between the homes, the muscular brute stepped. Thick brown fur, coating a frame similar to a silverback gorilla and with the massive head of a dire boar on his shoulders. Sharp spines dotted his back and his sheer weight was so great that even his knuckles left imprints in the dirt as he loped. “What the hell brought you flying back?”
“We have a problem.” The great bird shuffled closer. “We’re being tracked by someone from our world.”
Ridgeback scratched his porcine nose. “You sure?”
“He told me himself.” Skyfall noted. “Said his name was Hunter, ring a bell?”
“Nope.” Ridgeback answered plainly.
“He isn’t alone either, he has help from magic users.” Skyfall continued.
“Like those sissy unicorns?”
“No, they fly. From what I learned from the Griffons they are called alicorns and they represent the royalty of this world.”
“Guess it was only a matter of time before the authorities came after us.” Ridgeback laughed. “Same shit, different world. I’ve already dealt with a few groups of the armored ones, I’m guessing they work for those alicorn things.”
“Did you kill them all?” Skyfall inquired.
“Not all of them, just enough to keep the ponies here in line.” Ridgeback pointed westward to a group of tall hills. “I’ve got most of them working in a mine, this place is filled with gems and jewels. I’ve got their wives and kids locked up in a few houses to keep their minds on work and not running for help. There’s a market for the stones, I’ll start working my way into the economy and get myself set up nice a pretty.”
“That won’t mean anything until we deal with this Hunter and the alicorns.” Skyfall reminded. “Apparently they’ve already taken out Stinger.”
Again, Ridgeback snorted a laugh. “Not surprising, that idiot probably just went wild and drew all kinds of attention to himself.” He sighed heavily. “Fine, stick with me and we’ll figure out what to do. You can help me keep this little shits reigned in.”
“Fine.” Skyfall conceded.
“Don’t get your feathers rustled.” Ridgeback noticed the nervous look in Skyfall’s eyes. “This place is isolated and there doesn’t seem to be any type of long distance communication. If we keep control of this village and the area, they won’t be able to track us down without a good dose of blind luck.” He started back through the village and Skyfall followed. “So, what does this guy look like?”
“I don’t know the species.” Skyfall shook his head. “He wasn’t anything I’ve come across or have been told about so far. He resembled a Griffon but he was taller and a starkly different color.”
“Alright, we can ask the ponies here if they know anything. “Ridgeback grumbled. “We know he’s looking for us though, and we can use that to our advantage. I’ve spent enough time being chased to know how to handle this.” He laughed to himself as they headed for the mine.
After an active afternoon, Sunset and Hunter returned to her place for the night. Sunset immediately went to the kitchen and started up her single cup, beverage brewer.
“Want some coffee?” She asked.
“Please.” Hunter nodded as he sat at the table.
“I really needed today.” Sunset said as she placed a cup under the nozzle. “More than I thought I did.”
“It’s easy not to realize how heavy things are getting.” Hunter stated.
“I guess so.” She sighed. “You ready to get back to work tomorrow?”
“Plenty ready.” He smiled.
As the machine sputtered out a serving of coffee she swapped the cups and started the second. “I wish I had your ability to compartmentalize things.” She sat his cup before him. “Even trying to have some fun I couldn’t stop thinking about everything going on in Equestria.”
“It’s not about compartmentalizing, it’s about acceptance.” Hunter took a light sip. “I’m always aware of what’s at stake and I’m always thinking about it.” He wrapped his hands around the hot cup. “There’s a very active part of my mind that knows that today might have been the last day I get to see those girls.” He said solemnly. “Even so, I don’t let that infect the time we spend together. I don’t let it weigh me down and I certainly don’t allow it to weigh on them either.” He smiled to himself. “My philosophy has always been to live each day like it’s your last, but just don’t act like it might be.”
“I never really thought about it in that way.” Sunset sat across from him with her own cup.
“It’s only because that’s how my life is.” Hunter shrugged. “We each develop our own philosophy based on our own circumstances.”
“Makes sense, I guess that’s why I was so terrible when I was first sent here.” Sunset said in reflection. “I was angry… and hurt, so I just hurt others to keep myself safe from feeling like that again. Which… is exactly what you were doing, now that I think about it.”
“Yeah, sounds about right.” Hunter nodded.
“Maybe on some subconscious level that’s why I was so set on you, because deep down I knew how you were feeling.” She smiled across the table at him.
“Or maybe it was just because you thought I was hot.” He grinned.
Sunset sighed and lowered her head. “Can you not ruin a moment for once?” She asked with a laugh.
“Hey, you know I hate keeping things too serious.” Hunter innocently replied. “This conversation has been way too introspective.” He noted, taking a long drink.
They changed the subject, spending the early hours of the evening just talking and relaxing. Enjoying themselves as much as they could before they returned to the reality of their situation in the morning.
After a quick, microwavable breakfast, Sunset and Hunter returned to the school and stepped back into Equestria. Heading downstairs, they found Twilight readying her travel bag.
“Morning, Twilight.” Sunset waved to garner her attention.
“Hey, you’re here early.” She noted. “That’s great. I’m nearly ready myself.”
“So, where is Mount Aris?” Hunter asked.
“Technically, it’s outside of Equestria.” Twilight informed as she continued packing. “We’ll have to go by train, and it’s a bit of a ride.”
Spike flew into the room with several texts in his arms. “Here you go, Twilight.”
“Thanks, Spike.” She added them to her bag. “That should be about it, take care of things while we’re gone.”
“Will do.” Spike saluted.
The three of them walked to the station and boarded the train out of town. As the train left the station, Hunter looked out the window and watched the unfamiliar world pass by. He could hear Sunset and Twilight talking, but only picked up pieces of their conversation as his mind was already occupied with streams of thought about what came next. Despite being one not to believe in luck, he found himself secretly hoping for some good fortune in this trip. He eventually freed himself from his contemplation and asked Twilight about the history of the Hippogriffs, wanting some insight before he met them in person. Twilight told them the story of the Storm King and how the Hippogriffs had fled to the sea, became sea ponies and founded Seaquestria. She continued with how she and her friends helped see to the Storm King’s defeat and the return of the sea ponies to land, now claiming both Seaquestria and Mount Aris as their homes. After several hours, the train at last pulled into the Mount Aris station and the trio disembarked.
Hunter took a deep breath of the salty air and stretched. “This place must have a hell of beach. Too bad bikinis aren’t a thing here.” He smiled over at Sunset.
“Sunset, you okay with flying from here?” Twilight asked.
“Sure, it’s faster.” She agreed, heading over to Hunter. “I’m going to jump to the conclusion that you don’t mind?” She asked wryly.
“Maybe.” He toned, taking her up into his arms.
“Just fly.” She laced her forelegs around his neck.
“Yes, ma’am.” Hunter took to the air with Twilight.
Twilight led them up to the Hippogriff village, the place lively as ever with the spry species enthusiastically going about their day. The locals recognized the Princess of Friendship and immediately welcomed them to their home.
“Hello, every creature.” Twilight waved.
“Princess Twilight.” One of the Hippogriffs approached. “How wonderful to see you again, to what do we owe the honor of your visit.”
“Actually, I’m here for my friend.” Twilight gestured back to Hunter. “He may look like a Hippogriff, but he’s actually from another world.”
“Is that true?” The Hippogriff looked over the stranger in confusion.
“It is.” Hunter nodded. “I’m looking to speak with whomever leads your kind.”
“Well, that would be Queen Novo.” The Hippogriff paused in thought. “But she remains in Sequestria and has left the surface in the capable talons of Windshear.”
“Would he see me?” Hunter asked.
“I have little doubt.” The Hippogriff assured. “Follow me.”
They were taken through the village and out into the harmonizing heights. Sunset looked about in search of the source of the calming melody. “What is that? It’s beautiful.”
“According to Sweetie Belle, it’s a naturally occurring phenomenon that exists only in this location.” Twilight detailed. “The natural shape and slope of the area causes the wind from the ocean to make this song when it blows through.”
“Indeed.” Their guide nodded. “Windshear comes here to meditate.”
“If you’re going to be at one with the universe, this seems the best place.” Hunter noted.
Beneath one of the larger trees, they came upon an older Hippogriff sitting serenely with his eyes closed. As they approached, he smiled and nodded towards them.
“Night Diver, you’ve brought visitors.” His eyes opened. “Ah, Princess Twilight. Welcome back to Mount Aris.”
“Thank you, sir.” Twilight tipped her head.
“Windshear, the Princess and her friends have come seeking help.” Night Diver explained.
“What is it that we can do for you?” Windshear asked as he stood.
Hunter stepped up to him. “Long story short, I’m from an alternate world and we’re tracking down two highly dangerous individuals who also found their way here. I’m not really a Hippogriff, but I’ve been given the body of one and I need your help to master it. I’ve been making due but if I’m going to win, I need to know how to fight like a Hippogriff.”
“That is quite the tale.” Windshear admitted.
“It’s true.” Twilight confirmed. “Can you help him?”
“We ourselves have only returned to being Hippogriffs not long ago.” Windshear stroked his beak. “But I will offer you what I can.”
“That’s all I ask.” Hunter lowered his head. “Thank you.”
“Of course, young one.” Windshear laid his talon over Hunter’s shoulder. “Hippogriffs are a proud and closely bonded kind, if you were given this form then it must mean you are a Hippogriff at heart. We should speak with High Tide, he is part of Queen Novo’s royal navy and often leads the instruction of new recruits.”
Hunter glanced back to Sunset and Twilight. “I’m going to go where I have to for this, so don’t wait up.”
“We’ll be in the village when you get back.” Sunset promised.
Hunter followed as Windshear led him back though the village. While they walked, the elder Hippogriff pondered the situation.
“So, who exactly are these enemies you seek?” He asked.
“I’ve already dealt with one, he was something called a Vulpion.” Hunter began. “The second is some type of prehistoric dragon/avian hybrid and at the moment the third is unknown.”
“My, you were quite serious about the dangerous part.”
“Yeah, I’ve already gone a round with the bird… I was completely outclassed in the offense department.” Hunter admitted. “I’ve only recently learned to fly but I need to be faster. I feel like I’m fighting this body to get it to do what I want.”
“When your mind and body are not as one, it makes sense that you would struggle.” Windshear nodded understandingly. “In your world you are…?”
“Human.” Hunter answered. “I’m a soldier in my world and I’ve trained my body for combat.”
“But now you are trying to apply human technique to a Hippogriff body.” Windshear surmised.
“Exactly, and it isn’t going too well.” Hunter sighed.
“I understand. You will have to be taught from the beginning, as if you were a fledgling.”
“I’ll do whatever I have to.” Hunter said surely. “Lives are on the line.”
“Spoken like a true Hippogriff.” Windshear noted with a smile.
Hunter was taken to the docks where the royal naval vessels came and went on their long journeys across the seas. It was here where Hunter was introduced to High Tide and he explained his situation once more; with Windshear there to verify the account, High Tide agreed to take Hunter under his wing. He was asked to return in the morning so they could begin, so for the remainder of the day he returned to Sunset and Twilight who had taken a pair of rooms in the lodge that served as a rest stop for tourists.
The following dawn, Hunter met with High Tide in the Harmonizing Heights and began his crash course in being a Hippogriff. Pushing aside his years of training and starting from square one, he was walked through everything from anatomy to talon care and basic flight. High Tide put him through a series of drills that were used in helping young Hippogriffs refine their movement in the air to maximize output and minimize effort. Only stopping to eat, Hunter then went into drills used for training the Hippogriffs of Queen Novo’s navy. High Tide also instructed him on a number of exercises he could do on his own to develop specific muscles that would aid in his speed and strength. Hunter spent the rest of the day doing sets of these routines and flying through the training course that was set up. It was past dark before he returned to the lodge; he rapped on Sunset’s door and wearily staggered in when she opened.
“There you are.” Sunset looked him over. “Have you seriously been at it all day?”
“Not all day.” Hunter insisted. “I went to the bathroom a few times.” He laughed weakly as Sunset got him over to the bed and laid him down, he sprawled out and sighed in exhaustion. “That’s nice.”
“How did it go?” Sunset got on the bed beside him.
“Good… good.” He answered through a long breath. “At first my mind and muscles were screaming at each other but neither of them were listening… like an argument in a comment section. But I see what I’ve been doing wrong and I’m getting a handle on things.” He twisted onto his stomach to reach the edge of the bed. “Do me a favor and roll me over to the chair.”
“Stop it.” Sunset crawled over and began massaging his back and shoulders with her hooves. “You can sleep in the bed tonight.”
“Trust me that much, huh?” He smiled.
“Like you’re in any condition to try anything.” She patted the top of his head.
“Fair point.” He chuckled into the sheets. “Thanks, Sunny.”
“Least I can do.” She continued to massage him until he fell asleep. Laying the blanket over him, she curled up at his side and joined him in slumber.
Hunter spent the next three days training with High Tide from sun up to sun down. Pushing his body to its limit he strove to improve his abilities as much and as quickly as possible. High Tide was impressed by his determination, having put him through the paces at twice the rate as he would a standard recruit. Near the end of the third day, the two of them sat as Hunter downed another canteen of water.
“You’ve been doing great, Hunter. “High Tide patted his back with an approving laugh. “How’re you feeling?”
Hunter swallowed and let out a heavy breath. “Ready to take on a couple of monsters.”
“I’ll bet. Your speed has tripled and you’re making my obstacle course look obsolete.” High Tide looked back over the trials he had set up. “I don’t know if there is much more I can show you.”
“Actually there is.” Hunter pointed out towards the ocean. “I’m interested in this whole "sea pony" thing. How are you able to change form at will?”
“That’s easy, with this.” High Tide raised his chin, displaying the necklace he wore. “This necklace contains a piece of Queen Novo’s magical pearl. Even a fragment this small can imbue a Hippogriff with the ability to move between land and sea.”
“You think I could borrow one?” Hunter asked. “I could use the advantage.”
“I see no reason as to why not, but you should ask Windshear.” High Tide suggested.
“Right.” Hunter stood and held out his talon. “Thank you for all this, High Tide.”
“It was my pleasure.” He took Hunter's talon. “Given your mission, I hope my teaching can aid in the protection of this world.”
“It will, I’ll make sure of it.” Hunter vowed. With what little energy he had left, Hunter returned to the village and made his way to Windshear’s home. The village patriarch answered his knock and eagerly welcomed him inside.
“Hello, young one.” He greeted as he closed the door behind them. “How are you progressing?”
“It seems I’ve graduated.” Hunter informed with a smile.
“Going to be on your way then?”
“Soon, but High Tide said I should talk to you about one of those necklaces.” Hunter pointed to Windshear’s own accessory. “I don’t need one permanently, but I think it will come in handy for what's coming up.”
“I imagine it would.” Windshear nodded. “Unfortunately, we have no more in the village… but…” Windshear reached up and removed his necklace. “If it will help this noble cause, I will allow you mine.”
Hunter reached out and took the necklace. “Thank you.” Hunter humbly lowered his head.
“Just make sure you succeed, so that it can be safely returned.” He smiled.
“You got it.” Hunter assured.
“There is one other thing I would like to offer you.” Windshear motioned for him to follow. “As head of the village, I am in possession of certain artifacts of our culture. After some thought, given the nature of your task, I ultimately decided that there is one in particular that should interest you.” He led him through his home to a room that resembled a museum; filled with artifacts of the Hippogriff species. Windshear gestured to a set of silver armor, Hunter stepped past him and observed the exquisite mail. “This is the Armor of Sky Spear, named for its owner who fought in the original battle against the Storm King. When we returned from the sea, we discovered it alongside the bones of the hero who sacrificed himself so that many may escape into the ocean. The armor we wear now is based on this suit, although this set in particular is far sturdier and accompanied by bladed gauntlets which we no longer need in these peaceful times.” Windshear set his talon to the back of Hunter's neck, giving him a confident squeeze. “These creatures you face are no doubt mighty and in spite of your training here, you still lack the natural edge given to them by nature’s design. Now that you are more able to fight as a Hippogriff, I can think of no creature better to carry this armor into battle once more.”
Hunter ran his talon across the breast plate and looked back at him unsurely. “Are you sure?”
“I am.” Windshear nodded. “And I know that Sky Spear would be honored knowing that a warrior like you would be using it to defend this world from villains, just as he did so long ago.”
“Thank you.” Hunter smiled and returned his eyes to the gleaming armor.
Twilight and Sunset sat over dinner in the lobby of the lodge. Their eyes were drawn to the doors upon hearing numerous gasps from the Hippogriffs around them.
“Hunter.” Sunset’s eyes widened as she beheld her armored friend.
“Not bad, huh?” Hunter asked as he approached their table. “A parting gift from Windshear to help in the effort, as well as this.” He tapped his claw against his necklace.
“A piece of Novo’s pearl.” Twilight smiled. “Now you can use your sea pony form.”
“Does this mean you’ve completed your training?” Sunset asked.
“Yeah, we can head back tomorrow.” He nodded.
“Alright then.” Twilight stood from the table. “I’ll get us tickets for the morning train.”
As Twilight headed to the station, Sunset rose and ran her hoof over the armor. “Pretty good look for you.”
“The necklace isn’t too much, is it?” He pouted.
“No, Rarity.” She gingerly smacked his beak.
“I’ve got some big shoes to fill in this thing.” Hunter said solemnly. “But I’m a lot more confident about our rematch now.”
Twilight teleported before them bearing three tickets back home. “Okay, we’re all set.”
“Great, then let’s finish dinner.” Sunset suggested as she sat back down.
“Ooh, what are we having?” Hunter pulled up a chair beside her and looked down at her plate.
“Order your own.” She laughed, guarding her food.
“Fine.” He huffed and went to the counter. After their meal and some time relaxing, they went to bed early to ensure that they would be packed and ready for the long ride home in the morning.
Hunter, Sunset and Twilight traveled back to Ponyville and promptly reassembled the team. Not sacrificing any time, they immediately embarked for Canterlot; using the travel time to catch each other up on what had transpired while they were away. Since no one had heard from the Princesses, they had hoped that things were still quiet but upon arrival in the royal city they found much the opposite. A large group of rural ponies were gathered in the castle with the guards working to keep them calm. The looks on their faces were all Hunter needed to see to know what had happened and they hurried to the throne room to meet with the sisters. The throne room was equally active as Luna reviewed a map of the area with several of the guard while Celestia relayed instructions to members of the court.
“Princess.” Twilight offered Celestia a wave to let her know they had arrived.
Celestia noticed them and quickly ended her business. “Thank goodness you have returned.” She hurried over to them.
“What happened?” Hunter asked.
“I trust you saw the ponies outside?” She asked in return.
“Yeah, we did.” Sunset nodded. “Who are they?”
“They are refugees from a trio of settlements to the southwest.” Celestia informed. “They reported an attack from Skyfall.”
“Is everypony alright?” Fluttershy queried.
“Fortunately yes, there were no casualties reported… at least… not as far as the locals are concerned.” Celestia’s eyes lowered painfully.
“What do you mean?” Twilight asked, scared of the answer.
“Two of the squads of royal guard finally returned; one reported an encounter with another creature and only half their numbers survived.” She said shallowly. “We have reason to believe that the remaining squads suffered a similar fate.”
“MIA doesn’t mean dead, Princess.” Hunter shook his head. “If they’re out there, we’ll find them.”
“So what’s the situation now?” Rainbow Dash looked around at all the activity.
“Luna is speaking with the returned guards, they are noting the settlements that were attacked as well as the areas that have already been searched.” Celestia explained. “We are trying to narrow down the number of locations of where these monsters might be hiding.”
“The other one has to be Ridgeback.” Hunter surmised. “I’ll need to talk to the guards that fought him.”
“Of course.” Celestia nodded. “But first, we must make sure that…”
The already hectic scene was interrupted by the doors being flung open. The guards worked to halt the procession of stately ponies that entered the royal hall and held them away from the Princesses.
“Princess Celestia!” The well-dressed stallion at the head of the group called. “We insist that we speak with you!”
“Please.” Celestia approached them. “I can imagine your upset in all this but…”
“This is more than upset.” He insisted. “The city is plagued with word that dangerous creatures are running loose in Equestria. The ponies of Canterlot have already heard of the attack on Griffonstone and now these farmers are here saying much the same. Is nothing being done to stop this?”
“I assure you, we are working diligently to track these beasts down.” Celestia noted.
“Given the range of this news that hardly seems to be the case.” He snorted. “I can promise you that I and many others in Canterlot do not feel safe which is why we are here now, we wish you to see to the city's security."
Sunset watched the entitled stallion carry on in disgust. Her concentration was broken by the sound of mild whining; she looked over to see Hunter gazing at her with pleading eyes and bouncing up and down like a kid who had to go to the bathroom. She smiled and reached up to 'unzip' his beak.
“Sic ‘em, boy.” She patted his cheek.
Hunter sighed in relief, wagging his tongue to loosen it up. “Hey, chucklefuck!” He shouted, silencing the room. He noticed the stallion glance at him as he approached. “Yeah, talking to you Mr. Ed.”
“I beg your pardon, but this doesn’t concern you.” He turned his nose up.
“The hell it doesn’t!” Hunter pushed the guard aside and got in his face, pointing back to Celestia. “The Princess is woefully aware of what is going on and is doing everything in her power to keep everyone safe, even asshats like you. Innocent creatures have already died and even more are in danger as we speak; she’s the one that has to bear that weight, not you." He patted his chest. "And my friends and I are the ones actually out there fighting these goddamn things. All you and your froofy friends have to do is sit in your expensive houses, behind these safe city walls, and shut the fuck up… and you can’t even do that right!” Hunter poked his talon into the stallion’s chest. “I don’t know who the fuck you think you are, but I promise you that you’re not." Hunter took a few steps back, his eyes locked on the stallion's. "Guys like you make me sick; so fuck you and everyone who looks like you!” He pointed back to the door. “Now get your sorry assess out of here or I’m the one you’re going to have to be afraid of!” The stallion and his entourage wearily backed away, offering a quiet apology to the Princess before hurrying out of the room. Hunter turned back and politely cleared his throat. “Attention everyone, please pretend you didn’t just hear all that crazy shit I just said.”
“Hee hee… chucklefuck is a funny name.” Pinkie Pie noted as she wrote it down.
“Pinkie!” Twilight ripped the paper from her hooves and teleported it away.”
“Aww.” She sulked.
Celestia went to Hunter with a lopsided smile. “Well, I’m not entirely certain what all of that meant… but I do have a fair idea. Thank you.”
“Anytime.” Hunter returned to Sunset’s side and zipped his beak back up.
“Good boy.” Sunset patted his head.
It took some time, but order was eventually established. Celestia and Twilight saw to it that the refugees were set up in temporary lodging and Luna utilized all the information they were given to create a map they could work with. Rarity led the girls into the city to help calm the rampant rumors spreading about what was happening and Hunter interviewed the battle-scarred guards to learn what he could about Ridgeback. Reconvening, the team was finally able to speak in the now empty throne room.
“Thank you for all your help.” Celestia sat in her throne with a heavy sigh. “It’s been like this since last night.”
“Of course, Princess.” Twilight nodded.
“We have a deal more to work with at this point.” Luna gestured to the map she had displayed on the easel. “We can make more informed decisions from this point onward.”
“Hunter.” Celestia turned her attention to him. “How do you feel we should proceed?”
“Well, first things first.” He folded his talons. “We need to run a sweep of those settlements and make sure they're clear; that way those ponies can return home. I’d like to take a look around too and see just what went down.” He stepped over to Luna. “How about it, Lulu? You and I can fly down and be back in no time.”
“Very well.” Luna nodded. “And please refrain from calling me that.”
“Noted.” Hunter gave her a thumb up.
“What if you run into them again?” Sunset asked worriedly.
“I’ve got a feeling we won’t.” Hunter shook his head. “To be honest, something is bothering me about these attacks. I can’t say anything for sure until I see for myself though.”
“We will return as quickly as we can.” Luna bid her sister farewell as they started out.
“What shall we do in the meantime?” Rarity asked.
“Not much, at least until they get back.” Rainbow Dash flew over to the map. “You’ve got a lot of ground covered, but there is just as much that hasn’t been searched yet.”
“Yes, and given what has happened to my guard I am hesitant to send more out.” Celestia joined her. “This Ridgeback seems the most fearful of the three.”
“You said that the guard got into a scrap with him, right?” Applejack asked. “What did they see?”
“Given the description, he seems to be a Razorback Boarilla.” Celestia informed. “Their brute strength is nearly unmatched.”
“I’ve actually heard of that one.” Fluttershy thought back to a safari she had gone on. “They’re normally native to tropical areas but have been known to survive in a variety of climates. I heard that they can uproot trees with one arm and break stone with their fists.”
“Why couldn’t he have turned into a puppy or something?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“Guess that would be too easy.” Sunset shrugged, heading for the door. “We should tell those ponies that we’re working on getting them home.”
“I’ll do some research on these Boarilla things.” Twilight motioned for Fluttershy to join her. “Hopefully we can find something useful.”
“Okay.” Fluttershy flew after her towards the library.
Celestia rose from her seat with a deep breath. “This situation has disrupted much. Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, would you assist me in catching up on things?”
“Absolutely, Princess.” Applejack nodded as they followed after her.
“Yeah, we’ll get you caught up in no time.” Rainbow Dash assured as she rushed from the room.
“Doesn’t she want to know what you need us to do first?” Pinkie Pie smiled up at Celestia.
“One can never doubt her enthusiasm.” Celestia opened the door for them as they sought to catch up to her.
Hunter and Luna arrived in the first of the vacated settlements. They landed between the homes to find many demolished; with wood, straw and stone scattered across the area. Calls from the loosed livestock could be heard but there was no sign of the perpetrator.
“This is just wanton destruction.” Luna noted in contempt.
“I know… that’s what is bothering me.” Hunter began walking the area to look for bodies.
“What do you mean?” Luna asked as she followed.
“These guys are killers, but they’re not sloppy; Skyfall in particular.” Hunter began. “He’s an assassin, nothing about this reflects his M.O. Even when he attacked Griffonstone he was looking for information and only killed because he was engaged in a fight.”
“You are saying that it was another creature that did this?”
“No, Skyfall is kind of hard to mistake at this point.” Hunter poked his head into a home, finding nothing as he predicted. “I think this was staged.” He looked westward to where the next settlement awaited. “Let’s check the other locations.”
The second and third settlements were nearly identical to the first, a swathe of destruction with no clear intent. Luna made a sweep of the sky before returning to Hunter’s side.
“There is no further sign of his presence.” She reported. “It seems you are correct in your assumptions. This may seem a dead end, but at least we can confirm that no life was lost.”
“True.” Hunter nodded, staring off into the distance.
“If these attacks were deliberate, what is the message?” Luna sat next to him.
“I don’t think this was his idea.” Hunter finally answered. “I have a feeling after he fought us in the mountains he went running to find Ridgeback.” He sighed in regret. "I ran my mouth off a little too much and told him about Stinger, that probably spooked him."
“If they have indeed joined forces, then that does not bode well.” Luna recalled how difficult it was to face just one of them in combat. “Still, what makes you think this?”
“Ridgeback’s whole criminal career was based on evading the cops, border patrol and FBI. He’s basically a master at shaking a tail and I’ve had friends in the DEA tell me about tactics like this. Groups would raid a set of locations in a seemingly unrelated area. Law officers would investigate and try to look for pieces to a puzzle that doesn’t exist. All the while, the primary target would be moving in the complete opposite direction.”
“These attacks lead west.” Luna turned in the opposite direction. “So we should head east then.”
“That’s what I’m thinking.” Hunter stood. “Let’s get back and give them the all clear.” The duo took to the air and began their flight back to the castle.
Once they had reported back, Celestia began the process of seeing the rural ponies back to their homes. She sent some of the remaining guard with them for protection as well as construction teams to help rebuild their homes. Hunter relayed his plan to investigate eastward, having found some areas on Luna’s map that sparked his interest; with the hour having grown late, they were invited to remain in the castle and set out in the morning when they were refreshed. The hectic and stressful day left the atmosphere heavy; so as the others settled down for the night, Hunter looked for a way to help alleviate the somberness. Applejack, Rarity and Pinkie Pie were sharing a room that overlooked the southern terrace; having just gotten into bed they sat back up at the sound of a country guitar.
“Do you… hear that?” Rarity asked.
“Yeah.” Pinkie Pie nodded. “Sounds like a hoedown.”
“Sure does.” Applejack hopped out of bed and went to the window. “What in tarnation!?” She pulled the window open, looking down on Hunter and a four piece band playing. “Hunter!? What the hay do you think ya’ll are doing!?”
“It's a spur shaking serenade, my little tumbleweed!” He smiled up at her.
“A what!?” Applejack ran her hoof over her face.
“Awww, how sweet.” Pinkie Pie laughed as she squeezed in to take a look.
“Says you.” Applejack sighed.
“Where in Equestria did he find a band at this hour?” Rarity asked as she joined them.
The window two doors down opened and Twilight stuck her head out. “What is going on out here!?” She grumbled.
“It’s a serenade!” Pinkie shouted across. “Isn’t that romantic!”
“How lovely.” Fluttershy appeared above Twilight.
“Sweet Celestia, will you keep it down!” Rainbow Dash’s head appeared above Fluttershy’s. “Applejack, tell your boyfriend to knock it off!”
“He ain’t my boyfriend!” Applejack called back.
“Ow.” Hunter frowned as he strummed his guitar. “I’m right here you know!”
“The whole city knows, darling!” Rarity assured.
The highest window opened and Celestia observed the scene. “Hunter!” She called down. “What are you doing!?”
“Being charming!” He called back. “Does milady have any requests!?”
“Yes, go to bed!” She shook her head, not being able to hold back her smile.
Hunter ceased his playing and the band followed suit. “You heard the lady, sorry.” He watched as the band took up their instruments and disappeared into the night. With a shrug, Hunter laid the guitar over his shoulder and headed back inside.
“Finally!” Rainbow Dash groaned as she, Fluttershy and Twilight closed their window.
“Big goofball.” Applejack muttered as she shut the window.
“He’s just trying to be entertaining, dear.” Rarity noted. “Sunset did say that was his way, and after today you can’t blame him for trying to lighten the mood.”
“Yeah, his heart is in the right place.” Pinkie Pie added as she bounced back into her bed.
“I know, it’s his brain I wonder about sometimes.” Applejack laughed as she slid back under the covers.
Sunset perked as her door opened and Hunter returned. She chuckled at the look on his face and sat up on the bed. “So, did that go like you planned?”
“Oddly enough she wasn’t a fan.” He smiled. “Then mom yelled at me.”
“Okay, I’ve got to ask now.” Sunset rested her chin on her hoof. “What is your weird fixation with Applejack? I mean, I know we’re not committed to anything but do I need to be worried?”
Hunter laughed and got into his own bed. “You want to know the truth?”
“Yeah, I do.”
He sighed and sat against the wall. “When I was first taken from the orphanage and put into the training program I was far from the suave agent you see before you.” His smile faded. “It was rough, I knew I wasn’t supposed to be there; that that’s not what a kid’s life is supposed to be like. I fought them every step of the way and fell into a dark place... I was tap dancing on losing it but that’s when Heartland came along.”
“Heartland?” Sunset repeated.
“She was in the program for a year before I showed up.” He smiled again as he thought of her. “I don’t know why, but she decided to be there for me. She stuck with me and kept me grounded, told me things would be okay and that being there meant I was strong and special; she kept me moving forward until I was excelling all on my own… probably saved my life.” He looked over at Sunset. “Applejack is just like her, right down to the accent; that’s why I play with her so much… being around her reminds me of one of the only good parts of my childhood.”
“I never would have guessed.” Sunset reflected on the story. “You know, Applejack would probably like to know that, both of them.”
“Naw.” Hunter shook his head with a short laugh. “If she knew the truth then she’d just find my attention endearing, that’s no fun.”
“Heaven forbid.” Sunset laughed. "So, where is Heartland now?"
Hunter let out a hard breath. "Well, like I said, what I do is dangerous work."
"Oh." Sunset gasped. "I'm... sorry."
"I wish I could say more than that's just the nature of the game." He said emptily. "She was a great person... deserved better in life."
Sunset got off the bed and went to his side, laying her hoof on his talon. “Thank you for telling me that, it means a lot that you'd share all that with me.”
“You’re the first person I’ve ever actively talked about my past with.” He smiled up at her. “Feels kind of nice.”
“Yeah, it does.”
"You know, I don't think I'll ruin the moment this time." Hunter squeezed her hoof.
"Appreciated." Sunset bent down and kissed his cheek. "Goodnight, Hunter."
"Night, Sunny." Hunter rolled over as she extinguished the lamps and returned to her bed.
Based on what Hunter had told them, there were three locations on Luna’s map that peaked the group’s interest; so they divided into teams to inspect each. The first locale was Sweet Acorn Orchard, Rarity offered to lead a team of Twilight, Applejack and Fluttershy to the farm as she had already met the residents. The second locale was the railway town of Dodge City, to which the royal sisters would be traveling. Lastly, Hunter had noted a small logging village along the river and headed there with Sunset, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash.
Hunter carried Sunset through the air, Rainbow Dash at his side with Pinkie Pie on her back. The village they were on route to was small, but acted as a primary source of lumber for the region as the river gave access to many populated areas. The large mill was the first thing to come into view, its water wheel churning dedicatedly as workers went about their day.
“Things look normal.” Sunset noted as they landed.
“Seems that way.” Hunter agreed as he set her down.
“Is that it then?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“It won’t hurt to ask if they’ve seen anything strange lately.” Hunter shrugged as he headed into the rustic village.
“Ooh, maybe they have a gift shop.” Pinkie Pie wandered off. “I’ll get us some souvenirs.”
“Pinkie.” Rainbow Dash shook her head and went after her.
Sunset followed Hunter over towards the mill where several stallions were hauling logs up into the saw house. “Excuse me.” She waved.
“Oh, hello.” One of the workers smiled and approached. “Don’t see too many visitors here.”
“Well, we’re sorry to bother you; but we wanted to ask if anypony here has seen or heard about anything unusual going on in the area.” Sunset continued. “Or if any strange creatures have passed through.”
“No strangers.” The worker assured. “But… something kind of odd came floating down the river the other day.”
“What?” Hunter asked.
“None of us are sure.” He shook his head. “I can show it to you if you want?”
“Might as well.” Hunter nodded, gesturing for him to lead the way.
“We’ve got it in the saw house.” He began leading them up to the mill. “Uh… careful miss.” He backed up and slowed Sunset. “Lots of equipment around here, best to be careful.”
“Don’t worry about her.” Hunter looked back with a smile. “She’s…” He screamed as a set of metal jaws rose from the ground and clamped around his leg; the armor protected his shin but the jagged teeth sank into his hamstring.
“Hunter!” Sunset started to run towards him. .
“Wait!” The worker grabbed her and held her back as the other workers began to scramble.
“Good work.” A heavy baritone complimented as Ridgeback lumbered from the mill, a gagged mare held tight in his fist. He tossed the mare aside and the worker ran to her, ungagging her and looking back at Sunset with tear filed eyes.
“I’m… I’m sorry.” He whimpered as he clutched his weeping wife, dragging her to safety.
“Hold on, Hunter!” Sunset blasted the bear trap with her magic and shattered it, the damage had been done though as Hunter’s leg began to bleed.
Before Hunter could move, Ridgeback grabbed him in one of his massive hands and brought him up to his face. “So. You’re the little shit that’s been following us around.” He balked. “Bet you thought you were pretty clever making a judgement call about Skyfall’s attacks. Good thing I figured you’d be smart enough to head this way, just not smart enough to think I’d see it coming.” With a heavy laugh he threw Hunter into the side of the mill, his body splintering the wood as he crashed through. As he went to pursue, he felt a sharp sting on his back from a red blast of magic.
“Stay away from him!” Sunset commanded as she fired again.
“Bitch, do you know…” Ridgeback’s threat was interrupted as he took a shot to the face. With a maddened growl he lifted a log with one hand and brought it down on top of Sunset. A rainbow blur intercepted the log and smashed the dried wood.
“Rainbow Dash.” Sunset called up as she u-turned in the sky. “Get the Princesses!”
“Right!” Rainbow Dash curved in the air and aimed herself for Dodge City.
“Skyfall!” Ridgeback called out.
From behind the houses the reptilian bird rose and blocked Rainbow Dash. “Forget it, girl.” He whipped his right wing forward and forced her down with his quills.
“Alright, let’s kill them already.” Ridgeback approached. “I’ve got better things to do.”
“Bastard!” Hunter flew from the mill and latched onto Ridgeback’s arm, he drug his talons down its length and opened up several wounds. Ridgeback roared and swatted at him; palm meeting dirt as Hunter evaded the blow.
“I’ll deal with him.” Ridgeback looked up at Skyfall. “Kill the ponies.”
“With pleasure.” Skyfall focused in on Sunset and Rainbow Dash, diving at them with talons barred. Sunset raised as shield to cover them and Skyfall bounced off of it, circling in the air over the homes for a return strike. As he descended towards the ground, Pinkie Pie appeared on a rooftop and jumped onto his neck.
“Surprise!” She produced a pair of cakes she had taken from the local bakery and slapped them over his eyes.
“God damn it!” Skyfall cursed as he shook in the air, trying to remove her as he wiped at his stinging eyes.
“Rainbow Dash, go now!” Sunset lowered her shield.
“Be back in a flash!” Rainbow Dash soared into the sky and went for help.
In spite of his leg, Hunter’s improved skill allowed him to keep his distance from the hammering fists of Ridgeback. They worked their way into the saw house, Ridgeback tossing whatever he could at Hunter as he danced in the air.
“Stay still, chicken shit!” Ridgeback ripped the massive saw blade from the cutting line and whipped it at Hunter; it tore through the opposite wall and spiraled out into the river, narrowly missing Hunter’s wings.
“All that strength doesn’t mean a thing if you can’t hit me.” Hunter took up a logging chain and maneuvered in, looping it around Ridgeback’s leg and flying out the new hole in the wall. He tried to get him to the water but Ridgeback reached down and easily snapped the chain.
“Oh I’ll hit you.” Ridgeback threw the severed links over his shoulder. “And one hit is all I’ll need.” He reeled back and threw a wide haymaker.
In the clouds above them, Skyfall flew high into the air as Pinkie Pie held onto the plumage of his neck. Making a sharp stop, Pinkie flew even higher with a scream and Skyfall sent a pair of quills into her side. She went limp in the air and began plummeting to the ground.
“Pinkie Pie!” Sunset cried out as she ran to catch her.
“I’ve got her!” Rainbow Dash blew by Sunset and ascended, catching Pinkie in her hooves and quickly falling back.
“Rainbow Dash?” Sunset skidded to a stop and looked back, smiling in relief at the sight of the Princesses descending from above.
“Assist Sunset, Luna.” Celestia pointed down to her former pupil. “I will aid Hunter.”
“Yes, sister.” Luna peeled away from her and engaged Skyfall. Rainbow Dash flew up to her side and held altitude with her.
“Pinkie is hurt.” She informed.
“Then let us try and end this quickly.” Luna fired her magic into Skyfall’s side as Rainbow Dash moved to flank him.
“You again?” Skyfall hissed, launching more quills which were quickly negated by her barrier.
“You will be free of us when you are locked in Tartarus, villain!” Luna retorted, teleporting above him and attacking his head.
“I’ll be free of you when you’re dead!” He somersaulted and flared his wings, sending quills in every direction and forcing them both to retreat.
Celestia flew over the mill to see Hunter and Ridgeback dueling near the river bank. “Hunter!” She dove downward and fired into the brute’s backside.
“Great, another one.” Ridgeback glanced up to see her approach.
“Eyes on me!” Hunter abused the distraction and closed in. He clawed at his neck, opening up another wound. It was a fair trade though as Ridgeback backhanded Hunter in the chest and sent him into a tree.
Ridgeback was staggered by another powerful blast of magic and turned his attention to Celestia. Hefting two, heavy rocks in his hands he crumbled them in his grip; Ridgeback pitched the debris upwards like a shotgun blast and peppered Celestia’s body. As the Princess reeled from the pain, Ridgeback looked over his many gashes and decided enough was enough. He ran on his feet and knuckles back around the mill.
“Skyfall!” Ridgeback shouted. “Let’s go!”
“Right!” Skyfall slashed at Luna and Rainbow Dash, sending them back before flipping in the air and descending towards Ridgeback. The ape held his arms outward and Skyfall latched onto them, lifting him into the air and heading back towards the hills.
Hunter and Celestia came over the ruins of the mill and saw their escape. “Rainbow Dash!” Hunter called to the fastest of the flyers. “Grab one of these chains and follow me!”
“Gotcha!” Rainbow Dash left Luna’s side and dove down to the stacks of logs, scooping up a chain with Hunter and flying after the pair.
With Ridgeback in tow, Skyfall was much slower and they were on him shortly as they sailed over the landscape. Hunter pointed to Skyfall’s wings and Rainbow Dash instantly caught on. They dive-bombed the pair and each snared one his lower most wings in one of the chains.
“What!?” Skyfall staggered in the air, having lost half his wing power; he looked over his shoulder to see them pulling backwards with all their strength.
“Drop me!” Ridgeback ordered.
Skyfall released Ridgeback who tucked and rolled as he made contact with the ground. With his talons free, he turned back to face them. “Let me go, you obstinate little bugs!” Unable to spare another wing for his ranged attack, he was forced to use his talons and flew at them brazenly.
Hunter and Rainbow Dash flew down and back up behind him, pulling the chains tighter and torqueing his wings into a painful position. As Skyfall howled, a tree flew up from the ground and smacked Rainbow Dash out of the air; with a shocked cry she started spiraling towards the ground.
“Dash!” Hunter watched helplessly as she landed on the ground with a dull thud. Looking down, he saw Ridgeback hoist another tree and throw it at him. Instead of avoiding it, he wrapped the chain around his waist and braced himself. As the tree neared, he dug his gauntlets into the wood and let his armor absorb the impact. Blood flew from his mouth as he rode the momentum of the log; he sailed past Skyfall with such speed that the chain pulled at the base of his lower left wing, ripping it clean off. Skyfall screamed in agony and awkwardly wobbled in the sky.
“You son of a bitch!” He thrashed as blood spurted from the stump.
“Skyfall!” Ridgeback called is attention. “Keep moving before the others come!”
“Fuck!” Knowing he was right, Skyfall bitterly returned to Ridgeback and lifted him from the ground again, flying them both as best his could away from the area.
Hunter crashed into the water, lashed to the tree by the chain. As soon as he was below the surface, his body was consumed by magic and he took on his sea pony form. Not being salt water however, it was difficult to breath; his lithe body slid from the chain and he returned to the surface. With a graceful leap he shot out of the water and returned to his Hippogriff form, landing on the bank and grabbing his abdomen at the sharp pain of broken ribs. Recalling Rainbow Dash’s plight, he limped along until Celestia landed before him.
“Hunter.” She rushed over and helped him stand.
“Where’s Dash?” He asked through a pained pant.
“Luna has her, and Sunset is with Pinkie Pie.” She informed. “You are all injured, we must get you back to Canterlot immediately.”
“No arguments here.” As the adrenaline died down, the loss of blood from his leg began to take effect and he slumped over in her forelegs. “Mind giving me a lift?” He laughed weakly.
“We need to bandage your leg first.” Celestia set him down and returned to the mill; she tore some spare work clothes into strips and used them to stop the bleeding before lifting him with her magic and returning to the others.
Under the tow of the royal sisters, the three of them were rushed back to Canterlot where the castle’s medical staff saw to them. Hunter finally succumbed to his injury and fell in and out of consciousness as he was worked on; he eventually came to on a bed, his armor had been removed and his leg and midsection were bound tight with bandages. He pushed himself up with a groan and stared at the wall as his senses returned.
“Jesus.” He muttered. “All these injuries are starting to make me look bad.” Hunter rolled out of the bed and fell to his paws, looking over to see Pinkie Pie in the bed next to him. He went to her bedside and observed the padded bandage around her waist. “Damn it.” He whispered to himself.
“Hunter?” She turned over and smiled up at him.
“Hey, Laffy Taffy.” He smiled back. “You okay?”
“Yeah.” Pinkie Pie nodded. “He got me with two of those pointy things.” She rubbed her belly.
“Hey, where I come from, two in the Pink isn’t so bad.” He rested his talon on her hoof.
She laughed, despite having no idea what he was talking about. “What about you?”
“Lacerated leg, broken ribs… probably a concussion.” He shrugged. “The usual.”
“Where’s Dashie?” She asked.
“Going to find out right now.” He rubbed her leg. “Keep resting.”
“Okie dokie.” She yawned and curled up again, her eyes instantly closing.
Hunter left the room and found himself in a semi familiar hallway. He headed back for the throne room and came upon the rest of the group, Rainbow Dash included. He saw Celestia’s body covered in bruises from the rocks that Ridgeback and thrown and Rainbow Dash was in a wheelchair with a cast on her right, hind leg.
“Hunter.” Sunset and Twilight hurried over to him.
“I know, I shouldn’t be up.” Hunter nodded. “But when do I ever listen.” He hobbled back over with them. “Princess, you look like hell.” He smiled at Celestia.
“As do you.” She smiled back.
“At least we match.” He went to check on Rainbow Dash. “Broken leg?”
“Is it that obvious?” She laughed, patting the cast. “At least we got in a few licks of our own.” She held her hoof up.
“Got that right.” He fist bumped her.
“We’re sorry we couldn’t help.” Applejack observed his battered condition.
“Ridgeback knew I was coming.” Hunter shook his head. “He completely set us up with those village attacks, even scared the ponies into helping him.” He sighed. “Walked right into a trap, literally.”
“It must have been a vicious confrontation.” Rarity noted.
“Yeah.” Hunter confirmed with a heavy breath. “But I was able to fight him on relatively equal terms. That armor saved my life though, no way would I have survived those hits without it.”
“I am seeing to its repair as we speak.” Celestia relayed.
“Thanks.” He sat beside Sunset who immediately put her leg around him. “Did anyone learn anything from the other areas?”
“No.” Fluttershy shook her head. “Pistachio and his family haven’t had any encounters with them.
“What about Dodge City?” He turned to Celestia and Luna.
“Sister and I spoke with many of the ponies there.” Luna began. “The only oddity of note was a resurgence of Diamond Dog activity in the area.”
“Ugh.” Rarity’s face filled with revulsion. “Those disgusting brutes.”
“What’s a Diamond Dog?” Hunter inquired.
“They’re thieves and bullies who live for rare gems.” Twilight explained.
“They abducted me once and tried to force me to dig for them.” Rarity carried on.
“What were they doing in Dodge City?” Applejack asked.
“Apparently, they have been trading in large quantities of gems.” Celestia detailed.
“That’s hard to believe.” Rainbow Dash scoffed. “They’re usually too lazy to do things for themselves.”
“You think this is related to what we’re dealing with?” Sunset asked.
“I don’t like to believe in coincidence.” Hunter stated. “It’s worth checking out.”
“We can investigate while you, Pinkie, Rainbow Dash and Princess Celestia heal up.” Twilight volunteered.
“Yeah.” Applejack nodded. “If they’re up to something, we’ll find out.”
“Just be careful.” Hunter warned. “If anything smells funny, just bug out.”
“We will.” Fluttershy promised. “You just focus on getting better.”
Twilight, Applejack, Rarity and Fluttershy proceeded to move out once more. Sunset looped Hunter’s arm over her and helped him walk. “Come on, let’s get you into bed.”
“Not tonight, Sunny. I have a headache.” He smirked.
“You will if you don’t shut it.” She warned with a smile as she moved him along.
“Wait up.” Rainbow Dash rolled herself along after them.
“You should rest as well, sister.” Luna looked over her body. “I shall handle the remainder of the day.”
“Thank you, Luna.” Celestia hugged her and headed for her room. “I could perhaps use an ice pack… or nine.” She laughed.
“I will see to it, sister.” Luna promised.
Skyfall sat still as Ridgeback bandaged what was left of his wing; growling pain as he cinched the cloth up. “Careful.” He snapped.
“Quit bitching.” Ridgeback barbed. “You’re not the only one injured.”
“Perhaps, but this is your fault.”
“If I didn’t stop them you’d have lost two wings.” Ridgeback stood, checking his own bandages. “He may be small, but he’s a tough son of a bitch.”
“No matter our strength, we are losing the numbers game.” Skyfall rose and folded his wings, feeling the empty spot where his lesser wing once rested.
“Yeah, that’s why I paid for some help.” Ridgeback motioned for him to follow.
“What help?” Skyfall asked.
“They call themselves Diamond Dogs.” He began. “I ran into them while you were hitting those settlements. They’re stupid, but they understand that money talks.” He laughed. “They’ve been a help in keeping the ponies under control… at least I don’t have to sleep with one eye open now.”
“Can they fight?”
“Enough to help even the odds.” Ridgeback shrugged. “I had hoped we could kill that guy, but that didn’t take and they’re going to stumble onto us sooner or later. He’ll be out for a while with those injuries. I’m thinking about moving this little operation somewhere safer.”
“Where?”
“The Dogs told me about a place called the Badlands.” Ridgeback explained. “Said it’s ripe with gems but the ponies don’t go there because of the hostile environment. Best of all, it’s a canyon which means it can be easily defended.”
“I’ll scout it out.” Skyfall offered.
“Good.” Ridgeback snorted. “The Dogs are into the idea of setting up shop so they’re reaching out to other packs. Once they reinforce their numbers, we’ll plan the move.”
“Fine, I’ll be back soon.” Skyfall took off, struggling to adjust to his missing limb. Ridgeback sighed and rubbed the bandage on his neck. Deciding to check on things one final time before resting, he headed back to the mine where the ponies of the village continued to toil away under the watchful eyes of their new guard dogs.
When Sunset woke up the next morning she immediately went to check on Hunter. Arriving at the makeshift recovery room, she found Pinkie Pie spoon feeding him pudding in bed.
“You both seem to be doing better.” Sunset noted as she observed the scene.
“Hey, Sunny.” He waved.
“Morning, Sunset.” Pinkie greeted brightly. “I’m feeling a lot better, now it only hurts when I somersault.”
“Easy enough to avoid.” Sunset laughed.
“Guess I should let you take over, huh?” Pinkie eyed her with a knowing smile as she passed the dessert into her magical hold.
“What’s that look for?” Sunset asked suspiciously.
“What indeed.” Pinkie grinned as she slipped out of the room.
“What did you tell her?” Sunset immediately looked back to Hunter.
“Nothing, I swear.” He raised his talons. “I have years’ worth of knowledge in criminal profiling as well as animal behavior and that girl’s mind still eludes me.”
“Don’t feel bad, mine isn’t any better.” She chuckled. “Well, if I knew you already had a nurse I’d have stayed in bed.”
“I tried to tell her not to worry.” Hunter assured. “But she insisted. She’s too sweet for her own good.” He laughed. “If a vampire bit her he’d die of diabetes.”
Sunset giggled and prepared another spoonful. “Here.” She levitated the serving into his mouth. “You know, Rarity gave me the same back in our world.” Sunset began. “She said we act differently around each other now and it shows.”
“Well, you aren’t trying to kill me anymore and I’m much less of a sarcastic dickhead.” Hunter scooted over, inviting her to lay beside him.
“I wasn’t trying to kill you.” She slid into bed with him. “And you weren’t a sarcastic dickhead, you were just… no, I take that back; you were a huge dickhead.”
Hunter laid his arm around her as they laughed. “Maybe the more we try to play it off the more it shows.” He surmised.
“Maybe.” Sunset laid her head to his shoulder.
“I know we said we’d talk about this later, but… do you want to talk about it now?” He asked, laying his head against hers. “With the way these fights are going, we might not have a later.”
“That’s not funny.” She toned.
“It wasn’t supposed to be.” He pulled back and looked down into her eyes.
Sunset sighed, realizing he was right. “I don’t know what to say about it.” She finally answered.
“Just be honest and tell me what you feel right now.” Hunter said plainly. “I’ve taken bullets, I can take this.” He smiled.
“That’s just it.” Sunset shook her head. “You almost die on a regular basis. I barely slept last night thinking about that battle and we’re together right now.” She looked up at him with great concern. “What happens when you’re away? I care about you but I don’t think I can take the pressure and fear of constantly wondering if someone I’ve committed myself to is going to come back or not. The thought that our last conversation, or dinner or kiss… really was the last.” She wiped her eyes with her hoof. “I want to say yes, Hunter. As much as I think about all that, I think about the great parts just as much; how comfortable we are around each other, how much you make me laugh, how warm you make me feel when I’m this close to you.” She let out a long, hard breath. “The scale these things are sitting on in my head is constantly rocking back and forth and I haven’t found a balance yet. I wish I could say more than that… I wish I could just say yes or no, but I can’t.”
Hunter pulled her close. “I understand, Sunny. I do.” He nuzzled the top of her head. “And you’re right, that’s a lot to put on someone… too much. The last thing I’d ever want to do is hurt you or know that your day to day was suffering because of me.”
“What do you feel, Hunter.” She sat up and looked into his eyes. “Honestly; no innuendo, jokes or one-liners.”
Hunter gazed back at her. “I have no doubt in my mind that a serious relationship between us would be messy, complicated and stressful beyond reason.” He answered honestly. “But I still want to try.” He smiled. “I’ve never had an actual relationship in my life and I don’t know the first thing about how to be in one; and yeah, there will be times when I have to disappear for weeks on end… and I can’t promise you I’ll always come back. But having someone to come back to will make me fight that much harder to make sure I do." His eyes lowered a bit. "I have aliases, fake bank accounts, fake parents, falsified records and I work for an agency that is always looking over my shoulder.” He sighed. “I’m… a lot. But I'm also head over heels for you, Sunny.” His talon cupped her cheek. “I thought about you every day since I had to say goodbye and I don’t want to say goodbye again.” He began to tear up. “I know it’s a lot to ask, I know it isn’t fair to you… but if you’ll give me the chance I’m willing to give it my all to be everything I can for you.”
Sunset looked up at the ceiling with sniffle, her own tears falling from her eyes. “Okay.” She nodded with a quiet laugh. “I will.” Before he could utter another word she kissed him, a kiss she had been wanting to give him since that night at Twilight’s. His talons went around her and he kissed her back with a tidal wave of pent up emotion. Their interlude was cut short as she eased on top of him, making him recoil as her body pressed onto his still broken ribs.
“Ow ow…” He hissed.
Sunset immediately backed off with a teary laugh. “Sorry.”
“That’s okay.” He laughed, holding his abdomen. “Totally worth it.”
“Hunter.” Sunset looked at him with serious eyes and a warm smile. “If you break my heart, I’m going to kill you myself.”
“Don’t fret, my little side of bacon.” He hugged onto her with his usual smile. “The only way I’ll ever break your heart is if I, in fact, die; in which case you won’t have to kill me.”
“That’s still not funny.” Sunset eyed him. “But I get it. Live each day like it’s your last, but just don’t act like it might be, right?” She recalled his philosophy on the subject.
“Right.” He rolled onto his side and kissed her again. Sunset gently laid her foreleg over him and gave herself up to the moment.
The door suddenly opened and Twilight stuck her head in. “Hey Hunter, we’re…” She stopped as she saw them, her cheeks reddening as she averted her eyes with a cough.
“Twilight.” Sunset looked over with mild embarrassment.
“Sorry, didn’t mean to… interrupt.” Twilight giggled. “Just wanted to say that we’re back and we’ve got some news… so… just head out when you’re ready.” She quickly receded from the doorframe.
“Guess we should come back to this later?” Hunter asked, pecking her on the cheek.
“Guess so.” Sunset rested her nose against his beak with a happy sigh.
Sunset and Hunter joined Twilight’s returning team in the throne room along with the Princesses. Pinkie Pie wheeled Rainbow Dash along in her chair to take part in the meeting as well. Celestia slowly came down from her seat, her body still dotted in dark purple welts.
“We seem to be all here.” She began, sitting beside her sister. “What news have you brought us, Twilight?”
“Fluttershy and I headed to Dodge City while Applejack and Rarity went even further south into Appleloosa. We spent the day talking to all the traders and dealers and it is true that the Diamond Dogs have been showing up quite a bit.”
“It also seems to be true that they’re on the up and up.” Fluttershy took over. “The gems they’re dealing in are authentic. We also heard that they are spreading out even farther, small caravans of them have been seen heading towards port towns.”
“And you said that this is unlike them?” Hunter asked.
“Definitely.” Twilight nodded. “This type of trade is way to organized and… well, legal for them.”
“What are they buying?” Sunset continued.
“Everything.” Fluttershy answered. “Food, supplies, construction equipment… it’s like they’re starting their own settlement.”
"What did you find in Appleloosa?” Hunter gave his attention to Applejack and Rarity.
“Same, more or less.” Applejack shrugged. “My family doesn’t deal with them though, no matter how honest it may seem.”
“I did find out something interesting.” Rarity added. “Some of the ore they have been bringing into town is raw malachite and azurite. Those minerals occur alongside veins of copper which is rarer than one might think in this region.”
“So if we track them down, we need to find a copper mine.” Hunter scratched his beak. “Any miners in town?”
“Let’s ask Maud.” Pinkie chimed in eagerly.
“Your sister?” Sunset asked, familiar with her human counterpart.
“Yeah, she knows almost every cave, cavern and crevice in Equestria.” Pinkie proclaimed. “If anypony knows where to find a copper mine, it’s her.”
“Are you up for getting her, Pinkie?” Twilight asked.
“No problem.” Pinkie assured.
“I’d better come with you.” Fluttershy went to her side. “Just to be safe.”
“And to keep you focused.” Applejack smirked.
“Good idea.” Pinkie nodded, blissfully aware of her own attention span.
Rarity took over Rainbow Dash’s chair and wheeled her out into the gardens as the group broke for the time being. Luna helped her sister back up to her seat while the others went their separate ways.
“Sunset.” Twilight joined her by the wayside.
“Hunter, right?” She smiled.
“Oh, well… only if you want to talk about it.” Twilight held her hoof up understandingly.
“No, it’s fine.” Sunset shook her head. “We’ve decided that we’re going to try and make things work.”
“That’s great.” Twilight beamed.
“Well, he found out that I’m a unicorn from an alternate world and regularly engaged in battles against the forces of Equestrian magic and he didn’t run away, so…” She laughed.
“Sounds like a good match for a monster hunting, government agent.” Twilight chuckled.
“Yeah, we just might be the only ones who can handle the truths about the others’ lives and not freak out.” Sunset conceded. “I still have my concerns.” She admitted.
“That’s only natural.” Twilight laid her wing over her. “Even by Equestrian standards, none of us have normal lives. I think finding someone who can accept that is a huge part of the battle and you two seem to have already jumped that hurdle.” She hugged her. “I hope it does work out for both of you.”
“Thanks, Twilight.” Sunset hugged her back. “I do too.”
Hunter approached them with a cautious smile. “Talking about me already?”
“Maybe.” Sunset smiled and went under his arm.
“How are you feeling?” Twilight asked.
“Doctor said I should be 100% in another week or so.” He patted his abdomen. “Unless either of you can magic my bones back together?”
“Sorry, magic doesn’t work that way.” Twilight said with a laugh.
“Rainbow Dash is the one who’s going to be out of action for a while.” He noted. “Her leg took a full break.”
“Don’t worry about her.” Twilight said reassuringly. “She does everything fast, even heal.” Her eyes brightened as she got an idea. “Hey, since we’re all here, how about we go out for a nice dinner tonight once Pinkie, Fluttershy and Maud get back.”
“I’d say we’ve earned it.” Sunset agreed.
“Ooh, our first official date.” Hunter squealed with all the mannerism of a school girl.
Sunset sighed heavily. “You’re going to embarrass me, aren’t you?”
“Absolutely.” He promised with a sure nod. She groaned under his and Twilight’s laughter as they continued out into the main hall.
Once Pinkie Pie had returned with her stoic sibling and heard about Twilight’s idea, she immediately suggested The Tasty Treat. The nine of them headed downtown to the secluded pocket of Canterlot where Saffron’s restaurant sat. The always warm and welcoming mare was happy to see her friends again and gave them a large corner booth to accommodate their number. Hunter slid in next to Sunset and offered the spot next to him to Applejack who far from politely declined. After ordering, Twilight took to explaining their situation to Maud.
“Okay, Maud.” Twilight began. “Basically, we’re trying to track down where the Diamond Dogs are mining and we have reason to believe that they’re using a copper mine. Do you think you can help us find what we’re looking for?”
“Yes.” Maud answered simply.
After a moment of silence, Rainbow Dash leaned in from her chair at the outer edge of the table. “Can you tell us where the copper mines are?”
“Yes.” Maud answered again.
After another pause, Hunter cleared his throat with a smile. “Let me try.” He folded his talons on the table. “How many copper mines are located in the region within a 500km radius of Canterlot?”
“Five.” She set her eyes on Hunter.
“Out of the five, how many are located in the southeastern and/or southwestern areas?”
“Two.” She responded.
“Are either of them used by commercial mining operations?” He continued.
“Only one.” She answered.
“Okay, where is the one that isn't?”
“Approximately 132 miles southeast of Canterlot.”
“There’s our target.” Hunter sat back. “Thanks, Poker Face.”
“It’s Maud.” She clarified. “And you’re welcome.”
“We could really use her in our intelligence department.” Hunter noted. “Straightforward, factual and no nonsense. She’s like an angel sent from CIA heaven.”
“I guess that takes care of the shop talk.” Sunset levitated her water for a sip.
“Good, then that means we can relax for a bit.” Rarity pointed out with a pleasant smile. “So dear, how have things been with… Mudbriar, was it?”
“As smooth as river rock.” Maud’s lips belied the tiniest of smiles. “I invited him tonight, but he said that technically this was a business trip for me and couldn’t be considered a proper date.”
“Don’t listen to her, Sunny.” Hunter put his arm around her. “This is totally a proper date.”
“I know.” Sunset chuckled as she leaned into him.
While they ate, they avoided talking about what had been happening and instead focused on enjoying the evening. It was a welcome reprieve for them all and a needed boost to morale after the injuries suffered in the last battle. Maud headed back for Ponyville before the hour grew too late and the others returned to the castle; ready for their excursion to the mine in the morning. Sunset and Hunter returned to their room where he took the time to change the wrappings around his midsection before bed.
“Tonight was nice.” Sunset said as she sat on her bed. “It’s weird. I know that were officially a couple now but… it didn’t feel any different. It felt just like it always has with you.”
“Sounds like a good thing.” He mused as he bandaged himself.
“It is." Sunset nodded. "I just haven’t been in a relationship since I broke things off with Flash.” She thought back to how she used and mistreated him.
“You used to date ol’ hair gel?” Hunter sat beside her. “Doesn’t really seem your type.”
“I was pretty awful to him.” She explained. “Only wanted him because he was the most popular boy in school; it was a power play more than anything else. We’ve started over as friends since then; even so, I’m always surprised how forgiving he has been to me.” She sighed. “With you though, it’s different.” A wry smile crossed her. “Actually, sometimes I can’t believe I’m attracted to you."
“Your bedroom talk needs some work.” He kissed the side of her head with a short laugh.
“What about you?” She asked. “I know you said you’ve never had anything serious; but haven’t you had any girlfriends before?”
“Well.” He let out a stout breath. “Before I took up the hobby of being a professional asshole, I sort of dated this one girl. It was my… second mission I think?” He asked himself. “Anyway, we hit it off and had some fun; although her mother hated me… mean, ugly bitch.”
“Hunter.” Sunset shook her head with a snort.
“What?” He eyed her. “She was. That woman needed prescription makeup.” He smiled as she started to laugh. “I bet if she threw a boomerang it’d be to fucking scared to come back.”
Sunset broke down further, wiping tears from her eyes as she laughed. “God, that is so mean.” She looked back at him with a deep fondness. “Hard to believe a mouth like yours can give such sweet kisses.” Sunset laid her lips to his beak.
“All part of the charm.” He grinned.
“If you say so.” She gingerly pushed him back onto the bed and cuddled up with him, using her magic to lift the sheet over them. “Going to assume you don’t mind sharing the bed tonight?”
“No complaints here.” Hunter put his arms around her and nestled into the pillows. He felt a sudden wave of peace wash over him as he held her, as if in this moment in time he was exactly where he was supposed to be; it was a sense of normality that was rare in his life and he cherished the feeling. “Night, Sunny.” He kissed the spot just above her horn.
“Mm, goodnight.” She mumbled back, already half asleep.
When Hunter awoke he found that his arms were still tightly around Sunset, almost as if he was afraid she would disappear at some point during the night. She hadn’t though, she laid against his chest in peaceful slumber.
“I could really get used to this.” Hunter muttered to himself with a smile.
Sunset stirred as he pulled his arms away. She took a deep breath through her nose and rolled her eyes upwards to see him. “Morning already?” She asked sleepily.
“I know, right.” He chuckled. “Sleep better this time around?”
“Much better.” She rubbed his chest. “I didn’t snore, did I?”
“Just a little.” He noted. “It was a cute though, nothing warranting a CPAP.” She lifted herself off of him and sat on the side of the bed, raising her forelegs up to stretch. “So, ready to do a little mining?”
“You know, most guys would buy a lady a diamond.” She smirked over her shoulder. “Not make them dig one up for themselves.”
“Too bad I’m not most guys.” Hunter smiled as he stood from the bed.
“That’s the truest thing you’ve said yet.” She rounded the bed and kissed him, giving him a concerned look as they parted. “You’re still not fully recovered. If things get crazy you need to be careful.”
“I know, Sunny.” He nodded. “I’ll stay passive.”
“Thank you.” She kissed the tip of his beak. “Let’s go find the others.”
They came across Twilight and Fluttershy as they walked the halls and were told that the rest of their friends were gathering in the foyer. Luna was waiting for them when they arrived, Hunter’s armor in a neat pile at her hooves.
“Nice, my suit is back from the dry cleaners.” He noted with a grin. “Didn’t go too heavy on the starch, did you?”
“Sister saw to it that the royal blacksmith fully restored these ancient pieces.” Luna set her hoof to the helm. “He has ensured that your armor has been reinforced and its accumulated imperfections corrected.”
“And they say craftsmanship is dead.” Hunter knelt down and began to suit up.
“I have asked sister to remain here.” Luna continued. “She still needs to recover.”
“I know the feeling.” Rainbow Dash’s voice came in as Pinkie wheeled her into the room. “This sucks, having to literally sit this one out.”
“If I get the chance, I’ll buck em’ once for you.” Applejack promised.
“Pinkie, will you stay with Rainbow Dash?” Twilight asked.
“Sure.” Pinkie nodded. “Be careful out there.”
“We will, darling.” Rarity promised as Twilight wrapped her magic around her and raised her into the air. Luna did the same for Applejack and Sunset once more returned to Hunter’s waiting arms. They moved out, heading southeast as Maud had instructed. The landscape grew ever more rural as they left the typically settled areas and flew over the smoothly rolling hills. Keeping their eyes peeled, Applejack was quick to spy a collection of roofs nestled amongst the trees.
“Down there, y’all.” She pointed.
“Go in slow.” Hunter reminded. “We don’t know who all is home right now.”
They touched down on the fringe of the settlement, proceeding on hoof. Luna stopped short as she beheld the drying remains of several of their missing guards, hanging morbidly from iron spikes.
“No…” She stepped back in horror.
“Damn it.” Hunter cursed, balling his talon. He glanced back, seeing the impact the sight was having on his friends. “We need to sweep this town to make sure it’s clear.” He instructed, calling their attention away from the lifeless stallions. “I’m guessing the mine is part of those hills.” He pointed into the distance. “We also need to run a check there. Luna, take Twilight and Fluttershy for aerial reconnaissance of the site.”
“Yes.” Luna composed herself. “Come, girls.” She took back to the air with the remaining flyers and headed for the mine.
“We’ll move through the area one house at a time.” Hunter turned his attention to the remaining mares. “I’ll take point and Sunset will watch the door while we’re inside.”
“Okay.” Applejack nodded.
Sunset matched pace with him as they headed for the first dwelling. “I can always tell it’s serious when you use our actual names.” She whispered.
“I know they’re upset.” He began. “But we need to focus until we’re sure this area is safe. When you’re in the field, no matter what you see, keeping your mind focused on the job is one of the most important things.
They began moving through the homes, finding them devoid of life. Hunter could tell by the food that was left about and the abundance of personal belongings, that whomever was here had either fled or was moved by force. One dwelling after another their search came up empty until the seventh home where Rarity detected the faintest of whimpers coming from a bedroom.
“Hello?” She softly called. A deeply frightened squeal came from the closet and Rarity used her magic to peel back the door; inside was a young filly who sat shocked at the sight of her. “Oh… are you okay, dear?” Rarity asked. “It’s alright, my friends and I are here to help. We won’t hurt you.” Her gentle eyes and kind smile coaxed the filly to burst from her hiding spot and into her hooves; she wept uncontrollably which caused the others to come running. Rarity held her hoof out to keep them back, not wanting to swarm the traumatized girl.
Hunter sighed and took Applejack’s shoulder. “Stay here with Rarity. There aren’t many more houses to check so Sunset and I can handle the rest.”
“Right.” Applejack went to Rarity’s side and sat with them.
“Once she’s calm, move her outside.” Hunter added as he and Sunset left them. The pair finished their inspection, finding no other remaining residents and returned to the settlement's center.
“What now?” Sunset asked.
“I’m going to move these bodies.” Hunter looked up at the fallen guards. “That girl doesn’t need to see this… neither do the others, honestly.”
“I’ll help you.”
“Are you sure?” Hunter looked back at her.
“Yes.” Sunset nodded. “To be honest, I half expected we’d find this.”
“Same here.” Hunter admitted. “I didn’t want Celestia to think the worst though.”
“She’s not going to take this well.” Sunset used her magic to lower one of the guards.
“Got to say, you’re taking this better than I would have expected.” Hunter noted as he gently freed another from his grisly fate.
“It’s terrible beyond reason.” Sunset acknowledged. “But this type of thing happens in the human world all the time. I’m more… accepting of this level of reality I guess.”
“That’s what I’m afraid of.” Hunter shook his head longingly. “This type of violence doesn’t just stop here. Yeah, these stallions lost their lives; but the ponies that witnessed this first hand… like that little girl, it’s going to stay with them for the rest of their lives. Whether they know it or not, they’re different now and that tiny difference will be imparted into future generations which will change the world as a whole.” He looked back over the homes. “I was hoping to keep this from happening.”
“There was no way you could have, Hunter.” Sunset said in consolation. “This was going to happen as soon as they set foot in this world.”
Hunter quietly accepted her words. “I’m going to get some blankets for them. Be right back.” He flew into one of the houses to begin retrieving sheets. He soon returned with an arm full and they covered up the guards. Not long after, Rarity and Applejack emerged with the lone filly. “How is she?” He asked.
“Calmer.” Rarity rubbed the girl’s head. “Her name is Willow.”
“Willow.” Hunter gave her a smile, kneeling before her. “That’s a beautiful name, way better than mine.”
“Th...thank you.” Willow ran her foreleg across her running nose.
“I know you’ve been through a lot.” Hunter held his eyes on hers. “We’re going to help, I promise. But I need you to tell me what you can about what happened, can you do that for us?”
Willow nodded lightly. “It was the pig monster.”
“Ridgeback.” Hunter stated. “What did he do?”
“He came and took daddy away.” She answered. “Mommy and I stayed in the house with my friends and their mommies.” Her face saddened. “He wouldn’t let us leave the house.”
“Did he hurt you?” Hunter asked. “Or the others?”
“No.” She shook her head. “He hurt the stallions in the shiny clothes when they tried to help us.”
“Everyone is gone.” Hunter continued. “Where did they go?”
“I don’t know.” Willow began to grow upset again. “The bad doggies took mommy and my friends. Mommy had me hide and told me not to come out… I heard screaming… and…”
“It’s okay, sweetie.” Hunter moved closer and hugged her as she started to cry. “I’m going to get your mommy and daddy back, I promise.”
“We need to get her somewhere safe.” Applejack noted. “Poor thing probably hasn’t eaten in a while and she needs a good looking at by a doctor.”
“Right.” Hunter held Willow’s shoulders and looked her in the eyes. “You’re safe now, Willow. We won’t let anything else happen to you.”
“Okay.” She nodded.
Hunter stood and looked towards the hills. “The area is clear, so you’ll be okay here.” He began. “I’m going to check on the others and see what they found.”
“Alright.” Sunset nodded. “We’ll stay here till you get back.”
Hunter took off in search of the second team. He swiftly scouted the area and saw them on the ground near a large, cavern entrance and piles of equipment. Luna held three of the Diamond Dogs in her magic as Twilight attempted to interrogate them.
“Hunter.” Fluttershy went to him as he landed.
“What’s going on?” He asked.
“We discovered these three in the mine.” Luna informed.
“They aren’t being very talkative.” Twilight stepped back from them as one laughed.
“Weak little ponies can’t scare us.” The Dog scoffed. “We won’t tell you anything. Once our pack finds out we’re missing, they come and make you regret messing with us.”
“If you answer our questions, I promise that no harm will come to you.” Luna bargained.
“Yeah.” Fluttershy got closer to them. “Ridgeback is an awful creature and he needs to be stopped.”
The Dog’s mouth jutted forward in an attempt to bite her, causing her to skitter behind Twilight. “Ridgeback strong. Ridgeback show Diamond Dogs how to be stronger and how to be better.”
“Let him go.” Hunter came in.
“What?” Luna looked to him in confusion.
“Let him go.” He repeated, taking off his helm.
“Hunter.” Twilight saw the look in his eyes, the same look he bore before he killed Stinger. “What are you going to do?”
“Demonstrate proper interrogation technique.” He looked to Luna again.
Luna hesitated, but ultimately reworked her magic to free the defiant creature. The Dog stood as Hunter approached him, only offering him a mocking smile. “What little birdy do? You think…” He was taken to the ground in an instant; Hunter’s talon wrapped around his throat, his back paws pinning his legs and his other talon pointed at his eye.
“Hunter!” Twilight went to stop him but Luna held her wing out to halt her.
“Listen to me very carefully.” Hunter growled. “Ridgeback isn’t coming for you. Your pack isn’t coming for you. At this moment in time, I am your entire existence; and if you want that existence to continue I suggest you drop the macho act and tell us where Ridgeback went and what happened to the ponies of this town.”
“I… I...” The Dog stammered, his bravery quickly fading under Hunter’s intensity.
“Now!” Hunter commanded, rearing his arm back to strike. “I’ve got two other sacks of shit I can talk to if you’re too proud!”
“Okay!” He whimpered. “Ridgeback and giant bird take ponies to Badlands. Pack help them rebuild and continue mining.” Tears began to well in his eyes. “Please… no hurt me!”
Under the gasps of his friends, Hunter thrust his talon down as the Dog screamed; piercing the rocky ground beside his head. His eyes opened once he realized he wasn’t harmed and he looked up into Hunter’s icy glare. “If I find out that any of those ponies have died because of you and your pack… I promise you’ll see me again and it'll be the last thing you see.” Hunter stood and left him in a cowering heap.
Twilight sighed in relief, not entirely certain that Hunter was going to stop. “We should take them back with us.”
“Yeah.” Hunter put his helm back on. “Can’t have them warning Ridgeback.”
“I shall escort them back to Canterlot.” Luna encased them in magic.
“Okay.” Twilight nodded. “I can carry Rarity and Applejack back on my own.”
“I shall see you at the castle then.” Luna hoisted their captives into the air and started back for the royal city.
“Sorry.” Hunter apologized as he adjusted his armor. “Didn’t mean to scare you.”
“That’s okay.” Fluttershy assured. “It worked.”
“Did you find anything in the village?” Twilight asked.
“We’ve got a little girl.” He relayed. “She pretty much verified the other half of the Diamond Dog’s story. Ridgeback is holding the ponies captive; making the men mine for him and keeping the women and children as hostages.”
“At least we know they’re alive.” Fluttershy tried to find the bright spot in all this.
“For now, at least.” Hunter said gravely. “What can you tell me about the Badlands?”
“It’s a deserted and desolate part of Equestria.” Twilight informed. “Nothing but dry soil and rocks that culminate in a deep canyon.”
“He knew we’d find this place eventually.” Hunter surmised. “He couldn’t kill us so now he’s holed himself up somewhere he can control; and with these Diamond Dogs helping him, he and Skyfall have a small army.”
“What do we do then?” Fluttershy asked.
“Well, as long as he needs miners the ponies will be kept alive.” Hunter began imagining scenarios. “But now we’re outnumbered and we’re going to have to fight on his terms.” His mind played out different situations, none of them favorable. “I’ll need to take a look at any maps of the Badlands you have; we’ll need more Intel before we can tackle this. First thing though, we need to get that girl back to Canterlot where it’s safe.”
The three of them returned to the small village and rejoined the others. After sharing information, Fluttershy took Willow onto her back and they made their way home to the castle. Luna had already given her sister the grim news about the guards they discovered and as Sunset predicted she was struck hard. Hunter went to see her, being directed to her chambers by Luna. He quietly entered and knocked on the doorframe to the massive boudoir.
“Hunter.” She ran her hoof under her eyes.
“I’m sorry, Princess.” He slowly nodded as he approached her. “If it means anything coming from another soldier; if we have to die in the line of duty… dying on our feet, fighting for a cause we believe in, is the way we’d all prefer to go. Those stallions gave their all to try and save the ponies of that town; they’re the real deal.”
“Thank you, Hunter.” Celestia offered him a light smile. “I will ensure that they are retrieved and laid to rest with honor.” A burdened sigh escaped her. “I should not have sent them out so hastily. I did not yet fully understand the threat we face.”
“The worst thing you can do is blame yourself.” Hunter sat beside her. “You didn’t do this to them, Ridgeback did; and I’m going to make sure he pays for it.”
Celestia looked to him with conflicted eyes. “In all my years, out of all the villains I faced to protect Equestria, I have never encountered such a… lack of compassion for life.” She thought back over the hundreds of years. “Even the most diabolical creature understood the value of life; they may have sought power, control or enslavement but they never butchered with such heartlessness.” Her eyes belied a deep guilt. “I understand why you killed Stinger; and it pains me to no end that in this moment… I wish the same for the other two. What does that say of me?”
Hunter chose his next words carefully. “It says that you care.” He finally answered. “You care enough to find the strength to do what needs to be done to ensure that such tragedy never happens again. At least that’s how I feel about it.”
“I am not as used to these deeds as you.” She recalled their heated discussion before.
“I’m never used to it, Princess.” Hunter shook his head. “Every time I take a life, the weight of what I’ve done stays with me forever. That’s the difference between men like me and men like Ridgeback; he doesn’t feel that weight, killing is just another part of his day.”
“What leads a creature to live such an existence?” She asked.
“I’ll be honest with you, it’s a lot less complicated than you think.” He looked back to her. “Where I come from, there are good people who do good things and there are bad people who do bad things; on top of that, a good person is not beyond doing something bad and a bad person is not beyond doing something good. It all just boils down to a simple choice, decided by how they feel at the time they make that choice. There is no grand good or evil that drives or dictates the world... just a bunch of individuals making a choice." He shrugged. "All you can do is push for a world where more good is done than bad, that’s what Sunset and her human friends are doing. They not only do good, but they work to make others around them be better than they are; doing that is what improves the world as a whole." He stuck his thumb in his chest. "Me? I do bad things to bad creatures, human and monster alike, so that the good can live in peace. That's the choice I've made." He sighed as he concluded.
“Sunset said that we would not come out of this the same as when we went in.” Celestia further recalled her former student’s words. “She was most certainly correct.” She stood. “I mustn’t’ wallow in doubt though, not while those monsters still roam free.” She took a collective breath. “Thank you, Hunter. To be equally honest, I think you are the only one I could have had this talk with and you have given me some perspective.”
“I normally don’t like these serious talks.” Hunter stood as well. “But if it helps, then I don’t mind. I think Twilight is waiting her turn though.”
“I’ll see her now.” Celestia nodded.
Hunter left the Princess and went in search of Sunset, finding her back in their room. “Sunny.”
“Hey.” Sunset smiled. “How’s Celestia?”
“Her cage is rattled, but it’s got strong bars.” He sat beside her. “How’s Willow?”
“She’s with Rarity and Fluttershy.” She answered. “They’re keeping her mind off of things.”
Hunter nodded. “Best you can do for the moment.”
“What about you?” Sunset got behind him, setting her hooves to his shoulders.
“I’m fine.” He grinned, receiving a sound thump to the back of his head.
“I’m your girlfriend now.” She reminded. “You don’t get to play everything off anymore.”
He let out a thoughtful breath. “My ribs are killing me, I feel bad for Celestia, I’m worried I won’t be able to keep that promise to Willow and I don’t know if we can beat these odds without bolstering our numbers.”
“I don’t want you keeping all this to yourself anymore.” She laid against his back. “We’re sharing the ups and the downs now.”
“Right.” He reached up and took her hoof. “I promise you’ll only have to remind me about seven more times.” He flinched as he saw the shadow of her hoof over his head but instead he felt a kiss.
“I’ll remind you as many times as I have to.” She laughed.
Sunset had coaxed Hunter to lay down in lieu of the early hour; he soon fell asleep, his full mind playing out a series of bizarre and vivid dreams. He awoke with a sudden jump and roused Sunset who was spooned against him.
“You okay?” She asked, rubbing his arm.
“What time is it?” Hunter saw that the room was dark.
“It’s still the middle of the night.” She informed. “You’ve been asleep most of the day.”
“I have?”
“It’s okay.” She assured. “You needed it.”
He settled back down, accepting her foreleg across his midsection. “Sorry, didn’t mean to wake you up.”
“Bad dreams?”
“Something like that.” He nodded lightly.
“There’s still a few hours before dawn.” She cuddled up with him again. “You should try and rest some more.”
“Yeah.” He leaned over and kissed her head before settling back down and closing his eyes. It seemed only a few moments, but when he opened them again the room was filled with morning light. With a quiet sigh he started stroking Sunset’s mane until she came to. “Morning.”
“Morning.” She kissed the underside of his beak. “Any more dreams?”
“Just the one lying next to me.” He smiled.
Sunset’s cheeks reddened. “You keep talking like that and I’m not going to wait until your ribs are healed.” She countered with wink.
“Oh, don’t threaten me.” He rolled on top of her.
“Easy, fly boy.” She reached up and held his head, bringing his beak to her lips. As they languidly kissed, Sunset jumped at a knock at the door.
“Sunset? Hunter?” Twilight’s voiced called.
Hunter laughed and got out of bed, heading over to the door. “I don’t recall ordering room service.” He noted as he opened up.
“Sorry.” Twilight apologized. “I just wanted to let you know that I was heading back to Ponyville to get some information on the Badlands. I thought you two might like to come along.”
“Good idea.” Hunter agreed. “The quicker we can get some info the faster we can make our move.” He looked back to Sunset. “Coming?”
“Yeah.” She hopped out of bed and fixed her mane. “Just give us a minute.”
“Sure.” Twilight nodded. “I’ll be downstairs when you’re ready.”
Taking a few minutes to freshen up, they hurried down to set out with Twilight. As they stepped from the castle and into the morning sun, Hunter took Sunset up in his arms again.
“Are you sure this isn’t hurting you?” She asked.
“A little.” He confessed. “But this is one activity I’m not giving up.”
“Okay.” Sunset held him tightly.
Twilight couldn’t help but smile at how enamored the two of them were towards each other. The trio took flight and headed back for Ponyville. Arriving back at the castle, Twilight called for Spike as they passed the threshold.
“Spike, I’m back!”
After a few moments, Spike flew down from upstairs. “Twilight.” He hugged her neck. “I was getting worried.”
“I know, it’s been a crazy few days.” She welcomed him to her back. “How have…”
“There you are!” A voice interrupted as Starlight came hurrying down the rear hall.
“Starlight?” Twilight went to her. “You’re back.”
“Not a moment too soon, apparently.” Starlight gave her mentor a hug. “Spike told me everything.” She looked past Twilight to see Sunset and Hunter. “Sunset, you really are here.”
“It’s good to see you again.” Sunset smiled. “Wish it was under better circumstances.”
“And you must be Hunter.” Starlight observed the newcomer to their circle.
“In the feathers.” He happily confirmed.
“So what’s going on now?” Starlight asked.
“We came back so I could look a few things up.” Twilight explained. “Sunset, how about you bring her up the speed while I hit the books.”
“Okay.” Sunset nodded as she looked back to Starlight. “Grab a chair, this is going to take a while.”
While Twilight combed through her volumes, Sunset and Hunter detailed all the events leading up to the current moment. For nearly two hours, Starlight sat in near disbelief at the convoluted and harrowing tale. Sunset sighed as she finished her recap and sat back in her chair.
“Which brings us to now.” She shrugged.
“Wow.” Starlight shook her head. “Well, I’m here now. So I’ll help however I can.”
“Good to hear.” Hunter noted. “We’re going to need whatever help we can get to make this last push.”
Starlight gave him her attention. “So, you’re from the human world?”
“Yeah.” He nodded.
“Starlight’s been to our world once before.” Sunset relayed. “She even saved our butts from more Equestrian magic.”
“Well, at that point I already had some experience in the world saving department.” She humbly rubbed the back of her head. “How do you and Sunset know each other?”
“That’s its own story.” He admitted. “Short version is she and her friends stuck their noses into my mission, and my life has been better ever since.” He smiled over at Sunset.
“Yep.” Sunset reached over and patted his talon. “Believe it or not, this feather duster is my boyfriend now.”
“Really?” Starlight laughed.
“Uh huh.” Hunter nodded. “The bacon haired heroine here swept me off my feet.” He stood and feigned a faint into her lap.
“I still have thirty days to return him if I’m not completely satisfied.” Sunset giggled as she held him.
“Wow.” Hunter toned at her sharp quip. “You’ve been hanging around me too long.”
“I know.” She bent down and kissed him.
Starlight chuckled at their display as Twilight entered the room. “Should I come back later?” She observed the couple with a crooked smile.
“What did you find?” Sunset pushed Hunter off of her and he returned to his seat.
“Well, I found an old map of the Badlands that was charted by ponies who explored the area in depth.” Twilight began as she sat beside Starlight. “Given the nature of the terrain I can’t imagine it’s changed much. I also found their written records on the region.” She levitated a large parchment from her bag. “I used my magic to make a copy of the map and the rest is in these books, I took the liberty of marking the pages.” She proudly added.
“That’s a good start.” Hunter acknowledged. “Plus, Starlight says she’s in for the fight.”
“That’s great.” Twilight smiled. “When it comes to raw magical talent, Starlight’s even more powerful than I am.”
“Well…” Starlight blushed with a light nod. “Maybe a little.”
“Do you know anyone else who might be willing to help?” Sunset asked.
“This is way out of Trixie’s league.” Starlight said surely. “Thorax and the changelings could help… but since their reformation they’re not much for fighting anymore.”
“Can’t be mad at that.” Hunter laughed shortly.
“What about Ember?” Starlight turned to Twilight.
“I thought of that.” Twilight shook her head. “But it’s the dragon migration season, missing that would disrupt their whole nesting cycle and she wouldn’t do that.”
“We can deal with our staffing problem after we know what we’re doing.” Hunter stood and requested the map. “Let me take a look at this and see what we’re up against.”
“Okay.” Twilight passed him the materials.
“Make sure you talk about me while I’m gone.” He waved as he left the room.
Starlight snorted, glancing over at Sunset. “He’s… interesting.”
“I know.” Sunset shook her head with a smile. “He’s an acquired taste.”
“You seem really happy though.” She pointed out. “I’m glad.”
“Thanks.” Sunset nodded.
“How about Spike and I work on lunch while we let him do his thing.” Twilight suggested.
“Sounds good.” Starlight rubbed her stomach. “I haven’t eaten since I left the Crystal Empire.”
Hunter took the map and Twilight’s books into a quiet room and began his evaluation. He scanned the terrain, cross referencing areas mentioned in the texts that had been explored. After some time, the door opened and Spike flew in with a sandwich.
“Hey there, thought you might want something to eat by now.” Spike laid the plate before him.
Hunter stretched and smiled. “Thanks.”
“No problem.” Spike sat on the table. “How’s it coming?”
“Depends on how you look at it.” Hunter said as he took a bite. “Based on what I’m seeing, there are a few ideal places where Ridgeback could hold up. He may be using the ponies as slave labor, but he needs them alive and healthy enough to work; that means a supply of food and water. Food can be bought, but only a few places in all of the Badlands have any type of access to water.” He paused to take another bite. “Thousands of years of erosion have also carved out a network of tunnels that run throughout the place; some of them are noted as running almost clear to the sea.” Hunter laid the half eaten sandwich down with a sigh. “Before we can approach, we need an aerial sweep of the area to find out exactly where they are. Once I have their location, I can pick a strategy on how to move in.”
“Why not just get the whole royal army and storm the place?” Spike asked.
“Because we can’t risk the ponies that are being held hostage being harmed in the melee… or worse.” Hunter explained. “Besides, Celestia’s stallions already went up against them and it didn’t turn out well. They’re not trained for this kind of fight and I’m not letting those bastards take any more innocent lives.” He saw a sullen look in Spike’s eyes. “What’s wrong?”
“I just wish I could do more than make sandwiches.” He lowered his head. “You guys are out fighting and all I can do is sit here and… dust the furniture.”
“I feel you.” Hunter said with a slow nod. “But listen, don’t waste your time worrying about what you can’t do and put your energy into what you can do. Wars are more than the battlefield. They encompass everything around them and impact everyone from the soldiers on the field to the citizens back home.” He lightly punched Spike’s arm. “Believe me, what you do here for us is just as important as what we’re doing out there.”
“Okay.” Spike cheered at the support. “I will.”
“Don’t worry.” Hunter smiled. “You’re a dragon, right? When you grow up you’ll be whippin everybody’s ass.”
The door opened again and Twilight joined them. “Hey, how’s it coming along?”
“Got some ideas.” Hunter spun his chair around. “What was the name of that team that Rainbow Dash brought along last time?”
“The Wonderbolts?” Twilight asked back.
“Yeah.” He nodded. “Do you think we can get a hold of them? If they’re up for it, I’ve got a recon job for them.”
“Definitely.” Twilight said surely. “I’ll send word to Canterlot and have Fluttershy go to see them right away.” As she left, Hunter rose and tossed the last bite of sandwich into his mouth. “Now I just need to do something about our roster.” They met back up with the others and Hunter excused himself for a while to head out into Ponyville. As he left the stoop of the castle’s entrance he turned at the sound of a sharp cry. He held out his arms, catching the incoming gray blur and smiling as he recognized its off center eyes.
“Hey there, D.” He cradled her.
“Oh… hi there.” Derpy laughed with embarrassment. “Sorry about that. I’ve really got to stop reading addresses while I’m flying.” A sort of recognition washed over her face as she looked up at Hunter. “Do I… know you from somewhere?”
“Me?” Hunter asked. “Nah, a sweetheart like you wouldn’t be caught dead with a mangy bird like me.”
Derpy giggled with slightly reddened cheeks. “Oh, I’ve got a letter for Princess Twilight.” Her mouth reached into the mail bag and retrieved an envelope.
“Thanks.” Hunter took it from her. “Hey, if you’re the mail mare then can you tell me where to find a pony named Maud?”
“Sure.” Derpy nodded. “She lives in a cavern just south of town. Look for the stone mailbox at the entrance.”
“Much appreciated.” Hunter looked around. “So, which way you headed?”
“Uh… that way.” She pointed eastward.
“Got it.” He hoisted her up like a glider and threw her eastward, she caught her aerial balance and waved back at him as she continued on her route. “Heh, nice to know somethings are the same.” After placing the letter in Twilight's mailbox, he flew southward in search of Maud’s cavern and came upon the stone mailbox he was advised about. Flying down and through the tunnel, he soon emerged in the underground paradise that was Maud’s home. “Nice.” He muttered after an impressed whistle.
“Hello.” The deadpan voice of Maud hailed.
“Hi.” Hunter turned to her. “Sorry, I would have knocked but… no door.”
“I know.” Maud looked to the massive hole in the wall that led to her sanctum. “I’m looking to get one installed, but you’d be surprised at how high the quotes are.”
“If contractors here are anything like the ones in my world, I can imagine.” He chuckled. “I’ve got a favor to ask, if you don’t mind?”
“What?” She asked.
“This little war of ours is going to be coming to close; the creatures we’re tracking are in the Badlands and I’ve discovered that the area underneath is a maze of caves and tunnels.”
“I’ve visited the Badlands.” Maud plainly stated. “Even I couldn’t stand being there for very long, and that’s saying something.”
“Well, we’re going to need all the help we can get for this battle and given your expertise I have a feeling you’d come in handy.” Hunter began. “I won’t ask you to fight, but given on how things play out you could be a huge asset.”
Maud stood silent for a moment. “You don’t have to ask.” She finally responded. “If my sister is fighting, then I’ll fight too.”
Hunter smiled. “You Pie ladies are tough cookies.”
“You should meet our mother.” Maud smirked as she began following him.
“Should we lock up before we go?” He grinned.
“You’re pretty funny.” She dryly complimented. “Almost as funny as me.”
When they made it back to Twilight’s castle, they found Spitfire added to the mix as she spoke with the Princess and her friends.
“Maud?” Starlight stood at the sight of her friend.
“Hello, Starlight.” Maud went to her side.
“Are you going to be with us on this?” She asked.
“Is granite 75% silica?” Maud asked in return, getting a laugh from Starlight.
Hunter stepped over to Spitfire and held out his talon. “Didn’t catch the name last time.” He admitted.
“Spitfire.” She placed her hoof firmly in his talon.
“With a name like that, you should be out winning rap battles.” He chortled. “Thanks for coming on such short notice.”
“Not a problem, given the situation.” She said stoutly. “The Princess said you had a mission for the Wonderbolts.”
“I need a reconnaissance sweep of the Badlands.” He explained. “Ridgeback and Skyfall are holding an entire village of ponies hostage and using them to mine. They’re being aided by the Diamond Dogs and I’m trying to determine the best way to stage our assault. Fly over the area and find out exactly where they are; stay high and out of sight though, if you’re seen then we run the risk of them retreating further or harming the ponies.”
“Is that something your team can help with?” Twilight asked.
“In our sleep, Princess.” Spitfire said surely. “Leave it to the Wonderbolts.” She gave Twilight a salute.
“Thank you, Spitfire.” Twilight nodded in return. “We’ll meet you back in Canterlot.”
As Spitfire headed out, Sunset went to Hunter’s side. “Looks like we’re getting a pretty solid team together.”
“Yeah.” Hunter put his arm around her. “But what happens next depends on what Spitfire finds.”
“We should head back to Canterlot.” Twilight suggested. “With Starlight and Maud, we’re going to have to use the balloon again.”
“Right.” Hunter nodded. “Go ahead and get ready, I’ve got one more thing I want to do before we go.”
“Okay.” Twilight nodded and he took Sunset upstairs with him.
“What do you need to do?” Sunset asked as she followed him along.
“We're going to take a quick trip back to the human world.” He smiled back at her.
“We are?” She followed him into the portal room.
“Yep.” He gestured for her to step through.
Sunset passed through the portal and found herself before the school once more, the area was quiet as given the time of day, classes were still in session. “So what…” As she turned back to Hunter he took her wrist and pulled her into a kiss. Her arms immediately went around him as she passionately returned his affection; after a long minute he slowly pulled himself from her.
“That’s even better now that I have lips again.” He whispered with a quiet smile.
“I agree.” She ran her fingertips up and down his back.
“It might not be a pleasant thought.” Hunter began. “But I wanted this at least once, just in case.”
“I get it.” She nodded. “But I’m not worried, I know we’ll get through this.”
They heard the lunch bell ring as they idled. Not wanting to be seen, they hurried back through the portal as the students began pouring out of the main entrance to the school.
The return trip to Canterlot came with another surprise as Cadence and Shining Armor awaited them in the throne room along with the royal sisters.
“Cadence, big brother!” Twilight hurried to them and fell into a group hug.
“Hey, Twily.” Shining Armor rubbed the top of her head.
“It’s good to see you safe after all we’ve heard from Celestia.” Cadence added.
Celestia joined their circle. “I took the liberty of contacting them after you left.” She noted. “With the talk of needing reinforcements from Fluttershy, I thought they would be the perfect pair to aid us.”
“Absolutely.” Shining Armor nodded. As Hunter, Sunset, Maud and Starlight approached, the royal couple stepped forward to introduce themselves. “Hunter, I take it.” Shining Armor held his hoof out. “Celestia has already told us about you.” He noted as they shook.
“Warned us, in some ways.” Cadence laughed as she did the same.
Hunter looked past them at the Princess who only offered him an innocent smile in return. “Am I that bad?” He looked back at Sunset.
“Yes.” She said without hesitation. “I just happen to really like you.”
“Jesus.” He sighed. “Well, it’s good to have you on board; I’m starting to feel better about our chances.”
“We heard what you all have been through.” Cadence looked over the group. “Rest assured we will do all we can to help you bring this to an end.”
“Great, as soon as Spitfire gets back I’ll let you know which crazy plan I decide to go with.” Hunter chuckled.
“I’ll get Starlight and Maud settled in.” Sunset volunteered as she led them back out into the halls.
Shining Armor wandered over to Hunter and sat beside him. “I heard you’re a soldier in your world.”
“Not in the traditional sense.” Hunter shrugged. “But yeah, more or less. You?”
“I used to be captain of the guard here before I married Cadence and moved to the Crystal Empire.”
“Haven’t gotten rusty, have you?” Hunter smiled.
“Not at all.” Shining Armor proudly informed. “I still keep up my old drills even to his day.”
“Old training habits die hard, right?”
“You know it.” He nodded.
“Honey?” Cadence called. “I’m going to spend some time with Twilight.”
“Alright, dear.” Shining Armor waved, his smile fading as his wife and sister left earshot. “So seriously, one soldier to another, how bad is this looking?”
“We don’t have the advantage, that’s for sure.” Hunter nodded slowly. “Our enemy knows we’re going to be coming, they have terrain advantage, number advantage and hostages.” He sighed. “I’m really banking on a specific scenario that’s only going to be possible if they’re holed up where I think they are. Won’t know for sure until the scouts get back.” He glanced back to see the Princesses talking to one another. “Can I tell you something?”
“Sure.”
“Celestia’s been dealing with this as best she can, I get that.” Hunter began. “She wasn’t too happy when I killed Stinger and I promised her I’d try to end this without killing Skyfall or Ridgeback. To be honest though, I don’t know if I’m going to be able to keep that promise.”
“Are these guys that bad?”
“Worse.” Hunter shook his head. “If I hold back in this fight to try and keep my promise, I’m going to run the risk of someone getting killed; hostage, ally… or myself.”
Shining Armor nodded understandingly. “I can tell Celestia’s foundation has been rocked by what’s been going on.” He looked over at Hunter. “She does have a lot of respect for you and what you do, you know. When we spoke she told us it takes a strong creature, pony or human, to live and fight in the type of world you do and still have so noble a heart.”
Hunter breathed a laugh. “I wish my supervisors felt that way.”
“Point is, she knows that at the end of the day you both want to see Equestria safe.” Shining Armor summarized. “As a soldier, I get that you have to do what you have to in order to make that happen; and I know that she does too.”
Hunter looked back at the Princess again and nodded. “Thanks.”
Just as worry was beginning to set in, the Wonderbolts finally returned to the castle; Celestia summoned everyone to the conference hall for their penultimate strategy meeting. Spitfire laid Twilight’s map of the Badlands out on the table and began reporting their findings.
“Okay, everypony.” She began. “We’ve located the enemy camp and it’s here.” She pointed to a spot near the north western corner of the Badlands. “The area has only one, open access path leading into it and the surrounding canyon walls are sheer and appear unclimbable. The ponies are being housed in a shanty town and there are three, larger wood structures located to the encampment’s southern end.”
“Do you know what they are?” Luna asked.
“No, we didn’t see any movement in or out.” Spitfire shook her head. “The ponies we saw were moving carts of rock in and out of a shaft against the canyon wall. The entrance is guarded by Diamond Dogs as well as key locations here, here and here.” She pointed to the camp's access path and two other locations to its south and north. “Both targets that were described are there as well.” She looked to the Princesses. “That’s all we could see from the air.”
“Well done, Spitfire.” Celestia praised. “Thank you, all of you.”
“Princess!” The Wonderbolts responded as they saluted.
“Alright Hunter.” Celestia turned her attention to him. “What do you make of all this?”
“Well… fortunately, they’re right where I was hoping they’d be.” Hunter began walking around the table. “Which is good, because our options if that wasn’t the case were pretty grim. But, I do have a plan that should undo most of their advantages.”
“Which is?” Twilight queried.
“We’re going to flood the place.” He answered with a tilted smile.
“What?” Applejack raised her brow.
“Yeah, how are you going to flood a dried up canyon?” Rainbow Dash continued.
“Using their mine.” He laid his talon to the map. “The Badlands have a system of tunnels and caves beneath it that were detailed in one of the books Twilight gave me. This area they are in is below sea level and a huge portion of it is below the water table. They can mine, but those tunnels are just feet from the surrounding aquifers; it’s the same underground waterways that feed into the Hayseed swamps that run around the exterior of the Badlands.” He drug his talon around the area. “Suffice to say, they’re sitting in a giant bowl on top of a lake and we’re going to punch a hole in the bottom.”
“You’re right.” Sunset nodded. “That is a crazy plan.”
“If we do this, what about the ponies that are being held?” Celestia asked.
“Well, that’s where our numbers come into play.” He looked over the now group of four Princesses. “I’m going to need you to do a mass teleportation out of the area. Can the four of you handle that?”
“We’ve never attempted such a feat.” Luna said honestly. “Teleportation is not as simple as it appears and our magic would have to be perfectly synchronized.”
“That’s true.” Twilight concurred. “If we’re off even a little, there’s no telling what could happen to the individual ponies.”
“It will be done, Hunter.” Celestia assured.
“Celestia?” Cadence eyed her unsurely.
“I know we can accomplish this, Cadence.” Celestia confidently stated. “If there is any combination of magic that can perform this task, it is ours.”
“That’s the spirit.” Hunter smiled.
“Very well.” Luna nodded. “If it is a miracle you require, then a miracle you shall have.”
“If you believe we can, then I shall give it my all.” Cadence agreed.
“Same here.” Twilight added.
“Alright then.” Hunter let out a long breath. “Here’s how this is going to go down. Maud is going to lead a team down into tunnels and get into position below the camp; I’ve already got an access point in mind so all you have to worry about is finding the best position to rupture the tunnels and start the flooding. You’re going to need a teleport out, so Starlight will be with you along with Pinkie and Applejack.” He set his eyes to Shining Armor. “You and I are going to move in and get the fight started, take the Wonderbolts and go after the Diamond Dogs.”
“I’ll be joining them.” Rarity announced. “I still owe those mutts for last time.”
“What about you?” Shining Armor asked.
“I’m going to pull Skyfall and Ridgeback away from the ponies so the Princesses can start the extraction.” Hunter explained.
“You can’t take them both alone.” Sunset worriedly insisted.
“It won’t be forever, Sunny.” He promised. “Once the ponies are evacuated then I’ll have plenty of backup.” He looked to the Princesses. “Once I have their attention, move in and round up the ponies. We’ll set up a location outside the camp where Fluttershy and Sunset will be waiting to keep them calm and organized.”
“I can help with that.” Rainbow Dash raised her hoof.
“You still can’t walk.” Hunter reminded.
“I can fly.” She spread her wings. “I spend most of my time in the air anyway. I can help get the ponies to safety to free up Sunset. You’ll need all the magic you can get for the fight.”
Hunter nodded acceptingly. “Okay. Sunny, stick with Shining Armor and leave the ponies to Shy and Dash.”
“Right.” Sunset acknowledged.
“Now, for the timing.” He looked back to Maud. “We’ll give you thirty minutes to get into position. After that, give us ten before you break open the dam.”
“No problem.” Maud said evenly.
“Once the water starts to fill the area, the Diamond Dogs will become useless and I’ll be able to use my Sea Pony form. After that, we just have to take down Skyfall and Ridgeback.” He stood back from the table. “Sound like a plan?” He looked around to hear words of agreement from his friends. “Alright then; tomorrow, come hell or literal high water, we end this.”
That night, they all gathered around the lavish dining hall table to relax before the undoubtedly perilous mission. Hunter did what he did best and kept the table on its toes as everyone swapped stories and ribs. As Starlight finished detailing her time in the Crystal Empire, Celestia took a moment to speak up.
“My friends.” She looked over the assembly. “Sitting here, I find that it is true what they say about the worst of times bringing the best of reunions. I had never imagined that one day I would be able to share an evening like this with both of my brightest students.” She smiled at Sunset and Twilight. “Our situation is grave and Equestria has suffered loss, not only of life but of innocence in some respects. Even so, this moment is one that will remain a beacon in my heart no matter what may come.” She used her magic to raise her glass. “A solemn toast; to family, friends both new and old and to those that our world has lost.”
“Well said.” Hunter raised his glass, the others following suit.
As the evening wound down, the group slowly separated for the night and Sunset returned to her room with Hunter. She sat on the edge of the bed and watched him as he set out the pieces of his armor. “Tonight was really nice, wasn’t it?”
“All things considered, yeah.” He looked over his shoulder at her. “This world has a lot of heart, it really shined through around that table. I’m not used to having nice evenings, let alone ones before a mission; it’s a good feeling.” He set his helm down and stood. “All my fights have been won by being prepared, having the best equipment and making the right calls… nothing more and nothing less.” He joined her on the bed. “But it’s surprising how just knowing you aren’t going in alone makes you feel more ready than any of that.”
“Well, teaching the values of friendship is what Celestia and Twilight are all about.”
“And you.” He ran his thumb over her chin. “You taught my ass, that’s for sure.”
Sunset smiled and kissed his talon. “Thanks.” She reached over and ran her hoof across his abdomen. “So, how you feeling?”
“Good.” He patted his midsection. “Good enough for a brawl anyway.”
“What about this?” She whispered, pulling him into a long kiss. Hunter laced his arms around her, lightly digging his nails into her back.
“I think I can handle it.” He smiled as her lips left him. “Can you?” He grinned.
Sunset rolled her eyes and pushed him back onto the bed. “Do yourself a favor and don’t talk.” With a loving giggle she straddled his body and gave herself up to him.
Hunter’s talons were combing Sunset’s mane when she awoke, her entire body richly relaxed after the prior night.
“You know.” Hunter quietly pondered as he noticed her wake. “My life hasn’t exactly been all cash and prizes; but knowing that it led me to this moment right here, I wouldn’t change one damn thing.”
“I know exactly how you feel.” Sunset smiled contently.
“Ready to go lay the law down on some scumbags?” He asked with a cocky smirk.
“Absolutely.” She nodded.
Within the hour, everyone was assembled and ready to head out for the Badlands. Hunter took a moment to lay out the plan one more time using the map, showing each team their stations. With a final rousing speech from Celestia, they moved out to face their enemies one final time. Even Hunter remained fairly quiet during the trip, knowing that there was little more to say and allowing the others to mentally prepare as they needed. Nearing the area of operation, they lowered their altitude to stay out of sight; dropping off Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash at the chosen extraction point. Maud and her team were next to be deposited off at their entrance point, a cave that led into the tunnel which would take them underneath Ridgeback’s mining operation. The four Princesses held formation on top of the plateau overlooking the encampment and Hunter, Sunset, Rarity, Shining Armor and the Wonderbolts proceeded to move in for the attack. Maneuvering down the side of the cliff, they stealthily took out several of the Diamond Dogs that were standing guard, ensuring that they wouldn’t be noticed until they were at the front door. From there, they waited the remaining allotted time for Maud to get into position before Hunter flew down into the midst of the Diamond Dogs.
“Hey mutts!” He called as he landed.
The confused Dogs immediately closed in on Hunter. “That bird-horse that Ridgeback warn us about!” One of them shouted.
“I see someone failed English.” Hunter grinned.
“Boss!” Another of the Dogs yelled. “He here!”
The large shadow of Skyfall swooped down from the opposite cliff side and landed beside Ridgeback who emerged from one of the three large, wooden shacks. The ominous pair made their way over and halted before the circle of henchmen.
“I’m getting real fucking sick of you.” Ridgeback snorted.
“Feelings’ mutual, Boss Hog.” Hunter eyed him fearlessly.
“I’m going to kill you for what you did to my wing.” Skyfall glared at him.
“Hey, this asshole threw the tree.” Hunter gestured to Ridgeback.
“Quiet!” Ridgeback slashed his hand through the air. “A cart of gems to whichever one of you kills this little shit!”
With eager smiles the Diamond Dogs began to move in, their attention was garnered upward as a series of shadows came down from above; the Wonderbolts dove down and each plowed into one of the attackers, sending them flying.
“Of course.” Skyfall looked past Hunter to see Shining Armor, Rarity and Sunset charging in as well. He reared his head back and let out a piercing screech, all the Diamond Dogs came running and engaged Hunter’s allies.
Hunter glanced back and watched the melee for a moment before turning back to his opponents. “Guess that just leaves us.”
“Fine with me.” Ridgeback lunged forward and brought his massive fist down onto Hunter. As he evaded, Skyfall sent his quills up at him only to see them deflect off of the armor.
Hunter purely dodged the attacks that were sent at him, slowly leading the duo away from the tents that housed the ponies. From the top of the plateau, the Princesses saw the situation and teleported down into the camp to handle their part of the job. Twilight and Cadence galloped to the tents and used their magic to lift the flaps.
“Princess Twilight?” One of the stallions recognized the now world famous Princess of Friendship.
“Yes, my friends and I are here to free you.” Twilight quickly informed. “Come with me and stay close.”
Cadence went to the next tent, finding a group of frightened colts and fillies. “Don’t worry little ones.” She gave them a calm smile. “We’re going to save you, come with me and stay very close, okay?” She received a series of timid nods as the young ones followed her out. The sisters in law went from tent to tent until all had been emptied of their prisoners.
Luna flew into the mouth of the mine, her horn lighting the way as she delved deep into the winding tunnel. Following the sound of picks and labored grunts, she discovered the unwilling miners toiling under the whips of the Diamond Dogs. “Fiendish cowards!” Her voice echoed throughout the tunnel. “Release these ponies!”
“It Princess pony.” The lead Dog pointed at the intruder. “Ridgeback say he pay big for one of them.” He reared his whip back and sent the tip at Luna.
Luna caught the whip in her magic and tied it around his hands. “You’ll find me no easy prey.” Luna sent him to the ground with a blast of her magic. The other dogs ran in only to be blocked by a magical barrier, Luna pushed it forward with great force and slammed them into the jagged wall of the tunnel. Using her magic to shatter the chains around the ponies' legs, she began leading them to freedom.
Celestia set her sights on the unknown wooden buildings, she landed before the first and ripped the door off with her magic. She was not ready for what was inside and her heart all but shattered at what she found. The mares had been chained to the floor and walls, their bodies covered in bruises and their cheeks matted with days’ worth of shed tears. “No…” She faltered as her mind came to terms with what her eyes beheld.
“Princess?” One of them weakly smiled at the sight of her.
“Is that really Princess Celestia?” Another raised her head at the commotion.
“Yes, I am here.” Celestia composed herself as she began rending their chains. “You have my word that you are safe now.” The battered mares limped to her side, hope returning to their eyes. “My allies are seeing to your friends and families as we speak. Come with me and we will get you to safety.” Celeistia found much the same in the remaining two shacks, freeing the mares held there in kind and doubling back to find her fellow Alicorns.
Beneath the battlefield, Maud and her team began working to let loose the waters around them. The expert in all things rock started marking key points for the powerful Applejack to shatter with her bucking.
“These spots will open up passages into the mining tunnels.” Maud blandly explained.
“On it.” Applejack went to the first spot and turned her back to it, she kicked the tunnel wall and a small hole opened up.
“Give it another.” Pinkie cheered her on.
“Right.” Applejack dug her fore hooves into the ground and delivered another solid kick that opened up the wall.
“Hey!” A gruff voice came from the other side. “Who poke holes in wall?” The head of a Diamond Dog came through the opening.
“I got him.” Starlight wrapped him in magic and brought him through to their side, clamping a magical muzzle over his mouth to keep him quiet.
“Hurry, we don’t have much time.” Maud pointed to the other spots. While Applejack continued her demolition, she turned her attention to the opposite wall; laying her ear to it as she walked down the path.
“What’cha listing for?” Pinkie asked as she walked alongside her sister.
“Water.” Maud answered.
“Okay, Maud.” Applejack hurried over to her. “That side is ready.”
“Good.” Maud stood back and pointed to a spot on the tunnel wall. “Now, break here.” She looked down the way to Starlight. “We’re going to need to go as soon as she breaks through. Unless you want to drown.”
“Not really.” Starlight released her captive and looked him in the eye. “Listen fleabag, unless you and your friends want to take a permanent bath, get your sorry butts out of here now.”
Applejack got into position and struck the wall, it shattered like dried wood and a massive surge of water began pouring in. “Starlight!” Applejack called as the water reached their knees within seconds.
“Get close.” Starlight ran into their midst and using a succession of short teleports began moving them towards the exit.
Back on the surface, Shining Armor and his team continued their brawl with the Diamond Dogs. Shining Armor used his barrier magic to form shield after shield to fend incoming attacks while Sunset and Rarity stood at his back, using their magic to zap the waves of incoming adversaries. The Wonderbolts used the air to their advantage, snatching the Dogs from the ground and using them as projectiles to attack the rest of the pack.
“Take that!” Rarity shouted as she unleashed her pent up resentment for the hounds. “And that! And some of this!”
“You’re enjoying this way too much.” Shining Armor glanced back at her.
“It’s therapy, darling!” She assured as she sent another flying back.
“Maud and the others should have made their move by now.” Sunset leapt over his back and blasted another. “We need to get ready to move.”
“As soon as we see the water, we’ll fall back.” Shining Armor grunted as he punched one of the offending creatures square in the jaw. As the minutes passed, they heard screams coming from the entrance to the mine. Diamond Dogs began running out into the open, yelling about water in the tunnels. Behind them, the mine entrance began to gush water like a broken faucet. More water began to come from other, smaller holes in the canyon wall and the bone dry soil was unable to absorb the sheer amount of liquid. As the water began to collect, the Diamond Dogs went into a panic and ceased their fighting to flee. “Okay, now we can go.” Shining Armor whistled and the Wonderbolts descended.
“Ready to fly?” Spitfire asked.
“You bet.” He nodded.
“Alright, let’s move out!” Spitfire ordered as her fellow flyers proceeded to air lift the ground force out of the area.
The Princesses gathered with the dozens of shaken ponies, further stressed by the sudden flooding. Celestia looked over them all and called their attention. “Ponies, please listen.” She began. “We are going to teleport you out of the area in one group. You need to stay calm and gather around us, as close as you can.” The ponies closed in around the four of them in a tight huddle. “Are we ready?”
“Yes sister.” Luna nodded. “My magic will be one with yours.”
“We need to focus on the same point.” Cadence reminded.
“Yeah, right where Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash are waiting.” Twilight added.
“Then let us begin.” Celestia’s horn lit up, the others following suit. They focused their magic, their energies resonating along the same lines as they pictured their destination. In a massive flash, the group vanished from the area and appeared before a startled Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash.
Cadence opened her eyes, observing their surroundings. “We’ve done it.” She sighed in relief.
“Indeed.” Luna smiled. “Well done.”
Without word, Celestia took off and headed back towards the camp. Twilight ran a few steps, calling out to her but receiving no answer. Back in the two on one duel, Hunter found a moment of pause as Ridgeback observed his fleeing army.
“What the hell is going on?” He growled as he lifted his feet, finding himself standing in several inches of water.
“There’s water pouring from the mine.” Skyfall answered from the air.
“What!?” Ridgeback quickly looked to Hunter. “What did you do!?”
“I didn’t do anything.” Hunter said innocently. “I’ve been here the whole time, I swear.”
“Damn you!” Ridgeback charged but was knocked to the ground by a massive wave of magic. Hunter quickly looked up to see Celestia barreling down at them, firing a second blast that pressed Ridgeback’s body into muddy soil.
“You despicable beast!” She screamed, startling even Hunter. “How dare you abuse and violate the ponies of this world!”
“You miserable bit….” Ridgeback started to rise but was sent further into the rising water by another magical surge.
“Silence!” Celestia commanded. “I have met many monsters… but you… you are something even worse! You are something that should not be!”
“Shit.” Hunter muttered as he saw the pure rage in her eyes.
“I’ll get her.” Skyfall flew above her and sent quills her way, she deflected them with a barrier and glared up at him.
“Celestia!” Hunter flew into the air and to her side.
Ridgeback began to laugh as he rose to his feet, finding himself already knee deep in water. “You think I haven’t heard that same shit already?” He looked up at the pair. “The world is a cruel place, you either take or get taken… simple as that.”
“Your world may be cruel!” She challenged. “But mine is not!” She fired again.
Ridgeback raised his arms and absorbed the shock of the blast. “It is.” He smiled. “You’re just too naïve to see it.” He jammed his hands into the muddy earth and upheaved a wave of soil and water at them. Through the distraction, Skyfall charged at them with talons barred. Hunter flew in to intercept, going to face to force him to back off.
“I’ll deal with Skyfall, take Ridgeback!” Hunter called. Once more, he engaged the massive bird; flying about him in random patterns as he evaded the deadly quills. “You’re getting sloppy, Big Bird!” Hunter verbally jabbed.
“I know!” Hunter glanced down, seeing that the water had risen dozens of feet. “I don’t plan to!” He flew in and used his gauntlets to protect himself from the projectiles. Once close enough, he slashed at Skyfall’s chest and opened several wounds. Switching to his talons and teeth, Skyfall began to claw and bite at Hunter with abandon. As Hunter weaved in avoidance, he was suddenly grasped by Skyfall’s long tail.
“Got you!” Skyfall sneered.
“Got you!” Hunter smiled as he latched onto the tail and pulled him downward with all his strength. Skyfall was caught off guard by the sudden move and beat his wings to fight the unwanted decent. “Come on, damn it!” Hunter’s muscles burned as he pulled for all he was worth.
“Move in!” Spitfire’s voice sounded as she directed the Wonderbolts to fan out and surround Skyfall. “Wonderbolts! Bring him down!” The team began to close in, only to be sent scattering by a barrage of quills. They buzzed around him in well trained formation, two of them taking quills in the legs and being forced to retreat.
Hunter saw that they needed a sound blow to bring him down, he released Skyfall’s tail and removed his left gauntlet; letting it fall into the water below. When Skyfall felt himself become free, he looked down at Hunter and sent another wave of quills at him. Hunter raised his exposed talon and allowed one of them to pierce clean through. “Spitfire! I need an opening!”
“On it!” She called back. “Wonderbolts! Spiral formation!” The pegasi began to circle Skyfall in an upward spiral; not being able to focus on any one target to attack, he started spinning in time with them as he labored to track their movement. Hunter ripped the quill from his talon and began flying in his own spiral, staying at Skyfall’s back. He turned in the air and moved in the opposite direction; as Skyfall twisted towards him, he hurled the quill into his right eye. The great bird howled in distress as half his sight was taken from him, he began flying away in reflexive retreat but Hunter had no intent of allowing it a third time.
“Push him into the water!” Hunter ordered.
The Wonderbolts ascended above the flailing creature and dove down, all of them bracing their hooves against him and forcing him down into the forming lake below. With a grand splash, Skyfall’s feathers became soaked and he lost the ability to fly. Hunter dove down into the water, taking on his Sea Pony form. He began to pummel Skyfall’s body as he paddled and kicked in desperation. Hunter exploded from the water’s surface and reverted to his Hippogriff form, slashing Skyfall across the face before diving back down. Repeating the maneuver again and again, Skyfall began to weaken and his resistance slowed. Hunter swam down towards the remnants of the camp and collected a long length of rope, returning to the surface and tossing it across Skyfall’s body. Swimming beneath him, Hunter took both ends and dragged Skyfall beneath the surface. Unable to fly and with blood flowing freely from his many wounds, the once fearsome creature went unconscious and his lungs flooded. Hunter flew from the reddening water and up to Spitfire’s side; understanding what he did, she merely gave him a sound nod as they went to assist the Princesses.
To escape the water, Ridgeback had climbed up to higher ground as he fended off the combined might of the four Princesses as the others had joined Celestia in her assault. Raining magic down onto him, Ridgeback worked his way higher and higher up the side in search of weapons to use against them. He began hurling rocks up at the Alicorns, forcing them to focus on defense instead of attack. Hunter and Spitfire flew towards the scene and hovered above his head.
“It’s over, Ridgeback!” Hunter called down. “Skyfall is done and the Diamond Dogs have run away. It’s just you!”
“I’m all I need!” Ridgeback scornfully shouted.
“I used to think that way!” Hunter gestured to his friends. “But I was wrong, and so are you! Stand down!”
Ridgeback hefted another large boulder. “This only ends when one of us is in the ground! You either take or be taken!” He repeated.
“Your call!” Hunter flew downward as Ridgeback hurled the rock at him. Luna and Celestia took out the stone with their magic, allowing Hunter to continue his rapid decent. Ridgeback hurriedly took up another and pitched it at Hunter; Twilight used her magic to teleport Hunter past the projectile as Cadence used her own to shatter it. Ridgeback staggered as Hunter attacked him with full force, plunging the steel nails of his remaining gauntlet into Ridgeback’s chest. The top heavy creature lost his balance and toppled from the edge on which he stood. With a heavy cry he rolled down the opposite side of the canyon wall, his body rag dolling and shredding as it bounced off of the sharp rocks. When he finally hit bottom he lay half conscious, bones broken and unable to move.
Celestia followed Hunter down and landed before him, staring down at the monster with emotional eyes. “You wrought this on yourself.”
Ridgeback managed to lift his head, blurred vision focusing in on the Princess. “Fuck you.” He gurgled a laugh, blood running from his mouth. “Just finish the job… like a professional.”
“No.” Celestia shook her head. “No matter what I feel, there are lines that I will never cross.” She stared at him with cold eyes. “But I cannot speak for my friend.” She turned from him and began to fly back up the canyon wall.
“Princess Celestia!” Twilight flew down and stopped before her mentor. She looked down at Hunter and the fallen Ridgeback, quickly looking back to Celestia. “Princess?”
“Come Twilight.” She said solemnly. “Our job here is done, let us see to the ponies in need.” She ushered Twilight back towards the others, leaving Hunter with Ridgeback.
Hunter stood over his enemy and looked down at him with remorseless eyes. “For what you and those twisted fucks have done to this world… you deserve worse than death.”
“Cut the bullshit theatrics, kid” Ridgeback scoffed. “Just do your fucking job.” He laughed. “All this…” He let out a pained choke as Hunter’s talon found his throat.
“Mission accomplished.” Hunter stared into Ridgeback’s eyes as the life faded from them. He staggered back and shook the blood from his talon. Knowing he couldn’t rest just yet, he quickly flew around the side of the area to locate his friends. He found them along with the rescued ponies assembled around Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash.
“Hunter!” Sunset ran to him on sight and he hugged her tightly.
“Hey, Sunny.” He smiled at her mere touch.
“Is it over?” She asked.
Hunter looked past her to Celestia. “Yeah, it’s over.” He nodded. Celestia nodded in return and they began escorting the ponies back to Canterlot.
The return trip came with the overwhelming relief that the battles were finally over. Shining Armor and Cadence carried the pair of injured Wonderbolts along their trek and Fluttershy tended to Hunter’s pierced talon. The families of freed ponies reunited and Twilight was more than happy to inform the parents of little Willow that their daughter was safe and waiting for them at the castle. The grateful Equestrians also showered the Princesses with their gratitude; but despite the smile on her face, Hunter could see in Celestia’s eyes that their final encounter weighed on her heavily. For the time being, he left it alone; opting to bask in the knowledge that Equestria was safe and everyone was still alive to see it.
Once back at the castle, Celestia and Luna immediately saw that all of the ponies were given medical examination and treatment. Cadence and Twilight organized a quick, public statement that the danger was over and more information would be given after things had settled. Rarity and Applejack took Willow to an emotional reunion with her parents and Hunter took the time to get his talon properly treated and re-bandaged. As he left the ward, he found Sunset waiting for him; he raised his bandaged talon and wiggled it with a small smile.
“All good now.” He assured. “Still, could use a kiss to make it better.”
“I can handle that.” Sunset pecked his beak with several kisses.
“How’s everything coming along?” He asked.
“Still busy.” She answered. “Everyone is helping out getting those ponies settled for the night. Cadence and Shining Armor are going to take them back to their village tomorrow morning.”
“Good.” He nodded. “They’re still caught up in the euphoria of being freed and reunited, but the aftermath of that hell they went through is going to hit pretty hard.” He shrugged. “I don’t know ponies though, so I can’t say what will or won’t happen in the wake of something like this.”
“None of us can.” Sunset concurred.
“Where’s Celestia?”
“Luna had her take a break for a while.” She informed. “I think she went back to her room.”
“I’ve got to talk to her.” He laid his talon to her shoulder. “I’ll find you later, okay?”
“Yeah.” She kissed him again. “I’ll keep helping Starlight and the others get the rooms ready for the night.”
Hunter headed through the castle, getting directions from the guards to find the Princess. He knocked on her door, receiving a call for entry after a few silent moments. He found her laying on her balcony, looking out at the late day sun which was almost ready to be set on the trying day.
“Hey, Princess.” He slowly walked over. “Mind if I join you?”
“Not at all.” She lightly smiled.
Hunter sighed as he sat beside her. “Just wanted to see how you were holding up. Good? Bad? Better after a few drinks?”
Celestia laughed. “I am… different.” She set her gaze upon him “I am ashamed to admit that I was wholly unprepared to face this threat when it began. Twilight was wise to seek Sunset’s help, and Sunset was just as wise to seek yours. Had we faced those creatures without your council and aid… there would surely be more that would have died.” Her eyes softened. “I am sorry that even at the end, I still had to leave such a deed in your talons. As angry as I was… I simply could not bring myself to strike that terrible beast down.”
“Isn’t that what friendship is about?” He asked. “One being willing to fill in the holes of the other and vice versa?” He put his talon over her hoof. “I made the call in the end. Their blood is on my hands not yours, and I’m okay with that; I can be that for you and the others.”
“A ruler is asked to act in the name of her followers.” She stated. “Not being able to silence a threat so grave would be seen as weakness by many.”
“No, that’s not weakness.” Hunter shook his head. When it comes to stuff like this, strength flows both ways. True, it takes strength to be able to take a life; but it takes just as much strength to not take one, especially when the urge is so strong.” He smiled. “I really do admire you and this world you’ve got going on here. This may just be my own philosophy, but I think that as much as the world needs people like me it also needs people like you; those who advocate for peace above all else and can stay true to their morals in any situation. When people like you and I join forces, we always tend to meet up in the middle where the best possible answer lies; we may not both fully agree with it, but we can both agree that it’s for the best.”
Celestia absorbed his words with an impressed hum. “You are a wise creature, Hunter.”
Hunter laughed shortly. “Only about half the time.” He assured. “But, and I told Sunset something similar, those ponies who went through this are different now too; they’re going to need help as time passes to cope with the experience and guiding them the right way will make sure that their pain doesn’t turn into hate.”
“Agreed.” Celestia nodded. “I will ensure that their lives are rebuilt and that they know my ears and heart will always be open to them.” She looked out over her city. “As awful as this may sound, there is some part of me that respects that this has happened. I have been shown a new kind of malevolence and I promise that should something like this ever happen again, I will be ready to face the challenge.” She looked back to him with confidence.
“And if you ever need me again, you know where to find me.”
“Thank you, Hunter.” She tipped her head graciously.
Everyone slept better that night knowing that the worst was behind them. Come the dawn, Sunset and Hunter said their goodbyes to Cadence and Shining Armor as they set out to see the rescued ponies home. Those that remained were treated to breakfast, prepared by the Princess herself as she enjoyed seeing her dining hall so filled with friends. After breakfast, the Wonderbolts headed back to Cloudsdale while the others made a return trip to Ponyville. The crowd dwindled further as Starlight and Maud said their goodbyes as well, with Starlight walking the Pie sister home. Finally, it was time for Sunset and Hunter to return to their world as well. As they slowed their procession to the portal room in the foyer, Twilight gave Sunset and long hug.
“Thank you, Sunset.” Twilight smiled as she squeezed her.
“I’m glad we could help.” Sunset held her tightly.
“After all we’ve heard about you, it was a pleasure to finally meet you.” Rarity added.
“It’s just a shame you have to go so soon after things have gotten calmer.” Twilight noted as she sat back.
“I know, but I need to let my friends know we’re okay.” Sunset sighed in thought of her piled up homework. “That, and if I’m gone any longer I’m going to wind up in summer school.”
“That’s understandable.” Rainbow Dash hovered over them, her cast swinging like a pendulum. “Not much of a reward for helping to save the world, unless you’re Twi.”
“Ha ha.” Twilight stared up at her sourly.
Hunter stepped over to Luna as the girls said their goodbyes. “Sure you don’t mind taking that armor and necklace back to Mt. Aris?”
“It is no trouble.” Luna assured.
“Thanks.” Hunter nodded. “Give Windshear and High Tide my thanks, and tell them I’m sorry about the missing gauntlet.”
“I shall.” She promised.
“Hunter?” Twilight called over to him.
“Princess.” He walked over to the girls.
“Thank you for all your help.” She held out her hoof. “It’s good to know we’ve got more friends in the human world.”
“It was an honor to fight alongside you all.” He took her hoof firmly.
“I hope you can come back sometime.” She smiled. “When there’s less imminent danger.”
“Next time I get a vacation, I’ll make sure to stop by.” He chuckled as he headed over to Applejack. “Now, I know you’re all going to miss me; especially you.” He began, putting his arm around her as she sighed heavily. “But hopefully the memory of me will stay with you until we meet again.”
“Oh I’m sure it will.” Applejack grinned. “Whether I want it to or not.” She looked over to Sunset. “When y’all get back, tell my other self that she has my sympathies.”
“She’ll be happy to hear.” Sunset giggled.
After a last round of goodbyes to everyone, Celestia and Twilight walked them up to the portal room. “Thank you again.” Celestia said as they neared the mirror. “Equestria owes you much. I know you must leave, but if there is ever anything I can do for either of you, just let me know.”
Hunter stopped at that and turned, a thoughtful smile on his face. “Well, now that you mention it; there is one thing only you could help me with.” The mares looked at each other in bewilderment and what he meant by that.
The final bell rang at Canterlot High and Principal Celestia began to finalize the school day behind her desk. She was taken from her work by a knock on the doorframe and smiled at the sight of the familiar face.
“Hunter.” She immediately stood.
“Hey there, Principal-o-mine.” He met her halfway and gave her a hug. “Since I’m not a student here anymore, I can do this and it isn’t considered creepy.”
Celestia laughed as she embraced him. “Tongue as sharp as ever, I see.”
“I only use it for good now.” He dramatically proclaimed.
“I’m glad to hear.” She folded her arms and leaned against her desk. “What brings you back to Canterlot?”
“Well… let’s call it an extended visit.” He smiled. “But I couldn’t very well call it one without stopping by here.”
“Have things been going well since you moved on?” She asked.
“Definitely.” He nodded slowly. “Everything I learned here the first time has stuck with me and things have been better than they have been in a long time.”
“That’s wonderful.”
“I even managed to find a woman who can stand being around me long enough to be my girlfriend.” He proudly informed. “She’s actually here with me.” He looked back to the door. “Come on in, don’t be shy.” Principal Celestia’s smile faded as her exact double stepped into the room. “This is Tia.” He introduced.
“A pleasure.” Celestia extended her hand to her human counterpart.
“Oh… yes.” Principal Celestia shook herself free of her shock and returned the gesture. “Likewise.”
As Celestia took a step back, Hunter put his arm around her waist and looked up at her with a sly smile. “She and I met after I got settled at my new school.” He fabricated an explanation. “We hit it off pretty quick.” He looked back to Principal Celestia, trying not to laugh at the look on her face. “I don’t what it was, there's just… something about her.”
“I… I see.” Principal Celestia forced a smile. “I’m… very happy for you.”
“She’s definitely helped turn my life around.” Hunter patted her hip. “Ain’t that right?”
“As you have mine, sweetie.” Celestia tilted Hunter’s head up and kissed his cheek.
“I know you’re busy so I’ll get out of your hair.” Hunter said, fighting a snicker. “I’ll be in town for a while though, so hopefully I’ll see you around.”
“Alright.” Principal Celestia nodded, her eyes trying not to stare at her twin. “It was good seeing you again."
“Take care.” Hunter waved as he turned for the door.
“Bye.” Celestia gave her doppelganger a small wave as she followed Hunter out of the office.
Sunset waited by the statue, finally seeing Hunter and Celesita emerge laughing from the school building. She shook her head as they neared, a regretfully amused smile on her face. “You have problems.” She noted.
“Yep.” Hunter took her hand and pulled her into him. “And now they’re all yours.”
“Don’t remind me.” She chuckled, kissing him shortly.
“I should be returning.” Celestia stepped up to Sunset. “I still have a meeting to make.”
“I guess this is goodbye again.” Sunset said wistfully.
“In spite of everything, it was truly wonderful having you back again.” Celestia smiled down at her. “I do hope you will visit more often. I may have taught you much; but after this experience, I am eager to learn more about this world and I can think of no better teacher than you, Sunset.”
Sunset’s eyes perked at the idea. “I’d like that.”
“Then until next time.” Celestia hugged her. “Take care, both of you.”
“I’ll keep her out of trouble.” Hunter grinned, giving her a thumb up.
As Celestia went back through the portal, Sunset turned to Hunter with a thoughtful sigh. “While you were busy traumatizing my principal, I got in touch with the girls to let them know we’re back. They’re on their way now.”
“Awesome.” Hunter slid his arms around her. “Do you want to give them the good news or should we just start making out when they pull up?” He asked wryly.
“Save it for later.” She gave him a concerned smiled. “There is going to be a later, right? Or do you have to leave already?”
“I’ve been thinking about that.” Hunter ran his thumb across her cheek. “I’m going to pull some strings and make Canterlot my new base of operations. They don’t like for us to stay in one spot, but I can make a case for it and I’ve earned enough clout to throw my weight around a little.”
“Really?” Sunset’s smile broadened.
“Yeah.” He nodded. “I can have Lilly at HQ set me up with a driver’s license for the state and create a credit history for me. With that, I can find a place to stay and pick up a car; I’ll have to use an assumed name for the records though.” He paused to think. “How about… Ian Tense.”
Sunset laughed. “Absolutely not.”
“Okay, I’ll think of something.” He chuckled but his face grew serious. “Speaking of which, there is something you should know.”
“What?” She asked.
“Hunter... isn’t my real name, it’s my codename.” He answered.
“Oh.” Sunset was taken aback by the confession.
"Yeah.” He nodded. “If we’re going to be together, then I was thinking maybe you’d want to know my birth name.”
“Uh… yeah.” She laid her hands to his chest. “Of course I would. What is it?”
He smiled with light embarrassment. “It’s... Wilbur.”
“Wilbur?” She repeated with a slightly sour tone.
“I know, it’s lame as hell.” He admitted.
“No… it’s not.” She shook her head. “It’s actually…”
“I’m just fucking with you.” He finally broke down in laughter.
“What!?” Sunset's eyes narrowed. “Damn it, Hunter!” She pounded her fist on his chest.
“Oh my god….” He took her wrist. “Your face… I seriously thought you were going to break up with me when you heard that.”
“I still might.” She warned, ultimately falling into laughter with him.
They turned at the sound of a pair of vehicles, noticing Fluttershy’s car and Applejack’s truck pull up with their friends. Sunset put her arm around Hunter and set her head to his shoulder, waving to them as they got out. She laughed to herself as she saw Pinkie point at them with a bright smile, her friends' faces registering realization of her new relationship status. As they hurried over, Sunset let go of her worries about what might or could happen down the line; at the moment she had her friends as well as Hunter, and that was enough.
