> Power Vessel
>  by Delta-Boio
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> 1 And so it begins...
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


3012
Logan's point of view


Life on the ship was interesting at best. The food was nasty, the robots handing out supplies had a bad attitude and the heaters barely worked. Then again, when your entire planet gets pulverised by the sun and a seventh of the population moves onto one big ass ship what can you do? To be honest I got pretty lucky in the fact that I got my own room. It was small, maybe 9m by 12m with no toilet. Just a twin size bed that I didn't fit in, a wardrobe and a desk and chair. There wasn't a single corner in the entire room either, the ceilings, walls and furniture were all rounded at the edges for god knows why. Everything except the mattress, blanket and pillow was a shiny white colour. It was all made of recently discovered metal called xybrainium. The room was also lined with golden stripes here and there but over all it was a pretty bland room.

Sitting on the overly comfortable bed, I pulled out my MHG to play some music. It stood for 'Morax Hologram Generator'. Morax was the biggest compony in the now non-existent world. The very same company that made the Aurora, the ship that's currently holding me and another 2.3 billion people on it. I was always a fan of the older tech like Iphones and Xbox's but they all got destroyed back on earth. However, I still had my laptop which stored all of my favourite shows and anime. 

After putting on some lofi beats an old friend suggested to me ,may he rest in piece, I decided to wright another song. Before I was transferred to the Aurora I was an up and coming musician. I'd play old songs that were lost through time and wright some in a similar style. I think the reason a was so popular was because I wasn't chained down by the new styles of music and the genres people were releasing nowadays. And so I got the nickname 'The 1000 year old boy'. After playing around with a few ideas I decided to call for one of the bots. It was getting near dinner time and I needed a bit of grub before I started my workout. Hopefully this bot doesn't have a fucking mouth on him like the rest of the bitches.

The moment I took my air pods off I heard an ear piercing alarm sound coming from out side. The thing about the new air pods is that they tap into your brain and play the song directly into your mind. Downside is you couldn't hear an atomic bomb if it landed right next to you. I panicked at first and was completely confused as to what to do. For the two years the ship has been running I've never had this happen. I grabbed my big white backpack from off the floor and started putting in important belongings. Soon I was out the door with my laptop, notebook, flashlight, MHG and confusion in tow. 

I looked down the long metallic hallway of doors to see red lights flashing above every door. The monitors that were spaced by about 20m each were displaying warning signs. Then, something crossed my mind. There wasn't a single person to be seen.....

The unfair truth suddenly dawned on me. There was no way I could no how long those lights could have been on; I also don't have any friends that could come and warn me. I was now in total panic and I think I ran through 100 different ways to get out of the ship. But all of them either left me dead or in a pod by myself were I would starve to death.

Running to the nearest pod dock didn't take long due to my ungodly amount of adrenaline. Every last pod was gone, which told me everyone had lest and were safe......fucking bastards left me. I ran to a nearby window to see hundreds of pods drifting through space. They were quite a few miles away but given how fucking big they are I could see them just fine. Speaking of big, in the far distance seemed to be a fucking star exploding!!! I think my heart could run a marathon a minuet with how fast it was going. I was running through escape plans in my head again and was probably about to pass out until I saw something truly horrifying. 2.3 billion people gone......in less then a second.......the explosion had reached them and had disintegrated every last one of them. I didn't know many of them but my heart still shattered at the news that I might be the only human left in this entire galaxy.......

I didn't have time to mourn their deaths as a plan had finally kicked in. I new it was never gonna work but at this point my body's survival instincts kicked in and I no longer had control. Running, once again, through the pearly white hallways I began to feel my entire body pulsating with adrenalin, blood and the will to live. Reaching the closet lab, (yes this ship was so big it had 72 different labs) I pulled out a massive glass test tube and began using the control panel to fill it with what I needed. It was like those machines were you press a button and a certain drink of your choosing comes out, except now with some of the most dangerous acids and alkalise in known to man. 

I started by pouring in contrancium-oxide. A recently discovered compound with a ph of -6. I then started to pour in some defromancium-trycide. Another recently discovered compound with a ph of 24. Instantly the two started reacting with on another becoming a warzone in a single test tube. This is were my idiotic plan comes into action. Climbing a ladder that leads to the top of the container, I said my priers, opened the hatch, and jumped straight in. I'm not capable of describing the utter pain I was in. Not a single word on gods green earth can describe the agony I felt throughout my body.

The idea was to have the two neutralize each other and form a kind of seal around me. I knew this was survivable anyway, people had done it before. Not sure how they survived but at this point I couldn't give two shits. The chemicals created a kind of shield around me preventing a new chemical reaction, that being a bomb, to take its place unless it is more powerful.......which it one hundred percent was. This was just the first thing that came to mind and my best bet at survival even if the odds of this so called 'survival' were one in a trillion. 

About five seconds later I passed out from the pain. My last thought being how fucking stupid I am. 


Space?
Logan's point of view


Waking up from my refreshing nap I found myself in a pitch black void with nothing to be seen for miles. Is this death?
Like, have I ascended or some bullshit. I then remembered what had transpired as the memories flooded into my brain.
This was death, surely I'm dead. Unless I was that one in a trillion but that's just almost impossible. Suddenly, a sharp pain like no other crept from legs to my head until my entire body was once again in unholy agony. 

(Author note: Ima try and describe this one but its not for the faint hearted. Skip to were it ends if you have a week stomach)

It was like my entire body was being pierced but needles over and over again. The skin on my body was pealed off and replaced 10 times a second. My teeth yanked out and put back in place at speeds unknown to man. Eyelids ripped off and eyes being glazed with ice then burnt to a crisp. The worst part about the hole thing was that I was regenerating, but right now that's not the biggest thing on my mind. My arms and legs started to twist and turn in unnatural positions and my bones melted and reformed. Every organ in my body would pop like a balloon and then regrow. But worst of all, my no-no area was being cut off over and over and over again. to sum it all up it was rather un pleasant

(End of description. Hope you enjoyed you sadistic fucks)

After what felt like hours of pain and suffering but was probably minutes, I heard a soft voice speak in a thousand different voices. "You poor soul," it started, "seems like I messed up my calculations."

I tried to speak but found that I was no longer in my body, I was just a consciousness floating in this dark abyss. I turned my non-existent head around to find that my body was now about 10 meters to left of me. After one looked at the mangled mess I instantly turned around. I'd like to think I have a strong stomach but if I did have a stomach right now I probably would have just emptied it.

The voices spoke again, "Apologies for wiping out your entire race," apology unaccepted, " it seems I blew up the wrong star....." it trailed off, "Oh where are my manners, I'm your galaxy's guardian, Frociesta."

Now I was even more confused, I had hundreds of questions but no way to ask them. What does it mean by guardian?

It cut my train of thought with something that scared the hit out of me. "I'm not an 'it' I'm a 'she' thanks you very much! And as for your questions, I'm not obliged to answer them." Ok, now this is were I draw the line. This is way to much weird shit for one day and at this point I don't even are if I die. She cleared her throat, "Now then, as an apology for wiping out the very existence of your kind I'm gonna do you a favour and send you to a new world with some of the abilities you've dreamt of having; sound good?" Before I even thought of an answer, "Good."

In an instant, my consciousness was flung towards a bright white light in the distance a mindboggling speeds. As the light got closer I didn't have time to question what the fuck just happened. And before I knew it, I was consumed by the holiness in front of me and fell unconscious. Wtf...........


Fuck knows where
Logan's point of view


Waking up from another nice refreshing nap I found myself in some king of forest. I was just lying face up on the ground watching the canopies. My excitement was almost uncontrollable. It had been two long years since I had been in a forest of this magnitude. Sure we had fake forests for oxygen on the ship but nothing beats the real thing. I took in the wonderful view of animals running around trees without a care in the world. Sound of the birds chirping as they flew above me was the best sound I had ever heard. A dream come true. God how I missed this........

After snapping out of my stupor all the memories of what had happened flooded into my head once again. My fun time was over as I started relaying what had happened in my head. What the fuck did she mean by 'my galaxy's guardian'? What new world did she send me too? Was I back on earth? What 'powers' was she on about? This Frociesta woman, Is she a God?

I took a step to start pacing only to step on something. I looked down to pick up the book only to realise I was butt naked......and buff........and had white hair on my no-no region.......

I instantly had a new thought on the forefront of my mind. I left the book and made my way to a nearby lake. What I half scared half exited me. I was a real life version of Ban.




(Not some kind of commission just found it online)

I always wanted t look like Ban. I'm not gay but man did I think he was hot. Was this what Frociesta meant when she said she'd give me certain powers and abilities? This is amazing! I look so sexy!

After fangirling over my new appearance I went back to the book thingy on the floor. I say book but with a grain of salt. Picking it up I found it had a leather cover with nothing written on either side. I flipped to the first page and it was a light green; like a pastel colour. Like the cover, it was also empty apart from a title at the top. The ink used to wright it was black and looked old and warn out. It read 'Bending'. As I read the words in my head a large sum of information filled my brain as if I had read an entire book. 

As if I had been training for years, I had all the knowledge to know how to bend materials like the avatar. For a moment I was absolutely dumbfounded, but then I remembered her words. This was one of my abilities..........fucking awesome. Come to think of it I can't remember the amount of times I tried bending water into my mouth a a kid. I now understood what she meant. But how the hell can one being be powerful enough to create a whole planet and generate a new vessel for me with all these powers. Frociesta is truly a God.

Testing out my new abilities I decided to make chair for me to sit on with my earth bending. Instantly, a chair rose from behind me. Not so comfortable but I didn't really care seeming as though nature now bends at m fucking will! This has unlimited uses. After playing around with my earth bending and making random sculptures of video game characters, I reverted the surrounding area to how it was before and walked over to the previously mentioned lake.

After a few deep breaths, I began making a water python rise out of the water; and then I thought fuck it and made four more. Each was about the size of a hydra head and if it weren't for the fact you could see through them pretty well you'd probably mistake it for one.

Speaking of seeing through it, I thought I saw the outline of a person through the middle hydra head. I instantly dropped the water making a loud splash (that would have drenched me if I didn't bend the water away from me like a fucking mad lad). After the water had dropped I saw a girl standing on the other side of the lake with a look of pure terror on her face. She had long pink hair which was odd but not unwelcome, a yellow sweater over a basic white shirt and blue jeans. She seemed to relax a little when the hydra disappeared but then went red like a tomato before running of into the distance. Confused for a moment, I thought about her peculiar actions before realising I was 1,Super hot, and 2, completely naked. 

After using my earth bending to make myself a pair of very uncomfortable pants and then grabbing the book off the floor were I left it with my air bending, I created a ball of spinning air and jumped on top to chase after her. I needed answers and she just might have them. After rolling for a while I was now about 100 meters away from her. Reason she was so far ahead because she was riding on a manticore looking motherfucker! 

At that point I realized where the fuck I was and instantly stop my pursuit. Why the bloody fuck am I in Equistria!!!!! I watched one fucking episode!!!!!! "Frociesta you bitch!!!!!" I just got fucking trolled by a God.

Back on earth I stumbled across a show whilst looking through really old tv programs. Mlp was the first one I found. Being bored as fuck at the time I decided to put on the first episode. It was ok but I know nothing about it. I don't even remember their names God damn it! As much as I'm grateful for these new found powers and a second chance at life why the did I have to live it out hear of all places.

After just standing there and thinking about how annoying this was I decided I should probably get some rest. I wasn't in the best condition and I needed the energy. Going though untold amounts of pain twice and then being thrown into a new dimension does that to you. Creating a pillar to take me up to the top of the a tree up to a big branch wasn't difficult. I then got comfortable against the tree and let sleep take me.

Waking up I felt refreshed and had all of my energy back. It was a dreamless sleep which certainly wasn't unwelcome. Standing up with the book in hand, I looked down the tree to find that I about 25ft in the air give or take. Before falling asleep I had an epiphany, and what better time to test it than the present. Jumping off the tree and straight onto the ground left decent sized crater in my wake. My theory was correct, I don't just look like Ban.......I am Ban. To further test my theory I decided to make a beeline straight for where I first woke up. As I got in a running position I could feel the earth bellow me crumble as I made two small craters under my shoes. I took off and before I knew it I was back at the lake. I must have been close to lightspeed, which was a lot faster than Ban. Frociesta must have tweaked a few things that she couldn't find in my memories. after all, you never get to see Ban at his fastest.

I'm too surprised by these new revelations, but It's still pretty sick. After running around and jumping through trees for a good ten minutes I had another great realization. Jumping down the tree I was currently stood on, I made my way over to the lake. With a wave of my hand a small stream of water was now floating in front of me. I moulded the water into a basic dagger shape. Turning it to ice, I grabbed it and slowly used it to pierce my palm open. Compared to my little encounter with the guardian, I barley felt it. After removing the blade from my palm I et it return to the water, and sure enough after a moment of waiting my palm completely fine!!! Fuck yeah, I'm Immortal!!!

Then, as if it was Christmas, I had another epiphany. I quickly grabbed the book from the floor, where I left it, and flipped to the second page. To my disappointment, both pages were completely empty. Odd. There's like 100 pages and only one of them has anything to say. Maybe ol' Froci did an oops. Meh, bending is more than what I bargained for.

After a bit more pissing around and getting used to my speed I thought it be best to head off to Ponyville. Rather than showing up there at lightspeed and giving the people a start I decided I'd walk there. I assume it's in the direction that girl went? I had nothing else to do and its not like I could really test my strength now being that there's probably a hole village full of people at my doorstep. 

The walk there was pleasant, I've always been one for nature and the forests in this world are filled with vibrant flowers of any colour you can possibly think of. All of the animals lived in peace, well most of them. I had to put a few attacking manticore down hear and there. Not one for killing innocent animals. I took the time it took to walk to go through everything over in my head. I knew that in this world the dominant race should be pony's, but that was proved wrong when I saw that girl. God what was her name! 

Finally out of the forest, I found my self in a clearing with a stone bridge about 100m ahead of me. Walking closer and over a hill leading up to it, I could now see what I can only assume to be Ponyville. Paying closer attention attention to the bridge, I saw that it was completely made of stone.  It wasn't too long, maybe 20 meters and could probably carry two horses side by side. It went over a long river. Shallow but still there. Out of nowhere, a man ran to the other side of the bridge. He was a soldier and appeared to be wearing spartan style armour. However, it was lined with ocean blue rather than red. I thought it was a pretty big improvement, never to keen on the colour red. He was around 6ft, so just shorter than me, and was a scruffy beard. He looked mid 30s at best but who am I judge.

Still staring at me, he started barking out orders to four other guards that were patrolling the area, "WE FOUND 'IM BOYS! FORMATION C, SURROUND THE TARGET."

I let them do as the pleased until they were in a pentagon formation surrounding me. The four he had just called over were waring similar attire to the first. The only difference was the lack of a helmet. Kind of stupid if you ask me but then again no one asked.

I decided violence wouldn't be the best course of action here. I needed to come off as unthreatening so I have a chance of even living out my life. It would be pretty shit to get reborn only to be locked up in a dungeon for life, and in my case.......for the rest of time. Therefor I took a calm and collected approach. Unthreateningly, I spoke. "May I ask why you are surrounding me?" That was the first time a single atom of my being had moved since the squad captain saw me.

The captain spoke in his crusty voice, "We have reason to believe you to be very dangerous, and so you shall be coming with us!" With those last words they all raised there spears in unison.

At this point I couldn't give two shits, it was way too early for this crap. Sighing, I spoke, "Very well."

All the guards cocked a brow at this. One of the four reinforcements spoke up. "Really? Like, no resistance."

"Well," I started," the way I see it, your just doing your job. You haven't given me a reason to resist, ergo, I'm not resisting." Honestly, if a person of authority tells you to do something. You fucking do it. Its all part of the system.

The same guard as before spoke again, "Oh, Well......" He stopped and studied me for a moment, "your cooperation is much obliged."

After our little interaction a chariot came down from the sky being pulled along by winged fucking horses! I already prepared myself for some of the shit I'd be seeing but there still epic all the same! Getting into the chariot I began to look at it in more detail. It was your classic Cinderella style chariot with a white pearly outside that was lined with gold. Sort of reminded of Aurora. The inside was the same but with seats cushioned with velvet coloured cloth that looked straight out of heaven. It looked like it seated around 8 people. 10 at a push.

One guard went in and then I followed suit with another right behind me. I was in the middle of two guards with the other three directly across from us. The two seats closest to the door were both empty. After about five minutes of just sitting there the guards seemed to relax. I think they realized by now that I was completely civil and that I wouldn't try anything. All the windows were closed so I didn't have the luxury of knowing where we were even headed. Another 10 minutes later the guard sitting diagonally left from me pulled out a spare change of clothes from his bag and offered them to me. I thanked him and gladly took them. I then went over to the two unoccupied seats to get changed. After sitting back down, I started to really appreciate how comfortable peasant clothes were. They were breezy but incredibly easy to move in. I might just start wearing these things as the usual!

Another 30 minutes had past before we finally landed. There was quite a bit of small talk between the guards and we even had a laugh about how difficult it is to approach a woman. Once the door we entered through opened I took in the incredible view. We appeared to be in some kind of courtyard with some plants I had never seen before. Some even towered over the chariot. Exiting the chariot I found that we were on a cliffside. Walking a bit closer to the edge, I looked over to see that the mountain loomed over Ponyville by hundreds of feet. I felt a hand on my now not-so naked shoulder and turned to see the captain looking down in the same direction as me. 

"Welcome to Canterlot errrrrr....," he paused, "Huh, I never got your name"

It then occurred to me that not a single person on this entire planet knows my name. Meaning I could change it to whatever I wanted. I never really liked my name, there were a lot of shitty people named Logan. Deciding to change my name, I quickly thought of an answer to his question. I chose "Phoenix, Phoenix Elvenkind."

"Well Phoenix, you have some Princesses to meat so lets be off." That instantly put me on alert, what did he mean by princesses? Did they still have royalty? Huh, I suppose it's that sought of era I guess. "Follow me."

We made our way inside a big ass palace! You could search all of earth and never find something like this. It was incredible, it was completely made of stone with torches lighting the corridors. Purple banners and sofas both lined with gold were everywhere. Looking up, the hallway was a good 30ft tall with a large golden chandelier every ten meters or so. Now this was absolutely mindboggling. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd ever get the chance to see something as marvellous as this. 

We stopped at two huge double doors that reached the ceiling. It was also completely stone but more of a marble colour. Following suit, it was lined with gold. One of the guards then patted me on the back and slightly nudged me towards the unnecessarily tall door. "Go on, they don't bite." Ok, now I was scared. Who was 'they'?

The two people guarding the door opened it to reveal the most magnificent throne room. 




(You all know it. You all love it!)

Looking to the front of the throne room I linked eyes with who I can only assume to be Celestia. She was wearing a stunning white dress that shone in the light. It wrapped her slim figure in a hug, defining her features. She had pink, blue and teal hair that looked unnatural but still gorgeous. I then took a look at the woman sitting on the throne to her left. I didn't recognise her in the slightest. She was also wearing a slim fit dress. She appeared to be a bit shorter but still just as enticing as Celestia. Her hair looked like the galaxy itself with endless stars that could leave anyone mesmerized. I know I was. 

Taking a rather professional stance with my hands behind my back and my back straight, I waited for what they had to say. Two of the guards that escorted me hear took places next to me for legal reasons. I'm pretty sure they both realized I wasn't going to try anything funny. It was the captain and the guy that lent me the clothes. Turning my  head slightly to the right, I locked eyes with the squad leader as he winked at me. Turning back to the apparent princesses, they were cocking a brow at the captain. He then spoke. "With all due respect princesses, I no longer feel we are needed hear. He has given us the upmost respect and has followed our requests to a T. And plus, if he did try anything, we'd be of little assistance." This confused me. Had he seen what I could do?

My thought process was cut short by a woman's voice. Turning back from the captain to the princesses, Celestia spoke. "Very well, I trust your judgement. Back to your posts then." The two men went to leave but not before they both put  hand on my shoulder. Turning to one and then the other I saw that they were both smiling. The guard that gave me my clothes leaned in and whispered in my ear. "You're in safe hands, no more living in the wilderness. They'll take care of you." And with that, they were off. Turning, once again, to the two woman, I heard the door close behind me. 

Here we go........
> 2 New digs...and power
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Canterlot Castle

Logan's point of view 


Looking directly into my eyes, Celestia spoke. "Tell me, what is your name?" No fucking around I see

Using the same manor I did with the guards, "I go by Phoenix Elvenkind"

Then, the one with the mesmerizing hair spoke, "What were you doing in the Everfree?"

I suppose you could call it training, but they really don't need to know that, "I was lost, and so I got bored and started playing around." Fuck! That was a terrible excuse!

She spoke again, "Understandable," What? "It is easy to get lost in the Everfree." she said as she bopped her head up and down. They seriously fell for that?

Celestia chimed in, "What I want to know is why you blatantly threatened an innocent woman with a hydra." She raised her tone a bit but still wasn't shouting. However the look on her face told me that wouldn't last long.

If she was going to interrogate me for something I didn't do than I was going to have fun with it. "With all due resect, no matter what I say here you've already made up your opinion on me, and its not like there's any real proof that I didn't do it. But then again, there isn't any proof that I did. So it comes down to whether you're going to believe your own citizen," raising my left hand in a cupping gesture," or some half naked guy you found running around in a forest." Doing the same with my right hand, "So what's it to be?"

They both stayed sat there with now wide eyes and shocked looks on their faces as if I had beaten them at a game of chess in a single move; which I essentially just did. Finally, the shorter one spoke up, "I have to say you handled yourself quite well there." I've been in that spot too many times to count, being a musician your practically expected to do drugs. "I suppose you do have a point. Right sister?" So they're sisters.

"Yes I suppose he does"

Speaking up, "So, what are you going to do now?" I asked in an almost challenging way, but with enough pizazz so that they knew I was joking. If its one or two people then I don't mind fucking around. But I get a bit flustered around big groups.

My statement made the, judging by the big ass picture behind her, moon princess giggle and Celestia smile a bit. The sun princess answered, "I see you have out played us, we ask you give us your address so we can keep an I on you. Wouldn't want to be to careless."

Slightly cutting in before she could continue, "Slight problem with that."

She cocked a brow, "Oh, and that being?"

"I'm not exactly, per say, from around here." Trying to think of how to put this lightly, I ended up giving up on that. "So yeah, I'm homeless."

The moment those last words left my house the two princesses gasped and looked at each other as if I had committed some kind of sin. And before I new it, with a pop and slight belly ache, we were in Ponyville. Holy shit was I not prepared for that. I knew teleportation was a thing before hand but God that felt horrible, sure hope I get used to that. Slightly curled up clenching my stomach, "Warn me next time." Ignoring the statement, we landed in a spot just outside of the Everfree borders. The two princesses walked up to a rather decent sized pot of land, raising both their hands and igniting them both in what I can only assume to be magic. After about three seconds of this a rather large house suddenly appeared in front of us. It was similar to a cottage but a bit bigger. Before I could continue assessing it, Celestia came up behind me and pushed me towards the house as her sister opened the door for me. Now inside the cottage, I had so many questions. But the main one, "What the fuck....." 

Both the princesses walked in without saying a word and began placing furniture around. I just stood there waiting for them to finish so I could get an explanation. 

As you walked in, the first floor was mostly open with a lounging area to my left and just to my right, were the carpet turned to marble tiles, a kitchen. With a large counter in the middle for people to sit around. The furniture and design were what you would expect In a cabin In the woods, except the kitchen. The kitchen was almost completely marble coloured. Even the top of the seating stalls were white leather. 

Turning back to my left, the large brown sofas were the first thing to grab my attention. The two big ones, one to my immediate left and one only a meter away from the kitchen, could probably fit six people each. They were leather but still looked rather cosy and comfortable. Then there was another single sofa in the far left corner of the room. It was a similar design but looked like it had a lever to pull up the front of the chair as a leg rest. To the left of that and in the middle of the far lounging room wall was a nice little fireplace that really set the mood. The place had working lights which was weird because the palace was lit by torches, but I'm definitely not complaining.

The sisters were finally done and had just come back down the stairs that I didn't see them leave through. "As cool as this place is. Why the fuck am I here right now?"

They both looked rather displeased by my choice of words, but then put on a more confused face. Celestia questioned me, "What do you mean? I think It's rather obvious why you are here is it not?"

The moon princesses answered my original question. "This is your new home." That really confused me. However, it did explain why they were so shocked to find out I was homeless. Here, it's probably really rare considering it's all fun and rainbows. I mean, I'm not complaining but seeming as though they just gave me the house for free, anyone could really abuse their kindness. Unless........

"Oh, thanks. How much do I owe you." Thought I'd check just encase.

Celestia began walking towards me as she spoke, "Oh that wont be necessary, we have a different proposal." When she was only a couple feet in front of me, she put her hands on my shoulders in a very condescending manor. Instantly, I swiped both her hands away and backed up against the door I entered from.

After realizing what I had done, I spoke. "Apologies, I'm not a huge fan of being touched. Especially by people I don't know." It was true, I hated physical interaction. It just felt weird and unnecessary to me.

They both seemed a bit taken aback by what I had just said. The shorter one chimed in, "You mean to tell us you don't know who we are?" Well they are princesses, must be weird having someone that's not heard of them.

"I'm aware that you two are both princesses, but that is as far as my knowledge on you two extends." Well, and a few other things but they don't need to know that.

"Well then," the sun princess began, "some introductions are in order." She said that with a large grin and then clapped her hands together twice in a playful manner. Again, fun and rainbows. Putting her hand out to me, she began, "I am Princess Celestia of Equistria." She stood waiting for me to return the gesture she offered but I decided to wait until she figured it out. I literally said it less than a two minutes ago. Widening her eyes in realization, she put her hand back down and began looking at the floor with a small blush. 

"It's a pleasure." Hearing a someone clear their throat, I turned to look at the princess of the moon.

"And I am Princess Luna," makes sense considering, a lovely name all the same, "of Equistria. However I rule under my sister, being the younger of the two.

Deciding to be a flatterer soon as no one was watching, "When you look as young as 20 age isn't of much concern." That got Celestia to blush even harder and got a cute giggle out of Luna. Before I got told off for chatting up royalty I decided to change the subject. "Sooo, about this proposal?

That instantly got Celestia to fling her head back up to look at me. Trying to be more professional, she spoke. "Ah yes, our sources have told us you are quite powerful and use strange magic......" She trailed off, "The very town your in is constantly under attack by things we like to call 'fangs'. Have you heard of them?"

Getting some 'Seraph of the end' vibes over hear. "I can't say I have."

Luna continued for her, "In short, they are creatures that appear to be human's. But in actuality, they are monsters that feed off of human flesh to gain nutrients."

"I see." This didn't sit well with me. Frociesta must have taken some ideas from the less child friendly anime as well. The two sisters looked a bit taken aback by how nonchalantly I took the news, "To be honest, I don't have much combat experience but I'll see what I can do. We have a deal?"

Both princesses sighed heavily as if a huge weight had been lifted off of them. Smiling, Luna answered, "You have a deal. You have no idea how much of a help you've been. Well......will be anyway."

"Good to hear it," I said, walking past the two and over to the kitchen. "now if you don't need me for anything else I think I'm gonna grab something to eat and scout the village to see how much land were dealing with here."

Celestia spoke up, "We appreciate you getting straight to it, and no we do not require anything else."

Turning around and pulling a peace sign, I responded. "I guess I'll see your around then."

"Indeed you will." Celestia replied, before they both left. 

Quickly, Luna poked her head around the door and said, "Oh and also, you've been given the title of Baron and now own Ponyville."

Completely dumbfounded by what she just said I went to respond but was cut off. "Wait wha-" 

"Toodals"

With that she was gone. Man, as much as I love a playful woman she's got to explain this shit to me. What the fuck was a Baron, and what does that have to do with me suddenly owning a whole fucking village!? Deciding to read up on it later, I prepared a sandwich from the food that was already in my house and practically inhaled it. This was the first time I had eaten since the Aurora went kablooie. I'm immortal and all but hunger's still a bitch.

Once I was done eating I contemplated on whether or not I wanted to explore upstairs or just do it when I go up to bed. Deciding to leave it as a surprise, I walked out the front door and took a deep breath. The morning air was wonderful, it was also rather sunny, today was looking to be a good day. 

After a quick sprint around every nook and cranny of the village, and when I mean quick I mean 3 seconds, I decided to take a stroll around it as well just to get a good feel for the area. Walking past many shops and houses, the people didn't exactly give me the nicest looks. Then again, I was wearing what were practically rags that were so damn comfortable! I only got about a tenth though the route around the town that I was taking before I was stopped by a rather glamorous looking woman. 

I suddenly heard a large gasp from around 30 meters behind me, along with a thud on the ground. I turned around to see a woman standing there, she had just come out of a shop and had dropped all of the groceries she was holding. With both her hands on her mouth, we locked eyes for a moment before she began rushing towards me. Circling me, she began muttering random insults about my clothes under her breath. "Oh what horrible, horrible attire. Who on Equis would make someone wear such a thing?" After she was done mocking me she reached out from behind me and went to grab the back of my shirt. Instantly, I was facing her with a frown as I used my blood bending to stop her hand from coming any closer. Realizing that that technique was supposed to be rather painful, I let her go but continued to frown at her. I didn't feel the need to apologies soon as she went to grab me without permission.

Looking down at her as she was about a foot shorter than me, I spoke "Believe it best to ask before randomly grabbing someone."

Looking up at me in shock and fear, she managed to stammer out, "I-I apologise s-sir"

I looked down at her eyes one last time and then began to take my leave. Was I a bit harsh? Yes. Was she wrong to try and grab me? Also yes. I only got another 10 feet before I heard another voice, "Hey! Who do you think you are mister?" I sensed her raising her hand to tap me on the shoulder. I'm not sure how I knew she was, I just knew. However, I also somehow knew that she wasn't on the ground. This confused me for a sec and then I realized that she was probably just a Pegasus. Going for the less painful route now that I know someone's going to grab me rather than just using my reflexes, I activated fox hunt and took all the power from the arm she was going to use to grab me. Now finally turning around, I saw that the woman had rainbow coloured hair and was wearing a blue tank top and black sports shorts. On her lower back sprouted two blue wings. They weren't attached to her back and weren't like normal bird wings. They were translucent and rather small. Very pretty to look at though. 

She fell to the ground and her wings disappeared. She looked to the now powerless arm and grabbed it, she then lifted her head back up to me with a look of pure horror on her face. I decided to play nice and give her her arm back. When she realized this she began moving it around and wiggling her fingers about. She looked up at me once again and took two steps back. Still with the same look on her face, she spoke. "W-What d-did you do?"

I ignored her question and spoke in a cold tone, "Can I help you." 

I could tell she was trying to be strong but it was failing, "W-Why'd you hurt Rarity, sh-she didn't do anything to you."

So she was sticking up for her friend. Huh, I think I instantly assumed her to be some idiot but maybe I was wrong. At least she's loyal I guess. Deciding to cool my jets, I stopped with the death glare and cold tone and spoke in a more natural tone. "Rarity being the woman behind you?"

"Y-Yeah, she was just tryna get you some new clothes."

Now a bit of it was coming back to me. This must be Rainbow Dash and Rarity. "I see, I was unaware." Turning to Rarity, I bowed slightly and spoke, " Apologies," That felt weird to say in Ban's body, "I am not a fan of being touched, I overreacted a little and I am sorry. My point still stands though, don't go around grabbing people without permission."

Both the girls looked a bit more relaxed now. "It is quite alright," Rarity began, bowing slightly, "It was wrong of me to attempt to grab you."

"No apologies needed. I'm sure most people don't have a problem with physical contact, you just so happened to come across a guy who does."

Rainbow Dash suddenly butted in. "Don't you apologies to him! He's clearly in the wrong!" Figuring that in the future I may have to deal with these two daily soon as were all protectors of Ponyville -and not to mention my subjects now- I made an effort to start off on a good note. 

Turning back to Rainbow Dash, I apologised to her as well. "And apologies to you too," She looked surprised at that, "I'm on orders from the princesses so I'm rather focused. I hope you'll eventually forgive me, but I must be off." Truthfully I had all the time in the world but this was too much social interaction for one day. 

Huffing a bit, rainbow head replied. "I guess I can forgive you."

Turning to Rarity she nodded, which was all the confirmation I needed. Then she spoke, "If you have the time, come to my boutique later so we can sort out those dreadful cloths of yours, it's the one with the dresses in the window, you can't miss it." After she finished I think she realized what she had said. Now looking down and blushing slightly, she apologised again. "Apologies." That got a small laugh out me.

"Don't worry about it." With that, I began to take my leave before Rainbow called out to me again. 

"Hey! You never gave us your name!"

Deciding to fuck with her, I responded, "Indeed I didn't." Running around a corner before she could respond, I continued my way around the town. Up close it was rather unique and very wholesome. I decided there and then that I'd do my damndest to keep it that way. I only got through another 40% of the route before I was interrupted once again. 

Suddenly, pink filled my entire vision without me sensing a thing. I readied to fight before realising that it was not a monster that popped up in front of me, it was in fact a person. Taking a few steps back I saw that it was a small girl, but probably an adult in this world, with puffy pink hair. She was wearing a massive pink hoodie that didn't fit her along with some denim short shorts and pink and black striped leggings. She was rather cute. What was alarming though was that when she showed up she was at eye level with me, but it appears she's also around a foot shorter than me. Putting two and two together I realized this must be Pinkie Pie.

"Hi! I'm Pinkie!" She practically screamed, "You're new here, we should throw a party for you!!" With the raise of both of her hands from that statement, confetti began to rain down onto my head. Looking up unintrigued, I found nothing there. I don't know much about mlp but I do know that Pinkie supposedly makes no fuckin sense. I'm beginning to see that.

"That won't be necessary." After my blunt remark I began to walk off. I was stopped when she ran in front of me waving her arms like an idiot. 

"Hold up! You never even told me your name..... or where you live or your birthday or your age or you favourite colour or your......." She began listing things that had no relevance. I tuned her out until she was done just in case there was an actual point she wanted to relay. But nope. "And that's why we have got to throw you a party!!!" Looking at her again for a moment, I began walking past her again. I then heard from behind me, "Hey! Were do you think your going!" I had a plan to get her to leave me alone. Do absolutely nothing.

I spent the next 15 minutes or so walking around with a little pink creature behind me asking every question under the sun. After realising this wasn't going to work and that she had the will power of a warrior, I decided to just sprint home. Meaning she's somewhere in Ponyville probably feeling really confused.  Heading upstairs, there was an office, two bedrooms and a toilet. Going into the bigger bedroom of the two I saw a small toilet in there as well. Deciding to make that my room, I grabbed a quick shower, threw on my rags and decided to chill for a bit. Lying in bed, I processed what had happened through the last few days. I went over a few topics such as what other powers do I have, how difficult are the fangs going to be and whether or not I'd need to actually start training. I came to the conclusion that training would be a good option no matter how strong they are. Plus, I know there are some rather powerful magic users in this world so I can never be to careful. Always handy to have the extra edge in combat.

Realizing a few hours had past, I decided to head off to Rarity's. She never actually told me were it was except the it had dresses in the window, but thankfully, I already know where that is. Grabbing an apple from the kitchen, I stepped out the door.

I decided to walk there as to not start to rely on my powers. Thankfully, there were no interruptions seeming as though most people saw my interaction with Rainbow and Rarity. It wasn't a long walk and I quite enjoyed it, having insane amounts of stamina means I get the incredibleness that is walking and breathing in the pure air minus the achy legs part. 

Finally arriving at the boutique, I opened the door and triggered the little bell on the inside. I soon heard someone running down the stairs. As they came into view I saw she was wearing a beautiful white dress with purple cuffs and bottom. It really complemented her hair as well, it seemed she managed to get the exact same colour. As she finally reached the bottom of the stairs, she spoke. "Oh, hello my darling! Glad you came."

A bit annoyed, "Darling?"

She replied with, "Oh just accept and embrace. Now, strip down for me." Assuming she didn't mean the other kind of strip, I walked over to the middle of the room and began to take off my shirt. I was about to take my trousers off when the thought hit me, I'm naked under these. I paused for a sec, turning to Rarity she gave me an impatient look, "Well go on then what are you waiting for."

Replying rather slowly, "Errr Rarity, I kinda didn't have any clothes before the guard lent me some." I didn't really want to say it out loud so I tried to drop some things for her to pick up.

"Oh, I see." Ok, she gets it, "That must have been very difficult for you. No worries, I can make you all the clothes you want now!" Never mind then. 

In a rather 'put the pieces together' tone, I replied. "I wasn't exactly wearing anything else before then......"

She instantly replied, "Yes you said, but now I can.........." She stopped suddenly. I think it clicked. "Oh, ohhhh." Slightly red in the cheeks now and looking away from me, "Now I see your concerns. However, I’m pretty good at that without looking.” She said with a small blush. 

"I went to pull down the rest of my rags but not before adding,  "Just please try to avoid looking at it whilst you take my measurements. I suppose I can let you touch me this time soon as you kind of have to but could you please keep the touching to a minimum?" By the time I had finished the sentence my trousers were off.

She gave me a confused look, "Whatever do you mean? I'm already done." That confused the fuck out of me. I then remembered magic exists, thank god for small miracles I guess. I need to get used to all this magic bullcrap. Maybe I'll hit the library tomorrow morning. Then again, I was planning to go check out that apple farm. Sweet apple acres I think it's called. Fuck it, maybe I'll do both.. It's not like I have any other plans and the princesses did a good job of not telling me shit.

"Apologies, from were I'm from we do it by hand." Oh how that one statement fucked me over. Looking down to pull my pants back up and then looking back up again, I saw what could only be described as pure interest.

Before I could question why she was giving that look she began to throw question after question at me. "Where are you from!? What kind of styles do they wear!? What do they make their clothes out of!?" Before she could continue, I focused fox hunt on her vocal box. Damn having full control of Ban's powers is useful. She began to look really scared. She probably thought she'd literally broken her voice by talking too much. Giving her her power back she began to make random sounds, as if testing out whether it still worked or not. She then looked up at me, "Did you do that?"

"You wouldn't stop talking and I'm not one for shouting." 

She blushed a bit before responding, "Apologies, I do that sometimes. But did you really have to do that?" Shrugging probably wasn't the best answer but woopdy doo. Giving me a deadpanned look, she spoke again. "Just raise you hand next time or something."

"K"

"But in all seriousness. Where are you from?" I wasn't sure how to answer that. I could lie and tell her that I was an equestrian, just raised somewhere else. Or I could tell her the truth, or.......

"Hah, wouldn't you like to know" Dodge the question.

With a slight huff and an adorable pout, "Fine then, keep your secrets." Turning to the clock on her wall and then back to me she spoke once more, "We're all done here. Apologies, I would invite you for a cup of tea but I have plans for tonight." It was now about 7 o'clock. (English time) "I just need your colour preference and then I'll be all set."

"What about what style I want?" I asked.

She looked at me with a cocked brow, "What do you mean? I'm going to make loads of styles and then you pick the ones you want." Well that was a waste of material. Oh wait no, magic. They can probably use it to make a fucking pencil or something.

"I see. Again, different culture." She then had an understanding look on her face. I then remembered, "Purple, green and black." Thought I'd mix things up a bit.

She looked at me slightly confused, "Are you sure? That's quite the odd pallet."

"I'm sure" I responded with.

"Very well. I shall try my best but I will probably have to make some sets of clothes based on one or two colours as it may be difficult to integrate all three. Is this acceptable?"

Being the smooth and definitely not self conscious guy I am, I responded with, "Hey, your the professional."

After a quick goodbye I took my leave. She informed me that the clothes would come in a big tub outside my house one of these days, and to keep an eye out for it. With that info in mind, I decided I would walk around bare feet, like Toph from 'Avatar the last air bender', for the next couple of days so I would know when the parcel was dropped outside my house. It's not like I'm going to go anywhere too far away for me to feel it any time soon. 

Reaching my house, I walked up the stairs and into my bedroom. I figured I'd get some sleep in so I could wake up early and get some things done. Before I could get into bed, I heard a strange noise coming from down stairs. It was hard to describe, maybe as if something was being written down on paper really fast with a weird humming noise in the back round. I went downstairs to investigate. Reaching the bottom of the stairs, I turned to my left to see the book on the kitchen counter (where I had previously left it) opened with an odd purple glow around it. Then suddenly, the glowing and noises stopped as the book slammed back shut with a small thud. I was very intrigued now and had a feeling I knew what it was that had just happened. Walking over too the kitchen, I reached the counter and looked down at the leather book. Slowly, I opened it to reveal the first page along with the inside of the cover next to it. I then reached for the page and turned it. Both pages were empty except the new title that appeared on the second page of the book. 

It read 'Spirit Spear Chastiful'. The same thing happened as last time with years of training and information flooding into my mind. I nearly squealed in excitement as I read those words. After all the info had been placed in my mind, a spear suddenly appeared to my right. I turned to see the long silver spear in all it's glory. The tip looked just as sharp as you would expect. It appeared taller than me but looking down I saw it was floating about a foot off the ground. This was going to be fun




> 3 Introductions!!!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Logans point of view
His house


Grabbing the spear from the air, I began to go through simple spear strikes to get used to it. But that wasn’t necessary, it already felt like second nature. Everything was already there in my mind. Like a file had been downloaded. Now this is where things really start to get interesting. “Spirit Spear Chasteifol, fifth configuration!” With those words, hundreds of kunais appeared around me. Turning around, I gathered all the kunais and sent them to line up in front of me. On count I had three hundred. Probably not accurate to the show but Frociesta probably took a guess. I began by using my hands to make them go in different location until I made a mini tornado out of them in my living room. I figured I shouldn’t go outside in case people see me. And apparently the Everfree isn’t very private either. 

I slowly walked over to the tornado as a thought crossed my mind. What if I could control them with my mind? Combat would be so much easier. Surely there are something’s I can learn to do right? Looking straight towards the tornado, I began focusing hard on my kunais. However, to no prevail. They wouldn’t budge.

A different thought popped into my mind. If King struggles to use levitate because he himself is also levitating, what if I’m stood on the ground. With a different approach, I stared down the tornado again. “Levitation!” Now I was controlling a good hundred of them at will while the others fell to the ground. So there is somewhere I can go with this. If I can substitute my levitation with air bending I can focus on controlling my spear better. Without having to use my hands. It was going to take a long time but it should be worth it.

“Spirit Spear Chastiefol, base form!” The knives then turned into a large green pillow. God how I always wanted one of these. Grabbing it, I began making my way up the stairs. Walking over to my room, I grabbed a notebook and pencil that Celestia had left me and began to jot a few things down. 


To do list


~Learn to fly
~Learn to levitate all my kunais/or learn to control my spear without the use of my hands
~Check out sweet apple acres
~Head to the library
~Some experimentation....

Then I got another good idea

~Learn to switch configurations without shouting

If people know what the configurations are and you shout them out then they are rather easy to council out or counter. 

With that done, I put the notebook back down on the table and jumped back into bid leaving my pillow floating mid air. I disabled it and it fell to the floor. Now, I can finally get some rest.

I woke up the next morning rather early, in fact the sun wasn't up. It was a dreamless sleep but that just meant I was completely restored. I got out of my bed, with Chastiefol just behind me, and began making my way downstairs. Once at the bottom of the stairs, I looked to my left to see the weird book still on the kitchen counter. I walked over and flipped a few pages to check if anything else had popped up when I was sleeping, but considering Frociesta based this entire world on cartoons and anime, I'm pretty sure it's only going to happen when I'm around for the sake of convenience. Wander why that is.

I picked up the book and then began walking back up the stairs. I got to my room and placed the book on top of my notebook that was on my bedside table. With that done, I went back down stairs and began preparing a salad. It may be really early in the morning, but to that I say 'who cares'. Quick, healthy, cheap, edible. Ticks all the boxes. I finished and sat down at the kitchen counter facing the open living room. A few moments later I heard a knock on the door. Keep in mind that the sun hasn't come up yet. I stopped eating and went over to the tall fawn door. Opening it, I was greeted by a rather tall man with spiky grey hair. He was wearing a pair of black jeans and a black tank top. Rather large build with a few scars going down his arms. The way he carried himself just screamed soldier. Standing next to him was a rather short woman with short pink and green hair. She had freckles but that didn't take away from how cute she was. She was wearing a pair of blue skinny jeans and had a teal green top with a pink and yellow flower on it.

An odd duo for sure



(Add some scars and boom)




(Minus the wings)


(Not a commission obviously. Found them on google)

The tall one spoke, "Greetings, I am Lieutenant Colonel Thunderlane." He put his hand out as he said this. Knowing he was obviously a soldier, I returned it with a firm grip. Noticing this, he tightened his grip and returned the smile I was giving him. "A pleasure to meet you." Before I could respond another voice chimed in from my right.

"And I'm Sergeant First Class Blossomforth, it's nice to meet you." She also put her hand out. Taking it in my own I gave it a small kiss and then let go. Now, I don't mind physical contact if it's just a sign of respect or common matters. I also don't mind as much if I do it myself, but if someone randomly goes to touch me without my permission, that's a different story.

"A pleasure to meet you two. Now, how can I help you?"

Thunderlane spoke, "And just skip past the fact that you just flustered one of the higher ranking officials?" He said with a smile.

Continuing this conversation will bare no fruit for me, "Precisely" That got a small laugh out of him whilst Blossomforth stood looking at the ground with a small blush on her face. "Would you like to come in?" I said, moving out the way of the door slightly. The lieutenant nodded at me and walked in with a still floor gazing sergeant right behind him. "Please make your self comfortable. Breakfast?" The both looked rather shocked at that.

Until Thunderlane spoke, "Well if your offering, may I have an apple?" By this point I had already walked into the kitchen to grab my half eaten salad. I put the rest in the bin and then grabbed an apple from the fruit bowl. Without responding to his question, I tossed it in the air and then caught it again to check its freshness and then tossed it behind me without looking back. I then heard catching sound followed by, "Much appreciated."

I then turned around to look at blossom, still in the kitchen. "Sergeant?" 

"If you have any, a pastry please. If not its fine." I turned around to grab a croissant but then heard, "And I'm not as good a catch as Thundy!" I turned around to look at her with a smirk on my face. Realising what she had just said, she became what can only be described as a tomato and began staring at the ground again.

Then 'Thundy' spoke, "Please, no nicknames on the job."

"Sorry......"

That got a laugh out of both me and Thunderlane. I then turned back around to grab a croissant. I took it in my hand and then used my air bending to float it over towards Blossomforth until it was directly in front of her. She looked up slightly at it and took it out of the air with a slightly surprised look on her face.

Then Thunderlane spoke, also with a slightly shocked look on his face. "So the rumours were true, your magic really doesn't have a signature to it." That confused me for a sec until I realised. If they have their own type of magic, than mine is completely unique to me and only me. Therefore, no one else can sense it. I can see that being rather useful.

A little information never hurt nobody, "Well you see, I wouldn't really call it magic....." I trailed off. "Anyway, please have a seat, anywhere is fine." They both accepted the fact that I was not going to share more on the subject and went to sit down on the sofa directly to the left of the door. I went over to the single sofa in the corner of the room and took a seat. The fire place suddenly bursting to life shocked Blossomforth a bit but Thunderlane didn't move a muscle. That confirmed my earlier theory. "So how may I help you two?"

The sergeant responded with, "No name?"

"Please, we both know you already know my name. Two princesses give me an entire town, tell me there are things attacking it, and then up and leave without telling me anything. The next day, two high ranking officers knock on my door. Coincidence I think not."

Thunderlane laughed slightly at my answer. "I see your a sharp one"

"I try"

He then began to explain why they were here. They wanted to speak to me about military matters such as where curtain guards are stationed and where to evacuate citizens should things turn south. He also explained to me that they were the two highest ranks in Ponyville and that I should refer to them if I need anything. We chatted for about an hour until the sun finally came up. I now knew about the different races such as earth, pegasus and unicorn and how they fight. I also now knew more about how much defence they are lacking in not only Ponyville but in Canterlot as well. Apparently there hasn't been a full fledge war in over 2000 years, but over the last couple years there have been bands of stray fangs wondering into villages all over Equistria. After he gave me a rundown on everything we spent another half and hour or so just chatting about different fighting styles and what we find most comfortable or most flexible. And that lead to this.....

"So," Thunderlane spoke, "we've been chatting for over half an hour about what fighting styles me and Blossom like, but not once have you mentioned which style you use." He said with a small smirk. That got me to think. I don't even know what fighting style Ban, King or Ang use let alone all three. Hell, I have new powers coming in as well, so how am I supposed to name it? Which led me to do the easiest thing I could do to stop myself from having to answer.

"The only way you'll get that information is by watching me fight." I said with a cocky grin. His smirk slightly grew at that which slightly worried me.

"So then.............what would yous a if I challenged you to a dual?" I've been fucking played!!! He knew I'd dodge the question!!! Sly son of a bitch!!!!

Trying to keep a smile on my face, with my eye twitching however, I responded. "Well seeming as though you're the head of military in this town, and I'm it's sworn protector, I can't really say no to my higher ups."

He looked a bit confused at that and then said, "You're also the owner of this village are you not? By all means we are in no way your higher up, and even if I was, I wouldn't make you fight me. I merely wanted to know if you'd be up for it." I guess that kind of makes sense. Guess this 'Baron' thingy has quite the importance.

"Well your in luck, I would have agreed to it either way." I mean come on. I haven't fought anything worth my while since I got here. A chance to fight one of the lieutenant colonels of the Equestrian army is practically priceless.

My response put a large smile on his face. "One week, Ponyville barracks, twelve o'clock. Sound good sir?" 

I quirked a brow at that, "Yeah sounds good, but what's with the sir?"

Blossom spoke up this time, "Well normally we would have started off with it but the Princesses explained to us that you were unaware of the political power you hold and saw it best to explain first." Makes sense I guess.

"Fair enough."

Then Thunderlane stood up, "We best be off now, it was nice chatting to you sir."

Cutting him off before he could continue, "Cut it with the sir thing, Phoenix is fine." 

I saw his lip curl slightly at that. "Well Phoenix, it was a pleasure chatting with you."

Then Blossomforth spoke, "I'm sure we'll get to chat like this some other time in the future, until then." She got up as she said that. Also getting up, I walked them over to the door and opened it up for them as they walked behind me.

"Until next week." I said. Thunderlane walked past me and then Blossom. They both then turned back around to look at me.

"Until then." They both responded with at the same time. They then turned around and began walking away. I closed the door behind them and then made my way back over to the single sofa. Sitting down, I began contemplating everything I had just heard, and began forming plans on how I could fix some of there problems. By the time I had finally gotten back up and made my way over to the door, it was half six in the morning. Still plenty of time to check out the library. 

Opening the door, I went to take a step outside but instead accidently kicked a rather large box that was sitting on my door step. Must have come just after the other two left. Using my air bending, I carried it into the house and then up the stairs. I directed it towards my room where I then placed it on top of my bed. Looking to the corner. I saw Chastiefol in its pillow form lying on the ground where I left it after hearing I had visitors. I floated it over to me and jumped on it belly first. Now floating just over the package, I brought out my hand and mildly scratched the tape covering it. I then spoke the words, "Status promotion." With that, a large rip tore though the package and uncovered stacks and stacks of clothing articles all rapped in plastic. She really outdid herself.

I began to rummage through the pieces of clothing. There were jeans of all three of the colours I asked for and the same with the tops, There were formal shirts of all three colours as well along with three shirts each with one of the three colours fading into the other in a really cool fashion. There were some baggy jogging bottoms that looked comfortable as hell. This was like when your nan buys you too many clothes but you don't care because they're all awesome! I had unpacked all but three items that now sat at the very bottom of the box. Reaching down, I grabbed a pair of really nice looking black trousers that looked like something you might wear with a school uniform. The second Item was a formal shirt. The left side of it was purple whilst the other was a dark green. The point were the colours switched was the buttons. It honestly looked really cool. And finally, the last item in the box was a large black coat. Something you would expect Sherlock to wear, but the inside was lined with dark green and purple chequered diamonds. It was honestly the nicest jacket I had ever seen. Rarity really is outstanding.

I immediately put on my new set of attire. Looking in the mirror, I saw how kick ass this outfit looked. I even pulled a few poses. I decided that I would wear that if I were to ever have to make a public image or attend a meeting. But for now a pair of black jeans and a purple shirt will do just fine. Throwing on some more practical clothes, I began loading my new clothes into a set of draws and hung up the nicer shirts in a closet. Rarity also made me a load of underwear and socks as well and I threw them in the draws too. 

With that now done, I made may way down the stairs and through the door. I had Chastiefol just behind me and decided to leave it in the house. I then began to make my way over to the library. Thankfully I wasn't disturbed on the way there and managed to get there in about five minutes. It was a weird looking library that was built in a massive tree. This world truly is something. I opened the door and walked inside to find a girl in the corner of the room changing. She looked up at me with surprise evident on her face. I wasn't  going to wait around and stare like some anime dude because I like the way my face looks right now and I don't think it would look any better with a book in it. Instantly closing the door, I stepped back out side and waited for a few moments so I could figure out how to get out of this predicament without being seen as a pervert. "Apologies, I'm new to this town and thought this to be the library. I had no clue you were in there."

A voice soon shot back from inside, "Oh yeah, and how do you expect me to believe that? Everyone knows I live here." Then why the fuck isn't there a lock?

"Like I said, I am new here. I did not know that you lived here. I'll just come back another time. Again, I'm sorry." With that I began to leave. But before I could get very far I heard the door behind me open, revealing a short woman with navy blue hair with pink and purple stripes through it. She was now wearing a light blue shirt with a purple skirt to go with it. She also had a pair of purple glasses as well as a pink bow tie at the top of her shirt.






(Again, not a commission)


She spoke in an almost desperate manor, "Wait no don't go. Your welcome to have a look around. Just.....knock next time" She said with a small blush. 

"Thank you, I'll be sure to knock next time." I then began walking back over and walked in just behind the girl. 

As we were walking in she spoke, "Come to think of it, I really haven't seen you around here before."

"That's right, I only just moved in yesterday to be honest with you." Bowing slightly towards her, I spoke, "I am Baron of Ponyville, Phoenix Elvenkind." That got her to stop. She turned around at me with a completely bewildered face. "I'm actually here to find out what this Baron title means......" I trailed off.

She poke slowly still looking up at me with shocked, "You mean, the Princesses themselves gave you the title of Baron and have given you Ponyville?" 

In a nonchalant way, "Yup, now if you don't mind I have some books to read." Why was she so shocked? I'm starting to get the feeling this new rank means more than I've been told.

"Well sir...." Instantly, I cut her off.

"Phoenix is fine."

Still a bit shook up by what she had just heard she said, "Ok Phoenix, please list the books you would like to check out, bare in mind that they need to be returned in two weeks. But I'm sure I can extend that a bit seeming as though it's you." That kind of annoyed me. I will not be taking any special treatment. It makes me stand out and that's the last thing I want right now.

"Please, no special treatment. I hate hierarchy's."

"Oh, very well then." She said, still shocked by my actions.

"Could you please lend me a book on this lands politics and ranks along with a book on currency. Oh, and any books on basic magic that you have would be great as well." I wasn't planning on learning it or anything, I just thought it best to get used to it and get a better understanding.

"Very well, I shall be with you shortly. Please, have a seat." She gestured to a sofa where I then sat. I'm pretty sure this was twilight judging by the hair and the fact that she's a librarian. I'm not one for small talk but if I'm right then that means she's rather important. I heard something about her becoming a princess or something.

"So tell me, what is your name?" She looked a bit surprised at that.

"Why would you want to know my name given your status." I gave her a stern look until she realised what she had just said. "Um, I am Twilight Sparkle."

"Nice to meet you Twilight, I'm a rather big fan of books so I suspect we'll see a lot of each other." I said with a smile. Man, feels so weird being polite in Ban's voice. Her face lit up at my statement.

"I'm very glad to hear that," She said with a spark in her tone, "there aren't many people here that enjoy reading."

"Really? Thought they'd be all over it." 

Still grabbing my requested books, "Yes. It's a shame really." She finished grabbing the books I asked for and placed them on the table in front of me. Going through them I saw that there was one on politics, one on currencies, one on capitalism and two 'magic for beginners' books. "Will these do?" 

"They'll be just fine, arigato." 

She cocked a brow at that, "Pardon?" I then realised what I had just said. Back on earth and on the Aroura, I had a habit of slipping to Japanese from time to time to keep it fresh in my mind.

"Apologies, I have a tendency to slip into different languages."

"What do you mean? There is only one language." Oh shit. I fucked up. 

"Well you see, there's more where I come from." As those words came out my mouth she went silent. Confused, I looked up from the books to her. She was wearing a look of interest that could have rivalled Raritys. Realising my mistake, I instantly put my hand up to stop her from asking any questions and spoke. "One day I'll sit down and give you all the info you need. Well, all the information I see fit. So just cool it on the questions for now ok?"

She instantly replied in a chipper tone, "I'll hold you to it!" Dodged a massive bullet there.

"Good." I then stood up and picked up the books. "I'd like to stay and chat," I wouldn't, "but I must be off. I have some other errands to run."

She slightly deflated at that, "I see. Well please stop by whenever you feel like it!" 

"Will do, and again, thank you. I'll see you around." After a quick goodbye I was out of the library and headed over to sweet apple acres. Whilst on my way there, I sent Chastiefol over to me from my house. I put the books on it and then levitated it though my bedroom window. All while strolling along to the apple farm. 

I got there in rather good time. Walking though the front gates, I began to take in just how big this place was. I began to make my way over to the building that was right in front of me until I heard a southern accent calling from my left. "Well howdy there partner!" I turned around to look at them to see a rather tall woman compared to the people I had seen before. She had bright blond hair and was wearing blue short shorts and a white shirt that was tied up at the top to create a tank top. She also had an orange jacket over that which really suited her. Her short shorts also had a belt with a big golden star in the middle. She was beautiful. I think I remember one of the main characters having a southern voice. "Ah don't believe ah've seen you aroun before! How can ah 'elp ya?"

"Hey there.  Just wanted to have a look around and get my self used to the area and all that. I'm Phoenix Elvenkind, Baron of Ponyville. Nice to meet you." I said with a small bow. If she was one of the six then I should also get in her good books just in case. 

She seemed a bit taken aback by what I had just told her. "If you're the Baron o' Ponyville, watcha doin bowing ta me?!"

Huh. Old habits die hard I guess. Back on the Aroura bowing would get you by just fine. "I see your point. It's a habit of mine and it's not one I think I need to drop."

"Fair enough! I'm Applejack!" She said, rather pleased with my response. "How 'bout ah show you round!" 

Guess a quick tour wouldn't hurt. "I don't see why not." We spent the next fifteen minutes going around all the important parts of the area. We didn't make much small talk as I think she realised I wasn't one for chatting. At least someone realised. We made a full loop round the farm, minus the actual acres, and found our selves back at the front of the barn.

"An' ah think that's just about everything!" She said with a large smile.

"I appreciate the tour. I now have a good idea of the land I own." I said with a small chuckle. "Well, I best be off, but there are a few other matters that I wish to discuss with you on a later date."

"Oh! Well aren't ah popular!" She said with a laugh. "Guess I'll see you then Phoenix." I gave her a quick nod and a smile, and took my leave. Walking out the front gates, I began to ponder. What the fuck do I do now? I only said I needed to be off now because I had spent the entire day mingling and didn't really want to socialize for any longer than I had to. It's not like I have any anime to watch or an instrument to play (which absolutely sucked balls). Actually, now's as good a time to train as any so fuck it.

Quickly sprinting home, I grabbed Chastiefol, gave it a few swings, and then put in on my back. It wasn't holstered to anything, it was just floating there. I then went up stairs to put on some more training worthy clothing. I threw on some baggy black jogging bottoms and a dark green top. However, once I was finished getting changed, I began to hear a rather familiar page turning sound coming from my bedside table. I slight smile came to my face as I knew exactly what that meant.
> 4 First encounter
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Logan's point of view
His bedroom


I turned around to see the magnificent book flipping through page after page right in front of me. The grin on my face got even wider when the pages stopped and the book once again landed on the front cover. 

I walked over and turned the first page, then the next. The first page still said 'Chastiefol', but the next said "Teleportation dagger?" Shortly after the words came out of my mouth I once again got all the info the ability had to offer, which for some reason wasn't a lot this time. I then heard a thud come from just in front of where I was standing. Taking a step back, I looked down to see a rather sharp looking black dagger. I picked it up and started to examine it. It had a circle at the but of the sword. The handle was also black and had one line rapping round it self like thick black rope. Almost like a spiral, but covering/making up the entire thing. This lead down to a regular blade that seemed to be rather small but sharp. In-between the pommel and the blade was a basic black guard that only just stopped you from cutting itself but it still did its job. The whole thing was mat black and seemed to be rather light.

I twirled my new equipment around in my hand a little before abruptly throwing it at the wall directly to my right. It was a clean shot and was stuck exactly where it was intended to. I then clenched my hand and thought of the thing I wanted to do and suddenly found my self on the other side of the room next to the wall the dagger was in. I turned to my right to see my arm fully extended with my hand firmly gripped onto the weapon. 

Then the thought clicked. This must be from 'Dungeons and Dragons'. It's too similar to the blink dagger not to be right? I then got an idea on how to test that. I made my way back over to the book and where I was previously standing and then stopped. I then reached out my hand and swiped at the air as if I was catching a fly. After I had made this motion, I felt a slight weight difference in my hand and then saw the dagger was now there. I turned to the wall where I left it and found that it was gone, and now currently in my grasp.

This was going to be too useful for words. The combat possibility's are endless! Not to mention I can never lose it! Hell, I could even............ Before I finished that thought I had a realisation along with a great idea.

With all of my training gear still on and with my dagger still in hand, I made my way outside and out of the front door. I saw it was now coming to about lunch time judging by the position of the sun, which meant it would be rather difficult to test out my theory now. Meh, I'll just train later. Man if my plan works.

I then made my way back inside and left my new weapon on my kitchen counter. Another thing, I need to see whether I can make my own configuration of my spirit spear. A more compact version would be nice. You know, something I can walk around with in my jacket pocket or something without people constantly asking what it is. That sounds like a problem for future me though. Soon as though I can't do the more destructive training, I began to see whether I could switch between configurations without calling them out. Shouting really isn't my thing. 

I spent the next 6 hours training. I am a very patient guy and I know that there isn't much else I can do so training was really my only option. Plus, after about three hours I started to be able to do it. Which meant I needed to practice as much as possible whilst it was still fresh in my mind. With all of that training I could probably do it twenty percent of the time, but that's not enough in a fight. Therefore, I decided to dedicate one hour everyday before bed to practice it. It was now getting to about eight but the sun still hasn't gone down which tells me its probably spring or summer, seeming as though none of the leaves are falling either. Which meant I still had a bit of time to kill, and I'm getting pretty tired of standing still and forcing a spear to transform with my fucking mind. 

I hadn't eaten much today so I decided to kill some time and drop by the café/bakery thing in town. I think its called Sugarcube Corner, which isn't very promising considering I don't like sweet things. Hopefully they have me a pastry and a nice cup 'a jo. I unequipped all my gear and began making my way over, now wearing my earlier attire of black jeans and purple shirt. The walk wasn't long and I got there without any distractions which was nice. I opened the door to the odd shaped house to be greeted by a familiar pink haired girl behind the counter.

"Hey there! Welcome to........" She paused and got an exited look on her face, "Hey! It's you! Your the grumpy guy that just moved into Ponyville!"

With a forced smile, I responded with, "Hey Pinkie." She then ducked under the counter and then appeared right in my face. 

"Now then," She began, "Why did you run away from me!" She was poking an eye out at me as if interrogating me. I had to make something up so I wouldn't have her asking me question after question. So, I began chatting out of my ass.

"Well you see, being Baron of Ponyville, the princesses had me work on some urgent business" Before any remark could come out of Pinkies now bewildered face, I heard a southern accent chime in from my right.

"With all due respect sir, that's a lie an' you know it." I turned to face the woman and found that it was Applejack. Then it hit me. She's a fucking lie detector! Fuck! "So why'd you really up an' leave?" Well it's not like I can lie to her, and I wouldn't want to hurt this pink things feelings for no reason. So I said,

"To be honest with you, I hate social interactions." After I said that Pinkie looked from me then to Applejack. Probably for confirmation.

Then the southern woman spoke, "Ah see. Ah suppose that understandable." 

Then the Pinkie chimed in, "Well that still doesn't excuse you from pretending to be the Baron of Ponyville." Still using her playful tone whilst eyeing me up only a foot away from my face.

"Actually," I started," I am the Baron of Ponyville." After that, Pinkie stepped two steps back and was wearing a shocked look on hear face, it was so damn cute! She then turned to look at Applejack and she simply nodded. With a quick look back to me, she dropped to the floor in a begging position and started rambling nonsense.

"I beg of thee my lord! Thou doth not wish to cause thee annoyance! I humbly ask for thou forgiveness o' great one." 

In a bored tone, I simply said, "Get up." She quickly scrambled to her feet and took a very professional yet fearful stance. Like I had done before, I gave looked at her uninterested and then began to make my way past her. As I did this I spoke. "Phoenix is fine." I then heard/sensed Applejack get up and whisper something into Pinkies ear. I could definitely hear what she said if I was to focus on their conversation, but they must be whispering for one reason or another. Either way, it must have pleased Pinkie because I began to hear her jump up and down behind me. 

At this point I was at the counter and began to order. "A coffee please. Black no sugar. And a plain croissant." I could get this stuff at home but I like the feel and atmosphere of a café.

The man at the counter began with, "Sir..."

Instantly cutting him off, "Phoenix." I said with a small smile. Man these people shore do love there hierarchy's.

He began again, now with a small smile cause he realised what type of person I was. "Phoenix, don't you think it's a bit late for coffee?"

"It's going to be a long night."

With a slight chuckle, "I see, please take a seat. We'll be with you shortly." With a nod, I turned around to find a seat. Applejack was now back at her spot, she motioned with her hand to the seat opposite her in her booth. Internally groaning, I put on a fake smile and made my way over to the spot she gestured to. I mean, it's not like I could have just said no. 

Now sitting down, we didn't converse at all. She was the one person I had met so far that picked up on the fact that I am not not one for small talk. So we just sat there, enjoying each others company whilst Pinkie was peaking her head over the counter and sneaking looks at me. It was surprisingly nice. Being a loner for two years wasn't bad. In fact, I hated most of humanity, but the people here are rather pleasant, even if some of them are rather touchy. 

My order finally arrived. I noticed that Applejack didn't have anything so I tared my croissant in half and then picked up one side. I held it in front of me and gave her a look as to ask a question without asking. After seeing this, she smiled and shook her head. But as if we were in some kind of anime or story, her stomach rumbled rather loudly. I gave her a knowing smirk and she blushed a bit. I put the piece of food on the plate I had and slid it over to her. Still blushing slightly, she gave a nervous chuckle and said, "Thank ya kindly." This was nice. Someone that got me.

We stayed there for a while finishing our food and me my coffee. After I was done I got up and spoke. "I best be off." I then put the designated money on the table. I found a decent stash of cash in the draw of my bedside table. 

Standing up as well, she replied with, "It was nice eating with ya Phoenix. I guess I'll see you around." She was smiling and looked quite contempt. I then figured I'd better fix one of my habits. I slowly raised my hand for a handshake. It would seem this world had quite the amount of touchy people. I probably need to get used to it, and the best way to do that would be to get used to it with people you know. I say 'know' lightly considering I've been here less than three days. She returned the gesture and said, "Huh, RD an' Rares said ya weren't a fan a' physical contact?"

"I'm not. But I need to kick this habit sooner or later. And I'd rather do it sooner."

Her face slightly lit up at that, "Well that's good ta hear! One day you'll have to let me hug ya!" I was right, this place is reeeally touchy feely. 

I replied evenly with a smile, "One day." I then let go of her hand and took a step back. "Well, until then." 

"Until then" And with that I was off. I made my way back home and crashed on the sofa. They were so damn comfortable it was scary. After a moment of laying there I got up and began to get ready for my training. Now equipped with my training clothes from before, Chastiefol on my back, dagger in hand, and my charming good looks, I made my way out of the house. At some point I'm going to need to speak to rarity about getting a holster for my dagger (that I should probably find a name for). 

Now just outside my house, I looked up at the magnificent moon that was right in front of me. A more magnificent site, you'd be hard pressed to find. I then began to take a stance with my dagger in hand. I was in a position you'd use to throw a javelin, and in this case, a dagger. I made small adjustments to my stature until I felt I was ready. With an incredibly fast launch of my arm and turn of my waist, the dagger was no longer in my hand. I looked off into the distance to find the clouds I had thrown it through had parted for it along with the air particles in front of me. It was an odd site but soon went back to normal. I stood there waiting for about a minute just in case before I felt satisfied with the time. And with a quick clench of my hand, I was no longer on Equis. 

Taking in my surroundings, I found that my plan had worked. I was now standing on complete stone with nothing to be seen for miles. This was definitely the moon alright. I figured if people could spy on me when in the Everfree than I don't really have anywhere to train. However, I think people would be hard pressed to find me here. I noticed that the moon had normal gravity in this world, along with being smaller. But most importantly, it had oxygen. Here I was thinking I'd have to train whilst constantly healing myself. 

First things first, "Spirit Spear Chastiefol, fifth configuration!" Three hundred kunai soon formed around me like a wall to prevent anyone from getting past me. With the use of my hand signs, I gathered all of them in front of me in a ten by thirty rectangle. I then released them and they all fell down onto them ground. Like before, I managed to raise about one hundred just like before, whilst the others lay still on the ground. 

For the next hour or so I spent time going through formations and slowly adding more until I got to around one hundred and fifteen, maybe one hundred and twenty at a push. This was more difficult than I thought it would be but over time I should be able to control maybe two hundred, and even possibly all three hundred, but I highly doubt it. Deciding to move onto something else, I began to work on my air bending. More specifically, my flight. Frociesta already gave me the basics. Stuff like simple levitation, but I needed to: fly, control my kunai, use hand to hand combat/weapon. So yeah, I had my work cut out for me. 

I then spent the next the next hour or so flying around rather intricately as to get a better feel for it. I also practiced a bit of mid air CQC so I could get a feel for it, it's gonna take a bit of getting used to but like with my kunai, it would be worth it. During this time I also tried out levitation my kunai and flying at the same time. It wasn't as difficult as I thought it was going to be, but I did fall quite a few times. 

I ran through random things for another half an hour or so, such as the configurations I hadn't tried and 'Kings Disaster'. I managed to create a small plant which, given that the moon is made of pure rock, is pretty impressive. 

I would've continued for longer, however, I suddenly got a really bad feeling in my stomach. Something wasn't right. Looking up towards Equis, my eyes focused on the planet to see if any thing was wrong. I already realised my eyes were incredibly perceptive and could see for hundreds maybe thousands of miles if I wished. Almost zooming in, I saw all the residents of Ponyville flooding into the barn in Sweet Apple Acres. Scanning some more, I found a group of five cloaked unknowns slowly walking through the town. That was all the information I could gather before Bans instincts took over. 

I reached into my pocket to grab my dagger and instantly threw towards Ponyville. Judging by the small male cry I heard soon afterwards, with my godly ears, I figured I'd hit my target. Clenching my fist, I found that I was now back in Ponyville and on the back of one of the cloaked figures. It didn't take long for me to figure out that these were fangs. I pulled the blade out of his back and then straight into the side of his neck. Kicking away from the new found corpse, I eyed the other four as I reclaimed my weapon by making a fist. 

"Hey guys. Now how can I help you today?" I was answered by all four of them growing different fucking kagune! These aren't vampires. There fucking ghouls!! 

Link to kagune types

The one furthest to the left had a koukaku, along with the third one along. The one furthest to the right was an ukaku user and the last one had bikaku. They were all yellow and appeared to be rather basic. None of them had any unique features which meant they were probably B rank or lower, so not much of a problem.

The ukaku user began firing multiple yellow shards towards me whilst the two koukakus began making there way towards me for close quarters combat. Weaving past the projectiles, I met the other two half way. Our encounter began with one of them going to sweep the leg and the other one going for a jab at my face with his kagune. Not a bad strategy I must admit, but they picked the wrong guy to use it on. Jumping over the leg that was coming for my shins, I twisted my body mid air to dodge the jab and deliver a round house kick to the side of the ghouls head sending him into a building to my left. I think I was completely horizontal at some point in that kick. Landing back down, I dodged a slash to my waist from the one that had attempted to sweep me. Little did he know, I had sent Chastiefol behind him. And just like that, his neck and body were no longer one entity. Narrowly dodging the shard that was sent my way, I turned to see the bikaku making its way towards me as another wave of crystals came from behind him. I could tell these two had been fighting together for a while and were vey familiar with this strategy. His kagune split into two at the end to create a snake tong, which gave me a rather clever idea. May as well have fun with this. 

The onslaught of projectiles suddenly stopped and the bikaku stopped to see what was wrong, only to find a massive pile of earth spikes where the ukaku once was. The remaining ghoul turned back round to me and I spoke. "They were getting quite annoying." I heard the sound of teeth grinding behind his cloak (which seemed to be magic considering I couldn't see any of there face). They began to charge me again. I stood still and let them reach me, which led to multiple tale strikes coming my way. The bikaku had now split his tale in two and was striking with a wide range of attacks in no particular order.  However, I just stood and slightly moved my body out of the way of the attacks and occasionally swiped one away with the back of my hand. I was waiting for something., and that thing finally came. He/she went for a pincer attack at my upper chest, probably wanting to at least cut off my arms, but I cut it off by putting both my hands out and grabbing both ends of the kagune. I couldn't see this guys face but I assume it reads something along the lines of 'oh shit'. I quickly tied a triple knot with both tales. They soon began struggling but I used my pure strength to prevent escape. Grabbing the newly formed knot, I began rapidly spinning. After a few seconds of this I let go of my grip and sent him launching over the Everfree, which is were I assume they came from. With that, I smacked my hands together and whistled, slightly impressed by my handy work.

Well that sure was something. Normally, I probably would have killed that last one, but who ever sent them needs to know that there's a new guy on the block. One that can dispose of about anything that they send. Going over to the now non-existent wall that I sent one of the koukakus, I crouched down next to the ghoul that was laying in the rubble. Feeling his pulse, he was still alive, just unconscious. That was exactly what I was hoping for. I pulled off the hood to reveal a middle aged man. Nothing too particular about him. I then began searching through his mind with kings 'mind reading'. I didn't find much before his face suddenly exploded all over my clothes. Looks like they didn't want people to get access to there knowledge.

"Ah shit!" I said, spitting out parts of face from my mouth. I didn't find much but there was one bit of interesting information. Before I could finish my train of thought, I heard a large amount of foot steps coming from my right. Standing up and turning towards all the ruckus, I saw all of Ponyville running towards me (minus a few parents who were busy covering there children's eyes). Nine people were in front of the rest, seven of which I recognised. It was: Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow, Pinkie, Thunderlane, and Blossomforth. The other two were a small boy, no younger than thirteen, and the other one seemed to be the girl from the forest that I had followed here. 

When they finally reached me, they all immediately began asking questions about my health and were circling me as to check for injuries. With a bored expression on my face, I raised my hand for them to stop. After they all did so I spoke. "Yes I am fine." Then turning to the lieutenant, "Any damage to the citizens and or buildings?"

He slightly sighed at that and spoke, "Thankfully, other than the wall you threw that fang through, there was no damage done and no casualties."

I quickly corrected him, "These things are not fangs, they are ghouls. I am quite familiar with them."

He looked a bit shocked at that but then a smile came to his face. "Well the more information we have on them the better." I nodded to him as to say that we'd be having a conversation in the future, and then turned back to the rest of the group who seemed to be dying to speak. 

Pinkie was the first one to speak up. "Are you sure your ok Phopho!" Terrible nickname but right now I can't be asked to correct her. "Those were some really powerful monsters!!! Even the princesses struggle with that many!!!!" She got progressively louder as she spoke.

"Well then I hate to break it to you, but your princesses aren't very strong." Come on, I could have done that in a split second if I chose to.

They all had bewildered faces on and some of them seemed offended, namely Twilight, Thunderlane and Blossomforth. Not sure what Twilight was annoyed about though. She soon spoke up, "Do you even know who you're even talking about! They are the all powerful goddesses of the sun and moon!!" After she finished, I heard a familiar motherly voice come from behind me. 

"Indeed we are, but compared to someone of his calibre, we're mere children. So don't be upset my dear student." Student? I guess that explains the reaction. At this point Celestia and Luna were stood next to me as we all faced them. 

I then spoke up. "I meant no offence your majesties. I simply said as I thought. I'd be very surprised if you could handle that group as easily as I did."

Luna giggled at that, "Don't get us wrong, we could have handled that group. Well maybe not as easily as you and probably not in this form but it wouldn't be much effort to dispose of them." What did she mean by this form? Could she transform or something? Maybe I didn't give the princesses as much praise as I should have.

"I see." 

I turned once again back to Thunderlane and said, "Could you have someone dispose of these bodies? I'm in need of a shower."

Twilight cut in, "Quit being so informal in front of the princesses! It's as if you don't know they're here!"

Deciding to fuck around with her, I replied with, "What princesses?" I began to look around and purposely skip over where the princesses were standing. "Are you ok Twilight? I think you need to lay down." Every laughed or at least sniggered at that. Everyone except Twilight of course. 

Before Twilight could respond, Celestia chimed in, "It is quite alright my student. We are most informal with him and in return him to us. We rather like his attitude to be honest. 

"I try." I said with a smile. "Well if you don't mind. I best be off."

"Do you wish to not celebrate your victory?" Luna asked. 

"I'm not one for big gatherings, and it's been a rather long day." As I said that I looked up to the magnificent moon that was out tonight, which confused a few of them judging by the looks on their faces.  "However, I do wish to speak to some of you tomorrow. Rarity, Thunderlane and the princesses. You can expect a visit from me at some point in the future."

Rarity spoke. "Oh! Well you know where to find me!" She said with a large smile.

Thunderlane spoke next. "You can usually find me in the head office of the barracks. If not then try the Everfree borders."

"Noted."

Then Celestia spoke. "Try Canterlot castle. I inform the guards of your future arrival and I'll have them escort you to us. Not that you need the extra bulk." She finished with a smirk. 

"Arigato." Everyone except Twilight gave me a confused look. Realising my mistake, I instantly ran home.

I grabbed a quick shower, threw on some boxers and a pair of jogging bottoms, and crashed on the bed. My still unnamed dagger was on my bedside table along with my book of notes and my book a powers. Chastiefol was in its pillow form in the corner of the room and my charming good looks were still on my person. Before I drifted to sleep I began to think of names for my dagger. Only to come up short. So I just let sleep take me instead.
> 5 Party!!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Logan's point of view
His room


Waking up from a rather pleasant sleep, I put on some more presentable clothes, (those being a pair of black jeans and a purple shirt) grabbed Chastiefol, and headed down stairs. I figured I didn't really need to carry my dagger with me. Still need to come up with a name for that. Once downstairs, I grabbed an apple and a sandwich and sat down at the counter. I have quite the bit to do today. I think I'll head to Sugar Cube Corner first though.

I finished my quick breakfast and went off to grab me a nice hot cuppa jo. Walking outside, I noticed there wasn't anyone around. Odd considering its not too early in the morning, meh, no skin off my nose. Just means less weird looks. I got there rather quickly but when I turned the corner to the road I sensed a large sum of energy being generated within it. Like, a whole towns worth. My first guess was that there was a ghoul attack, but I'm pretty shore I would have heard it. So I have to assume they are throwing some kind of party for my victory yesterday. And so, I turned back around, and ran home. It's too early in the morning for this shit.

Reaching home, I walked in and sat down on the single sofa. There wasn't much I could really do at the moment until they give up on the party. Unless I paid the princesses a visit but I'm sure they're rather busy in the mornings. Alright then, its name thinking time! 

After about 5 minutes I came to a name that I thought fit rather well, Shadowfall. It didn't really mean anything in particular, I just thought it sounded kick ass. On to more important matters, I got up and began making my self some coffee soon as I'm avoiding Sugar Cube Corner like the plague. Once finished I sat back down and began just thinking. Not of anything in particular, just going over all the information I had received as of late. I didn't get much from that ghoul mind but I did manage to find their ranking system.

The ghouls army consists of five factions: ruber, lūteus, viridis, caeruleus and āter. Thankfully, I already knew that these were the Latin terms for: red, yellow, green, blue, black. The easiest way to tell apart members of the respected factions would be the colour of their kagune. However, each faction specialises in different jobs and skills. 

The ruber faction, they believe that pure strength is the only way forwards and will do just about anything for power. They focus on building up there body strength in order to appeal to their leader, Ouroboros. Their proffered fighting style is CQC and they don't have many ukaku users in their ranks. Overall, a complete power house known for taking down opponents with there overwhelming pride and power.

The lūteus faction, they are made up of many older ghouls that have seen war before. (Side note, ghouls live for thousands of years). They completely trust each other and are known for their joint attacks. That explains a lot. The members are rather traditional and focus on older fighting styles and techniques. They stray away from new styles of combat because they have a strong belief in the people of old and think that what ever they did must be the right way forward. Leader is unknown to me as only the higher ups know their name or who they are.

The viridis faction, they're completely ahead of time in terms of technology and specialise in support items and drugs to bolster up kagune. In terms of fighting ability they are pretty lacking but that is easily compensated by their intelligence. They are run by a scientist called Iris. From the information I've found, you would be hard pressed to find anyone close to her level of Iq. They won't be much of a problem by themselves but if they start feeling generous and handing out their products to someone like the ruber clans then we're gonna have ourselves quite the kerfuffle. 

Caeruleus, best described as the honourable ones. Lūteus has honour, but if the older techniques did permit eye poking, you can bet your ass that they would be all over it. On the contrary, caeruleus are true warriors. Warriors that would not dare dream of a sneak attack, or a swift kick to the bollocks. I don't care who's side you're on, that's commendable. They do not focus on a specific style and believe that one should pick their own path, making them very divers in there arsenal. They're going to be trouble if the time ever comes. 

The āter faction, otherwise known as the biggest pain in my ass! Nothing is known about them other then the fact that they are assassins. They take jobs from the other factions and from the Queens personal warriors. There's three of them in total. Sadly however, the moment any information about the Queen entered my mind I got a face full of face! 

That was all the information I could get before I was forced out. Not a bad amount of info, and it will help me with quite a few things, but I still need more so I can get a better read on what we're dealing with. I wouldn't be surprised if they had an F to SSS ranking as well. That was all for another time though.

After two hours or so of contemplating, I assumed they had given up on the party and got up from my chair. Heading out the door, once again, I could now see people out and about which was a good sign. However, the moment I stepped outside all eyes were on me. They probably thought I just didn't know about the surprise, and I'd rather keep it that way. I got to Raritys boutique in good time and entered the through the door, triggering the bell. Instead of Raritys voice I heard someone else call from upstairs.

"I'll be with you in a sec!" The voice sounded like it belonged to a small boy rather than a man, and seeing him come down the stairs confirmed my theory. He had spikey green hair and was wearing black jeans and a purple shirt. In fact, they were exactly the same as mine just smaller. We locked eyes for a moment and then both looked at each others attire.

"Nice outfit."
"Nice outfit."

We said this at the exact same time and then quickly locked eyes with each other again. That's when I realised that it was the boy from yesterday. The one that came running after the incident. We both gave a small laugh, and then he began again. "How can I help you today sir?" 

Ugh, "Phoenix is fine." That's getting old. 

"Ok Phoenix, what can I do for you?" 

"I'm in need of a weapon satchel for a small dagger." Clenching my fist, it appeared in my right hand. "For this." 

Looking up from the dagger to the boy, I saw that he was absolutely astonished. Jease these people are easily exited. "You really don't use magic do you?"

I simply relied with, "Nope." I'm praying for the day when people aren't as shocked about that and don't ask me a million questions. "Anyway, should I have you leave a message for Rarity or....." I trailed off.

"You want leather right?" I nodded. He put his hand on his chin and looked up to think until saying, "Lucky for you leather is my specialty. I'm sure Rare's won't be too annoyed if I take this order." Woah woah woah, isn't that like child labour or something! I thought this place was supposed to be friendship and happiness! 

"Well if you think you can then sure." Handing him the dagger, I spoke. "No particular style, black, durable." 

He lit up at my acceptance to have him make it. "You got it! Come back tonight, it should be done by then!" These guys sure do work quickly. 

"Will do." I turned to leave before remembering something, "I never caught your name?" When I had turned around he was already gone. I then suddenly heard him shout from upstairs. 

"The names Spike." Spike huh. Pretty cool name I guess. With that last bit of information, I took my leave. 

I was already a good distance from the boutique when I realised I forgot to ask where Rarity was. Ah well, I'm sure I'll run into her at some point. I decided the next thing to do would be relaying my info over to Thunderlane. Like he said, any info on the 'fangs' would be useful. I began looking around on the spot to see if I could find him. Considering I can see from earth from the fucking moon, I decided to just levitate upwards to get a birds eye view of the town. By the time I got a up a good one hundred meters or so the whole town was staring at me with amazed expressions plastered on their faces. Ignoring them, I began scanning the area for the Lieutenant. Finding him, he was patrolling the Everfree border right by sweet apple acres. I flew down towards him. When he noticed me in the corner of his eye he turned around to look at my descending form. 

He smiled at me and spoke, "What can't you do?" 

I mumbled under my breath, "That's a good question." Finally landing, I approached him and put my hand out. He returned the gesture but made it quick as he knew of my plight. 

He then spoke, "So, I am assuming this is to do with the information you have on the ghouls?"

"Correct."

Looking at his watch for a sec and then back up to me, he said, "My shift ends in half an hour, we can talk and walk and defend, or if you want I can drop by yours when I'm done."

Smiling, I spoke, "Walking and talking will be fine."

We spent the next half an hour relaying all the info we had on the ghouls/fangs to each other. I didn't learn anything knew other than that Thunderlane and Blossomforth themselves have been dealing with the ghouls for the past two years. Pretty impressive if you ask me. I told him all about the different kagune and the different factions, I skipped out on the Tokyo Ghoul law though. By the time we were done he had been caught up on everything I knew about the ghouls, meaning there was no time for small talk. Once we were done we said our goodbyes and I was now headed home.

It was now nearing lunchtime but I wasn't that hungry, so instead I decided I'd kill some time by helping around the town. There's always someone in need of an extra hand. I then began wondering around until I walked by a rather lively park with kids running manically left right and centre. I made my way closer to the park and stopped to watch the children enjoy their youths. After about a minute or so, a small boy accidently tripped and landed at my feet. I say small but he was rather tall for his age. He had Long dark blue hair, maybe even navy blue, with a few bight orange streaks going through it. He was wearing a casual blue shirt that was slightly lighter than his hair. On the front was what looked to be a target you would find in medieval times, except it was blue and orange. He was also wearing blue denim jeans that were ripped at the knees. When he lifted his head up the ground I saw that he head had orange eyes that matched his hair and shirt.

I crouched down in front of him and held out my hand for him to get up. He took it and did so. After brushing himself off a bit and parting his hair he looked up at me and spoke. "Thanks mister, sorry about that." 

I've always been a fan of kids, their innocence is bliss. With a smile I spoke, "No need to apologise, and please, call me Phoenix." 

He beamed at me, glad that I wasn't angry, and spoke, "Ok Phoenix! My names flying snipe!" He gave a silly solute. What was interesting was that when he made a solute, he parted his hair far enough to reveal his ears, or should I say feathers. They were white and rather pointy, almost like an animal of sorts. When he caught me looking at them he instantly lowered his hand and looked down at the floor ashamed."

Please tell me racism isn't a thing in this world. "What wrong there buddy?" 

He looked slightly surprised at that, and then lifted his head up to look at me again. "You mean, you're not weirded out?" He said slowly.

Putting on an even bigger smile, I responded with, "You must be a griffon right? Why would that weird me out?"

He looked down ashamed ,again, and spoke. "Well we're carnivores, everyone's afraid of me." He looked defeated at that. I then lifted his head up by his chin and then rapped an arm around his shoulder in a secretive gesture. I then looked at him and pulled back my cheek to reveal my canines. Upon seeing them, he jumped away and looked at me completely bewildered. "You mean your a....!"

I quickly covered his mouth and looked around to make sure no one heard. Getting closer to his ear, I said, "I'm an omnivore. But that's between you and me." Come to think of it, I haven't eaten any meat since I got here. Best keep my canines to my self then. Does everyone hear just have two sets of molars then? That's pretty wack. Letting go of him and stepping back, I said, "Don't let others beet you down, judge people by there actions not what they are." 

He was now looking at me with pure amazement in his eyes. "Mister Phoenix. Can I hug you." Ah. How do I say no to that. With a forced smile, and every atom of my being preparing it self, I opened my arms out and he ran into them. After he pulled away from the hug he said thanks once again and then went back to playing. That was when I realised there was two groups in the park. To the left were a group of three griffons playing by themselves (Flying Snipe being one of them), and to my right was a large group of about 15 kids all playing 'it'. Another thing to read up on, racism. That reminded me, I still have books to read. 

I made my way home without and disturbances, still hadn't ran into the main six, and made my self a quick salad. Grabbing the salad, I headed up stairs to eat and read.

After about four or so hours of reading I had finished two of the overly thick books. Apparently I can read fast now too. I now had a good idea on this worlds currency, and also a basic understanding of magic. Calling it a day, I put the books back on my bedside table and went downstairs. Deciding to find Rarity, I walked over to the door. However, as I went to open it I heard a knock from the other side. Opening the door revealed the main six along with spike. Before I could greet them or even get a word in, Pinkie marched into my house and began hanging up decorations. Rainbow followed shortly behind her and began laying food on my counter along with applejack. I then turned to Rarity and opened my mouth before I was cut off by Twilight who was standing to my left.

With a sigh, she began. "You missed the surprise party this morning, we know you avoided it." All the girls plus spike slightly frowned at that which made me feel bad. "And so Pinkie is setting up another one in your house." 	Oh now I fell like a dick. I stepped aside to let them in and quietly said, "I'm sorry." The least I could do was let them throw another party for me.

Rarity smiled slightly and spoke, "Don't worry about it Darling, I have already told the girls about your thing with large groups." 

"I am grateful" I said with a small bow of the head. They all smiled at me and then walked into the living room. By the time we were in, the decorations were already up. I then realised there was someone here I was still yet to formally greet. Tapping the pink haired woman on the shoulder, she slightly jumped and then turned around to look at me. She was hiding behind her bangs which looked absolutely adorable. 

In a very quite and fragile tone, she spoke. "Oh..um...yes?" 

Smiling at her as to not appear as threatening, I spoke. "I don't believe we have officially met, I'm Phoenix." I then put out my hand. She returned the gesture. I then raised her hand to my mouth and gave it a small peck which made her blush and the rest of the girls giggle. 

"I-It is nice to m-meet you Phoenix. I am um...Fluttershy." 

"It is nice to meet you too Fluttershy." Letting go of her hand, I spoke to everyone that was in the room. "I am truly sorry for avoiding the party, I am not one for big gatherings. Especially with people I don't know."

Applejack responded first. "Don' worry 'bout it none!" All the girls nodded in agreement.

Rainbow dash then blurted out, "Enough of the sappy talk, it's time to paaarteeeey!" Pinkie then appeared behind a mixing desk and was DJ-ing for us. The middle of the room had now somehow become a disco floor with a disco ball at the top. Twilight was dancing/talking with Pinkie by the mixing desk whilst Rarity and Fluttershy were sat on the long sofa by the door. Rainbow and Applejack were having an arm wrestle on my counter and spike was in the corner of the kitchen eating what seemed to be......gems. That's when it hit me, he must be the dragon from the show. I wander if he has any unique features like Snipe?

I began to make my way upstairs to get changed. When I was walking to the stairs Twilight gave me a worried look. Probably thought I was ditching. I turned to her and spoke. "Just getting changed." After hearing that she smiled at me and went back to dancing. I put Chastiefol in its pillow for and left it in the corner of my room. I then slipped on a new pair of jeans and a green shirt. I had been wearing my other set yesterday and they were a bit mucky after getting a hug from Snipe considering he had just fallen to the ground moments before greeting me. Once that was done I made my way down stairs to have some fun. 

Once at the bottom, I turned to my left to look at RD and AJ in the middle of an arm-wrestle. Walking over to them, I sat down next to Applejack and said, "When you're done mind if I have a try?" When I said that they both let go of each other and looked at me.

"Sure!"
"Sure!"

"Nice. You're on." My western friend moved up a seat so I could be opposite RD and I took her spot. She put her arm out and then gave me a challenging look. Returning both the gestures, I felt AJ put her hand over ours. With a short countdown, we were off. However, I did not feel any force. 

Confused, I looked up to Rainbow and spoke. "You know she finished the countdown right? You can start."

"Ha ha very funny! Now quite using magic you cheat!" I then realised that she was indeed trying her hardest to move me, even by an inch. I then also realised that I have godly strength. 

By this point, Twilight and Pinkie were now next to us and watching intently. Then Twilight spoke, "Rainbow, I hate to break it to you, but he's not using magic." Rainbow then got a shocked look on her face and then pulled her hand away from mine. 

"You mean he's just that strong!"

Replying with a smug grin, "Yup." I then looked around at the surrounding people, "Who's next?" They all rapidly shook their heads with worried expressions on. I chuckled at that which made everyone else join in to. 

We spent the rest of the night just pissing about and talking about this and that. It was nice. I got to spend some time with Spike which was neat. We began talking about random stuff, that eventually lead to this.

"You know, I met a kid earlier a lot like you, I think you'd be good friends."

Spike looked kind of surprised at that, "Really? Was he a dragon or something?"

"No actually, he was a griffon by the name of Flying Snipe." At the mention of that name, the whole room went silent, even the music somehow stopped.

With a concerned tone, Rarity spoke. "Darling, did you say.....Flying Snipe?"

"Err yeah." I looked amongst their bewildered expressions. "Am I missing something here?" 

Rainbow dash ignored the question and asked her own. "Did he try and eat ya!?" 

Oh don't tell me.... "What do you mean? He's like, what, thirteen or so?"

Twilight responded with, "But he's a griffon!" ......these people really are afraid of griffons. 

Turning to Pinkie, because she'd do just about anything I asked, I said, "Hey Pinkie, could you open your mouth and say aaah for a sec?" I began to walk over to her as I said this.

She saluted me and said, "But of course Lord Phoenix." I rolled my eyes at her antics. She then did as I said. Now in front of her, I looked in her mouth to find no canines, just another pair of molars on both rows. I then stepped back and said thank you.

Turning to look at Twilight, I spoke in a rather pissed tone. "Has Snipe ever done anything to harm you?"

She looked a bit confused at my question. "Well no but..." 

I cut her off and spoke again, "Has he ever done anything to spite you?" I was walking closer to her as I spoke.

Now seeing seeing where this was going, she answered. "Well, no..."

Cutting her off a second time, "Has he been the source or reason for any of your of your friends negative emotions?" I was now only two feet away from her.

She seemed defeated. And she was supposed to be the princess of friendship. "No"

I sighed and spoke in a not pissed but disappointed tone, "I'm not angry with you," she finally looked me in the eyes after those words, "I'm just very disappointed in you." Turning to the rest of the group, "All of you." They all looked down at that. "Do not judge a person by their heritage, but by their actions." 

They all simultaneously said, "Sorry, we won't do it again." 

I put my hands on my hips and put on a more playful tone. "And as punishment, tomorrow we're all going to go visit Snipe, and your gonna become friends." They all looked rather scared by my statement but realised there was no backing out of it. This world really does need fixing if racism is a thing. "Anyway, we don't need to stay on that topic," I swerved on one foot and looked towards Pinkie. "Hit it Pinkie!" She beamed at me and then suddenly appeared behind the mixing board, because she's Pinkie, and put the music back on.

Everyone's smiles were now back on their faces, and we partied the rest of the night away. So much so that I woke up the next morning on the single sofa in the corner of the room...with spike curled up on my lap. The events of last night soon came back to me. It was about two o'clock in the morning when we realised we'd better get some shut eye. However, everyone was too tired to move anywhere. So I used my air bending, whilst sat down at my seat, to move the girls onto the sofas. I then realised spike didn't have anywhere to sleep so fuck it, my lap it is then. He was cool with it and I think we both mutually didn't give a shit about what the others said. And so, I now sit here with spike curled up in my lap. 

Looking to my right I saw three of the girls sleeping on the sofa next to the door. Or should I say, two. Fluttershy was laying on the side closest to the door, Rarity was next to her, and on the other end a very flustered RD. She was sat looking straight ahead to a wall, red as a tomato, with her eyes bloodshot from tiredness. She slowly turned her head to look at me and didn't say anything. The reason why she was so flustered was because I certain fashionista was sleeping on her shoulder. 

I see what's happening here. Although Rainbow was the last one I expected to see it from. In a hushed voice, and with a large smirk, I spoke. "I get what's going on now."

In a shout/whisper, she whipped back at me with, "You shut up!"

Still with the same smirk. "I'm rooting for ya!" She lightly smiled at that and I gave her a thumbs up. We spent the next ten minutes sitting in silence and waiting for the others to wake up. Weirdly they all woke up at the same time, which meant a massive wave of yawns and stretches. 

Applejack was the first to speak, in a very tired voice that is. "Mornin' y'all." I replied first and everyone else soon followed. AJ soon saw that Rainbow wasn't looking to great and questioned her. "You okay there RD, you look like you've seen a ghost?" Rainbow dash just slowly nodded whilst laughing slightly to herself like a crazy person. 

Rarity then spoke. "I am terribly sorry about falling onto your shoulder. I have a tendency to move about in my sleep sometimes." Rainbow dash just slowly shook her head this time, still laughing to herself.

Before Rarity could question Rainbow Dashes odd behaviour, we heard a knock on the door. "I'll get it." I said, as I approached the door. Opening it revealed two very familiar princesses; both with pouts on there faces. "Ah, it is lovely to see you two today. How may I help?" They both just hmphed at me whilst sticking there nose up in the air and walked past me into the house.

Then Luna said, "Where was our invite?"

Celestia then spoke, "We love parties!"

"Ahhhh." Well this is a kerfuffle. "All I have to say, is that at was their fault." I was pointing at the rest of the group as I finished. 

Soon after I heard a chorus of "What!" 

Celestia then spoke up. "It is quite alright, Twilight had already invited us but we were rather busy. We were actually just here to discuss some things with you Phoenix."

I smiled at that. "What a coinkidink, I needed to discuss somethings with you." My odd language made everyone giggle. "I then turned to my other guests. "Stay or leave, I don't really mind, but just don't go in my room." 

They all responded with "Got it!" and pulled a playful salute. 

Turning to the Princesses, I spoke once again, "Shall we?" I then put out both my arms for them to hold onto like an escort. They both giggled at my attitude today and latched onto my arms. Having a stunning woman on each arm is always a plus. 

With a quick flash and a pop, we were no longer in my house.
> 6 Football!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
His living room


With a quick flash and a pop, we were no longer in my house, but instead once again in the magnificent thrown room. Once inside, the two princesses sat down on there respected seats and gestured for me to stand in front of them. Judging by the fact they brought me to the thrown room and not a more informal place I'm assuming this is going to be a more professional meeting.

Once the princesses were sat in their seats and I was stood in front of them, Celestia began. "Phoenix, we would like to discuss the recent attack on Ponyville."

That concerned me. Maybe I didn't follow some kind of procedure when getting rid of them or something. Hopefully not. "I see."

Luna was the next to speak. "We appreciate your performance when dealing with the fangs. I have to say you were quite efficient; but there were a few things that slightly concern me." I slightly tensed up at that. 

Keeping a calm and collected presence, I responded. "And what might those be?" 

Celestia answered my question. "Why did you choose to let one go?" She didn't appear to be trying to come off as threatening. More genuinely curious about my decision which helped calm my nerves. 

I responded in a professional tone. "To be honest with you it was more a bit of fun, but I also wanted their commander to know they have an unknown working against them. I've found that people fear what they know nothing of."

They both gave me understanding looks, and then Celestia asked another question that I did not expect. "I understand your reasonings. Hopefully they think twice before attacking us next time. But may I ask why you used the term.......people?"

That rubbed me the wrong way. "Do you see the dragon tribes as people?"

She seemed taken aback by my sudden confrontation. "Of course I do."

"Griffons?"

"Why wouldn't I?"

Getting to my point, "Then tell me, why are fangs not considered people?"

She was now completely shocked at how I was acting. However, before Celestia could retort Luna cut in. "I think this discussion can be had at another time. We have other matters to speak of."

Not wanting to come across as abusing their trust, I slightly bowed to the two of them and said, "Of course. I did not mean to go on a tangent." 

Celestia then spoke. "Agreed." 

Luna used her magic to summon a clipboard and pen and began looking through it before starting. "Two weeks ago we discovered a band of fangs had set up camp roughly six miles deep into the Everfree. So far we have seen seven fangs loitering the area, but there may be more. In two days time we plan on sending a small team to deal with them and shut down the base of operation. All the specifics are written down on these documents," she waved around the notepad. "However, there are a few things on here that don't quite make sense to me....." She trailed off whilst scanning over the documents again.

"So I can assume you want me to be a part of this team?"

Celestia answered me. "We don't just want you in the team; we want you leading it."

"I see." I guess that makes sense. They have already seen how I fair in battle.

Luna took her eyes off of the documents and then looked over to me. "Phoenix, can you tell me anything about these odd words on here?" She pointed to the document, "And why does the colour of there weapons matter?"

So Thunderlane hasn't filled them in yet. "I'm afraid you'll have to ask Thunderlane about that." 

She looked confused at that, but just excepted that there was a reason. "He always has a reason for everything so I'm sure there is a purpose to these funny words ." That made me smile

I then asked a question of my own. "How many members are there in this team?"

Celestia answered as Luna was still looking over the documents with a face of pure confusion. "We have notified multiple soldiers, all of which are listen on the official documents. However, you may look through them and take as many as you see fit."

Are they testing me? Why give me so much free will? I've only been around for a short while. "Thank you, that helps a considerable amount." I thought then came to mind. "By any chance, are Lieutenant Thunderlane and Sergeant Blossomforth on there." 

Luna looked up from the papers and answered. "Indeed they are."

A smile came to my face. "Wonderful. Those two will be the only ones we're taking."

They both smiled at that. Then Celestia spoke. "I am slightly surprised you willingly brought anyone with you. I pictured you as the lone wolf type."

I chuckled at that. "Oh don't get me wrong. If I could I'd do everything by my self. However, putting two kind hearted soldiers out of there job by doing it all for them doesn't sit well with me."

The moon princess giggled at my response. "How generous of you." 

"I try." 

Luna then floated the documents over to me. "Here are the specifics. Although I'm not sure what an ookerku is?"

I corrected her with a smirk. "Ukaku." Luna slightly blushed at how badly she pronounced it whilst Celestia sat there laughing. "Well if that is all then I best take my leave. I have made plans for today." Those being getting Snipe some new friends. 

Once Celestia had collected herself she spoke. "That is all. Have a nice day Phoenix."

"You too." After our short goodbye I took my leave threw the thrown room door. The guards gave me a weird look as I left but I'm assuming they are just a bit wary of me. Which I suppose they should be; that's what they're payed to do. After exiting the door I realised, I have no idea where the fuck I am. And so, I spent the next ten minutes or so walking around aimlessly. Thankfully, there was a guard that noticed me circling about and escorted me out of the castle. Man that place is massive. It would have taken me hours to find the route that I was eventually led through. There aren't even any maps anywhere. 

Now outside, I ran (and by ran I mean broke the sound barrier) to the cliff that towers over Ponyville. Quite the view I must admit. After a moment of just enjoying the high altitude. I clenched my fist and summoned Shadowfall. I then took a simple spear throwing stance and aimed for the front door of my house. Thankfully there wasn't anyone in the area for me to accidentally impale. My aim was true and I was then able to clench my fist once again and appear in front of my humble abode. 

I took the knife out of the door and then stepped inside. I was greeted by all of my previous guests, looks like they all stayed. 

"Hey there par'ner!" Applejack began, "What did the princesses want wid' ya?" 

Closing the door behind me and walking over to the kitchen, "Oh nothing much. Me and a couple others are shutting down a band of ghouls in two days."

My southern friend looked confused at that. "Ghouls?"

"That's right, you call them fangs." As I finished that sentence I grabbed an apple from the fruit bowl and took a bite. Looking up from my apple to the group, everyone one of their jaws were on the floor from my statement.

"Fangs?!"
"Fangs?!"
"Fangs?!"
"Fangs?!"
"Fangs?!"
"Fangs?!"
"Fangs?!"

The chorus was less than pleasant to my ears. I lifted my hands up and made a 'keep it down gesture'. "If at all possible I would like my ears intact when I go on the mission." They all eased up at that and dropped the booming voices.

"Sorry."
"Sorry."
"Sorry."
"Sorry."
"Sorry."
"Sorry."
"Sorry."

I sighed at how cartoony this world is. "Yes we're going to take down fangs. We'll be fine, there's supposed to only be seven."

They all looked at each other and nodded before AJ spoke. "We'll if it were anyone else ah'd be worried, but ah know what you can do." She finished with a smile and I responded in kind. That got me thinking. I began to focus on Applejacks energy to see how strong the average person actually was. However, what I found put a smile on my face.

"Thank you for the praise, but I wouldn't be surprised if you could take a couple down." It was true, she had plenty of strength. I wouldn't be surprised if she could take down two of the regular ones.

She chuckled at my remark, "Your just sayin' that." Before I could correct her she spoke again. "Well anyways, don't we have a child to befriend?" 

That brought me a small smile. "Indeed we do." 

And with that we headed out the door and made our way over to the park (but not before I slipped on some black jogging bottoms and a purple shirt). Why did I feel compelled to help this boy? I couldn't tell you. But something about this worlds morals really tick me off. We walked for a short while, chatting about anything that came up, until we came to the park. Looking around I found that Snipe was alone on one of the swings, whilst all the other kids where once again playing 'it' on the other side. I grit my teeth at the sight.

Putting on a forced smile from the situation, I walked over to Snipe and greeted him. "Hey there Snipe! Watch doin' all by yourself?" 

He looked up from the ground and his previous look of loneliness was now replaced with joy. "Oh! Hey there mister.....I mean... Phoenix! I'm just....ya know......enjoying the fresh air!"

His forced smile made my heart shatter. "Well , me and a few friends were just about to go for a game of football, wanna join?" I heard a bit of whispering coming from behind me. I could tell the others were nervous.

The blue haired boy beamed at that and responded with, "I'd love to!"

"Good to hear!" Turning to the others, "Let me introduce you." I put an arm around spike. "This here is Spike. He's the same age as you if I'm not mistaken."

Spike shook my arm off in playful annoyance and put his hand out to Snipe. "Hey there! It's nice to meet you Snipe!" The griffon returned the gesture and seemed overwhelmed with happiness. This must be new for him. Spike was probably the least nervous considering he was a dragon, who are considered to be the strongest race even if they don't eat meat. 

Applejack and Fluttershy were the next to step forward. "Hey there kiddo!" Applejack said with a large smile, "Ah'm Applejack, but you can call me AJ!" She then put her hand out and Snipe shook it. He  continued to greet everyone else. Most of them were quite nervous but after they saw Applejacks and Fluttershys 'bravery' they calmed down. Applejack seems to be a rather accepting person and Fluttershy deals with other species all the time, including carnivores. 

"Alrighty then! Now that the introductions are over, lets go play ball!" I punched the air as I said that, and everyone else cheered and responded in kind. I offered to go buy a ball but Rainbow Dash said she had one at hers so she flew to get it. Once she was back we all made our way over to the football field near the park. Now this was gonna be interesting. 


?????????? point of view
??????????


"What!" I boomed out with immense rage. 

The servant in front of me coward at my presence before spurting out his report. "Th-There has been an attack o-on the  lūteus clan. Only one of the squad of five survived."

I spoke in a ground shaking voice. "Who was the attacker?! Was it those bitches that rule Equistria?!"

He was slowly backing up as he spoke to me, "N-No sir. It was a new one. His powers were odd, and he was too powerful for them to deal with." 

Those old lūteus crack heads are lacking. They aren't as strong as they were back in the day. I calmed down and regained my composure, "I suppose right now that is their problem. Run things as they were, but don't send any more of our soldiers to Ponyville or the surrounding area."

"Yes sir." He got up from his crouching position and quickly scurried off out of the room. 

A smirk came to my face as I mumbled to myself. "So there's a new guy in town....."


Phoenix's point of view
Football field


"Pass!" I shouted, with my hand up in the air so AJ could see.

She looked over to me and shouted, "It's all yours!" as she passed the ball over. I stopped the ball under my foot and looked at the two people in my way. Twilight and Rainbow dash were now in front of me with looks of confidence on there face. I returned the look and ran straight towards them whilst dribbling the ball. 

RD shouted, "Oh no you don't!" Now rather close to them, I rolled the ball up the back of my left leg and rainbow flicked it over Rainbow.

"Hah! I just rainbowed the Rainbow!" Everyone was laughing at that (except Rainbow of course). Now the only person in my way was Fluttershy, however, I didn't feel like making a fool of her. Looking to my left I saw Snipe running on the other side of the pitch towards the goal, obviously ready to receive the ball if I needed help. "Hey Snipe!" He looked over at me as I kicked the ball over to him and smiled. Perfectly controlling the ball, he stopped it's motion and began dribbling it over to the goal. Spike was in goal and had a large smile on his face.

Closing in on his target, no one was close enough to stop him, so he readied himself and took his time to aim. After minor adjustments to his stance, he gave a swift kick to the ball aiming for the top right. His aim was true, and Spikes dive was just a bit too behind to stop it. After confirming that he had indeed scored, he began running around with his hands up in the air. Jogging towards him, I picked him up onto my shoulders and began bouncing him up and down. 

"You really showed them!" I said with a massive smile. everyone else had joined up with us at this point and were cheering for Snipe. This is a good day.

After I had put down the blue headed striker, we chatted for a bit before saying our goodbyes. We all went our separate ways, and promised each other we'd do this again some time. It's been too long since I've been able to wind down with other people.

Making my way home, I stepped inside and made my way upstairs. I grabbed a quick shower and threw on a pair of black jeans and a green tank top. That reminded me, I forgot to ask Spike about the weapon satchel. Ah well, I'll ask him next time I see him. 

I spent the rest of the day lounging about reading the books Twilight had lent me. I managed to finish all of them and planned to return them the next day. I then trained for a while once the moon had come up. I didn't get too much progress but I could control a few more kunai. I also decided to scrap my previous idea on flight and decided I'd just find an alternative at some point. Air bending myself in air whilst levitating Chastiefol was just too difficult, so I switched to just levitating my spirit spear which meant I had full control of my hands and could also participate in CQC. After that I went back to my abode and slept the night away.

After waking up from a rather dreamless sleep, I took a piss, had a shower, got changed into a pair of black jeans and purple tank top, and head downstairs. Once there, I grabbed yet another apple from the fruit bowl and sat down at the counter. What to do today? It's not like I have any plans. Sugar cube corner's always an option, and whenever I walk about something seems to pop up. However, the knocking on my door made me change my plans.

Getting up and opening it revealed Thunderlane and Blossomforth in their normal attire. "Hey, it's good to see you two. Would you like to come inside?"

The pair smiled, nodded, and took me up on my offer. "It is nice to see you too Phoenix." Blossomforth said. 

As they stepped in I closed the door behind them and then made my way over to the kitchen. "Hungry?" 

They both answered very quickly, one after the other.

"Apple."
"Croissant."

I turned back around to look at them and they both had wide smiles across there faces. I slightly chuckled at what they were getting at and said, "Thundy." Blossom instantly turned red at that and began looking down like before, whilst me and Thunderlane gave a rather loud laugh. Grabbing an apple I tossed it to Thunderlane, which he caught; I then floated a croissant over to Blossom. They said their thanks as we went and sat in the same seats as beforehand. "So, what can I do for you?" 

"We'd like to discuss tomorrows mission with you and work out a strategy, "Thunderlane began. "I also wanted to inform you that our dual will have to be cancelled. Some things have come up and I am no longer available, apologies."

Well that's a damn shame. "It's fine I understand. Maybe another time?" I said with a sly smile. 

He returned the smile and said, "Most definitely." We gave each other a slight nod before he spoke again. "So, about the plan. How are you planning on going about this?"

"Before we continue," I started, "how many ghouls do you two think you could take on individually?" 

They both seemed a bit confused by my question but answered anyway. "I could probably take on two maybe three." Thunderlane said. 

Blossom then added, "And me two, three at a large push."

They were lying. I couldn't tell you how I knew, I just did. However, if they're lying there must be a reason. So I guess I'll leave it be. "I see. Well then, I believe a full frontal assault would be our best coarse of action. I'll go in first and kill the ones that attack, whilst you two circle the perimeter and kill the ones who run."

They both looked shocked at my idea. Thunderlane questioned my reasonings. "Whilst that would usually be an effective strategy, there simple isn't enough of us to execute it. How are we supposed to prevent them from leaving the base with only two people guarding all the exits?" 

A smile came to my face once I heard what he was concerned about. "I think you mean three people." They both looked overly confused, but before they could question me I summoned Chastiefol from upstairs and too my side. Blossom slightly jumped as the spear shot down the stairs but Thunderlane did not; although he was staring at it with a lot of interest. I then began to explain the plan in full. "Now, I know you're gonna have many questions but just accept and embrace for now cause I can't be asked to explain. " Pointing to Chastiefol, "You two and Chastiefol here will be creating a triangle around the base. That should cover enough ground. Meanwhile, I'll take on anyone who decides to stay and fight."

I think at this point they have learnt not to question my abilities and just roll with it. "Sounds like a plan." Thunderlane said. 

They then said their goodbyes and left, having discussed everything he wanted to cover. Aight, what to do now. I could train but I'd rather stick with the moon. Sugar cube corners an option but I'm up and about now, and most importantly, no longer in need of a cup of coffee. 

I then remembered that I was yet to return Twilights books to her. Guess that something to do. I left all my gear at home and began making my way over to the library, books in hand. I got there in good time, and remembered to knock this time. I soon heard a familiar voice from inside. "Come in." I opened the door and stepped inside.

"Hey there book worm! Just dropping off those books I borrowed."

When she heard my voice she looked over her shoulder at me. She couldn't turn around as she was on a ladder up against a book shelf sorting out books. "Hey there Phoenix! I'll be with you in a sec!" I then saw what she was sorting out. Someone had taken a book out and toppled all the other ones in the row over in the process. Walking over to the mess, I levitated all the books back into place. Without looking at Twilight, I finished up and then made my way over to the sofa I sat at the previous time. 

"Jeez. People need to respect books more." I was sat down and looking to the floor whilst scratching my head as I said this. I was expecting to hear a response from the librarian, but got nothing. Lifting my head up, I looked over to Twi to see her cheeks were slightly red, and she was giving me a rather shocked/impressed look. "Fever?"

Her face went even more red at that as she replied. "Oh...um....something like that." She turned her head and began making her way down the ladder as she finished. Did I just make her............... No, I couldn't have. Once she was down, she walked over and took a seat opposite me. "You said you had my books?" 

Picking them up from beside me and handing them to her, "Here you go. They were quite useful, thanks."

She smiled at my thanks. "No thanks needed. Is there anything else I can help you with?" 

Well, I do have time so fuck it. "Are you free right now?" 

She seemed a bit taken aback by my question which was odd. "Um, yes, I do have some spare time today."

"Great, now how would you feel about me teaching you a language from my world; something only me and you can understand?"

Her previous face of shock turned to one of pure excitement. Picture a weeb finding out SAO was coming out in real life levels of excitement. "Do you really mean it!?" 

"I do."

She was now slightly bouncing up an down on her seat. "Can I hug you!?" She blurted out. 

"If you wish." 

Less then a nano-second had passed since I had finished my sentence before she was on my lap with her arms rapped around me. "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"

I was softly smiling at her enthusiasm. I was also used to touching others now and being touched. Although, I wasn't at the point where I was enjoying it. "Alright calm down. I need my neck in working condition for tomorrows mission." She nervously laughed and then apologised. Climbing off of me, she sat directly next to me now and was waiting for me to begin teaching her. "Can I borrow a couple notebooks?" 

She nodded and used her magic to have two basic school notebooks appear in her hands. "Will these do?"

"They'll be just fine." Taking the books out of her hand, I grabbed a couple pencils from the table in front of us and handed one to Twilight. "Here, right 'Japanese 1' on the front along with your name."

I spent most of the rest of the day going over basic hiragana with her and taught her how to say some simple fraises. After we had called it a day, we shared a quick hug, and I took my leave. 

The sun was down now. Meaning the ever dazzling moon was shining bright in the sky. I had come to realise that it is always full moon here in Equis. Which doesn't make any logical sense, but I have found questioning the ways of this world leads you nowhere. Once I had made my way home, I got changed into nothing but a pair of black jogging bottoms. I feel less stuffy when training with nothing but trousers. After that, I grabbed Chastiefol and Shadowfall, and made my way back outside. 

Taking my normal stance, I once again launched my dagger towards the big ball of rock. Once I heard it land, yes I do mean heard, I clenched my fist, and was no longer in the humble town of Ponyville. What was different this time though, was that I was not alone. But instead, standing in front of a rather ticked off princess of the night.

She was wearing a half annoyed/half playful look. "May I enquire as to what you have been doing on my precious moon?" 

The only word my brain could think of in reply was, "Fuck."
> 7 Worrying information
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenixs point of view
On the fucking moon!


The only word my brain could think of in reply was, "Fuck."

She did not appreciate my response. "I'll ask again," Slowly raising her voice, but still in a playful way. "What, are you, doing, on my, moon." She gradually made her way towards me as she spoke, which led to her being inched from my face....well, chest. She was rather small.

Looking down at her with a nervous chuckle. "Heh, I got lost?" I said with my best winning smile. All I got in return was the 'woman look'. You all know what I mean. The 'Oh really!' look that everyone dreads. I sighed and came out with the truth. I'm an idiot but pissing off royalty isn't really my cup of tea. "I was doing a bit of training where I thought I could get some privacy. I was unaware you actually owned the moon." 

She looked me up and down in a questioning fashion before replying. "That is a fairly likely story." She kept her eyes on me and went silent for a moment. "I suppose you can continue, seeming as no harm seems to have come to my moon. However, may I enquire as to how you got up here?" 

I figured revealing my hand to someone that doesn't completely trust me yet was a bad idea. I put on a smirk as to not come across as too serious and responded with, "That is for me to know and for you to never find out!"

My response got a giggle out of her. "You are a strange one Mr. Elvenkind."

"Why thank you!"

The princess of the night then took her leave and left me to train. Again, no real progress. Just a few more kunais and a better understanding of my body's capabilities. A lot of todays training was just running. I needed to test my speed out properly. For the results, lets just say I can run around this moon in under 5 seconds. I know, I know I'm amazing. No need to applaud.

Once I had finished I returned home to find quite the scene. Opening the door revealed a rather panicked looking Twilight rushing around the house, probably looking for something. She didn't notice me at first, so I just observed her odd behaviour from the doorway. She then began to murmur. "He couldn't have just disappeared! Maybe a note?! We did everything right! The princesses did say he was a man of high stature but did our town really bore him so?!"

This prompted me to worry. What did the princesses tell her? And why did she think I would just up and leave? 

I quickly shut down her little breakdown by walking up behind her and rapping my arms over her shoulders, as she was too small to hug properly whilst standing up. "Hey there," I said in a calming tone. "now what would make you think I would just up and leave? And more importantly, why are you so worried about it?" 

I felt her sag in my arms in relief. She came out of my embrace, turned around, and gave me the most heartfelt hug I had ever felt. "Oh thank god!" She practically shouted into my chest. "When you didn't answer the door, everyone got worried since you never mentioned having plans, no one else knew where you were!" She was now balling into my bare chest which wasn't fun.

Still in my calming tone, and now rubbing her back because people feel comforted when you do that for some reason. "I get all that. But why the tears?" I decided to make light of the situation. "Am I really just that nice to look at?"

She giggled through the sobs and spoke. "You can't just get to know us all, make us hate spending time without you, and then just vanish. Everyone's heart broken!" The people of this world truly have some attachment issues. I've been here less than a week and they can't be apart from me. I'm humbled but still. 

I began to rub the back of her head a little and held her tighter. "I don't know why you'd think I'd get bored, and I'm not sure what Celestia and Luna told you, but I'm not going anywhere anytime soon." 

She lifted her tear covered face off of my chest and looked up at me with hope in her eyes. "You mean it?!" I nodded. "Pinkie Promise?!" 

I nodded again. "Pinkie Promise." She then went back to balling into my chest. This was concerning. What did the princesses say? What did she mean by 'man of high stature'. It didn't make any sense. 

We stayed stood still for god knows how long, which I hated. If you haven't guessed hugs aren't really my forte. She eventually looked up at me, cleared the tears from her eyes, and said something I'll never forget. "Don't you dare change." I took it at face value, but something was off. As if she knew something I didn't. I gave her a nod as my answer before changing the subject.

"So, seeming as though you knocked on my door I'm assuming you needed something." 

A smile came to her face as she remembered what she wished to ask. "Ah yes, me and a few others were planning on going for a drink. We wanted to know if you felt like joining!" 

I gave her a soft smile and gave my answer. "Sorry Twi, but I make it a rule not to drink before a mission. I'll make up for it at some point though."

She seemed a little down for a sec, but then went back to her usual happy demeanour. "That's understandable. I'll hold you to it though!" I gave an over dramatic sigh as if dreading what was to come. The librarian chuckled at my reaction before checking her watch. "It looks like I best be off. I need to go inform everyone that you came back." Why did she word it like that? "Thanks again for comforting me and everything.........and sorry about your chest......." A slight blush appeared on her face. 

I put my hand on her head and shook it a bit. "Don't worry about it! I was gonna have a shower anyway." Her blush deepened when I patted her head, which made me chuckle even further. "Aight! I'm gonna go grab said shower and then head to bed. I'll see you tomorrow." I said, rapping my arms around her. 

I felt her arms curl up my back as she spoke. "Cya then." I released the hug so I could face her and boobed her on the nose. She giggled and blushed at my playfulness, before taking her leave.

Once she had left the premises, my face instantly dropped. "There's something I'm not being told......."

I decided to dwell on it later, it's been a while since I have been sent a mission. But back when I was on earth I didn't exactly have the speed and power of a comet. I was still top of my class though.

I took a very needed shower, put on nothing but jogging bottoms, and fell victim to the land of dreams.

I woke up in my own time and wasn't interrupted by someone else. I decided a pair of purple bottoms were all that was necessary. I grabbed a shower before I got changed and then made my way downstairs. Three guesses as to what I picked out from the fruit bowl, but the first two don't count. I took a bite out of the red ball of natural sugars and began preparing myself. 

I equipped Chastiefol onto my back and decided upon leaving Shadowfall at home. Still need to get that satchel from Spike. I then meditated for half an hour seeming as though the sun was only jut rising. Once I had cleared my head of all thoughts unrelated to the mission, I began making my way over to the barracks. 

To my luck, just the man I was looking for was also making his way there. "Lieutenant!" I shouted, jogging towards him with my hand up to get his attention.

He turned around and smiled once he saw me. "Phoenix. Your up nice and early."

"Well you know, rather get this raid thingy over and done with."

He quirked a brow at me as we both made our way over to the barracks. "I'm afraid I don't understand?"

It was my turn to quirk a brow at him now. "The raid. It is today if I'm not mistaken?"

He stopped in his tracks which caused me to do the same. "I believe you are mistaken. The mission will take place tonight."

"Why not now?" 

He gave me the 'are you an idiot' look, which I did not appreciate. "What would we gain from attacking them in broad daylight? I thought you of all people would understand the boon that is the element of surprise."

That kind of rubbed me the wrong way, but I realised where he was is coming from. However, I am not stupid. "I thought you of all people would realise that they can see in the dark. Ever wandered how they fair so well in combat when it's pitch black? It's because to them it's broad daylight."

His shocked expression was quite the spectacle. "Truly?"

I began walking again as I answered. "Indeed." He caught up to me, now standing at my side, but did not say a word for a while.

We walked for another five minutes or soo before he questioned me again. "How is it you know so much about fang analogy?"

A slight smile came to my face as I replied. "Experience." 

Once we had arrived, he lead me to his office where we found Blossomforth sat on his desk. 

When she saw us arrive she hopped of the desk and greeted us. "Hey you two! How's it going?"

Shrugging my shoulders. "Can't complain." 

Thunderlane walked past us and sat at his desk. "Sleep hasn't come to me easy but I'm doing alright. You?"

Blossom smiled and pulled a playful salute. "I'm doing just fine sir!"  

The sergeant went and took her spot on top of the desk, and I leaned against a locker to the right of the room. "So," Thunderlane began, "I never asked you, what brings you here?"

"Honestly I assumed we were starting the mission first thing in the morning."

Blossomforth cut in before Thunderlane could reply. "Why would we attack in broa-"

I cut her off. "Been there done that. We've already established that they can see just fine in the dark."

Before Blossom cold respond to my claim the Lieutenant spoke. "Do you suggest we complete the mission now?" I nodded. He then turned to Blossom. "Get your gear on, we leave in ten." Blossom went to complain but the look Thunderlane gave her motioned against it. He turned his attention back to me, "I suggest you get your gear on as well."

"Already have." I said, gesturing to my attire. Or lack there of. 

He gave me a questioning look but just accepted it. "Each to their own I guess." He then began making his way out of the room. I followed him to the armoury were he began to get suited up. He was now clad in black armour. It was your typical spartan set but covered his arms and waist, making him heavier. However, I do know of basic weight changing spells so I'm sure they way the same as any normal set. 

Once he was ready, we met up with Blossom outside the building and made our way to the bridge. Once we reached the forest border. We stopped and prepared our self for the task. And with a deep breath, we were off.

The journey through the god forsaken place was short. Thankfully, my companions had enough stamina to run there and still be in fighting form. I had to slow down a considerable amount so they could keep up, but they don't need to know that. Once we were within five hundred meters, we took cover behind some shrubbery. Due to my time in the military, that being the majority of my life, I knew the hand signs for this specific operation as I had done it multiple timed in the past. Let's just hope they use the same hand sings.

I made the gestures and explained everyone's roles purely with my hands. Which left the other two shell shocked, but they nodded none the less. Although I did have to put a finger under Blossoms mouth and close it (which she didn't realise). 

And on the count of five, we made our move. Thunderlane ran off to the left of the camp and Blossom joined him about a minute later to allow enough distance. The full plan was to start off with a wide circle, and slowly close the gap as I fought in the centre. After another minute passed, I sent out Chastiefol to finish the circle. I then sat, waiting for the lieutenant to complete a full circle around the target. Not long after sending my spirit spear, he ran past with a small nod, which told me they were unspotted. That's when I made my move.

Dashing towards the base of operation, I began taking in it's features. It honestly reminded me of a classic camping site for school kids. With some minor differences of course. Those being the racks of weapons ranging from wee daggers to swords the size of a teen. -I suspect they took them from unknowing travellers-, body bags with red fluids leaking out, the odd severed limb here and there, and a little girl being slow roasted on top a campfire. The site brought me to knew levels of rage. 

Using my breakneck speed, I was already at the fire, and had already put it out with fire bending. This just turned into a whole knew situation. I wasn't going to 'shut down' the ghouls. I was gonna slaughter them. 

I untied the girl and placed her on the ground. I then helped her take the gag out of her mouth and kneeled down in front of her. All she had on was a torn up pillow case. Her long blond hair was covered in blood and was rather crusty. Her eyes, bright green and filled with tears.

She was silent the entire time, her eyes bloodshot as she silently cried. She hugged her shaking self and stared at the ground, or from any one else's point of view whatever was behind it. I began to get the feeling she had been through more than I had seen. 

After the thought hit my mind, I cracked and joined her in silent tears. I was now hugging her to no end and whispering any words of comfort I could muster as she covered my shoulder in phlegm and tears. She tensed up at first, but soon realised I was a friend. We stayed like that for a good minute before I released her. I looked her in the eyes and gave the best reshoring smile I could at the time. "What's your name sweet peep?" She didn't answer, I don't think she had the capacity to speak right now. "Don't worry, you're safe now, no one's gonna hurt you while I'm around." I pulled her into another hug, partly to comfort her, but mainly so she couldn't bare witness to the the rivers of tears I was letting out. 

Letting go and standing up, I took her hand in my own and looked around for one of my team mates. After spotting Blossom running in the distance, I used my levitation to stop her and shoot her over to us. She had a very scared and confused look on her face as I placed her on the ground, and me not saying anything at first didn't answer her unasked question. I spoke in a dark and sinister tone. "Get this girl somewhere safe." Her eyes widened as she looked at the girl. The burn marks all over her arms and torso, and the campfire and stick to her left were all she needed as motivation to pull the girl into a warm embrace. After a quick nod to me, she flew off with the poor child in her arms.

I didn't move a muscle for a while. Calming down to a level at which I could think wasn't easy, and by the time I had finished seven ghouls were circled around me. Thinking back I could have easily sensed where they were before hand but like I said, my thoughts weren't and still aren't very rationalised. I looked up and pivoted on my foot to scan the area. The seven scum bags that surrounded me seemed to be the only ones here. I was going to call over the lieutenant to tell him, but that would mean I'd have to share the fun with him. 

Going into this mission I was looking for an epic battle. But fuck that. 

In mere seconds, they had all been penetrated by earth spikes through every hole in there body. But my precision allowed me to narrowly miss anything vital. The muffled screams of my victims were like music to my ears as I slowly walked in front of them, spitting at there faces as I went. Once I felt satisfied with there suffering, I used my air bending to create enough force to twist all of there necks at the same time. God the sound was to die for, and given my mood, it was even better. 

Putting the spikes back into the ground, I was left standing amongst dead bodies, just waiting to be eaten by some random ass animal. I stood still for a while, basking in the smell of fresh blood, before I heard the faint sound of wings beating heading my way. Looking up, I saw Thunderlane land and make his way towards me, eyeing the corpses as he walked. Once he was done admiring my work he spoke in a questioning tone. "How did you-"

Cutting him off, I shook my head and quietly said, "No." Thankfully he picked up on my mental state and left it at that. 

He looked over at the corpses and spoke. "Someone will come by and dispose of them, we can take our leave now." Without saying a word, I sprinted back to Ponyville, meaning I got there instantly with my rage and adrenaline boosting my speed. 

Once home, I opened the door to find the main six and spike inside, chatting about this and that. However, I was in no mood for social interaction. 

Rarity began to greet me, "Hey there Phoenix! We were just-" Only to be cut off from the sound of  china smashing from the kitchen. Causing my unexpected, but welcome, guests to jump. The cause was from me throwing Shadowfall into a decorative plate hung up on a wall. Thankfully they got the memo and allowed me to storm up to my room without any further interruptions.

Now in my room, I put Chastiefol into its pillow form dropped it on my bed before stripping down and jumping in the shower. 

I began to let all of my earlier locked up thoughts into the forefront of my mind. Is this world just as twisted as the hell hole that was earth? This place really did need saving. I can't do this. Not again. Please god not again! They're just kids!! I can't save them all!! "I can't make a decision like that again!!!"

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

I don't remember much about what happened after my shout, but I awoke in my bed, with a group of girls, plus a small boy, surrounding me, with worried expressions plastered onto their faces. After I had fluttered my eyes open, I looked at my friends and decided to play dumb. "Hey guys. Anyone know how I got in this bed?" However, my chipper tone was not enough to fool anyone. In a matter of nano-seconds, I was being hugged form all seven of the cuddly bastards. We stayed like that for a short while, but they eventually let me go and went back to giving me worried looks.

Now wearing a worried smile instead, Applejack began. "You gonna tell us why we found ya on the shower floor with tears in yer' eyes? Or we gonna call it a one off?"

I gave her a small smile and said, "One off. Today wasn't easy. And you guys don't need to know." All I got in response was a load of sad smiles and another group hug. 

AJ regained her up tone and addressed everyone. "Ah think we need ta let Phoenix here get changed, Ah'm sure he's had a long day." That was when I realised I was but naked under the covers I was under. I blushed at the thought of them taking me here, and so did everyone else, minus Rarity, RD and Spike. 

"That's a good idea." They all left after AJ's suggestion, but before Twilight went through the door she mouthed something to me. 'We're going to have a talk.' In response, I gave her a sad smile and shook my head. This garnered a worried look from the librarian. Gesturing for her to come closer, she did so and sat on the side of my bed. 

I sat myself up and began. "I'm fine Twi. Just been a while since I've been on a mission." I said with my best winning smile. She had tears in her eyes at this point. 

Pulling me into a hug, she spoke softly into my ear. "If you say so." She released me from her grasp and I patted her on the head, earning me a smile just before she left. 

I sensed that I was now the only one in the building, and got up to get changed. I decided to push earliers thoughts behind me, and push forward. Looking out the window, I saw the moon was out, meaning I had been out cold for quite some time. Which means it's training time! Honestly one of the best parts of the day. I literally get to piss around with super powers in a place where no one can find me, and I can't disrupt anything. 

I was feeling lazy so I sat crossed legged on Chastiefol as I floated it downstairs. The girls had been nice enough to clear up the mess in the kitchen so I didn't need to worry about that. Although I didn't know where they had left Shadowfall, so I just clenched my fist and poof, it was there. 

I did the usual stuff, you know the drill by now, before heading back home once more. Took a shower, had a piss, and fell asleep

I woke up to the sound of someone knocking at my door. Internally groaning, I got up and forced myself downstairs. I didn't really see the need for a shirt so I thought fuck it, pyjamas it is then! Once I was downstairs, I floated an apple to me as I walked over to the door. Opening the door revealed the Sergeant, the Lieutenant and a small girl. But before I could get a word in, the small child ran into my legs and gave me the best hug she could. That's when it hit me. This was the girl from yesterday. I couldn't tell at first considering she's now wearing a cute pink top with denim dungarees. Upon realising this, I patted her on the head before kneeling down and giving her a proper hug.

Still embracing the child, I asked the commanders a question. "Have you located her family?" The sad expressions and the slow shake of their heads was all I needed to know. 

That's when I decided. No more shits and giggles. I am fixing this world, no matter the cost.

Pushing away from the hug, I looked the girl in the eyes before booping her on the nose. I hoped for laughter, but she didn't crack a smile. She just looked a bit confused by the gesture. Putting on my biggest smile, "Anyway, I never got your name sweet peep?"

Blossom went to respond for her, "We haven't managed to get her to-"

But the girl cut her off. "M-My name is....um....Rikka. Rikka Floral." 

The other two seemed shocked at the revelation, which told me she hadn't talked much, or even at all. Putting my hand out and still keeping a large smile, "It's nice to meet you Rikka. I'm Phoenix Elvenkind. But you can call me Pho Pho!" Thought I'd steal Pinkies nickname. Although I did got some odd looks from my companions. Rikka took my hand and shook it, almost bewildered at the name I gave her.

"Well," Thunderlane began. "it's a shame we have to cut this short but your presence is requested in Canterlot." I shot him a look which he got the full meaning of. "The princesses have offered to take the child into there personal care until we find a more suitable home environment. The orphanages aren't exactly the safest places." My smile returned from this new info, and it gave me the confidence I needed to let go of Rikka. I then stood up (still holding the tiny hand) and nodded to Thunderlane. He then continued again, but this time with a knowing smile. "We deemed it rather unnecessary to provide you a chariot, considering a walk on the moon is commonplace for you." I returned his expression from the remark, and then proceeded to kneel back down to face Rikka. 

"I gotta go sweet peep. But I promise I'll be sure to visit ASAP!" My over exertion put a small smile on her face, I then handed her back to Blossom. Thankfully she had also warmed up to her and was quite happy to oblige. 

"Well, it's about time we head off. Hope to see you around Phoenix." Thunderlane said. I gave him a nod and a smile.

Blossom then spoke. "Cya Phoenix!" 

However, before I could respond, we heard a small voice come from next to the Sergeant. "Bye." 

All of our collected faces went from being shocked, to a wide smile as we looked at each other, knowing we did good.
> 8  (R) I fucked up
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
Outside his house


All of our collected faces went from being shocked, to a wide smile as we looked at each other, knowing we did good.

After there goodbyes, I headed back through the door and got on with my usual morning routine. After a quick shower I decided to try on my favourite outfit seeming as though this was a meeting with the princesses. Shaw, it looked a bit wacky, but I liked it all the same. Now clad in my multicolour shirt, professional trousers, and spectacular jacket, I began to make my way over to Canterlot. That meaning I threw Shadowfall and got there without a hitch. Man this blink dagger is a god send! Before anything else, I threw Shadowfall back at my house so I could get home easily. I then made my way around the winding halls towards the thrown room, but was cut short by a rather handsome looking man. 

I walked round a corner whilst staying close to the wall out of habit, leading me to bump into someone as I turned. We collided, but to my surprise neither of us were even close to falling over, which told me he had quite the build. 

He spoke before I could apologies. "Oh, apologies sir. I should have been paying more attention." Taking in his features, I saw that he had quite the head of hair. It was blue with a light blue stripe running down it; it passed just under his neck, giving him a fairly laid back kind of vibe. His eyes were also blond, and youth sparkled in them. He was wearing a red army style jacket with gold gold collar and cuffs. It looked to be a uniform of sorts, but what really stood out was the badges he was wearing. 

On his left breast was three badges. The first one depicted what seemed to be a shield. It was blue with a pink six-pointed star in the middle. The second was gold and was shaped to be a unicorn of sorts. Nothing else stood out about it but it obviously meant something rather important. The third was a classic head of command badge, used in the USA. 





It struck me as odd seeming as though everyone here seems to speak English, but I wasn't going to question it. It was also odd that the people of this era used modern day terms like the hand signs, and the badges. Frociesta's pretty lazy if ya ask me.

I finally responded to his apology, "No worries, it was also my fault. And anyway, what's the head of the guard doing apologising to some lowly noble?" I asked, rhetorically. 

He chuckled a bit at my response, before answering. "I'd like to think I'm not your average commander." He then put out his hand. "It is nice to finally meet you Sir Elvenkind. I am Shining Armor, leader of the royal guard and proud member of the Shadow Stars!" He said, using his free hand to put on a playful salute.

I shook his hand firmly, which he smirked at, and spoke. "It is nice to meet you Sir Armor. But may I inquire as to how you know my name? And also, what are the Shadow Stars?"

"As for your name, the princesses told me about you. As for the shadow stars-" Before he finished, he shot me a smile. Then with a quick pop, I was once again in the thrown room. Fuck magic!!!

I turned around to face the Princesses and spoke, "Could you please stop doing that?"

That garnered a giggle from the two of them before Luna spoke. "Where's the fun in that?" 

I grumbled a dew inaudible slurs under my breath before speaking. "Anyways, what did you want?"

Celestia answered my question. "We do not want anything, we simply wished to congratulate you on your performance yesterday."

Deciding to be a smart ass. "Well now you have. So is there anything else?" 

Luna chimed in with a sarcastic tone. "Ha ha."

Celestia ignored my little remark and carried on. "My sister and I would like to give you a small gift for your effort."

That got me interested. "Go on...."

"How would you feel about becoming a Shadow Star!" She said in a overly joyous tone with her hands above her head. 

"No" I simply replied, with no small frown on my face. I already new it was gonna be some sketchy shit. I've seen asterisk war, I need no further prompting to know that Shadow Stars are bad news.

The princesses sighed at my answer. "Not even going to ask what it means?" I shook my head. "Very well then. Just know the offer stands." I'm not going to join some random ass cult without a reason to; and quite frankly the name 'shadow stars' doesn't scream fun and rainbows. 

But still. Something was off. No annoyance? I refuse to believe they are not bothered by me turning down such a generous offer. A thought then hit me. 

I whispered under my breath, "Mind reading." and delved into there heads. However what I heard was odd. They appeared to be having a conversation. 

I see your concern sister, but you must remember that he did not take the offer at first either. He will come around in time.

I see your point sister, but you know what happened to him! We mustn't let history replay himself!

It was odd hearing Celestia shout without moving her lips, and with a small smile on. Who was 'he'? I'm not a fan of being left in the dark, but asking the questions now would show the princesses one of my abilities. But no worries, I have just the idea to get the info I need.

"Well if there is nothing else, I shall take my leave." I said with a small smile. 

Luna was the one to respond . "If you shall not take us up on our offer then that will be all. Have a wonderful day Phoenix."

"You too you two."

I clenched my fist and returned home. 

Things were really off. And I needed answers. However, that would have to wait. 

I suddenly felt a small bump on my side, followed by the sound of a certain rainbow haired woman laughing. I looked down at my right to find Snipe on the ground on all fours, rubbing the front of his head. He muttered under his breath, "What the-" He then looked at me and my confused expression met his. "Oh! Phoenix, I'm sorry about that. I swear I didn't see you there." His statement wasn't to reassure me it was an accident, but merely a statement.

I slightly chuckled at him as I put out my hand to help him up. "No worries kid, I'd be very surprised if you did see me quick enough to move." When he stood up, I noticed he was topless. But what really caught my attention was the large wings sprouting from his back. They were quite the spectacle, with quite the length. When he was up, he stretched his wings out and then retract them again, probably making sure they were fine after the crash. At length, they were around two meters to each side, with brown feathers slowly turning white towards the ends. "So what were you doing anyway?"

At that point, Rainbow had caught up to us from afar. She spoke as she walked the last stretch towards us. "I was teaching Snipe how to fly!"

Huh. Figured they could do it from birth. "Didn't you say at the party that pegasus, dragons and griffons were taught to fly at a young age?" We had had this conversation before, when I asked her how difficult it is to fly. 

"I did say that. But Snipe wasn't taught in his infant years." She took a more sombre tone as she finished.

Not wanting to drag out the awkward silence, I asked another question. "Isn't it a bit difficult to teach him, you don't even need to beet your wings?"

She sighed in understanding. "You're right, it is difficult. I can't help him with gaining height, but gliding has the same principles!" 

That explains why he couldn't stoop. "I see. Well, keep up the good work you two. I need to rest, and think about things."

"Ok, fair enough dude. Stay cool!" She said, as I returned the fist bump she offered.

"Cya around." I then turned to the Snipe and offered a fist bump of my own. "Have a good one little man." He seemed disappointed about not being able to talk much, but he returned the bro fist and then said his goodbyes. 

Now left to my own devices, I walked into my house and made my way upstairs. Taking off my spectacular garments, I threw on some jogging bottoms and fucked the shirt. I then proceeded to use my earth bending to create a small desk by one of the walls. It helped that a lot of the building was made of marble. Right now I wasn't really giving any shits and so I just launched my note book and ability book off my bedside table and onto the newly formed desk with my air bending. Summoning Chastiefols pillow form to my feet, I sat crossed legged on it before raising it to use a seat. 

I spent the next hour or so contemplating what I had been told and the information I had received. I came to the conclusion that I wasn't the first person to stumble into their land, judging by the conversation the princesses were having. This other........person.........something bad happened to him..........and that thing may happen to me....... 

I was beginning to trust the people in my life less and less now, and my confusion grew the more I thought about it. My paranoia was starting to develop again, and I found my self questioning all my previous encounters. I began losing my thoughts, and every bad outcome flew through my mind. Pessimism is my greatest strength, but right now it's not doing me any favours. 

However, before I could drive my self to insanity. I heard a familiar page turning from right in front of me. I probably should have been more exited then I was, but I was in no mental state to be cheered. I lifted my head off of my hands and looked towards the book. Once it had done flipping, I pulled the book towards me and looked through the pages. 

As always, everything was as it seemed, except the new title. "Crystal gem." I read out loud.

And can you guess what happened next?

The information flooded into my head as usual, but what was different, was the weird sensation at the bottom of the back of my neck. It confused me for a moment, but I soon realised what it was. 

Standing up, I reached for the back of my neck. My assumption was correct. I had a crystal gem. I quickly made my way over to the mirror in my bathroom and floated over a hand mirror behind me to have a look at my newest feature. It was what you would expect for a gem, but instead of rose, it appeared to be purple. It was about the size of a baseball in diameter, and had 12 sides to it. It looked a tiny bit odd to be honest but I'm glad Frociesta put my colour scheme into consideration.

After admiring the shiny thing, I decided I should actually see what it did. For some reason, this time I got the information on how to summon it, not what it was. 

I slightly tensed my upper back and summand my weapon. But what I didn't expect was a bow. 



(Picture this but purple)


I mean, it was cool and all, but bows weren't really my style, never have been. Deciding to play around later, I go rid of the bow and began getting changed. I threw on some black jeans and a green shirt and made my way downstairs. Then, with an apple in hand, I went to go do anything that popped up. 

However, nothing popped up. So I made my way home once again after about an hour of wondering. Now, I'm not a drug addict, and I never was, but man would some weed be useful right about now. So with nothing else to do, I figured some light hunting would do me some good soon as I can't buy meet here. 

I ran about five miles into the Everfree before deciding I was far enough away. Taking out my newest weapon, I laid down behind a rock with my bow placed horizontally on it, waiting for any pray that dared walk in my line of site. After a few minutes of waiting, what appeared to be a brown bear waltzed over to where I was aiming. I lined up my shot and released, firing a bolt of green lightning. I was expecting the energy to be released in the form of arrows, I've played enough fantasy games to know what it means when a bow doesn't have a bow string; however, I wasn't expecting my target to explode on impact. Should have seen it coming to be fair. Frociesta is basically just taking a level one character and maxing it out.

After a bit of experimentation with the bow, I decided it wasn't really for me. Bows are cool and all, but I'm more one for being up in the action. And so, I took a different approach, and just snapped the necks of anything that moved. I got really into it after a while and spent the next couple hours depleting the forests population. I made sure to only kill the ones that looked like predators hoping that Fluttershy would be less mad, but I was sorely mistaken.

After killing my seventy sixth manticore, I heard a small gasp from my left. The owner of the gasp seemed to be a familiar pink haired animal caretaker, one that probably wasn't very happy with me. 

After she wiped away the tears she had running down from her face, she made her way towards me.

In a calming voice, "Look, Fluttershy. I can ex-" A loud slap sound interrupted me, but I did not move. Sadly for the girl, her plan backfired. 

As she lowered her hand from my face, she looked at it in utter horror, before screeching in pain. 

Thinking quickly, I shot Chastiefol over in its spear form before chanting, "Sprit Spear Chastiefol, eighth configuration!"

Focusing the pollen garden around her right hand, I healed it rather quickly due to how precisely I aimed the healing effects. After a few seconds of healing, she looked at her hand in amazement, shook it a about a bit, and then slapped me again. Then in turn, squealing again. 

We repeated that process a few more times before I finally grew bored. 

I gave her a blank stare and spoke in an annoyed tone, "You done?" 

She wiped away another wave of tears before murmuring something barely audible. "You're a monster."

With a grin that probably shouldn't have been there, I replied. "Oh I am fully aware."
> 9 Lord Contarmon
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
Somewhere in the Everfree


With a grin that probably shouldn't have been there, I replied. "Oh I am fully aware."

"How could you."

I was going to fuck with her and explain how I killed them without skipping any details, but I felt like being an okay person today. "If someone suddenly asked you to stop eating your favourite food, would you?" 

"Huh?"

"You know what I said."

Slightly confused as to what I was getting at. "Of course not, I can eat what I want. Unless of course it was inconveniencing someone else."

Just the answer I was expecting! "So why should I stop eating my favourite food?" I gestured to the manticore as I finished. Sure I wasn't going to eat all seventy six of them but she didn't need to know that, and I'm certainly not telling one of the princesses supposed students that I kill for fun.

Focusing back onto the situation at hand led me to find that Fluttershy had taken two steps back and was now cowering in fear. "Y-You, You eat them?!" I'd call it a shout in her case but it was still barely audible.

Deciding to take the situation a bit more seriously, I slowly shuffled my way towards her with my hands out in a 'I'm not gonna hurt you' kinda way. "Look, meat is a key part of my diet, and I'd probably die without it." Now I wouldn't, but I sure would back in my world. Apparently there was a time when humans didn't require meat, and could live as a vegetarian, but because of how heavily they relied on it for protein their bodies quickly evolved; this in turn made it a basic necessity.

"H-Have you ever eaten a-a a human?" She said quietly, slowly backing away. 

I took a step forward still trying to come off as peaceful as possible. This was fun at first but thinking about it, I really don't need this in my life right now. Becoming an outcast in a world I only just entered wouldn't be the best for survival. Especially considering I'm known around town as 'that guy that hurt Rarity'. "I wouldn't dream of it."

"S-So, that's why you wanted to help Snipe; because you're also an omnivore?" She stopped backing away.

I decided to tell the truth rather than just agreeing. "No, it's not. I helped him because you guys were being nothing short of racist." 

She winced at the word, probably because she knew it was true. "I see..."

I took another step forward, now only about two meters away from her. "So, are you okay? Are we okay?" 

She looked me in the eyes for the first time since 'the big reveal' and spoke in a less scared tone then before, which was reassuring. "Just please order it next time..... and don't....you know..........this." She finished by gesturing to the chunks of manticore around the area. 

"You got it." I said with a smile. Well that could have gone worse. "Could you not tell the others though?" The bobbing of her head was all I got as an answer. "Thank you."

The two of us walked backed to Ponyville afterwards, which took a while. We spoke about this and that and just basic story telling. I apologised for the hydra incident and she accepted my apology. She said she was out looking for herbs for her animals at the time, and just so happened to find me. I then asked her why she was in the Everfree now. Apparently she went to pick berries or something, but it was an obvious lie. The great part about living in a goody toe shoes world like this is that everyone is terrible at lying, and will just believe anything you say is true because they just trust that you're a good person. I'm not sure why she was lying, but it really isn't any of my business.

Once we got to Ponyville I walked her home. She lived on the opposite side of town to me, which meant we didn't get to speak much. I usually see the others out and about a lot, but I haven't seen much of Fluttershy. With that being said, it was nice to find out what kind of person she actually was. If I had to describe her anyway, she came off as the type of person you love as a sister and want to protect, but she isn't even your sister and she's way to shy to have any fun with. Man I really need to find some male friends. One's that I can get drunk with, record what they do, and use it as blackmail for the rest of their lives; what real friends do.

By the time I got home it was about the time again, and so I grabbed my gear, threw a dagger hundreds of miles, and got to training. 

Same progress as usual, better handle on my abilities and all that jazz, but what intrigued me was how terrible I was with a bow. I thought about whilst training almost the entire time; in the end I came to the conclusion that I'm just not naturally talented. I can use all my other weapons and powers without a hitch, so I guess some of my experiences and skills in the real world correlate here. I was always pretty good with a spear, and very in tune with my surrounding, but I never had a knack for gaging distance and all that. Frociesta ain't as lazy a I thought!

After training I went home to catch some shut eye. However, three hours were all I was granted.

A loud banging on the door woke me up, along with multiple shouts of my names. Those of which seemed to belong to the main six, Snipe, and Spike. Well the cries belonged to Twilight and Rainbow, but I could sense everyone else. 

Rolling my lazy ass off of the bed, I landed on the floor and then proceeded to float down the stairs; fully clad in nothing but jogging bottoms! Back home I'd eat shit before ever revealing myself to people in such a way, but now who cares, I'm fucking hot!

Opening the door revealed multiple worried faces, and quite a few tears. I was more concerned now, so I stepped aside and let them all flood in. On the way past, I saw a glimpse of Snipe, who was currently wearing a long cloak covering most of him. However, I also saw a glimpse of what the problem was. I couldn't see exactly what it was, but there was a large sum of energy sprouting out of his back, with some of it flowing through him little by little. The boy didn't eye contact with me, but instead just went and sat down in my living room along with everyone else. Twilight followed quickly behind him, casting some kind of spell as she walked. 

Before I could question her or what was going on, I felt a small tug to my side. Turning my head revealed Applejack. You could tell by her eye lids that she had been keeping in tears, which means she's trying to act strong in front of the others. She grabbed hold of my hand and tugged me to the kitchen. She sat down on one of the counter seats and gestured for me to take a seat next to her. 

"Care to explain?"

She leaned in close and whispered in my ear, "Snipe has been chosen as the fifth Phoenix."

A chill ran down my spine as the words left her mouth. "You mean.....Contarmons Phoenix?" She slowly nodded.


Side note: The legend of Contarmon


The legend of Contarmon was a folk story that has been told for hundreds of years. It was said that it was discovered in a tomb of an Egyptian king, written on multiple walls. Scientists never managed to figure out if it was a true tale, as it was entirely possible, but there were many theories as to it's origins.

In the year coming to7030 BC, a young king named Contarmon was poisoned by an assassin. The assassin was sent to kill the king, but failed in his task. This poison was sold to him by an untrustworthy merchant, and so did not have the desired effects. The poison the king consumed did not kill him instantly, but instead gave him precisely one year to live. Thankfully, the king at the time was a rather talented alchemist, and so recognised the symptoms the moment it was consumed. His finger nails turned red, and his ears began to turn white due to lack of blood.

Normally this wouldn't be to much of a problem for Egypt, but the problem was lied in that he had not yet produced an heir. After the news got out he was proposed to multiple times, but turned down each and everyone one. His reasons were that he still harboured to much love for his wife, who had passed away years before in an accident. 

Contarmon thought very highly of those with power, and so devised a plan to decide the next ruler. 

"Five warriors shall be chosen! And when the day of my death comes, they shall undergo a series of challenges! The one to survive will be the only one fit to rule this land!"

And so, five warriors were selected, and were due to meet at the palace in 11 months time. During that time they trained themselves physically, and mentally, in order to become the strongest. These five warriors were known as the five Phoenixes of the Nile.

Sadly that was all that was written, and humanity abandoned earth before the answer was ever found.


Phoenix's point of view
His kitchen


"Fuck."

Applejack sighed "Couldn't have said it better myself."

Suddenly getting up from my seat startled AJ, and walking towards the others with a serious face startled them. Snipe was sat down on the sofa closest to the door, with RD and Pinkie cheering him up on either side. Kneeling in front of him, I took his hands and spoke softly. "When's the ceremony?" 

He answered threw teary eyes, "Nine days."

"Location?"

"Capitol of the Griffon lands."

I let go of his hands and eyed the girls, "Any way out of it?" They all shook their heads. I spoke in a cheery manor as to make light of the situation. "Whelp! Looks like were all going on vacation!"

Snipe instantly shot up from the sofa in shock. "You'll come?!" I gave him a nod, which earnt me a slobbery hug. 

Still hugging the little ball of happiness, I addressed the rest of the room. "You all comin'?"

"Of course!"
"Of course!"
"Of course!"
"Of course!"
"Of course!"
"Of course!"
"Of course!"

I sighed, "As touching as that was, you guys ever heard of a cliché?"

Pinkie was the only one to respond, as everyone else were busy tilting their heads in confusion. "Of course silly! If we didn't make it cliché, no one would read the story!"

"What?" My only answer was a slow fall of confetti above my head. 

Before I could ask again, a certain overwhelmed Griffon burst into tears, shouting all sorts of 'thank yous'.

They all left soon after, and Twilight said she'd fill me in on a few details the next day. Seeming as though it was about two in the morning, I floated my self back to bed, and caught some more very needed shut eye.
> 10 Errands
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
His bed


Once I awoke, I began my morning routine, preparing my self for todays activities. I threw on some black jogging bottoms and a black tank top, both suited for the plans I had today. I then made my way downstairs, grabbed big ball of natural sugars from the fruit bowl, and walked through the door.

On todays agenda:

-Get info from Twi
-Teach Twi Japanese (If I have the time)
-Meeting with the Princess'
-Reconnaissance! 

Making my way over to the Library didn't take long, so I was soon sat down on a familiar sofa once again, with a very worried Twi in front of me. 

"So um....Phoenix.........do you......have a plan?"

"I'm offended by the fact you even had to ask."

She released a long sigh after hearing my words. Now in a more relaxed tone, "So what do you have in mind, we can't just tell them no."

"Who said anything about denying their request?" 

"W-What?"

"We will be there at the festival. Only then will Snipe decide whether he will participate."

"Are you crazy!? If we show up there, they'll think he's contending! We'll have to get the Princesses word if we are to resign him from the competition."

Taking a deep breath, I shut down the idea with cold facts that I hated. "Snipe isn't legally a subject of the Princesses, but rather the Griffon king. If the Griffon king wishes the presence of Snipe, he will get the presence of Snipe; well, that's if his army of thousands has anything to say about it."

She up in anger or defeat, I couldn't tell which, and raised her voice to a shout that could definitely be heard outside. "So were just going to show up there with no plan, and blindly abide by there wishes!?"

Getting up, I slowly made my way around the table. I stopped just in front of her and reached out to put a hand on her head. "There's no need for shouting right now. I know the opponent has all the right cards, but who ever said I play by the rules?"

A few tears welled up in her eyes and she practically fell forwards with her head in my chest. "I just don't wanna lose a new friend........."

I began the usual, rubbing the back of her head and pats on the back. "I think you underestimate my power to get what I want; and I want Snipe to win the competition." My cheery attitude spread to the teary eyed woman in my arms.

She spoke through many sniffs, but she managed to get out a sentence. "I really hope your confidence is for good reason."

"Well anyways, if things go south I'll just kill anyone that tries to hurt you guys." I could barely tell at first because she wasn't moving that much in my arms, but she froze at that. And so I used my 'Was definitely joking!' voice. "I'm just playing with yah!" I wasn't. "Why would I go killing anyone for a nerd like you!"

First I got a small snicker, until eventually she was caught by a laughing fit and released me from the embrace. Wiping away the tears, "You know Phoenix, your mean."

I tugged on the shirt I was wearing and responded. "Maybe if you stopped messing up my shirts I'd be a bit nicer!" Followed by more laughter and a few apologies.

I then took my leave, promising to come back later for a bit of teaching if I had the time.

Next up on the list was meeting up with the princesses. However, before that I decided to gear up. I figure I'd head straight over to the next task after I've spoken with the princesses. 

Now at my humble abode, I took a shower, threw on some flexible black jeans and a black tank top, put on a large black cloak Rarity made, and placed Chastiefol upon my back. Now, can you guess how I got to Canterlot castle?

Now at the top of the cliff, I made sure to throw Shadowfall back once more, and began my way over to the throne room. However, a couple of nice guards politely delivered the massage that they were not currently located in the thrown room.

"They ain' there. Now fuck off."

"Then could you tell me where they are?"

"I said fuck off you-"

"Thanks." I interrupted. It takes a while to delve into a persons brain and find the exact bit of information you need among the sea of data; so it helps when you bring the answer to the forefront of their mind. Mind reading is cracked!! 

I began my way over to Celestia's room, where they were apparently located, but I didn't make it far before I was stopped by a hand being placed on my shoulder. "That was cheap," I heard form my right, before turning to see a familiar blue haired 'Shadow Star'.

"I believe you mispronounced efficient, sir."

Shining Armour gave a small chuckle, as he continued to walk in the direction I was headed. He gestured for me to fall in to his left, and so I fell into his left. We walked for a few moments before he spoke without turning his head, "Why so stiff?" 

I cocked my eyebrow in confusion and turned to him. He said nothing, and just looked me up and down as if it was obvious. Only then did I realise my hands were locked behind my back, my chest was out, and my chin was up. Returning to a more relaxed position, "Apologies, old habits die hard." 

"Ah, so my suspicions were correct. Which squadron?"

With a sigh and a tone more threatening than I meant for it to be, "I'd rather we ended this conversation here. And also, not one that you would know."

"I respect that." He stated simply, as we kept on walking.

The topic wasn't brought up again after that, and instead, we decided to converse over breakfast items. Just as we were getting up to the door, I asked him a different question. "May I ask why you thought it necessary to escort me here?"

"Just wanted a chinwag, I'm not on duty and my fiancé is no where to be found." He stated, with a slight laugh to himself.

"Shouldn't you look for her?"

"Last time we spoke she stormed off and called me inconsiderate. Then she said that she didn't want to see me. So I feel like I should give it some time." A slightly worried expression took over his face for a second, before his bright smile returned. "Anyway, were here now! I've got some paper work to look over so I'll be off!" 

We said our goodbyes and shared a fist bump -one that he initiated might I add- before I knocked on the door. It soon swung open with a blue, gold, and........light blue coloured magic? Haven't seen that one in the castle before. Stepping inside the room, I began looking for the owner of said light light blue magic, but there was no one to be seen. Well, except the one curled up inside the covers of Celestia's bed. Celestia herself was sat on a stall next to the person, and Luna was sat at a desk in a 'thinking position' you'd see in any kids program. Before I could say a word, the sun princesses got up and made her way over to me. "Great timing Phoenix." She said, before grabbing my hand and attempting to drag me towards the bed. The key word being attempting, as she could not move my feet an inch. She turned back at me in either annoyance or shock, so I began my way over to where she was dragging me. I was now stood over the person in the bed with Celestia to my right. Letting out a sigh, Luna got up from her seat and then took a spot to my left. I went to question either of them but before I could Celestia began speaking. "Cadence, this is Phoenix." She said gesturing to me. "Phoenix, this is Cadence." she said gesturing to the lump. 

Luna then chimed in, "Our niece here has been having some relationship problems; so we were wondering if you had any advice you could give regarding her predicament." 

"You said....relationship?" She nodded. "Ah. Well, sorry to say but I'm not very well versed in that department." Literally dated one girl, and that was when I was sixteen. 

Celestia tapped my shoulder to get my attention before speaking. "It's not so much as we need your advice; more that a males point of view would be most helpful."

"I see." I said, turning to the one named Cadence. "Fire away miss." The covers shook a little bit, and faint mumbling sould be heard from them. If there were distinguishable words in that, then I couldn't tell. "Come again?" The same, but louder mumbles. So, I turned to Celestia and asked, "Permission to remove the covers your liege?"

She slightly smiled at my ever lasting terrible sense of humour and replied, "Permission granted."

I used levitation to remove the covers, which revealed a woman clinging to them as they went up. However, the moment her back left the bed she let go, and bounced up and down on the overly squishy mattress. "Good morning." I said, knowing full well it was almost two o'clock in the afternoon. The woman in question was evidently young, and quite stunning. Her long, silky hair was multi coloured -being blond, pink and purple-, fitting the dress she was clad in to a T. It became her wonderfully, leaving no ounce of her potential beauty unseen. Nothing short of what you'd expect from the niece of the two Goddess like figures to either side of me. 





Her pouting at the princesses led them to jump on the bed and tickle her, which was an amusing sight, but I grew bored rather quickly as I was here about serious business. A loud 'Ahem' got there attention, as they all stopped and turned to look at me. Luna and Celestia blushed, which made my day, and they all apologised. "So what do you need my opinion on?"

Celestia sparked, remembering what she needed in the first place, before answering. "You see, Cadence here wants to have sex wi-" She was swiftly cut off by Cadence rapping her hands over her mouth with a large blush on her face. It was then that I put all the pieces together in my head, Sherlock Holmes style.

"Cadence," she looked up at me, "Shining armour is the type of man who is oblivious to when a girl makes a move. It is very rare that you find a man that can read how fast there partner wants to take things. Right now, he's probably content in just giving you huggles and kisses everynight. Don't pin that on him though, as men are some of the smartest yet densest things to have ever been created." 

All three of them looked a bit dumbstruck by what I just revealed, but came back to their senses with a quick snap of my fingers. "I-I see......" Cadence said, before looking downwards in a thinking gesture. "Wait, but how did you know-"

Clapping my hands together interrupted her train of thought, as I quickly changed the subject. "Anyways, I have some important business I wish to discuss with your aunties, so if you would be so kind as to leave, I would be highly appreciative."

She stood up off of the bed with a pout and spoke in a slightly annoyed tone. "I'm not a child you know, there is no reason for you to speak to me in such a condescending manor."

With a slight smirk, "Condescending you say? Well then, I guess a change in tone is in order." I dropped the formal voice I use in the princesses presence and used the one I'd use with a mate from earth. "Fuck off."

These words garnered a multitude of reactions: Cadence was stood in shock with her jaw wide open, Celestia was sat at the side of her bed trying not to show how amusing she found my remark, and Luna was sprawled across the bed in a laughing fit. 

Turning around, I opened the door before walking towards the shell-shocked princess. I closed her mouth for her, and then proceeded to lightly push her out of the room from her back. Once she was out, I closed the door and turned to the other two, swiping my hands together as if I was beating off dust. The sight I returned to was now two woman sprawled across the bed in uncontrollable laughter. After about five minutes, they calmed down and listened to what I had to say. 

I explained the situation to the two of them, and they were more than happy to help. They explained to me that the fastest mode of transport they could offer at the time was an airship, which I was more than happy to accept being a Final Fantasy fan. They said it wasn't too big, and people would have to share rooms, but that didn't really matter to me all too much. The thing that did matter though was the fact that it would take a week to get there, meaning if we wanted time to get settled in we'd have to leave tomorrow. I personally didn't mind, but I'd need to make sure that others where good to go. She then asked me which of the guards I'd like to take, so I gave her my requests and she called them all to the thrown room. I never got the name of the old guy I met when I first appeared in this world, so I asked Celestia to call in all the captains of the individual squads. I soon picked out the man. Upon being reunited, we shared a warrior hand shake (grabbed each others wrists) and he gave me his name. That being Crusty Spear, which got a chuckle out of me. After sending the rest of the captains back to their posts, I was left with four familiar faces. Thunderlane, Blossomforth, Crusty, and Shining. The princesses had them clear their schedule for the next three weeks, and stationed them to protect me, and those I was bringing. Shining wasn't too happy when he heard Twilights name on the list of who was going. That confused me for a moment, before Luna told me they were siblings. I should have been more surprised than I was, but I could kinda see it. After speaking about a few smaller details like food and and sleeping quarters, the four were sent back to their duties, and were told to pack before getting a good nights rest. And then finally, I said my goodbyes, and left the castle. 

It took about five hours to get everything sorted, so it was now around seven in the evening. Prime time to do some illegal shit! Before I had left the castle, I had asked Luna for a world map. After looking at which direction the griffon kingdom was located, I got into an o' so familiar stance before launching Shadowfall into the distance. I made sure to throw it at an angle where it would land right at the gate to the capital. To be honest I'm not sure how I knew where the gate was, but my sixth sense was definitely working it's magic. I waited for a short while before clenching my fist.

And so, I found my self in a new location. One that had six guards surrounding me. Then with a quick tilt and pop of my neck, "So how we doin' today boys?" I was answered by a spear being launched towards the back of my head. Turning slightly to the left, I let the spear fly past me, barely in front of my nose. Realising what I could do with this, I used air bending to increase the speed of the projectile, and had it run the guard to my right through the chest. I then pulled Chastiefol from my back and began spinning it around me like a friggin jujitsu master before over extatically exclaiming, "It's show time!"
> 11 Reconnaissance!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
Griffon capital borders


I then pulled Chastiefol from my back and began spinning it around me like a friggin jujitsu master before over extatically exclaiming, "It's show time!" 

I jumped up in a backflip, landing on the shoulders of the guard behind me, before giving said guards neck a quick chop with the side of my hand. After a second, he began to fall limp on the floor. I then jumped off of the unconscious body, using his face as push off, and kicked the guard opposite him in the neck. I used the momentum to spin my entire body round, bringing the guards unconscious form with me, until I was in a press up position but wit his neck under my twisted leg. After standing up, I began stretching my leg out, realising that I should have definitely done it before my stunt.

It was then the remaining three guards snapped out of their stupor and began to react. I jab from a spear was approaching my left; so I grabbed the handle just before the spears head and snapped it off. After some consideration, I decided using Chastiefol on a bunch of guards just doing their job was harsh, so I place it back on my back as the soldiers took some steps back.

I threw the head of the spear to the floor in front of it's owner, distracting him, and giving me enough time to shoot forwards and force him to the ground by his chest. I proceeded to steel all the power from his limbs and vocal box, but I didn't absorbed it. I already knew the drawbacks from it, and it wasn't worth wasting on a simple guard. 

Deciding I had finished my warm up, I took power from the remaining two as well, before making my way to the soldier wearing a spear in his chest. "Sorry about that buckaroo." I said, before pulling out the spear and focusing pollen garden around his wound. It wouldn't repair his most likely punctured lung, but I managed to stop the bleeding and fix his oesophagus. I then closed up the wound, but the scar it left was inevitable. 

All through the process, he was staring at me with an expression that showed many emotions. The most prominent being anger. So before he could try anything, I levitated him above Chastiefols pillow form before sending it off into some random tavern in the city walls before bringing it back and placing it back on my back. That's a lot of backs.

The gate I chose wasn't the main entrance, but an emergency escape route. This meant less security was supplied, and I wouldn't have to check into the front desk. Yes, I know what your thinking....... 'Phoenix, o' beautiful Phoenix, why didn't you just jump over the walls?' And to that I say, I simply didn't think of that at the time.

I opened the large wooden double doors and stepped inside the city. It appeared that I entered into a rather filthy back ally, with rats and homeless muggers wrapping up the look. It was kind of refreshing, reminded me of the pictures I had seen of London in it's prime. Although, I was told the language they used back then was basically dribble. They used to call shoes......safe.......as a complement. What the fuck does that even mean? Like really, we'd just say 'cool shoes', and that'd be it. Humans really are a baffling species. Well, good thing I'm not exactly part of that demographic now, being part: human, fairy, and crystal gem. 

I slipped my hands in my pockets after putting up my hood, having forgot to do it before. Walking out of the alley, I was found myself in a fairly empty street. It is late, but I'm surprised considering it's the capital of a rather prominent nation. I began walking around, taking in my surroundings. A few things stood out to me in particular. Most of the buildings were made of sandstone, which wasn't what I was expecting. You'd think griffons would reside in mountains or something of the like, but from what I could tell we weren't at a high altitude at all. The place gave off a more African/British vibe, which is a weird one to describe. Another thing that caught my eye, was the banners lined practically on every building. I would describe each of them, but I didn't have to being as though they were all of the same emblem. It was a large crimson phoenix plastered over a salmon orange circle. However, the circle was split in two, with the ends of one overlying with the ends of the other. Pretty generic, but nobody asked me. 

I walked over to a low hanging one to take a closer look. It was hung on what I assumed to be a pub, considering all the drunks that were walking out. The banner seemed to be made of an expensive silk, without a speck of dirt on it. This puzzled me a bit, seeming a though the pub it was hung on didn't appear to be the most hygienic. The place was also quite run down; you could see it had gone through some shit. 

Continuing walking, I crossed another road to find a small doll shop. It too, had a banner outside, just as spotless as the last one. Now, no offence to the little old lady inside, but the shop was obviously on it's last legs. How would a run down corner shop like this have the money to spare to promote something like the.....wait, what is it even called? I'd hope 'The Phoenix Fiesta' because I'm a weeb, but I wouldn't call a five person free-for-all a 'fiesta'. I decided to leave my pondering there. Besides, I already had a rough idea of what was happening. 

I stepped inside the little shop, with a small ding of a bell in my wake. The first thing I noticed was the overwhelming smell of lavender, coming form an incense on her desk. And next to that there was a........book. The little old lady behind the counter looked up from the book she had in her hands and beamed at me. "Hello there! Thought I'd keel over and die before anyone entered this little shop of mine!"

My lip curled up at her sense of humour before I replied. "Well your in luck today, Miss......" I rolled my hand in a questioning gesture. 

"Quilt, Miss Quilt." She said, getting off her chair and walking towards me. She then extended her hand to me and spoke. "And who might you be?"

I took her hand in mine, placing a kiss on it, before answering. "You may call me Mr Elvenkind." Figured telling her my real name would course quite the kerfuffle with the whole 'fiesta' going on.

She gave me a playful smack on the chest for my actions before turning and going back to her desk, cleaning it up a bit. "So how may I help you today Mr Elvenkind?" 

"Well you see, I've always been a rather big fan of-" I was cut off. Not by a voice, but by a realisation. "A fang..........."

She froze at my words, confirming my suspicion. I couldn't tell at first due to her hiding her ghoulish presence impeccably well, but her first mistake was the lavender incense. I have to say, I hate lavender. The moment I smelt it in the shop I began breathing through my mouth when possible, as to not pick up the smell as strongly. However, I could taste the bitter taste of metal in my mouth, which meant only one thing. There was blood in the air. And not a small amount. Now, this alone wasn't what confirmed it for me. Because I'm a shneaky individual, I set her up. I uttered the words 'A fang' at a volume humans simply wouldn't be able to hear; but she reacted.

Before I could say anything further, she practically wiped everything off of her desk looking for a book. And once she had found said book, she opened it to reveal a knife hidden inside of it. The pages had been cut out perfectly to conceal it. You'd never know it was there. Unless your me of course, who realised the moment I walked into the shop. Yes yes I know I'm amazing.

The old lady span around with the dagger gripped tightly between her two profusely sweating hands. An abundance of fear was sketched across her face as she spoke. "Get out of my shop! I'll cut ya!"

I sighed, walking over to her slowly with my eyes closed. Despite her gipping it with all her might, I levitated the knife out of her hands and placed it in my back pocket. Her eyes widened as she realised I was a magic wielder. She began to scurry to her back room, but I slammed the door shut with air bending before pulling the ground up in front of it to prevent it being opened. She span around to look at me again. Before looking at the door I entered from. However, before she even made the attempt, I positioned my self between her and the door within a blink of an eye. 

She had given up at this point, and fell to her knees in tears. She began wiping the tears from her eyes before stammering out, "Please make it quick." Needless to say the scene was quite unnerving, but I suppose this was just how things worked.

I began my way over to the woman, crouching in front of her and placing my hands on her shoulders. "Ruber, lūteus, viridis, caeruleus or āter?" 

"Huh?" The currently shaking woman stammered out. Looking up at me in surprise.

"Ruber, lūteus, viridis, caeruleus or āter?"

"Lūteus......" She said in a shocked tone. Probably never met someone who knew about the clans.

"I see." I said, taking a hand off of her and using it to scratch my chin. "Apologies milady, I know it isn't very becoming of me, but may I inquire your age?"

"I-I'm, six thousand s-seven hundred and twenty six." 

"Thank you milady. This is very useful information." She nodded slowly. "Also, may I ask why you did not resort to your kagune?"

She gave a weak chuckle at my question before answering, "Good ol' Arthur."

I laughed audibly at her remark, knowing that she was referring to arthritis. "I see! I wasn't aware fangs could get that." 

"Well, were more similar to humans than you think, us fangs." She spoke wearing a sad smile.

"Oh I'm well aware!" I said, getting up from my crouching position. Her gaze followed me up, either in confusion or hope. "Whelp, Miss Quilt, I have to be off now. I hope you have a wonderful evening!"

"W-What? Y-Your n-not gonna, kill me?"

I placed my hand on my chest and took a step back as if I had been fatally insulted, before giving my retort. "Ah! I'm not a murderer you know! That comment was very inconsiderate!" However, she was too shaken up to respond to my antics. "In the upcoming month I shall come to visit you once more. Make sure your packed and ready to go by then. I will be taking you to a place where you will be safe. But, you may have to deal with a few tests to make it worth my while. Is this acceptable?" She slowly nodded in response, still on the floor with tears in her eyes, and still overwhelmed by the situation. "Wonderful." I responded, before making my way over to the exit. "Oh. Almost forgot." I turned around to her and shut all the blinds in the room before extending my right arm out. I then proceeded to pull Chastiefol from my back and cut it clean off. The woman stared at me like I was a mad man as I picked up the limb and threw it over to her. "This should last you until I next visit; bon appetit!" I didn't wait for a response, but instead left the building in time for my arm to grow back fully. 

As I left the shop, I stretched my neck and it made a quick pop, before I realised the small boy to my right. He was staring at my right arm, so I looked it over to see the red liquid covering the top half. Realising my mistake, I bent the blood off and put it down the nearest drain, before turning back to the boy. I put my pointing figure over my lips and gave him a wink, before taking my leave towards the castle.

Looking up at the moon, I realised it had now gotten pretty late, and I knew I wouldn't have much time to sleep. And so, I decided to speed things up a little. By that I mean running straight towards the castle at a speed where no one could see me. Now at the castle gates, I jumped over them before the guards could even shout my name. Although they definitely saw my entry. I then proceeded to jump over the entire courtyard -which was absolutely stunning by the way- and land just outside the main entrance. Looking back, I took in the beauty that was the entrance to the castle. There was a red carpet with a golden lining going from the gate all the way up to there stairs I was stood on. And on either side of said carpet was a line of palm trees, standing at at least twenty feat. Multiple lakes could also be seen around the area, with various statues spouting water into each. Overall a magnificent site, but then again, my planet went boom before I had the chance to see any of these wonderful sites, so I'm probably biased.

After I turned back around, I was greeted by two scary lookin fellas in armour. Both carrying cutlass' the size of Snipe. Now, normally I'd take part in battle right about now but I knew that I needed to get some sleep as well as inform the others that we were leaving tomorrow, and so I decided to just take the power from the two of them and be on my merry way. 

I opened the over sized doors and walked into, you guessed it, more guards! Having already stealthily snuck in without raising a single suspicion and not evidently jumping over walls going above twenty feat, I decided to do the shneakiest thing imaginable. That being running around the castle seven times to get a good lay of the land. I came across a rather large arena looking thing. I say rather large but I mean, gladiator level shit. I assumed that was where the ceremony would be held, seeming as though you could hold hundreds of thousands of people in the seating area alone.

After my seventh lap, I decided I was satisfied with the information I gained, and decided to just walk out the way I came. Many guards move to stop me, but I simply pushed each of them back with my air bending before exiting the castle. 

Finally done with everything I had planned, I returned home. I contemplated telling the girls about the trip, but then assumed Celestia or Luna had already done it, and so I banished the thought from my mind. Once upstairs, I took a shower, brushed me teeth, and hopped into bed; letting the world of dreams take me.
> 12 Departure
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
His bed


Once upstairs, I took a shower, brushed me teeth, and hopped into bed; letting the world of dreams take me. 

Waking up to banging at my door was getting very old, but at least this time the fucking sun was actually up. I mean, we were going on a whole ass adventure, but seriously, this mama jama needs his sleep!

Internally groaning, I holstered myself out of my prison of a bed and made my way downstairs. I was wearing the usual, jogging bottoms and nothing else, but the prince at my door didn't take too kindly to that. As well as the guards accompanying him.

I swung the door open with an apple in my hand and spoke, "Can I help you?" Before taking a bite of my apple. I didn't recognise the man at all, but I figured from the description Rarity gave me one time that it was a certain dictating prince. He was wearing a purple suit with a yellow rose in his breast pocket. It was obviously fit to impress but the thing looked uncomfortable as all hell. The waist line was like a vice grip, and the cuffs were practically glued to his wrists.

"Ugh, put some clothes on you plebeian. You're speaking to royalty for Celestia's sake!"

I put my hand up to my chin and looked up at the sky in a thinking gesture, murmuring the words, "You have a point, you have a point." After a few moments I extatically raised my finger into the air exclaiming, "I have come to a conclusion!" Then with a blank expression and lowering my hands into my pockets, "No."

His eye visibly twitch as he grit is teeth. "Are you mocking me?"

"Perhaps." I responded in a sly tone.

Before the prick in front of me could make a remark, a familiar voice called out from the distance. "Blueblood! You gotten him yet!?"

The 'prince' span round at the owner of the voice and spit back. "That's prince Blueblood!"

"Oh hey Rainbow," I said, practically barging past Blueblood once she came into view. "We leaving already?"

"Yup, everyone's ready to go!" She said, pointing a thumb over her shoulder to the........giant fucking airship! 

Trying to keep a beam at bay, "I see, sorry for the delay, twas a long night."

"No problem dude!" 

It was then Blueblood decided to make a stupid move. 

I suddenly heard a voice from behind me, a voice of pure anger. "How dare you ignore me!"

Being a five year old, in response I simply tilted my head and said, "Hey Rainbow, did you hear that?"

She compressed a laugh as she responded. "No Phoenix, must have been the wind."

"Oh you've done it now you low lives! I hear you good with combat Phoenix! Try dodging this!!" These words were followed by a dagger being sent through my chest, dead centre. Rainbows pupils shrank to a size I didn't think possible as I accidently coughed up some blood onto her shoes. I heard Bluebloods guards gasp and run to stop him from going any further. Meanwhile, I thought this to be prime time to crack a joke.

"See Rainbow, men are dangerous creatures. All they think about is impaling things." However, no response. She simply stood stunned with her mouth wide open. "No reaction? Huh, I thought was pretty good." 

She began to turn and summon her wings, but I grabbed her hand before she could fly away; and, I assume, get help. Then, I levitated the sword out from my back before turning around and tossing it towards the asshole it belonged to; who was currently being restrained by the guards for obvious reason. 

Still holding RDs hand, I turned back to her and pointed to my chest. Or more specifically, the lack of hole in it. "Honestly Rainbow, I am really in no mood for this shit, so I'll explain later. I'll go get packed then we can leave." I then turned around to the little shit with a happy trigger finger. "As for you, consider yourself lucky, as I am currently in a state where I cannot physically be angry." Air ships man, gotta love em. "So I suggest you fuck off before I evolve from this state, and take a form that will visit you in your nightmares for the rest of your life." Being restrained by one of the guards, the most aggressive action he could muster was spitting at me. Sighing, I reached down and grabbed a pebble from the ground, before launching it into Bluebloods stomach by flicking it. That earnt me a view of his lunch, or in this case breakfast. "Woops, my finger slipped." The entire time Dash was just staring at my chest in bewilderment. Deciding to leave the mess of the scene behind me, I made my way over to my house and threw the door. But not before exclaiming, "I can already tell this is going to be a wonderful trip!"

After going back inside, I grabbed a quick shower and threw on some black jeans and purple tank top. I then, began packing a few sets of clothes, along with my note book and power book. I didn't really need much else, so I was quick to exit my house and find Rainbow relaying the story back to the main six along with Celestia, Luna and Cadence. But, no Blueblood.

I walked over to them with Chastiefol following close behind with my luggage atop it. "Yo." I grabbed there attention. All of them simply turned to me with worried/shocked expressions plastered upon them. Letting out a sigh, "Can we just go?" A wave of nods answered me.

We made our way towards the ship. It was floating just above town square, which meant it garnered quite a bit of attention from the passer bys. We arrived in short time, with little conversation during the walk other than basic pleasantries. We met up with Spike, Snipe and Shining just before we got to the fountain. Snipe still had a large cloak on covering his back, but I could only assume what had sprouted. I gave Spike and Shining a bro fist and Snipe a hug, before they all went off to greet the others. Shining kissing Cadence, Spike high fiving Twilight, and Snipe sharing a special handshake with Rainbow. Snipe and RD had really hit it off since they met, which was great, and now I rarely see them apart. Well, since the party anyway.

"Phoenix," Celestia started. "this is Captain Swerve and his second man, Swivel. They run the ship you see before you." She pointed straight up to the hunk of wood above me with a proud look on her face. 

I spoke looking straight up at the beauty, "I see." Looking back down, I shook the hands of the two who ran it. "Pleasure working with you."

"Ditto." They spoke at the same time which put a smirk on my face.

"A few things you should know," Swerve started. "you and the people accompanying you will all have a trained guard accompanying them each. Unless of course you say other wise. Think of them as a personal butler of sorts." I nodded, knowing full well I wasn't going to accept the offer. "Also, there aren't enough rooms for one each, so people will have to share unfortunately." I smiled and turned back to Spike and Snipe before asking, "Wanna bunk?" 

"Hell yeah!"
"Hell yeah!"

This was followed by a smack on both there heads from Twi and Rarity. "Language!"

"Hehe, sorry..."
"Hehe, sorry..."

I chuckled at the exchange and turned back to Captain Swerve. "Apologies, please continue." 

With a smile of his own, "The skeleton crew come out at eight and rest at four. However, your personal guard will sleep four hours a night once you relieve them of their duties for the day. Breakfast at six thirty, lunch at one, dinner at seven. That is all; are these acceptable?"

Turning around, "Any objections?" They shook their heads. Spinning back around, "No problems here."

"Splendid." The old man said, curling his mustacho. I wasn't paying attention before, due to not being able to peal my eyes off the ship, but taking in his features I saw that he was quite a short man, at least a foot and a half smaller than me. He had a long grey beard that was platted at the end and no hair on his head to speak of, giving him a look that screamed, 'I have a tomahawk in my back pocket'. Swivel, on the other hand, was quite tall (being only just shorter than me) and looked like he was in his twenties at the least. He had scraggy rose gold hair and a half assed stubble. It suited him quite well to be fair, and the two looked like a couple fit to be running a ship.

Swivel then turned to a man in robes, that only just teleported in, and spoke. "If you would please gather around this man so that he can teleport you up to the deck." I did so, with the others following shortly behind me. However, I turned around to see Cadence clinging to Shining as they walked. 

"Um... excuse me, Miss Cadence. I wasn't aware you were joining us." I spoke, trying not to come across as rude. 

"Well, after forgiving my fiancé here," She cuddled up closer to him. "I decided I wanted to spend more time with him." She then planted a kiss on his cheek.

I chuckled to my self before saying, "I know what you two did last night."

This brought a blush to each of their faces, and two tomatoes took place where their heads used to reside. "What did they do?" Twilight asked from my right.

I turned to the curious creature and patted her head before speaking. "The grownups are talking Twi." This earnt me a pout and a fake punch to the chest. Celestia, Luna and me burst into our individual laughs, whilst everyone else looked on at us confused. Well, excluding Shining and Cadence who were attempting to hide behind their long locks. "Aight, one more won't hurt." This reverted Cadence from her tomato form, as she fist pumped to her self with a mini 'Yessss!'. Turning to the princesses, I began to speak. "Whelp, see you in a few weeks." 

"Right."
"Indeed."

Everyone else said their good byes, and they all made there way up one by one, until it was only me and Shining left. He gave me a forceful slap on the back and a sly smile. Which got a chuckle out of me, knowing it was his way of letting me know of his later revenge.

Being the gentlemen that we are, we let the woman and children leave first, and he then offered to let me go before him, but I told him there was one last thing I wanted to talk to the princesses about so he made his way up. This left only me, Celestia and Luna. 

"What is it you wanted?" Luna inquired.

Floating my luggage off of Chastiefol, I reverted it to it's spear form before slamming it into the ground below me. The princesses looked confused by my actions, so I explained. "Do either of you know a spell that can record audio and then play it back?"

Celestia responded. "Yes, the replay spell. Quite an elementary spell taught at a young age."

"Wonderful, if you don't mind could you record something for me?"

"Okay....." Celestia slowly got out, curious of my actions. 

Her hands began to take their usual golden glow, so I assumed she cast the spell. Leaning in, "Spirit spear Chastiefol, fifth configuration! Increase!" I then lent back, letting them know I was done.

"And what, may I ask, was the purpose of this?" Luna asked.

I smiled at the two of them, and gestured to Chastiefol in the ground. "In the event that Ponyville is attacked, please have someone play that recording next to the spear. Think of it as insurance."

I think they realised that it was there to protect the village, and so they had no objections. "What will happen when someone does?"

I sly smile appeared on my face as I pictured the scene. "The fireworks will begin." I exclaimed, moving my hands out from my chest to the sides in an explosion gesture. However, before they could respond, I crouched down and leaped up atop the ship. Shouting in my wake, "Take care."

Landing on the ship, I span around to find many stunned faces, followed by everyone shaking there heads as if telling them selves to forget what they just saw.

I smirked at this, and turned to the captain. "When do we leave?"

His lips curled up at the sides in a shifty smile before he spoke. "Right now." The ship suddenly began trembling, causing everyone but the crew mates, Shining and me to wobble a bit. Until eventually they fell to the floor, Shining catching Cadence before she could. 

Turning back, I looked over board to find us quickly ascending into the sky. We were above the clouds in no time at all, and the ground soon became a distant memory. Well, it would have; if I didn't have eyes of a fucking eagle! 

Taking a deep breath of the air, not even attempting to suppress the smile sprawled across my face, and turned round to  the others. I spoke in a tone of pure joy, "Destination, the Griffon Kingdom!!" Everyone cheered in response. Excluding Snipe, who had a small smile on him and a few tears running down his face. Once everyone noticed, they turned to him instantly.

"You alight there partner?" Applejack asked in concern.

"Thank you." He squeaked out. "Thank you all so much."

Pinkie practically jumped on the poor boy wrapping him in a hug, shortly followed by Rainbow dash. The two began tickling him and giving words of encouragement. Whilst the three were practically wrestling on the ground, my eyes met with Snipes, and he beamed at me with a few tears still in his eyes. I smiled back at him, thinking about the plans I had for this boy, if he agreed of course.
> 13 A friendly game
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
Air ship deck


I smiled back at him, thinking about the plans I had for this boy, if he agreed of course.

After the three of them were finished wrestling, Swivel had the guards line up so that we could pick our individual guards. Soon there were eleven guards lined up in front of us; all with faces of determination for some reason. 

We let the youngest pick first, so I personally recommended one to each of them. Out of the eleven guards I recognised three. Those being: Sergeant Blossomforth, Lieutenant Thundy, and Crusty Spear. I recommended Spike Thundy and Snipe Blossom, which they were both chill with. I then asked the group if I could get the next pick. Now, I wasn't originally gonna get one, but from my interactions with Crusty, I could tell he was a kind soul and a good laugh. They agreed so I chose him. He was more than happy to oblige, taking a stance adjacent to me (back right) with his hands behind his back and his chin up proudly.

Cadence being Cadence exclaimed that Shining was all the protection she needed, so neither of them accepted the offer. The rest of them agreed though, excluding Rainbow, who insisted they'd slow her down in combat. I faced palmed at that, considering she just mocked a trained soldier that was handpicked by Celestia herslef. 

We were then showed to our rooms. The rooms were: Me, Snipe and Spike / Shining and Cadence / Rainbow and Applejack / and everyone else got their own. RD and Applejack were happy to share, and of course Cadence was all for the arrangements. 

Once me and my roommates were taken to our room, we stepped inside to find only two beds. And so, I had me a suggestion.

Pulling a creepy face, I went up behind the boys and placed a hand on either of there shoulders. "So, wanna play game?" They simply turned around with confused faces, not getting the reference. Which was expected I suppose. "Loser sleeps on the floor." This, however, changed their expressions from confusion to ones of challenge. 

"Your on!"
"Your on!"

Soon, we were all sat on the floor by the ends of the beds in a circle. "The rules are simple." I started, before holding up a glass of water I had previously filled up in the bathroom. "Keep the water in your mouth for one minute."

The two cocked their brows at me, before Spike Spoke. "That's it?"

I devious smile appeared upon my face as I could picture the game in my head. "There's one more rule." I raised a finger. "The other participants may do whatever they please, as long as it does not directly affect the player. We have one minute each, whoever lasts the longest wins."

"Hah, this'll be easy!" Spike said, taking the cup from my hand. He then pulled out a metallic pocket watch from his pocket and began setting a timer. Handing it to me, "Press the button on the side when I begin."

"Got it!" Then, he took a mouthful of water, and began looking at the two of us in a challenging manner. Snipe went to make a move, but I put a hand on his shoulder and motioned for him to let me. He nodded and slid back on the floor, allowing me to sit directly in front of Spike. He looked confused by my actions, which was exactly what I wanted.

I sat crossed legged I front of the boy, with my hands on my knees. I slouched forward, leaning closer towards his face, before pulling a deadly serious expression. I made my eyes look dead as a fish with my eye lids drooping, and pulled a frown I'd never used on someone before. Then in the lowest, and most hate filled, voice I could muster I uttered the word, "Cheese."

That was all it took for the boy to empty his mouth all over my face. Snipe quickly stopped the watch.

Struggling to stop his laughing fit, he repeated many apologies over and over. Getting up, I smiled and made my way to the bathroom where I bent the water off of me and into the sink. I had played this game hundreds of times with my old squad mates, though I was very young back then. Too young.....

Banishing the thought from my mind, I returned to the main room to find that Spikes role had been transferred to Snipe. The little griffon was rolling around on the floor in amusement, whilst Spike was busy grumbling to himself at how it was a cheep trick. 

"I recall you saying something along the lines of, 'This'll be easy!'?"

He practically seethed out his response. "Sly son of a gun....."

Failing to stop the smile on my face, I let out a laugh that just seemed to just tick off Spike even more. But he soon joined me and Snipe in our amusement. I sat back down and we all went back to our original spots on the floor. I grabbed the watch and it displayed it as twenty two seconds. "Twenty two to beat! Who's next?"

Snipe grabbed the glass off the floor in response, as Spike reset the timer. And soon he was off.

Spike instantly tried to copy me, sitting in front of Snipe and reciting the word cheese, but no dice. The griffon could see it coming from a mile away.

This meant we only had forty or so on the clock, so I decided to use another old trick from way back when. 

"Hey Snipe," I called, causing him to look my way. "I spat in that." I said, pointing at the cup.

He looked over at it in surprise, and then proceed to spit out the water over the floor. "What!?" I stopped the watch

"Kidding."

Me and Spike began to laugh as Snipe grit his teeth in annoyance. "You underhanded weasel." His remark, however, only proved to fan the flames of mine and my dragon friends joy.

After I calmed down, I picked up the watch from the floor and read his time. "Alright! Thirty six to beat!" Setting a time on the watch, I tossed it to Spike, who simply caught it and turned to Snipe. They gave a nod to each other before Snipe began to speak.

"May me and Spike step outside for a moment to plan our attack?"

"You may." I answered, with a large smirk. The two left the room, and retuned a couple minutes later. "Ready?"

"Ready."
"Ready."

I sipped the water into my mouth as Spike pressed the timer. Then, my two opponents began crawling their way towards me with devious looks on their faces. However, the two bashed heads on their way over.

"Hey watch it!" Spike proclaimed, rubbing the side of his head. 

"You watch it! This isn't what we planned you pea brain!" Snipe retorted, also rubbing the side of his head.

Spike gave his comrade a deadly stare as he responded. "What did you just say......"

The two stood up off the round and faced each other with matching glares. "I called you a pea brain! Can your stupid head not even comprehend that phrase, you stupid dragon!" Snipe took a step forward, with there heads almost touching now.

"You little...." Spike grabbed Snipes shirt from the front before throwing him against the wall.

I was instantly between the two with my hands on there chests as I boomed out, "Cut it out!!!" This had gone way too far.

Before I could reprimand the two any further however, I heard the light sound of sniggering from either side of me. I turned to each of them to find the quietly laughing to themselves. Before I could question them, they sprung their arms into the air and exclaimed, "We win!!"

Realising my mistake, I span around to find a wet patch on the ground where I once sat. I then turned to the clock Spike had in his hand. It read 'Twenty one'.

I lowered my hands from the boys chests in defeat, and murmured under my breath, "You little shits........"

The two fist bumped, before simply walking over to the beds and jumping on them. Me, I was still stood still in a mix of annoyance and bewilderment.

The door suddenly swung open, revealing the main six, Shining, Cadence, and mine and the little shits respective guards. Twilight instantly stepped into the room in worry, "What happened!? Is everyone okay!?"

Applejack stepped next to her and began scanning across the room for anything unusual. "We heard a loud voice, what the hey happened in here!?"

"Twilight," I began.

"Yes?" She said, worriedly.

Pointing straight to spike without turning around, "You have raised nothing short of a devil." I spoke looking her directly in the eyes.

"What?" She asked, less worried now, as Snipe and Spike were clenching their stomachs in laughter. 

I didn't answer her, but instead turned to the two on the beds and raised my hand in a fist. "I will have my revenge!!"

I wrapped the two in the blankets they were laid on with telekinesis, and began spinning them in every direction. The two in question began playfully screaming, exclaiming their apologies and pleading for me to stop. "I will stop once I satisfied!"

I heard RD's voice from behind me, "He's a weird one alright.", before I heard the sound of them leaving. 

After about a minute of torturing the poor souls, I put them back down, before snatching a pillow off of one of the beds and throwing it into the corner. "Fine, you win." I mean, I was planning to let them sleep in the beds no matter what the outcome, but still, it kinda stung to lose like that.

Once the little shits had stopped seeing seven of everything, they stood up on each of their beds before shouting, "Huzzah!!!" at the top of their lungs. I smiled at their antics, before we heard a knock at the door. 

I opened it to reveal a woman in classic chef wear. "Lunch will be ready in five."  I looked up to the clock on the wall to see it was indeed five to one.

"Right. Thanks for the heads up." She simply took a bow, and left. I closed the door behind her, before turning to my roommates. "Oi! Brat one and brat two, let's grab some grub!"

"Okay!"
"Okay!"

Two peas in a pod. We then made our way to the deck, but not before I cleaned up the spillage from before (though it physically hurt to do so).

Once we left, we met up with our guards -who I ordered to chillax somewhere- and were led to the dining area. 

It was at the back of the ship, on a rather large platform raised above the wheel, with benches and tables scattered around the place. Rarity and Fluttershy were already sat at a table, so the three of us went and sat with them. Soon, the rest arrived, and took there seats around different tables. We made small talk for a while until our lunch arrived. We were all given the same, a basic salad with a side of croutons and a glass of water. 

We all ate and spoke, just making idle conversation about whatever came up. Reminded me of the old times, the good times.

Once we were all finished, everyone went their separate ways again. This left only me and Twi, as Spike went off with Rarity and Snipe with Dash.

"So it's just us." Twilight squeaked, feeling slightly awkward. 

"Indeed." We were sat across from each other in silence for a while, before I broke it. "Sure wish I had a guitar right now....."

However, instead of Twilight responding, a familiar blob of pink energy landed on the table between Twilight and I, guitar in hand. "Here you go!" She extended her hands out to me, and I took the guitar from her slowly, before she jumped off the table and into nothingness apparently; I looked up to find no one to speak of.

"Whelp, that just happened."

Twilight slightly chuckled to herself. "You get used to it."

"Regardless, at least I have this now," I said, raising the guitar. 

She looked at me curiously as she spoke. "I wasn't aware you could play guitar."

"I can play many things," I began, tuning the guitar with one foot on my other knee. "Piano, drums, bass, violin, cello, harmonica, you name it."

"Wow, quite impressive." She said, leaning over the table with a look of amazement. 

"I had quite a bit of spare time when I was younger, and so I never stopped trying to learn new instruments once I was satisfied with my level of skill with the last." It was true, I could play just about any instrument you could think of, I was just that much of a nerd.

Once the guitar was tuned, I looked back up to the librarian and asked, "Wanna hear a song?"

She went slightly red at my question, before dumbly nodding. The more time I spent with her, the more I began to see how god damn cute this librarian was!

"Very well! This one is called, 'Lemon boy'."

Lemon boy

I played the song the whole way through, without making any mistakes. It was weird singing in someone else's voice, but I already had the skills needed to sing the song. Though, I was a whole octave down due to Bans voice being deeper than mine. Twilight sat listening to the song with her eyes closed the entire time. She was swaying back and forth to the rhythm, and just smiled to her self. Twas a wonderful site.

Once I was done, Twilight began clapping with amazement evident on her face. "How was it?"

"It was beautiful!" She shouted, jumping from her seat and leaning over the table towards me.

"Why thank you." I couldn't help the smug look I had. 

"Who wrote it?" 

Hmmm. How do I answer that. "No one you'd know." 

"Really? What's their name?" She tilted her head in curiosity.

Looking off to just the left of her, I spoke in a nonchalant manor. "Wow, would you look a that."

"What?" She asked, before following my gaze behind her. That was my cue. I got up form my seat before I jumped off of the fence and down to the main deck. I then sprinted into my room. I soon heard a sound that most would shake upon hearing. The sound of an angry Twilight. "Phoenix!"
> 14 (R) A little practice
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
His air ship room


I soon heard a sound that most would shake upon hearing. The sound of an angry Twilight. "Phoenix!"

However, before I could hide anywhere, a flash of magic appeared in front of me, followed by a slightly ticked off librarian. 

"Why are you so eager to not tell me anything?" She said with a sly smile as she slowly walked up to me. She looked like she was about to fuckin pounce on my ass!

Raising a hand up to my chin, I spoke in an inquisitive tone. "Hmmm, let's see. Maybe for fun? Maybe due to boredom? No that's not it...." I was slowly turning to the left as I spoke, pretending I was thinking long and hard about the question. Snapping my fingers, I span around to her and pointed. "I got it! It's because I'm a dick!"

Twilight sighed, probably realising that there was some other reason as to why my lips were sealed. And she'd be correct. Earth was a shitty place. And I mean, getting Ice Climbers in a random kind of shitty. Practically every country was on bad terms with each other before the incident. The ship was built by the Americans, with the unwilling help of the Japanese, so on normal circumstances, an Englishman like me wouldn't have a chance in hell of boarding the ship. Lucky for me -well lucky isn't the exactly the term I'd use in any other case- I played a large role at the end of the war, meaning I was given special treatment by the American army. So, with humanity being the shit stain on the sheets of the galaxy, I'd rather leave as much of it behind as possible. Especially the technology and the weapons. But if the time ever comes, I won't hesitate to build me another sniper rifle. 

But I digress, telling Twilight the name of on musician won't change the fate of the earth......or the Equis, I guess? Although, this whole interaction did show me a few things.....

Placing a hand on Twilights head, I smiled at her as I answered her earlier question. "Cavetown, Twi. His name was Cavetown." In response, the egghead conjured up a pen and a notebook labelled Phoenix, before writing something down. Probably the name I gave her. 

After she was done she looked up from the book and beamed at me. " Much appreciated!" 

"Sure..... Now um, mind telling me why you have a notebook with my name on it?" Leaning over and tilting the book down with my finger. "You writing poems about me or something?"

She took a step back, pulling the book away and slamming it shut. "N-No, it's uh...uh...research!" She spoke with a small blush, putting the book behind her back. I probably should have been more surprised, but it was just more evidence I was building up to a certain conclusion. One I wasn't too happy about.

"Right, right. It's completely normal to do research on one of your friends who you definitely trust. I understand."

The blush faded from her face. "Yeah. Of course. Completely normal to...." She looked like she came to a realisation, but I cut her off before she could express it. 

Walking past her, I patted her head as I made my way over to the door and spoke. "Whelp, see you later Twi!" Shutting the door behind me, I made my way to the top deck. My face dropped as I walked, I wasn't annoyed at Twilight, just slightly ticked off with a pair of sisters.

Exiting the stairs leading up to the top deck, I found Rainbow, Spike, and Snipe, along with their respective guards. The two little shits (Still haven't forgiven them) were facing each other with a few meters inbetweener them, whilst the others were formed in a circle/triangle around them. 

Walking up to Rainbow, I tapped her on the shoulder to gain her attention. She turned around around to look at me before speaking, "Oh hey Phoenix! Need something?"

I slightly laughed to my self at what this looked like. With a large smile on my face, I rapped an arm around her shoulder and spoke in a voice only she could hear. "Wanna explain to me why you and two other grown adults are circled around to small children? If I didn't know any better, this seems like a dog pit."

She gave me a confused look and a head tilt before turning round to look at the picture. I had gained the attention of the of the other four now, as they were all staring at me. Rainbow then turned back around at me, obviously understanding what I was getting at, and failed to suppress a burst of laughter.

I sniggered at the confused looks we were getting from the others present. Waving a hand to them, I spoke. "Don't worry about it." They all just shrugged and turned back to each other.

Hearing less laughter, I turned back to Rainbow to find she had calmed down, but still had a small smile on her face. "You know Phoenix, you have a really dark sense of humour." 

Ruffling her hair because I know she hates it, I retorted with my arm still round her shoulders. "Says the one that almost pissed them self from laughing." One punch in the gut later, and we turned back to the group. However, what I saw surprised me quite a bit.

In the two boys hands were held a wooden sword each, pointing upwards in an oh so familiar stance. The two boys were no longer facing each other and were instead side by side, with Thundy behind Snipe and Blossom behind Spike. Each of the soldiers had there arms around the teens, evidently making small adjustments to their stance. Stuff like foot work, eye level, angle of the sword and all that jazz.

Deciding not to interrupt what I can only assume to be a quick lesson in swordsmanship, I turned to Rainbow and Spoke. "How did this come about? Working on recruitments to take over Celestia?"

She giggled before explaining the events leading up to it. Apparently RD was teaching the little shits some judo she learnt at a young age -seeming as neither of them had combat experience- and whilst Thunderlane and Blossom were over seeing it, the lieutenant snapped after half an hour and stated that he couldn't bare to witness such horrible form any longer. So, he asked to burrow a couple wooden swords from the armoury before correcting Rainbows attempt at teaching self defence. To be honest I didn't picture Thunderlane to be the impatient type, but I guess he's just passionate about the topic.

"I see." I nodded in understanding, knowing I'd probably have done the same. However, this was a bit counterproductive regarding my future 'plans'. 

Stepping over to Snipe, I stood in front of him, looking at his posture with the sword. He was a bit off but pretty good. Grabbing the top of the blade, I raised it a bit before walking over to his side -Thunderlane watching me with intruigement as I went. I had a look at his stature from the new point of view before nudging his right foot a bit further away from his left. I was very familiar with the style, as it is the very style Ayato Amagiri used in 'Asterisk war'. I like the technique, as it was a nice balance between offence and defence, but sadly there were no teachers of it. The Amagiri Shinmeiryuu Style.

After I was satisfied, I stepped over to Spike (who now looked a tad nervous) and began looking over his form. Though to my surprise, I found almost nothing to correct.  Just his feet, which were a few centimetres out of place. I scanned desperately around the boy, doing many circles, trying to find any flaw in his stance. But nothing came up. I began forming many ideas in my head for the solution. Maybe he had already learnt it? No, Rainbow said he had no other experience with combat. Maybe Blossomforth was just a great teacher? No, no offence to her but Thunderlane was clearly more fluent in the style. So why is it perfect.

I was brought out from my thought process by a hand being placed on my shoulder. Snapping back to reality, I turned to my left to see RD. "Yes?"

She gave me a worried look and gestured to the boy in front of us. "Dude, you're scaring him." Turning back around, I found Spike still in his pristine form, but now sweating bullets. "You've been staring at him for a couple minutes now." I heard from behind me . 

It was true, only then did I realise I had been staring down the kid. To be honest, I know exactly why I was as well....

Placing a hand on his shoulder, he dropped his stance and turned to me so I could speak. "Sorry about that, just slightly pissed with you." Shaking him a bit, I gave him a large smile, though that didn't calm his nerves considering my last statement.

"W-Why are you pi-," He cleared his throat. "Annoyed?"

Beaming at the beautiful bastard, I wrapped my arm arm around his shoulder and gave him a noogy. "Now where do you get off having a more precise stance than me, a guy who's studied the art for the majority of his life?!" The worst part about it all was that it was true. Now, I've never been a huge sword fanatic, and he did only show one stance (no real combat or strikes) but it was still massively impressive. This kid was a genius.

My words caught the attention of the other two, who walked up to me and Spike with curious looks. Thunderlane looked down at Spike and then back up at me. "Is that true?" I nodded, still punishing Spike for his brilliancy. "And you're one hundred percent certain?"

Finally letting go of him, I leaned into the lieutenants ear and spoke. "I have studied the art of combat for the majority of my life. I was considered a prodigy by my peers. Granted, not once have I ever actually used a sword in real combat, and it is one of my weaker points, but none the less I was considered top of my class. And this boy, who has never picked up a sword in his life, has a stance similar to that of my higher ups."

I leaned back to view his reaction, and he simply stared at the boy in astonishment. Who in response blushed up a storm from the praise he rightfully assumed he was getting. In complete aw, Thunderlane walked up to the boy before speaking. "Mr Sparkle, would you mind taking that stance again?"

"Of course!" Spike smiled and took the stance again as Thunderlane began repeating my earlier actions. I went to join him, but I noticed something in the corner of my eye. Snipe was stood to my right near Dash, with a sad smile on his face, and barely holding the sword that was drooped down next to his side. I saw how hard he was trying to be happy for Spike. I knew the feeling all too well, as it once riddled me. 

That was when I decided to finally test my theory. "Snipe." I called out, looking towards him. He turned his head and saw me gesture with my head to follow me. He didn't say anything, but just trailed behind me as I put some distance between me and the group. "So," I began, turning back to the boy with a few meters between us. "Ever used a bow?"
> 15 Little prodigies
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
Airship deck


"So," I began, turning back to the boy with a few meters between us. "Ever used a bow?"

"No.." He slowly responded.

"Well that's about to change." I exclaimed, before pulling my bow from my lower neck. I decided to name it Chalcedony, as that was my best guess as to what the gem actually was based on its appearance. "Snipe, this is Chalcedony, a weapon of mine." He gazed at it in aw, taking a step closer to get a better look at it. I extended it out to him, and he took it from my hand and began feeling over the crystal material. "Quite the beauty isn't she?" 

"You can say that again......" He was too fixated on the weapon in his arms to even look at me when he spoke, which brought a large smile to my face. He suddenly gained a confused look, as he tilted the bow in his hands and placed a hand where the bowstring should have been. Lifting his head up, he went to ask a question, but I cut him off before he could.

Taking the bow from his hands, I took a step back to gain some distance before speaking. "This isn't any regular piece of equipment, and has no need for such elementary things like bowstrings." 

One night whilst I was training, I figured out how the thing worked, but I was yet to try it at it's max capacity. See, I was going about it wrong. The energy it used to create the arrows was not that of mine, but the suns. I was pissing around a bit when I realised how weak my shots were on some parts of the moon. Namely the areas facing away from the sun. On the contrary, my arrows when I was facing the sun were much more devastating. Although I still made sure to use as little energy as possible as to not accidently make the moon a permanent crescent.

Turning towards the edge of the ship and off the railings, I took a stance as if to fire the bow, but did not release. I formed a sleek, green lightning bolt in my hands, but what was new was the ring that appeared at the head of the arrow. Quirking a brow, having not seen this before, I channelled more energy into the thing, creating more green rings of different patterns and sizes. Realising how the bow worked, I channelled all the energy I could fit into the weapon. The result was eleven rings in total. To be honest I thought there'd be more, but big whoop.

Looking back over to my left, I found that Snipe was now joined by the others as they all looked at me with a glint of curiosity. Deforming the arrow, I walked back up to Snipe as I spoke. "You see, Chalcedony takes energy straight from the sun, and from my understanding, the quantity of energy you can pull from the sun all depends on the users affinity to it." Handing the bow to Spike, he took it a little confused and looked up at me. "Spike, go give it your best shot." I said, tilting my head behind me to where I once stood. 

I took Spikes spot next to Thunderlane as the bot took my previous spot, who whispered in my ear as we looked on at the boy. "Do you think he will be talented with a bow as well as a sword?"

Without looking away from Spike, I gave him my honest opinion. "Nope. He will most likely completely and utterly fail."

"Then why let him try?" He asked, turning his body to the left to face me more.

I smiled and tapped my nose twice. "I'll get to that."

After a few more moments Spike had his stance down (a very amateur one at that) and began to channel as much energy as he could into the bow. However, no dice, as he was only able to create a measly two.

He looked quite annoyed at the outcome, and closed his yes, trying really hard to form more. The flash of a third one appeared but quickly dimmed out shortly after. Walking over to him, I quenched the arrow in my hand before placing a hand on his shoulder to gain his attention. He opened his eyes as I spoke. "Thanks Spike, to be honest that was more than I was expecting." He gave me a satisfied smile and a quick nod before handing me the bow and running back off to the others. "Snipe." I called out, turning to him.

"Yes?" He replied, with a look of sadness evident on his face.

"Your turn." I said, waving my hand over to where I was stood. He made his way to me nervously, as if dreading the outcome. However, I knew that it he would be very pleased by the end of it.

Handing him the bow, he nodded, and did exactly as Spike did. Only this time, he had a form identical to mine. To the very last degree of my feet placement, he was spot on. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath and then released it before pulling back the non-existent string, revealing quite the spectacle. 

I wide smile crawled across my face as I looked on at the boy. Glancing to my left, Spike stood frozen, jaw hanging open. "T-Twenty three.............Twenty three!!!!!!"

It was true, twenty three in total, and the kid didn't even break a sweat!

However, Spikes shout broke his concentration, as he deformed the arrow and looked back to us. "What?" He questioned, probably discarding the possibility the number Spike had shouted was his score. 

I turned to the other three present, and one by one shut there mouths for them as they were gaping at the kid. "Sweet Celestia....." Thunderlane whispered out.

"Did I do something wrong?" Snipe asked slightly worried. 

Turning back to him I waved my hand in the air in a nonchalant way and spoke. "Oh nothing, just completely outshined Spike and more than doubled my best attempt on your first try."

In reaction, the kid joined the others with their faces of shock and squeaked out a sentence barely audible. "M-More than.................double?"

Nodding, I walked over to the Spike and put an arm round his shoulder before leading him over to Snipe. Putting my other arm around Snipe, I asked them a question I was planning to ask after the orientation. Well, more specifically Snipe. "So," I began, "can I assume that the two of you wish to study martial arts and archery?"

"Definitely!"
"Of course!"

"I need you two to understand that once you learn how to fight, it is very difficult to not do so. The art of combat is an ugly one, but one with many boons. So I ask you again, are you two one hundred percent on board?" The two little shits vigorously nod in excitement.

"Right, well there are a few things you should know before hand. You are not to use anything you are taught unless you consult me or someone you think I trust enough before doing so." They nod. "Your training will be tough, especially Spikes, but you may quite at any moment." They nod. "You will always run away from an unnecessary fight, unless you are unable to." They nod. "You will not tell Twilight, because she will kill me." They nod and snigger to themselves. "And finally, live with the mindset of 'If Phoenix did it, it probably isn't a very good idea." The two smile and nod as I let go of them.

"When do we start out training?" Spike asked, eager to wield a sword again.

"Your training will start when we get back, however, I will need confirmation from the Princesses before I begin."

"Why do you need their permission?" Snipe asked.

"Well, let's just say I plan on taking on more than two students." They quirked there brows out me, trying to understand what I meant, but eventually just shrugged it off.

Walking back over to the others with the other two behind me, I found them discussing what they had just seen.

"I get your point, but twenty three is still a lot!" I heard Rainbow Dash say to the other two.

"Indeed," I interjected. "The two of them are quite remarkable. Maybe even prodigies."

Looking to either side of me, I found each one smiling happily at my praise. If all things go to plan, and the Princesses approve of my proposal, these two will have some large shoes to fill.
> 16 Just chinchllin
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
Airship room


After the little lesson with Spike and Snipe, we chatted for a while until dinner rolled by. We were served mac and cheese with scones for dessert. However, I skipped out on the pastries and decided to head straight to my room, giving my goodbyes as I left. 

Once I got to my room, I grabbed a quick shower and threw a towel round my waist once I had finished. Stepping out of the bathroom, I went over to the corner of the room and took a seat on the floor, resting on a pillow next to my luggage. I didn't pack much so It was only one fairly sized bag. And after a moment of meditating, said bag began making a familiar noise as it slightly wobbled. 

Getting used to the whole procedure, I led the case on its side and unzipped it. Opening up the black bag revealed the book of powers atop the luggage where I left it. It wasn't left open, as the green light was seeping out of it. 

Waiting for it to finish, I took note that the process took considerably longer this time. Was this a really good one? Or maybe just really intricate.

Once the glowing had finally faded, I reached a hand out and opened the cover. Flipping the pages one by one, I eventually turned over the newest page to reveal a name I was more than happy to see. 

"Ser-Veresta."

On cue, I gained all of the necessary info on the newest addition to my arsenal. I found closing my eyes and concentrating made the whole process smoother, and gave me less of a headache. Once I had finished, I opened my eyes to see the weapon in front of me. Or should I say, it's handle. 





I picked up the weapon to be, and stood up with it held in my right hand. Looking around it, it looked identical to the one in the show, right down to the last millimetre. It was light for me as expected, but what I didn't expect was how well it fit in my hand. It may as well have been moulded around it. "Frociesta's really pulling here wait nowadays." I mumbled to myself, before taking a few steps back to unleash the swords energy. 

Thankfully I wasn't bounded by the shackles of my long lost sister, so I was able to unleash the sword without the ritual. And in doing so revealed the mighty weapon in all its glory. 





Staring at the blade in aw, I waved in around a few times to find that not only did it feel natural to hold but it felt natural to swing. Moving my left hand closer, I could feel the raw energy coming off of the blade. It left a small burn mark, which healed it self after a sec, just from placing my hand an inch away from the blade. Truly destructive. 

Remembering its other uses, I switched the blade form to a sleek katana. It soon took a more precise shape, and was evidently easier to swing, but placing my hand onto the side of the destructive end proved that it loses its raw power in this form. I'll be sure to use that in battles of speed.

After waving it around once more, I made use of a little touch Frociesta added for me. Reverting it back to just the pommel, I reached over my back with it before letting go. Surely enough, it sat, rested on my back, without falling off. My back wasn't even touching it in fact. There was a gap about an inch thick that I slipped my hand through to see if it stayed. Sure enough, the Ser-Veresta held in place. 

Unsheathing it from my back, I placed it back in my bag for the time being. I doubt I'll need something of this magnitude for anything we encounter on our journey. Grabbing the top half of the bag, I began to close it but stopped once I noticed the book glow once more. It wasn't as strong but still there. 

Cocking a brow, I reopened the bag, and turned the page once more. 

"Power transfer." 

It didn't take long to transfer that info, as it was a simple process. One that I am thankful for. 

Turning the page to check just in case, I found it empty; so I closed the book and zipped up the bag before standing up. All the pieces were falling into place for my plan to protect Equestria, just needed the approval. 

Exiting the room, I opened the door to find the little shits; they were probably just about to enter. "Hey you two, off to bed already?"

"Nah," Spike began, "Twilight asked me to grab you so we could do something fun on the deck."

"I see," I was hoping to get some training in early, but I guess I could skip out, "what are we still doing here then?" The two smiled and we made our way up. Snipe had a question about the bow I was using, but I told him no weapon talk until we get back. Especially when Twilight could be anywhere. 

Once we were at the top we found everyone that came along as well as their guards. They were all stood around in the centre talking amongst themselves. "We got him." Snipe said before running over to the rest of the group. Spike joined him as I slowly walked up to them and gave them a wave. 

"So what's up?" 

Twilight stepped forward with a large smile on her face as she explained. "Pinkie had the idea that we could play some games before we head off to bed. Though, were not sure what to play........."

She looked up at me, probably hoping for a game to play. "Sorry Twi, none of the games I know are suitable for those two." I nodded towards the youngest members of the group.

She sighed before turning to the rest of the group for any ideas, but got nothing. That's when an idea came to mind. 

"Hey guys, all of you got bits on you?" All nodded except Snipe. "Splendid, how would you like to play a betting game? Kids go free of course, I'm no monster."

RD stepped forward with a curious look on her face. "Go on......"

Pulling out a bit from my pocket, I bent it in my fingers to make a ninety degree angle. "Rules are simple, take this coin from me. If you can, I'll give you all the money I have racked up since then. Starting cash grab is twenty bits. Any takers?"

"You're on!" My multicoloured friend exclaimed before pulling out five bits and placing them on a barrel. I nodded and placed twenty bits on top of hers. 

"I'll give you one minute." 

The group formed a circle around us and Spike pulled out his pocket watch to time us before counting down. "Three, two, one, go!"

RD instantly shot towards my right arm, as it was extended out with the coin in between my thumb and index finger. She was faster than I was expecting, but I still managed to raise my hand in time so that she narrowly missed her mark. I heard a triumphant laugh behind me followed by a groan of realisation. Turning around to look at her, I tossed the coin up and down in my hand. "You're pretty fast."

Practically growling at me, she summoned her wings and dashed towards the coin once more. We went on like that for a while until Spike called time. 

"Guess you just didn't have what it takes." I said, with a cocky smirk sprawled across my face.

"We'll see about that!" She seethed, before slamming another five bits onto the barrel. 

Putting my hand up to grab her attention, "You must bet at least one more bit than the last, otherwise it's no fun." She did so and placed one more bit down, albeit not before mumbling a few un-family friendly words to her self.

She made two more attempts but also failed both of them, but on her fourth, I noticed something that shocked me. Not only was she moving a considerable amount faster, but you could faintly see tears in her eyes. At first I thought it was due to the wind pressure, but the look on her face was undeniable. 

Frowning a bit, I murmured 'Mind reading' under my breath to see what was going threw her head.

How is he so fast?! Speed is my thing! It's my special talent! I don't have anything else. Rarity's gonna think I'm super lame! Come on Rainbow, jut a bit faster!

Well this isn't a great position to be in. I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place. One, I let her win and she walks back with the cash, however I gave her the win and she'd kill me if she found out; or two, I beat her for a fourth time and she takes a serious hit to her self confidence. I can't win!

Running plans through my head, I began trying to find the best out come whilst also dodging RD still. Then it hit me. It would require just the right timing, but it would do.

Spike called out there was fifteen seconds on the clock, so I dodged a few more grabs until the time was just right. Once there were only ten seconds on the clock, I waited for her final jump with my hand out in front of me and the coin in my palm. However, Rainbow just stopped. She didn't make a move, but just looked down at the ground in frustration and sadness. No one noticed but me thankfully.

Well, me and one else. "Go get him Darling!" Rainbow perked up, and looked behind me to see Rarity with her fists clenched and slightly bent knees. She was holding her breath, obviously hoping for RD to win. Who in turn stood still with a surprised expression.

"Five seconds!" Spike called out, snapping Dash out of her stupor. She gained a determined look and a large smile before she took a stance in the air, wings glowing brighter than before. I didn't move my palm from in front of me, but instead waited for her approach. And after a moment of adjusting, she burst forwards at a speed twice her original. She reached out her hand to grab it, and I reposition the coin in my hand so that it was placed between my thumb and index once again. She managed to grab a hold of it as soon as the timer went off, but lacked the strength to take it from my hands.

Spike walked over to the two of us to see us both holding the coin. He looked in amazement before uttering in an unsure tone. "Tie?"

I nodded. "In the event of a tie, the challenger gets their money back and we pretend the match never happened"

"Okay." Spike said before moving to the stash of bits and handing them back to RD. She slowly took them and placed them in her pocket with a sad look on her face. Not wanting to put a damper on her moral, I placed my hands on her shoulders before speaking. 

"Why'd you look so down? You just matched Equestria's most powerful fighter in speed." Leaning into her ear, I whispered so no one else over heard. "And between me and you, I've never lost at that game, nor have I ever tied." 

Leaning back, her satisfied grin returned as she punched me in the gut. "Guess I still am the coolest." 

I chuckled and ruffled her hair. "Tell me that when you win."

"I'm gonna make you eat those words." We laughed together for a sec, before I heard the sound of heals from behind me. Rarity ran past and wrapped Rainbow in a hug.

"That was just wonderful, truly brilliant Darling!" I walked away from the two and over to the stash of bits to collect it for myself. However, I was cut off when someone slammed eight bits down on the barrel. Looking up I found Applejack, grinning at me with determination in her eyes. I matched her look, and we made our way over to the middle.

We continued to play for a few hours, with Applejack, Thunderlane, Blossomforth, Crusty, and Shining being the main contestants. Each using their own method such as martial arts, wit, and duking me, however none came close. The kids gave it a shot too, but neither had any form of plan and went in with the mind set of 'just take the coin away from him'. In the end I took the money and handed it to the captain as a tip. He tried to refuse but I insisted so he ended up accepting the money. Spike and Snipe went to bed and the girls went to Pinkies room to have a sleep over, including Cadence and Blossom. I instructed all the personal guards to rest up, but Thunderlane and Crusty said they didn't need it. And so, all who remained were me, Crusty, the lieutenant and Shining. All being men of combat, we decided to go up to the crows nest and share some stories, but not before grabbing Swerve and Swivel. 

We spoke and drank until around quarter to twelve. Though, only me and Shining opted for the alcoholic beverages, as the others were on the job. We didn't get hammered or anything, but we had a few cans between us. It reminded me of home, with the crew.

Once we noticed how late it had gotten we got up and made our way to our rooms, promising to do it again sometime. I quietly snuck into my room, Spike and Snipe fast asleep, and laid down in the corner with my pillow. I ran over some things in my head, before finally catching some Zs. 

Waking up from a dreamless slumber, I sat up and stretched my arms before standing. I began my morning stretches and all that jazz, before I heard the sound of yawning from my right. I looked over to see the little shits had sat up and began clearing the sleepy dust from their eyes. 

"Mornin' boys."

"Morning Phoenix."
"Morning Phoenix."

Shortly after the greeting, a bright flash took over the room, leaving four cloaked figures standing between me and my roommates.

"Shit, wrong room." The one closest to me spoke, before each of them sprouted kagune.

"Who cares, let's just kill them too." One of them responded, before turning to me. Judging form their voice, I assumed they were female. She had a yellow koukaku that came down her left arm.

Stepping towards me, she swung the blade, aiming for my left shoulder. I turned and grabbed the blade with my left hand before shattering it. Then, turning to the now horrified ghoul, I put on my best Shreck impression and spoke. "Heh, like that's ever gonna happen."
> 17 Touching down
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
Airship room


Then, turning to the now horrified ghoul, I put on my best Shreck impression and spoke. "Heh, like that's ever gonna happen."

The female ghoul backed up after I let go of her koukaku, and from behind her came three crystal bolts. I stopped them with my telekinesis before sending them back at the user and landing them in his right thigh, dropping him to a knee. Running past the group at full speed, I grabbed the two boys, flung them over my shoulders, waltzed over to the door, and threw them out. After closing the door behind them, I span around to see my company ready for battle.

"Right, now where was I?"

A rain of bolts came down towards me, as two of the users were ukaku wielders. Levitating and dropping any shards coming my way, I slowly made my way towards the group. Summoning Shadowfall to my hand, I made quick work of the koukaku I had wounded before, and used my blood bending to internally puncture the other ghoul in between me and their backup. 

The two fell to the ground as I walked past them and over to the ukakus. They had stopped their borage at this point, and were slowly backing away from me in fear. The one I had injured was limping with the other one helping him stand up. Using air bending, I blew their hoods off to reveal a middle aged man and a woman with similar looks and matching red hair. They both had multiple scars across their faces, and both of them had a missing ear. They looked petrified to say the least.

"Names." I said in a cold tone to keep up the intimidating act.

"N-Nissa Dreven," They woman spouted, "a-and this is my brother, Oliver Dreven."

Siblings huh. "Surrender now and I'll let you live."

A look of hope came to their faces upon my words. "R-Really?" Oliver asked. I nodded.

The two leaped to the floor, bowing and kissing my feet. "Thank you! Thank you so much!" 

Thunderlane, Blossomforth and Crusty burst threw the door at that moment along with many other guards. I turned around to look at them as the lieutenant spoke in an official tone. "Phoenix is everything-!" He stopped once he took in the scene and gave me a confused/weirded out look.

Sighing, "Thunderlane, I know what this looks like, but this was of their own volition." I stepped away from the Drevens and made my way to the lieutenant.

"Whatever you say......"

I slapped him on the shoulder for even thinking I was such a man before speaking, now standing just to his left. "I'll explain later, but these two have handed themselves in, treat them with care."

"Yes sir." 

He, and Blossom moved over to the two, and I saw some other guards walk over to the corpses as I left. I walked out of the room to find my friends just down the hallway, all with blunt objects in there hands (except Shining who had a longsword). I assumed Shining put his family and fiancés lives first and decided to hold back and protect them, which I couldn't blame him for.

I spoke in an official tone to the group. "The situation has been dealt with, please go back to what you were doing." Some went to question me, but the look I gave them prompted otherwise. They began to turn and leave, but I grabbed Shining and Cadences' attention with a shout before they could leave.

"Yes sir?" Shining stopped and turned to look at me along with the princess.

"My I have a word with you two in private?" 

"Of course." I gestured for them to follow me and  the two did so without question. We came to the top deck were I took a seat on the railing. The two staid stood up in front of me. "To cut a long story short," I began, "I have reason to believe that Princess Cadence was the assassins target."

"What!?"
"What!?"

"I'll explain. We all know the assassins entered via teleportation, and appeared in my room. At first I thought they were after revenge for the other ghouls I had disposed of, but after they teleported in, one of them said that they were in the wrong room. That ruled me and the boys out, and I doubt it's the element bearers as from what I've heard they have yet to fight any ghouls. It could've been the lieutenant or sergeant Blossomforth but I ruled that out by the fact the remaining ghouls evidently didn't recognise him. Now, it wouldn't be unlikely that someone would attack the head of the army, but I think the most reasonable explanation would be that they were after one of the Princesses, especially considering the lack of defence built onto this vessel." I tapped the railing with my hand as I finished. The two had listened to it all carefully, and Cadence began looking more and more worried as I went on. Shining was surprisingly calm about the situation, which told me that he was confident in his combat abilities. 

"So what do you suggest we do?" Shining asked, interlocking his fingers with Cadences. 

I thought about the question for a second before answering. "I'll speak to the captain about how I think the guards should be placed. We can't rule out someone else being the target entirely, or maybe it's the entire ship. But for now just stick close to each other and pass on the information to the others."

They nodded, and Cadence spoke. "Should we tell the boys?"

"Of course. They're old enough to handle themselves as well as anyone else on this ship."

"But Spikes only thirteen!" Cadence shouted in shock. "And Snipe doesn't look much older."

I gave her a blank stare that probably came across worse than it was intended to. "By that age I was taking lives." She gasped at my confession and placed her hands over her mouth. Shining's eyes widened a little, but he gave a look of understanding. "I don't expect those two to do battle or anything, but not telling them won't benefit us. At least they'd be prepared to run." They nodded before taking their leave, whispering to them selves as they walked. I sighed, lazily standing my self up off of the railing and making my way to captains quarters. "Can't I just wake up normally for once?" I mumbled, before knocking on the door.

"Come in!"

I stepped inside to find Swerve and Swivel looking over a map on a table with their backs facing me. "Mornin'"

"Mornin'"
"Mornin'"

They didn't turn around so I walked up to the two and stood next to Swerve, Swivel just to his right. "Heard about the attack this morning?" They both turned their heads to look at me in confusion. 

"What?" Swivel asked.

I explained what happened, and they thanked me for minimising any damage done. I told them to place one guard outside every door, with only me, the captain, Shining, and Thunderlane being aloud to excuse them; they said it would be done. After finally telling them about my suspicions about the target, they got to work (making sure to place their most adept soldier outside of the princesses and Shining's room). I left the room, and made my way back to my room. The mess had been cleared up, and a crewmate informed me that the remaining ghouls had been taken to the cellar. 

The rest of the day went on without a hitch. Spike notified the Princesses via some green flame thingy, and they thanked us for letting them know. I spent most of the day in my room working out and meditating, but I did step out to play some soccer on the top deck. It was me, the little shits, RD, Pinkie and Applejack; boys vs girls. We won 3 three to one with a goal each. Then after grabbing dinner we all went off to do out own thing. My thing being training. After about three hours or so, I called it a day and hit the hay.

The next four days past pretty much the same, minus the whole assassination attempt. I taught Twilight some more Japanese, drew some animals from earth for Fluttershy, told Rarity about some cloths I used to wear that I had yet to see here, showed Pinkie how I could make a cake with nothing but chocolate and eggs because she didn't believe me, taught Rainbow a bit about aerodynamics to help her fly faster, and discussed different harvesting techniques with Applejack. I was beginning to get to know them all a bit better as individuals.

Today was the day we arrive at the Griffon Kingdom. Everyone was atop deck with their luggage on hand. We were descending rapidly towards what I assumed to be the docks.

"Excuse me, may I have your attention." I said, in a loud tone so everyone could here. Everyone turned to look at me (The main six, the kids, Crusty, Thunderlane and Blossomforth), as I was at the back of the group. "I'm going to be blunt with you all, Snipe has three options." I gestured for him to step forward and he did. "Firstly, Snipe, you can flee. Flee to a far away land where they'll never find you."

"Don't tell the boy that!" Applejack shouted in disapproval. She took a step forward and looked at me in slight anger.

I put my hand up and gave her a look to say that I wasn't finished. She stepped back but still looked miffed. "Secondly, I bust in there, slaughter anyone who refuses to let you go, and make an enemy out of the griffon kingdom."

"Phoenix!" Rarity and Applejack shouted. I think the lack of smile on my face told them that I was being dead serious.

"I'm not done!" I retorted. Rainbow placed a hand on Raritys shoulder and Twi did the same for AJ. They calmed down a bit but looked just about ready to slap me. "And third," I started, placing both my hands on Snipes shoulders. "You become my very first student, and I show you how to beat your competition with ease, crowning you as the next griffon king." Everyone gasped at my proposal except Shining and Thunderlane, which was just about what I expected.

I was going to train up a new generation of fighters anyway, but I was gonna do it with kids at least sixteen. The reason being is that I can't save everyone, and I found that out the hard way, but if I raise a group of ten or so exceptionally skilled fighters, I can retire early and let them carry the torch; though, I'll probably be forced to fight for hundreds of years to come. Sixteen is the perfect age to learn combat. You're old enough to have gained a moral compass, you're in your prime physical health wise, you learn very quickly, and you can live on to save people for many years to come.

"Now Snipe, I am in no way forcing you, and you can say no at any time if you do agree. I know you wanted me to teach you anyway, but now you're learning to survive, not fight. Obviously I won't have you do anything you're not comfortable with, and I promise I won't work you past what I think you can achieve, but it will be tough." Snipe looked very torn between, and slightly scared. "Don't worry, you'll have until we return to Equestria to think about it." He nodded, before walking off over to Rainbow, who rapped an arm around him and spoke words of encouragement. I noticed Rainbow had become some what of his guardian. I'm pretty sure he's staying at her house too, whereas he used to live at the orphanage.

I watched as he walked away, and in the corner of my eye I could see a familiar fashionista and farmer making their way towards me. I turned to Rarity, and quickly stopped her right hand before it could make contact with my face. "Unhand me!" She shouted in anger. I did so, and she went to slap me again. 

Taking a step back to dodge it, I spoke in a calm tone and made sure to not come across as threatening. "You don't want to do that Rarity, Fluttershy can vouch." The purple haired woman turned to Fluttershy in slight confusion, and she shook her head. "Rarity, Applejack, I know you're against my options, but what else can I do? Training Snipe results in the least amount of casualties, and that's always the main objective." 

"Ah understand that," Applejack started, "but he's too young! He should be playing sports or worrying about his next assignment at his age! Granted he doesn't go to school, but this isn't fair on him!"

Now slightly miffed that she brought up fairness, "If he says he doesn't want to, then he doesn't have to. This is his call, and I will support his decision. I'd like a different outcome, I really would, but I haven't been dealt a very good hand."

She went to respond but was cut off by a voice to my right. "Excuse me." We both turned and saw Spike with a determined look on his face. "Phoenix, if you're going to teach Snipe, then I would like you to teach me as well."

"Spike!" Twilight cried from behind him. She stormed over to him in shock and turned him around to look at her. "Fighting is very dangerous, and you could get severely hurt! Why in Celestia's name would you want to do it! You never had an interest in it before!"

"Well," Spike began rubbing his arm, knowing that Twilight wouldn't like what he was about to say. "I can't let Snipe go through all this by himself......."

Twi froze and turned to Snipe. He had been watching the entire encounter with mixed emotions, and was currently beaming at Spike. Probably realising she couldn't stop him, Twilight sighed and ruffled Spikes hair. "I see." Spike stood, awaiting for the idea to be shut down. "Well in that case I guess I can't say no." 

"Really?!"

"You are almost an adult now Spike, well, at least in human years." What? The kids thirteen?! "You can make your own decisions. However!" She let go of the boy and made her way over to me, now stood only a foot away from my chest. "You mister, have to promise me Spike won't get hurt."

Looking at the Spike and then back to her, I sighed and answered. "I can't do that." She went to respond but I continued. "I'd be lying to you if I said that Spike wouldn't get hurt. He'll probably feel like jelly for a good while. Hell, I'm doubt he'll be able to lift his arms. But I can promise you that all of that pain will make him stronger. Nothing more nothing less."

Shining stepped over to us and gave his take. "I believe what Phoenix is saying is right, and I support Spikes decision to study the art of combat. Twily, do you think my shields would be as strong as they are if my higher didn't drag me through hell?" She shook her head. 

I nodded to Shining in thanks for tipping the scales, and then turned back to Spike. "I'd be happy to train you Spike, though, Snipe hasn't made his decision yet. But if he says no and you still-"

"I'll do it!" I was cut off by a voice to my right. Everyone turned to the voice to see Snipe, looking just as determined as Spike. "I'll learn how to fight!"

Smiling at him, I walked over and rapped an arm round his shoulder. "That's good to hear! You two will be fine fighters." Letting go of him, I gestured for Spike to come over. He did so and give Snipe a fist bump. Placing a hand on both of their outer shoulders, I spoke, everyone watching intently. "You're training will start once you both correctly answer my question. You can not look to anyone but each other for the answer."

"Okay..."
"Okay..."

"Two fighters are in an arena. Fighter A, and Fighter B. They both fall down. Which one wins?"

The two looked confused for a moment before nodding. I released their shoulders and they walked off to discuss it. 

"I believe they will do well." I turned to see Shining and Cadence. 

"Let's hope so."

Just then, Swivel came out from the captains quarters and whispered something to Swerve. He nodded and looked to us all before speaking in a loud voice. "We will be touching down shortly! I advise holding onto something and or sitting down!"

The girls giggled for some reason before grabbing hold of the railing.  They all looked down with their hair blowing in the wind. And after a few moments we made contact with the ocean, and began slowly sailing towards the island in the distance.
> 18 Arrival
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
Airship deck


Soon, we were at the island, awaiting the bridge to be placed down so we could exit. Looking around the area, it was highly similar to the town I had been in before hand, but with many rows of docks lining all the way over the horizon. Many palm trees lined the coastal area where we were docked, with many angler houses dotted around. Surprisingly, the area was fairly empty, with only a small amount of boats parked; even then they weren't being manned. 

Once the bridge had been set and held still with magic, a few guards made their way down, followed by the rest of us. Rarity insisted that she held onto someone's arm in case she fell, and of course RD jumped right on that boat, offering her services. The rest of the main six thought it wise too, Applejack and Pinkie holding onto Thunderlane's arm (applejack seemed to already know the lieutenant, and Pinkie gave zero shits about personal space), Twilight holding onto her assistants arm, and Fluttershy on mine. Blossom also felt left out, so she clung to Snipe with a pout.

"I have one more arm if you're feeling left out?" I said, turning to Crusty before we made our way down. He chuckled at my remark and gave me a slap on the back of my head. 

"Respect your elders kid!" We both gave a laugh before making our way down the slope, followed shortly by Shining, Cadence, and a few more guards. 

Once at the bottom, the girls separated from the others, and began looking over the scenery in aw. Snipe and Spike, however, didn't spare it a glance, but instead talked between each other, probably trying to figure out the answer to my question. The four guards with us, not including Thunderlane, Blossom or Crusty, formed a square around the group.

I noticed that there was a distinct lack of people here, and the ones that were, were eyeing us with varied expressions. Fear, wander, impartialness, or straight up disgust. Though, none of them approached, and made sure to stay clear of the dock we were stood on. 

Suddenly, a flash appeared to my right, gaining my attention. Turning around revealed six griffons, four of which in matching armour. I took a step towards them as did Shining and Cadence, and the rest just eyed the six. 

"Greetings, guests, it is an honour to meet you." A man said, bowing. He wasn't wearing a uniform like the other men, but instead donned a black and green robe, only one strap reaching over his shoulder. I could see his toned body along with a few scars that accompanied it. He was around the same height as me, with short scruffy black hair and a small stubble. But, the most intriguing thing was the crown neatly placed on his head. It seemed to be made of some kind of black vine, with a few green roses growing around it.

Going to respond, I was cut off by Cadence as she stepped in front of the man. "No need to bow to us, Prince Chiron. I'd like to think Equestria and Griffinstone are on good terms."

"Indeed we are Princess Cadence, but it is never wrong to welcome your guests with respect." The Prince said, raising his head and placing out his hand. Cadence shook it with a large smile on her face. "It is great to see you Cadence."

"And you, baby Chiron." Cadence spoke, releasing his hand and ruffling his hair. She had to go on her toes and stretch a fair bit to do it. 

A guard stepped in to stop her, but Chiron motioned for them to holt and spoke. "It is fine, Sergeant Breakneck, Princess Cadence has done many things for me, and is an ally to Griffinstone." Cadence giggled at him for the praise and the guard stepped down.

"Now what could she have done to put you on head patting terms?" Shining said, stepping towards the two with a smirk. 

Turning to her fiancé, the Princess latched onto his arm before speaking. "When I was a bit younger, I was asked to baby sit little Chiron once and a while. I still remember the days when he used to attach carrots to his head and run around screaming, 'Look auntie I'm a unicorn!'."

Chiron looked down in embarrassment, a light blush on his cheeks. "Did he now?" The woman to his left asked. "You'll have to tell me about that sometime."

Raising his head, the Prince looked like he had a realisation, before speaking. "Ah, I almost forgot. Auntie Cadence, meet my wife Rhea." He gestured to the woman next to him, before placing a kiss on her cheek. She was also fairly tall, with long brown hair and deep green eyes. She was wearing a cactus green robe, that outlined all her features in all the right ways.

Cadence and Rhea shared pleasantries, before Cadence introduced them to Shining. It took a moment for the two to finish catching up with each other, but after a moment they got down to business. 

"So can I assume you're here to escort us?" Shining asked.

Chiron perked up at the question before responding. "Indeed! We have come to show you to the castle." 

"Wonderful," Cadence began, "and I can tell Rhea all the stories about you while we walk." Rhea squeaked in excitement, and the Prince just simply sighed before turning around. 

"Let us be off then." 

The walk there wasn't too long, and we weren't interrupted at all. Though, as we walked through town, many citizens began chanting Chiron's name, as well as Snipe's. He felt uncomfortable, so he put his cloaks hood up and walked in the middle of the group. I found it odd that the Prince didn't even approach Snipe, but I chalked it up to him being too focused on his reunion with his 'auntie'. He did, however, bring up a recent break in at the kingdoms castle. I made sure to stay at the back of the group for that discussion. 

Once we made it to the castle, I faked shock at the size as we came to the front gates. There we were met with a couple of griffin maids, Lechuza and Berry, who showed us to our rooms. Chiron and Rhea said they had places to be, so they left us after we met up with the maids; though, he still hadn't approached Snipe. Once we arrived at our rooms, we found that it was split between genders, as there were only two available rooms close enough for us to visit. 

"And this is the men's quarters." Berry said, opening the door for us. She was on the short side, and wore a maid outfit you'd expect to find somewhere in England hundreds of years ago. She had long red hair, reaching past her shoulders, and had freckles on her cheeks. Lechuza, in contrast, was rather tall, and also wore your average maid get up; though this time with more emphasis on her impressive chest. She had long purple hair, and gave of a kind of 'mature woman' vibe.

All the men clambered into the large room, with me at the back. I nodded to Berry on the way past before entering the room myself. It was very spacious, with a fireplace on one of the walls. There was a step down to a sofa and coffee table, with what appeared to be a projector sheet above the fireplace. The room was lit by a dim light, and it was rather dark outside, making the view from the balcony at the back all the more stunning. 

"Well if you don't need anything else, that'll be all." Berry stated, bowing to us. 

"One thing," Thunderlane began. "When will we be expected to arrive at..... scratch that, where are we actually supposed to go?" 

"Either me or Lechuza will wake you up, and escort you to the banquet hall." Berry stated. "Will that be all?"

I looked to the rest of the group for a moment, before turning back to her and speaking. "Indeed. Thank you for your services." I nodded to her in appreciation, which for some reason garnered a blush, before she took her leave. "Whelp," I said, clapping my hands together and turning to the rest of the group. "Time to explore."
> 19 Cooking
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
Griffin kingdom guest room


"Whelp," I said, clapping my hands together and turning to the rest of the group. "Time to explore."

We found four bedrooms -one being a master bedroom- in the apartment, along with three toilets, multiple walk-in closets, a kitchen, and a hot tub on the overly sized balcony. In short, we were in paradise. 

"So," I began, once we had all met back up in the main room. "Who's sleep in the master bedroom?" The men looked at each other, sparkles in their eyes, slowly adjusting there feet. And suddenly they were off. 

Snipe and Spike were the closest to the room, but Spike tripped up the griffin to give him an edge. However, Snipe retaliated by pulling Spike down to the ground with him. Shining then jumped over the two, but was cut short by a large gust of wind blowing him back. I turned to see Thunderlane with a smirk on his face. The lieutenant began his way to the room in a light triumphant jog, but was promptly stopped by a tug to the leg. He turned down to see Spike and Snipe had finished wrestling and the dragon had grabbed a hold of him. This gave Crusty the opportunity to make a bee line for the bedroom. 

Everyone's faces turned to ones of shock as the old captain ran. Spike and Snipe were too far away (and on the floor) to stop him, Thunderlane was trying to release Spikes grip on him, and Shining was still attempting to escape his prison of wind. Meanwhile I stood still, watching as the events played out.

Deciding to ruin my friendship will Crusty, I sprinted into the room after grabbing my luggage off the ground, but to everyone else it looked like I straight up just teleported. Once there, I quickly unzipped my suitcase and began unloading it into the nearest dresser, as if I had been there the entire time. Crusty soon bounded in with a large smirk on his face. One that instantly fell upon seeing me.

"Phoenix you bastard!" Crusty shouted in annoyance, but with a wide grin on his face. 

"God speed my friend." We both chuckled to ourselves before the rest walked in. 

They all looked surprised for a moment, before sighing. "Shoulda seen that coming." Snipe noted, turning out of the room in defeat along with Spike.

"Toodals!" I waved goodbye to add insult to injury. The other three left soon after, but I gave a Crusty a quick heads up. "Gimme a sec to unpack and I'll whip us up something to eat, sound good?"

"Works for me," He placed a hand on his stomach and rubbed. "I'm starving." He turned around to leave as he spoke. "I'll go tell the others, and your cooking better be good!" He had already left the room as he finished, so I just smiled and got to unpacking. 

"Feels like the good old days...."

Once I had finished unpacking I made my way to the kitchen, where I found Shining lounging on a sofa with his head on the end facing me. He tilted his head so that he was looking at me upside down; he was holding an ice pack to his forehead. "Oh hey Phoenix."

"Headache?"

"Yeah, after getting used to swaying around on the air ship, my body feels weird stood on solid ground." He sighed. "Anyways, Crusty said something about you cooking?"

"Indeed," I confirmed, walking behind the counter and opening the fridge. "What we feeling today? Looks like was got a variety of veg, and a bit of corn meat." I continued to rummage through, though I decided against mentioning the turkey in the freezer. 

"Anything's good, soldiers can't be picky!" 

"How about..... Roquefort and caramelized Onion Tart?" I asked, before pulling out some potatoes. "I could also make some fries and a salad to go with it."

"What's a, rockfour?" He asked, getting off the sofa and making his way towards the other side of the counter. 

"Roquefort, Shining, it's a type of blue cheese. There seems to be quite the some in here." I opened the fridge further so he could see, he squinted his eyes. 

"Are you sure that's not just mouldy cheese?" 

Chuckling to myself, I waved off his question and began preparing the counter top. "This shouldn't take long, could you set up the table?"


A while little later


We were all sat together, our food dotted around the the large rectangular table. I had prepared two bowls of chips, one spicy one not, two bowls of salad, and three large tarts; each of the tarts had a different variation of herbs. "Bon apatite!" We all dug in, before everyone began dishing out their compliments to the chef. All in all I think I did well, and it was a wonderful meal.


Twilight's point of view
Griffin kingdom guest room


We were all sat around in Pinkie's room, except Rainbow who was still unpacking the many weights that she felt the need to bring along. Pinkie had the master room because she had won the race there; I still have no idea how she managed to outrun RD. "So uhhh, anyone here know how to cook?" I asked, worried that we were going to have to rely on Pinkies baking abilities. 

"Nope." 
"Nu uh."
"Not me."

"Applejack? You cook a lot, right?" I asked, a glimmer of hope in my eye.

"Uhhh, sorry Twi, but if it ain't got nothing to do with apples, then I can't help yer there." She finished with a weak chuckle, rubbing the back of her neck.

"Cadence? You used to cook for Spike when you babysat him, surely you remember something." I practically pleaded, my hope quickly fading.

The princess slightly blushed at my question, and started looking everywhere but at me. "Yeah....... I kinda just uhhh, bought premade meals and heated them up I your microwave.... hehe." 

"So....... none of us can cook?" They all shook there heads. "Seriously?! At least one of us should be able to!"

"I'm afraid not Darling." Rarity began. "Sweetie Belle usually does the cooking around the house, Fluttershy likes that one café down her road, Granny cooks for AJ, Cadence has her butlers, poor Blossom has army rations, you have Spike, and Pinkie.... well, she's Pinkie." The pink haired ball of energy beamed at Rarity's remark. "I'm afraid none of us have ever had the need to learn how to cook." She looked down slightly ashamed.

"Well that changes today!" I got up from my position on the bed, and stood up on it as I spoke. "Today, we shall overcome this challenge! With our hard work and combined knowledge, we shall make ourselves a meal! And show everyone how independent we can be as woman! Who's with me?!"

"Yeah!!!"
"Yeah!!!"
"Yeah!!!"
"Yeah!!!"
"Yeah!!!"
"Yeah!!!"

All the girls were now stood up, and pumped to get started. "Now to the kitchen!" We all left the room and made our way down the corridor with determined grins on our faces. We were going to prove to the world how reliable us girls could be!

However, we entered the kitchen to see something that shocked us all. "Hey guys! Found some noodles in a cabinet so I decided to whip us up something to eat!" Rainbow was stood at the oven, apron on and dreidel in hand. She was slowly mixing something in a metal pot over the stove that was emitting the most heavenly aroma. "Guys? You okay?"

All of us simply stared at RD, stunned, with our mouths open wide. Shortly after, Pinkie bounded to the floor in a bow. 

"Our saviour!!"
> 20 A biased guard
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
Griffin kingdom guest room


Everyone had just gone to bed, storing their energy for tomorrows events. Berry had popped in shortly after our dinner to inform is that we'd be picked up tomorrow morning to be brought to the arena. She then quickly took her leave, and everyone decided to play some cards. After a couple hours, we went back to our rooms to rest.

"What to do....?" I mumbled to myself, pacing around my room. Eventually I sat down at a desk in the corner, and began just thinking; I was running through everything that had happened over the past week or so. I haven't been in this world for long, yet I've already been tasked with escorting a princess and the head of military to a foreign country. A few things could be going on behind the scenes, one being that Celestia and Luna just have the upmost trust in me. This world that I've been delivered to is odd, to say the least. The princesses could be desperate, but the fact that they'd risk sending me away from ponyville means that they have other forces capable of taking care of the ghouls. Sure I planted Chastiefol there but they didn't know I was planning to do that until I was about to leave. They have other forces at disposal, like the Shadow Stars, however they sent me on this assignment. Maybe to test me? No, if they wanted to do that they would have sent me on a mission with less weight to it. If things go south, Equestria could easily end up at war with the Griffin Empire, so they must trust that I'm on their side. That being said, I still worry about how quickly they trusted me. What if there's a fang on the inside? If they trust everyone this quickly, then it would be scarily easy to climb your way up to a close spot next to them, whether that be Duke, Knight, or even a Shadow Star............

Deciding to leave the pondering until after, I got up from my seat and walked over to my bed, king size by the way, before hitting the hay. 

It was the next day, and the group and I were stood by the entrance to the arena. "The contestant will be escorted to the waiting room, the rest of you can head on inside." A guard informed us. We came up to a large corridor with a room to our right and the seating area for the arena up ahead. I turned to the group and gave them a nod towards the seating area, and they all reluctantly began their way over. But not before a few hugs and bro fists with Snipe.

Applejack turned back as she was walking, as the others continued, and gave me a confused look. "Yer comin' or what?" 

"I was just gonna have a word with this guard here." I gestured to the guard in question.

"If ya say so." Applejack gave the two of us a wave before catching up to the others. 

"What d'ya need?" The guard asked. 

"I'd like to escort Snipe myself if that's alright." I turned to him fully with my hands behind my back. He was around 6,4 on estimate, so a bit taller than me, and wore Egyptian style robes. Just like the guards at the main entrance, a large cutlass was sat on his back, a few chips along the blade. 

"I'm afraid I can't allow that sir." His response was blunt, as her looked down at me. It was an odd feeling being shorter than someone, as I was quite tall in my original body as well, but I can't say I enjoyed it.

"And why is that?"

He glanced to Snipe with a cold look; in response the boy stepped behind me in fear. He then looked back to me with disgust evident in his voice. "To put it simply, their is no chance I'm letting this runt get any extra help in beating Yakky. He may be a griffin, but he is no citizen of the Griffin Empire. To think a traitor like him would be elected by the gods...." He mumbled the last part, but I still made it out. And I was ticked.

"So what you're saying, is that it's not official rules, correct?" I quirked a brow at him as I continued. "So........ there is no reason for me not to go in there."

The hulking man was growing more irritated by the second, and grit his teeth as he spoke. "If I say you're not to escort him, then you bloody well won't!"

"Easy. Easy." I heard from my right. I turned to see Chiron and his wife approaching us, both looking as if they were on cloud nine. The prince gave me a warm smile before turning to the guard with his eyes closed. "Is there a problem here?"

"P-Prince Chiron! Lady Rhea!" He stuttered out his response before instantly dropping to a knee. "Forgive me! I was just dealing with these two foreigners. 

" 'Dealing', hmm? Would you still use the same word if I told you that you were 'dealing' with the knight of Equestria, as well as the first phoenix?" It was unnerving hearing such a threatening tone through a smiling pair of lips. He didn't falter once, as he slowly approached the kneeling man. The guard, however, was looking everywhere but the Prince, sweating buckets whilst he was at it. What I wanna know, is what the fuck did Chiron do to garner this kinda reaction?

The guard practically froze in place upon hearing who he had been disrespecting. He slowly turned to look up at the Prince with horror etched onto his face. "Th-The first?" Chiron nodded. "I-I........" The terrified griffin turned to me and Snipe before leaping to the floor in a bow. He whaled about how sorry he was for a moment, before Chiron spoke in a calm and quite voice

"Be quite." The guard froze once more and instantly stopped his pleading. Chiron then turned to the Snipe and gave a small bow. "Apologies, this bafoon obviously doesn't understand the weight behind being the first Phoenix. I think it's only fair for you to decide his punishment. Don't you agree Rhea?" 

"It only makes sense!" 

Chiron finally opened his eyes for the first time during the interaction and eyed me. "What say you? Knight of Equestria?" 

I shrugged and looked down at Snipe. "Couldn't give two shits. Your call Snipe." The boy stepped out from behind me and looked down at the guard. The guard slowly looked up at him with a pleading look on his face. 

"I pick......" Snipe grew a dead face as he stared down at the man with pure distaste. "Prison for life."

I stared at the child in disbelief, and I was joined by the prince and his wife. "Are... you sure about that Snipe?" I asked, surprised by the order.

"Just playing." Snipe looked up at Chiron with a large smile as he spoke. "Have him do thirty laps around town in a bikini."

I smiled at the boy, but the prince just looked even more horrified. "I'm not sure what's worse........." He mumbled, before turning to the guard. "You heard the boy, get to it!"

The man scrambled to his feet before bowing to us all individually. He then took his leave, stumbling on his way out. 

"You are one cruel boy." I said, ruffling Snipe's hair.

"Sorry about that you two, the guards here are a little biased towards the competition if you couldn't tell." The prince one again gave a small bow to the two of us as he spoke. "Sorry to cut it short, but you'll be needed in there soon, so you better be on you way."

"Thanks for the heads up, see you around." I gave him a playful salute, and the two smiled and took their leave. "Whelp," I began, looking towards the contestant. "Guess it's apparent that you aren't the fan favourite to win." 

Snipe chuckled and looked up at me. "You think?"
> 21 Waiting room
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Phoenix's point of view
Griffin castle hallway


Not many words were exchanged as me and Snipe travelled through the hall. No words needed to be said. I was going to encourage him, or even reassure him, but the look in his face told me that it wasn't necessary. Once we reached the end of the long, straight hall, the two of us came across a pair of large double doors, lined with gold and a red velvet front. The handles to open the doors were models of the more traditional looking Griffin, with ruby eyes and white crystal teeth. 

Glancing towards Snipe, I saw him fidgeting with the bottom of his cloak, and the energy levels coming from his back were growing higher. I placed a hand on his head and gave it a shake, before kicking down the obviously pull doors. "The cavalry has arrived!" I announced, waltzing into the room of now pissed off warriors. The first thing I noticed was the immense amount of energy coming from each of the fighters. All the respected fighters seemed to have already arrived.

"That's one way to make an entrance." Looking to my right, I saw a young looking man sat on a sofa. He had long purple hair, and carried a cutlass on his side. His purple robes matched the Egyptian style get up the rest of the griffins had, and his skin tone was also similar, however he did not have the same face shape as the others, probably a half breed. "Looks like the first Phoenix has finally arrived." The man lazily stood up from his seat and waltzed over to us with his hands in his pockets before speaking. "What's your name kid?"

"What's it to you?" Was Snipe's immediate response. The boy moved his hand to his waist and turned his body as if to pull out a concealed weapon; I knew he didn't have one on him, so I assumed it was a bluff.

Placing his hands up, the man took a step back with a smirk on his face. "Easy there kiddo, you're in a room with some of the most powerful fighters in all of the Griffin Empire. Picking fights with the first person you see is probably not the smartest idea." The man had a knowing smirk as he spoke to Snipe. Only then did I realize all conversation in the room stopped once the competitor began speaking to Snipe. "I'm Hyperion by the way." He said sticking his hand out. 

Jostling Snipes shoulder, I gestured for him to shake it. I knew Snipe was cautions but this just seemed excessive. He took Hyperions hand and shook it lightly before immediately withdrawing from his hand. "Snipe."

"Did you teach him to be this cautious?" The purple haired man asked me. 

I chuckled before wrapping an arm around my student. "I've been His teacher for all but a short time, I'm afraid he picked this up from somewhere else." 

"I see. It's good to jumpy at times I suppose." 

"He'll need it for next year." A deep voice idly commented from across the room.  We turned to see a large hunched over on a bench. He was clad in a large draping coat that masked the majority of his body. The only parts you could see were his scar covered arms and his mouth. It seemed the cloak was laced with magic of some kind, as it casted a shadow over the top half of his face.

"Well that wasn't sinister at all..." Snipe commented. 

"Attention!! Could all the competitors and their teachers make there way to the arena gates!!!" A Loud voice rang through the heads of everyone in the room. 

"Looks like we'll have to leave the rest of the introductions for later." Hyperion stated.

"It appears so." A female voice came from next to the man with the cloak. I turned to see someone sat next to them .They were also covered by a cloak, but they had a much smaller build in comparison. Judging by the lack of heat coming from their back, I assumed they were the bid guys teachers.

Everyone who was sat stood up and began making there way towards the large doors stood at the opposite side of the room.