A thousand years ago, Prince Grey Ghost lost his parents and in a fit of grief, placed himself into exile. Now a thousand years have passed and he has returned home. Can he adapt to a world that has all but forgotten him? This is his story.
A thousand years ago, Prince Grey Ghost lost his parents and in a fit of grief, placed himself into exile. Now a thousand years have passed and he has returned home, only to find that he has been utterly forgotten. Lost in a world that left him behind, Grey Ghost must adapt to the trials of modern life and overcome the grief that still eats at his soul.
This story is a collab between myself and Duskshadowbrony. Be sure to check out our other stories.
Time was moving at top speed all around him, a year but a blink of an eye. He watched the air around him distort in a sea of crystalline blur, the weathered cave walls seeming to flow like water. There was a steady flash of light that filled the cave for a brief moment. Sunlight. The pattern was a regular rhythm, on and off as day turned to night and back again.
Grey Ghost watched from the back of the cavern, a bowl of salad in front of him, only half eaten. Months. That was how long it had been since he had cast the spell, sealing him in a pocket of his own time, waiting for the pain to pass. Months since Luna had turned into Nightmare Moon, months since Celestia had banished her. Months after he had said goodbye to his mother before she had been replaced with that… thing.
Nightmare Moon was not his mother, Luna was.
He sighed, finishing the meal and setting the bowl aside. Why him? That was all that he asked himself lately. First his father, Lord Sombra, had been corrupted by dark magic and enslaved the crystal empire. His banishment had taken the city along with him, leaving nothing but emptiness. Now he had lost his mother and after his fight with Celestia, there was no way he could go back, not now anyway.
He cast his gaze at the entrance of the cave, moving closer to it. A single step past the shimmering way would break the spell and reintegrate him with normal time. It was currently night outside, which generally only lasted for a few fleeting seconds before shifting into day.
Gazing up towards the moon, his heart skipped a beat. The cratered surface of it was gone, replaced with a clear circle of white. The silhouette of the Nightmare was gone.
Ghost bolted to the back of the cave, quickly gathering his things. Research notes, potions, his journal, all quickly shoved into his saddlebags. “Please be safe,” he whispered, placing the bags on his back. He walked to the front of the cave, giving one last look back to his makeshift home. Taking a deep breath, he stepped through the barrier, reintegrating himself with normal time. He stumbled a bit, his body shuddering. He gagged a bit, depositing his recently eaten salad onto the forest floor. He took a few minutes, catching his breath. Casting a quick glance around, he frowned, noting that the forest had changed greatly since he had entered the cavern. Something moving caught his attention. A small gray Unicorn, slightly larger than a schoolcolt, in what looked to be Lunar Guard armor, was walking amongst the bracken. He had two swords strapped to his back. The armor had the same crest as Ghost remembered, although the style was completely different. He appeared to be distracted watching a group of parasprites fly around a small clearing.
“Hail, traveler!” he called out, moving toward him, eyeing the swords. “Thou wears the crest of the night princess, tell us, hath she returned?”Ghost asked, feeling his heart hammering away in his chest. He took in a deep breath, doing his best to steady himself.
“Who goes there?” The gray Unicorn drew his blades, pointing them into the darkness. A Flare spell lit up the area. “Identify yourself!”
“We are prince Grey Ghost, free of our self imposed exile.” he explained, shielding his eyes from the light. “Please, tell us, has the Lunar Princess returned?” He felt the tingle of magic, an identification spell, run over him.
The Unicorn’s eyes widened for a moment in surprise, then, with a blink, his eyes became a masked, indifferent gaze. “She has.” He spun both swords before sheathing them. “Nightmare Moon is no more.” he fell to his knees in a bow. “Forgive me, my Prince, for my rudeness. I accept any punishment that you will upon me.”
“Please, rise.” Ghost said, looking at him “May we inquire your name?” Ghost asked, holding out his hoof to the smaller unicorn.
The guard looked at Ghost’s hoof uncertainly, before taking it and standing up. “My name is Dust. Dust Storm.” he spoke in an official manner. “Captain of the Lunar Guard, leader of Unit Seven, Head Researcher of Combat Magic.”
“Well met, Sir Dust Storm.” He said with a nod “Please escort us to Canterlot. We no longer knew our way through this wretched forest.” He said, gesturing to the area around them.
The small Unicorn bowed his head. “As you wish.” he said. “Please follow me, Prince Ghost.” Dust turned around, starting a path through the thick forest ground.
“Tell me sir Dust, hath the Crystal Empire returned?” He asked, following his escort. It felt good to be out of the way and actually using his muscles for once. “It has been so long since we have seen home.”
“Yes, the Crystal Empire is once again in the Frozen North.” he answered. “I’ve been told a lot about you, Prince Ghost. Princess Luna speaks of you very often.”
“Have thou?” He asked, tilting his head. “Please tell us what hath heard of us.”
“Well… I know well about your father. King Sombra, was it? He returned too, with the Crystal Empire.” Dust reached the top of the slope, looking back at Ghost. “However, like before, he was banished by the power of the Crystal Ponies.”
“He was a good king once. Dark magic corrupted him.” He said with a sigh “ We are glad to hear the the empire is well.”
“Princess Luna will be happy to hear that you are well.” the smaller gray Unicorn stopped for a moment to get his bearings, before turning towards another way. “I’ll need to make a quick stop to visit a friend.”
Ghost nodded his head, following after him. He stared at his hooves, lost in thought. How would his mother react to his return. How would Celestia? They had not parted on good terms and he had long since regretted what had been said.
They reached an odd little hut in the middle of the forest. Dust raised a hoof and knocked. There was a few moments of silence, then the door opened. A Zebra stood there, a rather herb-laced smell wafting from the hut, strange bangles around her neck and legs.
“Hello, Zecora.” Dust saluted. “Do you have more potion ingredients? The storages in Canterlot are running low, our shipments got delayed.” He pulled out a list with his magic. “Of course, I’ll pay you double, as usual.”
“If it is potion ingredients you seek, then come in, have a peek.” She opened the door wide, allowing Dust to step in. She smiled at Ghost. “Who is this stranger? I hope he’s not a danger.”
Dust shook his head. “Not a threat.” Looking over at Ghost, he asked, “Are you coming in? This’ll only take a minute or two.”
“Well met dear zebra.”Ghost said with a bow before walking in ask Dust. He looked around, the hut reminding him of his old quarters in the castle.
Dust looked around the shelves, taking a few ingredients off and sliding them into his bag. “Thank you, Zecora.” he said, when he was done. He took out a money pouch and slid across a pile of small gold coins- Bits.
“Farewell, Dust, may your journey be just.” she waved them off as they left.
“We did not realize there was an alchemist in the Everfree.” Ghost said, eyeing Dust’s back a bit.
“She’s not exactly… an Alchemist. She has foreign magic abilities of all kinds.” The forest seemed to be getting thinner, small rays of sunlight poking through the forest roof. “I’m one of the few that is actually permitted to visit her solo, as I’m certified for single combat.”
“We were never one for combat. We specialize in defensive and illusion magic,”he said motioning to his cutie mark, which was of a shield draped with a cloak.
“Ah,” Dust revealed his two crossed, sparkling swords on his flank. “Defensive magic evades me, I cannot seem to learn it no matter how hard I try.”
They reached the edge of the forest, both Ponyville and Canterlot in view, Canterlot being fairly far off.
“We don’t remember this village.”Ghost said with a frown, looking at ponyville “We assume it is new?”
“Ponyville? It’s been around for a hundred years or so.” Dust answered. “Whew, finally out of there. Now we can just teleport back.”
“We thank you sir Dust Storm for your assistance.” Ghost said giving a bow before lighting his horn, teleporting to the castle.
Dust arrived soon after, teleporting next to Grey. He shook his head, holding a hoof to it. “Ugh. I hate teleportation.” he muttered. “Come on now, we’re near the throne room. I’ll inform them of your arrival.”
Ghost nodded, following after him. He took a deep breath, letting it out slowly, trying to calm his racing heart, failing utterly to do so.
As Ghost waited outside the throne room, he heard voices.
“Evening, Princess Luna, Princess Celestia.”
“What have we told you about formal treatment with us?” Celestia’s voice spoke up.
“Try again,” Luna’s voice was gentle and playful.
“Erm… Luna. Celestia. There’s somepony important here to see you two,” he turned to the door and nodded.
Ghost took another deep breath before walking into the throne room. “Mother, we hath returned,” he said, giving a small bow. He closed his eyes, awaiting their reactions, hearing his heartbeat pounding in his ears.
There was complete and utter silence as the two mares stared at the prostrated Grey. No one, save Dust, dared to move, even breathe for their own fears of losing the other if they did. Celestia was the first to advance, hesitantly stepping toward him. She reached out, lifting his chin up so he would face her, “Grey…?”
Dust bowed his head and left the room, letting the reunited family have their time together.
“Yes, dear aunt, ‘tis us, Grey Ghost.” He said with a smile, looking up into her eyes. “We would have returned sooner, alas time magic is rather imprecise.” He turned toward Luna, a smile on his face. “It is so good to see you again mother..”He choked out, tears flowing down his face.
Luna was also crying with happiness. “Silly son, we don’t talk that way anymore.” she pulled him into a hug. “Oh, how I’ve missed you.”
“Welcome back, Ghost.” Celestia said, an awkward smile on her face. Clearly, she could still remember their last encounter as well.
“We want to apologize Celestia, our last meeting ended harshly and we hath long since regretted it..” He said, lowering his head in apology.
“No, it was my mistake.” Celestia stepped up to him, bowing her own head. “I- I was too hasty in my decision. I just couldn’t afford to wait any longer, and… I took the only option that I knew. I should have looked harder. I… just couldn’t think of that… thing as my sister.”
“Nor could we think of it as our mother.” He said shaking his head. “Tis good to be home.” He said stepping forward, giving Celestia a hug.
“Hold on a moment.” Luna gave Ghost a quick hug and kiss before heading out, to catch up with Dust Storm. “Dust! Wait!”
He turned around, already at his doorway. “Luna? Is there anything you needed?” he asked, taking his magic off the knob.
“I… no, we wanted to thank you. For bringing Ghost back. You’ve helped repair the family.” she said, smiling at him. “Truly, you have our gratitude.”
He was silent for some time, before nodding and bowing his head. “I’m only doing my job, Luna. If there’s nothing else that you need me for, then I shall go back to my research.”
Luna nodded. “Thank you again, Dust Storm.” They shook hooves before each retreating to their respective destinations. *** “You’ve missed so much.” Luna said filling him in on the details of what happened when he was gone. Considering it was about a thousand years, she wasn’t able to get very far in just an hour.
“That is a lot to take in.” Ghost said, looking at Luna. He had taken most of it well, though at the mention of Cadence and Shining Armor ruling the Crystal Empire, a scowl grew across his face.
“I haven’t even told you the half of it.” she sighed, pouring them another cup of tea. Her eyes roved over to the training grounds, where Dust Storm was practicing on magical training dummies. “You know… you need a personal guard again.”
“That we… I do.” He said with a nod, trying to modernize his speech. “Sir Dust Storm was rather skilled from what little I saw.” He said, smirking at the ease of which he was adapting his speech.
“Yes, he’s one of the leading combatants in the Lunar Guard.” Luna sipped her tea. “It’s how he managed to attain the Captain rank at his young age. I think he would be more than qualified to protect you.”
“Then we... er I would like to make him captain of the Phantom Guard.” Ghost said nodding, taking a sip of his tea. “Your tea is as marvelous as ever mother.”
She laughed. “Thank you, son. And if you wish, we can speak with him about this. He’s currently under my direct command, but I’m sure he would be more than willing to serve another member of the Royal Family.”
“Then let us be off.” He said with a nod, finishing up his tea and standing up. “I wish to discuss this matter with him face to face.”
They trekked down to the training grounds, where Dust was still at it, his magic energy swirling around him as he blasted back the combat dummies. He noticed Luna and Ghost, his magic receding. Breathing hard, he straightened his posture, bowing once more.
“What did I say about formal treatment?” Luna reminded him.
“Sorry.” he looked back at them. “How can I be of service?”
“Sir Dust Storm, I wish to speak to you on an important matter.” Grey said, looking him over. “I am reforming my guard, the Phantom Guard, and I find myself in need of a captain.” Dust’s face remained emotionless as always. “You… wish me to be the Captain?” he finally asked, after an awkward pause.
“Yes I do.” Grey said with a nod. “I believe you will fill the role nicely.”
Dust looked over at Luna, who nodded. He hesitated for a moment. “Then… am I no longer your personal guard, Luna?”
“No.” she admitted. “But I trust you will protect my son. Please, will you do this?”
Dust though for a while longer, before nodding and bowing to Ghost. “Then I am at your service.”
“There is no need to bow to me,” Grey said with a smile. “Now, where will I be staying? I can’t imagine my quarters are still available.” He said, turning to look at Luna.
“You could use Dust’s room. It was a Royal Suite, but he never used it.” She looks over at him with a smile. “He prefers sleeping in his research room. When he does sleep, that is.”
“I will take it, if it is alright with Sir Dust,” Ghost said, a smile on his face.
“Of course. And it’s just… Dust.” the smaller gray pony nodded. “Is there anything you request of me, Prince Ghost?”
“Nay Sir Dust, you deserve respect.” Ghost said looking at him. “If you would be so kind as to show me to mine room, I would be most grateful.”
Dust looked a little uncomfortable. “Please, my Prince, the formal treatment is not necessary.” he adjusted his armor slightly. “My research room and bedroom are in the tallest tower of the castle. It would be faster to teleport.”
“Then I shall leave you to your training. Report to me when you are finished.” Ghost said, lighting up his horn, vanishing in a flash of green. Once inside of the tower, he wandered for a bit before walking into Dust’s room, closing his eyes.
The room looked completely unused, but was well-kept regardless. There was a large bathroom, complete with a giant bathtub, and an ornate sink. The bed was also very large, with thick drapes over the sides. A few banners bearing the Lunar Guard crest hung from the walls, and books lined the shelves of the room. There was a set of double doors leading out to a balcony overlooking the gardens. Ghost sighed as he looked around heading into the bathroom to clean himself up.
*** “Dust Storm, a moment please.” Luna called out, catching Dust just as he walked back onto the training grounds. Besides the two of them, the field was empty.
“Yes, Pr-.” He stopped, catching himself. “Yes, Luna?”
“Let us spar.” she said looking at him before summoning up her own weapon, an ebony bladed double bladed sword.
“Very well.” Dust unsheathed both his swords, casting a spell over his katanas, a training spell that made sure the blades would never actually make contact with a body.
“Do you know why I wish for you to guard my son?” Luna asked, walking around him, twirling her sword around in her magic.
“I do not.” he answered, carefully following her movements, readying one blade to defend.
She struck out, her blade colliding with his, pushing him back a step. “It’s because he needs more than just a guard, he needs a friend.”
Dust quickly deflected the blow, knowing he didn’t have the strength to lock blades for long. He slid to the side, striking with his other sword, quiet for the time being.
“I know friendship should come naturally but he will need more than me and Tia if he is to adjust to this world.” she continued, unleashing a flurry of strikes. “Nobels will try to use him, seeing how he is like a foal to this new world.”
Dust’s agility allowed him to keep up with the attacks, although his strength was slowly sapping from all the blocks. Concentration showed on his face, but he still managed to speak. “I understand. I will do my best to make sure that does not happen.” He began dodging the next series of attacks, as opposed to wasting his stamina trying to parry.
“I would also like for you too keep his father’s fate a secret, at least for now. Grey would not react well to his father’s death.” she said, spinning her blade, aiming at his horn.
Dust chose to block this attack with the flat of one of his swords, tilting it so her blade slid away. “Are you asking me to conceal the truth, Luna?” while her blade was still disbalanced, he swung the other sword, the metal glinting in the moonlight.
“In a way, I should be the one to tell him. I am afraid of what he might do if he found out some other way.” she said jumping back, steadying her blade.
“I understand.” he moved quickly forward as she moved back, taking advantage of the opportunity, using magic to boost himself into the air, twirling rapidly, causing a cloud of dust to encircle him and his spinning swords: his signature battle technique that earned him his name, the Dust Storm.
Luna split her sword in two halves, using them to parry Dust’s swords. “You are certainly improving Dust.”
The block caused Dust to lose his balance in the technique, crashing to the ground, his blades scattering across the ground. “I’m still not good enough.” he answered. stirring on the ground.
“It will come in time.” she said with a faint smirk, her swords floating at Dust’s throat. “I would say that was a match well fought.”
“Let us try this again.” He used his hoof to push one of the blades away, getting up, retrieving his swords. “I need to improve on the cyclone, make the Eye of the Storm smaller. I can’t let myself have such a large opening.”
They went back to their sparring, the clash of swords ringing through the night, the sparks lighting up the field.
***
There was a knock at Ghost’s door. “Prince Ghost? You asked me to report in when I was finished training?” It was Dust Storm.
“Please come in.”Ghost said, walking onto the balcony.
The door opened and Dust walked in, wearing patrol armor instead of the training armor from earlier, his two trademark blades at his side. “Evening, Prince Ghost.” he bowed, setting his bags down to the side.
“Please, if you wish me to simply call you Dust, then you will have to call me Ghost.” He said with a grin, lifting his head up.
Dust hesitated, then nodded. “I’ve completed my training hours, and I’ve finished my patrol schedule.” As usual, he avoided eye contact and spoke in a rather flat tone.
“Good.” Ghost said, nodding his head. “I asked you here for a simple reason Dust.” Ghost said, noting the small pony’s behavior. “My mother avoided the question so I shall ask you, what has become of King Sombra?”
Dust paused for a moment. “I was under direct instruction not to tell you.” he answered.
“I see.”He said. “Thank you Dust Storm, you are dismissed for the night, report to the training fields at dawn.”
Dust nodded. “I will see you then Pri-” he paused. “I will see you then, Ghost.” he corrected himself. It was rather obvious that he was struggling not to bow as he exited.
Ghost realized, a while after Dust had exited, that his bag was left behind. Curiosity got the better of him, as he noted a book sticking outside of it, titled A History of the Crystal Empire Vol 3. Ghost closed the door with his magic, hopping up onto the bed. Levitating the book in front of him, he began skimming.
“N-no..”He whispered softly, his voice barely audible, tears streaming down his face. He let out a cry of rage, throwing the book against the wall before breaking down into sobs. He curled up above the covers, crying long into the night before sleep eventually claimed him.
----------- “I cannot help but feel troubled, Tia,” Luna said, looking up at her sister.
“Troubled dear sister? I expected you to be ecstatic with Grey Ghost’s return.” Celestia said, sipping her tea. The two alicorns were currently in Celestia’s chambers, enjoying some tea before night court began.
“I just…” she sighed. “I feel that he is not real anymore. Like an apparition.”
“What do you mean sister? He seemed real to me.” Celestia said, raising her eyebrow.
“I fear I shall lose him again, like his father,” she looked aside.
“Luna, I don’t think you have anything to worry about.” She said, placing a wing around her sister. “Ghost loves you.” She said giving her a smile.
Luna smiled back weakly, “Sombra loved me as well, and now he is gone.”
“That wasn’t your fault Luna, you know this.” She said her gaze hardening just a bit.
“Do you think I don’t know that?” she turned.
“I apologize Luna, it’s just you still burden yourself with Nightmare Moon’s actions, I don’t want you putting Sombra’s actions on your shoulders as well.” She said nuzzling her. “Sister… you have told him about Sombra right...?”
Luna hesitated. “I… shall tell him when I feel he’s ready. As far as he knows, his father died of old age, as corrupt as he was when he left.”
“He isn’t going to react well, he didn’t when he learned Sombra and the empire vanished.”She said looking into her tea, a frown on her muzzle.
Luna choked back tears, “I can’t bear to remember any more right now.”
Celestia said no more, pulling her sister close to her, wing wrapped tightly around her. “I’ve sent letters to Twilight and Cadence requesting their presence. Twilight and the elements should be here by the morning.”
Luna held Celestia tightly, “Good. I… I must attend to my duties.”
“Good night dear sister.”She said nodding her head, releasing her hug. “I shall see you in the morning.”
Luna stood, ruffling her wings and nodding, “Goodnight, Tia.” She turned and left the bedchambers silently, the doors swinging closed with a soft click.
Grey Ghost seethed with rage as he left his temporary chambers, the Faust-forsaken book floating in his magic. He moved up to the throne room, ignoring the guards as he banged the doors open. Inside, Luna and Celestia were conversing.
“Grey? Is something the matter?” Celestia asked, looking at him with a frown.
He said nothing, throwing the book at their hooves, narrowing his eyes. There was silence for some time, the air getting tense.
“Explain, now!” he demanded, his eyes puffy and red from his tears.
“Son…” Luna started. “You weren’t supposed to find out this way… I swear to you that I would have told you myself.” she paused. “Where did you find this book?”
“It doesn’t matter! You let them kill him!” he screamed, stomping a hoof. “You could have used the Elements to save him and yet you just let him die!”
“Please, I played no part in this… I was not informed until after it happened.” Luna tried to calm him down.
“This is your fault!” he hissed turning on Celestia, purple energy starting to dance on his horn. “You just wanted him out of the way so you could claim the empire for yourself!”
“You lie!” he shouted, his horn surging with dark magic. His eyes became like Sombra’s, a purple mist coming off them. He let out a roar, firing a blast of magic at them.
A group of Royal Guards moved in, casting a barrier spell. However, their magic was not strong enough, the barrier shattering as the guards were blasted back.
“Son, please stop this!” Luna casted her own barrier spell with Celestia.
He let out a feral scream, firing another blast before there was a loud crack and Grey collapsed to the ground, Dust standing behind him, his sword floating in his magic.
“Grey!” Luna shouted, rushing over to him, her eyes wide in fear. She let out a small sigh of relief, seeing that he was still breathing. “Thank you Dust.”
He didn’t answer for a while, returning the blade to the sheathe. “I… noticed my bags were missing… I remembered the book I had inside. Once I heard a disturbance… I knew what happened.”
“It’s not your fault Dust,” she said lifting Grey up, putting him on her back. “Come we must get him to the infirmary.” she gave her son a nuzzle before moving out of the throne room.
Dust kept his eyes down as he followed Luna and Grey, staying silent as they moved through the halls.
“I suppose you're wondering why Grey lost control like that?”
“Forgive me… but… I already know… I’ve been doing some poking around during my free time.”
“Do you?” she asked frowning. “I’ll have to talk to Tia about this later. If you would not mind, Dust, please tell me what you already know.”
“King Sombra is the father of Grey Ghost. His dark magic and Shadow Pony abilities carry over onto him, and the dark magic reacts to negative emotions.” Dust started. “It then takes control, ruling him by emotion alone.”
“You are mistaken,” she said shaking her head. “Grey did not inherit those abilities nor were they Sombra’s originally.”
“My research was wrong?” Dust frowned even more. “I see…”
“You have to understand, back then, things were very different. Even two decades on from Discord’s defeat, we were still trying to fix what he broke. We were so narrowly focused that we didn’t see what was happening to Sombra.” she paused, starting to choke up. “When we finally came to reclaim the empire from Sombra, we found Grey in a hidden room, chained to a table. He was covered in scars and... was comatose for weeks afterward.”
Dust was silent again for some time. “I’m… sorry…” he managed to say.
“It’s in the past, now, Dust but thank you.” she said with a small smile, nuzzling him gently.
He flinched away from the contact at first. “This wouldn’t have happened if I wasn’t so careless… It’s my fault that he found that book.”
“Worry not Dusk, it would have happened no matter what we did... “ Luna said with a sigh, looking at Grey’s prone form.
“But we could have presented it better.” Dust said quietly as they reached the medical wing.
“Yes we could have.” she said nodding. “This does make me afraid of what he’ll do when he meets Twilight and her friends.”
“We should keep him in the castle, then.” Dust advised. “Until things cool down.” He signaled one of the medical ponies over. Luna allowed them to take Grey, watching closely.
“I want him vaccinated to the fullest extent possible,” Luna commanded, watching as they moved him onto a bed, hooking various machines to him.
“Is there anything I can do?” Dust asked, clearly still feeling guilty over the incident.
“Stay by his side, rumors are going to start circulating and the last thing we need are nobles trying to use him.”
“I understand.” Dust bowed his head down. “I’ll do my best.”
“I already told you, you don’t have to bow to me,” she said with a chuckle.
He raised his head and nodded. “I’ll protect him with my life.”
“Thank you,” she said turning to a doctor. “Please inform me when he wakes.”
Dust stood at attention next to Grey’s bed, leaving a small amount of one of his blades unsheathed, just in case, for some extra reaction time.
“Well this is strange,” one of the doctors said, a purple screen floating in front of him.
“What is it?” Dust asked, looking over at the doctor.
“You see these objects?” he asked, turning the screen, showing Grey’s internal structure. All through his nervous system were chunks of material.
“What are those?” Dust frowned as he took a closer look.
“I have no idea. Let me run a test,” he said, sending some magic into one. Grey spasmed, a bolt of dark magic firing from his horn.
Dust instantly whipped a sword out, magic surrounding the blade as he deflected the magic, sending it shooting off into a pile of pillows. “What was that for?” he asked the doctor with a hostile note.
“I was trying to cast a diagnostic spell, not do that!” he countered, frowning.
“Well, it wasn’t very diagnostic!” Dust sheathed his sword, checking on Grey for further injuries. Although he had no skill in healing spells, he did know how to run field medicine.
Grey was still twitching slightly but was otherwise fine. Underneath his coat, his veins glowed a soft purple.
“What’s going on?” Dust asked, turning back to the doctor.
“Whatever those objects are, their full of dark magic,” he replied, watching as the glow faded and Grey returned to normal. “It must have been painful beyond rational thought to have those things placed inside one’s body.”
“Is there a way to remove them?” Dust frowned. “Dark Magic… if one knows how to… can be controlled.”
“I doubt it. Their fused into his nervous system at key points. If we try to remove them, we’d damage it, that is if the surges of dark magic didn’t kill him first.”
“I know an expert on Dark Magic. Maybe he could help Grey keep it under control.” Dust seemed thoughtful. “Although he’s near impossible to get in contact with.”
“You best find him,” the doctor said, preparing to vaccinate Grey.” Or we might have to restrict his magic.”
“I was instructed to stay by Prince Ghost’s side.” Dust shook his head. “I cannot search him out right now.”
The doctor didn’t reply, giving Grey the first injection.
“This better be safe.” Dust muttered suspiciously.
“It’s a mere vaccination, nothing more,” he said, rolling his eyes.
“Right, and your mere diagnosis spell went perfectly okay.” Dust let a note of sarcasm slip into his voice.
“What are you implying?” the doctor asked, narrowing his eyes.
“If you do anything more to hurt him…” Dust glared back. “My duty is to protect his safety, and if you endanger that, you’ll be in trouble.”
“Am I interrupting?” a black pegasus asked, walking into the room, eyebrow raised. His armor marked him as a captain of the day guard. Dust’s eyes flicked over to him, before removing his hoof from his blade. “No. Nothing. What brings you here?”
“Princess Celestia asked me to guard him as well,” the new pony said, looking over at the sleeping prince.
“Who are you, by the way?” Dust asked. “Forgive me, I’m not familiar with the Day Guard.”
“I am Captain Air Razor of the Day Guards Dawn unit.,” he began, turning to the doctor. “Leave us for a moment.”
The doctor grumbled as he left the room, shutting the door behind him.
“What is it? Is something wrong?” Dust asked, casting a silence spell on the room to prevent eavesdropping.
“I have been authorized to reveal myself to you,” he said, looking into Dusk’s eyes. His body was suddenly consumed by green flames. He grew in height to match Celestia. His fur hardened into a jagged carapace. His wings lost their feathers and became thin and transparent - insect wings. His tail reshaped itself into a long scorpion-like tail, tipped with a stinger. Finally, a long curved horn grew out of his forehead; it was thin and razor sharp, like a sword.
“A Changeling?” Dust blinked. “I know we have a few in the Stealth and Espionage Ops, but you don’t seem to be with us.”
“I’m part of Celestia’s Dawn unit. We handle all of the strange anomalies that appear from time to time.” Air Razor said. “My real name is Slash,”
“What do you need?” Dust asked, looking over at Grey.
“Like I said, I was sent to guard the prince. He is technically an anomaly.”
“I don’t appreciate you calling him that.” Dust frowned. “There was no reason to send a second guard, I could handle it on my own.”
“Celestia is just worried about her nephew,” he said rolling his eyes. He returned to his pegasus form, standing by the bed. The room went silent as the two stared at each other in contempt.
***
“I thank you all for coming on such short notice,” Celestia greeted the Elements with a smile. “I would not ask if it wasn’t important.”
“It’s no problem. What did you call us for?” Twilight asked, her friends standing by her side.
“Luna’s son, my nephew Grey Ghost, has returned.” Celestia replied, internally smirking at their reactions.
“And what the heck does that have to do with us?” Rainbow Dash was pulled from a Wonderbolts event, and wasn’t exactly happy about it.
“This is... hard to say... you... killed his father,” Celestia said, her smile vanishing rather quickly.
“Wait, you mean Sombra?” Twilight stepped forward. “King Sombra is his father?”
“Yes, King Sombra was his father,”
“Why would Luna consort with that horrid creature?” Rarity asked, making a face.
“He was not always like that,” Celestia said with a sigh, shaking her head. She lead them into the dining hall, which had been set up for lunch.
“I don’t know what to tell him.” Twilight sighed, looking down at the ground. “We… didn’t have a choice… there was no time to get the Elements.”
“He... already found out. Sadly, he did not take it very well,” Celestia admitted, sitting down at the head of the table.
“I guess being friends is out of the question?” Pinkie asked nervously.
“I hope not,” she said, gesturing for them to join her at the table. “Grey has a history of impulsiveness, though after what Sombra did to him, it’s only gotten worse.”
“What did Sombra do to his own son?” Applejack asked, frowning as the Mane 6 took their seats.
“The truth is, we don’t know. When we went to confront Sombra, we found Grey in Sombra’s lab, strapped to a table. He was comatose for weeks.”
“That’s… terrible. Who could do that to their own son?” Twilight asked nervously.
“As I said, Sombra was not always like that,” Celestia said with a sigh. “How have you been adjusting to your new status Twilight?”
“Erm… it get some taking used to…” she answered. “But… is there anything we can do to reconcile with Grey?”
“The fact that you cured Luna will help,” Celestia said, nodding. “Luna and I have decided that we wish for Grey Ghost to go with you when you return to Ponyville.”
“Um… is that really okay?” Fluttershy finally spoke up.
“Fluttershy, Grey is a 1,000 years behind like Luna was. Can you imagine what the noble’s will do when they find out?”
“If we did it with Luna, we can do it with him, too.” Twilight sounded confident. “Right, girls?”
They nodded and murmured in agreement.
“Thank you all, though Grey might... react badly to your presence at first,” Celestia said with a frown. “It would be best if you don’t mention the Crystal Empire.”
“Understood.” Twilight nodded. “Is that it?”
“I would watch out for dark magic outbursts,” Celestia said, nodding her head.
“Thanks for the advice.” Twilight and the others began eating. “We’ll do our best.”
She smiled, partaking in the meal, as well.
***
Grey Ghost groaned as he opened his eyes, trying to ignore the throbbing pain that enveloped his head and horn. “Mother...?” he asked, looking around.
“Grey? You’re awake.” he heard Dust Storm’s voice, seeing the young Unicorn by his bedside. “Are you all right? Do you need anything?”
“My head... “ Grey whimpered out, cringing a bit.
“I’ll get you some more pain medicine.” Dust said, tapping the enchanted crystal meant to contact the doctors. “Doctor, we need more painkillers for Prince Ghost.”
A few moments later, the doctor came in, giving Grey a shot of painkillers. “That should last a few hours, though he may be out of it.”
“Thank you.” Dust turned back to Grey. “Is that better?”
“Yes... thank you...”
“I’ve sent my Unit to look for somepony that might be able to help your... condition.” Dust made sure Grey was comfortable. “He’s an expert when it comes to Dark Magic and its properties.”
“I see.” Grey said, blinking a few times. He tried to focus them, looking off toward the wall.
“You okay?” Dust asked again, worried for his Prince’s safety.
“I feel.... funny...” Grey admitted.
“Well, you’re hopped up on painkillers, so try to just rest for now.” he was interrupted as a letter floated through the window, up to him. He slit the envelope open, reading it quickly. “When you’re feeling better, let me know. Don’t push yourself.”
“Whats... that?” Grey asked looking at him.
“My contact has agreed to meet with you, but in his room only.” Dust answered. “He won’t have it anywhere else.”
“Lets go... “ Grey said, moving to get out of bed.
“Hey, no, you need rest.” Dust pushed him back down gently. “We’re in no hurry, here.”
“We command you to take us... “ he said, glaring at him.
Dust hesitated, then lowered his head. “As you wish, Prince Ghost. Do you need my assistance to walk?”
“No... w-we can walk,” Grey said, attempting to get out of bed, only to crash to the floor.
“Don’t be ridiculous.” Dust lifted Grey onto his back, using a Featherweight spell to lighten him. “Relax, I won’t tell anypony about this.” It was rather a strange sight, considering Dust was only slightly larger than a schoolcolt.
“Just what are you two doing?” Luna asked, standing in the doorway. “My, my Dust, I had no idea you were into Stallions!” she said, a teasing tone to her voice.
“I’m under orders… to take him to Dusk…” Dust panted, straining, even with assistance of the spell.
“Oh no, Grey needs his rest.” Luna said, lifting Grey of his back, placing him in the bed once more.
“That’s what I advised him.” Dust looked over at them.
“Stay in bed Grey,” she instructed sternly.“Make sure he stays in bed, and ignore any orders he gives about leaving this room.” Luna said, tucking Grey in.
“Understood.” he nodded, standing at attention again by Grey’s bed.
“We don’t need rest,” Grey argued trying to sit up.
“Please, I don’t want to see you hurt anymore.” Dust looked down at Grey. “Wait until you recover.”
“Fine... “Grey said, laying back in bed, sighing.
“Dust,” Luna said, looking at the smaller pony. “We have decided to send Grey to Ponyville, you and a few other guards are to accompany him.”
“Ponyville?” he looked suddenly uncomfortable. “I… all right… if that’s your orders.”
“Is something wrong?”
He hesitated. “Permission to speak freely?”
“Of course,”
“Ponyville is where.... where my family still resides…” Dust averted his eyes from contact. “I can’t guarantee that either party won’t get hurt if I encounter them again.”
“I see... if you do not wish to go,” she said, putting a hoof on his shoulder. “I won’t make you.”
He shook his head. “I have duties to fulfill. I agreed to take on those duties once I joined the Guard. I will do as ordered.”
“You are a brave one Dust,” Luna said with a smile. She leaned down, nuzzling him.
Dust blinked, instinctively pulling away at the contact, still avoiding eye contact. “Thank you for your kind words, Luna.”
“Captain Air Razor will be going with you, along with Private Snow,” Luna said, making sure Grey was comfortable.
“What about my personal unit?” Dust asked. “Are they permitted to come, too?”
“Yes, I don’t see why not. Ponyville does tend to get more trouble than the rest of the country,”
“Thank you.” he nodded, almost bowing his head again. “I swear on my life and honor that if anything happens to Grey, I will take full responsibility.”
“I doubt it will come to that but your conviction is touching,” she said smiling. “I shall let you two rest, I must begin Night Court.” she gave Grey a nuzzle before taking her leave.
“Just rest, Grey. I’ll keep you safe.” Dust stood back at attention by the side of the bed.
Grey was already asleep again, curled up in the bed.
Dust couldn’t help but give a faint smile as he waited the night out by Grey’s side.
Grey Ghost came back to the world of the waking with a slight throbbing in his horn. He shook it off, sitting up. “Mother? Aunt?” he asked, looking around.
“I can get them if you want.” Dust was still by his side, looking exhausted, but still at attention. “Is there anything else you need? Are you feeling alright?”
“I feel better,” he said, shaking his head one last time. “Please send for my mother,” he stopped to think. “And go get some rest.”
“I can get your mother, but I’m still under orders to protect you.” Dust answered, taking a scroll, writing a quick note before sending it off with magic. “Not until I can guarantee your safety.”
“Please go get her then,” he said with a frown.
“Understood. Please stay here.” he exited the room, closing the door behind him and locking it.
Grey Ghost laid back down, sighing a bit. He curled up, still rather disturbed about his father’s death.
A few minutes later, the doors swung open, and Luna entered with Dust. “I’ve brought your mother.” he said.
“Good to hear that you’re feeling better.” Luna said softly.
“I-I’m sorry... I lost control... “he responded, looking down, tears welling up in his eyes.
“It’s all right.” Luna hugged him tightly. “Nopony got hurt.” she took a seat on his bed. “Did you wish to talk with me about something?”
“I shall give you two some privacy.” Dust lowered his head slightly before backing out of the room, closing the doors again.
“I’m scared... “ he admitted, hugging her tightly. “Father is dead and... I’m becoming a monster...”
“No, you’re not. You’ll learn to control it. I know you’re strong enough.” she kept him close to her body.
“And what if I don’t?” he whimpered. “I don’t want to be a monster... “
“You won’t be. We’re going to be here for you, the entire time.” He didn’t say anything, just hugging her tighter. After a few moments, his hungry stomach broke the silence. He blushed, looking down at it.
“Let’s get you some food.” she trotted outside, opening the door. “Dust Storm, do you mind getting something for Grey to eat?”
“Of course.” he answered, setting off down the corridor.
Luna returned to Grey’s side. “Your faithful Guard will return with your meal soon enough.” she said playfully.
“I thought he was my guard now?” he asked, smiling back at her.
“He is.” Luna answered. “He’s already sworn to protect you, no matter what the cost.”
“He is very dedicated,” Grey commented, leaning on her. “I missed you.”
“I missed you very much, too.” she nuzzled him, both of them staying quiet, until Dust returned with a cart full of food.
“I’m not sure what you guys wanted, so I got this from the kitchens.” he wheeled the cart up to them. “I will take my leave, I shall be outside the doors if you need me.”
“Thank you Dust,” Grey said with a smile, turning to the cart. He started to eat, grinning like a mad pony. “Actual food!”
“Good to see you have your appetite back.” Luna smiled as Dust exited, closing the doors.
“I’ve been eating rations for the past few months,” he said, grinning at her. “My compliments to the chef.”
“I’ll be sure to forward your regards to him.” she nodded. “Are you feeling well enough to walk? When you’re done eating, I’d like if Dust Storm could take you to his contact.”
“Of course,” he said taking another bite before pausing. “I’m not going to inherit the empire am I?”
“Well… currently Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armor control the Crystal Empire.”
“I see... “ he said, letting out a sigh.
“I’m sorry. I wish we could do more. But politics don’t work like that.” Luna gently stroked his mane. “I know, and I doubt they’d want the son of their tyrant leading them.”
“Give it time. You’ll show that you can be a proper leader.”
“Thank you,” he said nodding, giving her a nuzzle.
Luna kept him close to her side while he ate, wrapping her wing around him.
He finished up, placing his utensils on the cart. “I believe I have somepony to meet.” he said, getting off the bed.
“Are you sure you’re well enough for it?” Luna asked with concern, getting ready to catch him if he fell.
“I’m fine mother, I am not a foal,” he said, giving her an annoyed look.
“I’m sorry, I just don’t want you overexerting yourself.” she turned to the door, opening it at a distance with magic. “Come on, Dust Storm, he’s ready to see Dusk now.”
Dust trotted in, nodding at Ghost. “If you’ll follow me, Grey, I can lead you to him.”I
“I shall see you later mother,” Grey said with a smile, following after Dust. ”Who exactly are we meeting?”
“His name is Dusk Shadow. He knows more about Dark Magic than anypony I know. It is his special talent, after all.” they stopped at a winding flight of stairs that went up as far as the eye could see. “He’s in the tallest tower of the castle, and enchantments prevent teleportation anywhere near it, so I hope you’re in the mood for a lot of walking.”
“Well we best get walking then yes?” he asked, frowning at the staircase.
“To be honest, you’re probably going to do better than me. I rely on magic for just about everything.” Dust started up the stairs with Grey, both of them having to take a break halfway. “Thing is…” Dust panted. “The teleportation nullification doesn’t work on him.”’
“Of course it doesn’t. Why would it?” he asked, frowning. “Starswirl used to do annoying things like that all the time.”
Dust got to his hooves, regaining his breath. “Come on, we’re almost there.”
It took them some more time, and a lot of heavy breathing, but they finally reached the top, where there was a flat stone wall.
“Really?” Grey asked, glaring at the wall. He walked up to it, knocking on it as hard as he could.
A repulsion spell nearly blasted him down the stairs, if Dust hadn’t caught him in his magic. “There’s a pass phrase you need to get in. In addition, it only accepts a select number of ponies who speak it.” Dust cleared his throat, speaking in the Ancient language. A blue light emitted in the shape of an arch, before a wooden doorway materialised. “I’m one of the few that it’ll accept.”
“I dislike him already,” Grey said, his frown deepening. “Lets just get this done,”
Dust knocked on the door, a few moments later, it opening, just a crack. Grey looked around, before looking down. An eye, below even Dust’s level, was looking up at the two ponies. “Is this him?” the voice was quiet and small.
“Yeah, this is Grey Ghost.” Dust nodded. “He could use your help with what we discussed.”
There was a tense silence for a while, before the door opened, revealing a quite small black pony with deep blue eyes, his mane gray and dark gray stripes, with a lock of neon blue in them. He wore a heavy cloak that covered his hooves, with a horn sticking out from under the hood.
Grey looked him over, scowling even more. “Let’s get this over with,” he snorted, moving closer to the cryptic pony.
He took a step back, regarding Grey warily, body tensed up. Light fell into his dark room, filled with papers, books, scribblings, and various magic items scattered around.
“And… this has gotten really awkward.” Dust muttered, rubbing his neck with a hoof.
“Are we going to begin or not?” Grey asked, giving Dusk a glare.
The pony took another step back, a flicker of fear in his eyes, not answering for a while. “Y-yes…” he stammered. “I… I can teach you what you need to know.”
“Are you alright?” Grey asked, dropping his glare. “I apologize for my outburst, it won’t happen again.”
“It’s… nothing.” he kept his eyes averted. “Anyhow… the issue with your Dark Magic is that currently, it’s piggybacking on your emotions. It’s natural for Dark Magic to do that, but there are ways to separate it some more. There’s also ways to take advantage of your Dark Magic, use it to your advantage.”
“Such as?” Grey asked, sitting down. “I am ready to learn.”
“The thing with Dark Magic is that it’s actually a very powerful form of magic. However, because of those who fear that they can’t control it, as well as fear of those who wield it, it’s given a bad name. It’s impossible to fully control but with proper practice and concentration, you can manipulate it some more. Observe.” he went to an area of his room, which looked like a training field. The area was in a magic barrier box that prevented any other parts of the room from being damaged. He walked in, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath, blue-black energy channeling around his horn. Dusk’s eyes opened, shaping the mana into the shape of a hawk, sending it at the targets, causing a massive explosion that filled the entire box. He emerged, coughing. “The trick is… because Dark Magic can manipulate you off your negative emotions, you have to think of something positive when channeling it. It’ll help it keep the magic from controlling you. Think of anything that makes you feel peaceful. The more powerful your magic, the stronger your memory will have to be. Be sure to concentrate. If you lose concentration, or have a negative feeling as you channel the spell, you’ll lose control of the magic.”
“Thats a lot to keep in mind,” Grey said with a frown. “I suppose I best try it.” he walked toward the box, stepping inside.
“Hey, be careful, now.” Dust stepped forward.
“Relax. I’ve got it under control if something goes wrong.” The black-coated pony stepped into the box, behind Grey. “Go on. Focus on a memory that makes you feel at peace. An imaginary place works, too, but memories are the strongest. The Dark Magic will whisper deceptions to you, twisted with your fears. You have to ignore it. Focus on your positive memory.”
He closed his eyes, taking a breath. He chose a memory, focusing on it. His horn lit up with a purple glow, black energy starting to crackle along it.
Dusk watched him carefully, readying a nullification spell just in case.
He opened his eyes, purple smoke emitting from them. He let off the spell, encasing the targets in black crystal.
“Are you all right? Are you still in control?” Dusk asked.
Grey didn’t answer, staring at the crystal, breathing softly.
“Grey Ghost?” Dusk asked again, getting ready to move.
Grey Ghost snarled, letting out a pulse of magic, shattering the crystals, the shards flying in every direction.
Dusk moved quickly, ignoring the crystals cutting into him, the nullification spell on his hoof as he leapt up, tapping Grey’s horn, matching his magic wavelengths, causing the magic to dispel.
Grey shook his head, groaning a bit. “I lost control, didn’t I?”
Dusk nodded, tears now in his cloak, metal bands inset with jewels now visible on his hooves. “It’s all right. I didn’t expect you to do it on the first try. Your memory must not have been powerful enough, you need to think of a stronger one, or cast a weaker spell.” he seemed rather nonchalant about his lacerations, idly wrapping a bandage around the worst one, ignoring the rest.
“Are you alright?” Grey asked, looking at him with concern.”You should get those looked at,”
“They’re minor injuries, nothing to worry about. I’ve received worse. I was given a task, and I am not one to abandon a duty that was given to me.” he bit off the wrapping, tying it around the cut. “Anyhow… like I said. The failure either came from the memory not becoming strong enough, or lack of proper concentration. Your spell seemed fairly powerful, I suggest starting at a lower level one.”
“I do not know many offensive spells, my talent is defensive spells.” Grey said, motioning to his flank.
Dusk thought for a while. “Hmm. How about this? When you fight, either offensively or defensively, you fight to protect someone, or something, right? Focus on what you want to protect most. Have an image of it in your head.”
“I can do that,” he said with a nod, closing his eyes again.
Dusk readied the nullification spell again, straightening his cloak.
Once again he let his Dark Magic flow, deep in concentration. He put a shield around himself, composed of those same black crystals.
“Are you still in control?” Dusk asked a second time.
“Yes... “ Grey spoke, his voice soft and distant.
“Good. Now it is a good thing to focus on your memories and positive feelings, but if you do that too much, likewise, it will also cause problems, severely weakening your spell. You need to balance out your magic and emotion. Let’s see if you’ve done that.” Dusk readied an offensive spell, magic energy surrounding his body as he charged at Grey, ramming into the shield.
The shield shuddered, groaning but ultimately held under the strain.
“Good.” Dusk nodded, letting his magic fall away. “You’re a very fast learner, Grey Ghost.”
“Thank you,” Grey said, allowing his magic to return to normal, the shield crumbling to dust.
They continued practicing for another hour, until Dusk called it off. “Good work.” Dusk panted. “You’ve made a lot of progress for one day. We shouldn’t push any further for today, it’s not going to be good for you.”
“As you say,” Grey said with a bow, looking rather exhausted from their training.
“Please, there’s no need to bow. Just call me Dusk.” the small pony said, leaping lightly out of the box. His cloak flowed, and for a moment, Grey saw a tattered wing on one side of Dusk Shadow, before the cloak covered it up once more.
Grey frowned but decided not to comment on it. “I believe it it time for lunch, is it not?” he asked, turning to Dust.
“Yeah, just about.” Dust agreed. He turned to Dusk. “No point in asking if you’re coming, right?”
“I’ll be fine right here.” he answered, taking a seat at his desk. “Go on, both of you.”
Dust nodded, leading Grey out of the room. “Not bad at all, for just one day of training.”
“Lets get down there before it becomes time for dinner.” Grey said, creating a platform in the center of the tower. He stepped onto it, waiting for Dust.
Dust stepped on the platform with Grey. “Dusk? Could you lift the transport spell nullifiers for a moment?”
“Yeah.” he answered, his horn lighting up. “Ten seconds. Go.”
Grey rolled his eyes, teleporting them down to the bottom. “He reminds me too much of Starswirl.”
“He just likes to take extra precautions.” Dust answered. “It’s difficult for him to know who to trust or not.” “Exactly like Starswirl,” Grey said, walking out of the tower. “You’ll have to take the lead from here.”
“All right, then.” Dust made sure Grey was following before heading to the private dining area. “By the way… since Luna wants you to go to Ponyville, along with a few guards. I was thinking my personal unit should stay here, they’ve always preferred Canterlot, and their skills will be put to better use here.”
“Ponyville did seem like a nice town. Besides I don’t think I could handle any nobles at the moment.” Grey admitted, following him.
“I’m glad you’re interested in there. I would hate to have to bring you to somewhere you wouldn’t want to go.” they stopped at an area marked Royal Private Kitchen. “Here. Normally, a pony like me wouldn’t be permitted in, but Luna’s given me special permission. Of course, you being a Prince, you have automatic access.”
“Good to know, thank you,” he said with a nod, looking around the room. “To be honest, I’m rather homesick.”
“You know, we can still visit the Crystal Empire if you want.” Dust entered the room after Grey. There was a medium table set up, with two Griffon chefs awaiting orders, bowing once they entered.
“What would you like to eat today, sirs?” one asked politely.
Grey stared for a few seconds before snapping himself out of it. “Forgive me, back in my day we were not on good terms with the griffon empire.”
He cleared his throat, clearly offended, but trying to hide it. “I see, Prince Ghost. Is there anything you’re picky about eating? We know a large number of cuisines.”
“Do you have anything from the Crystal Empire?” he asked, frowning a bit. “Please forgive my previous reaction, I did not mean to offend.” he bowed his head slightly.
“Yes, we can make you a Crystal Berry fruit salad, if that suits your palate. And it is all right, we are treated much worse by the nobles.”
“I would love that, thank you,” he said with a genuine smile.
“And you, sir?” he asked Dust, giving Grey a respectful bow.
“Just oatmeal. Not looking for anything too fancy.” Dust answered.
The chefs nodded and began preparing the meal, Dust waiting for Grey to take a seat before doing the same.
“I cannot believe I did that,” Grey said with a sigh, placing his head in his hooves.
“Hey, relax. You’ll get used to this timeline.” Dust reassured him, setting his swords to lean on the table.
“Are Griffons a common sight here in Equestria?” he asked, turning to look at him. “I would hate to cause offence to any more I come across.”
“Not common outside of Canterlot Castle, no.” Dust answered. “But we do have Griffon visitors every now and then. We’re on good terms with the Griffon Empire as of now.”
“That is good, to know. I will make sure not to make that mistake again.”
Before long, their food was prepared and set down in front of them. “If there’s anything else you need, just ask us.” the Griffon bowed his head. “Seeing others enjoy our food makes us the happiest.”
“Thank you,” Grey said with a bow before taking a bit of his meal. He froze, a smile spreading across his face. “I must say, this is some of the best I have ever had.”
“We’re honored you like it. My brother and I strive to do the best we can for anypony.”
“Excellent, as always.” Dust agreed. “Thank you for your great cooking.”
Grey nodded, starting to eat, barely hearing another pony enter the room.
Dust noticed immediately, whipping around, grabbing a sword.
Standing there was a white unicorn stallion with a blonde mane, a scowl on his face as he looked at Dust.
“Prince Blueblood.” Dust narrowed his eyes, doing his best to hide the contempt in his tone, giving a reluctant bow, rather stiffly.
“Prince Blueblood?” Grey Ghost tilting his head, interest piqued.
“Prince Blueblood, this is Prince Grey Ghost.” Dust spoke in an overly calm manner.
“I was not aware there was another prince.” Grey said, looking over at the new arrival.
Dust didn’t answer, allowing Blueblood to push past him.
“That was extremely rude of you,”Grey pointed out with a frown.
“It’s all right.” Dust didn’t want a conflict, as Blueblood gave both of them a rather contemptuous look.
“So you’re the returned Prince I heard about.” Blueblood had a venomous tone.
“I am,” Grey said nodding, glaring at him.
“Don’t think you can just strut in here and take my place as the best Prince in the castle.” he turned his nose up at Grey.
“I’m sorry?” Grey asked, looking rather confused.
“You think you’re going to come in here like some kind of hero? You show off, appearing out of nowhere, thinking you can get all the attention that belongs to me? You have a lot of nerve.”
Dust mouthed ‘give it up’ at Grey from behind Blueblood, shaking his head.
“I’m afraid I don’t understand,” he said, tilting his head. “What does that have anything to do with being a prince?”
“I’m a better Prince than you. Don’t you dare think otherwise.” he gave a rude look to the Griffon chefs. “Hmph. Featherbrains in the castle. Is nothing sacred anymore?”
“Excuse me?” Grey asked, getting rather indignant now. “One does not speak of their servants as such.”
“Exactly. They’re servants. Here to serve, nothing more. Just like Guards like him.” Blueblood turned his attention to Dust again. “Don’t you understand that we’re better than them? We don’t need to treat them with respect at all.”
Grey glared at him getting in his face. “We live to serve our subjects. We remain in power because they let us,” he said hissed, narrowing his eyes. “You sicken me, Blueblood. Gentlecolts, I thank you for the meal, it was the best I’ve had for a long time. I bid thee farewell.” he said with a bow before leaving.
Dust moved to follow Grey, Blueblood snorting in contempt, pushing past both of them, and trotting at a smart pace off down the hall.
“He is lucky I have an ounce of self control, otherwise I would have put him through the ceiling,” Grey snorted, clearly upset over the meeting.
“Actually, he pretty much jumped Dusk the first time they crossed paths. Dusk blasted him through a solid wall. Can’t believe I was on a mission outside of Canterlot, I missed it all.” Dust tried to lighten the situation.
“I would have paid a lot to see that,” Grey said smiling slightly.
“I usually do my best to avoid him, but he goes out of his way to push his contempt onto others.” Dust shook his head.
“I dislike him immensely.” Grey grumbled, looking around. “where are we headed now?”
“Well, I’m your personal guard, so wherever you want to go.” Dust answered. He stumbled a little, still not having slept.
“I want you to get some rest.” he said looking at him, a stern look on his face.
“But what if you’re attacked or endangered when I’m asleep?”
“I will be with Celestia, no harm will come to me.” he assured his companion with a smile.
Dust hesitated, but then nodded. “Thank you, Grey.” he departed for his room, teleporting away.
“And now I’m lost... “ Grey said with a frown, face hoofing. He moved over to a servant, clearing his throat. “Would you mind taking me to the throne room?”
“Of course, my Prince.” the servant, a beige Earth Pony male answered. “Please, follow me.”
Grey Ghost nodded, following after him. He looked around, taking in both the layout of the castle and the architecture.
“Over here.” the servant spoke up after some time, at a set of giant double doors.
“Thank you for your assistance.” Grey said with a bow before moving up to the doors. He pushed them open, peering inside.
Luna was the only one there, watching the kingdom from the balcony.
“Good afternoon mother,” Grey said with a smile, moving over to her. “I was expecting to find Celestia here.” “She’s gone on a political trip to another empire. She’ll be back later tonight, it’s only a lunch to improve our relations. How are you doing, son?”
“A lot better than I was in that cave,” he said with a smile. “Though I met that detestable Blueblood.”
“Oh, I was hoping you could avoid a run-in with him. He’s a bit difficult to control, he won’t even listen to Celestia.”
“He sickens me.” Grey said, spitting off the balcony, a frown replacing his smile.
“Easy, we have ponies walking below.” Luna giggled. “If you’re going to do that, wait for Blueblood to be underneath.”
Grey couldn’t help but chuckle at that. He let out a sigh, looking up at her. “How did you deal with it?”
“Deal with what?” she asked, frowning a little.
“All of this.” he said, gesturing around them. “How did you deal with being forgotten?” he asked, his voice dropping to a whisper.
“Well… it wasn’t easy at first. But the Elements of Harmony helped me. They helped me find friends.” Luna sighed. “They were the ones who rescued me from the Nightmare Miasma, too. I owe them all so much.”
“I wish to meet them,” he said looking up at her. “I want to thank them for bringing you back.”
“You can see them when you reach Ponyville. Twilight Sparkle has her castle there.” Luna ruffled his mane. “We plan to send you there tomorrow, and to continue your training, Dusk Shadow will visit you every other day.”
“I’m not sure about him, he reminds me way too much of Starswirl. It’s rather creepy.” he said with a shudder.
“If you’re uncomfortable with it, you don’t have to continue.” she assured him. “But... I think you and him have a lot in common. You should look up the history of the Obsidian Empire when you have the time. It’s in the Class-X restricted section of the library.”
“I will do that,” he said with a nod, watching the ponies moving about in the city below.
“You should probably get some rest directly after dinner, we plan to send you out early in the morning.”
“Why so early?” he asked, tilting his head.
“Well, I figured that there was a lot you wanted to do, so I wanted to give you a head start on things.”
“I can not argue with that,” he said with a nod, leaning on her.
She laid a wing over him, watching the kingdom in silence with him.
